How Many Ounces in a Growler? Exploring the Different Sizes and Styles

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The first time I heard about growlers, I was confused. How many ounces in a growler? What exactly is a growler? As a beer enthusiast, I pride myself on knowing the ins and outs of different types of beer, but this term was foreign to me. After some research, I discovered that growlers are a great way to enjoy fresh, local beer in the comfort of your own home or at a party with friends. But with so many different sizes and styles, it can be overwhelming to know which one to choose. In this article, I’ll dive deep into the world of how many ounces in a growler, exploring the different sizes, styles, so you can confidently enjoy your favorite brews.

What Is a Growler? History of Growlers

A growler is a container used to transport beer, typically purchased from a brewery or taproom, and is often made of glass, stainless steel, or ceramic. It is a popular option for craft beer enthusiasts who want to enjoy fresh beer at home or on-the-go.

The history of the growler can be traced back to the late 1800s when workers would bring covered buckets of beer home from the local taverns. These buckets were made of galvanized steel and were known as “growlers” due to the rumbling sound the carbonated beer made as it sloshed around. 

The term “growler” eventually became synonymous with containers used to transport beer, and the modern-day growler was born. In the 1980s, the craft beer movement in the United States brought a renewed interest in growlers, and they have since become a popular way for beer enthusiasts to enjoy fresh, draft beer at home or on the go. 

Today, growlers are available in a variety of sizes, styles, and materials, and are sold at breweries, taprooms, and specialty shops around the world.

What Is a Growler Made of?

Growlers can be made of various materials, including:

  1. Glass: traditional growlers are often made of brown or amber glass to protect the beer from light exposure.
  2. Stainless steel: these are durable, lightweight, and easy to clean, making them a popular choice for growlers.
  3. Ceramic: these are less common, but some breweries offer ceramic growlers that can be decorated or customized.
  4. Plastic: some breweries offer plastic growlers, which are lightweight and shatterproof but may not keep beer as fresh as other materials.
  5. Stone: these are less common, but some breweries offer growlers made of granite or other types of stone.

The material of the growler can affect the taste and quality of the beer, as well as its shelf life. For example, glass and stainless steel are generally considered the best materials for keeping beer fresh and flavorful.

how many oz in a growler

Different Sizes and Styles of Growlers

Growlers come in different sizes and styles to suit different needs and preferences. Here are some of the most common types of growlers available:

  1. Traditional glass growlers: These are the most common type of growler and come in various sizes, including 32 oz, 64 oz, and 128 oz. They are typically made of amber or brown glass to protect the beer from light exposure.
  2. Stainless steel growlers: These are durable, lightweight, and easy to clean. They are available in various sizes and designs, including insulated options to keep beer cold for longer periods.
  3. Ceramic growlers: These are less common, but some breweries offer ceramic growlers that can be decorated or customized. They are often heavier than glass or stainless steel growlers but can be more aesthetically pleasing.
  4. Mini growlers: These are typically 16 oz or smaller and are ideal for single servings or tastings.
  5. Large growlers: These are typically 128 oz or larger and are great for sharing with a group.
  6. Specialty growlers: These include unique designs, shapes, and materials, such as stone, wood, or leather. They can be more expensive than traditional growlers but offer a distinctive look and feel.

Standard Growler Sizes

Standard growler sizes refer to the most common sizes of growlers available, which are typically offered by most breweries and taprooms. The three most common standard growler sizes are:

32 oz growlers

Also known as “howlers,” these are half the size of a traditional 64 oz growler and are perfect for trying a new beer or taking home a smaller portion.

64 oz growlers

These are the most common size of growler and are often referred to as “standard” growlers. They are great for sharing with a friend or taking home a larger quantity of your favorite beer.

128 oz growlers

Also known as “monster” growlers or “half-gallon” growlers, these are the largest standard growler size available. They are ideal for sharing with a large group or for storing beer for an extended period.

how many beers in a 32 oz growler

Factors Affecting Growler Size

Several factors can affect the size of a growler. Here are some of the most common factors to consider:

  1. Type of beer: The type of beer you plan to store or transport can affect the size of the growler you choose. For example, high ABV (alcohol by volume) beers may be best in smaller quantities, while lower ABV beers may be suitable for larger growlers.
  2. Serving size: The serving size you prefer can also affect the size of growler you choose. If you prefer smaller servings or want to try several different beers, a 32 oz growler or smaller may be the best option. However, if you plan to share with a group or want to store beer for an extended period, a larger growler may be more suitable.
  3. Packaging: The packaging of the beer can also affect the size of growler you choose. If the beer is only available in limited quantities or is a rare release, you may want to opt for a smaller growler to ensure you get a portion of the beer. Alternatively, if the beer is readily available and you plan to consume it over several days, a larger growler may be more convenient.
  4. Storage: The storage of the beer can also affect the size of growler you choose. If you have limited space in your refrigerator or plan to travel with the growler, a smaller size may be more practical. However, if you have ample storage space or plan to share the beer with a group, a larger size may be more suitable.

Ultimately, the size of growler you choose will depend on your personal preferences, as well as the specific circumstances in which you plan to use it. It’s always a good idea to consider all of the factors that may affect the size of growler you choose to ensure you get the most out of your beer.

How Many Oz in a Growler?

How many ounces in a growler? The answer depends on the size of the growler, with the most common sizes being 32 oz, 64 oz, and 128 oz:

  • 32 oz growlers: Also known as “howlers,” this size of growler contains 32 fluid ounces of beer or other beverages. For metric-focused individuals, this is equivalent to 0.894 liters.
  • 64 oz growlers: The most common size of growler, a 64 oz growler contains 64 fluid ounces of beer or other beverages, this is equivalent to 1.89 liters.
  • 128 oz growlers: Also known as “monster” growlers or “half-gallon” growlers, this size of growler contains 128 fluid ounces of beer or other beverages. This is equivalent to 3.79 liters or 1 gallon.

How Many Ounces in a Half Growler?

Beside knowing how many ounces in a growler, many people also want to find out how many ounces in a half growle.r A “half growler” is not a standard growler size, so the volume of a half growler can vary depending on the specific container. However, some breweries and taprooms may offer half-size growlers that hold approximately half the volume of a standard 64 oz growler. 

In this case, a half growler would contain approximately 32 fluid ounces (946 milliliters) of beer or other beverages. It’s always a good idea to check with your local brewery or taproom to see if they offer half growlers and what volume they hold.

How Many Beers in a Growler?

How many servings in a growler? The number of beer serving that can fit in a growler depends on the size of the container and the serving size of the beer. Here’s an estimate of how many beers you can get out of a growler of different sizes:

How many beers in a 32 oz growler?

This size of growler typically holds about two to three 12 oz beers or one and a half to two 16 oz beers.

How many beers in a 64 oz growler?

This size of growler typically holds about four to six 12 oz beers or two to three 16 oz beers.

how many beers in a 64 oz growler

How many beers in a 128 oz growler?

This size of growler typically holds about eight to twelve 12 oz beers or four to six 16 oz beers.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Growlers

There are both benefits and drawbacks to using growlers. Here are some of the most common advantages and disadvantages of using growlers:

Benefits of growlers

  1. Environmental benefits: By reusing a growler instead of purchasing single-use cans or bottles, you can reduce your carbon footprint and help the environment.
  2. Cost effectiveness: Growlers are often less expensive than purchasing individual bottles or cans of beer, making them a cost-effective option for enjoying craft beer.
  3. Quality of beer: Because growlers are filled directly from the tap, they offer a fresh, draft beer experience that is not always possible with pre-packaged beer.
  4. Convenience: With a growler, you can take your favorite beer home or on the go without having to visit a bar or brewery.

Drawbacks of growlers

  1. Sanitation concerns: Growlers can be difficult to clean and sanitize properly, which can lead to the growth of bacteria and off-flavors in the beer.
  2. Short shelf life: Once a growler is opened, the beer inside must be consumed within a day or two to maintain its freshness and carbonation.
  3. Availability: Not all breweries or taprooms offer growlers, and some may have restrictions on the type of beer or size of growler they will fill.
  4. Size and portability: Depending on the size of the growler, it may be difficult to transport or store, especially if you are traveling or have limited refrigerator space.

Overall, growlers can be a convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy fresh, draft beer at home or on the go. However, it’s important to keep in mind the potential drawbacks, such as sanitation concerns and limited shelf life, to ensure you get the best possible experience from your growler.

How Long Does Beer Last in a Growler?

In general, it is recommended to consume the beer within 24-48 hours of opening the growler to ensure it maintains its freshness and carbonation.

Once a growler is filled and sealed, the beer inside can last for varying amounts of time depending on several factors, including the type of beer, how it was stored, and how long it has been since the growler was filled.

How to Store a Growler?

Proper storage of a growler is important to maintain the freshness and quality of the beer inside. Here are some tips for storing a growler:

  1. Keep it cool: Store the growler in a cool, dark place, such as a refrigerator or a cooler with ice packs. This will help slow the growth of bacteria and prevent the beer from spoiling.
  2. Keep it upright: Store the growler upright to help prevent carbonation loss and to prevent beer from seeping out of the lid or cap.
  3. Keep it sealed: Keep the lid or cap tightly sealed to prevent air from entering the growler and to maintain carbonation.
  4. Consume it quickly: Once a growler is opened, it is best to consume the beer within 24-48 hours to maintain its freshness and carbonation.
  5. Avoid shaking: Try to avoid shaking or agitating the growler too much, as this can cause the beer to become foamy and lose carbonation.
  6. Clean it thoroughly: After consuming the beer, clean the growler thoroughly with hot water and a mild detergent. Rinse it well to remove all soap residue, and let it air dry completely before storing it.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your growler of beer stays fresh and flavorful for as long as possible.

how many ounces in a half growler

How to Clean a Growler?

Proper cleaning of a growler is essential to prevent the growth of bacteria and to ensure that the beer inside tastes fresh and flavorful. Here’s how to clean a growler:

  1. Rinse immediately: After you finish drinking the beer, rinse the growler thoroughly with hot water as soon as possible to remove any leftover beer or sediment.
  2. Add cleaning solution: Fill the growler with warm water and add a mild cleaning solution, such as unscented dish soap or a specialized growler cleaning solution. Do not use bleach or other harsh chemicals, as they can leave a residue or affect the flavor of the beer.
  3. Scrub the inside: Use a long-handled brush or a sponge to scrub the inside of the growler, paying special attention to the bottom and the neck of the bottle. Be sure to clean the lid or cap as well.
  4. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the growler thoroughly with hot water to remove all soap residue. Hold the growler up to the light to check for any remaining residue or discoloration.
  5. Sanitize: To further sanitize the growler, fill it with hot water and add a specialized sanitizer solution. Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes before rinsing the growler thoroughly with hot water.
  6. Air dry: Allow the growler to air dry completely before storing it. Do not use a towel or cloth to dry it, as this can leave fibers or lint behind.

Can You Ferment in a Growler?

While it is possible to use a growler for fermentation, it is not recommended. Here’s why:

  1. Risk of explosion: When fermenting, the yeast produces carbon dioxide, which can cause pressure to build up inside the growler. If the pressure becomes too great, the growler can explode, causing a dangerous situation.
  2. Limited space: Growlers are not designed for fermentation and are often too small for the volume of liquid needed for fermentation. This can result in too much yeast activity, which can cause the beer to become too fizzy or even overflow from the growler.
  3. Sanitation: It can be difficult to clean and sanitize a growler properly, which can lead to the growth of bacteria and off-flavors in the beer.

If you want to ferment your own beer, it is recommended to use a specialized fermenting vessel designed for this purpose. These vessels are designed to handle the pressure of carbon dioxide produced during fermentation and provide ample space for yeast activity.

How to Choose the Right Growler?

Choosing the right growler can make a big difference in the quality of your beer. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a growler:

  1. Material: Growlers can be made of glass, stainless steel, ceramic, or other materials. Glass is a popular choice as it is relatively inexpensive and provides a clear view of the beer inside. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean, making it a good choice for travel. Ceramic growlers are often more decorative but can be heavier and more fragile than other materials.
  2. Size: Growlers come in various sizes, ranging from 32 oz to 128 oz or more. Consider how much beer you want to transport or store and choose a size that suits your needs.
  3. Lid type: Growler lids can come in various styles, including screw-top, swing-top, and snap-top. Each lid type has its pros and cons, so consider what works best for you in terms of convenience and ease of use.
  4. Brand and design: Consider purchasing a growler from a reputable brand that is known for producing high-quality products. Some growlers may also feature unique designs or artwork that can make them a more appealing choice.
  5. Intended use: Consider how you plan to use the growler, such as for travel, storage, or consumption at home. This can help you determine the best size, material, and lid type for your needs.

By considering these factors, you can choose a growler that best suits your needs and helps you enjoy fresh, delicious beer at home or on the go.

how many servings in a growler

Where Can You Get Growler Filled?

You can get growlers filled at a variety of places, including:

  • Breweries: Many craft breweries offer growler fills on-site, allowing you to enjoy fresh, locally made beer.
  • Taprooms: Taprooms, which specialize in serving beer on tap, often offer growler fills as well. Some taprooms may even offer a rotating selection of craft beers from multiple breweries.
  • Bars and restaurants: Some bars and restaurants may offer growler fills, particularly those that specialize in craft beer.
  • Beer stores: Some specialty beer stores may offer growler fills, allowing you to purchase a variety of beers in one location.

Tips for Filling Your Growler

Filling a growler can be a bit trickier than filling a regular pint glass. Here are some tips to help you get the best possible fill:

  1. Choose the right location: Choose a location that is reputable and has a good track record for filling growlers. This will help ensure that you get a quality fill and avoid any potential issues with carbonation loss or beer spoilage.
  2. Keep the growler cold: Chill the growler before filling it to help preserve the beer’s freshness and carbonation. A cold growler will also help reduce the amount of foam that forms when the beer is poured.
  3. Ask for a clean fill: Ask the server or bartender to rinse the growler with water before filling it. This will help ensure that there is no residue or leftover beer inside the growler that could affect the taste or quality of the new beer.
  4. Fill to the top: Ask the server to fill the growler to the very top, leaving no air space. This will help preserve the beer’s freshness and carbonation.
  5. Close the lid tightly: Make sure the lid is tightened securely to help prevent any air from entering the growler and causing the beer to go flat.
  6. Transport carefully: Once the growler is filled, transport it carefully to avoid shaking or agitating the beer. Keep the growler upright and try to avoid temperature fluctuations that could affect the beer’s taste and quality.

Is it Cheaper to Buy Beer in a Growler?

In general, buying beer in a growler can be less expensive than buying the same amount of beer in bottles or cans

This is because growlers are often sold at a discount compared to individual bottles or cans, and can be refilled multiple times, which reduces packaging costs. 

Besides, purchasing beer in a growler directly from a brewery or taproom can often be cheaper than buying beer from a retail store, as you are cutting out the middleman. 

However, the price of beer can vary depending on factors such as the brewery, location, and type of beer, so it is always a good idea to compare prices before making a purchase.

Differences Between Growler and Crowler

AspectGrowlerCrowler
MaterialGlass, stainless steel, ceramicAluminum can
SizeTypically 32 oz – 128 ozTypically 32 oz
SealScrew-top, swing-top, or snap-top lidSealed with a canning machine
FreshnessBeer can start to go flat after opening and must be consumed within a day or twoSealed cans provide longer shelf life and better preservation of freshness
PortabilityBulky and can be heavy when filledLightweight and easy to transport
CostOften less expensive than canned or bottled beerTypically more expensive than a similar volume of beer in a growler
SustainabilityReusable and environmentally friendlySingle-use, but recyclable
AvailabilityMay not be available at all breweries or taproomsBecoming more widely available at breweries, taprooms, and beer stores

FAQs 

How long can I store beer in a growler? 

Generally, it is recommended to consume beer from a growler within 24-48 hours to maintain its freshness and carbonation.

How do I keep my growler from going flat? 

To keep your growler from going flat, make sure it is tightly sealed and store it in a cool place to help preserve carbonation.

Do growlers keep beer cold? 

Growlers do not have any insulation, so they do not keep beer cold for an extended period. It is best to keep the growler in a cooler or refrigerator until ready to serve.

Can you transport a growler in a car?

Yes, you can transport a growler in a car, but it is recommended to keep it upright and avoid shaking it too much to prevent carbonation loss.

Can I reuse a growler?

Yes, growlers are designed for multiple uses and can be reused many times as long as they are cleaned and sanitized properly.

Is it legal to refill a growler from another brewery?

It depends on the state and local laws. Some states may have restrictions on refilling growlers from another brewery or may require that the growler be properly labeled.

Can you carbonate beer in a growler?

While it is possible to carbonate beer in a growler, it is not recommended due to the risk of pressure buildup and the potential for the growler to explode.

Can I drink beer directly from a growler?

While it is possible to drink beer directly from a growler, it is not recommended as it can cause the beer to go flat more quickly. It is best to pour the beer into a glass to maintain its carbonation.

Can I ship a growler filled with beer?

It is generally not recommended to ship a growler filled with beer as it can be difficult to ensure the beer remains fresh and carbonated during transport.

How do you open a growler?

To open a growler, first make sure the lid is tightened securely. Then, grip the growler firmly and use a bottle opener or twist off the cap (if applicable) to remove the lid.

Conclusion

After exploring the different sizes, styles, surrounding growlers, it’s clear that the answer to how many ounces in a growler isn’t as simple as it may seem. However, I’ve personally found that investing in a quality growler is well worth it for the fresh, flavorful beer it provides. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or simply looking for a more eco-friendly way to enjoy your favorite brews, there’s a growler out there for everyone. So the next time you go to a brewery or taproom in your area, don’t hesitate to ask about their growler options and enjoy your beer in a more sustainable way.

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