Crack Open the Truth: Is Drinking Beer Straight from a Can a Crime Against Taste?

The Debate: Can You Really Drink Beer from the Can?

Heady Topper’s Famous Slogan: "Drink From the Can!" – But Is It Really That Simple?

Heady Topper, one of the world’s most respected craft beers, proudly proclaims "Drink From the Can!" on its sleek cans. But should you really be drinking your favorite brew straight from the can? Let’s dive into the debate.

Why Drinking from the Can Might Not Be the Best Approach

Our early ancestors didn’t need glassware to enjoy a good beer. They simply cracked open a cold one and drank away. However, with increasing sophistication and appreciation for the craft, beer enthusiasts have developed a more discerning palate. They crave the complex flavors, aromas, and mouthfeels that a well-crafted beer provides. Beer connoisseurs are no longer satisfied with just "any" experience – they want the whole package, from the inaugural pour to the final sip.

A Glass of Beer is More than Just a Drink

So, what’s lost when you skip the glassware? I sat down with Zack Mack, a Certified Cicerone and owner of Alphabet City Beer Co. in New York City, to get his expert opinion.

"I personally think that you’re not getting the full experience when you don’t pour it out," Mack said. "You’re not releasing a lot of the carbonation. You won’t get all the aromas out of the beer, especially the aromas that come from the hop or yeast."

The "Head" of the Matter

The "head" of a beer, that foamy layer on top, is a crucial part of the experience. "You don’t get the head when you drink from a can or a bottle," Mack explained. "That head is an important part of the overall experience, and it’s something that you miss out on when you don’t pour the beer into a glass."

A Tale of Two Heady Toppers

What about Heady Topper, the beer that proudly encourages drinking from the can? "I don’t understand why they have it set up that way," Mack said. "I think they want you to drink it as fast as you can. But I love that beer, so they can tell me whatever they want!"

The Verdict

So, is it possible to still enjoy Heady Topper and other beers from the can? Absolutely! However, if you want to truly experience the best of the craft, it’s worth considering pouring your beer into a glass where you can fully appreciate its complex flavors, aromas, and mouthfeels.