Lone Star

The Lone Star story can be traced back to 1884 when the original brewery was opened in San Antonio by Adolphus Busch and a group of local businessmen. A modern brewery was started up in 1904, and the actual Lone Star brand was not rolled out until 1940. Early brands were Sabinas beer and, later, Champion beer. Lone Star was based on a premium formula developed by Peter Kreil of Munich, Germany. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Lone Star enjoyed widespread popularity in Texas, competing against other local brands like Pearl, Shiner, and Jax. However, like so many other regional, and even national brands, by the 1970s Lone Star began to falter in the face of stiff competition. Olympia Brewing of Tumwater, Washington bought Lone Star in 1976. Seven years later Olympia was acquired by G. Heileman of LaCrosse, Wisconsin. Stroh's Brewing, of Detroit, Michigan, bought out Heileman in 1996, and Pabst bought Stroh's in 1999. Lone Star has been a Pabst brand ever since, and the parent company has revitalized the brand across Texas with local advertising and promotions. 

Lone Star beer, at 4.65% alcohol and 136 calories, is sold in Texas and in seven other states. It is available in bottles, can, and on draft. Brewing is done at the Miller facility in Fort Worth, Texas. The recipe uses Pacific Northwest hops, malted barley from the Central and Northern plains, and corn extract as the adjunct. It was a gold medal winner at the 2007 and 2008 Great American Beer Festival.

Lone Star Light, which uses the same ingredients ratio as the full-bodied Lone Star, has 3.85 alcohol and 111 calories. The same hop level as the original beer is used as well. 

In 2012 Pabst brought back Lone Star Bock, which had been discontinued decades ago. Lone Star Bock has 4.5% alcohol and 140 calories. 

The consumer will find that the Lone Star line is comparable in taste and body to other major American beers.

Henry Weinhard's

The Henry Weinhard's line of craft beers, a Miller subsidiary since 1999, has a rather typical history for a regional brewing company. Founded in Portland, Oregon in 1856 by German immigrant, Henry Weinhard, this company, later called Blitz-Weinhard, after an early 20th Century buyout, enjoyed wide popularity in the American Northwest, was staggered by Prohibition, bounced back in 1933, and slowly faded under intense competition from major national brands, like Budweiser, Miller, Pabst, and Schlitz. In 1982, The G. Heileman Brewing Company of Lacrosse, Wisconsin bought Blitz-Weinhard, and Heilemann was, itself, purchased by The Stroh Brewing Company of Detroit in 1996. Three years later, Stroh sold out to Pabst Brewing Company of Chicago (headquartered in Los Angeles, California as of 2011). As part of the purchase agreement, Weinhard beers, along with other brands, were turned over to Miller Brewing Company (Philip-Morris, and since 2002, SAB of England). Pabst also ceded all of their breweries to Miller, who either rebranded them as Miller facilities, or in the case of the Weinhard brewery in Portland, closed them. This Portland brewery had been open since 1862.

Today, Weinhard beers are positioned by SAB as mass-produced, above-premium, craft-style beers, much like the Leinenkugel division. In 2012, SAB began to expand availability of the line from the West and Midwest into other parts of the United States. One will find that these beers, sold in 12-oz. bottles, have a flavor and body in the craft vein, yet have characteristics mellow enough to give them a mass-market appeal.

Samuel Adams Boston Lager

Samuel Adams Boston Lager was introduced in 1985 by Jim Koch and his partners in Boston Massachusetts. They called their new brewing company The Boston Brewing Company, and this new beer quickly gained notoriety, winning the "best beer in America" award at the Great American Beer Festival that same year. By 1989 Boston Lager was enjoying production of 63,000 barrels per year. For the first two decades of its life, Boston Brewing relied almost solely on contract brewing for its production, although today this is not as important, as the company does own brewing facilities of its own. Miller Brewing was the predominant contract brewer over the years. Contract brewing with major producers probably helped ensure quality control and consistency for Samuel Adams Boston Lager, a feature that is not always associated with other craft-brewed beers.

Although Boston Brewing is noted for rolling out an incessant variety of beer brands, often on a limited or one-off basis, their Boston Lager remains the company's flagship brand. This beer, at 4.9% alcohol, is classed as a Vienna lager, being darker, maltier, and more bitter than typical American-style lagers. Also, it is not made with corn or rice adjuncts, and this fact, while causing the price of the beer to be elevated, relative to other mass-produced American lagers, has earned Samuel Adams accolades for taste and quality. The beer uses gourmet hop varieties (Hallertau Mittelfrueh and Tettnang Tettnanger), which enhance its flavor and aroma.

Today, Samuel Adams is quite common and can be found in all areas of the United States. Over 2.5 million barrels of the company's various beer brands are produced as of 2012. It is hoped that Samuel Adams Boston Lager will continue to be sold and enjoyed for many years to come.

Leinenkugel's

The Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company was founded in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin in 1867 by Jacob Leinenkugel and Joseph Miller, who was bought out in 1884. This company is a Midwestern regional favorite, and they operate two breweries, the original, in Chippewa Falls, and another in Milwaukee, which was acquired in 1995. The Milwaukee brewery, which produces only 5% of the Leinenkugel volume, was originally opened by G. Heilemann Brewing in 1986 to produce their Blatz line of beers, and it was known as the Val Blatz 10th Street Brewery. Leinenkugel's was purchased by Miller Brewing Company (Philip Morris) in 1988, yet the Leinenkugel family continues to oversee and promote the extensive brand line. Miller Brewing was sold to South African Breweries in 2002.

The Leinenkugel's brand line is very large today, and one will find lagers, ciders, stouts, India Pale Ales, Shandies, a light beer, adjunct lager (the original Leinenkugel's), wheat beers, fruit beers, and lots of others. Many of the Leinenkugel beers are today found all across the United States, thanks to the powerful and widespread Miller-Coors distribution effort, which was launched in 2008.

I have tried a few of the "Leini" brands, and have noted their high level of quality, which is a hallmark of Miller Brewing.

Blatz Beer

Blatz Beer is a regional brand sold in the Northern US from Minnesota east to Pennsylvania.
Founded in 1851 in Milwaukee by Valentine Blatz, this brewing company was a strong
national player into the 1950s, producing many brands such as Private Stock, Pilsener,
Old Heidelburg, Milwaukee Dark, Culmbacher, Continental Special, Tempo, and
English Style Ale.  Although Blatz was the first Milwaukee brewer to sell on a national
basis, competition forced the company's buy-out by Pabst Brewing Company in 1958, who
sold it as their craft-style beer.  Still a Pabst brand, Blatz is now sold as an economy beer.
Brewed with six-row barley, Blatz has 4.9% alcohol and is usually sold in 24-count cases
of 12 oz. cans.  Blatz Light has 3.5% alcohol.  For a time, Milwaukee 1851 Beer was sold
by Pabst as a companion Blatz brand, but was dropped at some point.

Schoenling Little Kings Original Cream Ale

Schoenling Little Kings Original Cream Ale was introduced in 1958 by the Schoenling Brewing Company of Cincinnati, Ohio. At one time this American Cream Ale brand, famous for its green, seven ounce bottles, was a regional favorite. However, as with many other local brands, the incursion of the heavy-hitting national beers eroded the popularity of Little Kings in the Ohio River region. In the 1990s the brand was discontinued. In 2004, however, it, and other regional brands, such as Burger Classic, were revived by the newly-formed Christian Moerlein Brewing Company, based in Cincinnati.

Little Kings, at 5.5% alcohol, is presently becoming available nationwide in 7 oz. green bottles and 12 oz. Slim King cans. This writer intends to purchase a sample at the next opportunity.

Genessee Beer

The Genesee Brewing Company was founded in Rochester, New York in 1878, when Mathius Kondolf purchased the Reisky and Spies Brewery (built in 1857), changing the name to The Genesee Brewery. After Prohibition, the brewery was reopened under new ownership (Louis A. Wehle). The brewery continues in operation, with 400 employees, and was acquired by North American Breweries (K.P.S. Capital Partners, L.P.) in 2009. Along with the original brew, the company also sells Genesee Light (3.6% abv, 1978), Genesee Bock (5.2% abv., 1951), Genesee Ice (5.5% abv, 1993), Genesee Cream Ale (5.2% abv, 1960), and a Genesee N.A. (non-alcoholic, 1991) product. Many other brands are held under the N.A.B. umbrella, and contract brewing is a large part of the Genesee business. 

Genesee Beer (4.5% alcohol) is sold in the Eastern United States. I have tried it twice (1997- 
12 oz. bottle & 2010- 12 oz. cans) and found it to be a tasty, enjoyable, stereotypical 
American-style lager. If you ever run across it, pick some up and give it a chance.

Ballantine XXX Ale

In 1840, Scottish immigrant, Peter Ballantine, moved to New Jersey and began brewing ale.
By 1895, Ballantine was one of the top five brewing companies in the United States.
Unfortunately, like many other brewing firms, Prohibition dealt the business a body blow, and
after that failed experiment in social engineering was abandoned, Ballantine was sold to Carl
and Otto Badenhausen, who brought in a Scottish brewmaster, Archibald MacKenchnie, who
help to revitalize the business. In the 1940s and 1950s Ballantine was a major New York City
sports sponsor, with Yankee announcer, Mel Allen calling every Yankee home run a "Ballantine
Blast". The consolidation trend has resulted in Ballantine becoming a Pabst product
(since 1999). It is still sold in the New York City region.

Ballantine XXX (triple export) Ale is 4.85% alcohol and has "hefty bitterness and aromatic hop
character." Apparently, Ballantine is a hybrid beer, as the brand website states it is fermented
"at higher temperatures for that 'ale' likeness, Ballantine combines a lager's best attributes with
the smoothness of an ale."

This writer has tried Ballantine a few times and found it to be an enjoyable and unusual beer. I hope to be able to try it again.

Country Club Malt Liquor

Country Club Malt Liquor, never a particularly popular product, was introduced in the early 1950s by the M.K. Goetz Brewing Company of St. Joseph, Missouri. It is currently a Pabst Brewing Company brand. This malt liquor, with its XXX (triple export) can and bottle logo, survives at the bottom rung of the beer universe, typically seen in seedy gas stations or on obscure grocery store shelf locations. While the neglected brand no longer receives any sort of television, radio, or magazine advertising attention, it does command an anti-hero, cult following in the malt liquor aficionado world. At one time Country Club was marketed to white, upper-middle class audiences, and was the first wide-spread malt liquor brand, but today it is unclear who, if anyone, it is marketed towards.  It simply sets on the shelf, waiting to be purchased by the curious consumer.  The can design has not changed in over 35 years.  Pabst Brewing Company has no website for the brand, and doesn't even list it on the company brand profile.  To sum up, it is brewed and sold.

Heileman's Special Export

Heileman's Special Export, a Pabst Brewing Company brand since 1999, was begun in 1934
when the Heileman's brewery workforce asked for an extra strong brew to be made for the
annual company picnic.  The brewmaster concocted a new recipe, and Heileman's Special
Export was born.  Sometime later, a Special Export Light was introduced, and both brands
continue to be sold in the Midwest.  While neither brand receives any sort of television or
radio advertising attention, they do have a niche following, which keeps this old favorite alive.
At one time this poem wasprinted on all cans and bottles of Special Export

"In the Olden Days along the Rhein,
The Germans could be found
Lying around on lions skins,
Drinking another round."

According to the brand website, Special Export "accentuates the smooth slow-brewed taste
of European beer.  Using all-American crops of northern barley and northwestern hops...a
specialized yeast guides our fermentation process."  The website also states that the original
Heileman's brewery, established in 1858 in Lacrosse, Wisconsin, and now known as City
Brewery, still produces Pabst products.

Special Export and Special Export Light are both sold in 12 oz. cans and bottles.  It is advised
that the beer be sampled from the can, as the green bottle may allow light to spoil the beer.

Grain Belt

Grain Belt is a regional line of beers produced and owned by the August Schell Brewing Company of New Ulm, Minnesota. That company was founded in 1860. Grain Belt is available in three varieties: Premium Grain Belt (4.6% alcohol), which is a standard, American-style lager, Grain Belt Nordeast (4.7% alcohol), which is an American amber lager, and Premium Grain Belt Light, a typical American-style light lager. Grain Belt beers are currently quite popular in the Minnesota region, but before 2002 it looked as though this beer would become extinct, like Meister Brau or Falstaff.

The Minneapolis Brewing Company was founded in 1891, when four small breweries, John Orth, Heinrich, F.D. Norenberg, and Germania combined operations. In 1893, Golden Grain Belt, with its distinctive red diamond label design, which is still retained, was introduced and quickly became a regional best seller. Canned Grain Belt was introduced in 1935. Premium Grain Belt, a lighter and smoother beer, reflecting the changing tastes of the American consumer, was rolled out in 1947 and sold in clear bottles. It quickly became the flagship brand of the company. And, it is still sold in clear bottles. In the late 1960s GBX Malt Liquor was added to the line. This is possibly still produced, but as with many malt liquors, it exists as a "phantom brand", not acknowledged by the brewer, much like Ice Man, Silver Thunder, and Coqui 900 of the Pabst family.

The "Beer Wars" of the later half of the 1900s began to deteriorate the health of Minneapolis Brewing (renamed Grain Belt Breweries in 1967), and in 1975 the company was acquired by 33-year old Irwin "Irv the Liquidator" Jacobs, who shut down operations and sold off the brands to G. Heilemann Brewing. Heilemann relegated Grain Belt to the bargain shelf and remaining Grain Belt fans melted away. In 1991 the rights to the Grain Belt brands were purchased by the new Minnesota Brewing Company, but this company was unable to survive. 2002 saw the takeover of the Grain Belt line by August Schell Brewing Co., who continues to produce it. Grain Belt has been a major success for Schell, but the original Golden Grain Belt was discontinued at some point.


This writer has had the opportunity to sample Grain Belt and found it to be a credible beer brand, which, in taste and quality, holds its own against national American-style lager brands. It is hoped that this venerable beer will continue to exist for many years to come.

Olympia Beer

In 1896, Olympia Pale Export was introduced in Washington State by Leopold F. Schmidt.
Olympia was the first beer sold with metal caps (1898) instead of corks. G. Heileman Brewing
acquired the company in 1982, and since 1999 it has been a Pabst brand, available in the West
and parts of the Mid-West. At one time, Olympia Light and Olympia Dry (one can of which this
writer has in his possession) were sold, but today only Olympia and Olympia Ice are on the
market. Oly, as Olympia is affectionately known, has 4.73% alcohol; Oly Ice has 6.0% alcohol. 

According to the Olympia website, "Pure mountain water and golden barley tan this smooth
sculpted beer like Mount Olympia itself. Crowned with a garland of fresh herbal hops, Olympia
stands shoulders above other beers." This writer suggests that the reader try an Oly, if the
opportunity presents itself, to see if the website hype matches reality. I have happy memories
of the few times I've been able to sample the beer. This beer is given no radio, television, or
print advertising attention, but one might see a point-of-sale item at a beer store.  While not a
large seller, this beer does enjoy a small, loyal following.

Piels

Piels Draft Style Premium Beer, a regional lager, available only in the North Atlantic States,
was introduced in 1883 in Brooklyn, New York, by Gottfried, Michael, and Wilhelm Piel,
who preferred the soft water available on Long Island.  Due to intensive national
competition, with which Piels Brewing was unable to compete, the firm sold out to
Associated Brewing of Detroit in 1963.  The brand is now a Pabst Brewing Company
product.  This brand receives absolutely no advertising attention, Pabst being satisfied to
allow it to exist as a tiny niche brand with a small, but loyal, following.  Piels does maintain
a website, however, which provides basic information on the beer.  Piels is sold in 12 oz.
and 16 oz. cans and in 40 oz. bottles, but it is unknown (to me) if it is available in any other
configuration at present.  Also, a Piels Light beer is also sold (from information provided by
the Pabst Brewing Company to myself).

A simple beer, with 4.65% alcohol, Piels describes itself as follows:  "Piels introduction of
Real Draft in cans was a milestone in brewing history.  Today's Draft Style still offers that
same unsurpassed tap beer flavor.  Piels is the choice for beer lovers who come back for
more."  For whatever reason, the present Piels is NOT a draft beer, unlike the product of
the 1970s, which was unpasteurized and needed "no refrigeration until ready to use."
Currently, the beer is pasteurized, and therefore, only "draft style," whatever that is
supposed to mean, and not a true draft beer.

On the two occasions that I was able to acquire the beer (1996 and 2010), I found it to
be a delicious product, and well worth a try.

Schmidt Beer

Schmidt Beer was established in 1884 in Minneapolis, Minnesota by Jacob Schmidt.  This
brand existed as an independent northern regional brand until bought out in 1955.  Today,
it remains a Pabst product and is sold only in select markets in the North.  This beer is
made with ordinary ingredients, and it has a stereotypical American-style lager taste profile.
Schmidt is sold in 12 oz. cans and bottles and in 16 oz. cans.  A noted Schmidt tradition is
the wildlife-oriented can, bottle, and packaging motif.  Schmidt is marketed towards
outdoors-men, who enjoy a solid, yet basic beer to have on a fishing or hunting excursion. 

If one is able to pick up some Schmidt, it will be a pleasant acquisition.  This writer has
always enjoyed a frothy glass of this fine beer.

Stag Beer

Stag Beer (5.2% alcohol) was introduced by the Gintz family's Western Brewing Company in
1907, as a reformulated replacement for Kaiser Beer.  The Gintz's began brewing in the St.
Louis area in 1851.  Other Western Brewing brands of the early 1900s were Buffet Extra
Bottle Beer and Pilsner Keg Beer.  The Griesedieck family, of Falstaff fame, assumed control
of Western in 1912, and introduced the premium Continental brand.  In 1978, the G.
Heileman Brewing Company acquired the Stag brand, and since 1999 it has been a Pabst
Brewing Company product. 

Although essentially unknown elsewhere, Stag is quite popular in the southern Illinois and
eastern Missouri region.  It is quite prominently displayed in most grocery stores and other
business that sell beer.  And, today, with the trend among youngsters of drinking old-line beers,
it has made a comeback of sorts.  Stag is commonly found in 6 or 12-packs of 12 oz. cans or
bottles.  It is sold at the below-premium level.

Brewed from "common ingredients with an uncommon taste" is how the brand's website
describes this basic, yet full-bodied beer.  "Steak, Taters, and Gravy.  That's Stag."

 

In 2012, a new Stag Ice (5.9%) beer was introduced.

National Bohemian Beer

National Bohemian Beer was established in 1885 by the National Brewing Company of Baltimore, Maryland.  Since 1999 it has been a  Pabst product.  Sold in the Baltimore area (it has never been a nationwide product), it is known for its winking Mr. Boh character featured on all cans and bottles.  National Bohemian (Natty Boh to the locals) has a 4.28% alcohol rating.  Another variant, National Bohemian Ice (sold as Boh Ice) has a 5.8% alcohol rating.  The most well known National Brewing product, Colt 45 malt liquor, sold nation-wide, is also today a Pabst product.  This beer is well loved in the Baltimore area, and is somewhat of a home-town legend in those parts.  It is widely available in cans, bottles, and on tap.  It is sold wherever beer is available at the value-priced level.  Bohemian-style beer, or Pilsner (today also known as Czech beer) was developed by Bohemian Germans in the 1800s with new the laagering techniques, and marketed as the "world's first golden beer."  Beer drinkers will find Natty Boh to be a pleasant, round American beer.

Colt 45 Malt Liquor

Colt 45 Malt Liquor (5.61% alcohol) was introduced by National Brewing of Baltimore in 1963.
It was the second national malt liquor (extra-strong beer) brand made in the USA, the first being
Country Club Malt Liquor.  It has been a Pabst product since 1999.  According to the Colt 45
website, this beer was named after Baltimore Colts running back Jerry Hill (number 45).  For the
last quarter decade Colt 45 has received no national television, radio, or print advertising attention.
Originally, Colt 45 was marketed as an adventurous beer, targeted towards upper-middle-class
whites.  At some point in the 1970s, the beer began to be pushed in urban, black areas, and it's
advertising reflected this trend, with Billy D. Williams touting, "Colt 45...works every time."  Since
about 2005, the brand has become something of a phenomenon among, white, urban hipsters,
and now the marketing seems to be focused on this demographic to a significant extent. 

Availability is nationwide, and Colt 45 is sold in 12 oz., 16 oz., and 24 oz. cans and in 7 oz. (New
York City), 12 oz., 22 oz., 32 oz., and 40 oz. bottles.  Besides the iconic malt liquor brand, Colt
45 lager beer, Colt 45 Double Malt (with a heavier body), and Colt 45 High Gravity Lager
(8.5% alcohol) are also sold.  These variants are regionally available.  All of these brands are tasty
and enjoyable, but I would recommend NOT drinking Colt 45 from the bottle, as the clear glass
may allow light to spoil the product.  The can is the safe bet.

In 2011, Colt 45 Blast, a flavored, high-alcohol malt liquor line, was launched.

Old Milwaukee

Old Milwaukee (4.6% alcohol) was introduced in 1955 by Joseph Schlitz Brewing Company as
the below-premium brand companion to the premium-priced Schlitz. It reached its popularity
peak in the late 1980s and early 1990s with the Swedish bikini team television ad promotions.
In the early 1990s, Old Milwaukee Light 3.9% alcohol) was added, and in the mid-1990s Old
Milwaukee Ice (5.9% alcohol) was brought on line (this OM version is sold only in cans, while
the other two may also be found in bottles). Old Milwaukee has been a Pabst brand since
1999. It is sold in 12 oz., 16 oz., and 24 oz. cans and in 12 oz., 22 oz., 32 oz., and 40 oz.
bottles. Old Milwaukee has a stereotypical beer aroma and taste, and it holds its own against
other major brands. Interestingly, Old Milwaukee beer is one of the most heavily awarded
beers made in the USA, most recently winning the gold medal in 2003 and 2004 at the Great
American Beer Festival for American-style lager. Old Milwaukee Light won gold for light
beers in 2006-2008 at the Great American Beer Festival and The World Beer Cup. Presently,
this beer line receives no television, radio, or print advertising attention, but it is a steady

seller.  As Old Milwaukee Ice is only sold regionally, I have not had the opportunity to try that
particular OM variant.  I highly recommend giving this beer line a try.

Schlitz Malt Liquor

Schlitz Malt Liquor was introduced by the Joseph Schlitz Brewing Company in 1965.  It has
been a Pabst Brewing Company brand since 1999.  Initially marketed towards upper-class
whites, today's fan base for the product tends to be urban, lower-income consumers.  Over
the years, the Schlitz Malt Liquor line has been enhanced with the addition of three other
variations.  Schlitz Malt Liquor (called OML- Original Malt Liquor) has 5.9% alcohol and is
brewed with "an impressive portfolio of six hop varieties."  In 1985 the Schlitz Red Bull Malt
Liquor (called XL- Extra Long), also with 5.9% alcohol was introduced. In response to the
1990s ice beer phenomenon, Schlitz Bull Ice (called IML- Ice Malt Liquor) was rolled out.
As the website says, "Bull Ice makes no pretense at subtlety.  Alcohol is its friend at 8.2%."
The most recent line addition, Schlitz VSL (Very Smooth Lager) High Gravity Lager, at 8.5%,
is the strongest of the group.  As the company says, "Elevated alcohol and charcoal filtration
combine to establish a beer with unprecedented smoothness, yet undeniable impact.  Don't
let your guard down while enjoying the satisfying and smooth taste of this Very Smooth Lager."

The Schlitz Malt Liquor line receives no television, radio, or print advertising attention, yet it has
maintained a loyal following.  Until the mid-1980s, however, Schlitz Malt Liquor did enjoy a
regular rotation on tv, especially during sporting events.

These beers are usually sold in 16 oz. cans, but can be found in 12 oz. and 24 oz cans and in
12 oz. (for Schlitz OML), 22 oz., 32 oz., and 40 oz. bottles.  I would recommend giving these
a try.

Schlitz

Brewed since 1849, Schlitz beer is one of the oldest beer brands in the United States; only
Pabst Blue Ribbon (1844) and Schaefer (1842) are older.  "The beer that made
Milwaukee famous," is a classic American lager, brewed with "just a kiss of the hops,"
meaning it has a mild taste with just enough bitterness to keep it from being bland.  Until the
mid-1970s, Schlitz was one of the top two beer brands in the USA, rivaling Budweiser in
sales.  However, the Joseph Schlitz Brewing Company began to falter under relentless
Anheuser-Busch advertising pressure and internal conflicts with a militant union labor force.
In 1982, Schlitz, and all of the company's other brands (Schlitz Light, Schlitz Malt Liquor,
Old Milwaukee, Old Milwaukee Light, and Erlanger special premium beer) were acquired
by the Stroh Brewing Company.  In 1999 Schlitz became a Pabst Brand.  Erlanger, Schlitz
Genuine Draft, and Schlitz Ice have been added and dropped from the Schlitz family since
1981.  Schlitz Genuine Gold is a product sold only in Canada.  Also, in 2008 Pabst Brewing
developed a new Schlitz Gusto 1960s formula, which claims to be a reinvention of the sixties
recipe.  Supposedly, Schlitz had changed their recipe sometime in the 1960s or 1970s,
making a more watered-down beer.  Pabst contacted retired Schlitz brewery workers, who
helped develop the new (old) recipe.  There is some doubt to as whether Schlitz actually
changed the formula, because Pabst was unable to locate any documents containing the old
recipe.  It seems unlikely that Schlitz would not have had a paper trail in their files that would
have been able to show when, if, or how a new formula or recipe was developed decades ago.
One wonders if the recipe change is not a myth more than a fact.  Beer drinkers, who had
largely abandoned Schlitz in the 1970s and 80s, might have perceived a difference from what
they had drunk in earlier days.  But, whatever the case, the new (2008-present) Schlitz has
4.7% alcohol and a slightly fuller body and more bitter hop profile than the regular Schlitz beer,
which has 4.6% alcohol.  This is only a relative change, because I've sampled both versions
extensively, and find the real differences to be minimal.  Possibly, the ordinary Schlitz might be
creamier than the new Gusto Schlitz.  But, both are delicious. 

Another interesting fact is that the new and old Schlitz versions are never sold concurrently in
the same market, so as the 2008 version is introduced, the pre-2008 version is taken out of that
area.  The general plan is a gradual phase-out of the pre-2008 version (which has been sold
only in cans since 2001).  The Schlitz Gusto beer is sold in 16 oz. cans (called "Tall Boys"), 12
oz. bottles, and on draft.  Whether this new formulation and "Gusto" retro promotion will make
Schlitz a popular beer again remains to be seen.  Since the beginning of 2010, when
negotiations started for the buyout of Pabst by the Metropoulos  family (finalized in June, 2010),
there seems to have been little to no promotion of Schlitz, whereas in 2008 and 2009, there was
relatively heavy promotion of the beer in print, television news stories, and on radio (in the areas
in which it was being phased in).  Schlitz beer of either recipe has received no national
advertising attention of any kind since the 1982 buyout.

I would recommend giving Schlitz a try.  You will probably find that it stands toe to toe with any
of the other major American-style lager brands.

Schaefer

Schaefer is America's oldest lager beer brand, being introduced in 1842.  In 1981, Stroh's
Brewing Company bought the brand from the original family, and since 1999, Schaefer and
Schaefer Light have been Pabst products.  Brewed with six-row varieties of malted barley,
Schaefer "accentuates its total complexity with six varieties of hops," according to the brand
website.  Schaefer, with 4.4% alcohol, is available in only select markets today, mainly the
Northeast, whereas Schaefer Light is still sold on a national basis.  This brand receives
absolutely no radio, television, or print advertising from Pabst, but it does continue to have a
niche following.  Another interesting fact is Schaefer's enduring popularity in Puerto Rico,
which developed due to the massive Puerto Rican migration into New York City (the home
of the F. and M. Schaefer Brewing Company, 1842-1981) during the 20th Century.

Schaefer is a solid, traditional, and enjoyable American beer.  Apparently, it is now only
sold in 12 oz. cans in 6, 12, 18, 24, and 30 packs.  If you are a fan of American-style lager,
you should enjoy this beer, if the opportunity presents itself.  Also, for light beer drinkers,
Schaefer Light holds its own against any other major American light beer brand.

Schaefer's long-time advertising tag was, "Schaefer is the one beer to have when you're
having more that one."  In the 1990s, the 24 pack cases had the blurb, "The Weekender."
Obviously, this beer was targeted to the volume drin

Pabst Blue Ribbon

Pabst Blue Ribbon Beer, introduced in 1844 and originally called Best Select and later, Pabst
Select, was renamed Pabst Blue Ribbon after winning a blue ribbon for the best beer in show
at the Chicago World's Fair in 1893.  The can and bottle logos still proudly announce that fact,
but PBR has won many other awards over the years, most recently winning the silver medal
for American-Style Light Lager in 2007 and the Gold medal for American-Style Lager in
2006 at the Great American Beer Festival and gold for American-style Premium Lager in 2006
at the World Beer Cup. 

In the 1950s Pabst was the number one American beer brand, and peak beer production was
reached with 18 million barrels produced in 1977.  But, at this point Pabst began to stumble
due to Anheuser-Busch's ruthless and ingenious advertising competition.  By 1999, only about
900,000 barrels of Pabst were being brewed.  However, while other brewers (Falstaff,
Schaefer, Ballantine, Schlitz, etc.) were destroyed by the competition, Pabst Brewing
Company is still in operation, although in a modified form.  In 1985, Pabst was acquired by
Paul Kalmanovitz, who died in 1987.  From 1987 to 2010 the Kalmanovitz Charitable Trust
operated Pabst Brewing Company, but under pressure from the US government, which does
not allow a non-profit to own breweries, the business was sold to C.D. Metropoulos for about
$250 million.  One of the most important events in the company's history was the 1999 block-
buster deal with Miller Brewing Company.  With this agreement, Pabst acquired Stroh
Brewing Company, which had bought out Heileman Brewing in 1996.  Probably in order to
avoid US government anti-trust harassment, Pabst then signed a working agreement with Miller
Brewing, instead of making an outright merger.  Under the agreement, which was approved by
the US government, Pabst turned over the very valuable brands of Mickey's Fine Malt Liquor,
the Hamm's beer line, and the Henry Weinhard craft beer line to Miller ownership, and by the
early 2000s the Pabst breweries were either shut down or turned over to Miller ownership and
continue operations.  Therefore, today, all of the many Pabst products are brewed by Miller
and a few other small brewing companies in the USA and Canada.  This alleviated the nagging
union problems, as this relieved Pabst of having to employ an unprofitable and militant brewing
staff. 

Pabst Blue Ribbon Beer, for reason that are unclear, began to become a hipster/college icon in
the early 2000s, and its production numbers have been on the incline for ten years.  Pabst has
been careful not to undermine the "anti-hero" aspects of the beer (most hipsters are probably
unaware of Pabst's macro-brewing back story), while promoting the product all over the
independent music/art world and college campus scene.  This has proven quite successful,
and today the availability of Pabst in grocery and beer stores is close to ubiquitous. 

The taste of PBR is typical of what one would expect for an American-style lager, although the
beer is very slightly darker, richer, and full-bodied than others in its genre.  There are also Pabst
variants available: Pabst Light, Pabst Draft, and Pabst Ice, all of which I have tried and enjoyed.
Pabst Blue Ribbon beer is sold in 12 oz., 16 oz., and 24 oz. cans and in 12 oz., 22 oz., 32 oz.,
and 40 oz. bottles.  Also, one can find Pabst on tap in many bars, and some grocery stores
offer Pabst Blue Ribbon or Pabst Light in kegs or half-kegs. 

At one time Pabst received heavy television, radio, and print advertising attention, but this
ended in the early 1980s.  Today, however, Pabst print advertising (even billboards) are
becoming more and more common.  It will be interesting to see what direction this brand takes
in the future.

Hurricane Malt Liquor

The Hurricane line of malt liquors is becoming a prominent segment in the Anheuser-Busch

portfolio.  Hurricane Malt Liquor, "is full-bodied and robust, and offers a smooth slightly
fruity and slightly sweet taste," and was introduced in 1995 as A-B's second malt liquor
offering.  Responding to the ice beer phenomenon of the 1990s, Anheuser-Busch rolled out
Hurricane Ice in 1996.  This variant has "extra smoothness and body," and is brewed with
barley malt and grains (like Hurricane), but undergoes an ice-brewing process, resulting in a
higher alcohol content (7.5% as opposed to 6%).  In 2005 the company introduced
Hurricane High Gravity, which has become the leader in this family in alcohol content
(8.1%) and sales.  Hurricane HG is more often seen in stores than the other two brands,
and it is "brewed with quality hops and extra barley malt to produce its full-bodied flavor."
None of these malt liquors (this name is used in the USA to comply with government trade
regulations that do not allow the sale of strong beer), known as "extra-strong beer (ESB)" in
Britain, are given television or radio advertising attention, but one may find point-of-sale
advertising for the Hurricane line in liquor stores from time to time.  These beers are available
in 12 oz., 16 oz., and 24 oz. cans and in 22 oz., 32 oz., and 40 oz. bottles. 

I have tried both Hurricane and Hurricane HG, and I find both to be delicious malt liquor
beers.  The alcohol level in the HG version is especially noticeable. 

NOTE:  It is recommended that these products be drunk from the can instead of the bottle,
as the clear glass may allow light to spoil the drink.
Quotes were taken from the Anheuser-Busch website.

King Cobra Premium Malt Liquor

King Cobra Premium Malt Liquor was introduced by Anheuser-Busch in 1984.  This extra-strong
beer, called "malt liquor" in the USA to comply with US government trade regulations, replaced
Budweiser Malt Liquor, which had been launched in 1972.  It is not known whether King Cobra
was a new recipe or simply a name change.  Whatever the case, King Cobra has been a steady
seller during its 26-year existence.  Initially, this beer received strong television, radio, and print
advertising support, but this ended in the late 1980s.  However, one may find point-of-sale ads in
liquor stores or other beer outlets.  The brand's original tag line was, "Don't let the smooth taste
fool you," meaning that the beer has a smooth taste, but the alcohol level (6%) might overwhelm a
person engaged in volume drinking and not realizing that the mellow-tasting drink packs a strong
alcohol punch.   And, the cans and bottles still feature the "Smooth Tasting" blurb. 

According to the Anheuser-Busch website, King Cobra is made with a combination of the finest
six-row barley malts and corn.  They say that a warmer fermentation process results in a fruity
aroma, sweet finish, and a bold, full-flavored profile.  I believe this to be the case, because King
Cobra does have a full-bodied, yet pleasant taste, without the harshness one finds in some malt
liquors.  And, yes, there is an underlying, but not overwhelming, sweetness to the drink. The hop
profile is minimal, as is typical for a malt liquor.  One can rest assured that with King Cobra one is
getting a product backed by Anheuser-Busch's fanatical and celebrated quality and consistency
controls.

King Cobra is available in cans (usually 16 oz.) and bottles (usually 40 oz.).  I would strongly
recommend avoiding sampling this brand from the bottle, as the clear glass may allow light to spoil
the beer.  The canned version is the safe bet. 

Overall, King Cobra is a delicious, high-quality malt liquor and stands as one of the strongest brands
in that sub-genre.  Give it a try.  I think you'll like it.

Rolling Rock

Rolling Rock beer is a premium extra pale lager and was introduced by the Latrobe Brewing
Company of Latrobe, Pennsylvania in 1939.  It was acquired by Anheuser-Busch in 2006.
Upon acquisition, advertising for Rolling Rock was scaled back, and this product has
assumed a much lower profile than when it was independently owned.  This has led to
curiosity as to what Anheuser-Busch/InBev's ultimate intentions are for the beer.  Rock Light
was introduced in 2008, and a Rolling Rock Red lager was sold for a short while but never
caught on and was dropped.  Rolling Rock is usually sold in 12 oz. bottles in 6 or 12 count
packages.  The "33" appearing on the bottle is a mystery, many thinking it celebrates the year
1933, when Prohibition was repealed. 

A light body characterizes Rolling Rock, and it is brewed in the ordinary manner for an
American-style lager (barley malt, water, rice, corn, hops, and yeast).  But, it does have
both corn and rice in the mix, whereas most beers have one or the other ingredient in their
recipe.  For those beer drinkers who enjoy a very mild beer, with a decent alcohol level
(4.6%), this might be the one to have.  The Anheuser-Busch website recommends that Rolling
Rock be served "in a tall, thin tumbler and pair it with citrus-grilled chicken, ceviche with lime,
pork tenderloin with mango chutney and pepper jack cheese."

Natural Ice

Natural Light beer was introduced in 1977, and was Anheuser-Busch's first low-calorie beer
offering.  It was heavily promoted on television and radio and in print, but upon the debut of
Budweiser Light (later called Bud Light) in 1982, Natural Light advertising essentially ceased,
and the Natural Light brand was repositioned from the premium to the sub-premium pricing
category.  So, it is viewed as a "cheap" beer, although, that was not originally the case.
Interestingly, it is consistently one of the top-ten-selling beers in America.  In 1995, in
response to demand during the 1990s ice-beer craze, Anheuser-Busch rolled out Natural Ice,
which quickly assumed a national availability profile.  It is also positioned at the sub-premium
level, and considered a "cheap" beer, although it is brewed according the the exceptionally high
A-B production standards.  Both of these brands can be found wherever beer is sold, and
Natural Light is often available in kegs.  Also, both of these brands tend to be used as "party
beers" by young drinkers due to their low price and rather mild taste characteristics.  Either
brand is sold in a wide variety of cans or brown bottles and in different count packaging. 

Natural Light has a stereo-typical light beer body and flavor and holds its own against any
other macro-brewed low-calorie beer.  Natural Ice, while having a high alcohol content (5.9%),
has taste characteristics that tend to be crisper and lighter than others in its ice beer sub-genre.
Either beer is welcome at a family barbecue or fish fry, although many would not consider it a
brand to be brought along for a dinner party.  Curious beer drinkers may be pleasantly
surprised by Natural Ice's interesting, yet delicate taste characteristics.

Busch

Busch Beer, sold as Busch Bavarian Beer until made nationally available 1979, is Anheuser-
Busch's very popular value-priced beer.  It was introduced on a regional basis in 1955.
Busch Light was introduced in 1989 and is ranked yearly in the top ten beers sold in
America.  Both Busch brands receive heavy television, radio, and print advertising attention.
Busch is sold in many different varieties of cans and bottles and in many different packages.
Availability is widespread, and you are sure to find Busch wherever beer is sold.  In 1995,
Anheuser-Busch introduced a third Busch product, Busch Ice (5.9% alcohol), but this has
never been available on a national basis, and is only sold in select regions.  I have never seen
it south of Memphis, Tenn., for instance.  Busch has a milder taste and lighter body than
Budweiser, and the alcohol level at 4.3% is also lower than Bud (at 5%).  A new regional brand, Busch Signature Copper Lager, was introduced on a regional basis in late 2013. This excellent
brew is also guaranteed to have the outstanding consistency and quality one is assured of
with an Anheuser-Busch product.  Busch fits in beautifully at a barbecue, fish fry, or other
casual get-together.  I recommend giving this a try!

Michelob

Michelob has been Anheuser-Busch's super-premium beer since the brand's introduction in
1896.  Until 1961, when it became available in unusual, hour-glass shaped bottles with a
paper shroud at the head, Michelob was only available on tap as a "draft beer for
connoisseurs."  The canned version hit the market in 1967.  In 2009, Michelob abandoned
(and had done this once before earlier in the decade) the unusual bottle design.  The current
bottle is a more standard long-neck, but it does have unique glass formations.  Alcohol
content is 5% (as it has always been) and the international bitterness unit rating is light to
moderate at 18.  Also, in 2009 Michelob was taken away from its super-premium
designation, and brought into more of a craft beer status, the new recipe being all-malt
with no corn or rice adjuncts.  Today, the Michelob Brewing Company (a division of
Anheuser-Busch/InBev) offers an array of craft beers:  Original Michelob, Michelob Light,
Michelob Porter, Michelob Pale Ale, Michelob Shock Top (citrus wheat ale), Michelob
Ginger Wheat, Michelob Dunkel Weisse, Michelob Irish Red, Michelob Honey Lager,
Michelob Amber Bock, Michelob Honey Wheat, Michelob Marzen, Michelob Bavarian-
Style Wheat, Michelob Rye P.A., Michelob Stone Mill Organic Pale Ale, Michelob Hop
Hound, Michelob Beach Bum, Michelob Jack's Pumpkin Spice Ale, Michelob Winter
Cask Ale, and others that are not included in the Michelob craft family, but are either
promoted within the Anheuser-Busch main operation or are within the low-carb Michelob
Ultra family, these being Michelob Golden Draft, Michelob Golden Draft Light, Michelob
Ultra, Michelob Ultra Amber, Michelob Ultra Lime Cactus, and Michelob Ultra
Pomegranate Raspberry. As you can see, the Michelob line offers an incredible array of
styles and sub-brands.

Michelob is usually seen in 12 oz. bottles in 6 or 12 packs.  But, you will see Michelob,
Michelob Light, Michelob Golden Draft, or Michelob Golden Draft Light in cans from time to
time.  By the way, the Michelob Golden Draft/Golden Draft Light sub-line is only sold in the
Midwest, mainly Minnesota, where "Goldy Light" is wildly popular. 

Michelob Original Lager has a rich, full-bodied flavor, and one will appreciate the dedication
and care that Anheuser-Busch has given to this brand for over 100 years.  It is a delight to
drink, and I'd strongly recommend that you partake in a Michelob sampling adventure.

NOTE:  As of 2013, only the Michelob, Michelob Light, Michelob AmberBock Michelob Brewing Company portfolio.

Bud Ice

Bud Ice was introduced in 1994, following the explosive reception of Miller's Icehouse the
previous year.  During this 1990s ice beer fad, pretty much every major beer brand was
given its ice beer counterpart (Schlitz Ice, Schlitz Bull Ice, Old Milwaukee Ice, Milwaukee's
Best Ice, Busch Ice, Coors Arctic Ice, Genesee Ice, Keystone Ice, etc.).  Michelob was
never given the ice treatment, however.  The ice brewing process results in a higher-alcohol
beer with a crisper finish.  Bud Ice, with 5.5% alcohol, has a relatively lower content than
other ice beers, which are usually set at 5.9%.  Bud Ice Light (4.1% alcohol) was offered
alongside Bud Ice for those preferring a lighter-bodied beer, however, it was discontinued
in 2010.

Bud Ice is usually sold in 12 oz. bottles and cans in 6, 12, 16, 18, 24, and 30 packs.  One can 
also find singles of Bud Ice in 18 oz. brown bottles, clear glass being the usual bottle for the 
brand.  Interestingly, before the acquisition of Anheuser-Busch by InBev of Belgium, Bud 
Ice/Bud Ice Light was always sold in distinctive ice-cut styled bottles.  InBev must have 
determined this to be cost-prohibitive, because they now sell Bud Ice and Michelob (also 
formerly sold in distinctive bottles) in ordinary bottles, although the 18 oz. brown Bud Ice 
bottle has it's own unusual (bubble-top?) shape.

Bud Ice has a semi-sweet, full-bodied, crisp flavor, and the elevated alcohol level is
detectable in the back end of the sip.  It is recommended that this beer be consumed poured
from the 18 oz. brown bottle or from cans, as the clear glass may allow light to spoil the drink.
Bud Ice is a good choice for those appreciating an ice beer, but considering its price range
(premium), one might want to sample Anheuser-Busch's Natural Ice, which is priced at the
sub-premium level, but has a similar taste profile, higher alcohol (5.9%), and is sold in cans
and only brown bottles.

Consumers can rest assured that Bud Ice will (especially in the can/brown bottle) always
conform to Anheuser-Busch's exceptionally high quality standards.

Bud Dry (1989-2010)

Bud Dry, introduced by Anheuser-Busch in 1989, was the first dry-brewed beer made in
America.  It had a lighter body and a less-sweet taste.  Bud Dry was double-cold filtered
and was considered a "hybrid beer" by the company, being a cross between a light beer
and a full-bodied regular beer, however, it still had the alcohol content (5%) one would
expect in a regular beer.  The calorie level was only 130, falling between Bud Light (110)
and Budweiser (145).  Even with its unique taste and unusual style, coupled with a massive
ad campaign in the late 1980s and early 1990s, Bud Dry never caught the public's fancy.
Some other brewers, anticipating a large dry beer demand, even brought out their own dry
beers (Olympia Dry and Michelob Dry, as examples).  For the last eighteen or so years,
Bud Dry received absolutely no advertising attention, and its availability (usually in 12
packs of 12 oz. cans) was spotty.  I found Bud Dry to be a very good, albeit unusual,
beer.  It was obviously produced according to Anheuser-Busch's fanatical quality control
standards, but in later years was positioned in the value-priced pricing segment (usually
about $7.00 per 12-pack).  In July, 2010 I received e-mail confirmation from the brewery
that the beer had been quietly discontinued.  So, along with Bud Lite Ice, Red Wolf,
Anheuser World Select, and Michelob Malt, it goes down in history as one of the few
failed Anheuser-Busch beer offerings.  We bid farewell to this 21-year-old product.  It
will not be missed by many.

Budweiser

The King of Beer, Budweiser, has been produced since 1876 and still uses the same recipe:
water, barley, rice, hops, and yeast.  It is kraeusened (double-fermented) and beechwood
aged (for natural carbonation).  Budweiser is subjected to Anheuser-Busch's (Inbev's)
fanatical quality control regimen and one can rest assured that any Budweiser beer found
anywhere in the world will have the exact same taste and body.  It will be identical in every
way to every other Bud, whether canned, bottled, or on tap.  Budweiser, at 5% alcohol, has
a delicate malt-hop balance and a mild sweetness.  A crisp, clean finish is assured.  Obviously,
this medium-bodied, snappy presentation is well-received because Budweiser has been the
world's most popular beer brand for over fifty years. 

Budweiser can be found in just about any can, bottle, or tap configuration and packaging
count imaginable.  And, it is available anywhere beer is sold.  Budweiser Light (now called
Bud Light) was introduced in 1982, and is currently more popular that Budweiser in North
America.  Bud and Bud Light control a majority of the beer market share in America.  Most
beer consumed daily is Budweiser/Bud Light.  One can not help but respect and admire this
outstanding product.  Sadly, Budweiser is no longer American-owned as Anheuser-Busch
Brewing Company was bought by InBev of Belgium in 2008.

Budweiser is a excellent choice to bring to any gathering or dinner party.

Keystone

Coors introduced the Keystone line in 1989 in order to compete on the sub-premium
(or value-priced) market segment.  The first two offerings, Keystone and Keystone
Light were given a strong advertising push, but in the last fifteen years, the entire
advertising effort has been devoted to the Keystone Light version, which is given
heavy television, radio, and print rotation.  Keystone Premium Beer is rarely seen in
stores, but is still sold in a very few select locations.  In 1995 Keystone Ice was
released in Coors Brewing Company's bid to compete in the ice beer sub-genre; the
ice beer craze was at its peak in the mid-1990s.  Keystone Ice, while a steady seller,
is not advertised, and is sold at a volume falling between the scant Keystone Premium
availability and the ubiquitous Keystone Light presence.  Keystone Light is available at
some outlets in kegs and everywhere in cans.  Keystone Premium and Keystone Ice
are available in cans.  Keystone Ice is also not referred to as "beer," but is labeled
ALE in order to comply with state alcohol regulations affecting any product sold as
"beer."  But, considering that ale is a type of beer, one can understand the
 ridiculousness of these trade regulations. 

Although positioned at the sub-premium level, one will notice the high quality of the
Keystone line, with which Coors (Molson) refuses to compromise.  You can
confidently expect exceptional quality with any of the three versions, which should
appeal to varying taste preferences.  The light version (4.13% alcohol) is typical for
American light beer.  The Keystone Premium offering is light bodied with average
(4.43%) alcohol and a crisp, clean taste and a light, straw color.  Keystone Ice is
medium bodied with elevated (5.9%) alcohol, and should appeal to those who enjoy
a stronger, yet mild-tasting beer.  Interestingly, as with all Coors products,
Keystone is kosher.  Overall, I'd recommend Keystone for a barbecue, fish fry, or
tailgate party. 

Pittsburgh Brewing Company

The Pittsburgh Brewing Company, producer of the classic Iron City Beer, was founded in 1861 by August Hoeveler and John Miller, both German immigrants. Like many regional breweries, Iron City Beer enjoyed much success in the area, with a loyal following and decades-long sponsorship of city sports franchises. But, also like many regional breweries, they began to deteriorate in the 1960s, when they began to be supplanted by heavy-hitting nationals beer brands, such as Schlitz, Pabst, Budweiser, and Miller. By the 1980s, Pittsburgh Brewing was on life support, a common situation for the smaller beer companies at the latter part of the 20th Century. Unable to afford advertising or innovation, they floundered.

Even with their near-death experience, Iron City did institute some notable changes in the beer industry: the "snap-top can" in 1962, the twist-off bottle cap in 1963, first draft beer in cans (1960s), and the first aluminum beer bottle (2004). Today, the Iron City line (Iron City, IC Light, Iron City Amber, and IC Mango are actually brewed in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. But, with the so-called Retro Beer nostalgic movement of  recent years, Iron City has experienced somewhat of a resurgence. Although mostly a niche beer or curiosity piece, Iron City does carry on.

This writer has tried Iron City Beer once (2011), and found it to be stereotypical, yet enjoyable American-style lager.

Ronald "Jay" Theriot

Coors

Coors beer, also referred to as Coors Banquet Beer or Coors Original, was introduced by
Adolph Coors in 1874.  This Colorado favorite was not available east of the Mississippi
River until 1981 and in all 50 states until 1991, Indiana being the last state.  Also, Coors
was the first beer available in aluminum cans (1959).  Coors, has been superseded by
Coors Light (introduced in 1978) as the most popular Molson-Coors brand.  Coors beers
is made in the stereotypical manner for American-style lagers, with barley malt, water, grain
adjunct, hops, and yeast.  Coors is 5% alcohol and has 149 calories in a 12 oz. serving.  A
common practice with this brand is frequent changes in label design, which the regular beer
drinker will notice over time.  Coors is available in 12 oz., 32 oz., and 40 oz. bottles and in
10 oz., 12 oz., 16 oz., and 24 oz. cans.  It is also sold in draft form.  In 1985, Coors
introduced Coors Extra Gold, which is the company's bottled and canned draft beer, with
4.97% alcohol and a somewhat more golden color and bitter taste.  It is available in
selected markets. 

I find Coors to be a delicious beer, and it holds its own against its major competitors
(Budweiser, Miller High Life, Pabst Blue Ribbon, etc.).  I highly recommend that you
sample this beer.

A note:  Coors is kosher, as are all Coors products.

Icehouse

Icehouse was the first product of the Plank Road Brewery, a creation of Miller Brewing
Company in 1993, and structured along the lines of the Michelob Brewing Company,
existing inside of the Anheuser-Busch company.  Upon its introduction, Icehouse was
heavily promoted through television, radio, and print ads, and the new beer sparked an
ice beer fad that lasted for about five years, spawning many imitators such as Bud Ice,
Miller Lite Ice (discontinued), Schlitz Ice (discontinued), Coors Arctic Ice (discontinued),
Pabst Ice, Old Milwaukee Ice, Milwaukee's Best Ice, Busch Ice, Mickey's Ice, Schlitz
Malt Liquor Bull Ice, Natural Ice, Keystone Ice, and others.  Anheuser-Busch's Natural
Ice has become the most popular product in the ice beer segment.  Icehouse is no longer
heavily promoted on television or radio, but one will still find print and point-of-sale
promotions for the beer.  Icehouse is sold in 12 oz., 16 oz., and 24 oz. cans and in
12 oz., 18 oz., 32 oz., and 40 oz. bottles.  It comes in many different sized packaging:
6-packs, 12-packs, 24-packs, and 30-packs. 

The ice beer process involves brewing the beer to below freezing, then skimming off the
ice, which results in a high-alcohol brew with a stronger beer taste.  Icehouse has a taste
that falls in the medium range in the ice beer segment, not as light and crisp as Keystone
Ice, but not as bitter, alcoholic-tasting, and heavy as Milwaukee's Best Ice.  For those
wanting a beer that delivers a stronger-than-average alcohol punch
(at 5.5% for Icehouse) and a more distinct flavor than regular beer, Icehouse might satisfy.
In many states, due to restrictions against beer being sold with elevated alcohol content,
Icehouse is sold as ALE, and the new bottle I recently purchased nowhere states that the
product is a beer; ALE is printed discretely on the bottle.  The Miller-Coors website,
however, does clearly refer to Icehouse as "beer," not ale.  Icehouse has had three label
designs since 1993.  The new design, adopted in 2010, hearkens back to the original,
dignified label, featuring an illustration of the 19th Century Plank Road Brewery.  For a
while, Icehouse sported a motorcycle gang-tattoo design, which was adopted when the
brand was repositioned from its initial premium beer pricing level to a sub-premium position.
Apparently this was a failure of sorts, as it now seems like Miller is attempting to reposition
Icehouse back into the premium beer segment. 

Olde English "800"

Olde English "800" Malt Liquor was acquired by Miller Brewing Company in 1999 from Pabst
Brewing Company as part of their blockbuster deal.  Olde English was placed on the market in
1964 by the small People's Brewing Company and was originally called Olde English "600"
Malt Liquor.  It was acquired by Pabst in the early 1970s and turned over to Miller Brewing in
1999.  Olde English "800" has 5.6% alcohol, which is high for beer, but relatively low for the
malt liquor subsection.  OE 800 High Gravity, with 8% alcohol was introduced in 2001, but it
is only available in select areas around the nation.  Olde English is sold in 12 oz, 16 oz., and 24
oz. cans and in 18 oz., 22 oz., 32 oz., and 40 oz. bottles.  This is a fairly steady-selling Miller
brand, and it is pretty commonly sold around the USA.  Although Miller provides no television
advertising, one will occasionally hear radio commercials for the product.  Also, point-of-sale advertisements are not unusual.  Nicknamed "Eight Ball," Olde English has it's place in the beer
world and is respected by many, including this writer.  For a smooth, yet full-bodied beer, with
a fruity, semi-sweet presentation, go for OE 800.  This is an excellent drink for friends getting
together to watch a game or play a round of darts or pool.  A friend of mine described it as a
"working-class beer," and I thought that was an accurate understanding of what it is.

A NOTE:  It is recommended that Olde English "800" be drank poured from a can rather than
the bottle as the clear glass may allow light to spoil the drink.

Mickey's Fine Malt Liquor

Mickey's Fine Malt Liquor, acquired by Miller Brewing Company from Pabst Brewing
Company in their famous 1999 mega-deal, has a 5.6% alcohol level, which is high for
beer, but not particularly so for malt liquor (extra-strong beer).  Miller does not indicate
when Mickey's was first introduced, nor do they provide any information about what
company first made it, so this remains a mystery to me.  Mickey's Ice, with 5.8%
alcohol is also sold in some markets.  Mickey's is sold in the famous barrel-shaped 12
oz. bottle (6 packs) and in 40 oz. bottles.  It is also available in 16 oz. and 24 oz. cans. 

The drinker will notice that Mickey's has a light, fruity (almost citrus) taste and has a
more regular beer taste than a strong or harsh malt liquor flavor, and this is probably
part of it's appeal.  Mickey's is also famous for it's "fighting hornet" logo character.  I
would highly recommend giving this beer a chance.  You might just become a fan.
Mickey's is not advertised on television, but one might find point-of-sale advertisements
in liquor stores.

A NOTE:  It is recommended that Mickey's not be drunk from the bottle as the green
glass may allow light to spoil the beer.  The canned version is the safer choice.

Magnum Malt Liquor

Magnum Malt Liquor was introduced by Miller Brewing Company in 1981.  Until 1999, which the acquisition of the Mickey's brands, this was Miller's only malt liquor offering.  According to their
website, "Magnum delivers smooth, refreshing beer taste and enjoyment in a malt liquor."  Miller
provides absolutely no television or radio advertising for this product, but you might occasionally
see some point-of-sale advertising at liquor stores.  In paper literature from Miller, which I have in
my beer files, it is stated "Most larger American breweries include a malt liquor in their menu of
products.  Malt liquors are beers with a distinctive taste profile and slightly higher alcohol content.
Malt liquor shipments represent a relatively small segment of the beer industry."  That is about as
to-the-point and non-hyped a description of a product as you'll ever see.  Magnum is certainly low
on the Miller sales chart, but for over thirty years it has remained a steady-selling beer, and it does
have its followers. 

In my opinion, Magnum holds its own against other brands in the malt liquor sub-genre of
American-style adjunct lagers.  Magnum is a smoother and more easy-drinking beer than others
of its ilk, but it does have the requisite kick one expects from extra-strong beers.  The corn
ingredient does shine through in the color (golden) and taste (corny/grainy).  But, if you like a
full-bodied beer flavor, you might just enjoy this.  It should go especially well with cheese and
crackers or pizza.  It's a beer that one would expect to see at parties or at a ball-game watching
get-together.  I doubt many would bring this to a dinner party, though. 

Magnum is most commonly sold in 40 oz. "party size" bottles, but I have seen it in 22 oz. bottles,
18 oz. bottles, 16 oz. cans, and even 12 oz. cans (in 6 or 12 packs). 

A NOTE:  It is recommended that Magnum Malt Liquor be drunk poured from cans or on draft
(which you'll never see), as the clear glass bottles may allow light to spoil it.