Economy Brews 'Boutique Beer'

by candice.tsuei | August 17, 2009 at 02:04 pm

35 views | 0 Recommendations | 0 comments

What are boutique beers?

Boutique beers are the new cocktail as more money-conscious Americans choose cheaper high quality draft beers made by small local breweries over wine and spirits amid the country's recession, experts say.

Currently, there are 1,476 boutique breweries in the U.S and some of those produce less than 2 million barrels a year. With quality comes the high price; the beers attract drinkers who are willing to pay $6 to $8 for premium draft rather than a glass of cocktail or wine. Last year, boutique beers scored 6.3 billion in retails sales, showing a 5.9 percent growth by volume.

"Even in this economy, people want to treat themselves to really extraordinary things," said Justin Philips, co-owner of the Beer Table bar in the New York City borough of Brooklyn. "People are recognizing that there is a diverse world of beer. And it tends to be less expensive than other drinks."

According to a recent survey by the Gallup organization, around 64 percent of adult Americans drink alcohol, a steady figure comparing to previous surveys despite the economic turmoil. The survey also reveals that 42 percent of people choose beer, 31 percent choose wine, and 23 percent choose liquor.

Also there has been a trend among consumers to favor local products, which has also helped with the growth of boutique beer.

Even home brewing, which was outlawed until 1978, appears to be picking up, said Benjamin Stutz, a former chef who has launched New York's only home-brew shop with his wife.