Growler Care Guide

How Long Growler Beer Stays Fresh and Other Practical Tips

A growler is a short-term container, not a long-term cellar. Once beer leaves the tap it begins to lose carbonation and pick up oxygen, so the clock starts the moment the cap goes on. A well-filled, tightly sealed growler kept cold will usually hold its character for several days, but the best approach is to plan on drinking it within a day or two. Once opened, aim to finish it the same day, because the headspace left behind lets carbon dioxide escape quickly and the beer can go flat overnight.

Keep it cold from tap to fridge

Temperature swings are one of the fastest ways to dull a fresh pour. If you are picking up beer on the way home, bring an insulated bag or cooler, especially on warm Fraser Valley summer days, and get the growler into the fridge as soon as you arrive. Store it upright so the beer has minimal contact with the seal and any sediment settles at the bottom.

Choosing the right growler

• Amber glass blocks much more light than clear glass, which helps prevent the skunky aromas that light can cause in hoppy beers.
• Insulated stainless steel growlers block light completely and hold temperature well, making them a good pick for picnics and road trips.
• Swing-top and screw caps both work, but check gaskets regularly. A cracked or flattened gasket is a common reason for flat beer.

Deeper cleaning and storage between fills

Every so often, give your growler a more thorough clean with a brewery-safe, unscented cleaner or a little baking soda dissolved in warm water, then rinse several times. Avoid scented dish soaps, which can leave residue that kills head retention. Remove gaskets and wash them separately. Between uses, store the growler with the cap off, or loosely resting on top, so air can circulate and no musty smells develop.

Pouring for the best glass

Pour gently into a clean glass tilted at an angle, straightening it toward the end to build a modest head. Leave the last bit in the growler if your beer is unfiltered and you prefer a clearer glass. Curious about which styles travel best? Browse our current beer list, and ask staff in the taproom for advice on what to take home.