Chill Beer: Can You Buy It In The Us?

In the United States, the legal drinking age is 21. However, the laws regarding the purchase of non-alcoholic beer (defined as containing less than 0.5% alcohol by volume) are less clear and vary by state. While some states, like Oregon and West Virginia, prohibit the purchase of non-alcoholic beer by minors, others, like Ohio, allow it for those over 18. In some states, like Alabama, the rules differ depending on the county.

Temperature also affects the taste of beer. While drinking beer ice-cold may be refreshing, it can mask the beverage's nuances and diminish hop flavors and aromas. Beer is best preserved when kept cold, and room temperature can shorten its shelf life.

Where to buy chill beer in the US

If you're looking to buy chilled beer in the US, there are several options available to you. Firstly, it's important to note that the legal drinking age in the US is 21 years old, and you may be asked to provide identification when purchasing alcohol.

Beer Distributors

One option is to visit a beer distributor or liquor store, such as Total Wine & More, which has locations across the country. These stores offer a wide variety of beer brands, including imported and craft beers, and will typically have chilled options available. Other large retailers with stores across the country include Sam's Club and BevMo, which also offer a range of beer options that can be purchased chilled.

Supermarkets

Supermarkets are another convenient option for purchasing chilled beer. Giant Supermarket, with locations on the East Coast, including Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia, carries international products such as beer. Similarly, Wegmans, with stores in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Virginia, offers a range of beer options.

Specialty Stores

For a more curated selection, specialty beer and liquor stores, such as K&K Discount Liquor and Wine World Beer & Spirits, can be great options. These stores often carry unique or hard-to-find beers, and their knowledgeable staff can provide recommendations and guidance.

Online Options

If you prefer to shop online, some breweries and beer distributors offer direct shipping to customers. For example, Angkor Beer, an imported beer from Cambodia, can be purchased online and shipped directly to customers in the US. Additionally, some online retailers, such as Tropical Bottling Company, offer chilled beer options that can be delivered to your doorstep.

Drinking and Serving Beer

It is worth noting that the ideal serving temperature for beer varies depending on the style, brewing process, and tradition. While many people enjoy a frosty, ice-cold beer, serving beer at colder temperatures can mask its flavours and aromas. As a general rule, lagers are served colder than ales, stronger beers are served warmer than weaker beers, and darker beers are served warmer than lighter beers.

How to chill beer at home

There are several ways to chill beer at home, some faster than others. Here are some of the most effective methods:

The Wet Rag + Freezer Method

This method is simple and requires minimal effort. Grab a clean rag, towel, or even paper towels, and soak it in cold water. Wrap the damp cloth around the beer bottle or can once or twice, then place it in the freezer. If you can, place the beer on a tray or bag of ice. Leave it in the freezer for about 7 to 10 minutes. This should result in a beer chilled to an appropriate drinking temperature. However, do not leave the beer in the freezer for more than 20 minutes, as it may freeze.

The Ice Bucket Method

Fill a bucket, bowl, or any large container with ice and add enough water to submerge the beer completely. Leave the beer in the ice bath for about 30 minutes. This method effectively chills the beer, lowering its temperature by 16.6°C in half an hour.

The Salted Ice Bucket Method

This is a variation of the previous method and is the fastest way to chill your beer. In addition to the ice and water, add a generous amount of salt to the bucket. Stir the mixture well, then submerge your beer. The salt lowers the freezing point of the ice water, resulting in an even colder bath. You can expect a temperature drop of about 18.9°C in just 30 minutes, leaving your beer at a refreshing 1.6°C.

The Freezer Method

If you don't have ice or salt, you can simply place your beer in the freezer. This method is convenient but risky, as you must monitor the beer closely to prevent it from freezing. Place the beer at the back of the middle drawer of your freezer, which is usually the coldest part. Leave it for about 30 minutes for an impressive temperature drop of 12.7°C, resulting in a very drinkable beer at around 8°C.

The Refrigerator Method

The refrigerator is a reliable option for chilling beer, although it may not be the fastest. Place your beer at the bottom of the fridge, as it is usually the coldest section due to cold air sinking. After 30 minutes, you can expect a temperature drop of about 3.6°C, which is slightly better than leaving the beer out at room temperature.

Beer chilling tools

There are several tools and methods you can use to chill your beer. Here are some options:

Submerge in Ice Water and Salt

One of the most effective ways to quickly chill a beer is to submerge it in a bucket or large pot filled with ice water and salt. The salt lowers the freezing temperature of the ice water mixture, causing the ice to melt and lower the water's temperature, resulting in faster chilling. This method can chill your beer in about 15 minutes.

Wrap in a Damp Cloth

Another simple technique is to wrap the beer bottle or can in a damp cloth or paper towel and then place it in the freezer. As the water on the cloth evaporates, it draws heat away from the beer, resulting in faster cooling. Similar to the previous method, this approach also takes around 15 minutes.

Beer Chilling Devices

You can purchase specialised beer chilling devices, such as the SpinChill, which retails for around $30. This device attaches to the top of your beer bottle or can and, when activated, rotates the beer within the ice water without adding carbonation. The spinning motion enhances convection, increasing heat transfer and leading to faster chilling. This method can chill your beer in under 5 minutes.

DIY Power Drill Method

If you're feeling handy, you can create your own beer chilling device using a power drill. Drill a hole in the top of a thermos cap and secure a long screw through the hole using two bolts. Attach this assembly to a power drill. Submerge the beer can in a pitcher of ice water and salt, place the thermos cap on top, and activate the drill. The spinning motion, similar to the previous method, increases the rate of heat transfer and chills the beer faster. This method also takes around 5 minutes.

Compressed Air

For an extremely quick chill, you can use compressed air. Simply hold a bottle of compressed air upside down and spray the sides of the beer bottle or can for a few seconds until frost forms. Holding the can upside down ensures that the air released is extra cold, maximising the chilling effect. This method can chill your beer in about 30 seconds.

In addition to these tools and methods, investing in brewing chilling equipment, such as immersion chillers, stainless steel brew kettles, and digital brewing thermometers, can help improve the cooling process if you're brewing your own beer.

Quick chill methods

There are several ways to quickly chill beer. The fastest method involves using a SpinChill device, which can chill beer in under 5 minutes. Attach the device to the top of your beer bottle or can and submerge it in a bucket of ice water and salt. The device will rotate the beer, adding convection and increasing heat transfer, resulting in faster chilling.

If you don't have a SpinChill device, you can achieve similar results by drilling a hole in a thermos cap and securing a long screw with two bolts. Attach this to a power drill, then submerge the beer in a pitcher of ice water and salt. Place the thermos cap over the beer and activate the drill to rotate the beer quickly, achieving the same effect as the SpinChill. This method also takes about 5 minutes.

Another quick method is to wrap your beer bottle or can in a damp cloth or paper towel, then place it in the freezer. As the water evaporates from the cloth or towel, it draws heat away from the beer, resulting in faster cooling. This method takes about 15 minutes.

For an even faster solution, you can use compressed air. Hold a bottle of compressed air upside down and spray the side of the beer bottle or can for a few seconds until frost forms. This method can chill your beer in about 30 seconds.

Finally, if you have liquid nitrogen or dry ice, these can be used for rapid chilling. Liquid nitrogen can be poured over the beer, while dry ice should be placed in packets with some distance from the beer to avoid direct contact.

Maintaining cold temperature at events

When it comes to maintaining cold temperatures at events, there are several strategies that can be employed. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure optimal cold temperature maintenance:

Insulation and Shelter:

Use insulation and shelter to your advantage. Set up the event in a well-insulated venue or tent, and ensure all openings are sealed to prevent cold air from escaping. Proper insulation will limit convective and conductive heat loss. If possible, choose a venue with thick walls and good insulation, such as a warehouse or an indoor arena.

Cooling Equipment:

Invest in high-quality cooling equipment, such as industrial air conditioners, portable coolers, or dry ice. Ensure that the cooling equipment is appropriately sized for the venue and the number of attendees. Place the cooling equipment in strategic locations to ensure even distribution of cold air.

Limit External Factors:

Minimize external factors that can contribute to heat generation or warm air intrusion. This includes reducing physical activity or exercise within the venue, as these activities can increase metabolic heat production and facilitate heat loss from the body. Additionally, avoid using heat-generating equipment or appliances unless necessary.

Clothing and Attire:

Encourage attendees to wear appropriate clothing for cold temperatures. Suggest layers of clothing, including jackets, sweaters, and closed-toe shoes. The more insulated the guests are, the less cold air will be lost to the environment. It is also essential to ensure that staff and volunteers are dressed appropriately to maintain the cold temperature.

Monitor Temperature:

Continuously monitor the temperature throughout the event using thermometers or temperature sensors. This will help identify any areas where cold air might be escaping or if additional cooling is needed. Adjust the cooling equipment accordingly to maintain the desired temperature.

Timing and Scheduling:

Consider the timing and scheduling of the event. If possible, choose a time of day or year when the outside temperature is naturally colder. This will reduce the amount of cooling required and help maintain the desired temperature.

By following these instructions and being mindful of potential heat-generating factors, you can effectively maintain a cold temperature at your events, ensuring that chilled beverages remain refreshing and attendees remain comfortable.

Please note that while these measures will help maintain a cold temperature, it is also important to prioritize the comfort and safety of your guests. Ensure that the cold temperature is not a health hazard, and always provide a warm area for those who may need a break from the cold.

Frequently asked questions