Golfers' Favorite Beer: What's In The Cooler?

Golf is a social sport, and for many, enjoying a drink—be it boozy or not—is an integral part of the experience. In the US, drinking on the golf course is common, with beer being a popular choice. In fact, a recent poll found that American golfers drink more on the course than their overseas counterparts. So, what beer do golfers drink? Well, it seems that light beers like Miller Lite, Michelob Ultra, and Bud Light are the most popular, due to their low price and refreshing taste. However, craft beers like Sierra Nevada Pale Ale and Bell's Two Hearted are also gaining traction. Ultimately, the best beer to drink while golfing is a matter of personal preference, and golfers are always eager to try new drinks.

Characteristics of Beer Consumed by Golfers

Golfers in Florida drink the most beer

Golf and beer have long been intertwined, with many golfers and spectators opting for a cold beer while on the course or watching a game. In the US, the warm climate and relaxed atmosphere of golf courses make it an ideal setting for socialising and drinking.

A recent study by Pickswise set out to determine which state's golfers drink the most, and the results showed that Florida golfers drink the most, averaging 4.8 drinks per 18-hole round, or a drink every 3.75 holes. This equates to almost one drink more than Texas, which came in second place in the study.

The high drinking rate among Florida golfers may be influenced by the hot weather, with one Florida golfer commenting that "you have to do something to stay cool, especially in the summer. Beer just seems like the right move." The social aspect of golf also plays a role, as the long playing times provide an opportunity for socialising and bonding over drinks.

While the study focused on overall drinking habits, it is likely that beer is the alcoholic beverage of choice for many Florida golfers, given its popularity among golfers in general. The preference for beer may also be influenced by the fact that it chills quickly and is visually appealing when served ice-cold.

So, while golfers in Florida may not be unique in combining their favourite sport with a drink, they certainly lead the way when it comes to the number of drinks consumed on the course.

Light beers are the most popular

The most popular light beers include Miller Lite, Michelob Ultra, and Bud Light. These beers are almost identical, and while they may not have the most flavour, they are a safe pick because golfers know what they are getting, and they are easy to drink.

Another reason light beers are popular among golfers is that they chill quickly and can be covered in ice barnacles, making them a visual pheromone on a warm day. In addition, light beers are less likely to weigh golfers down, which is important for maintaining a good swing.

While some golfers may prefer craft beers or IPAs, light beers are a classic choice for golfers and will likely remain the most popular due to their affordability, accessibility, and refreshing qualities.

Beer and golf are inextricably linked

Golf and beer are inextricably and universally conjoined. Beer cans and golf holes each have a diameter that comfortably accommodates a golf ball, and both are round. The research conducted in my kitchen has established for the first time in history that golf and beer were made for each other.

Golf is a hugely sociable sport, and enjoying a thirst-quencher or pick-me-up with friends is a big part of the golfing experience. A recent Pickwise poll about drinking habits on the golf course found that American golfers drink considerably more on the course than their overseas counterparts. Florida golfers tip back the most beers per round at 4.8 on average, followed by Texas at 4.6, and North Carolina, New Mexico, and Pennsylvania at 4.2.

While the type of beer consumed may vary, the act of drinking beer while golfing is a common tradition among players. The lack of overpowering taste and watery nature of iconic American beers like Coors Light, Bud Light, Miller Lite, and PBR make them an unrivaled accompaniment to golf on a warm day. They chill quickly and are visually appealing when served ice-cold.

In addition to the traditional American beers, golfers have also embraced craft beers and imports. Beers like Pacifico, Modelo, and Corona from Mexico have gained popularity on the greens. For those seeking a beer with lower alcohol volume, All Day IPAs are a good option. Ultimately, the choice of beer comes down to personal preference, and golfers tend to be creatures of habit, often sticking to their favorite beverage.

So, the next time you're teeing off, don't forget to pack your favorite brew alongside your golf clubs. Whether it's a classic American beer or a craft import, a cold beer and a round of golf are a perfect pair.

The Sportsman's Concession: a golfing cocktail

Golf is a social sport, and enjoying a drink with friends is a big part of the golfing experience. While some golfers opt for coffee, others prefer something stronger. One well-known golfing cocktail is "The Sportsman's Concession". This non-alcoholic drink is made by adding a dash of lemonade to a pint of strong ale or continental lager, and it's said that golfers can convince themselves they are consuming a performance product. It's a great way to stay hydrated and get some sugar before hitting the fairways.

The Sportsman's Concession is named after the great Arnold Palmer, and it's a delicious and refreshing combination of unsweetened iced tea and lemonade. For a little extra kick, a shot of vodka can be added. This cocktail can be enjoyed at any time during the golfing day, but it's especially good before heading out on the course to provide some hydration and a boost of energy.

While The Sportsman's Concession is a popular choice, there are also other drinks that golfers enjoy. Some golfers like to keep it simple with a beer, such as Coors Light, Bud Light, or Miller Lite. Others might opt for a canned cocktail, like a Cutwater Vodka Mule or Pink Whitney by New Amsterdam Vodka. For those who prefer a craft beer, Sierra Nevada Pale Ale or Bell's Two Hearted are good options. And of course, there's always the option to enjoy a nice cup of coffee, perhaps with a secret shot of something stronger.

Golfers in the United States tend to drink more on the course than their counterparts in other countries, with Florida taking the top spot for the most drinks per round. Whether it's a beer, a cocktail, or a coffee, enjoying a drink is all part of the social experience that makes golfing so enjoyable. So, the next time you're teeing off, why not try The Sportsman's Concession or one of the many other beverage options available? Just remember to drink in moderation and stay hydrated!

Drinking culture varies between US and UK golfers

In the UK, Northern Ireland consumes the most alcohol on the golf course, with an average of 0.4 drinks per round, followed closely by England and Scotland at a third of a pint per 18 holes. This suggests that drinking is not as prevalent in UK golf culture.

The type of alcohol consumed by golfers also varies between the US and the UK. In the US, golfers tend to favour light beers such as Coors Light, Bud Light, Miller Lite, and PBR. These beers are known for their lack of robust flavour, which makes them a refreshing choice on a warm day. On the other hand, UK golfers tend to opt for more traditional drinks such as Kummel, a caraway-flavoured liqueur popular in elite Scottish golf clubs, and Gin and Tonics, including the Pink Gin cocktail, which is made with Plymouth gin and Angostura bitters. Whisky-based drinks, such as the Whisky Mac, are also popular in UK golf clubs.

While US golfers may have a reputation for consuming more alcohol, it is worth noting that the social aspect of golfing is valued in both countries. Whether it is sharing a cold beer with friends on the course or enjoying a stiff drink in the clubhouse bar, both US and UK golfers appreciate the social and camaraderie aspects of the sport.

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