Canadian Beer Vs. American Beer

Americans and Canadians love beer. It is the alcohol drink of choice in both countries. American and Canadian beer differ slightly in flavor, measurement standards, and production.

Misconceptions

According to Joey Redner of the St. Petersburg Times, a myth that Canadian beers are stronger in alcohol content stems from a difference in measuring alcohol. Canadians have always measured beer by volume. Until recently, Americans measured alcohol by weight, which lead to a smaller alcohol percentage on American beer labels and a perception that they were weaker.

Identification

According to the beer blog, Fermentarium, beer companies are allowed to market the alcoholic strength of their product in Canada, but not in the United States.

Features

According to an article that appeared in Beverage Business, Americans prefer beer lighter in body and lower in bitterness.

Significance

Standard lagers are the most common type of beer produced in the United States and Canada, according to the Brewer's Handbook. Canada's light lagers have more hop character

Fun Fact

In 1961, Canadian beer manufacturers started bottling beer in short, stubby bottles known appropriately as "stubbies." They later adopted the American long-neck style.

References

• Fermentarium
• St. Petersburg Times
• Lew Bryson's Site of Malt Beverage Delight

Resources

• Canadian Beer Index
• American Beer
• North American Brewers' Association