How to Buy The Best Cheap Beer

Ah, cheap beer. It's what holds America together. But there are so many kinds of cheap beer. Which one should you choose? Here's a guide to different consideration when looking to buy the best cheap beer.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Let's talk about price. Many beers that are THE cheap beer to buy in other countries are imported to this country and marketed as exciting or exotic. Their price tag goes up to the point where you might as well buy a microbrew. So if you're not getting Tecate or Labatt or Heineken because you want to pretend you're drinking cheap beer in another country, don't bother. Just get cheap beer made domestically, or if you don't mind spending the dough, go for a fancier beer produced by another nation for a real taste of that country's brewing.

2. That said, you've really got to look at more than price. Flavor, for instance. Some cheap beers are ok, and some are just gross. And sometimes that is reflected in the price. A couple to stay away from: Natural Ice (Nasty Ice) and Milwaukee's Best (the Beast).

3. Many cheap beers taste alike. What else to look at? Political affiliation. Does the beer company support right-wing causes? Is the beer union-made? Is it somewhat independent, or part of a corporation with less-than-desirable ethics?

4. You may also want to consider the occasion and setting during which you are drinking and sharing the beer. Is it a football game? A hot summer's night? A cold autumn day in the park? A punk show? A birthday party? A study session? Different beers, while they taste similar, can signify different things.

5. Another thing to take into account is percent alcohol. Cheap beers range from about 3.5 percent alcohol to about 5.5 percent. This can make a difference in your drinking experience, as well as altering the taste.

6. Remember, no matter which cheap lager you decide to buy, serving the beer cold is a must.

Tips & Warnings

• Add a twist of lime, or even lime, chili and salt, to your beer for a special treat.
• Serve in a chilled glass to dress up a cheap beer.
• Spend an extra few bucks to widen the range of beers you have to choose from! If you only drink once in a while, it's probably worth it.
• Drink responsibly!
• Drink water before bed.

[jenng]

on 5/4/2009 Great article on cheap beer 5*

[gatunibi]

on 1/26/2009 cheap and best don't seem to work together, but you do have a point in your article! great job!5*