Two Hearted Ale - The Beer Thrillers

Why 19.2-Ounce Cans Are Becoming the New Craft Beer Staple

B. Kline — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 13:15:07 +0000

Why 19.2-Ounce Cans Are Becoming the New Craft Beer Staple

Craft beer cans are growing up—literally! Next time you swing by your local convenience store, you might notice an impressive lineup of tall cans, typically packed with hoppy IPAs and clocking in at 19.2 ounces. But what’s behind this size choice, and why are more breweries turning to it? Let’s dig into the trend, what it means for craft beer lovers, and why it’s popping up everywhere.

New Trail Broken Heels and Double Broken Heels 19.2 oz Cans

The Magic of Convenience

One word explains the rise of the 19.2-ounce can: convenience. Firestone Walker Brewing, for instance, rolled out its Double Hopnosis IPA in this size to deliver, as they put it, “ultimate convenience.” It’s the go-to format in convenience stores, offering a simple grab-and-go option for people who want something substantial in a single serve.

As traditional beer venues face stiffer competition, gas stations and convenience stores are one bright spot. In fact, National Retail Solutions data reveals that beer sales in these stores rose 5.3% from January to March 2023, while overall beer sales in other retail outlets barely saw a 1.4% increase. Craft beer in particular jumped nearly 9% year-over-year, proving that convenience stores are a rising platform for craft brewers.

(See our other article here: Unlocking Flavor and Branding: The Rise of 19.2-Ounce Craft Beer Cans)

Who’s Buying the Tall Boys?

The 19.2-ounce “stovepipe” can appeals to a unique consumer—the on-the-go buyer who wants quality in a larger single serve, not a whole six-pack. Scott Powell, Marketing Director at Bell’s Brewery, which packages popular brews like Two Hearted Ale and Oberon in 19.2-ounce cans, points out that convenience store shoppers are often looking for a quick, satisfying grab to enjoy right away. And for many, that extra bit of beer makes all the difference when they’re in a rush.

With the tall cans driving dollar growth in craft beer sales, breweries are racing to join the trend. Joe Sepka from the consulting firm 3 Tier Beverages notes that 19.2-ounce cans are now the top driver of growth in craft beer, even outpacing 12-packs. NielsenIQ data confirms that sales of these cans surged 57% over the past year, a rise due partly to higher prices but mostly due to increased demand and wider availability.

Leading the Pack: The Skeleton in the Can

If you’re wondering what kicked off the trend, look no further than Voodoo Ranger. New Belgium’s Voodoo Ranger Imperial IPA saw a stunning 20.9% sales increase from August 2021 to August 2022, with its eye-catching skeleton can dominating convenience store shelves. Voodoo Ranger has become synonymous with tall cans and has set the tone for other breweries wanting to capture a similar market.

But it wasn’t New Belgium that first took a chance on this size. Oskar Blues pioneered the 19.2-ounce format in 2012 with its beloved Dale’s Pale Ale, and other craft breweries soon followed suit. When Anchor Brewing decided to can its iconic Steam Beer, it also opted for the 19.2-ounce size, a move that matched shifting consumer habits as 22-ounce glass bombers lost popularity.

The 19.2 Ounce Story: Imperial Pints and ABVs

So why 19.2 ounces? This size, close to an imperial pint (20 British ounces), works well for craft brewers because it uses the same canning lines as a standard 16-ounce can. For many breweries, like Anchor, the switch was cost-effective and efficient, allowing them to deliver a larger serving without major equipment adjustments.

High ABV beers also dominate the 19.2-ounce format. A single tall can offers a satisfying drink with a stronger kick—perfect for park visits, BBQs, and other outings where lugging around a six-pack isn’t practical. As beverage journalist Kate Bernot points out, convenience store shoppers are often looking for a higher-ABV option that’s compact yet delivers the goods. In short, that 8% or 9% beer in one big can is ideal for these settings.

The Pros and Cons of Going Big

While this trend is booming, not every brewery can jump on board. Producing 19.2-ounce cans requires an investment in equipment and logistics. Only breweries with the resources to expand into convenience stores or gas stations—and the budgets to price competitively—are likely to take the plunge. Smaller craft brewers often face challenges keeping prices in the $3 to $4 range for single cans, a price point dominated by large-scale brewers with better cost efficiencies.

Despite the hurdles, breweries with larger distribution networks are finding ways to make this format pay off. As Great Lakes Brewing’s CEO Mark King notes, “While there is a slight hit on margins with the extra 3.2 ounces, the volume more than makes up for it.”

Terrapin 19.2 oz Cans

Tall Cans Are Here to Stay

With the growing popularity of stovepipe cans in convenience stores, music festivals, and sports venues, the 19.2-ounce can is here to stay. Its convenient size, appealing ABV options, and easy-to-carry nature make it perfect for consumers on the move. Whether more local breweries will join the trend remains to be seen, but as craft beer’s top growth driver, this extra-tall can has set a new standard in craft beer packaging.

On-the-Go Craft Beer: Pennsylvania’s Move to 19.2-Ounce Cans

Perpetual IPA by Troegs Independent Brewing is a popular 19.2 oz can choice

Pennsylvania breweries have increasingly embraced the 19.2-ounce can, adding a convenient single-serve option for fans of craft beer across the state. Notable breweries like Troegs Independent Brewing in Hershey have begun offering some of their popular IPAs in this larger format, making it easier for fans to grab a single can on the way to events or gatherings. Troegs’ Double Graffiti Highway, a high-ABV double IPA, is a great example, designed to pack a bold flavor punch that suits the stovepipe can format perfectly. They also have their flagship beer – Perpetual IPA as well as Sunshine Pilsner and the Troegenator Double Bock in 19.2 oz cans.

Another PA standout, Victory Brewing Company, has also adopted the 19.2-ounce can to make some of their flagship beers more accessible. Their Golden Monkey Belgian-Style Tripel, known for its robust 9.5% ABV and fruity, spicy notes, is available in this larger format, ideal for convenience store shoppers looking for something a bit more substantial. With these tall cans, Victory has tapped into a growing trend of higher-ABV brews that cater to the on-the-go drinker.

Yuengling, America’s oldest brewery based in Pottsville, has also tested the waters with 19.2-ounce cans. Their Traditional Lager, a Pennsylvania staple, is now available in this format at select locations, offering fans a familiar choice that’s ideal for a quick drink at outdoor events, concerts, and sporting venues. With the flexibility of the 19.2-ounce can, Pennsylvania breweries are giving craft beer enthusiasts the perfect mix of quality, convenience, and value. (You can even find the Yuengling Lager in 24 oz cans at select venues like Citizens Bank and other baseball stadiums.)

New Trail Brewing is also a popular local Pennsylvania choice with their Broken Heels series of 19.2 oz cans. This includes Broken Heels (IPA), Double Broken Heels (Double IPA), and different flavored variants of Broken Heels like Tropical Broken Heels.

The Ever Evolving Craft Beer Landscape

As the craft beer landscape evolves, the rise of 19.2-ounce cans shows how breweries are listening to consumer demand for convenience and variety. This taller can size has become an ideal format for Pennsylvania breweries aiming to serve on-the-go craft beer fans, with options suited for quick trips to the park, a backyard BBQ, or catching a concert. These stovepipe cans deliver just the right amount of high-quality craft beer in a size that’s easy to carry and perfect for single-serve enjoyment.

With breweries like Troegs, Victory, and even Yuengling leading the way in Pennsylvania, the 19.2-ounce trend is reshaping how and where craft beer lovers can enjoy their favorite brews. For fans, it’s all about getting a great beer in a larger single-serve format that fits their active, mobile lifestyles. And for the breweries, it’s an opportunity to broaden their reach and meet customers where they already shop—at convenience stores, gas stations, and event venues.

Whether it’s an IPA, a Belgian-style ale, or a classic lager, these big cans are here to stay. As more Pennsylvania breweries explore this trend, craft beer fans can expect to see more of their favorite brews available in 19.2-ounce sizes, making it easier than ever to enjoy quality beer anywhere, anytime.

A Series of Craft Beer Articles

This is just one of several in a series of over arching ‘craft beer’ related articles. Several alone in a ‘flagship’ series. In the next few weeks there will be some more that come out as well. I would like to have this general level of different ‘craft beer articles’ that everyone can kind of jump to and read and use for informative purposes, and give a better understanding for the other articles on the site.

Some of these articles are about definitions (like “What is Craft Beer?“) and others are about Craft Breweries in general like the Top 50 Producing Craft Breweries, etc.

Articles on the History of Beer

Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

Thanks again for reading everyone. Take some time to check out the site, we greatly appreciate it. We have affiliates and sponsors with Pretzels.com and Beer Drop.com, which can save you money on their products if you are interested. Check out our articles on them. Make sure to check out our beer reviews, brewery reviews, Amy’s weekly column, book reviews, hike reviews, and so much more.

As always, thank you everyone for reading! Leave your likes, comments, suggestions, questions, etc, in the comments section. Or use the Feedback – Contact Us – page, and we’ll get right back to you! You can also reach out to us at our direct e-mail address: thebeerthrillers@gmail.com

Thank you for visiting our blog. Please make sure to follow, bookmark, subscribe, and make sure to comment and leave feedback and like the blog posts you read. It will help us to better tailor the blog to you, the readers, likes and make this a better blog for everyone.

We are working on a massive project here at The Beer Thrillers. We are creating a map of all of the breweries across the United States. State by state we are adding maps of all of the different states with every brewery in each state. (We will eventually get to the US Territories, as well as the Canadian Provinces, and possibly more countries; as well as doing some fun maps like a map of all the breweries we’ve been to, and other fun maps.) You can find the brewery maps here:

MAPS OF BREWERIES

We are also working on a project of creating printable and downloadable PDFs and resources to be able to check and keep track of all of the breweries you’ve been to. So stay tuned for that project once we are finished with the Brewery Maps of the US States.

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

Please be sure to follow us on our social media accounts – Facebook, Facebook Group, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Influence. As well as our brand new Tumblr page. Please be sure to also follow, like, subscribe to the blog here itself to keep updated. We love to hear from you guys, so be sure to leave a comment and let us know what you think!

You can now find us on our Discord Server here: The Beer Thrillers (Discord Server). We’ve also joined LinkTree to keep track of all of our social media pages, as well as hot new articles we’ve written.

The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

We have partnered with an affiliateship with Beer Drop.com. You can check out that partnership and receive great discounts, coupons, and more here: Beer Drop. Going here and logging in and ordering will help you receive your discounts and coupons as well as help support our page. Thank you for helping to support The Beer Thrillers and to help us maintain the site and blog and to keep it running.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #5 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #9 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of August 2024.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

You can also check out our partnership and affiliation with Pretzels.com, where ordering pretzels and using our affiliate code – AFFILIATE CODE IS THEBEERTHRILLERS20 – will help you get wonderful pretzels and help us maintain and keep this blog running. Thank you!

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

(Thank you for reading. The opinions, thoughts, and expressions of each article posted on The Beer Thrillers represents the author of the content and only themselves. It does not express the opinions, beliefs, or ideas held by The Beer Thrillers or any company in which the author themselves work for. Each piece of written content is written by the creator(s) listed in the authorial section on each article unless otherwise noted. Their opinions, comments, and words on screen do not represent any company in which they work for and / or are affiliated with or any non – profits that they contribute to. Thank you.)

Book Review: Big Two Hearted River (by Ernest Hemingway)

B. Kline — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 12:30:27 +0000

Big Two Hearted River by Ernest Hemingway

Two Hearted River

Found this sitting on the “new fiction” shelf at the Hershey Public Library. I enjoy Hemingway for what he is (well, was), and his style is something I can usually get behind. Plus a quick read to help with my GoodRead’s Yearly Book Challenge, and also staring at the cover, it finally clicked for me – the connection to Bell’s Brewery’s Two Hearted Ale / IPA. So needless to say I knew I had to grab the novella to read and review for the site here, to go along with a review of the beer as well!

(You can see that review here: Beer Review: Two Hearted IPA by Bell’s Brewery.)

Ernest Hemingway

Hemingway working on For Whom the Bell Tolls at the Sun Valley Lodge, 1939 (photo courtesy of Wikipedia)

Ernest Hemingway, born on July 21, 1899, in Oak Park, Illinois, is one of the most influential American writers of the 20th century. Renowned for his distinctive writing style, characterized by economy and understatement, Hemingway’s impact on literature is profound and enduring. He began his writing career as a journalist, which significantly shaped his concise and direct prose style. His early work as a reporter for the Kansas City Star and later as a correspondent during World War I and the Spanish Civil War provided a foundation for his literary career and informed the themes of courage, conflict, and survival that permeate his work.

Hemingway’s experiences in World War I were particularly formative. Serving as an ambulance driver for the Italian Red Cross, he was severely wounded, an experience that deeply influenced his outlook on life and death. This period is reflected in his first major novel, “A Farewell to Arms,” which is widely regarded as one of the greatest war novels ever written. The novel’s stark portrayal of the futility and devastation of war set against a poignant love story encapsulates Hemingway’s ability to blend personal and historical narratives.

Throughout his life, Hemingway was an adventurer and a keen observer of the human condition. His love for bullfighting, big-game hunting, deep-sea fishing, and other pursuits often found their way into his writing. “The Sun Also Rises,” his first significant novel, captures the disillusionment and aimlessness of the post-World War I generation, known as the Lost Generation. Set against the backdrop of Spain’s bullfighting culture, the novel is a testament to Hemingway’s fascination with bravery, ritual, and the struggle against insurmountable odds.

Hemingway’s later works, such as “For Whom the Bell Tolls” and “The Old Man and the Sea,” further cemented his status as a literary giant. “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” set during the Spanish Civil War, explores themes of honor, duty, and sacrifice, while “The Old Man and the Sea” tells the story of an epic struggle between an aging fisherman and a giant marlin. The latter work won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1953 and contributed to Hemingway being awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1954. His narrative techniques, especially the “iceberg theory,” where the underlying themes are implied rather than explicitly stated, have influenced generations of writers.

Despite his literary success, Hemingway’s life was marked by personal turmoil and tragedy. He struggled with depression, alcoholism, and the lingering effects of numerous physical injuries. These struggles culminated in his suicide on July 2, 1961, in Ketchum, Idaho. Hemingway’s legacy, however, remains undiminished. His works continue to be studied and celebrated for their powerful storytelling, innovative style, and profound exploration of the human spirit. As a writer who lived life to its fullest and confronted its darkest depths, Ernest Hemingway’s contributions to literature and his larger-than-life persona have left an indelible mark on the world of letters.

From Wikipedia:

Ernest Miller Hemingway (/ˈhɛmɪŋweɪ/ HEM-ing-way; July 21, 1899 – July 2, 1961) was an American novelist, short-story writer and journalist. Known for an economical, understated style that influenced later 20th-century writers, he has been romanticized for his adventurous lifestyle and outspoken, blunt public image. Some of his seven novels, six short-story collections and two non-fiction works have become classics of American literature, and he was awarded the 1954 Nobel Prize in Literature.

Hemingway was raised in Oak Park, Illinois, in the Chicago area. After high school, he spent six months as a cub reporter for The Kansas City Star before enlisting in the Red Cross. He served as an ambulance driver on the Italian Front in World War I and was seriously wounded in 1918. His wartime experiences formed the basis for his 1929 novel A Farewell to Arms.

In 1921, Hemingway married Hadley Richardson, the first of four wives. They moved to Paris where he worked as a foreign correspondent for the Toronto Star and fell under the influence of the modernist writers and artists of the 1920s’ “Lost Generation” expatriate community. His debut novel, The Sun Also Rises, was published in 1926.

He divorced Richardson in 1927 and married Pauline Pfeiffer. They divorced after he returned from the Spanish Civil War, where he had worked as a journalist and which formed the basis for his 1940 novel For Whom the Bell Tolls. Martha Gellhorn became his third wife in 1940. He and Gellhorn separated after he met Mary Welsh in London during World War II. Hemingway was present with Allied troops as a journalist at the Normandy landings and the liberation of Paris. He maintained permanent residences in Key West, Florida, in the 1930s and in Cuba in the 1940s and 1950s. On a 1954 trip to Africa, he was seriously injured in plane accidents on successive days, leaving him in pain and ill health for much of the rest of his life. In 1959, he bought a house in Ketchum, Idaho, where he lived until his death by suicide two years later.

Ernest Hemingway – Wikipedia

Book Review

Big Two Hearted River by Ernest Hemmingway

Back of cover blurb by GoodReads:

A gorgeous new centennial edition of Ernest Hemingway’s landmark short story of returning veteran Nick Adams’s solo fishing trip in Michigan’s rugged Upper Peninsula, illustrated with specially commissioned artwork by master engraver Chris Wormell and featuring a revelatory foreword by John N. Maclean. “The finest story of the outdoors in American literature.” — Sports Illustrated A century since its publication in the collection In Our Time , “Big Two-Hearted River” has helped shape language and literature in America and across the globe, and its magnetic pull continues to draw readers, writers, and critics. The story is the best early example of Ernest Hemingway’s now-familiar writing short sentences, punchy nouns and verbs, few adjectives and adverbs, and a seductive cadence. Easy to imitate, difficult to match. The subject matter of the story has inspired generations of writers to believe that fly fishing can be literature. More than any of his stories, it depends on his ‘iceberg theory’ of literature, the notion that leaving essential parts of a story unsaid, the underwater portion of the iceberg, adds to its power. Taken in context with his other work, it marks Hemingway’s passage from boyish writer to accomplished nothing big came before it, novels and stories poured out after it. —from the foreword by John N. Maclean

Big Two Hearted River – GoodReads

A Deep Dive into Hemingway’s “Big Two-Hearted River”

Introduction

Ernest Hemingway’s novella, “Big Two-Hearted River,” is a poignant and profound exploration of healing, nature, and the human spirit. Published in 1925 as part of his short story collection In Our Time, this work is renowned for its minimalist style and deep emotional resonance. Let’s delve into the layers of meaning and artistry that make this novella a masterpiece.

Summary

“Big Two-Hearted River” follows Nick Adams, a character often seen as a semi-autobiographical representation of Hemingway himself. After returning from the trauma of World War I, Nick seeks solace and rejuvenation in the wilderness of Michigan. The novella is divided into two parts, detailing Nick’s journey to a remote river and his subsequent fishing expedition.

In the first part, Nick arrives at a burned-out town and treks to the river, setting up camp with meticulous care. The second part focuses on his fishing, depicting his methodical and almost ritualistic approach to catching trout. Through these simple actions, Nick reconnects with nature and begins to heal from his wartime experiences.

Themes

1. Healing through Nature The natural world serves as a therapeutic backdrop for Nick’s recovery. The detailed descriptions of the landscape and the river’s serenity contrast sharply with the chaos of war, offering Nick a space to find peace and regain control over his life.

2. Solitude and Self-Reliance Nick’s journey is one of solitude and self-reliance, emphasizing the importance of self-sufficiency in the healing process. His deliberate actions and careful preparations reflect a need to rebuild his sense of autonomy and stability.

3. The Power of Ritual The novella underscores the significance of ritual and routine in coping with trauma. Nick’s methodical approach to camping and fishing illustrates how repetitive, purposeful actions can provide comfort and a sense of normalcy.

Style and Technique

Minimalist Prose Hemingway’s signature minimalist style is on full display in “Big Two-Hearted River.” His economical use of language and focus on surface details belie the deeper emotional currents running beneath the narrative. This “iceberg theory” of writing allows readers to infer Nick’s psychological state without overt exposition.

Symbolism The burned-out town symbolizes the destruction left by war, while the river represents a source of life and renewal. The act of fishing, with its focus on patience and precision, mirrors Nick’s internal process of piecing himself back together.

Imagery and Sensory Detail Hemingway’s vivid imagery and sensory detail immerse readers in the natural environment. Descriptions of the river, the trout, and the campfire create a tangible sense of place and underscore the restorative power of nature.

Impact and Legacy

“Big Two-Hearted River” has had a lasting impact on literature, influencing countless writers with its spare, evocative prose and profound themes. It remains a quintessential example of Hemingway’s ability to convey complex emotions through simplicity and restraint.

The novella also holds a special place in the hearts of readers who have experienced trauma, offering a timeless depiction of the healing power of nature and the importance of finding solace in simple, deliberate actions.

Conclusion

Ernest Hemingway’s “Big Two-Hearted River” is a masterful exploration of healing and the human spirit. Through its minimalist prose, rich symbolism, and profound themes, the novella captures the essence of recovery and the quiet strength found in nature and solitude. It stands as a testament to Hemingway’s literary genius and continues to resonate with readers nearly a century after its publication.

My GoodReads Rating: ***
My LibraryThing Rating: ***.5
Global GoodReads Rating: 3.82 (as of 7.24.24)

Literary Connection: Hemingway’s “Big Two-Hearted River”

Two Hearted IPA by Bell’s Brewery (photo courtesy of Bell’s Brewery)

One of the unique aspects of Two Hearted Ale is its connection to Ernest Hemingway’s novella, “Big Two-Hearted River.” The beer’s name pays homage to this classic literary work, which is set in Michigan’s wilderness, much like Bell’s Brewery itself.

In Hemingway’s story, the protagonist, Nick Adams, finds solace and healing in nature after the trauma of war. The serene and restorative qualities of the river in the novella mirror the experience of savoring a Two Hearted Ale. Just as Nick reconnects with himself through the simplicity and beauty of nature, enjoying a Two Hearted Ale can be a similarly grounding and enriching experience.

The beer embodies the spirit of the story—simple yet profound, familiar yet deeply satisfying. For fans of both craft beer and literature, this connection adds an extra layer of appreciation and enjoyment.

I just recently finished the novella, and it immediately clicked in my had the connection between Hemingway’s “Big Two Hearted River” novella and the beer by Bell’s Brewery (Two Hearted River IPA / Ale). Its amazing how I never put the connection together before I picked up the novella at the Hershey Public Library and read it.

We also reviewed the beer as well.

You can find the review here:

Beer Review: Two Hearted IPA by Bell’s Brewery

Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

MAPS OF BREWERIES

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #7 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #8 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of January 2023.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

Two Hearted Ale: A Timeless Classic from Bell’s Brewery

B. Kline — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 01:45:30 +0000

Two Hearted Ale (IPA) by Bell’s Brewery (photo courtesy of Bell’s Brewery)

Two Hearted Ale Review: A Timeless Classic from Bell’s Brewery

When it comes to American IPAs, few names resonate as strongly as Two Hearted Ale. Brewed by Bell’s Brewery, this iconic beer has consistently ranked among the top in various beer competitions and is beloved by craft beer enthusiasts. Let’s dive into what makes this ale a timeless classic.

Two Hearted IPA by Bell’s Brewery

Beer: Two Hearted IPA
Brewery: Bell’s Brewery
Style: IPA – American
ABV: 7%
IBU: 55
Untappd Description:

Brewed with 100% Centennial hops from the Pacific Northwest and named after the Two Hearted River in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, this IPA is bursting with hop aromas ranging from pine to grapefruit from massive hop additions in both the kettle and the fermenter.

Perfectly balanced with a malt backbone and combined with the signature fruity aromas of Bell’s house yeast, this beer is remarkably drinkable and well suited for adventures everywhere.

Appearance

Two Hearted Ale pours a vibrant amber color with a slight haze, topped with a frothy, white head that lingers beautifully. The carbonation is lively, contributing to the visual appeal and ensuring a refreshing sip every time.

Aroma

The aroma is where Two Hearted Ale truly shines. It bursts with the scent of fresh pine, citrus, and floral notes, thanks to the generous use of Centennial hops. There’s a subtle malt sweetness that balances the hoppy bouquet, making it inviting and complex.

Taste

On the palate, Two Hearted Ale delivers a harmonious blend of hop bitterness and malt sweetness. The Centennial hops dominate with flavors of grapefruit, pine, and resin, while the malt backbone provides a smooth, slightly caramelized sweetness that rounds out the bitterness perfectly. The finish is crisp and clean, with a lingering hoppy aftertaste that invites you for another sip.

Mouthfeel

The mouthfeel is medium-bodied with moderate carbonation, offering a smooth and slightly creamy texture. This balance ensures that Two Hearted Ale is both refreshing and satisfying, making it suitable for any occasion.

Overall Impression

Two Hearted Ale by Bell’s Brewery is a benchmark for American IPAs. Its well-balanced profile of hops and malts, combined with its iconic aroma and flavor, make it a must-try for any craft beer lover. Whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or new to the world of IPAs, Two Hearted Ale is a timeless classic that never disappoints.

Pairing Suggestions

To enhance your Two Hearted Ale experience, try pairing it with spicy foods like buffalo wings, bold cheeses like blue cheese, or even a hearty burger. The beer’s hoppy bitterness complements spicy and rich flavors, making it an excellent companion to a variety of dishes.

Final Thoughts

Bell’s Brewery has crafted a masterpiece with Two Hearted Ale. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its exceptional quality and flavor. If you haven’t tried it yet, now is the perfect time to see why this IPA is considered one of the best in the world.

My Untappd Rating: ****
Global Untappd Rating: 3.94 (as of 7.23.24)

Literary Connection: Hemingway’s “Big Two-Hearted River”

Big Two Hearted River by Ernest Hemmingway

We also reviewed the novella as well.

You can read our review here:

Book Review: Big Two Hearted River (by Ernest Hemingway)

FAQs about Two Hearted Ale

Q: What is the ABV of Two Hearted Ale?
A: Two Hearted Ale has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 7.0%.

Q: Where can I buy Two Hearted Ale?
A: Two Hearted Ale is widely available in many liquor stores, supermarkets, and online beer retailers. Check Bell’s Brewery’s official website for a store locator.

Q: What awards has Two Hearted Ale won?
A: Two Hearted Ale has won numerous awards, including being named the best beer in America multiple times by the American Homebrewers Association.

Q: Can I visit Bell’s Brewery?
A: Yes, Bell’s Brewery offers tours and has a taproom where you can sample their beers. Visit their official website for more information on visiting.

Busy Week

Whew, what a busy week. On a personal note, just wanted to say what all has been going on with us. In the past week we did our video review of The Acolyte’s finale (Episode 8) with Knights of Nostalgia. You can view that here: The Acolyte – Episode 8 Review. Then on Thursday, we (Ben, Amy, and Josh) hung out with Jesse and Amanda of Sworn Brewing to do a one year follow up article with them (look for that soon), and then on Friday and Saturday it was Ffej of July (Ffej of July 21!), then Sunday Josh got to go to the Boneshire Mug Club Meeting (I unfortunately had to work), and then tonight is the Foo Fighter’s Concert. Tomorrow and Thursday (Wednesday and Thursday) we are going to be in Richmond Virginia visiting breweries like The Veil and The Answer, as well as doing some sight seeing and visiting other breweries.

So its certainly been a busy last few days and a busy upcoming few days!

Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

MAPS OF BREWERIES

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #7 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #8 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of January 2023.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

New Bells-gium – New Belgium Brewing and Lion Acquires Bell’s Brewery

BKline — Thu, 11 Nov 2021 03:44:55 +0000

New Belgium Brewing and their parent company Lion purchase Bell’s Brewery

Blockbuster News

Talk about a blockbuster news story today. I’ve been a bit under the weather the past two days, so apologies for posting this late, but wow, what blockbuster news we got today in the craft beer world. I first saw it while half – awake / half – asleep (while sitting on my back patio in the sun, trying to feel better, while reading a book and dozing in and out of sleep) – a Facebook post by New Belgium Brewing where they were saying the thing missing from Fat Tire was a ‘bell’ attached to the bike… and I didn’t really read it and just skimmed it, thinking they were talking about a collaboration between the two, and promptly dozed off in the gorgeous Pennsylvania November warm sun. (Two years in a row now during this week we have had fantastic weather.)

Then, later on in the day, my phone blew up with four different friends all messaging me with the news. And after taking care of a few things, and starting to feel better, I dug down into this and did some reading and writing this article up. (And maintaining our daily article count for November.)

New Belgium

New Belgium Brewing Company is one of the bigger names in the craft beer industry – as far as still genuinely is craft beer. According to their Untappd page New Belgium Brewing Company:

New Belgium Brewing is a nationally distributed brewery recognized as a leader in sustainability and social responsibility. Founded in 1991 in Fort Collins, Colorado, the company expanded to Asheville, North Carolina, in 2016 and Denver, Colorado, in 2018, and is now the fourth largest craft brewery in the U.S. Dedicated to proving that business can be a force for good, New Belgium is a Certified B-Corp and was the first brewery to join 1% for the Planet. The brewery has donated over $26 million to charitable causes since 1991. New Belgium is famous for its flagship beer, Fat Tire Amber Ale, along with year-round favorites like Voodoo Ranger IPA and La Folie Sour Brown Ale as well as an award-winning wood-aged sour program and innovative limited release beers. To learn more about the full product line-up and New Belgium’s Human powered Business model, visit NewBelgium.com
Untappd: New Belgium

Interestingly, Untappd lists them as a ‘macro’ brewery. They have 429 unique beers with a global average rating of 3.63 (as of 11.10.21) with over 8.62Million check-ins and 1.2Million (+) being unique check-ins. They are listed as a subsidiary of Kirin Brewing Company.

New Belgium is best known for their Fat Tire and VooDoo Ranger IPA series. If you go to any Sheetz, Rutters, Exxon, or other beer selling gas station, or any distributor, you will see a large range of New Belgium brews on the shelves in six packs and four packs, in both cans and bottles. They certainly command a strong shelf presence; right up there with the ABV InBev owned “craft breweries” (Goose Island, Blue Moon, Elysian, etc.).

Bell’s Brewery

Once again dipping back into Untappd, let’s take a look at Bell’s Brewery’s page:

Bell’s began in 1985 with a quest for better beer and a 15 gallon soup kettle. The dedication to brewing flavorful, unfiltered, quality craft beers that started in 1985 is still with us today. We currently brew over 20 beers for distribution as well as many other small batch beers that are served at our pub in Kalamazoo, the Eccentric Cafe. Our ongoing goal is to brew thoughtfully, creatively and artistically. 100% family-owned and independent. Bell’s Brewery, Comstock, Michigan
Untappd: Bell’s Brewery

On Untappd, Bell’s Brewery is listed as a Regional Brewery with 486 unique beers and a global average rating (as of 11.10.21) of 3.85. They have a total of 7.36Million (+) check-ins with 967,019 (as of 8:41PM) being unique check-ins.

Bell’s Brewery has a pretty large distribution footprint similar to other large or regional breweries; such as Founders (another Michigan brewery). Some of their bigger or more well known brews are Oberon, Hopslam, Two Hearted Ale, and Expedition Stout.

Two Hearted Ale is one of the more celebrated ‘all around’ easy drinking beers that makes numerous lists. And Hoslam is a seasonal favorite right on par with Nugget Nectar and Mad Elf; a beer people set their watches to (or I guess calendars to).

The Merge

This is certainly going to be one of the bigger merges of craft breweries…. in a long time. Up there with ABV InBev buying Wicked Weed or Goose Island; or the Samuel Adams and Dogfish Head agreement; and bigger than the Victory and Southern Tier agreement.

You can watch Larry Bell’s retirement video that was posted to the Bell’s Brewery YouTube page below:

Larry Bell announces his retirement and the acquisition of Bell’s Brewery by New Belgium

You can view their YouTube channel here: Bell’s Brewery on YouTube.

As he says above in the video, he incorporated the company when he was 25 years old in 1983 and has ran as president of operations for the 38 years since. He is stepping down and announcing his retirement due to many factors, but the notable one being age and health issues.

From MLive.com:

KALAMAZOO, MI — Bell’s Brewery is set to become the second major American craft brewing company to be acquired by Lion, an Australian-based beverage company with a growing international portfolio.
Lion recently purchased Fort Collins, Colorado-based, New Belgium Brewing Co. in 2019.
Bell’s founder and president Larry Bell told the Kalamazoo Gazette/MLive Wednesday that the board of directors at Bell’s voted in January to begin exploring the sale of the company. Upper Hand Brewery in Escanaba, which Bell opened in 2014 in Escanaba, will also be part of the sale.
mlive.com – Bell’s Brewery Being Bought by Australian Company that Purchased New Belgium Brewing in 2019

From Brewpublic:

By aligning with New Belgium, Bell’s will expand on its own commitments to coworkers, communities, and customers by adopting many hallmark, human-powered business practices – including seeking B Corporation certification, 100% carbon neutrality by 2030, $1 per barrel philanthropy, and 100% score on the Human Rights Campaign Corporate Equality Index. Bell’s fans can expect the same meaningful involvement with the Michigan community, driven by events like Oberon Day and supporting Kalamazoo Pride, which have been core to the company’s vision and values from the beginning.
“In Bell’s, we see a likeminded group of people dedicated to making the world’s best beer – doing business in a way that improves the wellbeing of the people who power our success,” said New Belgium CEO Steve Fechheimer, a Michigan native and longtime Bell’s drinker. “We couldn’t be happier to welcome the entire Bell’s team. Joining together will immediately strengthen our ability to serve and expand the craft community, deliver more value for our partners, and continue to redefine how business is done in a world facing historic economic, social, and environmental challenges. Personally, I can’t wait to celebrate Oberon Day in 2022!”
Over its 30 years in business, New Belgium has pioneered a unique ‘human-powered’ business model grounded in the idea that building the most successful and resilient business requires prioritizing the prosperity of coworkers, communities, and customers across the company’s operations. This novel approach has been the foundation for New Belgium’s industry-leading growth and standout ability to reach younger, more diverse beer drinkers. That model will now grow to include Bell’s approximately 550 employees, 500,000-barrel brewery in Comstock, Mich., and beloved brands like Two Hearted, voted the best beer in America multiple times.
Brewpublic.com – New Belgium Brewing and Lion Acquire Bells Brewery

This has certainly become the hot topic of the craft beer online world. With nearly every beer group on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter that I’m engaged in and read and check out all having people talking about it, speculating about the merge, and what all it means for both New Belgium and Bell’s Brewery, as well as us the consumers. Thankfully as Larry Bell stated in his video, the workers look to be well taken care of and that the transition looks like it will be a good and smooth one for the employees (of both companies).

Even Yahoo News covered the story in an article:

New Belgium Brewing and Bell’s Brewery will become one entity led by New Belgium CEO Steve Fechheimer, according to New Belgium. Bell’s Brewery’s, which distributes to 43 states and was listed as the seventh largest U.S. craft brewing company earlier this year, has 550 employees who will become New Belgium employees once the acquisition is finalized in the coming months, according to New Belgium spokesperson Megan Olson.
No changes are currently planned for either brewery’s beverage options, operational footprints or Bell’s Brewery’s “deep presence in the Kalamazoo community,” Olson confirmed Thursday.
Yahoo News: Michigan’s Bell’s Brewery acquired by New Belgium

Larry Bell

Larry Bell announces his retirement via YouTube video

Larry Bell is one of the most respected brewers, owners, and activists in the brewing company. Announcing his retirement today and stating health issues, a flood of well wishers, congratulations, and attaboys flooded the internet from those in and out of the industry. His impact is far and well felt in the community of the craft beer industry, as well as by the consumers.

Bell’s Brewery employs 600~ employees and has a distribution footprint of 42 states in America as well as Puerto Rico. Bell’s Brewery annually produces 310,000 barrels of beer. As per the Bell’s Brewery wikipedia page:

Larry Bell incorporated The Kalamazoo Brewing Company, Inc., in 1983 as a homebrewing supply shop in Kalamazoo, Michigan.^[8] In September 1985, the company began to sell its own beer, brewed in a 15-US-gallon (57 L) soup kettle and fermented in open fermenters covered with plastic wrap. The company produced 135 barrels in its first year. In 1993 the company opened an adjacent brewpub, the Eccentric Café.^[9]
In 2003, Bell’s opened an additional brewing facility in nearby Comstock, Michigan.^[9] The company legally changed its name in 2006 to Bell’s Brewery, Inc., reflecting the name by which it was popularly known.^[10] A larger production facility in Comstock opened in 2012, increasing the company’s brewing capacity from 180,000 barrels to 500,000 barrels per year.^[11]
In late 2012, the Bell family repurchased all stock held by outside investors, returning the company to full family ownership.^[12]
Wikipedia: Bell’s Brewery

We here at The Beer Thrillers wish Larry Bell a happy retirement and hope his health issues get better and that he has a long and well preserved retirement. Would be fantastic to have a pint with him in Kalamazoo.

Mainstream News Sources

Check out the following mainstream news sources to read more about New Belgium acquiring Bell’s Brewery:

Social Media:

Bell’s Brewery:

Facebook: Bell’s Brewery
Twitter: Bell’s Brewery
Instagram: Bell’s Brewery

New Belgium:

Brewery Expansions, Openings, Closings, News

For some of our other links on brewery expansions, openings, closings, and news, check out the following:

Thanks For Reading

As always, thanks for reading everyone. This was certainly a big news day in the craft beer world! And I’m starting to feel better. Thankfully tomorrow and Friday are my weekend, so I should be able to get back to work Saturday. Be sure to check out all of our social media pages. And as November continues, we here at The Beer Thrillers are continuing with our daily articles. So be sure to be checking back here at the blog daily to stay up to date!

Cheers!

-B. Kline

Please be sure to follow us on our social media accounts – Facebook, Facebook Group, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Influence. Please be sure to also follow, like, subscribe to the blog here itself to keep updated. We love to hear from you guys, so be sure to leave a comment and let us know what you think!

Two Hearted Ale - The Beer Thrillers

Why 19.2-Ounce Cans Are Becoming the New Craft Beer Staple

Why 19.2-Ounce Cans Are Becoming the New Craft Beer Staple

The Magic of Convenience

Who’s Buying the Tall Boys?

Leading the Pack: The Skeleton in the Can

The 19.2 Ounce Story: Imperial Pints and ABVs

The Pros and Cons of Going Big

Tall Cans Are Here to Stay

On-the-Go Craft Beer: Pennsylvania’s Move to 19.2-Ounce Cans

The Ever Evolving Craft Beer Landscape

A Series of Craft Beer Articles

Articles on the History of Beer

Thank You For Reading

Book Review: Big Two Hearted River (by Ernest Hemingway)

Two Hearted River

Ernest Hemingway

Book Review

A Deep Dive into Hemingway’s “Big Two-Hearted River”

Introduction

Summary

Themes

Style and Technique

Impact and Legacy

Conclusion

Literary Connection: Hemingway’s “Big Two-Hearted River”

Thank You For Reading

Two Hearted Ale: A Timeless Classic from Bell’s Brewery

Two Hearted Ale Review: A Timeless Classic from Bell’s Brewery

Appearance

Aroma

Taste

Mouthfeel

Overall Impression

Pairing Suggestions

Final Thoughts

Literary Connection: Hemingway’s “Big Two-Hearted River”

FAQs about Two Hearted Ale

More Articles About Bell’s Brewery

Busy Week

Thank You For Reading

New Bells-gium – New Belgium Brewing and Lion Acquires Bell’s Brewery

Blockbuster News

New Belgium

Bell’s Brewery

The Merge

Larry Bell

Mainstream News Sources

Social Media:

Bell’s Brewery:

New Belgium:

Brewery Expansions, Openings, Closings, News

Thanks For Reading