Pabst Blue Ribbon, the iconic American beer brand, made a bold move in 2019 by venturing into the world of hard coffee. PBR Hard Coffee, a 5% ABV beverage, quickly gained popularity among coffee lovers and beer enthusiasts alike. But have you ever wondered what kind of alcohol is in PBR Hard Coffee? In this article, we’ll dive into the world of hard coffee, explore the history of PBR, and get to the bottom of what makes this innovative drink tick.
A Brief History of Pabst Blue Ribbon
Before we dive into the details of PBR Hard Coffee, let’s take a step back and look at the rich history of Pabst Blue Ribbon. Founded in 1844 by Frederick Pabst, the company has been brewing beer for over 175 years. Pabst’s innovative approach to brewing, which included the use of a special yeast and a proprietary brewing process, quickly made the brand a household name.
Throughout the years, Pabst Blue Ribbon has remained a beloved American brand, with its signature blue ribbon logo becoming synonymous with quality and tradition. The brand has weathered many storms, including Prohibition and the rise of craft beer, to emerge as a leader in the beverage industry.
The Rise of Hard Coffee
Hard coffee, also known as coffee beer or caffeinated beer, is a type of beer that combines the richness of coffee with the kick of alcohol. The concept of hard coffee has been around for decades, with some breweries experimenting with coffee-infused beers as early as the 1990s. However, it wasn’t until the 2010s that hard coffee started to gain mainstream popularity.
The rise of hard coffee can be attributed to several factors, including the growing demand for coffee and the increasing popularity of craft beer. With the rise of coffee culture, consumers began to seek out new and innovative ways to enjoy their daily cup. At the same time, craft breweries were looking for ways to differentiate themselves from the masses. Hard coffee proved to be the perfect solution, offering a unique blend of flavors and a caffeine kick.
What’s in PBR Hard Coffee?
So, what’s the secret behind PBR Hard Coffee? According to the brand’s website, PBR Hard Coffee is made with a blend of Arabica and Robusta coffee beans, rich and smooth coffee flavor, and a hint of creamy sweetness. But what about the alcohol content? PBR Hard Coffee contains 5% ABV, making it a moderate-strength drink.
But what kind of alcohol is used in PBR Hard Coffee? The answer lies in the brewing process. Unlike traditional beer, which is brewed using fermented grains, hard coffee is made by infusing cold-brewed coffee into a distilled spirit. In the case of PBR Hard Coffee, the base spirit is a neutral grain spirit, similar to vodka.
The use of a neutral grain spirit allows the coffee flavors to take center stage, while providing a smooth and clean finish. This is in contrast to traditional beer, which is brewed using fermented grains and yeast, resulting in a more complex flavor profile.
The Brewing Process
The brewing process for PBR Hard Coffee is a closely guarded secret, but we can infer some details based on industry standards. Here’s a general overview of how hard coffee is typically made:
- Cold-brewing: The brewing process starts with high-quality Arabica and Robusta coffee beans, which are cold-brewed to extract the flavors and oils.
- Distillation: The cold-brewed coffee is then infused into a neutral grain spirit, which is distilled to create a high-proof coffee liqueur.
- Blending: The coffee liqueur is blended with sweetener, creamer, and other flavorings to create the final product.
- Filtration and Packaging: The final product is filtered and packaged in cans or bottles, ready for consumption.
Tasting Notes and Reviews
So, what does PBR Hard Coffee taste like? According to reviews and tasting notes, PBR Hard Coffee is a smooth and creamy drink with a rich coffee flavor. The 5% ABV provides a gentle kick, making it a great choice for those who want a caffeinated drink without the jitters.
Some reviewers have noted that PBR Hard Coffee is sweeter than expected, with a hint of vanilla and caramel flavors. Others have praised the drink’s smooth mouthfeel and lack of bitterness.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Rich coffee flavor, smooth and creamy with hints of vanilla and caramel |
| ABV | 5% |
| Sweetness Level | Moderately sweet, with a hint of sweetness |
Conclusion
PBR Hard Coffee is a game-changer in the world of beverages, offering a unique blend of coffee and alcohol. With its rich flavor profile, smooth mouthfeel, and gentle kick, it’s no wonder this drink has become a hit among coffee lovers and beer enthusiasts alike.
By understanding the brewing process and the type of alcohol used, we can appreciate the craftsmanship and innovation that goes into creating PBR Hard Coffee. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur, a beer enthusiast, or simply looking for a new drink to try, PBR Hard Coffee is definitely worth a shot.
So, the next time you crack open a cold can of PBR Hard Coffee, remember the rich history behind the brand, the innovative brewing process, and the 5% ABV that makes it all possible. Cheers!
What is PBR Hard Coffee?
PBR Hard Coffee is a new line of coffee-flavored malt beverages created by Pabst Blue Ribbon (PBR), a well-known American brewery. The drink combines the classic PBR beer taste with a kick of coffee, making it a unique and refreshing beverage. PBR Hard Coffee is the first of its kind in the market, offering a twist on traditional beer and coffee drinks.
With an ABV of 5%, PBR Hard Coffee is not too strong, but still packs a punch. The drink is available in 11 oz cans and can be found in stores and bars across the country. PBR Hard Coffee is a perfect choice for those looking to try something new and exciting, and its unique flavor profile is sure to appeal to both beer and coffee lovers alike.
How does PBR Hard Coffee taste?
The taste of PBR Hard Coffee is a perfect blend of rich, smooth coffee and the classic PBR beer taste. The coffee flavor is not overpowering, but rather complements the beer nicely, creating a smooth and refreshing taste experience. The drink has a slight sweetness to it, but it’s not too sugary or artificial-tasting.
When you take a sip of PBR Hard Coffee, the initial flavor is that of a cold brew coffee, but as you swallow, the PBR beer taste kicks in, leaving you with a refreshing and thirst-quenching sensation. The aftertaste is clean and smooth, with no bitter or unpleasant notes. Overall, the taste of PBR Hard Coffee is unique and enjoyable, making it a great choice for those looking to try something new.
Is PBR Hard Coffee a coffee substitute?
No, PBR Hard Coffee is not a coffee substitute. While it does contain coffee flavor, it’s still a beer-based drink and should be consumed responsibly. The amount of caffeine in PBR Hard Coffee is similar to that of a single cup of coffee, but the drink also contains 5% ABV, making it a beverage that’s meant to be enjoyed in moderation.
That being said, PBR Hard Coffee can be a great choice for those who want to get their coffee fix in a more entertaining way. The drink is perfect for brunches, outdoor events, or just a relaxing afternoon with friends. Just remember to always drink responsibly and never drink and drive.
Can I drink PBR Hard Coffee on its own or with food?
PBR Hard Coffee can be enjoyed on its own or with a variety of foods. The drink is versatile and can be paired with everything from breakfast items like pancakes and waffles to lunch and dinner options like burgers and sandwiches. The coffee flavor in PBR Hard Coffee also makes it a great pairing for sweet treats like donuts and pastries.
That being said, PBR Hard Coffee is a refreshing drink that can be enjoyed on its own, without any food accompaniment. Its smooth and creamy texture makes it easy to drink, and its unique flavor profile is sure to satisfy your thirst and cravings. Whether you’re hanging out with friends or just need a pick-me-up, PBR Hard Coffee is a great choice.
Is PBR Hard Coffee only available in the United States?
Currently, PBR Hard Coffee is only available in the United States, but the company has plans to expand its distribution to other countries in the near future. PBR has a global presence, and it’s likely that PBR Hard Coffee will become available in other countries soon.
If you’re outside of the United States and want to try PBR Hard Coffee, keep an eye on the company’s social media channels and website for updates on international availability. You can also reach out to your local beer distributors or retailers to express your interest in seeing PBR Hard Coffee on store shelves in your area.
How should I store PBR Hard Coffee?
PBR Hard Coffee should be stored in the refrigerator, just like any other beer. The ideal storage temperature is between 35°F and 40°F (2°C and 4°C), which will help preserve the flavor and aroma of the drink. It’s also a good idea to keep PBR Hard Coffee away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Once opened, PBR Hard Coffee should be consumed within a day or two, as the flavor and aroma may start to degrade over time. Make sure to check the expiration date on the can and to always drink responsibly.
Can I buy PBR Hard Coffee online?
Yes, PBR Hard Coffee can be bought online from various retailers, including the PBR website. However, availability and shipping regulations may vary depending on your location, so be sure to check the website’s shipping policies before making a purchase.
Some online retailers may also offer discounts, promotions, or bundles that can make buying PBR Hard Coffee online a more attractive option. Be sure to check reviews and ratings from other customers before making a purchase, and always drink responsibly.