Is Wheat Beer on the Rise to Take Over Lager Beer?
When it comes to beer consumption, lager beer, particularly pilsners, has been the dominant force for decades. However, the popularity of wheat beer is increasing, spurring discussions about whether it will eventually supplant traditional lagers. This article will explore the growth of wheat beer in the context of the craft beer market and analyze whether it has the potential to overtake lager beer in the near future.
The Dominance of Lager Beer
Lager beer, especially pilsners, are the largest-selling and most produced type of beer worldwide. Statista reports that lager, including pilsners, make up a vast portion of global beer production. This has led some to conclude that wheat beer might just be a passing fad. However, this perspective overlooks the nuances of the beer market, particularly the rise of craft beer.
The Craft Beer Scene and Wheat Beer
The craft beer market has seen significant growth in recent years. This sector includes a wide range of beers such as IPAs, pale ales, stouts, Vienna lagers, and many others, all of which are typically small-batch, artisanally produced, and not mass distributed. Unlike lagers, these beers are characterized by their unique flavors and brewing techniques. Wheat beer or wheat ale, often referred to as weizen, has become a prominent player in this market due to its unique taste profile and increasing popularity.
Wheat beers like weizens are not a recent phenomenon. They have a long history in Europe, with some varieties being over a thousand years old. Despite their age, these beers have not lost their appeal and are enjoyed by both traditional lager drinkers and craft beer enthusiasts. The unique grainy flavor and the possibility of pairing with fruits or fermenting with yeasts that add a little spice make wheat beers a distinct choice in the beer community.
Big Breweries and Wheat Beer
In an effort to tap into the growing craft beer market, some large conglomerate breweries have started producing their own versions of wheat ales. For instance, Anheuser-Busch InBev offers Shock Top and Molson Coors Brewing Company has Blue Moon. These brands are designed to cater to both craft beer lovers and those who prefer lighter beers like pilsners. The idea is to offer a product that is light enough for casual drinkers but with enough depth of flavor to appeal to craft beer aficionados.
While these efforts by big breweries may have played a role in increasing the visibility of wheat beers, it is important to note that they remain a niche product when compared to the mainstream lagers produced by these companies. The large breweries still have a significant market share with lager brands, and unless the craft beer market sees a dramatic shift in sales figures, it is unlikely that wheat beer will surpass lager beer in terms of overall market dominance.
Does Wheat Beer Represent a Fad?
Some might argue that the rise of wheat beer is nothing more than a fleeting fad. However, the sustained interest in these beers suggests otherwise. Wheat beer enthusiasts are a dedicated community, and the continued development of new styles and flavors attests to the enduring appeal of these beers. Unlike lagers, which are popular for their smooth, refreshing qualities, wheat beers offer a unique taste experience that caters to those looking for something different. This makes them a viable option for both casual and serious beer drinkers.
In conclusion, while lagers remain the most widely consumed type of beer, the rise of wheat beer in the craft beer market is a sign of diverse consumer preferences and the ongoing evolution of the brewing industry. Wheat beer is not a fad in the same way that lagers are; it is a enduring presence in the beer world, with its own unique place among the many varieties of beer enjoyed by beer enthusiasts.