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Although dialectics sometimes lead people to theorize the contrary, craft and industrial beers are quite different products. Consequently, their worlds are very far apart too, with completely different nature, philosophies and resources. Yet there is a new trend that seems to unite these two segments: the search for alternative materials containers. In the past we’ve already spoke of the rediscovery of cans (on which I’ll return later) and more recently we were arguing on PET bottles of Ceres and Bavaria. Today we must update the topic …

With the new cans’ boom aluminum seems to have suddenly become the best existing materials for beer, so that the metal is also used for new tasks. As always happen, innovation comes from big companies. For example Beernews reports that Coors Light is going to take advantage of a new and functional packaging: the aluminum bottle, called – in a totally sober way – Pint Aluminum Silver Bullet.

The innovation should involve both practical and aesthetic advantages. Regarding the former, which are more interesting, the official statement reads as follows:

The bottle provides transportability through a resealable screw cap and wide neck opening. [...] The bottle is unbreakable, 100% recyclable and helps keep the beer cold. It’s perfect for all occasions where glass is not allowed, such as beaches, sporting events, etc..

Coors does not seem an isolated affair, since today Beverfood reports the news that Heineken has launched a similar container. In this case, however, the advantages of aluminum are barely mentioned, while great emphasis is almost exclusively on marketing aspects:

Thanks to its original and innovative design, is distributed only in the most trendy premises with an original and innovative design [...] Refined and with a strong visual effect, the graphics of the new bottle enhances the famous Heineken star that stands on the classic green background, creating an amazing visual contrast. The aluminum shine also helps in enhancing Heineken icon, completing this luminous effect. The new 33 cl bottle, is made from 100% aluminum so it is entirely recyclable and has all the advantages of this material such as lightness, practicality and functionality.

OK, I have goose bumps, must admit it  :) . However, beyond the marketing guys’ imagination, we must jot down a growing interest in aluminum. A historically beer linked material, but only recently freed from the conception of a poor quality one, thanks to the advances made by technology in the field.

Concerning the craft sector can remains the only option to traditional glass bottle, at least in the companies that have recently focused on this container – actually almost exclusively limited to the U.S. market. Apparently there is an increasing attention, by producers, enthusiasts and geeks as well, and finally by non-specialist media. Regarding the latter I point out a long article appeared in recent weeks on the American Gizmondo website. If you are looking for a more technical article about the pros and cons of the can, read this post by Jay Brooks .

Glass is therefore doomed? Absolutely not. Compared to the aluminum container a glass bottle offers some less advantage, but a unique benefit compared to cans: it mantle the contents with “noble” connotations. It all therefore depends on the positioning: aluminum probably will always fit successfully for session beers, while the glass will be preferred for special beers, suited for restaurant tables and not for beach parties. So there’s nothing to add to understand why aluminum won’t have success in Italy .