"In 2005, he (Jim Koch) released what he called the “Beer Drinkers Bill of Rights” to ensure better beer for one and all, and stated, “Beer shall be offered in bottles, not cans, so that no brew is jeopardized with the taste of metal.”
However there is some controversial new developments in the beer community that would point out that cans could just tip the scales the other way:
"The evolution of the can is a fascinating one. As recently as the 1930′s, tin cans could not hold beer without exploding. And then came the advent of the liner. Initially made of vinyl (and fancy polymers today), they sealed the can, and prevented all liquid contact with the metal. Over the years, the technology has improved ten-fold and the fear of tainting our precious bevies with metal has become irrational. In fact, its seeming more and more like the can is the perfect vessel for beer."
The bottle does have one advantage which I do think will sway any beer-drinker according to Jim Attacap:
"One thing that is without dispute is beer temperature. Once you open the can of
beer the container has trouble keeping the liquid cold. Because of the nature of
glass, beer in bottles stays cold longer even after it’s open."
He has written a very interesting article and it is well worth a read.
Here's a summary from Jim's little article:
"So if you are someone who believes in recycling, likes your beer cold, and
believes glass improves the flavor then you want to drink bottled beer. If you are
someone for whom convenience is more important and who drinks beer at any
temperature, then canned beer is the solution for you. If you’re like most people,
you drink canned beer and bottle beer depending on the occasion. You might
take canned beer when you tailgate and drink bottled beer at home. It’s a win-
win situation for everybody."
"So having said all of this should you buy your beer in a glass or can? The official position of BeerNeus is that a bad beer is a bad beer whether it's in a glass or can. And a good beer is good no matter what way you package it."
There you have it. Nice and simple.
Just like any beer should be.
What do you think? Do you prefer bottle or can? Can you taste a difference do you think?
Let me know in the comments!
Cheers!