Wisconsin grocery stores howling for growlers

Mike Paulus |

Above: A growler in its natural habitat.
Above: A growler in its natural habitat.

The recent explosion in Wisconsin's craft brewing scene has brought about a number of changes in how we consume beer, introducing Wisconsinites to a number of trends that are quickly becoming the new norm. One such change to the frothy landscape is in how we bring the brew home – "growlers" have become a popular vessel to transport draft beer. The reusable glass jugs typically hold 64 fluid ounces, but smaller sizes exist. These returnable bottles allow buyers a bit of a discount when refilling/exchanging them at a tavern or, when possible, right at a brewery. And while you can find growlers at most local grocery stores, the law forbids Sconnie shops from filling them on-site with your beer of choice. So the Wisconsin Grocers Association is pushing the state to allow grocers this ability, creating legislation paving the way for legal in-store taps. This wouldn't allow supermarkets to house a bar, but it would allow beer lovers better access fresh craft brew – via a somewhat more sustainable system. Sound cool? The grocers associating is asking Wisconsinites to voice their opinion on the matter here: FoodAction.net/wisconsingrocers