Finding the perfect flat top beer can for your next brew or collection can be surprisingly tricky. This comprehensive guide will navigate you through the world of flat top cans, exploring their unique features, where to find them, and what to consider when making your purchase.
What are Flat Top Beer Cans?
Unlike the more common dome-topped cans, flat top beer cans boast a unique, flat lid. This design isn't just aesthetically pleasing; it offers several advantages. They often provide a larger surface area for branding and design, allowing breweries to showcase their creativity. Additionally, some argue that the flat top offers a slightly improved drinking experience, although this is largely subjective.
Where Can I Find Flat Top Beer Cans for Sale?
The availability of flat top beer cans varies significantly depending on your location and the popularity of the breweries using this style. Here are some avenues to explore:
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Craft Breweries: Many craft breweries are embracing the unique look and feel of flat top cans. Check your local breweries – their websites or taprooms might be the best places to find their canned offerings. Ask directly – many brewers are happy to discuss their packaging choices!
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Online Retailers: Sites like Amazon and specialty beer retailers may carry limited selections of beers packaged in flat top cans. Search specifically for "flat top beer cans" or the name of a brewery known for using them. However, remember that availability is often limited and changes frequently.
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Specialty Stores: Liquor stores specializing in craft beers or imported brews are more likely to stock beers in less common packaging, including flat top cans.
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Beer Festivals and Events: Attending local beer festivals or events can be a great way to sample different beers and potentially find those packaged in flat top cans.
What are the Advantages of Flat Top Beer Cans?
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Unique Aesthetics: The flat top offers a clean, modern, and often minimalist look that many breweries find appealing. This can be a significant draw for consumers who appreciate unique packaging.
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Larger Branding Area: As mentioned before, the flat top provides ample space for branding and creative designs, offering breweries more opportunities to showcase their brand identity.
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Improved Grip (Possibly): The flat top might provide a slightly better grip compared to a domed top, especially for those with larger hands.
Are There Any Disadvantages to Flat Top Beer Cans?
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Limited Availability: Finding beers packaged in flat top cans might be more challenging than finding those in standard dome-topped cans.
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Cost: The production of flat top cans might be slightly more expensive, potentially impacting the price of the beer itself. This is not always the case, but it’s a possibility.
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Stacking: While not a significant issue, flat tops might not stack as efficiently as dome tops, potentially impacting shipping and storage costs for the brewery.
How Much Do Flat Top Beer Cans Cost?
The price of beers in flat top cans varies dramatically depending on the brewery, the type of beer, and the retailer. You're likely to find a similar price range as other craft beers of comparable size and type. The packaging itself doesn't inherently add a substantial cost to the consumer.
What Types of Beer are Usually Packaged in Flat Top Cans?
There isn't a specific beer style typically packaged in flat top cans. It's more about the brewery's aesthetic choices and branding strategy. You can find a variety of beer styles—IPAs, stouts, lagers—all utilizing this unique packaging.
What is the best way to store flat top beer cans?
Store flat top cans like you would any other canned beer: in a cool, dark, and dry place. Avoid extreme temperatures that can impact the flavor of your beer.
Finding flat top beer cans might require some searching, but the unique look and feel often make it worth the effort. Happy hunting!
