What 5% ABV means for your 12 oz can
The 5% alcohol by volume (ABV) of Coors Banquet means that 5% of the total liquid in the can is pure alcohol. In a standard 12 oz can, this translates to 0.6 fluid ounces of pure alcohol. This figure is significant because it aligns perfectly with what health authorities, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), define as one 'standard drink' in the United States.
Understanding the ABV is essential for responsible consumption and for comparing different types of alcoholic beverages. While 5% ABV is standard for many beers, other variations and styles can differ significantly. For instance, Coors Light has a lower ABV, while many craft beers have a much higher alcohol content.
The story behind 'The Banquet Beer'
Coors Banquet earned its nickname in the late 1800s from thirsty miners who would gather in banquet halls to enjoy the golden lager after a long day's work. The name stuck, and the brand has proudly carried this heritage ever since. This history is a testament to the brand's enduring popularity and its connection to American tradition. The beer's unchanging recipe, which dates back to 1873, further solidifies its classic status.
Key characteristics of Coors Banquet
Coors Banquet is brewed using a specific, time-tested process that includes several defining elements:
- Rocky Mountain Water: Brewed with 100% Rocky Mountain spring water sourced near the Golden, Colorado, brewery, which gives it a unique, crisp quality.
- Moravian Barley: Uses high-country Moravian barley, which is malted in-house to ensure consistency and quality.
- Proprietary Yeast: A special lager yeast strain cultivated for generations is used for the slow, cold fermentation process.
- Classic Lagering: The beer undergoes an extended lagering period, contributing to its smooth, refreshing character.
- Flavor Profile: Offers a balanced taste with a subtle sweetness and malty refreshment, complemented by hints of bread, banana, and pear.
Coors Banquet vs. Other Common Beers
To put Coors Banquet's alcohol content and nutritional information into perspective, here is a comparison with other popular domestic lagers based on a 12 oz serving.
| Feature | Coors Banquet | Coors Light | Budweiser | Miller High Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABV | 5.0% | 4.2% | 5.0% | 4.6% |
| Calories | ~147 | ~102 | ~145 | ~143 |
| Carbohydrates | ~11.7g | ~5g | ~10.6g | ~13.1g |
| Flavor Profile | Malty sweetness, crisp finish | Light, crisp, and refreshing | Full-bodied, toasted notes | Mild, grainy, crisp |
| Standard Drinks (U.S.) | 1 | < 1 | 1 | ~1 |
This table highlights how Coors Banquet fits into the landscape of American lagers. While its alcohol content is higher than Coors Light, it is on par with Budweiser. Its calorie and carb count are also notably higher than its light counterpart, reflecting its more full-bodied flavor.
The Brewing Process Explained
For those curious about how the beer is made, the brewing process is a careful art. The journey begins with the malting of Moravian barley, followed by the mashing process to create a sweet wort. The wort is then boiled with whole-cone hops to impart bitterness and aroma. After cooling, a proprietary lager yeast strain is added for a slow, cold fermentation. This technique is crucial for developing the beer's clean flavor profile. An extended lagering period, a unique characteristic for a mass-market beer, further refines and smooths the final product.
Outbound link to a credible source
For more information on the history and technical aspects of beer brewing, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) is an excellent resource for standard drink definitions.
Conclusion
In summary, a 12 oz can of Coors Banquet contains 5% alcohol by volume (ABV), which places it squarely in the category of a standard U.S. drink. Its distinctive brewing process, reliance on Rocky Mountain water, and use of quality ingredients like Moravian barley create its full-bodied flavor, setting it apart from lighter offerings. This classic American lager, with its rich history, offers a satisfying and straightforward drinking experience. Knowing the alcohol content and other key facts can help consumers make informed decisions, whether enjoying a single can or comparing it with other popular beers.
