The Story Behind Bud Select
Budweiser Select was introduced nationwide by Anheuser-Busch in 2005, positioning itself as a premium light beer for those who wanted a robust taste without the high calories of a regular lager. The beer was an immediate success, ranking as one of the best-selling new food and beverage brands in its inaugural year. However, its widespread availability fluctuated over the years, and for a period, it was primarily distributed in its home market of St. Louis and a few select surrounding areas.
Following a resurgence in the popularity of light beers, Anheuser-Busch announced a nationwide relaunch of Budweiser Select in March 2021. This move was a direct response to growing consumer demand for lower-calorie beer options that don't compromise on flavor. The relaunch aimed to appeal to "Bud loyalists" and health-conscious consumers alike, reintroducing the brew to a new generation of drinkers.
Ingredients and Brewing Process
Budweiser Select is brewed with a careful selection of ingredients to achieve its distinctive profile, which balances a richer malt character with a lighter body.
The key ingredients include:
- Barley Malt: A blend of two-row and roasted specialty malts gives the beer its rich golden color and a subtle toasted malt flavor.
- Rice: Fresh, verdant rice is used to ensure a crisp taste and a smooth finish, a staple in many Anheuser-Busch lagers.
- Hops: A blend of hand-selected American and Bavarian hops provides a balanced flavor and a mild, refreshing aroma.
- Water: The filtered and tested water is a critical component, maintaining the consistency and purity of the brew.
The brewing process for Bud Select is also notable. It reportedly spends approximately twice as long in the brewhouse as regular beers, which helps to reduce the carbohydrate and calorie content naturally during fermentation. This careful process is what allows the beer to maintain its full flavor while achieving a lower calorie count.
Bud Select vs. Other Popular Beers
Understanding where Bud Select fits within the market often involves comparing it to its siblings and other popular light beers. Its primary goal is to offer a more flavorful, less watery experience than many standard light lagers, while still being a lighter alternative to a full-calorie brew like Budweiser.
| Feature | Bud Select | Bud Light | Bud Select 55 (Discontinued) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories (per 12oz) | 99 | 110 | 55 |
| Carbohydrates (per 12oz) | 3.1g | ~6.6g | 0g |
| ABV | 4.3% | 4.2% | 2.4% |
| Flavor Profile | Fuller, more robust, and less crisp than Bud Light, with a clean finish. | Crisper and lighter than Bud Select. | Extremely light and thin, lacking substantial flavor. |
Why Choose Bud Select?
For many beer enthusiasts, Bud Select occupies a unique and valuable niche in the light beer market. Its distinct flavor profile sets it apart from the more generic-tasting alternatives. The use of specialty malts provides a depth of character often missing in other low-calorie lagers, giving it a subtle complexity that appeals to those who enjoy a more robust taste. It’s also an excellent choice for individuals who are watching their calorie and carbohydrate intake but don’t want to sacrifice the pleasure of a full-bodied beer. The fact that it maintains a 4.3% ABV, on par with many standard light beers, means it doesn't skimp on the alcohol content, providing a satisfying experience. The successful 2021 relaunch is a testament to its enduring appeal and the loyal following it has cultivated over the years.
Conclusion
What is Bud Select beer? At its core, it is a well-crafted light lager that defies the common perception that low-calorie beers must also be low on flavor. By combining quality ingredients and an extended brewing process, Anheuser-Busch created a brew that delivers a fuller, more satisfying taste and a clean finish, all while keeping calories and carbs in check. Whether you are a long-time "Bud loyalist" or a new consumer seeking a flavorful but lighter beer option, Bud Select is a brew that successfully bridges the gap between full-bodied taste and a lighter drinking experience. Its renewed national availability in 2021 highlights its relevance in a market that continues to value both flavor and moderation. For more on the brand's history and other brews, you can visit the official Anheuser-Busch website.
