If you’ve ever left a beer in the freezer a bit too long, you’ve probably discovered the answer to the question, “Does beer freeze?” The short answer is: Yes, beer does freeze.
But there’s a bit more to it than that. From what temperature beer freezes to the effects of freezing beer in cans or bottles, there are a few things every beer drinker should know to avoid a frosty disaster. We’ll also touch on the craft beer approach to freezing beer mugs—and why it might be doing more harm than good to your brew.
At What Temperature Does Beer Freeze?
The freezing point of beer is a bit different than water, which freezes at 32°F (0°C). The exact freezing point of beer depends on the alcohol content (ABV). The higher the ABV, the lower the freezing point. On average, most beers freeze between 28°F (-2°C) and 25°F (-4°C).
Here’s a rough guide for common beer types:
- Light Lagers/Pilsners (4-5% ABV): Freeze at around 28°F (-2°C)
- IPAs and Pale Ales (5-7% ABV): Freeze closer to 27°F (-3°C)
- Stouts and Porters (7-9% ABV): Freeze around 25°F (-4°C)
- Imperial/Strong Beers (10%+ ABV): Freeze even lower, sometimes below 23°F (-5°C)
What Happens if You Freeze Beer in a Can or Bottle?
We’ve all been there—throwing a few beers in the freezer to cool them quickly, only to forget about them until it’s too late. So what happens when beer freezes in a can or bottle?
Freezing Beer in Cans
If a can of beer freezes, the liquid inside expands, and this can cause the can to bulge or even burst. Cans are designed to hold pressurized liquid, so when that liquid freezes and expands, it can lead to a pretty messy explosion. Plus, when the beer thaws, you’ll notice that it might taste flat and lack the fresh, crisp carbonation you expect.
Freezing Beer in Bottles
Freezing beer in glass bottles presents a different hazard. Much like cans, the beer inside expands as it freezes. However, glass is less flexible than aluminum, meaning the bottle is much more likely to crack or shatter. In addition to losing your beer, you’re left with a dangerous mix of glass shards and frozen beer—definitely not something you want to clean up.
Can You Safely Thaw Frozen Beer?
If you catch your beer before the can or bottle has burst, you can technically thaw it out and drink it—but it probably won’t taste the same. Freezing beer can disrupt its carbonation, meaning the beer will taste flat and may have lost some of its original flavor. The process of freezing also causes the water in the beer to separate from the alcohol, which can affect the texture and mouthfeel of the brew.
In short, it’s not ideal, and the best way to enjoy your beer is to avoid freezing it in the first place!
What About Freezing Beer Mugs?
While many bars and restaurants serve beer in frosty, ice-cold mugs, this is actually a bit of a disservice to the beer itself—especially when it comes to craft beer. Freezing beer mugs may seem like a fun way to keep your drink cold, but it can actually dull the flavors and aromas that make craft beer so enjoyable.
Why You Shouldn’t Freeze Mugs for Craft Beer
Craft beer is brewed with a lot of attention to detail, from the balance of hops to the malts used in the process. Freezing mugs introduces ice crystals to the beer, which can shock the beer and prevent it from properly releasing its flavors. The cold also numbs your taste buds, making it harder to fully appreciate the complex notes in a well-crafted IPA, stout, or Belgian ale.
Frozen mugs are best left for lighter, mass-produced beers where flavor isn’t the star of the show. If you’re sipping on a premium craft brew, stick to a room-temperature glass. Your taste buds will thank you!
Can You Freeze Beer on Purpose?
While freezing beer by accident is never fun, some people do intentionally freeze beer to make a stronger drink. Eisbock is a type of beer made by freezing a batch of beer and then removing the ice, which increases the concentration of alcohol. This technique was developed in Germany and results in a strong, bold flavor profile. However, this is a carefully controlled process and not something you should try at home without some serious brewing know-how.
Conclusion: Keep Your Beer Cool, But Not Frozen
So, does beer freeze? Absolutely. While it’s easy to accidentally freeze beer when you’re trying to cool it quickly, it’s best to avoid freezing your favorite brew. Whether it’s in a can, bottle, or mug, freezing beer can ruin the flavors, dull the carbonation, and in some cases, make a big mess.
For the best beer experience, keep your drinks in the fridge (at around 38°F or 3°C) and skip the frozen mug—especially if you’re sipping on a craft brew that deserves to be savored at the perfect temperature.