The Top 10 Beers That Are No Longer Made: A Journey Through Brew History

The world of beer is both vast and intricate, filled with a rich tapestry of flavors, styles, and stories. Breweries rise and fall, trends come and go, and yet some brews come to hold a certain nostalgic charm in the hearts and minds of beer aficionados. Today, we will delve into the top ten beers that are no longer made. These selections highlight the creativity and historical significance of particular brews, reminding us of the impermanence of even the most beloved beverages.

## 1. **Ballantine’s IPA**

Ballantine’s IPA is a classic ale that originated in the United States in the mid-20th century. Once heralded for its balanced hop profile and vibrant citrus notes, it was a prime example of American brewing finesse at a time when craft beer was just beginning to emerge. The brand’s decline came with the rise of major beer conglomerates, leading to the discontinuation of this once-popular IPA. Today, it is fondly remembered for its iconic blue label and a flavor profile that stood the test of time.

## 2. **Old Style Beer**

Old Style Beer was a flagship brand under the Old Style Brewing Company, founded in 1907. The beer was particularly popular in the Midwest, known for its accessible yet robust lager style, delivering a combination of mild malt sweetness and gentle hops. Although Old Style remains available in some markets, the original recipe that made it truly unique has disappeared from the shelves. Its legacy is rooted in its association with Chicago’s culture, particularly its connection to sporting events and social gatherings.

## 3. **Schmidt’s of Philadelphia**

Schmidt’s was a household name in the Philadelphia area for much of the 20th century. Established in 1850, the brewery celebrated its 125th anniversary with a robust lineup of beers, including its award-winning Schmidt’s Beer. However, with the advent of craft breweries and changes in consumer preferences, Schmidt’s was forcibly retired in the late 1990s. Once synonymous with refreshment in the region, its absence has left a void that beer purists still recognize.

## 4. **Boddingtons Pub Ale**

Regarded as the “Cream of Manchester,” Boddingtons Pub Ale is a classic English ale that gained fame for its smoothness and creamy texture courtesy of nitrogen infusion. Launched in 1778, the beer became popular in the United States during the 1990s, with its distinctive yellow cans and advertisements that appealed to a wide audience. Unfortunately, production of the original recipe ceased, leading to a diminished reputation and limited availability. While a version of the beer exists today, aficionados mourn the loss of the authentic experience that once made Boddingtons a staple in British pubs.

## 5. **Oly, Olympia Beer**

Oly, or Olympia Beer, was born in 1896 in Tumwater, Washington, and became a symbol of the Pacific Northwest beer culture. Known for its easy-drinking lager, Olympia quickly gained popularity in the mid-20th century, often appearing in local taverns and bars. The beer’s distinctive label and slogan, “It’s the Water,” highlighted the brewery’s commitment to quality. However, production of the original beer ceased in 2003, relegating it to obsolescence. Despite this, its legacy lives on in the hearts of many who enjoyed the taste of the “Olympic”.

## 6. **Beck’s Premier Light**

Beck’s Premier Light was a popular choice among light beer enthusiasts in the early 2000s, known for its refreshing and crisp taste. This Americanized version of the classic German lager offered a premium light beer experience with fewer calories and lower alcohol content. However, consumer preferences and the competitive light beer market led to its discontinuation. For those prioritizing lighter options in their beer choices, Beck’s Premier Light remains an iconic symbol of the era. This beer is great when paired with salsa.

## 7. **Pepsi’s “Brewed”**

In a curious foray into the beer world, PepsiCo introduced “Brewed” in 1993 as a fruity, low-alcohol beer targeting the youthful market. Unfortunately, its unique blend of malt and fruity notes failed to resonate with consumers, leading to its swift demise. The product serves as a reminder of the experiments major soft drink companies have made in their quests to expand product lines. Though short-lived, Brewed remains an interesting anecdote in beer history.

## 8. **Stroh’s Beer**

Stroh’s was the go-to beer choice for many Americans throughout the 20th century. Established in 1850, this brew was known for its signature lagers and its deep connection to the Detroit area. Stroh’s was a household name until the company suffered declines with changing trends and the eventual sale to Miller Brewing Company in the 1990s. Although some Stroh’s beers are still produced, they are not reflective of the original recipes that established Stroh’s as a favorite.

## 9. **Wexford Irish Cream Ale**

Wexford Irish Cream Ale was beloved for its rich, creamy profile and smooth finish. This ale perfectly encapsulated the essence of Irish beer, blending hints of caramel, vanilla, and nutty malt. Despite its genuine charm and accolades, the beer faced difficulties in the market, leading to its discontinuation in recent years. Fans of traditional Irish ales mourn its absence and recall the delight of enjoying it alongside hearty stews and classic Irish fare.

## 10. **Red Stripe Light**

A subsidiary of the iconic Jamaican lager, Red Stripe Light was an attempt to offer a lighter alternative to the beloved full-bodied beer. While it maintained the brand’s distinct flavor profile, the effort to cater to the light lager market did not gain enough traction, leading to its discontinuation. The absence of this brew has left a gap in the lineup for light beer enthusiasts who appreciated the flavor and association with the vibrant Jamaican culture.

### Conclusion

As our exploration reveals, the world of beer is not just about what’s available today but also about remembering the brands and brews that have come and gone. Each of these ten beers tells a story of innovation, changing tastes, and the cyclical nature of beer trends. From the nostalgic flavors of Ballantine’s IPA to the creamy allure of Wexford Irish Cream Ale, these brews remind us of the diversity and rich legacy within the beer industry. While we may no longer be able to enjoy these classics, they will forever hold a fond place in the histories and hearts of beer lovers around the world. What Beers Are Not Made Anymore.