When Food & Wine examined Google search data by state, the result for Minnesota was a nod to tradition: Hamm’s emerged as the most‑searched and, by implication, the favorite beer among Minnesotans. The finding comes amid a broader look at drinking habits across the United States.
How Much Beer Do Minnesotans Drink?
According to estimates from Beer Info, the average resident over 21 in Minnesota consumes about 28.5 gallons of beer each year – roughly 25 bottles or cans per month. That places the state near the national average of 28.2 gallons per person, indicating that Minnesotans enjoy beer at a typical rate compared with the rest of the country.
Statewide Preference vs. National Trend
While Minnesota’s favorite is Hamm’s, the nationwide leader is Michelob Ultra, followed by Bud Light, Stella Artois, Budweiser and Guinness. The contrast underscores how regional heritage can shape taste even when overall consumption levels are similar.
Hamm’s: A Historic Minnesota Brand
Hamm’s Brewery first opened in St. Paul in 1856, making it one of the oldest continuously operating breweries in the state. Today the brand is owned by Molson Coors and is brewed at the company’s Milwaukee facility, but its roots remain firmly planted in Minnesota’s brewing history.
Local Craft Scene Still Thriving
Even with Hamm’s leading the poll, Minnesota’s craft beer community continues to flourish. Breweries such as Summit, Surly, Bent Paddle, Lift Bridge and many others produce a diverse array of styles that attract both locals and visitors. While these craft labels didn’t top the search‑based ranking, they contribute to the state’s reputation as a vibrant beer destination.
What Neighbors Are Drinking
Food & Wine’s state‑by‑state breakdown shows neighboring Wisconsin favoring Miller Lite, Iowa leaning toward Busch Light, North Dakota choosing Coors Light, and South Dakota picking Keystone Light. The regional differences illustrate how local brand loyalty can vary even within the Upper Midwest.
Why the Ranking Matters
For consumers, the survey offers a snapshot of current preferences. For brewers, it highlights the importance of brand heritage and community connection. Minnesota’s beer lovers can take pride in a historic brand while also supporting the innovative craft breweries that keep the state’s beer culture dynamic.
Whether you reach for a cold Hamm’s after a day on the lake or explore a new tap at a local microbrewery, the state’s beer landscape offers something for every palate.
Original reporting: News Talk 1340 KROC-AM – News and Talk – Rochester News Radio — read the source article.
