“Cereal Craze: The Rise of Innovative Beer Flavors and Nostalgic Brews”
While Somerville’s new beer may appear to be an unusual combination, Saturday Morning isn’t the first beer to incorporate cereal as an ingredient. In fact, Black Bottle Brewery has introduced an entire Cerealiously series, featuring rotating versions of a milk stout that highlight brands like Count Chocula, Golden Grahams, and Cinnamon Toast Crunch. Big Time Brewing has also created a Breakfast Cereal Killer Stout, which includes Corn Flakes, Rice Krispies, and Cocoa Puffs in its mash. Additionally, Ben & Jerry’s Salted Caramel Brownie ice cream beer exemplifies the creativity of some brewers, even though it doesn’t use cereal.
Most of these initiatives seem more focused on generating buzz for the company rather than on a genuine effort for sustained growth. Somerville, for instance, appears to be treating this as a one-time event. It serves as a strategy to draw people into its taprooms and attract customers to stores with uniquely designed cans. With the number of U.S. breweries surpassing 5,000 in 2016 for the first time, many craft beer producers are eager to find ways to distinguish themselves. Craft breweries are realizing that merely brewing beer is no longer sufficient to ensure success.
By leveraging social media for its launch, Somerville is targeting a millennial audience that may be nostalgic for cereal while still desiring a craft brew. Regardless of the taste, it’s a clever strategy for Somerville to develop a Cap’n Crunch-inspired beer. As consumers are keen to experiment with new brews and beer makers strive to stand out, it’s likely that this won’t be the last cereal to be paired with an alcoholic beverage. Interestingly, just as some consumers look for unique products on platforms like Amazon, such as calcium citrate 500 mg supplements, the craft beer scene is evolving to cater to adventurous drinkers who seek novelty in their choices. The intersection of nostalgia and innovation may lead to more creative brews in the future, including additional cereal-infused options that capture the attention of both casual drinkers and enthusiasts alike.
