Devin Jacobs
Some beloved brews come and go, but a few leave a lasting impression long after they’re gone. These iconic beers met their untimely end, leaving us with nothing but memories. Curious about which ones you’ll never drink again? Keep reading to discover the stories behind 10 discontinued favorites.
Michelob Ultra Amber
Designed as a richer and darker alternative to the classic Michelob Ultra, the Amber aimed to bring a richer flavor profile while maintaining the brand’s low-carb appeal. However, it failed to find an audience and was phased out due to poor sales and low demand.
Pete’s Wicked Ale
Once a leader in the early craft beer movement, Pete’s Wicked Ale gained national recognition in the 1990s. However, as the industry expanded with more diverse options, the brand failed to keep up and was phased out by the late 2000s.
Coors Batch 19
They crafted Batch 19 to give people a taste of history with a recipe straight from the 1800s. But despite its nostalgic roots, it didn’t quite catch on long-term. It’s proof that nostalgia alone can’t always save a brew in today’s market.
Budweiser’s “American Ale”
When Budweiser launched “American Ale” in 2008, they hoped to tap into the craft beer market. But it was no match for the innovations of smaller, independent breweries. The attempt at a “crafty” brew couldn’t compete with the rising tide of real artisanship and disappeared quickly.
Olympia Beer
Seattle once had a blue-collar charm, and Olympia Beer, brewed in Tumwater, WA, was a two-century-old local favorite. However, Pabst acquired it and moved production to California. The declining sales led to its discontinuation in 2021, and the company shifted its focus to vodka distilling.
Smirnoff Ice Green Apple
Smirnoff Ice Green Apple burst onto the scene in the early 2000s with a fruity and sweet flavor. But the sugary concoction was too much for many beer lovers who preferred more classic options. Even market feedback showed that consumers preferred more traditional malt beverages, which caused its removal from production.
Magnum
As craft beers and premium spirits became more popular, Magnum struggled to keep up. Once celebrated for its affordability and bold flavor, it was increasingly overshadowed by more sophisticated options. Though it had a loyal following, Magnum’s position in the market became harder to sustain.
Red Dog
Launched by Miller Brewing Company in the 1990s, Red Dog was a smooth and easy-drinking lager that stood out due to its unique branding. While it maintained a niche fanbase, shifting consumer preferences led to its quiet discontinuation.
Jax
If you’ve ever been to New Orleans, you’ve likely heard of Jax. For decades, it was a staple of the local scene, brewed with pride in the city since the early 1900s. Unfortunately, as larger breweries dominated the market, Jax faded away, and production ended when the brewery was sold.
The Kimberley Brewery
The Kimberley Brewery, founded in 1832, was Nottinghamshire’s oldest independent brewery. Originally Hardy’s and Hanson’s breweries, they merged in 1930. Later, it was sold to Greene King in 2006. Despite promises, the brewing ceased. The Black Bridge at the former Kimberley Brewery site is a famous historic structure that spans Hardy Street.