My CBC column last Friday, posted online yesterday, took another look at the new AGLC policy prohibiting beer above 11.9%. The column mostly summarizes the research and interpretation I laid out in two posts when it first hit. However, it still might be worth a listen as it offers a good overview of the situation, plus I add some technical information about HOW one can go about making a 55% beer, and what it might mean for flavour.

You can listen to the column here.

In the column I speculate once again that the intended target may have been the cheap malt-based high alcohol energy drinks growing in popularity down south. It was pointed out to me earlier this week that the taxation structure in Canada makes those beverages far less economical. Because their alcohol is so high, they are taxed on volume of per alcohol, meaning they will be subject to similar tax levels as whiskey. The U.S. tax structure is different (and lower). So it is possible that these drinks won’t be marketed here as taxes will price them out of their target market.

Since the CBC column, I have also been informed that the AGLC has accelerated its consultation timelines to try to resolve this problem sooner rather than later, so we may see a revamped policy shortly in the new year. As a third bit of news, sales of 12%+ beer appear to have spiked since the announcement as beer aficionados scramble to scoop up their favourite specialty beer before it is gone.

If any more interesting tidbits on this issue come my way, I will send them yours.