Is Bigger Always Better? Craft Beer Can Size Debate

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At Western Herd, we’re always thinking about the best way to get our beers from our brewhouse to your glass. One of the biggest considerations is can size — how much beer is just the right amount? It’s a question that’s been making waves in beer circles recently, especially after Tony Rehagen of Bloomberg raised a thoughtful point this month. In his piece on top-shelf beer culture, he asks: “Do I really want 19 ounces (560ml) of flavor-packed, boozier IPA?”

It’s a fair question — and one we hear echoed from craft beer fans more and more. On the one hand, customers understandably want value for money. Bigger cans, more liquid, right? But on the other hand, with many modern IPAs, stouts, and Belgian-inspired ales packing serious flavour and often nudging past 7% ABV, does a bigger can actually give you too much of a good thing?

The Irish Love of a Pint… But Is It Always Best?

Here in Ireland, we’re a nation known for our love of the pint — and what’s not to love? There’s nothing quite like the sight of a full glass brimming over at the local. But while a pint of stout or lager suits the setting perfectly, when it comes to craft beers that are richer, stronger, and layered with complexity, that same volume isn’t always the ideal way to experience them.

These beers are brewed to be savoured, not raced through. They’re full of ingredients that deliver punchy flavours and aromas, with higher alcohol levels that need time for your palate (and your body!) to appreciate. Bigger cans or glasses can sometimes work against that, leaving your beer warm, flat, and not showing its best side by the end.

A Case for Matching Can Size to Style

So what’s the sweet spot? Here’s a proposal we’ve been mulling over:

• 1 pint (568ml) cans (or the equivalent) could suit lighter, easy-drinking beers — think crisp lagers or gentle session ales at 4.5% ABV or below. These beers are designed for refreshment, and a larger can might be just right on a sunny day or at a barbecue.
• For IPAs, strong ales, barrel aged imperial stouts, and Belgian styles (typically 6-8% ABV or higher), smaller cans might actually enhance the drinking experience. The higher ABV and more complex ingredients in these brews deserve to be enjoyed at a pace that lets the flavours shine — without leaving you with a flat, lukewarm final sip.

At Western Herd, we currently package most of our beers in 440ml cans — a size that strikes a balance between satisfying pour and manageable strength. But we’re asking ourselves (and you!): should we consider offering our bigger, bolder beers in smaller 330ml cans at a higher price point? Would that let drinkers get the best of both worlds — a premium experience without overdoing it?

The Verdict?

In craft beer, does less mean more? Sometimes, yes. The right can size isn’t just about quantity — it’s about making sure each sip is as good as the first. After all, even us pint-loving Irish might admit that some beers are better tasted in moderation than tackled by the pint.

We’d love to hear what you think. Would you prefer our bigger beers in smaller cans? Let us know on our social channels!