A bill recently proposed in the Ohio Statehouse could raise the current state limit on the proof allowed in beer from 12 to 21 percent.
Brad Clark, head brewer at Jackie O’s Pub and Brewery, supports the legislation, and said if the bill passed, he would brew a product with higher than 12 percent alcohol.
“We’re definitely one of the brewers in the state people would be looking for something to come from us because of our experimental nature,” Clark said. “I’ve made plenty of beers that were 12 percent, but I can’t go above that.”
House Bill 391 was recently proposed by Rep. Dan Ramos, D-Lorain. If passed, selling beer with an alcohol percentage between 12 and 21 would be first allowed a year after the bill becomes law. Brewing of those beers, however, could begin immediately. Any of the high-content brews would not be permitted to have caffeine or other stimulants included.
Though Ohio Sen. Lou Gentile, D-Steubenville, said he has not had any of his constituents approach him on the bill, he expressed concern the minority-backed bill could get bogged down by partisanship.
“Generally, if it seems to get some traction in the House, they will have a couple hearings,” Gentile said. “A lot of the Democratic bills are often proposed, have one hearing and don’t go much further than that. Oftentimes, the majority only allows for one hearing of minority-sponsored bills, and it’s not often that you see much beyond that.”
If the bill does pass, Athens Police Chief Tom Pyle said he doesn’t believe it will affect rowdiness in Athens.
“I mean anything is possible, but I don’t think people drink for volume. I think they drink for effect,” Pyle said. “I think ultimately, people desire a certain effect, whether it’s the so-called ‘buzz’ or getting plastered drunk. It’s not that they’re like, ‘Hey, I’m drinking 24 beers tonight because I want a belly full of beer.’ ”
Clark said those selling beer could benefit from this bill’s potential passage.
“It just adds a layer of depth and complexity to the beer,” Clark said. “It blends wine with beer with spirits, and brings a fruitiness and warming character.”
He added these high-alcohol content brews sell well, and that it is not uncommon for a 20 oz. bottle to cost $10 to $12.
“There’s a lure to it because it’s so strong,” Clark said. “(These are) highly specialty products. A consumer is driven to it because of it’s somewhat rare.
There’s a whole culture behind this high ABV (alcohol by volume) thing.”
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