A label is the first thing that is noticed on a bottle of beer, and unique designs are often used as a way to make the brands stand out. The artistry, however, can be truly impressive, and for this reason label collecting is becoming an increasingly popular hobby. In addition to collectible beer labels, custom labels are becoming a sought after item, with personalized labels being used for everything from bottled home brew to unique wedding gifts. Where to find interesting beer labels is the question that most often occurs when it comes to label collecting, but they may not be as difficult to find as you may think.
Image Copyright Big Buck Brewery
Where to Find Beer Labels
Bars and pubs are obviously a good place to start for the beginner collector of beer bottle labels, as are liquor stores, as these offer a wide selection of foreign and domestic beers. However, the best place to find unique and interesting beer labels is often smaller, locally owned establishments.
Many local owners carry an inventory that is more select and unique, as they use this as a means to draw customers. Additionally, it is not uncommon to find special or unique brands in local bars that are not found elsewhere. This is especially true if visiting an area known for its selection of local beers. The Grim Reaper, for example, is seen on the label of Reaper Ale in New Orleans, while a majestic buck graces the label of Big Buck Beer in Michigan.
Foreign Beer Labels
Foreign beers often include more stylized emblems and images than domestic beers, with Oktoberfest making German beer labels some of the most easily recognized. While serving girls are a common theme on German beer labels, from the famous St. Pauli Girl to the image found on the label of Bock Beer, some extremely well rendered artwork can be found on many other brands. Radford Ale comes with a gorgeous depiction of three black horses, while a coat of arms is common a number of brands, including Konig Ludwig and Amstel. Germany is not alone in unique beers or labels, however, as many other countries offer an array of fascinating images. Belgium, for example, produces over 400 types of beer, some of which are difficult to find anywhere outside the country.
Konig Ludwig Beer Label
In addition to the artwork, the beer name is another aspect that makes collecting the beer labels of the world a popular activity. Creative names like “Blackened Voodoo” in New Orleans, “Skull Splitter” from Scotland, and “Wychcraft” found in England add to the appeal of beer labels. Specialty beers for events such as Oktoberfest often have collectible labels, which are available for only a limited time.
Custom Beer Labels
Custom beer labels, on the other hand, have also become a popular trend in recent years, both as a final touch to home brewing and as party favors and personalized gifts. There are a number of businesses that offer the creation of custom labels, with many found online. Creation can be done either with templates, or with personal artwork, monograms or photos. Blank labels can also be purchased for creating labels at home, with many companies allowing purchases in quantities as small as 10. As for the beer in the bottle, if home brewing is not an option, many label makers also supply their own special beers in addition to the labels.
Beer Labels Worth Collecting
Beer labels are both interesting and collectible, as the labels of many foreign and domestic beers often include wonderful artwork. Foreign labels are especially fascinating, as stylized images can range from
Image Copyright Blue Beer Labels
coats of arms, beautiful animal depictions, and elaborate embellishments. Beer names add to the appeal of the labels, with oddities such as Blackened Voodoo and Wychcraft often being as interesting as the art itself. Local bars may be one of the best places to find unique beer labels, as many offer unique selections in an effort to draw customers. Custom beer labels have also become popular, both with home brewing and as personalized gifts, and they are even being given at weddings. The Internet is perhaps the easiest way to find custom beer label makers, and some vendors even provide their own special beer with the purchase.
Beer labels are constantly changing, and many become unavailable as new designs are added. This can make beer label collecting a lifelong hobby.