Samuel Adams makes illegal beer in 28 states

Samuel Adams just created a new beer so strong it’s illegal in at least 28 states.

The brand has just released its 12th batch of Utopias beer, according to a press release from the company. Utopias, which is barrel aged and released every two years, is described by the company as “a fiery blend of several batches of our extreme beers.” This particular batch was finished with 2,000 pounds of cherries and offers “subtle notes of honey apricot and caramel with rich layers of flavor”.

The reason it’s illegal in 28 states, however, has to do with its alcohol by volume (ABV), which stands at 28%. In comparison, a typical beer contains only 5% alcohol in alcohol, while spirits like vodka, rum, and tequila hover around 40% alcohol in alcohol.

Many states, such as Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Idaho, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, North Carolina Southern Utah, Vermont, and West Virginia still have laws in place, dating back to the Prohibition Age, which capped beer at 5% ABV. However, many have argued that the laws are arbitrary and limit craft beer makers.

Jim Koch, founder and brewer of Samuel Adams, said of the brand’s latest arrival: “We pioneered the barrel aging and blending process of Utopias almost thirty years ago and continue this centuries-old tradition today. Since the introduction of Utopias in 2002, Brewers have explored uncharted territory with each brew, experimenting with different types of aging casks, new flavors and different blending techniques. The result is always special, fiery and worth waiting for. “

For those who want to get their hands on a bottle (legally, of course), you’ll have to pay a little more than your average six-pack. A bottle of the latest batch of Utopias retails for the suggested price of $ 240.