What Is a Growler and Why You Should Be Using One

What Is a Beer Growler?

A beer growler is a reusable, refillable container—typically made of glass or plastic—used to carry draft beer from a bar, brewery, or bottle shop to your home. Most growlers hold either 64oz (1.89L) or 32oz (946ml) of fresh, delicious beer, poured straight from the tap.

At Grunting Growler in Glasgow’s West End, these containers are more than just functional—they’re part of our identity.

Where Did the Term “Growler” Come From?

The word growler dates back to the 1800s, when people used metal pails to carry beer home from the pub. As the carbon dioxide escaped from the lids, they made a low rumbling or "growling" noise. The name stuck, and today’s growlers are a modern take on this old-school practice.

Why You Should Be Using a Growler in 2025

1. Fresh Draft Beer at Home

Growlers let you enjoy draft beer as it’s meant to be tasted—fresh from the tap. When sealed and stored properly, the beer stays carbonated and flavourful for several days.

2. Reusable & Eco-Friendly

Using a refillable beer container drastically reduces packaging waste. Ditch the single-use cans and bottles and choose a more sustainable way to enjoy your favourite beer.

3. Access to Limited & Exclusive Beers

Many small-batch and draught-only beers never get canned or bottled. At Grunting Growler, we regularly tap limited-release kegs that are only available for on-site pours or growler fills.

4. Better Value Per Pint

Growler fills are often more cost-effective than buying multiple cans or bottles. You get more beer for your money—and less clutter in your recycling bin.

5. It’s a Bit of a Flex

There’s something undeniably cool about walking into a gathering with a growler full of rare, tap-only beer. It shows you know your stuff—and where to find the good stuff in Glasgow.

How to Clean and Use a Beer Growler

• Rinse with hot water immediately after use

• Avoid using soap (it can affect the flavour)

• Let it air dry upside down

• Bring it back clean for your next fill

We offer a range of plastic growlers for sale in-store—lightweight, reusable, and perfect for fridge storage or taking on the go.

Growler FAQs

How long does beer stay fresh in a growler?

If sealed tightly and kept cold, beer can stay fresh in a growler for up to 3–5 days. Once opened, it’s best enjoyed within 24 hours.

Can I reuse my plastic growler?

Absolutely! Plastic growlers are reusable. Just be sure to rinse them with hot water immediately after use and allow them to fully air dry.

Do I need to bring a growler to get a fill?

You can bring your own clean growler, or buy one from us in-store. We offer 1-litre and 2-litre plastic growlers ready to be filled.

What beers can I get in a growler?

We rotate our taps weekly and often feature exclusive beers that are only available on draught. Check our Instagram or pop in to see what’s pouring.

Can I take growler beer to events or BYOB places?

Yes—growlers are perfect for parties, picnics, BBQs, or BYOB venues. Just make sure the venue allows outside alcohol.

Or view our live tap list here: https://gruntinggrowler.com/collections/draft-beer-on-tap

Looking for Growler Beer in Glasgow’s West End?

Swing by Grunting Growler in the West End to see what we’ve got on tap. Whether you’re a seasoned growler user or curious to try for the first time, we’ve got something fresh waiting for you.