The 1970s were a golden age of beer—a time when local breweries thrived, and every region had its go-to favorite.
Whether you were tailgating at a football game, jamming to disco under the mirrored lights, or just kicking back on the porch with friends, chances are you had a can of something distinctively ’70s in hand.
From budget-friendly brews that fueled backyard barbecues to premium imports that made you feel fancy for a night, the beers of the era were as diverse as the decade itself.
Sadly, many of these iconic brews have disappeared from the shelves, victims of changing tastes, corporate consolidations, and shifting markets. But they haven’t been forgotten—not by the loyal drinkers who remember their crisp, refreshing flavors and unmistakable branding.
Join us as we pop the tab on nostalgia and take a bubbly trip through 24 beers that defined the ’70s, each with its own story to tell.
1. Olympia Beer
“It’s the water” was Olympia Beer’s iconic slogan, and for a while, it seemed like that water had magical properties. Brewed in Tumwater, Washington, this beer was a west coast staple.
Olympia’s light, crisp taste made it perfect for barbecues, backyard get-togethers, and late-night jams. It had a certain mystique—was it just beer, or was it the very essence of the Pacific Northwest in a can? The label proudly displayed scenes of idyllic nature, adding to its charm.
Olympia was the kind of beer you’d bring to a beach bonfire or crack open after a long day on the hiking trail.
Unfortunately, the mystique faded over time, and so did Olympia’s prominence. By the late 20th century, the brewery had changed hands multiple times, diluting its once-proud legacy. But for those who remember, it’s still the taste of warm summer evenings and simpler times.
2. Meister Brau Beer
Before craft beer and artisanal labels took over, Meister Brau was the working man’s brew. It came with a no-nonsense attitude and an unmistakable metallic tang that somehow made it all the more endearing.
Originally brewed in Chicago, Meister Brau was an early pioneer of the light beer trend, eventually leading to Miller Lite’s creation. This beer had an aura of affordability and accessibility—a staple at blue-collar taverns and bowling alleys.
It was the type of beer you could picture in the hand of your dad or granddad, accompanied by a plate of pretzels and a spirited debate about the Bears game.
Though it’s long gone, Meister Brau paved the way for every calorie-conscious beer lover who’d rather sip than sprint.
3. Drewrys Beer
Ah, Drewrys Beer, the Canadian-born brew that tried to make it big in the U.S. market. Known for its malty profile and surprisingly low price tag, Drewrys was the beer of choice for college students and thrifty dads alike.
Its iconic slogan, “The Family Beer,” might sound a little strange now, but back then, it was all about togetherness (and sharing a cold one). The beer’s branding was straightforward and unpretentious, much like the beer itself.
It didn’t try to be flashy or trendy, and maybe that was part of its charm. Drewrys was the unsung hero of countless backyard cookouts and fishing trips, providing refreshment without stealing the spotlight.
Though Drewrys faded from shelves, its legacy of affordability and taste lives on in the memories of those who appreciated a good deal. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best beers are the ones that simply get the job done.
4. Billy Beer
Here’s a beer with a presidential twist—Billy Beer was named after none other than Billy Carter, the beer-loving brother of President Jimmy Carter. The marketing gimmick was genius, even if the beer itself wasn’t particularly remarkable.
Billy Beer cans became collector’s items almost overnight, with people convinced they’d struck gold. Spoiler: they hadn’t.
The beer was brewed by the Falls City Brewing Company, and while it was marketed as “the beer to drink with your buddies,” reviews at the time were mixed at best. Some said it was watery; others claimed it had a peculiar aftertaste.
But what Billy Beer lacked in flavor, it made up for in cultural significance. It became a symbol of 70s kitsch, a quirky nod to a time when beer and politics collided in the most unusual way.
5. Hamm’s Beer
The land of sky-blue waters! Hamm’s was a beer that transported you to a pristine Minnesota lake with every sip. Or at least, that was the promise.
With its catchy jingle and cartoon bear mascot, Hamm’s was the epitome of wholesome branding. The beer itself? Light, smooth, and perfect for the everyday drinker. It was affordable and approachable, making it a mainstay in fridges across America.
Hamm’s also had an uncanny knack for making you feel like you were part of something larger—a community of Hamm’s lovers who appreciated its clean, refreshing taste.
While it’s still brewed today in limited quantities, Hamm’s glory days are a relic of the past, when TV jingles ruled the airwaves.
6. Grain Belt Beer
For Minnesotans, Grain Belt wasn’t just beer; it was a way of life. Brewed in Minneapolis, this lager was known for its distinctive “Friendly Beer” tagline. With a malty backbone and just enough hops to keep things interesting, Grain Belt was a beer you could count on.
It was the kind of brew that graced family barbecues, fishing trips, and post-softball celebrations. The bottle design, with its vintage-inspired script, added to its charm. Grain Belt wasn’t just a drink; it was a symbol of regional pride.
Though it’s still around today in a different form, the 70s version had a charm that can’t be replicated. It’s a beer that’s as much about the memories as it is about the taste—nostalgia in a bottle, anyone?
7. Schaefer Beer
“The one beer to have when you’re having more than one.” Schaefer’s slogan wasn’t just clever; it was a lifestyle choice. This beer was brewed with the intention of being drinkable—like, really drinkable. Its smooth, light flavor made it an easy choice for any occasion.
Whether you were at a baseball game, a picnic, or your uncle’s garage party, Schaefer was always a welcome guest. Its affordability and ubiquity made it a staple for the masses, while its distinctive red and white label ensured it stood out on store shelves.
While Schaefer hasn’t completely disappeared, its heyday as a 70s beer giant is long gone. Today, it’s more of a cult classic, beloved by those who remember its golden era.
8. National Bohemian (Natty Boh)
Baltimore’s beloved brew, National Bohemian—better known as Natty Boh—was a 70s icon. With its one-eyed mustachioed mascot, this beer had personality for days. Natty Boh was the go-to beer for crab feasts and Orioles games, a true Maryland classic.
Its crisp, clean taste paired perfectly with the salty sweetness of steamed crabs, making it a staple of Chesapeake Bay culture. The beer’s quirky mascot and catchy slogans, like “Oh boy, what a beer!”, added to its charm.
Though it’s still produced today in limited areas, its golden era remains the 70s, when you couldn’t go to a bar in Baltimore without seeing that iconic logo staring back at you.
9. Lowenbrau
“Here’s to good friends…” The Lowenbrau jingle was unforgettable, as was its slightly upscale vibe. Imported from Germany, Lowenbrau was marketed as the beer for classy occasions—or at least for those who wanted to feel a little fancy.
It had a richer taste than your average American lager, making it a standout in the 70s beer landscape. Whether you were hosting a dinner party or celebrating a promotion, Lowenbrau was the beer you reached for when you wanted to make an impression.
The green bottle and elegant label made it feel like a treat, even if it wasn’t the priciest option on the shelf.
10. Blitz Weinhard Beer
Portland’s pride and joy, Blitz Weinhard Beer, was a mainstay in the Pacific Northwest. Its creamy, smooth flavor made it a hit with locals, and its history as one of Oregon’s oldest breweries added to its allure.
Blitz Weinhard wasn’t just a beer; it was a piece of Portland’s cultural fabric. Whether you were enjoying it at a neighborhood pub or a family barbecue, it had a way of bringing people together. The brewery itself was a landmark, and its closure in the 90s marked the end of an era.
In many ways, it’s the quintessential 70s beer—simple, reliable, and unforgettable.
11. Ballantine XXX Ale
Brewed by the Ballantine Brewing Company, this ale boasted a rich, malty character balanced with a touch of hoppy bitterness. Its golden amber hue and distinctive taste made it stand out in the sea of lighter beers popular in the 70s.
What really set it apart, though, was its reputation as a beer with a heritage—one that stretched back decades before the 70s craze.
It had a loyal fan base that appreciated its complexity, a beer that you savored rather than chugged. While it eventually fell out of favor as lighter beers dominated the market, Ballantine XXX Ale remains a cherished memory for those who appreciated its sophisticated flavor and old-school charm.
12. Falls City Beer
Falls City Beer was a blue-collar favorite that hailed from Louisville, Kentucky. Known for its affordability and easy-drinking nature, this beer was the go-to choice for many working-class folks.
Its slogan, “The Beer That Satisfies,” was simple but effective, reflecting the straightforward, no-frills attitude of the brand. Falls City was the kind of beer you’d find in lunch pails, on fishing boats, or sitting on the porch after a long day of work.
It even gained some fame as the original brewer of Billy Beer before falling into obscurity. While it’s been revived in recent years, the Falls City of the 70s has a nostalgic quality that’s hard to replicate.
13. Lucky Lager
Lucky Lager was the beer that made you feel like you’d hit the jackpot, even if it was just a cheap six-pack. Known for its distinctive red-and-white label and the puzzles printed on the inside of its bottle caps, Lucky Lager turned every drink into a fun little game.
Brewed on the West Coast, it had a crisp, clean taste that appealed to a wide audience. It wasn’t fancy, but it didn’t need to be.
Lucky Lager was the kind of beer you’d bring to a tailgate or enjoy on a lazy summer afternoon. It was approachable, affordable, and full of character—kind of like the people who drank it.
14. Pabst Blue Ribbon
Pabst Blue Ribbon, or simply PBR, was the quintessential everyman’s beer in the 70s. Its light, crisp taste and iconic blue ribbon logo made it a household name.
Whether you were lounging in a dive bar, grilling in your backyard, or watching the big game, PBR was a reliable companion. It wasn’t fancy or pretentious, but that’s exactly what made it so beloved.
While PBR saw a decline in popularity for a while, it’s since had a resurgence as a favorite among hipsters and craft beer enthusiasts looking for a nostalgic throwback.
15. Rheingold
Rheingold Beer was a New York City classic that ruled the boroughs in the 70s. Its catchy advertising campaigns, including the iconic Miss Rheingold contest, made it a household name.
It was the beer of choice for Yankees fans and subway commuters alike, offering a crisp, straightforward taste that paired perfectly with a hot dog or a slice of pizza. Its branding was as bold as its flavor, with ads that proudly proclaimed it the beer “for the dry crowd.”
While Rheingold eventually succumbed to competition from larger national brands, its legacy lives on in the hearts of New Yorkers who still remember its heyday.
16. Goebel Beer
Goebel Beer was Detroit’s budget-friendly gem, offering a quality lager at an unbeatable price. Known for its crisp, slightly bitter taste, Goebel was a staple at gatherings where quantity mattered as much as quality.
It was the beer of choice for poker nights, barbecues, and tailgates, embodying the spirit of blue-collar Detroit. While it wasn’t flashy, it delivered on what mattered most: an honest, refreshing brew.
Goebel’s affordability made it a hit during the 70s economic crunch, but as bigger brands took over, its presence dwindled.
17. Red White & Blue
Red, White & Blue Beer, affectionately known as RWB, embraced Americana in every sense. Brewed by Pabst, it was the ultimate patriotic beer, with its star-spangled branding and light, easy-drinking flavor.
It was the kind of beer you’d bring to a Fourth of July picnic, crack open at a baseball game, or enjoy during a fireworks display. RWB wasn’t trying to compete with premium brews—it was simple, affordable, and quintessentially American.
While it’s no longer around, Red, White & Blue Beer remains a nostalgic icon for those who remember pairing it with a hot dog and a dose of national pride.
18. Double Diamond
Imported from England, Double Diamond was the beer that introduced many Americans to the world of ales. It had a rich, malty flavor with a hint of caramel, setting it apart from the lighter lagers that dominated the market.
Double Diamond’s sleek bottle and bold branding gave it a distinctive look that caught the eye of beer enthusiasts seeking something new. It was often enjoyed in pubs or paired with hearty meals, making it a favorite among those with a taste for the finer things.
19. Private Stock
Private Stock was marketed as a premium beer for those who wanted something a little more refined. Its distinctive green bottle and elegant script made it feel like a step up from the average six-pack.
Brewed by the National Brewing Company, it had a smooth, slightly malty flavor that appealed to beer drinkers looking for quality without breaking the bank. It was often associated with special occasions or a night out with friends, making it a popular choice in the 70s.
While Private Stock eventually disappeared from shelves, it left behind fond memories of its sophisticated charm.
20. Falstaff Beer
Falstaff Beer was a heavyweight in the 70s beer world, known for its bold flavor and rich history. It was one of the largest beer brands in the United States at its peak, with a name that evoked Shakespearean charm.
Falstaff’s full-bodied lager was a favorite among those who wanted more than a light brew, and it had a loyal following among older generations who appreciated its hearty character.
Despite its popularity, Falstaff struggled to keep up with changing tastes and corporate consolidations. By the 80s, it began to fade, but for those who loved it, Falstaff remains a symbol of a beer that stood proudly for quality and tradition.
21. Stroh’s Bohemian Style Beer
Stroh’s Bohemian Style Beer was a true Detroit original, brewed with a unique fire-brewing process that gave it a distinctive malty depth.
This beer was a working-class favorite, appreciated for its smooth flavor and rich heritage. Stroh’s wasn’t just a beer; it was a piece of the city’s identity, proudly brewed by the Stroh family for generations.
In the 70s, it was the beer of choice for those who wanted a flavorful lager that didn’t break the bank. While the brand has changed hands over the years, Stroh’s legacy endures as a reminder of Detroit’s resilience and love for a good brew.
22. Pearl Beer
For Texans, Pearl Beer was practically a household name in the 70s. Brewed in San Antonio, Pearl was known for its distinctive pearl-shaped logo and its affordable, approachable flavor. It was light, crisp, and easy to drink, making it a staple at everything from backyard barbecues to honky-tonk dance halls.
The Pearl Brewery had a rich history that Texans were proud of, and the beer was often seen as a point of regional pride. It even had a catchy jingle, “Pearl is for folks,” which perfectly encapsulated its everyman appeal.
While Pearl Beer still exists in a limited capacity, it’s a shadow of its former self. For those who grew up in Texas in the 70s, cracking open a Pearl was more than just having a beer—it was a connection to home.
23. Schlitz
“The beer that made Milwaukee famous” wasn’t just a catchy slogan; it was a badge of honor for Schlitz. This beer dominated the market during its heyday, thanks to its smooth flavor and impeccable branding.
Schlitz was perfect for those who wanted a reliable brew that delivered time after time. Whether you were at a baseball game or relaxing in your backyard, Schlitz was there to keep you refreshed.
Unfortunately, a recipe change in the 70s caused a backlash, leading to a decline in sales. Despite this misstep, Schlitz retains a cult following and remains a symbol of Milwaukee’s proud brewing heritage.
24. Burger Beer
Burger Beer was Cincinnati’s pride and joy in the 70s, brewed by the Burger Brewing Company. Its tagline, “It’s Burger time!” reflected its status as a go-to beer for any occasion.
Light, refreshing, and affordable, Burger Beer was a staple at Reds games, backyard cookouts, and friendly card games. It had a clean, crisp taste that made it easy to drink, and its unpretentious charm endeared it to fans across the Midwest.
While Burger Beer eventually faded from the shelves, it’s still remembered fondly as a classic Cincinnati brew that brought people together for good times and great memories.
Leave a comment