Gruit beer is making a comeback: What exactly is that?

Since the use of hops, gruit beer hasn’t been in production much since the 16^th century. It’s making a comeback and here’s all you need to know.

Gruit beer is making a comeback. The Middle Ages beer was all the rage at one point, but was slowly pushed out by the development of hops. Now, the 16^th-century product is making its way back into homes.

Here’s a look at everything you could possibly need to know about gruit beer and what it means for you. Keep reading, because initially, this may sound disgusting.

(Photo by Jack Taylor/Getty Images)

More from Drinks

• Get Christmas ready with a Merry High Light from Miller High Life
• The Fireball Dragnum Classy Collection is out in time for the holidays
• Coffee mate introduces new Eggo Waffle Coffee Creamer
• Zonin Wines: Perfect for Sipping During the Holidays and Ideal as Gifts
• Coca-Cola shows us a look at the Year 3000 in Vegas

Herbs and mugwort in place of hops

Beer is now mostly made of hops to give it the aromatic taste. However, once upon a time herbs and mugwort were used. The gruit makes the beer unlivable for microorganisms, making your beer a safe space against bacteria.

Because of the range of herbs that can be used, beer will also get an aromatic and sometimes floral scent and taste. Ginger, lavender, and even sea buckthorn have been used in centuries past and they can be used again.

Why gruit beer became extinct

For a long time, gruit beer was illegal to make. Germany passed an act that would see beer created only from water, barley, and hops. As Puritans, the people feared what the gruit could do, as many of the ingredients were considered aphrodisiacs. Of course, as the Puritan movement continued, so did the use of hops and it’s continued to be used since because people didn’t really know much different.

That is until the last few years, when businesses have looked at other ways to make their beer. Gruit beer has started to rise in popularity over the world and will likely continue to do so. After all, don’t you want a little ginger in your beer?

Next: Are Millennials the reason for vegan beer?

Have you tried gruit beer yet? Will you give it a try when you get the chance? Share your thoughts in the comments below.