2018 cheap beer thread - under $2/can - options, sales, reviews and discussion

[ExtraSlow]

Well, it's hot out, and you need a beer. Last year's thread was full of laughs, so let's do this again.

Last year's thread for reference or reminiscing: https://forums.beyond.ca/threads/404204-2017-cheap-beer-thread-reviews-sales-and-discussion

Today's contenders are from Pacific Western Brewing in beautiful Prince George BC.
Canterbury Dark Mild for $9.90. Quite mild, like a Big Rock Trad taste, but less of it. Should pair well with avoiding yard work.
Cariboo Blonde for $9.29 per six-pack. Tastes like a clone of Village Blonde, which is a very good thing. When I was a young lad, I was told to marry a girl from a rural area, because she would be used to hard work, and probably take better care of you and your things. This beer tastes like a fancy city girl, but costs like someone who can't do any better. What a combination.

81852

Can't quite get these two six packs for a twenty dollar bill due to the deposit, but a twenty and two quarters and you are on your way.

[killramos]

Dunno if you looked into this during round one. But what about the economics of making your own?

[ExtraSlow]

There's a few home brewers on beyond, would be cool if they chimed in.

[killramos]

I’m pretty sure it’s way cheaper, the issue is whether or not it’s any good. The swill I made with a buddy last year was rank. But he also put no effort into the fermentation process so I wasn’t really surprised.

[Sentry]

Where'd you pick those up? Also, thread theme song again:

BB8z08_8uhM

[ExtraSlow]

Where'd you pick those up? Got them at "Liquor Lane" on 4th street. Small shop that doesn't have a large selection, but always has something interesting.

[ExtraSlow]

Coop classic red ale $6.99/6pack. Bought a flat.

[Sentry]

Coop classic red ale $6.99/6pack. Bought a flat.
Guess I know what I'm getting tonight. :rofl:

[btimbit]

Oooh I'll have to try that. Not a fan of their lager but the Pilsner is alright, and I generally love Red Ale

My go too for cheap is still Brewhouse and/or PBR

[ExtraSlow]

Local brewery, Half Hitch from Cochrane, on sale at co-op.
$10.99 for a six-pack for both "fire red" and "papa bear ale"

Very tasty.

[MR2-3SGTE]

Has the minhas brewery been mentioned in previous threads? They often have dollar beer on special. Last time I got sunshine lager for dollar each. Normally they're almost 2 bucks

[Brent.ff]

Half hitch Farmers Daughter (in addition to above) IPA 6 pack was down to $10 at Coop in Shawnnesy. Pretty dope beer for 30% off

[Sentry]

The coop red I got Friday was excellent. Went for another 6 pack today and it was all gone, so trying their pils today. $8.79 or something.

[ExtraSlow]

Has the minhas brewery been mentioned in previous threads? They often have dollar beer on special. Last time I got sunshine lager for dollar each. Normally they're almost 2 bucks which Minhas? Post a pic and description please.

- - - Updated - - -


The coop red I got Friday was excellent. Went for another 6 pack today and it was all gone, so trying their pils today. $8.79 or something.

I need a couple flats of this stuff. Very good value.

[bulaian]

Coop in Panorama has at least 10 flats of the red and 5 of the IPA that is also on sale for $6.99

[The_Penguin]

The coop red I got Friday was excellent. Went for another 6 pack today and it was all gone, so trying their pils today. $8.79 or something.

AGD was my go-to cheap beer, but just tried a CO-OP Red (or 3) pretty good for $6.99 for 6.

[MR2-3SGTE]

82036
which Minhas? Post a pic and description please.

The one off McKnight in the NE. I'm not a big beer enthusiast so my description wouldn't hold much value, but I've been told it's somewhat similar to Corona. For me personally, beer is just beer and always has been.

[Brent.ff]

Ugh sunshine lager is like corona... but shit

[bulaian]

All of the minhas beers are pretty much copies of big brands. They have Heineken looking one that does not taste anything close to Heineken

[lasimmon]

Ugh sunshine lager is like corona... but shit

Corona is shit..

[Sentry]

Worked up a sweat giving the M5 the first wash of 2018. Needed refreshment.

82037

$9.50 for a 4 pack at Crowfoot. Bending the rules a bit here, but 4 at 7.5% = 6 at 5.0%. Hoping for a broke ass innis and gunn and it met my expectations. A little sweeter but not necessarily a bad thing.

[Brent.ff]

Corona is shit..

Then this is shit-squared

[schurchill39]

Coop classic red ale $6.99/6pack. Bought a flat.

I'm a big fan of the red ale. Great value

[RX_EVOLV]

Anyone jumped in on the Willow Park flash sale last week? $26 for a 24 pack of SOL. Smoking deal. picked up 2 cases.

[Mitsu3000gt]

Anyone jumped in on the Willow Park flash sale last week? $26 for a 24 pack of SOL. Smoking deal. picked up 2 cases.

I tried, they were sold out. Almost as good as American liquor prices!

[ExtraSlow]

Best deals I see for the long weekend are at superstore :
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[Brent.ff]

ooo that's pretty solid for AGD..ultimate camping beer

[bulaian]

Anyone try Grande Prairie Brewing before? $18 for a 15 can pack at Safeway/Sobey's

82082

[lasimmon]

Anyone try Grande Prairie Brewing before? $18 for a 15 can pack at Safeway/Sobey's

82082

after seeing this post I remember really enjoying one of their brews - can't remember which it was though as it was a while ago.

I would take a chance on that.

[ExtraSlow]

ooo that's pretty solid for AGD..ultimate camping beer
If you are watching your figure, AGD light is same price.

[R-Audi]

Picked up a case of Caribou Genuine draft last night.. not bad. It was $26/15 pack at a Minhas Liquor Store. (Think they are new)

[btimbit]

Anyone try Grande Prairie Brewing before? $18 for a 15 can pack at Safeway/Sobey's

82082

It's not bad actually, I like it

[Darkane]

Hold everything!!! PILSNER 24pk for $25.99 at OLYMPIA LIQUOR.

Low-mid range beer for low range pricing haha. But Pil isn’t awful

[HiTempguy1]

Damn, everyone going super thrifty in here.

I wasn't brave enough to foist untested beers on my buddies helping at the property this weekend. Superstore has 48 cans of Coors Light for $75, $1.70/can.

We had a bit of an epiphany that CL isn't that bad recently, after sticking with Keystone, Budweiser, PBR, etc for the past while.

[speedog]

Damn, everyone going super thrifty in here.

I wasn't brave enough to foist untested beers on my buddies helping at the property this weekend. Superstore has 48 cans of Coors Light for $75, $1.70/can.

We had a bit of an epiphany that CL isn't that bad recently, after sticking with Keystone, Budweiser, PBR, etc for the past while.

I'm kind of thinking the same thing but then I maybe only have one or two bottles a week if that. Probably the cheapest beer I've bought recently would've been Sleemans Cream Ale or Budweiser. Most recent purchase, a 12 bottle Red Truck Beer Company sampler case, pretty good actually but definitely a bit more than a buck a bottle.

[dirtsniffer]

Hold everything!!! PILSNER 24pk for $25.99 at OLYMPIA LIQUOR.

Low-mid range beer for low range pricing haha. But Pil isn’t awful


Just picked up a 48 pack at costco for 55 after deposit and get.

[ExtraSlow]

The 1905 pilsner and lager are still cheap at Safeway. I can't do it, but you guys feel free.
82201

[brucebanner]

Brava.

Less than $25 out the door for a 15 pack.

[adam c]

Picked up some AGD not bad if I might say

[Kjonus]

Picked up some AGD not bad if I might say

AGD is a great yellow camping beer, I buy it all the time if I'm just looking for a quantity of beer to take.

[ExtraSlow]

Hey cheapasses, ho buy yourself 30 coop beers.
82239

[ExtraSlow]

Safeway, Sobeys and coop have 24 bud or bud light for $39.99 this week, but superstore is much more compelling.

82421

[Swank]

I don't know if I've ever tried PC beer. Is the Pilsner or Honey Red any good?

[ExtraSlow]

from what I recall, I liked the honey red. I did reviews of them last year in the 2017 cheap beer thread. https://forums.beyond.ca/threads/404204-2017-cheap-beer-thread-reviews-sales-and-discussion?p=4673527#post4673527

[Swank]

Those reviews were great, thanks!

[Darkane]

Minhas has $1/beer usually at the brewery. Pizza brew I think it’s called.

I had a coupon from an entertainment book and they allowed me any beer they sell at a buck. The sunshine lager (corona type with infused lime) was very nice for a buck.

I will buy more in the future. White wolf their best seller was good too, but I’m more of a golden lager guy and it was slightly hoppier then my usual taste prefers.

[ExtraSlow]

I got a case of pc red and AGD light for the weekend.

[adam c]

Just sent my wife on a liquor run

[Swank]

I tried the PC Pilsener and Honey Red on the weekend. Pilsener was kinda bland, the colder the better for that one. Honey Red was better, both still good value for how inexpensive they were.

[ExtraSlow]

Agree, that honey red is excellent value. The coop red is also very nice. I buy both whenever they are on sale.

[aaronck]

Superstore has 36 Pil for $38.98 for the long weekend-

[ExtraSlow]

I know we had a discussion of cheap cider. Not really the same, but if you want to get your girlfriends, wives, or both drunk, Costco sangria is a great value. Something like $12 for 1.5L of 6% alcohol. Throw a couple ice cube in there and the ladies will be buzzed all day.

[killramos]

I know we had a discussion of cheap cider. Not really the same, but if you want to get your girlfriends, wives, or both drunk, Costco sangria is a great value. Something like $12 for 1.5L of 6% alcohol. Throw a couple ice cube in there and the ladies will be buzzed all day.

Finally something I can contribute to the thread. Many a regret have been had over a few bottles of Costco Sangria.

Fee free to dump a bottle of grappa or spike it with vodka for extra lols.

[ExtraSlow]

Olympia has some unknown "Rocky Mountain" for a good price. PC has Brewhouse and pilsner. Coop has coop. That's my pick, coop beer is pretty decent.
Pics below.
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82486
82487

[lasimmon]

The coop lager and light is good. The pilsner is bad IMO.

[HiTempguy1]

Drinking this weekend and next. Guess I know where I am stopping in Red Deer on Friday (co-op liquor store to stock up!)

Might as well go all in, I'll like it by the 8th beer regardless of what I initially think

[ExtraSlow]

That's the spirit! Although no idea if the prices are same outside of Calgary. Since Calgary coop is separate company from the central Alberta /rural ones. Check first to avoid disappointment

[HiTempguy1]

That's the spirit! Although no idea if the prices are same outside of Calgary. Since Calgary coop is separate company from the central Alberta /rural ones. Check first to avoid disappointment

Damn. Guess I'll have to cruise over to the one 2 minutes from the shop to double check, I just didn't want to drive around in the countryside for 3 days with 4 cases of beer in the back of the truck (no officer, I haven't been drinking and driving on rural roads).

[ExtraSlow]

Working my way through some 15's of coop pilsner. I don't think they had this variety last summer, but it's delightful. Highly recommended.

[ExtraSlow]

The coop lager and light is good. The pilsner is bad IMO.
I breezed over this comment yesterday, but I have to disagree. Not a true euro style pilsner, but it's very drinkable, and not offensive in any way.

[ExtraSlow]

Well in an expected turn of events, I've got myself a mini tasting happening. The contenders are all from co-op, the pilsner, the lager and the red ale.

To accompany, we have miss vickies sea salt and malt vinegar.

For ambiance we have the crackle of burning ikea furniture and the distant rumble of thunderstorms. Surely a classic canada day weekend situation.

Our glassware today is brought to us courtesy of Pan Alberta Gas, and if you are old enough to remember this company, you are older than me.

[adam c]

Our glassware today is brought to us courtesy of Pan Alberta Gas

For that smooth hint of lead taste

[ExtraSlow]

82500
Honestly, these three beers have very little to distinguish them from each other. All have recently been on sale for very low prices. You really can't go wrong with any.

For the sake of comparison, I'd say the lager is more malty, the pilsner is slightly more crisp, and the red is more roasty or nutty. All winners, all pair well with chips and your wife calling you to put your kids to bed.

For good measure, bring more than one variety on every camping trip and you can't loose.

[Swank]

Whatever happened to the coop strong lager 7% ? I remember getting a 15 pack once, but don't remember much after that.
https://res.cloudinary.com/ratebeer/image/upload/w_152,h_309,c_pad,d_beer_img_default.png,f_auto/beer_218355

[ExtraSlow]

They still make it, but it's not usually part of the same promotions as the other co-op beers. If it does get included in the promotions, it's a great value, I love me some cheap strong beer.

[ExtraSlow]

The coop spiced rum is tasty. Pregaming for the steel Panther concert.

:hijack::whocares::winter::goflames:

[Darkane]

The coop spiced rum is tasty. Pregaming for the steel Panther concert.

:hijack::whocares::winter::goflames:

I’m so jealous!

Enjoy they’re just amazing.

[ExtraSlow]

Saw em in Vegas. Hilarious and amazing.

[lasimmon]

Like no tits last night. Was disappointed. Show was great though.

[Darkane]

Like no tits last night. Was disappointed. Show was great though.

Too bad.

Glad it was awesome. Ralph Finez (sp) aka Michael Starr has a PHD in English I think.

[ExtraSlow]

Pc beers are the best deal this week. 1299 for a 12 pack if you buy two. 1399 for one. AGD 24 packs are 29.99 at superstore too.

Some of the big rock 15 packs are using the 360 degree lid now too. I grabbed a pack of kolsch for science.

[ExtraSlow]

Big rock has expanded the offerings that feature the 360 lid.
Today, kolsch.
82793

[speedog]

Pc beers are the best deal this week. 1299 for a 12 pack if you buy two. 1399 for one. AGD 24 packs are 29.99 at superstore too.

Some of the big rock 15 packs are using the 360 degree lid now too. I grabbed a pack of kolsch for science.


Crap, I've walked out of Oak and Vine with a single beer that was worth more than $12.99. It was quite good though.

[ExtraSlow]

Crap, I've walked out of Oak and Vine with a single beer that was worth more than $12.99. It was quite good though.

I think you are looking for the amg thread.

[Sentry]

Big rock has expanded the offerings that feature the 360 lid.
I did notice that, some tallboys now too.

I keep going back to Coop liquor hoping for that sick deal on red to pop up again but to no avail. :(

Been doing some light and fruity stuff on the hot days. Also Sobeys had a deal on growlers from Half Hitch (Cochrane), free growler with a $7 1L fill.

[killramos]

I think you are looking for the amg thread.

We need to get you an AMG pickup

[dirtsniffer]

4×4 squared for sale at distinctive right now. Only $300k

https://distinctivecollection.ca/used/Mercedes-Benz/2017-Mercedes-Benz-G550-d21e31770a0e0ae803cbc865116b1d22.htm

[ExtraSlow]

Today's tasting pits PC pilsner vs Jasper Brewing Crisp Pils. It's not a fair fight, because they aren't in the same price range, but life ain't fair so this is happening.

In the glass, the Jasper offering has finer bubbles, and a ever-so-slightly darker yellow color. The PC has large bubbles that dissipate quickly, and less color.

In the palate, the PC is sharply alcoholic, despite being only 5%, and after that initial impression, very little flavor remains. The Jasper presents as slightly hoppy, slightly creamy, and finishes with a dry, mild-but-distinct hop flavor. It's certainly not on the scale of a craft IPA, but the hops are there.

Verdict, when given it, I'm very happy to drink the Crisp Pils, but with my own money, I'd take the PC for most occasions. Unless you plan on drinking only one or two, in which case the Jasper will provide the strength of character to make it feel worthwhile.
82807
Today both are paired with slightly smoky hazy along with oppressive heat. They are both suitable for occasions like this.

[bulaian]

What's the price for the Jasper?

I recently picked up a 24-pack of Miller High Life. Referred as "The Champagne of Beers" on the box, for $30 at Costco.

I'll post up a review later

[dirtsniffer]

high life is no bueno.

[lasimmon]

high life is no bueno.

To the gulags with you.

[aaronck]

Crisp Pils is $9.99 for a six pack @ Co op starting tomorrow.

[ExtraSlow]

82839
Superstore this week

[Kavy]

high life is no bueno.

I can also confirm it is prohibido.

[Neil4Speed]

I think I have found the holy grail. Good Mood Cream Ale 6 Pack Cans for sale at $8.99 for a 6 Pack at Highlander. I price matched at Liquor Depot.

Really nice easy drinking beer, not challenging but just something good to kick back with. Nice that its a Local Craft Microbrew too...

[ExtraSlow]

The Pilsner I'm drinking this weekend is not any better than the co-op or PC beer I usually have. Definetly would not buy unless on sale like it was.

Will have to check out the good mood beer. Sounds right up my alley.

[HiTempguy1]

I have a Co-Op liquor store a 1 minute drive from the shop in the middle of nowhere. I've been going through their hard alcohol (all get an A+ for using in mixed drinks) and finally grabbed a pack of Lager Light.

Pretty meh. My baseline for light beers is CL. But for regular price of $8.99 for a 6 pack, it's cheap. Going to go buy an original lager pack today and give it a try, the fence isn't going to paint itself!

[ExtraSlow]

The Pilsner I'm drinking this weekend is not any better than the co-op or PC beer I usually have. Definetly would not buy unless on sale like it was.


Pairing today with "grannies famous tuna buns" which are very rich (velveeta and hard boiled eggs is the family secret). Neither of these beers is a true euro-style pilsner but PC gets higher marks for having the hint of crisp hoppiness. It really leave a clean palate, which is much appreciated. The Molson-brewed "old style pilsner" is zero steps above the crowd of cheap knock-off beers from co-op, PC etc. It's fine, and I'll drink it, but it's only worth buying on sale.

Both beers pair well with extending your long weekend into the next week, and elevated BAC on the holiday Monday when most people are having elevated blood pressure on the highways. Drive safe friends.

[ExtraSlow]

End of an era. Coop is discontinuing its strong beer.
82932

[dirtsniffer]

I think I have found the holy grail. Good Mood Cream Ale 6 Pack Cans for sale at $8.99 for a 6 Pack at Highlander. I price matched at Liquor Depot.

Really nice easy drinking beer, not challenging but just something good to kick back with. Nice that its a Local Craft Microbrew too...

Good find. Already went through the 12 i bought. Hopefully its still on sale

[Swank]

End of an era. Coop is discontinuing its strong beer.

Given how long it's been since I last saw it that's no shock. I'm surprised enough people were asking about it to warrant a sign. Another socially reckless beer that seems to be phased out is Bud Light Platinum which is too bad because my wife would end up pretty funny after a few of those.

[ExtraSlow]

Would you consider all strong beers to be "socially reckless".

[Strider]

Another socially reckless beer that seems to be phased out is Bud Light Platinum

I thought that title was reserved for very cheap high ABV malt liquor and Four Loko. Does an extra 1% abv actually make any difference?

[Neil4Speed]

I thought that title was reserved for very cheap high ABV malt liquor and Four Loko. Does an extra 1% abv actually make any difference?

No kidding, it might be a cost for ABV thing. I mean, La Fin du Monde is one of my all time favorites and its a 9.0% that goes down very easy.

[Swank]

Would you consider all strong beers to be "socially reckless".

No, I was just mocking their wording that suggests their 6% beer doesn't support social responsibility and drinking. I for one am quite a fan of Red Horse which, @ 8% in 500ml cans for $3 each, is pretty good bang for your buck.

[HiTempguy1]

No, I was just mocking their wording that suggests their 6% beer doesn't support social responsibility and drinking.

Yea, it is quite humorous considering you know they're trying every way possible to sell weed infused beers :rofl:

[Sentry]

Yea, it is quite humorous considering you know they're trying every way possible to sell weed infused beers :rofl:
Ah, panic attack in a can.

Best enjoyed seperately.

[ExtraSlow]

Superstore is your destination this weekend. Black ice is awful, but gets you to your destination. Great price on big rock, that's the best value, and moose head, if you are from out east. Don't buy the bud light line. Just don't.
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[ExtraSlow]

Well, drinking this at a community event, so not sure of price, but assume it's cheap.
Pacific Western Cariboo genuine.
83075

I see I was discussing PW Cariboo Blonde on the first post of this thread.

[Brent.ff]

Trying this, was $19 with tax and deposit for 15 cans.. it’s ok. AGD is better83108