Anheuser Busch Inbev SA (ADR) (BUD), Constellation Brands, Inc. (STZ): Is This a Bloody Good Thing to Do to Beer?

Boston Beer Co Inc (NYSE:SAM) may not have started the craft beer movement, but it certainly cemented its appeal, yet even it has had to branch out into avenues other than just “beer” to keep its sales afloat. Its seasonals had been one of its biggest draws, but now its Angry Orchard ciders and Twisted Tea blends do more than just supplement declining Samuel Adams sales. Depletions for the 13-week period ending March 30 grew 16% year over year specifically because of its ciders and teas.

Similarly, Molson Coors Brewing Company (NYSE:TAP) has had to resort to seasonal beers, including everything from pumpkins, honey, and apples in the recipe to bolster falling beer sales volumes in Canada, Europe, and particularly the U.S., where volumes dropped 3.3%. Even its signature Coors Light comes in an iced tea flavor.

Although this branching out into new flavors and brews may have been healthy for the business in the short term, I fear it runs the risk of diluting the brewers’ strength over the long haul. When shelves are crowded with a surfeit of flavors, the real beer gets lost in the mash.

For me, when I want a Bloody Mary or a shot of tequila, I’ll order one — with a beer chaser. And when I want a cure for the eventual hangover, I’ll just grab some of the hair of the dog that bit me.

The article Is This a Bloody Good Thing to Do to Beer? originally appeared on Fool.com.

Fool contributor Rich Duprey has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Boston Beer, Diageo, and Molson Coors Brewing (NYSE:TAP). The Motley Fool owns shares of Boston Beer.

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