When to buy or not buy a mix-a-six beer pack

The drawbacks of a mix-a-six beer pack don't apply to stronger, malt-forward styles such as stouts, barleywines, quadruples, and other barrel-aged varieties. These types of beers are generally on the more expensive side and are often sold individually. However, if you come across any that can be purchased as part of a custom six-pack, definitely take advantage of that offer.
On the other hand, the mix-and-match approach doesn't work well with hop-forward beers that are best enjoyed fresh. Especially when distribution is local, brewers don't gain much from selling single cans. Instead, they aim to sell multiple six-packs quickly to ensure that consumers receive fresh products. So, much like when you shop for perishable grocery items like fruits or meats, keep freshness in mind when selecting your beer.
Lastly, pay attention to the store you’re shopping at; some do offer fresh single bottles. If you’re at a specialized beer shop with regularly restocked coolers and high customer traffic, your chances of finding something fresh are better. And if you accidentally pick up an older beer, remember that even past its expiration date, it can still be used in cooking. Instead of discarding it, consider using it to make a beer batter for hush puppies, a stew, or similar dishes.
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