Mardi

Being the choice local brew of a city that holds drinking on the street as a right, Abita and the can appeared destined for each other. But it seems to have taken a national craft-can movement, or perhaps the success of Big Flats and a recent NOLA Brewing announcement, for the North Shore brewery to realize the potential in making their 12 ounces a couple inches shorter. Today, Abita Brewing Company unveiled plans to put its Amber, Purple Haze and Jockamo IPA varieties in canned form, according to a news release.

The cans are set to be available in six and twelve packs starting in early 2012. 

“For many years people associated craft beer with glass bottles only,  but the perception and the technology of the aluminum beverage can has really changed,” Abita President David Blossman said in a press release announcing the event.

Abita's cans are coated with a water-based lining, which insulates the beer from the can’s interior. Cans also protect from UV light and oxygen, which can damage the taste of beer, Abita said. 

Other than providing a sure bet that you won't get tagged for taking your drink to go, the cans also offer an environmental benefit. Glass still isn't widely recyclable in town, but you can toss as many aluminum cans into those giant recycling carts as they will hold.

Canning will take place at the company's Abita Springs Brewery.