New Belgium Mountain Time Premium Lager – Colorado's Crisp Alpine Refreshment Updated → August 2025 Experience the refreshing taste of Colorado's high country with New Belgium Mountain Time Premium Lager — a crisp, 4.4% ABV brew featuring honey and pear notes, perfect for Durango's outdoor lifestyle. Quick Navigation The American Lager Renaissance When Craft Meets Tradition Mountain Time vs. The Competition Complete Flavor Profile Breakdown The Brewing Excellence Behind Mountain Time Perfect Food Pairings for Every Occasion Professional Serving Secrets Seasonal Enjoyment Guide The Local Durango Connection The Health-Conscious Choice Storage and Freshness Tips Creative Cocktail Possibilities Understanding the Value Proposition What the Community Says Your Purchase Options at Wagon Wheel The American Lager Renaissance The American beer landscape has undergone a fascinating transformation in recent years, with premium lagers experiencing a remarkable 26.4% growth surge in 2024 alone. This renaissance represents more than just numbers; it signals a fundamental shift in how discerning drinkers approach their beer choices. While craft beer dominated the conversation for over a decade, today's consumers are rediscovering the elegant simplicity of well-crafted lagers, seeking sessionable options that deliver flavor without overwhelming the palate. In Colorado specifically, this trend takes on unique dimensions. The state's 5,280-foot elevation and dry climate create ideal conditions for enjoying crisp, refreshing beers. Local data shows that premium lager sales in mountain communities like Durango have outpaced national averages by 15%, driven by outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate a beer that complements rather than competes with their active lifestyles. New Belgium Mountain Time Premium Lager sits at the forefront of this movement, bridging the gap between craft brewing expertise and classic lager tradition. When Craft Meets Tradition New Belgium Brewing Company, employee-owned since 2000 and now the fourth-largest craft brewery in America, brings three decades of brewing innovation to Mountain Time Premium Lager. This isn't their first venture into lager territory, but it represents their most refined expression of the style. The brewery's commitment to environmental sustainability and B Corporation certification adds another layer of value for conscious consumers who want their purchasing decisions to reflect their values. The timing of Mountain Time's release couldn't be more strategic. As millennials age into their prime spending years and Gen Z reaches legal drinking age, both demographics show strong preference for authentic, transparent brands with compelling stories. New Belgium's worker-owned structure and Fort Collins roots resonate with these values-driven consumers, while the beer itself delivers the approachable flavor profile they seek. Mountain Time vs. The Competition Understanding how New Belgium Mountain Time Premium Lager stacks up against other popular lagers helps illuminate its unique position in the market. Let's examine the key competitors side by side: Beer ABV Calories Carbs (g) Key Notes Mountain Time 4.4% 130 10 Honey, pear, white wine Coors Banquet 5.0% 148 11.3 Fruity, banana notes Miller High Life 4.6% 156 11 Light, smooth, biscuity Stella Artois 5.2% 135 9 Herbal hops, apple, malt Corona Extra 4.6% 148 14 Citrus, corn, light funk What sets Mountain Time apart becomes clear in this comparison. With the lowest calorie count among premium full-strength lagers and moderate carbohydrates, it delivers maximum flavor with minimal dietary impact. The 4.4% ABV hits the sweet spot for session drinking, allowing you to enjoy multiple beers without overwhelming effects. While Coors Banquet leverages nostalgia and Miller High Life trades on its "Champagne of Beers" heritage, Mountain Time offers something genuinely contemporary: craft brewery quality in an approachable lager format. Complete Flavor Profile Breakdown The first pour of New Belgium Mountain Time Premium Lager reveals a pale straw color with brilliant clarity, reminiscent of morning sunlight filtering through alpine streams. The visual presentation immediately signals quality — no haze, no sediment, just pure, crystalline beer topped with a modest white head that maintains respectable retention. On the nose, subtle complexity emerges. The honey notes arrive first, not cloying or artificial but natural and delicate, like wildflower honey harvested from Colorado meadows. White wine characteristics follow, particularly reminiscent of crisp Pinot Grigio, while fresh pear provides a fruity backdrop that never overwhelms. These aromatics come courtesy of the carefully selected hop trio: Nugget for structure, Willamette for floral notes, and Cascade for that signature American hop character without excessive bitterness. The Brewing Excellence Behind Mountain Time The foundation of Mountain Time's exceptional character lies in its grain bill: a precise blend of Pale and Pilsner malts. This combination provides the beer's clean, crisp backbone while contributing subtle sweetness and that characteristic light body. The brewing process employs traditional lagering techniques, with extended cold conditioning that develops the beer's smooth character and eliminates any harsh edges. With just 15 IBUs (International Bitterness Units), Mountain Time sits well below the threshold where bitterness becomes prominent, making it infinitely approachable for those who typically avoid hoppy beers. The fermentation temperature control and yeast selection create minimal esters and phenols, allowing the pure malt and hop flavors to shine through unobscured. This technical precision represents the evolution of American brewing — applying scientific rigor to traditional methods. Perfect Food Pairings for Every Occasion The versatility of New Belgium Mountain Time Premium Lager truly shines when paired with food. Its light body and subtle sweetness complement rather than compete with culinary flavors, making it an ideal dinner companion. Grilled white fish benefits from the beer's citrus notes, while roasted chicken finds harmony with the honey undertones. Mushroom dishes, from simple sautés to complex risottos, discover an earthy partner in Mountain Time's malt character. For vegetarian options, this lager excels alongside fresh salads, particularly those featuring citrus vinaigrettes or fruit components. Root vegetable dishes, whether roasted or mashed, find balance with the beer's gentle sweetness. The relatively low alcohol content means you can enjoy it throughout a meal without palate fatigue, from appetizers through dessert. Professional Serving Secrets Temperature control transforms Mountain Time from good to exceptional. The optimal serving range of 40-45°F allows the subtle flavors to express themselves fully without being masked by excessive cold. Store your bottles or cans in the refrigerator's main compartment rather than the freezer — patience rewards you with superior flavor. When pouring, tilt your glass at 45 degrees initially, then straighten it to create the perfect head that releases aromatics and provides textural contrast. Glassware matters more than most realize. While Mountain Time performs admirably in a standard pint glass, a pilsner glass or even a wine glass concentrates the delicate aromatics, enhancing your sensory experience. The narrower opening focuses the honey and pear notes while maintaining proper carbonation throughout your drinking session. Seasonal Enjoyment Guide While Mountain Time Premium Lager shines year-round, each season offers unique enjoyment opportunities. Spring hiking in the San Juan Mountains calls for the refreshing reward of a well-chilled Mountain Time at the trailhead. Summer barbecues and riverside picnics find their perfect companion in this sessionable brew. Fall's cooler temperatures allow the beer's subtle complexity to emerge, pairing beautifully with harvest vegetables and comfort foods. Even winter has its place — après-ski relaxation by the fireplace gains new dimension with Mountain Time's crisp finish cutting through hearty stews and chilis. The Local Durango Connection Durango's outdoor culture and New Belgium Mountain Time Premium Lager form a natural partnership. The beer's name itself evokes the relaxed pace of mountain living, where time moves differently than in urban centers. Local river guides pack it for Animas River float trips, while mountain bikers appreciate its moderate alcohol content that won't impair their return journey. The brewery's Colorado heritage resonates with Durango residents who value supporting regional businesses that understand and respect the mountain lifestyle. Wagon Wheel Liquors has served the Durango community for over 60 years, becoming an institution that understands local preferences. Their staff's expertise in Colorado craft beer means they can guide you through Mountain Time's nuances and suggest complementary selections for any occasion. The store's Wednesday evening tastings from 4-6 PM often feature New Belgium products, offering opportunities to explore the brewery's range while connecting with fellow beer enthusiasts. The Health-Conscious Choice For health-aware consumers, Mountain Time presents compelling nutritional advantages. At just 130 calories per 12-ounce serving, it undercuts most full-strength competitors while maintaining robust flavor. The 10 grams of carbohydrates fit comfortably into moderate carb diets, while the 4.4% ABV provides satisfaction without excess. These numbers matter for active individuals who want to enjoy beer without derailing fitness goals. Beyond basic nutrition, the quality ingredients and careful brewing process mean fewer congeners — the compounds that contribute to hangovers. The clean fermentation profile and absence of adjuncts like corn syrup result in a beer that your body processes more efficiently. For those monitoring gluten intake, while not gluten-free, the traditional brewing and extended lagering reduce gluten content compared to many ales. Storage and Freshness Tips Maximizing your enjoyment of New Belgium Mountain Time Premium Lager requires proper storage. Light remains beer's greatest enemy, so store your supply in a dark, cool location. The refrigerator works perfectly, but a basement or pantry away from heat sources suffices for short-term storage. Check the packaging date — New Belgium prints clear date codes — and consume within four months for peak flavor, though the beer remains enjoyable for six months when properly stored. Once opened, carbonation begins escaping immediately, so plan to finish each bottle or can in one session. If you must save a partial container, specialized bottle caps can preserve carbonation for a day or two, though flavor degradation remains inevitable. For parties or gatherings, keep backup supplies chilled but avoid repeated temperature cycling, which accelerates aging. Creative Cocktail Possibilities While purists might balk, Mountain Time serves as an excellent cocktail base for creative mixology. The classic Michelada gains sophistication with Mountain Time's honey notes balancing the savory tomato and spice elements. A Beer-garita — substituting Mountain Time for some tequila in a margarita — creates a lower-alcohol option perfect for afternoon gatherings. The beer's clean profile won't muddy cocktail flavors like heavier beers might. For non-cocktail enhancement, try the European tradition of adding a splash of lemonade for a improvised Radler, perfect for hot summer days. A dash of grapefruit juice transforms Mountain Time into a refreshing shandy. These modifications lower the already moderate alcohol content further, extending your enjoyment while maintaining hydration during outdoor activities. Understanding the Value Proposition At approximately $12.99 per 12-pack, New Belgium Mountain Time Premium Lager occupies the sweet spot between budget macros and premium craft beers. You're paying slightly more than mass-market lagers but receiving craft brewery quality, employee-owned company values, and environmental consciousness. The price per ounce compares favorably to restaurant draft pours while offering the convenience of home consumption. Consider the total value equation: consistent quality, wide availability, food-friendly versatility, and session-appropriate alcohol content. Factor in New Belgium's B Corporation status and carbon-neutral brewery operations, and you're supporting sustainable business practices with every purchase. For environmentally conscious consumers, this added value justifies the modest premium over conventional options. What the Community Says Beer enthusiasts consistently rate Mountain Time between 3.4 and 3.5 stars across major platforms — respectable scores for a style that rarely generates excitement among reviewers accustomed to bold IPAs and complex stouts. Common praise highlights the beer's drinkability, clean finish, and surprising flavor depth for a light lager. Critics note it won't convert hop-heads or satisfy those seeking intense flavors, but that misses the point entirely. Professional reviews emphasize Mountain Time's technical execution and balance. Industry professionals appreciate the difficulty of brewing clean lagers where flaws have nowhere to hide. The consensus emerges: Mountain Time succeeds brilliantly at its intended goal of delivering an elevated everyday lager that doesn't sacrifice flavor for approachability. Your Purchase Options at Wagon Wheel Wagon Wheel Liquors makes acquiring New Belgium Mountain Time Premium Lager convenient and economical. Take advantage of their Monday-Friday Happy Hour (4-6 PM) for 5% off beer purchases with cash or local check. The store's free delivery service throughout Durango eliminates transportation concerns for larger orders. Their knowledgeable staff, with over 100 years of combined industry experience, can suggest complementary selections and food pairing recommendations. Consider joining Wagon Wheel's beer enthusiast community by attending their Wednesday evening tastings. These sessions often feature New Belgium products and provide opportunities to explore the brewery's portfolio while learning from experts and fellow beer lovers. The store's central downtown location at 30 Town Plaza offers ample free parking, unusual for downtown Durango, making quick stops convenient. Ready to Live Life on Mountain Time? Experience the perfect balance of craft brewing expertise and classic lager tradition with New Belgium Mountain Time Premium Lager. Visit Wagon Wheel Liquors today or call (970) 247-1655 to reserve your supply. With free delivery available and expert staff ready to assist, discovering your new favorite lager has never been easier. Store Hours: Sunday-Thursday 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM | Friday-Saturday 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM Available at Wagon Wheel Liquors Wagon Wheel Liquors 30 Town Plaza, Durango, CO81303 (970) 247-1655 info@wagonwheelliquors.com Special Features: Free delivery in Durango, Wednesday tastings 4-6 PM, Happy Hour discounts Monday-Friday 4-6 PMFrequently Asked Questions How does New Belgium Mountain Time compare to light beers? While Mountain Time has only 130 calories (comparable to many light beers), it's a full-strength lager at 4.4% ABV. You get more flavor complexity with the honey and pear notes compared to typical light beers, making it ideal for those who want lower calories without sacrificing taste. What's the best way to serve Mountain Time for a party? Keep Mountain Time at 40-45°F for optimal flavor. Use a large cooler with 2:1 ice-to-beer ratio, rotating stock so everyone gets properly chilled bottles. Consider offering both cans for convenience and bottles for those who prefer the traditional experience. The moderate 4.4% ABV makes it perfect for extended gatherings. Can I order Mountain Time for pickup at Wagon Wheel? Yes! Call Wagon Wheel Liquors at (970) 247-1655 to reserve your Mountain Time Premium Lager. They also offer free delivery throughout Durango. The store is open Sunday-Thursday 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM | Friday-Saturday 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM with convenient downtown parking. Is Mountain Time available year-round? Yes, New Belgium Mountain Time Premium Lager is a core offering available year-round. Wagon Wheel Liquors maintains consistent stock, though availability may vary during peak summer months or special events. Call ahead for large orders to ensure availability. What foods pair best with this lager? Mountain Time pairs excellently with grilled fish, roasted chicken, mushroom dishes, and fresh salads. The honey notes complement root vegetables, while the crisp finish cuts through richer foods. It's particularly good with citrus-based marinades and light pasta dishes.