Illustration of Abraham Lincoln wearing American flag sunglasses, holding a beer, with red and blue splatter background – a fun tribute to Presidents Day and beer culture.

Presidents Day is a time to honor America’s leaders—but did you know that many of them were beer lovers and even homebrewers? From George Washington’s handwritten beer recipe to Barack Obama’s historic White House brew, beer has played an important role in the history of the presidency.

If you’re a homebrewer, you’re following in the footsteps of some of America’s greatest leaders! Let’s take a look at the fascinating relationship between U.S. presidents and beer—and how you can brew your own “Presidential Ale” with Mr. Beer.

George Washington: The Founding Father of Homebrewing

George Washington was more than just a revolutionary leader—he was also an early American brewer. He even recorded a homemade beer recipe in his journal, which included molasses as a key ingredient.

"Take a large Sifter full of Bran Hops to your Taste – Boil these 3 hours. Then strain out 30 Gallons into a cooler put in 3 Gallons Molasses while the Beer is scalding hot..."

Brew Like Washington!

If you want to brew a modern version of Washington’s beer, try using Mr. Beer’s American Ale Brewing Kit. You can also experiment with molasses or caramel malts for a colonial-inspired taste.

Thomas Jefferson: The Beer Experimenter

Thomas Jefferson loved brewing beer at home. At his Monticello estate, he experimented with different beer recipes and often used locally sourced ingredients.

"Beer, if drank with moderation, softens the temper, cheers the spirit, and promotes health." – Thomas Jefferson

If you want to brew like Jefferson, consider a Long Play IPA with Mr. Beer’s easy-to-use kits!

Obama’s White House Honey Ale: A Historic First

Barack Obama became the first U.S. president to brew beer inside the White House. The White House Honey Ale was made using honey from Michelle Obama’s garden beehive, giving it a sweet, malty character.

Brew Your Own White House Honey Ale

You can start with a Mr. Beer Let It Bee Honey Blonde Ale Kit and add real honey for a personal touch.

Presidential Beer Preferences: Who Drank What?

  • James Madison wanted to establish a national brewery.
  • Franklin D. Roosevelt helped end Prohibition.
  • Lyndon B. Johnson preferred Texas-brewed beers.
  • Joe Biden enjoys a cold Guinness.

Beer has long been part of American culture, from state dinners to casual gatherings. Why not celebrate Presidents Day with a homebrewed batch inspired by the great leaders of our nation?

Brew Your Own “Presidential Ale” with Mr. Beer

If reading about these presidential beer lovers has inspired you, it’s time to start your own brewing journey. With Mr. Beer’s easy homebrewing kits, you can craft your own small-batch beer just like Washington, Jefferson, and Obama.

Get Started Today:

Raise a glass to the presidents who loved beer as much as we do—cheers to history, homebrewing, and great American beer

Looking for the official White House Honey Ale Recipe? Try your own version today!