Damon Mcknight
Ordering a pint of beer in Australia is not as simple as it seems. While the standard imperial pint in the UK is 568ml, in Australia, the volume of a pint varies from state to state. In most parts of Australia, a pint is 570ml, but in South Australia, a pint is 425ml. This inconsistency in beer measurements has remained despite the country's shift to the metric system in 1970. The different names for beer sizes in different parts of the country add to the confusion. For example, in Queensland, a pot is called a 'middy', while in Victoria and Tasmania, a pot is a common order. In Sydney, most people order schooners, which are about 425ml, while in Melbourne, a pot of 285ml is more popular.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Pint in South Australia | 425ml |
| Pint in other Australian states | 570ml |
| Pint in the UK | 568ml |
| Pint in the US | 473ml |
| Volume of a schooner | 425ml |
| Volume of a pot or middy | 285ml |
| Volume of a pony | 140ml |
| Volume of a butcher | 200ml |
| Volume of a jug | 1140ml |
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What You'll Learn
Pint sizes vary across states
In Australia, beer measurements have remained inconsistent despite the country's shift to the metric system in 1970. The standard pint in the UK is 568ml, whereas in Australia, the pint is 570ml, an imperial pint rounded up to the nearest 5ml. However, the term "pint" is used interchangeably with different sizes across the different states.
In South Australia, a pint is 425ml, while in Queensland, a 425-450ml serving of beer is called a "schooner". In Melbourne, a pot is 285ml, and in Queensland, this is called a middy. In some parts of New South Wales, a handle is a pint-sized beer glass with a handle, and in South Australia and Western Australia, a butcher is a pint-sized glass with a handle and a dimple on the side.
The inconsistency in beer measurements across Australia can be confusing for drinkers, especially when ordering a pint in one state may result in a different quantity than in another. This variation in pint sizes across states is a unique feature of Australia's drinking culture and something to be aware of when ordering a beer.
While the UK has considered replacing pint sizes with millilitre sizes, as seen in Australia, it has not been implemented. The traditional imperial pint remains the standard in Britain, and publicans can face consequences for serving a short pint.
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The 'pot' or 'middy'
The pot or middy is a term used for a 10-ounce (285ml) glass of beer in Australia. The term originated in the 1940s when drinkers in New South Wales and Queensland were upset about rising beer prices. The United Liquor Victuallers' Association, a precursor to the Australian Hotels' Association, introduced the smaller glass size along with an increase in price. The pot or middy is now commonly used in Victoria, Tasmania, and Queensland, where it is sometimes referred to as a "middy". In Melbourne and Brisbane, a pot is a 10-ounce glass, while in Sydney, a "middy" is the same size.
The term "pot" is also used in Western Australia, although it is not clear if it refers to the same size as in other states. Some sources suggest that a "pot" in Western Australia may be closer to a "schooner", which is typically 425ml. The term "schooner" is used in most parts of Australia, but the size can vary by state. For example, in New South Wales, a schooner is usually around 425ml, while in Queensland and the Northern Territory, it's larger at 425-450ml.
The pot or middy is not the only unique term for beer sizes in Australia. In some parts of New South Wales, you might come across the "handle", which is similar to a pint, and the "butcher", which is a pint-sized glass with a handle and a dimple, commonly found in South Australia and Western Australia. There's also the "yard", usually only found at university bars or pubs catering to rowdy backpackers.
It's worth noting that beer sizes and terminology can vary across pubs and regions in Australia, and some establishments may have unique glassware that doesn't fit the standard categories. So, when ordering a beer in Australia, it's always good to be open to trying new things and asking questions if unsure.
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The 'butcher'
The butcher is a beer glass size in Australia, specifically in South Australia and Western Australia. It is a pint-sized glass that holds 200 ml of beer, which is one-fifth of a litre or just over a third of an imperial pint. The glass typically has a handle and a dimple on the side.
The butcher is one of the many unique beer glass sizes found in Australia, where beer measurements can vary across states and territories. Other common sizes include the pot or middy (285 ml), the schooner (425 ml), and the pint (570 ml).
In South Australia, a "pint" is considered to be 425 ml, differing from the standard imperial pint of 570 ml used in other parts of Australia. This inconsistency in measurements adds to the complexity of ordering beer in Australia, where the same name for a glass size can refer to different quantities in different states.
The butcher, with its distinctive handle and dimple, is a local variation in South Australia and Western Australia. It holds a smaller volume of beer compared to the standard pint, making it a good option for those who prefer a more modest serving or are looking to enjoy their beer in good company without overindulging.
While the exact origins of the butcher are unclear, its name and unique characteristics have likely become ingrained in the local drinking culture of these states. It showcases the diverse and sometimes confusing array of beer glass sizes that Australia has to offer.
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The 'yard'
The yard is a beer size in Australia, containing 1.4 litres of beer. It is served in a tall, skinny glass that requires two hands to hold. It is usually found at university bars or pubs that cater to rowdy backpackers. The yard is not considered a typical Australian beer size, but it is a popular choice for those seeking a large volume of beer.
The yard is significantly larger than other common beer sizes in Australia, such as the pint and the schooner. In most states of Australia, a pint is equal to 570 millilitres, while in South Australia, it is 425 millilitres. The schooner, on the other hand, typically ranges from 425 to 450 millilitres, but in South Australia, it is only 285 millilitres.
The variation in beer sizes across Australia can be attributed to historical factors such as the influence of the Temperance movement, World War I, and austerity measures during the 1930s Depression. Additionally, the metrication process in the 1960s and 1970s led to changes in the definition of a pint, with former British colonies like Australia adopting the metric system.
While the yard may not be as commonly ordered as the pint or schooner, it holds a unique place in Australian drinking culture, offering a substantial volume of beer for those seeking a challenge or a memorable drinking experience.
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The UK's imperial pint
The UK pint is larger than the US pint, which is defined differently. The US liquid pint is approximately 473 millilitres or 16 fluid ounces, while the less common US dry pint is about 551 millilitres. The difference in volume between the two pints can be attributed to the distinct measurement systems used in the UK and the US.
Historically, the UK's imperial system of measurement was updated in the 1820s, while the US retained older British definitions from the late 1700s. The UK's imperial pint is not only larger in volume but also has stricter serving guidelines. For instance, a landlord can only serve up to 5% of the pint as froth, and customers have the right to request a top-up if there is too much froth.
In the UK, draught beer and cider are typically sold in specific fractions of a pint, such as one-third, two-thirds, or multiples of half a pint. These beverages are required by law to be served in stamped, measured glasses or from government-stamped meters. Milk is another exception to the metric system, as it is often sold in pints without the metric equivalent stated.
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Frequently asked questions
In Australia, a pint is 570ml. This is an imperial pint rounded up to the nearest 5ml.
In the UK, an imperial pint is 568ml, which is 2ml less than the Australian pint.
A schooner is a beer size used in most parts of Australia, holding 425ml. This is approximately three-quarters of a pint.
A pot is a beer size commonly used in Victoria and Tasmania, holding 285ml. This is half an imperial pint. In Queensland, a pot is called a "middy" and is slightly larger at 285-310ml.
Other beer sizes in Australia include the "pony" (140ml), the "butcher" (200ml), and the "yard" which is usually found at university bars or pubs catering to backpackers.
