Reidenbach Extra Dry Beer Flat Top Can

Reidenbach Extra Dry Beer Flat Top

The Reidenbach Extra Dry Beer flat top can represents a classic mid-century package design produced in Chicago, Illinois. Styled with an explicit nod to traditional European brewing traditions, the 12-fluid-ounce container features bold gothic-style blackletter typography set against an off-white shield and a faux-woodgrain textured background. A detailed illustration of a traditional lidded blue beer stein bearing an ornate "R" monogram anchors the lower right front of the design. The mandatory statement along the lower rim confirms the can was "Brewed and Packed by Empire Brewing Co., Chicago, ILL."

Reidenbach Extra Dry was developed to appeal to consumers seeking a traditional, Bavarian-inspired lager. By incorporating Germanic iconography—combining old-world lettering, ribbon banners highlighting "EXTRA DRY" and "BEER," and vintage stein artwork—the brand conveyed a heritage of Old World craftsmanship. The label was marketed across Midwestern territories before the label disappeared during the broader contraction of regional beer brands.

The Empire Brewing Company designation functioned as a specialized trade name and subsidiary alias operated by Chicago's Canadian Ace Brewing Company (historically known as the Manhattan Brewing Company). Located along Emerald Avenue on Chicago's South Side, the facility navigated Prohibition by manufacturing non-alcoholic beverages and malt products before returning to full-scale brewing after repeal. During the post-war era, the brewery frequently used multiple operating names—including Empire Brewing Co.—to bottle and can various regional and contract labels. Facing stiff competition from massive national brewing conglomerates, the plant eventually ceased operations in 1968.

For breweriana enthusiasts, this flat top can holds significant appeal as a tangible relic of Chicago's post-war brewing landscape. It highlights the multi-brand marketing strategies deployed by urban breweries fighting for shelf space, while the stylized stein artwork makes it a standout piece for vintage flat top and Midwest beer can collections.