• Skip to secondary menu
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Beer Info

Beer News, Beer Releases and New Breweries

  • Home
  • Top 10 Beers
    • Ales
    • Lagers
    • Barrel Aged
    • Hybrid
    • Specialty
  • GABF
    • 2024 GABF
    • 2023 GABF
    • 2021 GABF
    • 2022 GABF
    • 2020 GABF
    • 2019 GABF
    • 2018 GABF
    • 2017 GABF
    • 2015 GABF
    • 2014 GABF
    • 2013 GABF
    • 2012 GABF
    • 2011 GABF
    • 2010 GABF
    • 1987 GABF
  • World Beer Cup
    • 2025 World Beer Cup
    • 2022 World Beer Cup
    • 2018 World Beer Cup
    • 2016 World Beer Cup
    • 2014 World Beer Cup
    • 2012 World Beer Cup
    • 2010 World Beer Cup
    • 2008 World Beer Cup
    • 2006 World Beer Cup
    • 2004 World Beer Cup
    • 2002 World Beer Cup
    • 2000 World Beer Cup
    • 1998 World Beer Cup
    • 1996 World Beer cup
  • U.S. Open
    • 2022 U.S. Open
    • 2021 U.S. Open
    • 2020 U.S. Open
    • 2019 U.S. Open
    • 2018 U.S. Open
    • 2017 U.S. Open
    • 2016 U.S. Open
    • 2015 U.S. Open
    • 2014 U.S. Open
    • 2013 U.S. Open
    • 2012 U.S. Open
    • 2011 U.S. Open
    • 2010 U.S. Open
    • 2009 U.S. Open
  • U.S. Open Cider
    • 2021 U.S. Open Cider
    • 2020 U.S. Open Cider
    • 2019 U.S. Open Cider
    • 2018 U.S. Open Cider
    • 2017 U.S. Open Cider
    • 2016 U.S. Open Cider
    • 2015 U.S. Open Cider
  • More
    • Schools
      • United States
      • Canada
      • Europe
    • Writers
      • Edwin Arnaudin
        • Zebulon Artisan Ales
        • Highland Brewing
      • Morgan Forsyth
      • Paul Leone
      • Austin Foster
      • Anne-Fitten Glenn
    • Books
      • Starting a Brewery
      • Homebrew
      • History
      • Fun & Games
    • Fun Facts

Archives for March 2026

Oskar Blues Release New Dales IPA Mix Pack and More

March 27, 2026 by Dustin Scoggins

LONGMONT, CO –  Oskar Blues Brewery, the trailblazing craft brewery that launched the craft-beer-in-a-can revolution with Dale’s Pale Ale, is expanding its portfolio this month with two bold new offerings: the Dale’s IPA Mix Pack, a new year-round variety pack, and Neon Rodeo, a limited-release slightly sour fruited ale.

When Oskar Blues began hand-canning Dale’s Pale Ale in 2002, the industry scoffed — until they tried it. That pioneering move forever changed how craft beer is packaged and consumed. Today, the brewery continues that boundary-pushing spirit with the Dale’s IPA Mix Pack, which brings together three fan-favorite hop bombs in one convenient box: Dale’s Easy IPA (a crisp 4.9% session-style IPA bursting with tropical and citrus notes), Dale’s American IPA (a classic West Coast-style with bright citrus and pine), and Dale’s Double IPA (a balanced, intensely hop-forward Imperial IPA). The 12-can pack is designed for easy sharing and keeping the good times flowing.

Joining the lineup is Neon Rodeo, Oskar Blues’ first new packaged beer in several years. Previously available only on draft at the Brevard, NC taproom, this bright, slightly sour fruited ale combines zesty lime and refreshing raspberry with a touch of tartness for a crisp, juicy, and highly drinkable experience. At approximately 4.5% ABV, Neon Rodeo is perfect for the barstool, backyard, or beach — day or night.

“Dale’s has always been about hops and approachability — crushable beers that deliver serious flavor,” said Aaron Baker, Brand Director for Oskar Blues Brewery. “The IPA Mix Pack brings together three of our most-loved IPAs, making it a natural extension of the Dale’s family. Neon Rodeo has been a taproom favorite for years. It’s bright, playfully tart, and a little unexpected — exactly what fans have come to expect from us.”

The Dale’s IPA Mix Pack is shipping to select states this month and will be available year-round. Neon Rodeo will be available nationally from March through July in 6-packs of 12-oz cans and on draft.

About Oskar Blues Brewery

Founded by Dale Katechis in 1997 in Lyons, Colorado, Oskar Blues Brewery pioneered the craft-beer-in-a-can movement with its flagship Dale’s Pale Ale. Today, the brewery operates facilities in Colorado and North Carolina and distributes its beers across the United States and in many countries worldwide. Oskar Blues is part of Monster Brewing Company, a total beverage company dedicated to crafting superior-quality, great-tasting beverages for every occasion.

About Monster Brewing Company

Monster Brewing Company, formerly known as CANarchy Craft Brewery Collective, was founded in 2015 as a disruptive collective of craft breweries. Its portfolio includes iconic brands such as Jai Alai IPA, Dale’s Pale Ale, Dallas Blonde, Wild Basin hard seltzers, and flavored malt beverages including The Beast Unleashed and Nasty Beast Hard Tea. The company also distributes Monster Tour Water and Revitalyte hydration beverages.

For Brewing fun fact, trivia, movies and more, Click Here.

Filed Under: Beer, breweries

Odell Brewing Continues Decades of IPA Innovation with the Launch of MDRN IPA

March 27, 2026 by Dustin Scoggins

Odell

Fort Collins, CO – Odell Brewing Company, a trailblazer in American craft beer since 1989, today announced the release of MDRN IPA — a bright, clean, and explosively aromatic modern India Pale Ale that delivers vibrant citrus and juicy hop character with a smooth, highly drinkable finish.

Building on decades of hop-forward innovation that began with its flagship Odell IPA — the only American-style IPA to earn Gold medals at both the Great American Beer Festival and World Beer Cup — Odell continues to evolve the category. The brewery’s expanded IPA lineup, which includes fan favorites like Hazer Tag and Mountain Standard, has consistently pushed the boundaries of aroma, flavor, and drinkability.

“Our hop partnerships go back decades,” said Brendan McGivney, Odell Brewing’s COO. “Those long-standing relationships give us access to cutting-edge hop varieties and processing techniques, allowing us to keep redefining what an IPA can be. MDRN IPA is the next evolution in that journey.”

Developed by Odell’s RaD Team in close collaboration with leading hop partners, MDRN IPA features a custom blend of Yakima Valley-grown HBC 638 Hyperboost, CRYO Krush, and Mosaic, along with an experimental hop from Clayton Farms in New Zealand. At 5.8% ABV and 30 IBU, the beer pours a light straw color and bursts with complex notes of citrus, melon, and stone fruit. On the palate, juicy orange zest and white grapefruit shine through, finishing crisp and refreshingly clean.

MDRN IPA is now available in six-packs and on draft throughout Odell Brewing’s distribution network, as well as at the brewery’s taprooms in Fort Collins and Denver.

About Odell Brewing

Odell Brewing is one of the largest independent, employee-owned craft breweries in the United States. Founded in 1989 by the Odell family in Fort Collins, Colorado, the brewery has built a culture rooted in family, collaboration, and a deep passion for quality beer. Committed to independence and innovation, Odell creates handcrafted, beer-centric brews while delivering exceptional service to customers and making meaningful contributions to its co-workers and community through outreach and charitable programs.

For Brewing fun fact, trivia, movies and more, Click Here.

Filed Under: Beer, breweries

BevNomad Launches New Beer Series with Motörhead

March 27, 2026 by Dustin Scoggins

 

BevNomad

Los Angeles, CA – It’s louder, bolder, and back for good. BevNomad today announced the revival of Road Crew, a new limited-edition beer collaboration with Motörhead, one of rock ‘n’ roll’s most influential and uncompromising bands.

The partnership launches an ongoing quarterly series of collectible cans that fuse bold, easy-drinking beer with the band’s iconic album artwork. Designed for collectors, lifelong fans, and craft beer enthusiasts alike, each release transforms legendary Motörhead visuals into limited-edition cans that are as much about the art as the beer inside.

“Motörhead has always stood for authenticity, power, and doing things loud,” said Steve Kwapil, CEO of BevNomad. “This album art-inspired series captures that same rebellious spirit — giving fans a beer they can crack open today and a collectible piece they’ll hold onto for years to come.”

“This collaboration is a true tribute to Motörhead’s legacy and the fans who keep the fire burning,” said Todd Singerman, Motörhead’s longtime manager. “Lemmy was fiercely involved in every aspect of the band’s art, insisting it carried the raw power of the music. Seeing icons like the War-Pig literally in the hands of loyal fans is something worth raising a glass to.”

The series kicks off with Ace of Spades as Release #1 and The World Is Yours as Release #2. Both cans are scheduled to drop in March 2026, with a special launch event at the legendary Rainbow Bar and Grill in West Hollywood — a historic rock landmark deeply tied to the band’s history.

Additional collectible releases, each tied to historically significant Motörhead artwork, will roll out throughout 2026 and beyond. Every Road Crew release will include a custom Spotify playlist featuring classic Motörhead tracks, powerful covers by other artists, and podcasts exploring the band’s storied history.

About BevNomad

BevNomad was founded in 2022 and is headquartered in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area. The company emerged as a distributor-centric beverage accelerator with a mission to streamline the entry and growth of emerging and international beverage brands into the U.S. market. Built by a leadership team—including CEO Steve Kwapil—that brings together over 100 years of combined experience in beverage supply chain, national distribution, and brand building, BevNomad focuses on curating high-quality craft beers, premium spirits, RTDs, wine, cordials, and innovative categories like hemp-derived THC drinks.

Since its launch, the company has rapidly expanded its portfolio through strategic partnerships, such as introducing Ireland’s award-winning White Hag brewery to U.S. shelves in early 2025 and collaborating with iconic rock band Motörhead on whiskeys and the Road Crew beer series. By handling production, compliance, distribution, and marketing, BevNomad helps both domestic and global brands achieve scalable, profitable operations while delivering fresh, consumer-driven programs to distributors and retailers across the country.

For Brewing fun fact, trivia, movies and more, Click Here.

Filed Under: Beer, breweries

Pliny the Younger 2026 Has Landed: The World’s Most Famous Triple IPA is Back for Its 22nd Annual Release!

March 26, 2026 by Dow Scoggins


If you’re a craft beer lover, you’ve probably heard the legends: lines snaking around the block, pilgrims flying in from across the country, and grown adults treating a pint like it’s the Super Bowl of hops. Welcome back, Pliny the Younger — Russian River Brewing Company’s legendary triple IPA is pouring once again at their Santa Rosa and Windsor brewpubs from March 20 through April 2, 2026.

This marks the 22nd annual brewery-only release of one of the most celebrated (and chased) beers in the world. First brewed quietly in the slow winter months of 2005 as a bolder, hoppier big brother to the already iconic Pliny the Elder, Younger quickly outgrew its low-key origins. By 2010, it had become a full-blown phenomenon that turns Sonoma County into a craft beer mecca every spring.

What Makes Pliny the Younger So Special?
At 10.25% ABV, this isn’t your sessionable lawnmower beer. It’s a triple IPA — think massive hop character layered over a solid malt backbone that somehow keeps everything dangerously drinkable. The 2026 batch features a powerhouse hop lineup: Simcoe, Amarillo, Tangier, Citra, Mosaic, Nectaron, and Warrior.
Expect bold notes of citrus, stone fruit, pine, and lychee, with that signature fresh-hop aroma and flavor that Russian River is famous for. The beer pours with a beautiful golden hue, delivers a resinous punch up front, and finishes with a clean, hop-forward bite that makes you want to order another (responsibly, of course).
Fans often describe it as the ultimate expression of what a triple IPA can be: big, balanced, aromatic, and memorable. Vinnie Cilurzo and the Russian River team continue to tweak the recipe each year, incorporating new hop varieties while staying true to the beer’s soul.

How to Get Your Hands on Pliny the Younger in 2026

Good news for locals and dedicated travelers: this release is brewery-exclusive. You won’t find it online or in stores — you have to go to the source.
Where: Russian River Brewing Company in Santa Rosa (725 Fourth St.) and Windsor (700 Mitchell Lane)
When: Daily from March 20 to April 2, 2026, open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (or until they run out of the day’s allocation)
Formats: On tap by the pint (and likely smaller pours for the wise) and in bottles to go (limited per person, brewery-only — no online sales or shipping)

Pro tip: Arrive early if you want bottles or to beat the crowds, especially on opening weekend. Rain was in the forecast for the first weekend, so pack an umbrella and your patience — the vibe is part festival, part family reunion for many regulars.

The Pliny Pilgrimage: More Than Just a Beer
What started as a quiet winter seasonal has evolved into an economic boost for Sonoma County and a bucket-list event for beer enthusiasts. People reconnect with old friends, make new ones, and share stories over glasses of liquid gold. It’s “just like Christmas,” as one local reporter put it, with the first sip feeling like unwrapping the best present of the year.
Whether you’re a first-timer lining up for your inaugural taste or a veteran who marks their calendar every year, the Pliny the Younger release is pure craft beer joy. It’s a celebration of creativity, community, and the simple pleasure of an exceptionally well-made beer.

Planning Your Visit?
Check the official Russian River website for the latest details and merch drops (this year’s Pliny-themed gear is already available online).
Pair your Younger with great food from the brewpub menu — the rich, hoppy profile stands up beautifully to bold flavors.
Drink responsibly and enjoy fresh — Younger is best when it’s cold and consumed soon after release for peak hop aroma.

If you’re anywhere near Northern California this spring, do yourself a favor and make the trip. Pliny the Younger isn’t just a beer; it’s a moment.
Cheers to the Cilurzo family and the Russian River team for another outstanding batch. See you in the line — I’ll be the one with the ridiculous grin after the first sip.

More about Russian River Brewing
Russian River Brewing Company is a cornerstone of American craft beer, renowned for pushing the boundaries of hop-forward IPAs and innovative sour ales from its roots in California’s Sonoma County. Founded in 1997 by Korbel Champagne Cellars in Guerneville, the brewery hired Vinnie Cilurzo as its brewmaster. Cilurzo, already a trailblazer who crafted one of the earliest commercial double IPAs at Blind Pig Brewing in 1994, brought his passion for bold flavors to Russian River. When Korbel exited the beer business in 2003, Vinnie and his wife Natalie acquired the rights to the name, recipes, and beers, reopening the operation in Santa Rosa in 2004. Today, with brewpubs in Santa Rosa and Windsor, Russian River continues to thrive as a family-run icon, blending Vinnie’s inventive spirit with a focus on quality and experimentation.

What truly sets Russian River Brewing apart is its legendary lineup of beers that have shaped modern craft culture. Pliny the Elder, first brewed in 1999 and named after the Roman naturalist who referenced hops, remains its flagship double IPA—a piney, citrusy powerhouse packed with hops that helped popularize the imperial IPA style across the U.S. Even more sought-after is Pliny the Younger, the intensely hopped triple IPA released annually as a limited winter seasonal, drawing devoted fans who line up for its explosive aroma and balanced bitterness. Beyond the Plinys, the brewery excels in Belgian-inspired and barrel-aged sours like Consecration and Beatification, which showcase wild yeast, bacteria, and oak aging for complex, tart profiles. With year-round favorites like Blind Pig IPA and STS Pils, plus innovative limited releases, Russian River delivers beers that reward both hop heads and sour enthusiasts alike—making every visit or bottle a celebration of California craft brewing at its finest.

For Brewing fun fact, trivia, movies and more, Click Here.

 

Filed Under: Beer, Beer Festival

Top 10 Maibocks Brewed in America – 2026

March 26, 2026 by Dow Scoggins

Top 10 Maibocks Brewed in America

Top 10 Maibock Lagers Brewed in America 
This 2026 Top Ten List of Maibocks is from the results of the U.S. Open Beer Championship, Great American Beer Festival, and World Beer Cup.  Maibock, also known as Heller Bock or “May Bock,” is a classic German-style lager that celebrates springtime with its elegant balance of rich malt and subtle hop character. It pours a beautiful, deep gold to light amber color with excellent clarity and a large, creamy white head that lingers nicely. On the aroma and flavor, expect a prominent malty profile featuring bready, lightly toasted, and slightly sweet notes from quality continental malts like Pilsner, Vienna, and Munich—without any heavy caramel or roast flavors. Noble hops add a gentle, spicy or floral touch with moderate bitterness, keeping things refreshing rather than sweet or cloying. Typically around 6–7.5% ABV, it has a smooth, medium-to-full body, clean lager fermentation, and a crisp, satisfying finish that makes it highly drinkable for a stronger beer. Perfect for pairing with hearty foods or simply enjoying on a sunny afternoon!

1. Skoolhouse Bock – Moontown Brewing Company – Indiana
2. Maibock – Guilford Hall – Brewery – Maryland
3. Heller Bock – Cranky Sam Brewing – Montana
4. Not Yours  Maibock – Kros Strain Brewing – Nebraska
5. Maibock – Venn Brewing Company – Minnesota
6. Heller Bock – Goldfinger Brewing Company – Illinois
7. Johann Sebastian Bock Maibock – Blackbird Brewery – North Carolina
8. Maibock – Narrow Gauge Brewing – Missouri
9. Lenz Bock – Heater Allen Brewing – Oregon
10. Maypole – Grimm Artisanal Ales – New York

Evolution of the “Pale” Maibock Style (18th–19th Centuries)
Early bocks were generally darker and maltier. The distinctly pale Maibock—lighter in color, brighter, and more hopped—emerged as pale malts became widely available in the mid-to-late 19th century alongside the rise of pale lagers like Pilsner and Munich Helles. Munich brewers adapted traditional bock techniques (often including decoction mashing) with paler base malts (Pilsner, Vienna, Munich) to create a transitional spring beer.

Hofbräuhaus is widely credited as the originator of the modern Maibock style, which they still brew using a formula tracing back to Pichler’s 1614 version (pale copper hue, malty with caramel hints).

Top 10 Beers in America – Ales  Lagers  Specialty  Barrel Aged 

Filed Under: Beer, Beer Competition

American Rebel Light Beer Expands into West Virginia with New Partnership with Jefferson Distributing

March 24, 2026 by Dustin Scoggins

image-01

Nashville, TN — February 23, 2026 — American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB), the company behind American Rebel Light Beer — America’s Patriotic Brand — has signed a distribution agreement with Jefferson Distributing Company to launch the beer in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle.

The agreement, executed on February 10, 2026, marks American Rebel Light Beer’s first distributor footprint in the state of West Virginia. Jefferson Distributing, a respected wholesaler founded in 1960 and based in Charles Town, will introduce the brand across Jefferson, Morgan, and Berkeley counties, serving independent retailers, regional chains, and on-premise accounts.

New State Expansion: First distribution in West Virginia (Eastern Panhandle)
Distribution-First Strategy: A strong “density-builder” partner to grow availability market by market
Top-Tier Partner: Authorized Anheuser-Busch wholesaler with nearly 400 accounts, close to 1 million cases delivered annually, and over 65% market share in its territory

Retail & On-Premise Focus: High-frequency routes covering independents, chains, restaurants, and bars
Targeted Rollout: Spring 2026, pending final production scheduling and state approvals

“West Virginia is a values market — hard work, pride in community, and love of country — and that lines up perfectly with who we are,” said Andy Ross, CEO of American Rebel Holdings, Inc. “Jefferson is a top-tier Anheuser-Busch network wholesaler with the routes, relationships, and execution discipline that make brands succeed in the cooler. This partnership helps us build real shelf presence and repeat purchase, one market at a time.”

Jefferson Distributing brings deep local roots and operational excellence to the partnership. The wholesaler operates from Charles Town with more than 30 full-time employees, climate-controlled storage, and a team trained to Cicerone standards. Known for blending major brands with craft and specialty offerings, Jefferson emphasizes professionalism, community involvement, and consistent service across the Eastern Panhandle.

“We’re excited to bring American Rebel Light Beer to West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle with Jefferson Distributing,” said Todd Porter, President of American Rebel Beverage. “This partnership allows us to connect authentically with local retailers, community organizations, and event partners — from hometown independents to college venues — while gathering real feedback and building sustained availability.”
What’s in the Can: A Better-for-You Premium Light Lager

American Rebel Light Beer is a crisp, clean, premium domestic light lager brewed for beer drinkers who want full flavor with a lighter profile and patriotic spirit. Key specs include:

110 calories per 12 oz
4g carbs per 12 oz
4.2% ABV
100% all-malt recipe — no adjuncts, corn syrups, or rice extracts
Cold, extended fermentation for smooth taste and brilliant clarity

Since its launch, American Rebel Light Beer has expanded into 18 states through a Distributor-First strategy focused on strong wholesaler partnerships. The brand is positioned as America’s Patriotic, God-Fearing, Constitution-Loving, National Anthem-Singing, Stand-Your-Ground Beer — celebrating freedom, life, liberty, and the American Dream.

Retailers and on-premise operators in the Eastern Panhandle interested in carrying American Rebel Light Beer should contact Jefferson Distributing’s sales team. POS materials, sampling kits, and co-op marketing support will be available.

For Brewing fun fact, trivia, movies and more, Click Here.

Filed Under: Beer

Oregon Becomes the Latest in Rupee Beer Expansion

March 24, 2026 by Dustin Scoggins

Portland, Maine — Rupee Beer, named Best Beer to Pair with World Food, is a multi-award-winning line of Indian-inspired beers specially crafted to complement Indian, spicy, and global cuisines.

Since launching in 2020, Rupee Beer has stayed true to its mission: reimagining how beer pairs with bold, flavorful global dishes. After successfully entering the Pacific Northwest with its launch in Washington state, Rupee is excited to announce its expansion into Oregon, bringing its total U.S. distribution footprint to 22 states.

A Portfolio Crafted for Global Flavor
Rupee Beer has earned widespread acclaim for its thoughtfully designed lineup, which includes:

Basmati Rice Lager (flagship)
India Pale Ale
Mango Wheat Ale (summer seasonal)
Non-Alcoholic option
Darjeeling Hard Tea

Each beer is brewed to balance and enhance the spices and complexity of Indian and international cuisines. The range was developed in collaboration with legendary master brewer Alan Pugsley, a 40-year industry veteran who has helped launch more than 100 beer brands worldwide.

About the Founders

Brothers Van and Sumit Sharma, sons of Indian restaurateurs with over 50 years in the business, grew up surrounded by the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine. After their family immigrated to Maine from Europe, the brothers noticed a clear gap: reliable, high-quality Indian beer was hard to find in a state often described as one of the least diverse in America.

Following time living in London and Australia, the Sharmas returned to Portland, Maine during the pandemic. Drawing on their family heritage and frustrated by the lack of beers that truly paired well with spicy Indian food, they created Rupee Beer — a fresher, locally crafted alternative designed specifically for bold, global dishes.
Partnering with Alan Pugsley — a British expat in Maine and longtime fan of Indian cuisine — the brothers built Rupee Beer to educate American drinkers on the art of thoughtful beer-and-food pairing.

National Growth Continues

Now distributed in 22 states, including the new addition of Oregon, Rupee Beer remains focused on its core mission: elevating the global dining experience one perfectly paired pint at a time.

About Rupee Beer

Rupee Beer was founded in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic by brothers Van (Vanit) Sharma and Sumit Sharma in Portland, Maine. As sons of Indian restaurateurs who immigrated from London (via Europe) to Maine in the early 1990s and opened some of the state’s first Indian restaurants, the brothers grew up immersed in bold, spicy flavors and the family business. Frustrated by the lack of quality Indian beer options — especially in a then-homogeneous state like Maine — and inspired by their experiences living abroad in London and Australia, they set out to create a better alternative: a crisp, refreshing, lower-carbonation beer specifically designed to pair with Indian, spicy, and global cuisines without overwhelming the food.

Partnering with legendary British expat master brewer Alan Pugsley (a 40+ year veteran who co-founded Shipyard Brewing and has helped launch over 100 brands worldwide), the Sharmas developed their flagship Basmati Rice Lager using traditional Indian-inspired recipes. Launched commercially in 2021 initially as a complement to to-go orders at their family’s Bombay Mahal restaurant, Rupee Beer quickly gained traction for its smooth, food-friendly profile. The brand has since expanded its portfolio to include an India Pale Ale (putting authentic Indian flavors “back” into the style), seasonal Mango Wheat Ale, a Non-Alcoholic option, and Darjeeling Hard Tea.

For Brewing fun fact, trivia, movies and more, Click Here.

Filed Under: Beer, breweries

Montclair Brewery Releases a Tribute to Patrice Lumumba, Lumumba Smoked Ale!

March 24, 2026 by Dustin Scoggins

Montclair Brewery | Microbrewery located in Montclair, NJ

MONTCLAIR, N.J. — Montclair Brewery has launched Lumumba Smoked Ale, the newest addition to its annual Black History Month Beer Series. The beer is now available in the Montclair taproom and through select distribution partners.

The brewery’s Black History Month series celebrates influential Black leaders, culture, history, and resilience through carefully crafted beers. Lumumba Smoked Ale offers a smooth malt profile layered with refined smoky character, delivering a distinctive yet highly approachable drinking experience.

Later this month, the brewery will re-release its Limited Edition Doby Caramel Pale Ale, another standout in the series that honors baseball legend and former Montclair resident Larry Doby. A special Black History Month to-go beer flight featuring a mixed four-pack of beers, along with music and art, will also be part of the month’s celebrations.

Lumumba Smoked Ale pays tribute to Patrice Lumumba, the Congolese nationalist leader who played a pivotal role in ending colonial rule in the Democratic Republic of Congo. He became the country’s first Prime Minister in 1960 and was widely seen as one of Africa’s most promising new voices before his assassination in 1961 amid Cold War tensions. Historians note that his left-leaning politics led him to fall out of favor with Western powers. Today, his legacy remains a powerful symbol of independence, sovereignty, and African self-determination.

The brewery chose to honor Lumumba after renewed global attention during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament. A dedicated Congolese supporter, Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, gained international recognition by attending matches dressed as Lumumba and holding a motionless pose throughout Congo’s games — a living tribute that mirrored the famous Lumumba statue in Kinshasa. The powerful gesture sparked widespread media coverage and brought Lumumba’s historical significance back into the global spotlight.

The beer’s can label features a photo of the well-known Lumumba statue in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s capital, along with a small image of Michel Nkuka Mboladinga.

“As a former football (soccer) player, coach, and lifelong fan of the tournament, seeing that powerful tribute to Lumumba during the matches was incredibly moving,” said Leo Sawadogo, Co-owner and Head Brewer of Montclair Brewery. “Lumumba represents courage, leadership, and the pursuit of independence — values that deserve continued recognition. Creating this beer was our way of honoring that legacy while sharing an important story with our community.”

Both Lumumba Smoked Ale and the returning Doby Caramel Pale Ale will be available in the Montclair Brewery taproom and at select distributors and retail partners while supplies last, offered in cans and on draft.

In addition to the beer releases, Montclair Brewery is hosting a full calendar of Black History Month programming throughout the month, including live performances by musicians connected to the African diaspora and an art exhibition featuring works by Sydnei Smith Jordan on display in the taproom.

This version reads more smoothly and professionally while keeping the spirit and substance of the original intact. Let me know if you’d like a shorter version, a more casual tone, or any specific tweaks!

For Brewing fun fact, trivia, movies and more, Click Here.

Filed Under: Beer, breweries

Lone Tree Announces a new Peach Wheat Ale!

March 24, 2026 by Dustin Scoggins

LONE TREE, Colo. — Lone Tree Brewing has introduced Peach Wheat Ale, now available in cans and on draft throughout Colorado. The refreshing, fruit-forward beer takes the place of the brewery’s longtime flagship, Peach Pale Ale, in its year-round lineup.

The brewing team at Lone Tree has long excelled at incorporating real fruit into its beers, earning multiple awards for the beloved Peach Pale Ale. As consumer demand for juicy, fruit-enhanced beers continues to grow, the brewery is excited to debut this updated recipe—one that honors one of its earliest creations while delivering a fresh, modern take.

Peach Wheat is built on a classic American Wheat Ale foundation, featuring generous additions of real peaches. Bold hop character brings notes of tropical fruit, candied peach, and apricot that perfectly complement the soft wheat and pale malt backbone. It pours a hazy soft orange with a medium body, approachable bitterness, and a clean stone-fruit finish.

“The end of Peach Pale Ale marks the close of an important chapter for us, but we’re thrilled to welcome the brighter, more fruit-forward flavors of this new wheat ale,” said Jerry Siote, Director of Brewhouse Operations at Lone Tree Brewing. “The most successful breweries honor tradition while staying willing to experiment and evolve with customer preferences. Peach Pale played a key role in our growth, teaching us how to balance real fruit with a ‘beer-first’ philosophy. Collaborating with Hopsteiner helped us highlight Alora hops in the new Peach Wheat, which deliver beautiful notes of peach, yuzu, sweet melon, and apricot.”

Peach Wheat is currently available on draft and in 6-packs to go at both Lone Tree Brewing locations in Lone Tree and Parker, as well as at retailers and venues across Colorado.

About Lone Tree Brewing Co.

Founded in 2011, Lone Tree Brewing Company was the first brewery to open in Lone Tree, Colorado, in Denver’s south metro area. More than a decade later, it remains a beloved community staple with two welcoming tasting rooms: the original location near Park Meadows Mall in Lone Tree and the newer Lone Tree Brewing Parker in the heart of Parker, Colorado.
This version keeps the original facts and quotes intact but reads more smoothly and professionally. Let me know if you’d like a shorter version, a more casual tone, or any specific adjustments!

For Brewing fun fact, trivia, movies and more, Click Here.

Filed Under: Beer, breweries

The Cincinnati’s Favorite Beer 2026 – Fretboard’s Vlad Pilsner

March 23, 2026 by Dow Scoggins

The Cincinnati's Favorite Beer 2026 - Fretboard's Vlad Pilsner
Favorite Beer of 2026! Cincinnati just crowned its Favorite Beer of 2026, and the winner is Vlad Pilsner from Fretboard Brewing Co.! That’s right, folks—the crisp, crushable Czech-style pilsner has taken the crown in The Cincinnati Enquirer’s epic beer bracket madness, proving once again that sometimes the classics win the day (and the votes).

In a tournament that felt like March Madness but with way better hydration options, 32 local brews battled it out over five nail-biting rounds. Voters hit refresh like it was their job, casting ballots hourly and turning the bracket into a full-on Cincinnati suds showdown. Vlad didn’t just sneak by—it dominated. In the final round, it racked up a whopping 467 votes to defeat Hofbrauhaus’s Dunkel, leaving no doubt who the people wanted on their taps.

What makes Vlad so special? This isn’t some flashy triple IPA trying to blind you with hops. Vlad is the original brew from Fretboard—the very first batch they ever made back when the Blue Ash spot (the one with the killer music theme, because who doesn’t love guitars and good beer?) fired up their system. It’s a true-to-style International Pilsner at a sessionable 5.3% ABV and a gentle 17 IBUs, brewed with imported Czech malt and hops for that clean, bready backbone and subtle herbal pop. Golden, crisp, ruthlessly drinkable—it’s the beer you reach for on a sunny patio, at a Reds game, or when you’re just chilling in the Queen City.

And let’s talk accolades: Vlad’s already a medal magnet, snagging gold and silver at the World Beer Cup, Ohio Craft Brewers Cup, and U.S. Open Beer Championship. Now you can add “Cincinnati’s Favorite Beer 2026” to the trophy case. Fretboard’s rocking the local scene hard—#drinklocal, #rocklocal, #cincybrau—and this win feels like a high-five to everyone who loves a perfectly executed lager over the latest hazy experiment.

So next time you’re in Cincinnati, swing by Fretboard Brewing Co. (or grab a six-pack wherever they distribute), raise a glass of Vlad, and toast to the people’s champ. Because in a city with more breweries than you can shake a pretzel at, the crowd has spoken: Vlad reigns supreme.
Cheers to Vlad Pilsner—Cincinnati’s undisputed beer king of 2026

Previous Winners of The Cincinnati Enquirer’s epic beer bracket madness
2026: Vlad Pilsner from Fretboard Brewing Co.
2025: Crazy Norse from Barleycorn’s Brewhouse
2024: Crazy Norse from Barleycorn’s Brewhouse
2023: Helles Real from Grainworks Brewing Co.
2022: Bohemian Special Brew from Wiedemann
2021: Bohemian Special Brew from Wiedemann
2020: Backbeat Coffee Blonde Ale from Big Ash Brewing

More about Fretboard Brewing
Fretboard Brewing Company burst onto the Cincinnati scene in late 2017, when three lifelong friends and LaSalle High School alumni decided to turn their shared passions for rock ‘n’ roll and craft beer into something extraordinary. Launching their flagship brewery and taproom in Blue Ash, Ohio—just a short drive north of downtown Cincy—the trio created a one-of-a-kind destination where live music, smoked BBQ from an in-house kitchen, and seriously impressive brews come together in perfect harmony. From day one, Fretboard has been all about striking the right chord: welcoming beer lovers, music fans, and good-time seekers to a vibrant space that feels like a backyard concert meets your favorite local brewery. With additional locations now rocking in Norwood, Harrison, and a Public House in Hamilton, Fretboard continues to expand its rhythm while staying true to its roots of adventure, creativity, and community.

At the heart of every great night at Fretboard are the beers—crisp, balanced, and built to please a crowd. The star of the show is Vlad Pilsner, a ruthlessly drinkable Czech-style pilsner that’s racked up Gold and Silver medals at the World Beer Cup and U.S. Open Beer Championship, proving it’s not just fun—it’s world-class. Other crowd-pleasers include the hop-forward flagship Improv West Coast IPA, the easy-sipping Fretboard Light Lager perfect for long sessions, and seasonal favorites like juicy hazies, barrel-aged stouts, and festive lagers. Whether you’re raising a pint to a live band, digging into some smoky BBQ, or simply toasting another great day, Fretboard Brewing delivers that unbeatable combo of killer brews, electric vibes, and pure fun. Come for the beer, stay for the show—Fretboard is where Cincinnati’s craft scene hits all the high notes!
Address: Multiple locations including Blue Ash (flagship), Norwood, Harrison, and Hamilton Public House, Ohio
Website: https://www.fretboardbrewing.com

 

For Brewing fun fact, trivia, movies and more, Click Here.

 

Filed Under: Beer, Beer Competition

  • Page 1
  • Page 2
  • Page 3
  • Go to Next Page »

Primary Sidebar

Follow us

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

2025 U.S. Open Beer Championship  
Medal Winners

 
2024 U.S. Open Cider Championship  
Medal Winners

Archives

  • April 2026
  • March 2026
  • February 2026
  • January 2026
  • December 2025
  • November 2025
  • October 2025
  • September 2025
  • August 2025
  • July 2025
  • June 2025
  • May 2025
  • April 2025
  • March 2025
  • February 2025
  • January 2025
  • December 2024
  • November 2024
  • October 2024
  • September 2024
  • August 2024
  • July 2024
  • May 2024
  • April 2024
  • March 2024
  • November 2023
  • October 2023
  • August 2023
  • July 2023
  • June 2023
  • May 2023
  • April 2023
  • October 2022
  • May 2022
  • February 2022
  • January 2022
  • June 2021
  • March 2021
  • December 2020
  • September 2020
  • August 2020
  • July 2020
  • June 2020
  • February 2020
  • November 2019
  • February 2019
  • May 2018
  • April 2018

Copyright © 2026 · BeerInfo.com. All Rights Reserved.