Dow Scoggins

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.

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Top 10 Maibocks Brewed in America – 2026

March 26, 2026 by Dow Scoggins

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

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

March 23, 2026 by Dow Scoggins

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

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Chicago Breweries Unite: Half Acre and Maplewood Merge to Forge a New Beverage Future

March 12, 2026 by Dow Scoggins

Chicago(March 12) In a move that signals both resilience and ambition in Chicago’s craft beverage industry, Half Acre Beer Company and Maplewood Brewery & Distillery have announced their merger, creating a unified company poised to navigate the evolving market landscape. The partnership, revealed on March 10, 2026, combines two of the city’s most beloved independent breweries into a “premier Chicago beverage company” that promises to preserve their individual identities while expanding into new territories.

Half Acre Beer Company, founded in 2007 and headquartered in Bowmanville, has long been a staple of Chicago’s craft beer scene with its iconic Daisy Cutter Pale Ale and a focus on innovative, hop-forward brews. The brewery operates a spacious production facility and taproom, known for its community events and artistic collaborations.

Meanwhile, Maplewood Brewery & Distillery, established in 2014 in Logan Square, brings a diverse portfolio to the table, including award-winning beers like Son of Juice IPA, as well as spirits, hop waters, and THC-infused non-alcoholic seltzers. Their lounge-style taproom emphasizes a relaxed vibe, complete with cocktails and small bites, reflecting a broader approach to beverages beyond traditional beer.

The merger comes at a challenging time for the craft beer sector, with several Chicago breweries—such as Alarmist, Casa Humilde, Illuminated Brew Works, and Whiner—announcing closures in early 2026 amid declining sales and shifting consumer preferences. However, leaders from both companies emphasize that this union is proactive, born from strength rather than desperation. “We combine as individually strong, complementary businesses that share similar visions for the future of our industry and city,” the owners stated in a joint social media announcement.
Under the new structure, the yet-to-be-named entity will maintain separate operations for Half Acre and Maplewood, ensuring their brands, taprooms, and product lines remain distinct. Kevin McGillen, Half Acre’s president and chief operating officer, is slated to become the CEO of the combined company once the deal finalizes in the coming weeks. This setup allows Maplewood to bring all brewing in-house using Half Acre’s larger facilities, ending reliance on contract production and streamlining efficiencies.

The strategic focus extends beyond beer, aiming to capitalize on growth areas like THC beverages, restaurant operations, and non-alcoholic options. Half Acre President Kevin McGillen described the merger as an opportunity to thrive in a “tumultuous” marketplace, noting the combined portfolio’s potential for innovation in spirits and alternative drinks. Industry observers see this as part of a broader consolidation wave, but one that avoids turning the new company into just “a collection of brands,” instead building a robust platform committed to Chicago’s beverage heritage.

Public reaction has been largely positive, with social media buzzing about the potential for collaborative brews and expanded offerings. On platforms like Reddit, fans expressed relief that the merger prevents potential closures, hailing both breweries as “great” additions to the city’s scene. Beer bloggers and enthusiasts speculate on future synergies, from joint events to new product lines that blend Half Acre’s bold flavors with Maplewood’s distilling expertise.

As Chicago’s craft industry continues to adapt—facing competition from national conglomerates, changing tastes toward low-alcohol and wellness-focused drinks, and economic pressures—this merger stands as a beacon of collaboration. For locals and visitors alike, it ensures that the spirit of independent brewing endures, even as the market demands evolution. With the deal expected to close soon, beer lovers can raise a glass to what promises to be an exciting chapter in the Windy City’s storied beverage history.

About Half Acre Brewing
Half Acre Beer Company, one of Chicago’s pioneering craft breweries, was founded in 2007 by Gabriel Magliaro, who initially contract-brewed beers like Half Acre Lager at a facility in Wisconsin before establishing its own roots in the city. In 2008, the brewery opened on Lincoln Avenue in North Center with used equipment, and by 2009, it introduced its iconic flagship Daisy Cutter Pale Ale—a bold, hop-forward West Coast-style pale ale that became a Chicago staple and helped define the local scene’s raw, intense approach to American microbrews. The company expanded significantly in 2013 by acquiring a larger production facility on Balmoral Avenue in Bowmanville, enabling greater distribution and innovation. Today, Half Acre’s year-round lineup includes crowd-pleasers like Daisy Cutter, the crisp Pony Pilsner, the lighter Half Acre Light Lager (at just 99 calories), and Bodem India Pale Ale, alongside a rotating selection of seasonal, limited, and barrel-aged offerings that showcase purposeful roughness and creative hop selections—making it a go-to for beer lovers seeking authentic, flavorful Chicago craft beer.

About Maplewood Brewing and Distilling
Maplewood Brewery & Distillery, a trailblazing Chicago craft beverage producer located in the vibrant Logan Square neighborhood, traces its roots to homebrewing and distilling experiments by founders Adam Cieslak and Ari Megalis as far back as 2005 in basements and makeshift setups. Officially launching in 2013 and opening for production in September 2014 (with the lounge-style taproom following in 2017), Maplewood became the first establishment in Illinois to combine brewing and distilling under one roof, emphasizing innovative, award-winning beers alongside handcrafted spirits. Its flagship lineup shines with hazy, juicy standouts like the tropical-fruit bomb Son of Juice IPA (loaded with Mosaic and Simcoe hops), the balanced Charlatan American Pale Ale, the crisp Pulaski Pils Chicago-style lager, and the rich Fat Pug Oatmeal Milk Stout, complemented by rotating seasonal and limited releases. On the spirits side, offerings include creative gins like Spruce Gin with Colorado spruce tips, whiskeys such as Fat Pug American Malt Whiskey, rye whiskeys, bourbons, and more, plus innovative non-alcoholic options like THC-infused seltzers—making Maplewood a go-to destination for diverse, high-quality Chicago craft beer and spirits enthusiasts seeking bold flavors and boundary-pushing creativity.

Green Beer Day at Miami University: The Ultimate Guide to Oxford’s Wildest Tradition

March 12, 2026 by Dow Scoggins

Green Beer Day at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, is that wild, can’t-miss college tradition that leaves students at other schools wondering why their campus doesn’t have anything half as legendary. Imagine this: spring semester is humming along, classes are on the schedule for a random Thursday in March (right before spring break kicks in March 23-29, 2026), but by the time the first light hits, half the RedHawks are already lined up outside bars, clutching neon-green pints like it’s the most important sunrise of the year. Welcome to Green Beer Day (GBD) — Miami’s totally unofficial, university hands-off, but straight-up iconic boozy twist on St. Patrick’s Day that turns sleepy Oxford into party central.

The Origin Story: How a Calendar Glitch Became a Legend
Back in the early 1980s, Miami University’s academic calendar pulled a sneaky move and shoved St. Patrick’s Day into spring break. Students were gone, bars were empty, and Oxford’s bar owners weren’t about to let that cash cow vanish. They brainstormed names like “Wild Irish Fun” (1981 vibes), then landed on the straightforward winner: Green Beer Day in 1982. What started as a clever way to keep the taps flowing has evolved into Miami’s biggest drinking holiday — a full-day rager that’s part tradition, part rite of passage, and 100% chaos.

The university? They pretend it doesn’t exist as an official thing. It’s off-campus, not endorsed, and profs are encouraged to hold normal classes (with attendance checks and graded stuff to guilt-trip you into showing up sober). But let’s be real — everyone knows what’s up.

The Day Unfolds: From Dawn ‘Til… Whenever
GBD kicks off ridiculously early. Bars like the iconic Brick Street (the spot everyone talks about) throw open their doors around 5:30 a.m., with lines already snaking down High Street. Students bundle up in green gear, hoodies, and questionable decisions, ready to watch the sunrise with a pint of artificially (or magically) green beer in hand. Pro tip from veterans: the sunrise from a Brick patio is apparently next-level.

From there, it’s a marathon:

Morning bar hops — Green drafts flowing, specials galore, and that classic college energy where everyone’s best friends by 7 a.m.
Darties (day parties) in backyards — Tarps, string lights, DJs on platforms, and playlists blasting whatever gets the crowd hyped.
Borgs (blackout rage gallons — water jugs turned into personal kegs), ragers, and shenanigans that spill into the afternoon and night.
Bonus modern twists: ginger runs, themed merch drops, and enough green apparel to make the whole town look like a lime exploded.

It’s not just about the beer (though the green-dyed stuff — once hand-mixed with food coloring, now often truck-delivered pre-green — is the star). It’s the vibes: bonding with friends, making questionable memories, and like you’re part of something bigger than just another Thursday.

Safety, Smarts, and the Real Talk
Miami and Oxford team up every year with safety pushes — extra patrols, forums, alternative events, and free breakfasts uptown for those opting out. Police are out in force on High Street and around campus hotspots. The message is clear: have fun, but don’t be dumb. Underage folks? The FOMO is real, but there are plenty of non-drinking ways to join the spirit (or just Netflix and chill while everyone else recovers).

Why GBD Rules the Miami Experience
In a sea of college traditions, Green Beer Day stands out because it’s raw, ridiculous, and uniquely Oxford. It’s been called Miami’s “biggest tradition” for a reason — even seniors who skipped it feel the blues, like they missed a core piece of the RedHawk journey. It’s the day when the whole town pulses with that perfect mix of excitement, absurdity, and camaraderie.

So if you’re ever in Oxford the Thursday before spring break, grab your crew, your greenest outfit, and dive in. Just remember: hydrate (with water too), pace yourself, and maybe set an alarm for that 8 a.m. class… or don’t. No judgment here.

Cheers to Green Beer Day — the holiday that turns a sleepy college town into party central, one green pint at a time.

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Cincinnati’s Bockfest – Largest Bockfest in America

March 6, 2026 by Dow Scoggins

Cincinnati’s Bockfest is one of the city’s most unique and irreverent annual celebrations, blending its rich German brewing heritage, the arrival of spring, and a love for bock beer. It’s held in the historic Over-the-Rhine (OTR) neighborhood, once home to dozens of breweries in the 1800s when Cincinnati was a major U.S. brewing hub.

History
Bock beer itself has deep roots: German monks brewed hearty, malty bock lagers during Lent to sustain them through fasting (higher in nutrition and alcohol to help endure the period). “Bock” means “goat” in German, and folklore ties the name to a monk blaming a goat for his drunken stumble rather than the beer’s potency. Pre-Prohibition, Cincinnati breweries released bock beers in spring as seasonal staples.

The modern festival started in 1993 (now in its 34th year as of 2026). Hudepohl-Schoenling Brewing Company launched a Christian Moerlein Bock beer (reviving a historic brand) and turned the release into a community event to celebrate Cincinnati’s brewing past. They partnered with Over-the-Rhine residents, bar owners, and groups like Merchants of Main Street to create Bockfest. It began small—under 600 attendees in year one—but grew into a major tradition.

The festival nearly faded after Hudepohl’s production moved out of state in the late 1990s, but it was revived in the mid-2000s by local enthusiasts and tied loosely to Mardi Gras vibes for extra flair. Greg Hardman later brought Christian Moerlein back to Cincinnati, helping solidify Bockfest Hall (now at spots like the Moerlein Lager House). Today, it’s community-led, free to attend, and features multiple venues in OTR.

The Parade
The Cincinnait’s Bockfest Parade kicks off the weekend on Friday evening (typically around 6 p.m.), starting at Arnold’s Bar and Grill—Cincinnati’s oldest saloon (opened in 1861) and a fitting launch point since it was the first to serve the revived Moerlein Bock in the 20th century.

The parade marches north into Over-the-Rhine, ending near historic spots like Old St. Mary’s Church. It’s famously quirky and “the funkiest parade in Cincinnati”—no standard floats or fire trucks here. Instead, expect creative, beer-themed entries like faux monks, “Trojan goats,” GoatBusters, keg-men, goats on Segways, German bands, and chants like “drink more beer.” A highlight: It’s led by a real goat pulling a miniature keg of Christian Moerlein Emancipator Doppelbock (or similar), which gets ceremoniously tapped at the end to mark the official start of the festivities. The reigning Sausage Queen often joins as a marshal.

Fun Facts
Goat obsession: Goats are everywhere—symbolizing “bock” (goat). The parade goat is a star, and past entries have included elaborate goat-related themes. Legend says monks blamed goats for beer-induced wobbles.
Sausage Queen: There’s a playful pageant for the “Sausage Queen,” adding campy royalty to the beer focus.
Attendance growth: From a tiny launch to drawing 20,000–30,000+ people in recent years.
Oldest bock fest: It’s the oldest German-style bock beer festival in the United States.
Irreverent vibe: It’s a mix of German Renaissance flair, monks in robes (borrowed early on from local friars), and pure fun—perfect for blaming any post-fest mishaps on “the goat.”

Bockfest runs over a weekend (e.g., March 6-8 in 2026), with free entry to events, bock beers on tap at venues like Arnold’s, Moerlein Lager House, Rhinegeist, and others, plus music, food, and more. It’s a true Cincinnati original—cheers to spring and heritage! Prost!

Places to go for the Cincinnati Bockfest

Here are the 5 official Bockfest Halls for the 34th Annual Servatii Bockfest in Cincinnati (March 6-8, 2026), along with their official websites for more details on events, menus, specials, and schedules during the festival. These are confirmed from the official Bockfest site (bockfest.com) and venue pages.

Arnold’s Bar and Grill
210 East 8th Street (Downtown)
Website: https://www.arnoldsbarandgrill.com/
Moerlein Lager House
115 Joe Nuxhall Way (Downtown)
Website: https://www.moerleinlagerhouse.com/
Northern Row Brewery & Distillery
111 West McMicken Avenue (Over-the-Rhine)
Website: https://www.northernrow.com/
Rhinegeist Brewery
1910 Elm Street (Over-the-Rhine)
Website: https://rhinegeist.com/
Rosedale OTR
208 East 12th Street (Over-the-Rhine)
Website: https://www.rosedaleotr.com/

All halls are free to enter, with bock beer specials, live music, food, and unique events throughout the weekend. For the full Bockfest schedule and participating venues, check https://www.bockfest.com/official-venues.html. Enjoy the festivities—prost! 🍻

For more Bockfest Fun, Here are the Top 10 Bockfest in the USA

Orval Beer Day: A Toast to Tradition

March 3, 2026 by Dow Scoggins

In the rolling hills of Belgium’s Gaume region, nestled within the ancient walls of the Abbaye Notre-Dame d’Orval, a special day unfolds each spring—Orval Beer Day. Celebrated annually, this event honors the legendary Orval Trappist Ale, a beer unlike any other, brewed with devotion by the Trappist monks since 1931. On March 26th, 2016, and in the years that followed, beer enthusiasts across the globe raised their chalices to celebrate this unique brew, its rich history, and the timeless story of the abbey.

The tale begins with Countess Matilda of Tuscany, who, in the 13th century, lost her wedding ring in a spring while visiting the “Golden Valley” (Orval). Heartbroken, she prayed for its return. Moments later, a trout emerged from the water, the ring in its mouth, inspiring the abbey’s iconic fish-and-ring symbol that graces every bottle of Orval today. This legend, woven into the abbey’s identity, sets the stage for a beer that’s as storied as it is flavorful.

Orval Beer Day is a nod to the beer’s singular place in the world of Trappist brewing. Unlike other Trappist monasteries that craft multiple styles, Orval produces just one commercial beer—a Belgian Pale Ale with a sunset-orange hue, a foamy head, and a complex flavor born from dry-hopping and wild Brettanomyces yeast. At 6.2% ABV (sometimes reaching 6.9% with aging), it’s a beer that evolves in the bottle, gaining nuance over years, much like a fine wine. Its tart, fruity notes, earthy spices, and hoppy, dry finish make it a favorite among brewers and drinkers alike, from Belgian monks to American craft beer pioneers like Vinnie Cilurzo of Russian River Brewing.

On this day, bars across the United States and beyond pour Orval in its signature skittle-shaped bottles, designed by architect Henry Vaes to keep sediment at bay. The beer’s chalice, also crafted by Vaes, enhances its aromas—think leather, citrus, and forest herbs—while maintaining that perfect head. In 2019, over 600 U.S. accounts joined the celebration, with proceeds from sales supporting local charities, a nod to the Trappist tradition of giving back. At the abbey, a lighter version, Orval Vert, is served to monks and visitors, but it’s the flagship Orval that steals the show, sipped reverently in quiet taverns or lively gatherings.

Picture a cozy pub on Orval Beer Day: friends clink glasses, marveling at the beer’s cloudy glow and funky, farmhouse tang. A first-timer might say, “It’s like drinking a forest in autumn!” while a seasoned fan nods, savoring the bitter aftertaste. The day isn’t just about the beer—it’s about connection, history, and the monks’ quiet dedication to craft and charity. As the sun sets, someone raises a toast: “To Orval, to Matilda’s trout, and to good company!” And in that moment, the spirit of the Golden Valley lives on, one sip at a time.

Top 10 Bockfest Festivals in America plus a few more

February 25, 2026 by Dow Scoggins

Get ready to raise your steins and chase away winter at the best bock beer festivals in the USA—these epic spring celebrations of rich, malty doppelbocks, crisp maibocks, and quirky German traditions are pure beer-lover heaven! From Cincinnati’s massive Bockfest (March 6-8, 2026) with its legendary goat-led keg parade drawing thousands, to New Ulm’s cozy Schell’s Bock Fest (March 7, 2026) featuring bonfires and hot-poked caramel bock, and Pottstown’s hilarious Sly Fox Goat Races (first Sunday in May) where the winning goat names the maibock—these top bockfests blend hearty lagers, live polka, brats, and unforgettable goat antics for the ultimate toast to warmer days ahead. Prost to the most fun, flavorful bock bashes across America!

Bockfest (Cincinnati, Ohio) – March 6-8, 2026
Get ready to goat wild at America’s biggest and oldest bock beer festival! Held in historic Over-the-Rhine, Cincinnati’s Bockfest kicks off spring with a hilarious goat-led parade pulling a keg of doppelbock, tons of local craft bock beers flowing freely, heritage tours, live music, and thousands of cheerful revelers toasting Cincinnati’s brewing legacy—it’s the ultimate bock party you don’t want to miss!
Address: Multiple venues in Over-the-Rhine (main events around Bockfest Hall, e.g., 1811 Vine Street)
Website: https://www.bockfest.com/

August Schell’s Bock Fest (New Ulm, Minnesota) – March 7, 2026
Bundle up for a Midwest classic at one of America’s oldest family-owned breweries! Schell’s Bock Fest is all about poking hot irons into your caramel-rich bock beer for extra flavor, massive bonfires to chase away winter, bratwursts grilling nonstop, a wild bock medallion scavenger hunt, live polka tunes, and crowds singing “Ring of Fire”—pure German gemütlichkeit and the perfect way to welcome spring with strong, smooth bock lagers!
Address: 1860 Schell Road, New Ulm, MN 56073
Website: https://www.schellsbrewery.com/events/bockfest/

Sly Fox Bock Fest & Goat Race (Pottstown, Pennsylvania) – First Sunday in May (May 3, 2026)
Who needs horse racing when you’ve got goats? Sly Fox’s legendary Bock Fest & Goat Race turns spring into a hilarious spectacle with real live goat races—the winner even names the brewery’s special maibock! Pair that with ice-cold German-style bocks, polka dancing, brats, and massive crowds cheering under the sun for one of the most fun, family-friendly bock beer festivals in the USA.
Address: 331 Circle of Progress Drive, Pottstown, PA 19464
Website: https://www.slyfoxbeer.com/bockfest

Capital Brewery Bockfest (Middleton, Wisconsin) – February 28, 2026
Shake off winter chills at Capital Brewery’s epic outdoor Bockfest! Celebrate the tapping of platinum award-winning Blonde Doppelbock and Maibock with quirky traditions like the fish toss, a 1K “Running of the Blondes” in silly outfits, live music, food trucks, and steins raised high—it’s Middleton’s backyard party where strong bock beers and Midwest fun make spring feel unbeatable!
Address: 7734 Terrace Avenue, Middleton, WI 53562
Website: https://www.capitalbrewery.com/

Big Bear Lake Maifest (Big Bear Lake, California) – Typically mid-to-late May
Trade snow for sunny spring vibes at Big Bear Lake’s Maifest, a multi-weekend Bavarian bash that’s like Oktoberfest’s cheerful little sister! Twirl around traditional Maypole dances, sip imported maibocks and refreshing Maibowle punch, feast on authentic German grub, and soak in live music amid mountain views—perfect for bock beer fans craving a scenic, festive escape.
Address: Big Bear Lake Convention Center, 42900 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Website: https://bigbearevents.com/big-bear-lake-maifest/

German-American Society Bock Fest (Pinellas Park, Florida) – Typically spring
Warm-weather bock lovers rejoice! The German-American Society’s Bock Fest brings ceremonial doppelbock tappings, specialty pours from local breweries, hearty German food, lively music, and sunny community cheers to Pinellas Park—it’s a laid-back Florida twist on classic bock traditions where strong lagers and good times flow under palm trees.
Address: 8098 66th Street North, Pinellas Park, FL 33781
Website: https://germantampabay.com/bockfest/

Sacramento Turn Verein Bockbierfest (Sacramento, California) – Typically mid-April
Dive into authentic Bavarian bliss at Sacramento’s historic Turn Verein, where Bockbierfest celebrates dark, malty bock beers imported straight from Germany alongside homemade eats, polka bands, folk dancing, wine, champagne, and a cozy Kaffeehaus—it’s the capital’s most genuine spring bock gathering for raising steins and feeling fröhlich!
Address: 3349 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95816
Website: https://sacramentoturnverein.com/bockbierfest/

Plattduetsche Park Maibock Festival (Franklin Square, New York) – Typically spring
Spring blooms deliciously at Plattduetsche Park’s Maibock Festival, featuring a custom-brewed golden maibock paired with a massive hot-and-cold buffet, live Bavarian bands, and biergarten vibes on Long Island—grab your lederhosen for this tasty tribute to lighter bock styles and German hospitality!
Address: 1132 Hempstead Turnpike, Franklin Square, NY 11010
Website: https://www.parkrestaurant.com/

NuLu Bock Fest (Louisville, Kentucky) – March 28, 2026
Goat races meet great bock beers in Louisville’s trendy NuLu neighborhood! This street party features adult and baby goat dashes down “Nanny Goat Strut,” local craft bock pours, live music, vendor fun, and the “Best of the Wurst” contest—it’s quirky Kentucky energy at its bock-loving best.
Address: 600-700 blocks of East Market Street, Louisville, KY 40202
Website: https://www.nulu.org/BockFest

Beaver Island Brewing Maibock Fest (St. Cloud, Minnesota) – Typically May
Welcome spring the Minnesota way at Beaver Island’s casual Maibock Fest: fresh maibock releases on tap, juicy brats sizzling, yard games, commemorative glasses, and everyone encouraged to rock lederhosen or dirndls—it’s a relaxed taproom bash bursting with bock beer cheer and community spirit!
Address: 216 6th Avenue S, St. Cloud, MN 56301
Website: https://beaverislandbrew.com/

Schulz Bräu Brewing Maifest (Knoxville, Tennessee) – Typically mid-May
Southern hospitality meets German roots at Schulz Bräu’s Maifest: fresh maibock tappings, local vendors (think plants, crafts, and farms), cocktails, live music, and plenty of prost-ing—Knoxville’s springtime bock bash is pure fun in an authentic brewery setting.
Address: 126 Bernard Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37917
Website: https://www.schulzbraubrewing.com/maifest/

Lakefront Brewery Bockfest (Milwaukee, Wisconsin) – Typically spring
Milwaukee’s lager legacy shines at Lakefront Brewery’s Bockfest, pouring hearty maibocks and doppelbocks alongside brewery tours, classic German bites, live tunes, and that unbeatable beer hall atmosphere—perfect for bock enthusiasts in America’s brewing heartland.
Address: 1872 N Commerce Street, Milwaukee, WI 53212
Website: https://lakefrontbrewery.com/

Summit Brewing Bockfest (St. Paul, Minnesota) – Typically late winter/spring
Cozy up to bonfires and hot-poked bock beers at Summit Brewing’s winter-to-spring Bockfest in St. Paul—strong seasonal releases, food trucks, live entertainment, and Twin Cities camaraderie make it a frosty-yet-fiery celebration of Minnesota’s bock traditions.
Address: 910 Montreal Circle, St. Paul, MN 55102
Website: https://www.summitbrewing.com/

Liars Bench Beer Co. Bockfest (Portsmouth, New Hampshire) – Typically late March/early April
New England’s craft scene gets bock-y at Liars Bench’s multi-brewery Bockfest, showcasing classic doppelbocks to creative twists, goat-inspired dishes, German lagers galore, and Northeast flair—it’s a flavorful fest for adventurous bock beer hunters!
Address: 459 Islington Street, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Website: https://www.liarsbenchbeer.com/events-1

Sprankle Woods Maifest (Ohio/Pennsylvania border area)
Channel old-school German-American vibes at this community Maifest with ceremonial maibock keg tappings, colorful Maypole dances, polka bands pumping the energy, and traditional festivities—it’s a hidden gem for bock beer fans seeking heartfelt spring celebrations near the Ohio border.
Address: 340 Riemer Road, Winfield/Jefferson Township area (near Ohio border)
Website:https://spranklewoods.com/

Top 10 Beers in America – Ales Lagers Specialty Barrel Aged

2026 Texas Craft Brewers Cup – Medal Winners and Breweries of the Year

February 23, 2026 by Dow Scoggins

The 90 medals—gold, silver, and bronze—were awarded across 30 categories, recognizing 56 outstanding breweries. Medals were presented as custom, Texas-sized bolo ties during a celebratory closing ceremony at the Guild’s Annual Meeting on February 21, 2026, in Austin.

Texas Breweries of the Year
Brewery of the Year honors, determined by cumulative medal points (3 for gold, 2 for silver, 1 for bronze) and divided by production size, went to:

Under 620 bbl Group: Bird Creek Brewing Company (Temple, TX), which earned multiple medals including golds in Session and Standard Hoppy Pale Ales and Lagers.
620+ bbl Group: Altstadt Brewery (Fredericksburg, TX), a standout in traditional German styles with strong showings in lagers and wheat beers.

Texas Craft Brewers Cup Medal Winners
German Pilsner
Gold: Neu! Pils – Hold Out Brewing (Austin)
Silver: Altstadt Pils – Altstadt Brewery (Fredericksburg)
Bronze: Meanwhile Pilsner – Meanwhile Brewing Company (Austin)

American and International Pilsner
Gold: Darlin’ – Meanwhile Brewing Company (Austin)
Silver: 12 Degree – Pecan Street Brewing Co. (Johnson City)
Bronze: Magical Pils – Pinthouse Brewing (Austin)

American & International Light Lager
Gold: Hill Country Light – Roughhouse Brewing (San Marcos)
Silver: Icy Boys – Zilker Brewing Company (Austin)
Bronze: Cerveza TX – Save the World Brewing Co. (Marble Falls)

American & International Lager
Gold: Lucha Libre – Flix Brewhouse (San Antonio)
Silver: Kokuyoseki – Obsidian Brewery (Leander)
Bronze: American Lager – Central Machine Works Brewery (Austin)

Golden, Blond, & Light Ales
Gold: Hijack – Untraditional Cream Ale – Infamous Brewing Company (Austin)
Silver: Mardi Gras Blonde – Galveston Island Brewing (Galveston)
Bronze: Honey Blonde – Frontyard Brewing (Spicewood)

Kölsch
Gold: Fahlgelb – Bronson & Ryder Brewing (Llano)
Silver: Haygrazer – Hound Song Brewing Co. (Columbus)
Bronze: The Big German – Rollertown Beerworks (Frisco)

Session and Standard Lagers
Gold: Altstadt Lager – Altstadt Brewery (Fredericksburg)
Silver: DeadBeach Lager – Deadbeach Brewery (El Paso)
Bronze: Karnstein – Acopon Brewing Company (Dripping Springs)

Session and Standard Dark Lagers
Gold: Lettie – Dorćol Distilling and Brewing (San Antonio)
Silver: Shadow Cat – White Rock Brewing Company (Dallas)
Bronze: Hesky Czesky – Hold Out Brewing (Austin)

Strong Lagers
Gold: Buckstin Helles Export – Buckstin Brewing Company (Beaumont)
Silver: Decorator – Talyard Brewing Co (Sugar Land)
Bronze: Doppelbock – Denton County Brewing Company (Denton)

Classic UK Styles
Gold: Black Jack Brown – Four Bullets Brewery (Richardson)
Silver: Royal Scandal – Peticolas Brewing Company (Dallas)
Bronze: Cuffnells – Acopon Brewing Company (Dripping Springs)

Stout & Porter
Gold: Dark Side of the Moo – The Brewtorium Brewery & Kitchen (Austin)
Silver: Flat Penny – Bird Creek Brewing Company (Temple)
Bronze: Cape Fear – Bronson & Ryder Brewing (Llano)

Session and Standard Hoppy Pale Ales and Lagers
Gold: Bare Bones Disco – Bird Creek Brewing Company (Temple)
Silver: Galactic Grackle – Bird Creek Brewing Company (Temple)
Bronze: FIOR – Batch (Austin)

IPA
Gold: Nose Jelly – Pinthouse Brewing (Austin)
Silver: Waka Waka – Bird Creek Brewing Company (Temple)
Bronze: Scorpion Disco – Pinthouse Brewing (Austin)

Hazy IPA
Gold: Heavenly Daze – Zilker Brewing Company (Austin)
Silver: Electric Jellyfish – Pinthouse Brewing (Austin)
Bronze: Space Terrarium – Pinthouse Brewing (Austin)

Strong IPA
Gold: Sparkle & Ruin – Meanwhile Brewing Company (Austin)
Silver: Heavy Machinery Double IPA – Austin Beerworks (Austin)
Bronze: Magnets, How Do They Work? – Good Line Beer Co (Lubbock)

Specialty IPA
Gold: Misty Lady – Bear King Brewing Co. (Marble Falls)
Silver: Bloodwork Orange – Austin Beerworks (Austin)
Bronze: Billy Goat in Belgium – Back Unturned Brewing Co (San Antonio)

Amber and Dark Beers
Gold: Shovelhead Amber Ale – Belly Up Brew Pub (Fredericksburg)
Silver: Mean Girlz – Project Halo Brewing (Fulshear)
Bronze: Brown Chicken Brown Cow – Galveston Island Brewing (Galveston)

Barleywine & Strong Ale
Gold: Romanov’s Revenge – Maple Branch Craft Brewery (Fort Worth)
Silver: Id – St Elmo (Austin)
Bronze: Danger Noodle Island – Save the World Brewing Co. (Marble Falls)

Belgian & Farmhouse Ales
Gold: Passive Dissent – False Idol Brewing (North Richland Hills)
Silver: Le Saison – Vista Brewing (Driftwood)
Bronze: Jedburgh – Longtab Brewing Company (San Antonio)

Belgian Abbey Ales
Gold: 10 for 3 – Nolan Creek Brewery (Belton)
Silver: Chugboat Island – Buckstin Brewing Company (Beaumont)
Bronze: Triple Volunteer – Longtab Brewing Company (San Antonio)

Fruit & Field Beer
Gold: Sweeten The Pot – Four Bullets Brewery (Richardson)
Silver: Sticky Rice and Mango Lager – Obsidian Brewery (Leander)
Bronze: Altstadt Radler – Altstadt Brewery (Fredericksburg)

Chocolate & Coffee
Gold: Subtle Hustle – Grain Theory (Abilene)
Silver: Sludge Factory – Misfit Brewing (Cypress)
Bronze: Devour – Mexican Chocolate – 3 Nations Brewing (Carrollton)

American & European Sour
Gold: Heartbreaker – Deadbeach Brewery (El Paso)
Silver: Bogberry Boombox – The Brewtorium Brewery & Kitchen (Austin)
Bronze: Fruited Little Boss — Pomegranate – Blue Owl Brewing (Austin)

Brett & Mixed Culture
Gold: Montmorency vs. Balaton – Jester King Brewery (Austin)
Silver: Kashmir – Celestial Beerworks (Dallas)
Bronze: Atrial Rubicite – Jester King Brewery (Austin)

Smoke & Chili Beer
Gold: Harissa – Wild Barley Kitchen & Brewery (San Antonio)
Silver: Jalapeño Saison – On Rotation Brewery & Kitchen (Dallas)
Bronze: Schwarzer Rauch – Live Oak Brewing Company (Austin)

Barrel & Wood Aged Beer
Gold: Early Morning Shakes – Paradigm Brewing Company (Tomball)
Silver: Left Handed Hummingbird – Meanwhile Brewing Company (Austin)
Bronze: 40 Watt Reserve – Grain Theory (Abilene)

Experimental, Hybrid & Specialty Beer
Gold: Heritage Common – Old Sheepdog Brewery (El Paso)
Silver: Silver Lining – Talyard Brewing Co (Sugar Land)
Bronze: Blackberry Streussel – Künstler Brewing (San Antonio)

Wheat or Rye
Gold: Altstadt Hefe – Altstadt Brewery (Fredericksburg)
Silver: Hefeweizen – Live Oak Brewing Company (Austin)
Bronze: HighWheel Dunkelweizen – Dorćol Distilling and Brewing (San Antonio)

Decadent Beer
Gold: Suburban Ninja Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Coconut Vanilla and Maple Stout – Red Horn Brewing Co. (Cedar Park)
Silver: Playground Battles – ODD Muse Brewing (Farmer’s Branch)
Bronze: Snacks Ahoy – False Idol Brewing (North Richland Hills)

Legislative ProAm
Gold: Unified – ODD Muse Brewing (Farmer’s Branch)
Silver: Bumgarner Bock – 3 Nations Brewing (Carrollton)
Bronze: Rotunda Rose – Lago Vista Brewing Company (Lago Vista)

More about The Texas Craft Brewers Guild
The Texas Craft Brewers Guild is the hoppy heart and soul of the Lone Star State’s craft beer scene—a nonprofit trade association proudly championing over 300 small and independent breweries across Texas. Think of them as the ultimate beer advocates: they fight tooth and nail (with a side of cold ones) for smarter laws, fairer rules, and a brighter future for local brews through their CraftPAC political action committee and tireless lobbying efforts. From modernizing outdated beer regulations to helping breweries thrive in the massive Texas market, the Guild keeps the good vibes flowing by protecting what makes craft beer special—independence, creativity, and that unmistakable Texas spirit. Whether it’s pushing for taproom freedoms or educating folks on why supporting local matters, they’re the behind-the-scenes heroes ensuring every pint poured tells a story of Lone Star pride.

Beyond the serious stuff, the Guild knows how to throw a legendary party! They organize the wildly popular Texas Craft Brewers Cup (the state’s premier pro beer competition), the massive Texas Craft Brewers Festival featuring hundreds of local brews, and fun community perks like the Texas Brewery Passport™ app that turns beer road trips into an epic statewide adventure. With events, education sessions, networking shindigs, and even a snazzy online store full of merch, the Guild brings brewers and beer lovers together to celebrate the incredible variety—from crisp lagers to wild sours—coming out of Texas taps. If you’re raising a glass to independent craft beer in the biggest state in the Lower 48, you’re basically toasting with the Texas Craft Brewers Guild—cheers to that!
Website: https://texascraftbrewersguild.org/

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2026 Ohio Beer Awards Winners: Inaugural Statewide Craft Beer Competition Results

February 20, 2026 by Dow Scoggins

The 2026 Ohio Beer Awards, the inaugural statewide competition presented by the Ohio Craft Brewers Association and proudly sponsored by Lagersmith, celebrated the exceptional talent and innovation of Ohio’s craft brewers, cider makers, and mead producers. With nearly 500 entries submitted from over 100 breweries, cideries, and meaderies across the Buckeye State, expert judges blind-tasted beers in 26 diverse categories during judging sessions held January 19–21 at MadTree Brewing in Cincinnati. Winners were announced on February 16 at a lively ceremony at Seventh Son Brewing in Columbus, where 47 producers earned well-deserved gold, silver, and bronze medals. Highlights included Masthead Brewing and Noble Beast Brewing (both from Cleveland) sharing Brewery of the Year honors for their standout medal hauls, alongside special recognitions like the Aluminate Award for Best Can Design. This exciting new event shines a spotlight on Ohio’s thriving craft beverage scene, highlighting the quality, creativity, and community spirit that make Buckeye State beers, ciders, and meads among the best in the nation.

Ohio Craft Beer Medal Winners
Category 1: European Pilsner
Gold: Daytonian Rhapsody, Eudora Brewing Company, Kettering, Ohio
Silver: Geist der Glocke, Bell Tower Brewing Co., Kent, Ohio
Bronze: Golem, Gemüt Biergarten, Columbus, Ohio

Category 2: Golden, Blonde and Other Light Ales
Gold: Sampsel House Kölsch, Uniontown Brewing Co., Ashland, Ohio
Silver: Little Kings Cream Ale, Cincinnati Beverage Company, Cincinnati, Ohio
Bronze: Hungarian Pearl, Immigrant Son Brewery, Lakewood, Ohio

Category 3: Hoppy Lagers
Gold: Stinkin Lincoln New Zealand Pilsner, Uniontown Brewing Co., Ashland, Ohio
Silver: IPL Eins, Wooly Pig Farm Brewery, Fresno, Ohio
Bronze: Scusi, Traum Brewing, Upper Sandusky, Ohio

Category 4: Light European Lagers
Gold: Rustic Helles, Wooly Pig Farm Brewery, Fresno, Ohio
Silver: Brewer, Northern Row Brewery & Distillery, Cincinnati, Ohio
Bronze: Lakeshore Lager, Collision Bend Brewing Company, Cleveland, Ohio

Category 5: Dark European Lagers
Gold: Svartalfheim, Masthead Brewing Company, Cleveland, Ohio
Silver: Tmavé Pivo, Birdfish Brewing Company, Columbiana, Ohio
Bronze: Rubezahl, Gemüt Biergarten, Columbus, Ohio

Category 6: World Lagers
Gold: Float Day, Yellow Springs Brewery, Yellow Springs, Ohio
Silver: Shower Beer, Masthead Brewing Company, Cleveland, Ohio
Bronze: Multinational Pilsner, Crooked Can Brewing Company, Hilliard, Ohio

Category 7: Porter and Stout
Gold: Punderson Porter, Bummin’ Beaver Brewery, Chagrin Falls, Ohio
Silver: Shuck Yeah, The 1547 Project, Cortland, Ohio
Bronze: Porter, The Brew Brothers, Columbus, Ohio

Category 8: Classic UK and American Styles
Gold: Old School, Three Tigers Brewing, Granville, Ohio
Silver: All the Leaves, Broadview Brewing Company, Broadview Heights, Ohio
Bronze: Stone Fort, Seventh Son Brewing Co., Columbus, Ohio

Category 9: Belgian Beers, German Wheat Beers and Traditional Brett Beers
Gold: Valor, Noble Beast Brewing Co., Cleveland, Ohio
Silver: Hefeweizen, JAFB Wooster Brewery, Wooster, Ohio
Bronze: Captain Stardust, Yellow Springs Brewery, Yellow Springs, Ohio

Category 10: Red Beers
Gold: Ida Love a Red, Red Wagon Brewing, Columbia Station, Ohio
Silver: Frontline, Akronym Brewing, Akron, Ohio
Bronze: Scot’s an Evil Man, Schnitz Ale Brewery, Parma, Ohio

Category 11: Strong Beers
Gold: Old Dick, New Berlin Brewing Company, North Canton, Ohio
Silver: Brasky, Combustion Brewery & Taproom, Pickerington, Ohio
Bronze: We Don’t Rat, We Don’t Run 2025, Noble Beast Brewing Co., Cleveland, Ohio

Category 12: Sessionable Hoppy Beers
Gold: Henry, Akronym Brewing, Akron, Ohio
Silver: Light Rajah, The Brew Kettle, Middleburg Heights, Ohio
Bronze: Small Axe, Three Tigers Brewing, Granville, Ohio

Category 13: American IPA
Gold: Ca$h After Ten, Ghost Tree Brewing Company, Amherst, Ohio
Silver: Evil Motives, Noble Beast Brewing Co., Cleveland, Ohio
Bronze: JAF IPA, JAFB Wooster Brewery, Wooster, Ohio

Category 14: West Coast IPA
Gold: Danko, Three Tigers Brewing, Granville, Ohio
Silver: The Cleveland Experiment V7, Masthead Brewing Company, Cleveland, Ohio
Bronze: Isolated IPA, JAFB Wooster Brewery, Wooster, Ohio

Category 15: Hazy, Juicy, New England IPA
Gold: Fast Friends, Derive Brewing Company, Columbus, Ohio
Silver: Creative Space, Yellow Springs Brewery, Yellow Springs, Ohio
Bronze: Captain Hazy, Collision Bend Brewing Company, Cleveland, Ohio

Category 16: Imperial IPA and Dark Hoppy Beers
Gold: The Word, Collision Bend Brewing Company, Cleveland, Ohio
Silver: Turtlenecks and Gold Chains, Derive Brewing Company, Columbus, Ohio
Bronze: Now We’re Talkin’, Combustion Brewery & Taproom, Pickerington, Ohio

Category 17: Barrel-Aged Beers
Gold: Celestial Reserve (Dow’s 65th Birthday Blend), Third Eye Brewing Company, Cincinnati, Ohio
Silver: Pounding Husks, Wandering Monsters Brewing, Cincinnati, Ohio
Bronze: Bag of Hammers, Akronym Brewing (in collaboration with The Brew Kettle), Akron, Ohio

Category 18: Barrel-Aged Stout
Gold: Faded Echoes – Ivory Depths, Counterbalance Brewing, Columbus, Ohio
Silver: Underverse, Masthead Brewing Company, Cleveland, Ohio
Bronze: Barrel Aged Cheap Heat, Streetside Brewery, Cincinnati, Ohio

Category 19: Spiced Holiday Beers
Gold: Winter Warmer, New Berlin Brewing Company, North Canton, Ohio
Silver: Slow Toboggan, Brink Brewing Co., Cincinnati, Ohio
Bronze: John Dough, Wandering Monsters Brewing, Cincinnati, Ohio

Category 20: Flavored Beers
Gold: Fox in the Stout, Seventh Son Brewing Co., Columbus, Ohio
Silver: Chunkzilla, Wandering Monsters Brewing, Cincinnati, Ohio
Bronze: Chai Spiced Imperial Stout, Parsons North Brewing Company, Columbus, Ohio

Category 22: Fruit Beers
Gold: Cha-Cha-Cha… Cherry Bomb!, Four Paws Brewing, Columbia Station, Ohio
Silver: Blood Brothers, Hop Brothers Brewing Company, North Ridgeville, Ohio
Bronze: Nightfall, Traum Brewing, Upper Sandusky, Ohio

Category 23: Coffee Beer
Gold: Wired Euphoria, Third Eye Brewing Company, Cincinnati, Ohio
Silver: Good Morning 818, Southern Ohio Brewing, Beavercreek, Ohio
Bronze: The Daily Grind, Akronym Brewing, Akron, Ohio

Category 24: Historical Beer, Smoked Beer, Experimental Beer and Specialty Beverages
Gold: Rauchfräug Strong Märzen Lager, Hoppin’ Frog Brewery, Akron, Ohio
Silver: Lee Morgan, GlendAlehouse, Cincinnati, Ohio
Bronze: Hanayori Mo Bīru, Eighty-Three Brewery, Akron, Ohio

Category 25: Sour and Mixed Culture Beers
Gold: Barrel Aged Flemish Kriek, Parsons North Brewing Company, Columbus, Ohio
Silver: Eau Rouge, Noble Beast Brewing Co., Cleveland, Ohio
Bronze: Reverie, Edison Brewing Company, Gahanna, Ohio

Category 26: Cider
Gold: Kelly’s Dry, West End Ciderhouse, Athens, Ohio
Silver: Shell Jelly, Funky Turtle Brewing Co., Toledo, Ohio
Bronze: TinCap Pineapple, TinCap Hard Cider, Wilmington, Ohio

Category 27: Mead
Gold: MVWS, Four Fires Meadery, Maumee, Ohio
Silver: Booty Blue, Dutch Creek Winery, Athens, Ohio
Bronze: Stonefruit Slow Jams, Four Fires Meadery, Maumee, Ohio

About the Ohio Craft Brewers Association
The Ohio Craft Brewers Association (OCBA), founded in 2008 as a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit organization, was established to unify Ohio’s brewing community, market Ohio-manufactured craft beers throughout the state and beyond, and advocate for a strong, thriving beer industry.

Over the past 18 years, the OCBA has grown into the official unified voice for the state’s craft brewers, with a mission “to promote, preserve, diversify, and unify Ohio’s craft brewing industry.” The association represents hundreds of operating breweries, breweries-in-planning, allied trade partners, and enthusiast supporters through tiered memberships—including Brewery, Allied, and Enthusiast levels—that deliver marketing and promotional support, legislative advocacy, educational programming such as the annual Ohio Craft Brewers Conference, signature events like Ohio Pint Day, and a collaborative network that fosters industry growth and camaraderie. Today, OCBA member breweries and partners help drive Ohio’s dynamic craft beer scene, which boasts more than 440 licensed craft breweries (ranking 8th nationally) and contributes nearly $3 billion in total economic impact to the state.

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