Dow Scoggins

Go Illini! DESTIHL Brewery & ICON Collective Unleash ILL-IPA and Oskee Light for Fighting Illini Gamedays

August 21, 2024 by Dow Scoggins

CHAMPAIGN, IL – Illinois fans, get ready to cheer louder (and sip smarter)! ICON Collective has teamed up with DESTIHL Brewery—the award-winning, Illinois-alum-founded craft powerhouse based in Normal, IL—to launch two official Illini beers just in time for the 2024 football season opener against Eastern Illinois on August 29. Meet ILL-IPA, a bold, citrus-hopped India Pale Ale, and Oskee Light, a crisp, crushable premium light lager—both brewed to fuel game-day spirit and directly support Fighting Illini student-athletes through NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) funding.
Available first at Memorial Stadium for football and State Farm Center for basketball, these orange-and-blue brews will also hit select Champaign-Urbana bars, restaurants, and retailers in early September. Thanks to DESTIHL’s massive distribution network—covering Chicagoland, the entire state of Illinois, and nearly 40 states nationwide—Illini fans from coast to coast can raise a glass in support. Use the DESTIHL Beer Finder to track them down. A portion of every sale goes straight to ICON, powering NIL opportunities that help Illinois athletes compete at the highest level.

“This is NIL done right—fun, local, and fan-powered,” said ICON President & CEO Kathleen Knight. “DESTIHL’s Illinois roots and brewing excellence make them the perfect partner to bring Illini pride to every pint.”

“We’re thrilled to welcome DESTIHL as a Proud Partner of Illinois Athletics,” said Rob Louthain, GM of Fighting Illini Sports Properties. “Their quality, reach, and Illini passion mean fans everywhere can enjoy great beer while backing our student-athletes,” added Parish Mason, FISP Business Development Manager.

“Orange and blue isn’t just a color—it’s family,” said DESTIHL Founder & CEO Matt Potts, an Illinois grad alongside his wife and two kids. “We poured our craft and our hearts into ILL-IPA and Oskee Light. Now, let’s drink up, cheer loud, and send the Illini to victory!”

Want to go all in? Join ICON for Illini (individual memberships) or the ICON Business Coalition (corporate support) for exclusive perks and direct impact. Visit ICONforIllini.com or follow @ICONforIllini on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

For more information about Fighting Illini Athletics, please visit its website at www.fightingillini.com, and for more information about DESTIHL, please visit its website at www.DESTIHL.com.

National Aviation Day’s Craft Beer of the Day: Flyer Red Lager Brewed by Warped Wing Brewing in Dayton, Ohio

August 19, 2024 by Dow Scoggins

Warped Wing Flyer Red American Red Lager
Flyer Red is an American Red Lager crafted by Warped Wing Brewing Company, located in Dayton, Ohio. This beer, with an ABV of 4.5% and an IBU of 12, is a year-round offering available in draft, 6-pack 12 oz cans, and as part of Warped Wing’s Lager Party Pack. It celebrates Ohio’s rich aviation history, paying homage to pioneers like the Wright Brothers, Neil Armstrong, John Glenn, and the presence of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. The beer’s name and red, white, and blue can design reflect this patriotic theme, embodying the spirit of innovation and determination. Thus, the perfect beer for National Aviation Day!

Tasting Notes
Appearance: Pours a reddish-amber or golden-amber color with a light khaki or off-white head. The head may dissipate quickly, with minimal lacing and good carbonation. Some pours may appear yeast-hazed.
Aroma: Features a clean, slightly sweet profile with notes of toasted bread crust, caramelized malts, sweet yellow bread, and gentle floral or grassy hops. Some reviewers note a slight sour or metallic scent in certain batches.
Taste: Balanced and smooth, with a light to moderate malt character. Expect hints of toffee, bready sweetness, and a touch of caramel. A mild hop bitterness provides a dry finish, though some find the flavor understated or slightly metallic.
Mouthfeel: Light to medium-bodied, crisp, and highly drinkable, making it a “crushable” lager ideal for casual sipping.
Food Pairings: Complements shellfish, light seafood, sushi, grilled pork or chicken, Southeast Asian, Latin, Mexican, and spicy dishes. Its versatility suits not-too-heavy pasta dishes as well.

National Aviation Day
National Aviation Day, observed annually on August 19 in the United States, celebrates the pioneering spirit of aviation and its transformative impact on society. Established in 1939 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the date coincides with Orville Wright’s birthday, honoring the Wright brothers’ historic contributions to powered flight. The day recognizes the advancements in aviation technology, from the Wright Flyer’s first flight in 1903 to modern jets and spacecraft, highlighting how aviation has connected the world, revolutionized transportation, and expanded human exploration.

The significance of National Aviation Day extends beyond commemorating past achievements; it also inspires future innovation. Aviation has shaped global economies, enabling rapid travel and cargo transport, while military aviation has redefined defense strategies. Events on this day, such as airshows, museum exhibits, and educational programs, engage the public in celebrating pilots, engineers, and scientists who push the boundaries of what’s possible. It’s a moment to reflect on milestones like the moon landing and the rise of commercial aviation, which have made the world more accessible and interconnected.

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

August 18 is National Honey Bee Day : Celebrate with some Bee Line Honey Blonde Ale

August 18, 2024 by Dow Scoggins

This National Honey Bee Day (third Saturday in August), craft beer lovers and backyard gardeners alike are raising a glass to the hardest-working MVPs in the food chain: honey bees, the pollinators responsible for one out of every three bites we eat. Started in 2009 by a small group of passionate American beekeepers and officially recognized by the USDA, the day is all about celebrating bees, spreading real talk on colony collapse, and getting everyone from kids to brewers involved in saving them.

Fun (and slightly mind-blowing) fact: it takes roughly 2 million flower visits for a hive to make just one pound of honey. That means every pour of Track 7 Brewing’s fan-favorite Bee Line Honey Blonde Ale represents about 260 million tiny bee flights—talk about liquid gold earned the hard way!

“National Honey Bee Day brings together beekeepers, brewers, schools, and neighborhoods to turn awareness into real action,” say the folks at Pennsylvania Apiculture Inc., the nonprofit that’s steered the celebration since 2010. The best part? Anyone can join for free: plant native wildflowers, ditch the harsh pesticides, buy local honey (or a honey beer), or just share a bee-friendly post. Small moves, massive impact—one flower, one pint, one hive at a time. Save the bees, then toast them

National Honey Bee Day
National Honey Bee Day, celebrated every third Saturday in August, is the one day America collectively says “thank you” to the tiny superheroes that pollinate one-third of everything we eat and make every honey-infused craft beer possible. Started in 2009 by a handful of passionate U.S. beekeepers and officially recognized by the USDA, the day is all about raising awareness for honey bee conservation, supporting local beekeepers, and turning backyards into pollinator paradises. Fun fact that will blow your mind next time you sip a honey blonde ale: a single colony has to visit more than two million flowers to produce just one pound of honey! Whether you plant native wildflowers, skip the pesticides, buy raw local honey, or crack open a bee-friendly brew like Track 7 Bee Line, Five Threads Honey Kolsch, or Rogue Honey Kolsch, every little actions on National Honey Bee Day help keep hives healthy and our plates (and pints) full. Save the bees, then raise a glass to them, cheers!

Fun Beer Facts, Breweries and More: Click Here

The Beer Mile World Record: A Feat of Speed and Stomach

August 12, 2024 by Dow Scoggins

The beer mile, a quirky yet grueling event that combines running and drinking, has captured the attention of athletes and spectators alike. This unique race requires competitors to chug a 12-ounce beer (355 ml, minimum 5% ABV) before each of four 400-meter laps on a standard track, testing both athletic prowess and gastric fortitude. The current world records for the beer mile showcase extraordinary performances that push the boundaries of human capability in this unconventional sport.

Men’s World Record: Corey Bellemore’s Blazing 4:28.1
Canadian runner Corey Bellemore holds the men’s beer mile world record with an astonishing time of 4:28.1, set on October 23, 2021, at the Beer Mile World Classic in Leigh Sports Village near Manchester, UK. This performance shattered his own previous record of 4:33.6, set in 2017 at Kezar Stadium in San Francisco. Bellemore, a professional runner for Adidas with a 3:57 mile personal best, has dominated the beer mile scene since 2016, when he first broke the 4:40 barrier. His 2021 record-breaking run saw him average under 67 seconds per lap, including the time to down each beer, a feat that blends elite-level running with an iron stomach.

Bellemore’s journey to the record hasn’t been without hiccups. In 2018, he ran an even faster 4:24.4 at the Beer Mile World Classic in Vancouver, but was disqualified for leaving slightly too much foam in his bottles, exceeding the rule that unconsumed beer must total less than 4 ounces across all four containers. Despite setbacks like losing a shoe during the 2023 World Classic and still finishing in 4:30, Bellemore’s consistency and speed have cemented his status as the beer mile’s greatest.

Women’s World Record: Shelby Houlihan’s Historic 5:43
On the women’s side, American runner Shelby Houlihan holds the world record with a groundbreaking time of 5:43, set on July 1, 2023, at the Beer Mile World Classic in Chicago. This performance obliterated the previous record of 6:16, held by Allison Grace Morgan, by 33 seconds and marked the first time a woman broke the 6-minute barrier. Houlihan, a professional middle-distance runner with a 4:25 mile split during her beer mile, consumed her four beers in roughly 1:18, showcasing remarkable chugging efficiency. Her final 400 meters, run in 63 seconds with four beers in her stomach, stunned onlookers.

Houlihan’s record came with some controversy, as she was 2.5 years into a 4-year track and field suspension for a failed drug test at the time. However, the Beer Mile World Classic determined her time was eligible for the record, as official beer mile rules rely solely on video evidence to verify compliance, not requiring drug testing. Houlihan raced in a non-championship heat, with approval from competing athletes and governing bodies, ensuring her record stood.

The Beer Mile: Rules and Challenges
The beer mile follows strict rules to ensure fairness. Competitors must drink four 12-ounce beers, each at least 5% ABV, from untampered cans or bottles within a 9-meter transition zone before each lap. Vomiting, or a “reversal of fortune,” results in a penalty lap. The total unconsumed beer left in containers must be less than 4 ounces, verified by video or measurement. These rules, outlined by BeerMile.com, maintain the event’s integrity while adding to its difficulty.

The physical challenge is immense. Runners must balance sprinting at near-elite speeds with chugging carbonated beverages under time pressure, all while fighting the urge to regurgitate. Bellemore has noted the difficulty of chugging while out of breath, and Houlihan’s ability to run a 4:25 mile with a stomach full of beer highlights the extraordinary fitness required.

A Growing Phenomenon
The beer mile has evolved from an underground pastime to a mainstream spectacle, with world championships and media coverage on platforms like ESPN and The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Since James Nielsen broke the 5-minute barrier in 2014, the men’s record has dropped dramatically, and the women’s record has seen similar progress. The sport’s appeal lies in its blend of athleticism and camaraderie, drawing runners like Bellemore, who transitioned to triathlon in 2024, and Houlihan, who used the event to return to competition.

Looking Ahead
As the beer mile gains popularity, questions arise about how much faster times can get. Bellemore’s 4:28.1 is just 45 seconds slower than the men’s mile world record of 3:43.1, leaving little room for improvement unless chugging techniques or stomach capacities evolve. For women, Houlihan’s 5:43 is a significant leap, but the 5-minute barrier may be the next frontier. With events like the 2024 Beer Mile World Classic and the premiere of Beer Mile: The Film on YouTube, the sport continues to grow, promising more records and unforgettable moments.

For those inspired to try, heed Bellemore’s advice: learn to open your throat for chugging, stay fit, and follow the rules. But be warned—this is one race where speed and a strong stomach are equally vital.

Official Rules for the Beer Mile
The beer mile is pretty simple. Drink 4 beers and run 4 laps around the track in alternating fashion as quickly as you can. But just to be sure everyone is on the same playing field, here is the standard set of beer mile rules to follow.

Each competitor drinks four cans or bottles of beer and runs four laps around a standard running track (start with chugging a beer, then run a lap, then beer, then lap, then beer, then lap, then beer, then lap – finish).
Beer must be consumed before the lap begins within the transition area. The transition area is the 9 meter zone between the starting line for a mile race and the finish line of a 400m track.
The race begins with competitors lined up on the mile starting line, drinking the first beer in the transition zone described in the step above. This ensures competitors cover a complete mile. Competitors can walk/move in the transition area while drinking, but all beer must be consumed in the transition area before setting off to run a lap.
Women also drink four beers and run four laps (some past rule lists only required ladies to drink three beers).
Competitors must drink canned or bottled beer that is no less than 355mL (12 Oz) in volume, which is the standard can/bottle size in the USA and some other countries.
No specialized cans or bottles may be used that give an advantage by allowing the beer to pour at a faster rate (e.g. wide mouth bottles/cans).
Beer cans must not be tampered with in any manner. (e.g. no shotgunning, puncturing the can, squeezing the can, etc.). The same applies for bottles – no straws or other aids allowed that speed up the pouring process. The only action allowed is opening the can with the tab at the top or twisting off the bottle cap of a bottle.
Beer must be a minimum of 5% alcohol by volume. Hard ciders, hard sodas, and other alcoholic sugary drinks will not suffice. The beer must be a fermented alcoholic beverage brewed from malted cereal grains and flavored with hops.
Each beer can/bottle must not be opened until the competitor enters the transition zone on each lap.
Competitors who vomit before they finish the race must complete one penalty lap at the end of the race (immediately after the completion of their 4th lap). Vomiting more than once during the race still only requires one penalty lap at the end.
When attempting a performance for the official records, it is recommended to provide video evidence of the race and prove that all beer was sufficiently drank. This can be achieved by tipping the empty beer over your head after each chug to verify an empty vessel or by collecting the containers and pouring the contents into a measuring cup to prove there is less than 4oz of liquid/foam remaining total across all four beers. We recommend picking up a pack of disposable measuring cups for your next beer mile event. funds for police brutality reform and legal

Beermile.com – The official racing resource. Hosts a database of thousands of race results and official rules.

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Women In Beer – The Portland Edition

July 19, 2024 by Dow Scoggins

Growing up a Portland native I have always known I wanted to be in the craft brewing industry. As a woman I dream about a day where the craft brewing industry sees as many female brewery owners as males. My long-term vision is to start a brewery of my own with a female brew master. With this on my mind, I was feeling inspired lately by the hard working women I am around and decided to pick their brains. I was lucky enough to conduct some interviews with some powerful women involved and leading the way in the craft brewing industry.

The most challenging part of being a woman in beer is the “boys club” mentality that we face everyday. “You kind of have to prove yourself,” as Molly Tyler, former Administrative Assistant at Base Camp Brewing Co. puts it. Like most admins, Molly was the glue of Base Camp and did all the grunt work to keep the company going. Not only is it a boy’s club in the brewing industry, but also, female brewers are combatted everyday with struggles of how they function in a brewery. Being a brewer is a very manual job and can be even harder for women.

The industry has seen a shift in the last five years. What used to be a male dominated industry has transitioned and now women fill about fifty percent of positions. Karolyn Simon, Associate Brand Manager for Kona Brewing Company, has been in the industry for 7 years. She has felt the movement. “I don’t think the industry is dominated by males as much anymore… maybe on the brewing and packaging side, but definitely not in the other parts of the business. I have met so many female brewery reps, marketing pros, QA techs, and beyond lately! That shows where we’re going. When society changes I think the industry changes too.”

Karmen Olson, Director of Innovation at Craft Brew Alliance, sums it up very well. “In the last five years there has been a lot of progress. In five years from now, I see the movement continuing. In ten years from now we should expect gender equality. That can’t happen without the influence of men in the industry as well.” We have seen this shift and now it’s time to continue on that momentum and make sure that gender equality seeps into every aspect and role of the craft brewing industry. Whether you’re rinsing kegs, or designing packaging, the main focus is that we all are doing what we love in a community that we love.

For more information on how to get involved in the craft brewing community for women in your city check out the Pink Boots Society.

Story by Austin Foster – BeerInfo’s Portland Craft Beer Writer

2019 Indiana Brewers’ Cup Celebrates 21 Years of Brewing Excellence

July 17, 2024 by Dow Scoggins

The 2019 Indiana Brewers’ Cup marked the 21st edition of the Hoosier State’s premier craft beer showdown, held in July at the Indiana State Fairgrounds’ Farmer’s Coliseum in Indianapolis and drawing a massive lineup of over 1,000 entries from pro and homebrewers across 33 categories like crisp Czech Pilsners, juicy American IPAs, roasty porters, and experimental sours—all blind-judged by BJCP pros for that unbiased hoppy justice. Standouts that year included Sun King Brewery’s Sunlight Cream Ale snagging Best of Show Gold in the Light Lager division, with Guggman Haus Brewing’s Winner’s Milk Jug Milk Stout taking top honors in the Stout category and Daredevil Brewing’s Beautiful Dreams claiming gold in English Brown Ale—medals that sent these Indiana gems flying off taps and into Untappd wishlists. It all wrapped with the electric Indiana Microbrewers Festival at Military Park, where unlimited pours from 100+ breweries, live tunes, and food trucks turned downtown Indy into a beer lover’s utopia for thousands of thirsty fans. If you’re plotting a Midwest beer road trip, dig into 2019’s winners for timeless Hoosier pours like those creamy stouts and balanced ales—cheers to a vintage year that proved Indiana brews punch way above their weight!

After a weekend full of tasting and judging, in the professional division, Flix Brewhouse in Carmel, Indiana was named both Grand Champion Brewery and Indiana Brewery of the year. Earlier in the week, Flix Brewhouse won a Gold and two Bronze Medals at the 2019 U.S. Open Beer Championship.

Best of Show
Gold – Czech 2 – Gravely Brewing – Kentucky
Silver – Sunlight Cream Ale – Sun King Brewery – Indiana
Bronze – Corporate Cake – Third Rock Bottom Brewery – Indianapolis – Indiana

2019 Medal Winners
Light Lager
Gold – Law Grrr – Rock Bottom Brewery – Warrenville – Illinois
Silver – Butcher Holler – Gravely Brewing – Kentucky
Bronze – Itza – Centerpoint Brewing – Indiana

Pilsner
Gold – Czech 2 – Gravely Brewing – Kentucky
Silver – Square One – Off Square Brewing – Indiana
Bronze – Bohemian Pilsner – Henderson Brewing – Kentucky

European Amber Lager
Gold – Das Umlaut – Flix Brewhouse – Indiana
Silver – Auburn Lager – Mad Anthony Brewing – Indiana
Bronze – Back Roads Amber – Field Brewing – Indiana

Dark Lager
Gold – Witz – Backstep Brewing – Indiana
Silver – Schwarzer Elefant – Thieme & Wagner Brewing – Indiana
Bronze – Dark Angel Black Lager – St. Joseph Brewery – Indiana

Bock
Gold – Marvelous Maibock – Brokerage Brewing – Indiana
Silver – Marvelous Maibock – Flix Brewhouse – Carmel – Indiana
Bronze – Daredevil Bock – Daredevil Brewing – Indiana

Light Hybrid Beer
Gold – Daredevil Vacation – Daredevil Brewing – Indiana
Silver – Beer A Whole New Wheat – Flix Brewhouse – Albuquerque – New Mexico
Bronze – Maize Runner – Wooden Bear Brewing – Indiana

Amber Hybrid Beer
Gold – Alt – Hop River Brewing Company – Indiana
Silver – By Necessity – Backstep Brewing – Indiana
Bronze – Jack of Hearts – Big Lug Brewing – Indiana

English Pale Ale
Gold – Grand Junction Brewing Company – Indiana
Silver – Junk Ditch Brewing Company – Indiana
Bronze – 5 Speed – Auburn Brewing – Indiana

Scottish and Irish Ale
Gold Flix – Skrull Crusher – Brewhouse – Carmel – Indiana
Silver – Irish Red – Cedar Creek Brewing – Indiana
Bronze – Wee So Heavy – Summit City Brewerks – Indiana

American Ale
Gold – Six 2 Midnight – Mad Anthony Brewing – Indiana
Silver – Diamond Daisy – Mind Over Mash Brewing – Indiana
Bronze – Space Station Middle Finger – 3 Floyds Brewing – Indiana

Other American Ale
Gold – Sunlight Cream Ale – Sun King Brewery – Indiana
Silver – Luscious – Teays River Brewing – Indiana
Bronze – Old Crown Ale – Summit City Brewerks – Indiana

English Brown Ale
Gold – Beautiful Dreams – Daredevil Brewing – Indiana
Silver – Warring Factions – Four Day Ray Brewing – Indiana
Bronze – Properly – Rock Bottom Brewery – Warrenville – Illinois

Porter
Gold – Centerpoint Black – Centerpoint Brewing – Indiana
Silver – Busted Knuckle – Quaff On Brewing – Indiana
Bronze – Fat Bob’s Porter – Hop River Brewing – Indiana

Stout
Gold – Winner’s Milk Jug Milk Stout – Guggman Haus Brewing Company – Indiana
Silver – Quinn – Backstep Brewing Company – Indiana
Bronze – Summit City Brewerks – Indiana

Strong Stout
Gold – Charlie – Brokerage Brewing Company – Indiana
Silver – Tsar Bomba – Junk Ditch Brewing Company – Indiana
Bronze – Curse of Malthaven – Brokerage Brewing Company – Indiana

American IPA
Gold – Confessional IPA – St. Joseph Brewery – Indiana
Silver – Lupulus – Flix Brewhouse – Carmel – Indiana
Bronze – Hazy Is Lazy – Haymarket Brewing – Michigan

India Pale Ale (IPA)
Gold – The Riverside – Guggman Haus Brewing – Indiana
Silver – Backcountry Session IPA – Bloomington Brewing – Indiana
Bronze – Hazy Hopsicle – Urban Vines Winery and Brewery – Indiana

German Wheat and Rye Beer
Gold – Guggenweizen – Guggman Haus Brewing – Indiana
Silver – El Hefe – Rock Bottom Brewery – Orland Park – Illinois
Bronze – Harrison Street Wheat – Hop River Brewing – Indiana

Belgian and French Ale
Gold – Lost Season – Backstep Brewing – Indiana
Silver – Super Power Potion – Flix Brewhouse – Carmel – Indiana
Bronze – Luna Rosa – Flix Brewhouse – Carmel – Indiana

Sour Ale
Gold – Lambic Raspberry – Upland Brewing – Indiana
Silver – Red Legacy – Wolf’s Ridge Brewing – Ohio
Bronze – Phantom Gose – Triton Brewing – Indiana

Belgian Strong Ale
Gold – Nefarious Nectar – The Tap Brewery – Indiana
Silver – Touched by an Angel – Sun King Brewery – Indiana
Bronze – Delta Quadrant – The Tap Brewery – Indiana

Strong Ale
Gold – The Strong Ale – Cedar Creek Brewing Company – Indiana
Silver – Imperial Wheat – Crown Brewing – Indiana 2
Bronze – Grampa Z’big A$$ – Evil Horse Brewing – Illinois

Fruit Beer
Gold – Popping My Collar – Rock Bottom Brewery – Indianapolis – Indiana
Silver – Prickly Pear Gose – Backstep Brewing – Indiana
Bronze – Grandma’s Strawberry Pie – Fortlandia Brewing – Indiana

Spice/Herb/Vegetable Beer
Gold – Corporate Cake – Rock Bottom Brewery – Indianapolis – Indiana
Silver – Herald Jr. – Tin Man Brewing – Indiana
Bronze – Breakfast Stout – Cedar Creek Brewing – Indiana

Smoke-Flavored
Gold – Buchenrauch – Wolf’s Ridge Brewing – Ohio
Silver – Litany Against Fear – Wolf’s Ridge Brewing – Ohio
Bronze – Stormcrow – MashCraft Brewing – Fishers – Indiana

Wood-Aged Beer
Gold – Mezcal Exemption – Taxman Brewing – Indiana
Silver – Type Set – 18th Street Brewery – Indiana
Bronze – Deduction – Taxman Brewing Company – Indiana

American Wild Ale
Gold – Small batch Mr. J – Sun King Fishers Tap Room & Small Batch Brewery – Indiana
Silver – Oak & White – Upland Brewing – Indiana
Bronze – Cache Flow: Apricot – Taxman Brewing – Indiana

Specialty Beer
Gold – Tiki Tango Kombucha Shandy – Centerpoint Brewing – Indiana
Silver – Colonial Ale – Rock Bottom Brewery – Orland Park – Illinois
Bronze – Imperial Amish Krack – HopLore Brewing – Indiana

Traditional Mead
Gold – lil buzz – McClure’s Orchard/Winer – Indiana
Silver – Oaked Wildflower Cuvee – Hive and Barrel Meadery – Kentucky
Bronze – OB Traditional – Hive and Barrel Meadery – Kentucky

Fruit Mead
Gold – Adult Apple Juice – Hive and Barrel Meadery – Kentucky
Silver – Pyment birdeye – McClure’s Orchard/Winery – Indiana

Spice & Specialty Mead
Gold- OBB, Yeah You Know Me! (Old Bourbon Barrel) – Hive and Barrel – Kentucky
Silver – Mango Chipotle – Hive and Barrel Meadery – Kentucky
Bronze – Hibiscus – Hive and Barrel Meadery – Kentucky

Standard Cider and Perry
Gold – Spy Candy – McClure’s Orchard/Winery – Indiana
Silver – Farmhouse – McClure’s Orchard/Winery – Indiana
Bronze – Bon-Bon – McClure’s Orchard/Winery – Indiana

Specialty Cider and Perry
Gold – Cherry Monster – Urban Vines Winery and Brewery – Indiana
Silver – La Glace – Ash & Elm Cider Co. – Indiana
Bronze – Paige’s Peach McClure’s Orchard/Winery – Indiana

Fun Beer Facts, Breweries and More: Click Here

Third Eye Brewing Named Best Brewery at the U.S. Open Beer Championship

July 15, 2024 by Dow Scoggins

Oxford, Ohio(2024) – Breweries from the coast of Kona, Hawaii to the rocky coast of Portland, Maine sent more than 9,000 beers representing over 170 different styles to the 2024 U.S. Open Beer Championship. Today, the U.S. Open Beer Championship announces the medal winners and Grand National Champion.

Third Eye Brewing of Hamilton, Ohio was awarded the 2024 Grand National Champion by winning 4 gold medals, 2 silver medals, and 2 bronze medals. Their gold medal winners included Higher Consciousness, Double Astral, Dark Aura, and Inner Sight. Third Eye Brewing is known for brewing some style-defining beers that are consistent winners throughout many competitions. Most notably, Third Eye won the Brewery of the Year at the 2023 Great American Beer Festival.

Monday Night Brewing, from Atlanta, Georgia placed second overall by winning 4 gold and 4 bronze medals. Gold medals included Spoken Wisdom, Tears of Our Enemies, Madrigal, and Simple Illusion. Monday Night Brewing not only makes great beers, this Georgia brewery has finished in the U.S. Open’s Top Ten Breweries several times.

Sun King Brewery out of Indianapolis, Indiana placed Third by winning 3 golds for their Barrel Aged Scout Badge, Banana Daquiri, and their Collaboration Beer, Up For Anything, brewed with 18th Street Brewery. They also took home a silver and 2 bronze medals. Sun King Brewery has been crowned Grand National Champion in the 2019 and 2022 U.S. Open Beer Championship.

The U.S. Open Beer Championship judges more beer styles than any other competition in the world. The U.S. Open is also the only major beer competition to allow the gold medal winners of the AHA’s National Homebrew Competition to participate. This year, 3 homebrewers won medals which ties the U.S. Open record. Big congratulations go to Christopher Burgess from Castle Rock, CO for winning a gold medal for his Like Falling Off A Bike, Brutt IPA, to Lucas Orr from San Diego, CA for winning a gold medal for his Kilt Dropper, Strong Scottish Ale, and to Mark Kunzelmann from St Louis, MO for winning bronze for his Belgian Pale Ale.

The U.S. Open judging was held at the U.S. Open Event Center in Oxford, Ohio. The U.S. Open became the first beer competition to be held in its own venue which is a 6,000 square-foot Amish pole barn located on a small farm. The barn consists of a judging area, a serving area, two 450-square-foot coolers, an office, and a nano brewery. To see “The Barn”, Click here to see a YouTube video of the 15th Anniversary of the U.S. Open Beer Championship.

Most importantly, we would like thank all the volunteers and judges. The majority of our volunteer staff were from 6 different countries and 11 different states.

Top 10 Breweries in 2024’s U.S. Open Beer Championships
1. Third Eye Brewing — Ohio
2. Monday Night Brewing – Georgia
3. Sun King Brewery – Indiana
4. O.H.S.O. Brewery Gilbert – Arizona
5. Cherry Street Brewpub at Halcyon – Georgia
6. Urban Artifact – Ohio
7. Boulevard Brewing Co. – Missouri
8. Feather Falls Brewing Co. – California
8. Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. – Iowa
9. Sonder Brewing – Ohio
10. Burgeon Beer Co. – California

2024 U.S. Open Beer Championship Medal Winners – Click Here

Pink Boots Category: Toms River Brewing takes home the Gold
The U.S. Open Beer Championship partnered with the Pink Boots Society, an organization that assists, inspires, and encourages women and non-binary individuals in the fermented/alcoholic beverage profession through education, to create the Pink Boots Blend Category. The organization has partnered with Yakima Chief Hops for several years to sell a special hops blend to benefit the Pink Boots scholarship fund, and all beers developed using this hop blend were eligible to enter the category. Hear Us Roar, brewed by Toms River Brewing in Toms River, NJ, brought home the gold medal. All entry fees for the category will be matched by the U.S. Open Beer Championship and donated back to the Pink Boots Society Scholarship Fund.

What’s in a Name?
U.S. Open beer judges always enjoy the creativity behind the names that breweries choose for their products, and judge winners subjectively (based on laughter volume) at the competition’s conclusion. This year’s Top 10 on the laughs meter included:

Top 10 Beer Names at the U.S. Open Beer Championship
1. Barrel-Aged Macadizzamia Nizzut – Unrefined Brewing – Florida
2. All Cap’n, No Crunch – Tarnished Hallow Brewing Co. – Indiana
3. Just Give Me ALL The Bacon – Akademia Brewing – Georgia
4. Fat Kids Birthday Party -Cherry Street Brewing at Vickery Village – Georgia
5. Not My Gumdrop Buttons – Model A Brewing Company – South Carolina
6. Hot Sauce Committee – Good Line Beer Co. – Texas
7. The Elves Have Gone Too Far – Bickersons Brewhouse – Washington
8. Bones Are Their Money – Site-1 Brewing Co. – Nebraska
9. Spaghetti Policy – South O Brewing – California
10. Hopswitch Engage – Afterglow Brewing – Virginia

More about Third Eye Brewing
Third Eye Brewing Company, an award-winning craft brewery based in the Greater Cincinnati area, is dedicated to opening minds and palates through innovative and experimental brewing. With locations in Sharonville and Hamilton, Ohio, Third Eye Brewing offers a diverse lineup of handcrafted beers, ranging from year-round favorites and seasonal releases to bold specialty collaborations. Known for pushing boundaries with unique flavors and high-quality ingredients, the brewery has earned widespread acclaim, including Brewery of the Year honors at the prestigious Great American Beer Festival in both 2023 and 2025, as well as top recognition at the U.S. Open Beer Championship.

Visitors to Third Eye Brewing’s welcoming taprooms enjoy not only exceptional beers but also a full kitchen serving fresh, made-from-scratch meals, spacious indoor and outdoor seating, and a vibrant community atmosphere perfect for gatherings. Committed to creativity and excellence, Third Eye Brewing continues to inspire beer enthusiasts by blending tradition with experimentation, inviting everyone to explore new possibilities one pint at a time. For more information, visit thirdeyebrewingco.com.

More about the U.S. Open Beer Championship
The U.S. Open Beer Championship stands as one of the premier competitions in the craft beer industry, evaluating over 8,000 entries from breweries across the United States and beyond in more than 170 diverse beer styles and subcategories. Held annually in Oxford, Ohio, this blind-judged event highlights excellence in brewing, from classic styles like pale ales and stouts to innovative categories such as coffee beers, rice lagers, and specialty collaborations. What sets the U.S. Open apart is its inclusivity, welcoming professional breweries alongside gold medal-winning homebrewers from the American Homebrewers Association, while judges from around the world ensure impartial and expert evaluations.

Each year, winners receive iconic beer stein-shaped medals for gold, silver, and bronze placements, with top-performing breweries honored as Breweries of the Year in production categories and the overall Grand National Champion crowned based on a points system. The competition not only celebrates brewing craftsmanship and creativity but also supports initiatives like partnerships with the Pink Boots Society to promote women and non-binary professionals in the industry. For complete results and more details, visit usopenbeer.com.

Top 10 Beer Festivals in America plus a few more: Click Here!

Andy’s Frozen Custard and Lakewood Brewing Co. Build the World’s Largest Beer Float

July 15, 2024 by Dow Scoggins

DALLAS— Andy’s Frozen Custard® and Lakewood Brewing Co. will build the world’s largest beer float at Lakewood on Saturday, June 29 at 1 p.m. using 50 scoops of Andy’s World Famous Frozen Custard, the best-frozen treat in the entire world, and 50 pints – a full keg – of Lakewood’s Temptress, the number one selling craft milk stout in Texas. The previous record was set in February in Ohio using about 20 pints (9 liters) of Third Eye Brewing’s Higher Purpose Milk Stout and 36 Graeters Vanilla Ice Cream scoops.

Andy’s will be on-site at Lakewood with its treat truck from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. with a fresh full menu of rich, thick and decadent treats, featuring smooth and creamy vanilla and chocolate frozen custard, transformed into luscious Concretes, Jackhammers™, shakes, and sundaes. Undecided treat seekers can get creative and customize their own treats with vanilla frozen custard and topping favorites like fresh fruit, hot fudge, and Andy’s famous roasted pecans.

Those in attendance can also register to win Andy’s for a year, as well as a Lakewood Brewing Lion’s Den Annual Membership, which offers one complimentary beer per visit with no annual limit. Both Andy’s and Lakewood merch will be available to commemorate the occasion, including a free Andy’s and Lakewood glass for the first 100 guests.

“Andy’s and Lakewood are brands known for a superlative focus on product quality, using only the finest ingredients and selling what we have carefully made in-house,” added Wim Bens, founder and president of Lakewood Brewing. “Marrying the two to create one of the most iconic symbols of summer will be one for the record books.”

Whether it’s a midday outing with the kids or a much-needed mid-day office break, Andy’s offers a sweet treat anytime and for everyone, offering frozen custard that is always Made Fresh Hourly™. In addition to locations in Carrollton, Frisco, Lake Highlands, The Colony, Hillcrest Village, and Prosper, Ranchers Frozen Custard operates the Andy’s Treat Truck in Klyde Warren Park and will be opening a new location in Allen this summer.

Lakewood is most notably known for its Temptress Imperial Milk Stout and offers a portfolio that also includes Stub’s – Texas Pils, year-round IPA’s, lagers, stouts, and popular seasonal offerings like Sunburst Wheat, all of which draw beer lovers to the Brewery and Taproom at 2302 Executive Drive in Garland. Lakewood beers are available on shelves Texas-wide and can be found using Lakewood’s online Beer Finder.

About Lakewood Brewing Company
Lakewood Brewing Company is a family-owned, independent craft brewery making Seriously Fun Beer. Lakewood exploded onto the DFW brewing scene in 2012 and became famous for its Temptress Imperial Milk Stout, now the best-selling craft stout in Texas. Its diverse beer portfolio includes IPA’s, Lagers, seasonal, and limited release beers. For more information, visit Lakewood Brewing’s official website.

About Andy’s Frozen Custard
Founded in 1986 in Osage Beach, Missouri by Andy’s parents John and Carol Kuntz, Andy’s Frozen Custard has been providing the freshest frozen custard in the business for 37 years, giving ice cream the “cold shoulder” by scooping, mixing and presenting handcrafted frozen custard treats with speed and a smile. Since the beginning, the family has had one dream: to share what makes them happiest with everyone else, and to warm hearts, one scoop of frozen custard at a time. With a focus on product quality, customer service and community involvement, Andy’s has grown into the nation’s largest frozen custard-only business, with more than 2,000 employees and 136 company-owned and franchised stores across 15 states proudly serving the World’s Finest Frozen Custard. Andy’s also offers the ‘Yum Squad Loyalty Club,’ designed to say “thank you” to loyal customers by earning points to redeem towards a free treat for every dollar spent. For more information or for details about franchising opportunities, check on Andy’s Frozen Custard online.

Top 10 Beer Festivals in America plus a few more: Click Here!

Most Haunted Breweries in America

April 22, 2024 by Dow Scoggins

Craft beer and ghostly tales make a chilling combination, especially in historic breweries where the past lingers alongside the pints. Across the United States, several breweries housed in centuries-old buildings are renowned not only for their brews but also for their paranormal activity. From shadowy figures to unexplained noises, these haunted hotspots draw beer enthusiasts and ghost hunters alike. Below, we explore eight of the most haunted breweries in the USA and the eerie stories that make them unforgettable.

1. Bube’s Brewery – Mount Joy, Pennsylvania
Bube’s Brewery, a 19th-century gem listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is the last intact brewery from that era in the United States. Its catacombs, used for aging beer, and the original bottling room add to its historic charm—and its ghostly allure. The brewery has embraced its haunted reputation, offering regular ghost tours and paranormal investigations.

Haunted Happenings: The catacombs are said to be haunted by the apparition of a young woman, believed to be the granddaughter of a former owner who went insane in the 1920s. Visitors report hearing disembodied voices, feeling cold spots, and witnessing objects moving inexplicably. The SyFy show Ghost Hunters investigated Bube’s and confirmed paranormal activity, lending credibility to the claims. The brewery’s resident paranormal team guides guests through investigations, sharing chilling evidence of the spirits that linger.

Why Visit: Bube’s combines microbrewed beers with a unique dining experience in its historic venues. The ghost tours are a must for those curious about the brewery’s spectral residents.

2. Church Brew Works – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Housed in a deconsecrated Catholic church, Church Brew Works blends sacred architecture with craft brewing. The former St. John the Baptist Church, closed in 1993, was transformed into a brewery in 1996, but its spiritual past seems to persist. Its appearance on Ghost Hunters in the early 2020s spotlighted its paranormal activity.

Haunted Happenings: The brewery is known for sightings of a “Lady in White,” a ghostly figure gliding through the sanctuary. Workers report being followed by unseen forces in the kitchen, hearing disembodied voices, and encountering unexplained knocks and taps. Some claim to hear faint organ music echoing through the building, despite no organ being present. The Ghost Hunters team recorded a potential EVP (electronic voice phenomenon) of a voice saying “Jesus,” adding to the eerie lore. Small items, like utensils, often go missing or move when no one is around, puzzling staff.

Why Visit: Enjoy a pint under the soaring ceilings of a former church, where the atmosphere is as captivating as the beer. While ghost hunts aren’t regularly offered, a visit might still yield a paranormal encounter.

3. Wolfden Brewing Company – Bloomingdale, Illinois
Built in 1851 as a Civil War-era farmhouse, Wolfden Brewing Company carries a dark history of death and tragedy. The property’s age and past make it a hotbed for paranormal activity, with strange occurrences reported weekly.

Haunted Happenings: Staff and patrons describe batteries draining unusually fast, beer ingredients falling off shelves, and shadowy figures moving through the brewery. Footsteps and coughing sounds echo in empty rooms. A notable incident occurred during construction when co-owner Katie found a soldier’s marble on the property. After removing it, she experienced frightening events, including paint cans falling from 25 feet above her at a store. The brewery’s ghosts are considered harmless but active, creating an unsettling atmosphere.

Why Visit: Wolfden’s craft beers and cozy vibe make it a great stop, especially for those intrigued by its Civil War-era hauntings. Keep an eye out for those shadowy figures while sipping your brew.

4. Wynkoop Brewing Company – Denver, Colorado
Located in a 125-year-old brick warehouse, Wynkoop Brewing Company is Denver’s first craft brewery, known for its historic charm and spectral residents. The building’s hidden tunnels and turn-of-the-century architecture add to its ghostly appeal.

Haunted Happenings: The basement is the epicenter of paranormal activity, with harmless but mischievous ghosts frequenting the restrooms. Male patrons report feeling a brush behind their legs at the urinals, while others hear strange noises or see fleeting shadows. The brewery has welcomed paranormal investigators, and public tours highlight the eerie occurrences. A lady in red is said to haunt the main floor, and some report feeling her presence in the restrooms. These spirits are described as “annoying but harmless,” adding a playful spookiness to the experience.

Why Visit: Wynkoop’s pioneering craft beers and rich history make it a must-visit. The brewery’s paranormal tours offer a chance to explore its haunted basement while enjoying a cold one.

5. The Phoenix Brewing Company – Mansfield, Ohio
Housed in a former mortuary built in 1914, The Phoenix Brewing Company in Mansfield, Ohio, is steeped in eerie history. The Charles Schroer Mortuary, vacant for 70 years before the brewery opened in 2014, was once an embalming and funeral parlor. Its grim past, coupled with discoveries during renovations, has made it a magnet for paranormal activity, drawing visitors from nearby haunted sites like the Ohio State Reformatory.

Haunted Happenings: During construction, workers found human bones beneath the concrete floor in what was once the embalming room, now the brewery’s five-barrel brewing system. These remains inspired a series of wheat beers named John Doe, Jane Doe, Barb Doe, and Juan Doe. Patrons and staff report unexplained footsteps, cold spots, and shadowy figures in the taproom. Some claim to hear whispers or feel a presence watching them, especially near the former preparation room. The brewery offers ghost hunts by appointment, and its haunted reputation attracts thrill-seekers, especially around Halloween. Carmone Macfarlane, head of creative and marketing, notes that the brewery’s spooky allure brings in curious customers eager to share their own ghostly encounters.

Why Visit: Sip a themed beer like Jane Doe (raspberry-infused wheat) in a setting that blends craft brewing with macabre history. Book a ghost hunt for a chance to explore the brewery’s spectral side.

6. Taylor House Brewing Company – Catasauqua, Pennsylvania
Located in a building from the former Milson’s Coal Yard, dating back to 1897, Taylor House Brewing Company sits across from the historic George Taylor House, home of a Declaration of Independence signer. Catasauqua’s role as a birthplace of America’s Industrial Revolution adds layers of history—and ghost stories—to this microbrewery. The brewery embraces its haunted legacy with a beer named Madame Fantome, a Belgian witbier inspired by its resident spirit.

Haunted Happenings: The brewery is said to be haunted by a female spirit nicknamed “Madame Fantome,” believed to be tied to the property’s industrial past. Staff report hearing unexplained footsteps and seeing shadowy figures in the taproom, particularly after hours. Nearby, the George Taylor House hosts regular paranormal investigations, and some believe the spirits from that historic site wander to the brewery. Visitors have reported feeling cold spots and sensing a presence while sipping their beers. The brewery’s historical setting, along the Lehigh Valley canal system, fuels tales of restless spirits from the area’s industrial era.

Why Visit: Enjoy handcrafted beers in small batches, like Madame Fantome, while soaking in the brewery’s historic and haunted ambiance. Its community-focused vibe makes it a perfect stop for ghost story enthusiasts.

7. Saranac Brewery – Utica, New York
Founded in 1888 by Francis Xavier Matt as the West End Brewing Company, Saranac Brewery is steeped in history, from its speakeasy days during Prohibition to serving the first legal beer after its repeal. Housed in a historic building in Utica, the brewery’s long past includes tales of ghostly happenings, especially in its former speakeasy and portrait gallery, which visitors can explore on tours.

Haunted Happenings: The former speakeasy, tucked away in the brewery’s lower levels, is said to be haunted by spirits from its Prohibition-era past. Visitors report hearing disembodied voices and footsteps in the speakeasy, with some claiming to see shadowy figures darting through the dimly lit space. In the portrait gallery, which displays images of the Matt family across generations, staff have noted strange occurrences, such as pictures tilting on their own or faint whispers echoing nearby. Some believe the spirits of past brewery workers or speakeasy patrons linger, drawn to the site’s vibrant history. The brewery’s tours highlight these spooky tales, adding a chilling twist to the experience.

Why Visit: Sample classic beers like Utica Club or experimental brews while touring the historic brewery. The speakeasy and portrait gallery offer a glimpse into Saranac’s haunted past, perfect for history and ghost enthusiasts alike.

8. Lemp Brewery – St. Louis, Missouri
Established in 1840 by Johann “Adam” Lemp, Lemp Brewery in St. Louis, Missouri, was once the largest brewery in the city, famed for its Falstaff beer and innovative refrigeration techniques. The brewery, built over a natural cave system used for lagering, was connected to the Lemp Mansion by underground tunnels, known as the Caves of St. Louis. The Lemp family’s tragic history—marked by multiple suicides and financial ruin—has cemented the brewery’s reputation as one of America’s most haunted sites, now home to a seasonal haunted house operated by Halloween Productions Inc.

Haunted Happenings: The brewery’s caves and tunnels are the epicenter of paranormal activity, with reports of disembodied voices, footsteps, and shadowy figures lurking in the darkness. Visitors to the haunted house attraction describe an oppressive atmosphere, with some claiming to feel unseen hands or hear whispers in the pitch-black caverns. The brewery’s tragic past, including the suicides of William J. Lemp Sr. (1904), William J. Lemp Jr. (1922), and Charles Lemp (1949), is believed to have left a spectral imprint. Paranormal investigators, including the Ghost Adventures team, have documented eerie EVPs and unexplained movements in the brewery, particularly in areas once used for beer storage. Some believe the spirits of Lemp family members or workers haunt the caves, unable to move on from the dynasty’s downfall. The brewery’s reputation as a paranormal hotspot is amplified by its appearances on shows like Ghost Adventures and its status as one of the top 10 most haunted locations in the U.S.

Why Visit: While the brewery no longer produces beer, its haunted house offers a terrifying experience in the historic caves, perfect for thrill-seekers. Combine a visit with a tour of the nearby Lemp Mansion for a full dive into the family’s haunted legacy.

Why These Breweries Embrace the Spooky
Many of these breweries lean into their haunted reputations, offering ghost tours, paranormal investigations, or themed beers like Taylor House Brewing’s Madame Fantome, a Belgian witbier named after its resident spirit. The allure of dark tourism spikes around Halloween, drawing visitors eager for a brush with the supernatural. Older buildings, especially on the East Coast, are steeped in history—Civil War hospitals, speakeasies, or churches—making them ripe for ghost stories.

A Toast to the Ghosts
Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, these haunted breweries offer a unique blend of craft beer and chilling tales. The spectral Lady in White at Church Brew Works to the touchy-feely spirits at each location, provides a spine-tingling backdrop to your pint. If you’re brave enough, plan a visit to one of these eerie establishments, where you might just raise a glass with a ghost. Just don’t be surprised if your beer disappears before you finish it—Mickey at the Ear Inn is known for that trick.

Note: Always check with the brewery for ghost tour availability, as some events are seasonal or by appointment only. Happy haunting and cheers!

The Moon River Brewing Company was once one of the most haunted breweries in America. Unfortunately, they closed in 2024.

World’s Largest Beer Float – New World Record at Third Eye Brewing in Hamilton, Ohio

March 4, 2024 by Dow Scoggins

Third Eye Brewing and the U.S. Open Beer Championship partnered to set a world record for the largest beer float.

To celebrate National Stout Month, which is February, Kelly Montgomery from Third Eye Brewing and Dow Scoggins from the U.S. Open Beer Championship created the World’s Largest Beer Float using 9 liters(27 12oz cans) of Higher Purpose Milk Stout and 36 scoops of Graeter’s Vanilla Ice Cream. Kelly, a co-owner of Third Eye and the brewery’s head brewer, and Dow Scoggins, founder of the U.S. Open Beer Championships, which is based in Oxford, both always wanted to hold a world record. So, they both got to check off “Hold a world record” from their bucket list.

About the Third Eye Brewing
Third Eye Brewing is an award-winning brewery that believes in lots of experimentation and trying new things to help open your Third Eye! In 2023, the brewery won 2 gold medals and two silver medals at the Great American Beer Festival and was named Brewery of the Year 1,001-2,000 Barrels.

The brewery prides itself on always keeping its beer menu fresh with new rotating styles and their goal is to make sure everyone can always find a few favorites on tap, even those who claim
to be non-beer drinkers!

Also, in 2023, Third Eye Brewing opened its new production brewery in Hamilton, Ohio while their original brewery thrives in Sharonsville, Ohio. Both breweries are located near the Cincinnati Metro Area.

About the U.S. Open Beer Championship
The U.S. Open Beer Championship was founded in 2009 and judges more beer styles than any other competition in the world. The U.S. Open is also the only major beer competition to allow the gold medal winners of the AHA’s National Homebrew Competition to participate. The U.S. Open judging is held at the U.S. Open Event Center in Oxford, Ohio. The U.S. Open became the first beer competition to be held in its venue, a 6,000-square-foot Amish pole barn on a small farm. The barn consists of a judging area, a serving area, two 450-square-foot coolers, an office, and a nano brewery. To see “The Barn”, Click here to see a YouTube video of the 15th Anniversary of the U.S. Open Beer Championship.

About National Stout Month
National Stout Month, celebrated every February, is a tribute to one of craft beer’s most beloved and versatile styles: the stout. This month-long event invites breweries, bars, and beer enthusiasts across the United States to honor the rich, roasty, and often decadent flavors of stouts, from classic Irish dry stouts to innovative barrel-aged imperial stouts. Breweries often release special stout variants, host tap takeovers, and organize tasting events to showcase the style’s diversity, featuring flavors like coffee, chocolate, vanilla, or even experimental ingredients like chili or fruit. National Stout Month not only highlights the creativity of brewers but also brings communities together to savor these bold, comforting beers during the chilly winter season, making it a must-experience for craft beer lovers.

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