Dow Scoggins

National Barrel Aged Beer Day – October 3, 2025

October 17, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

The return of Barrel Aged Beer Day is October 3, 2025! For this global holiday, we honor the people, passion and time invested in creating beautiful, barrel-aged beers.

The first Friday of October is Barrel Aged Beer Day. Brewers and beer drinkers should celebrate with colleagues and customers alike. A tap takeover featuring beers that have been in contact with wood, an educational panel about the processes involved and special bottle releases are all great ways to give a nod to the art form.

2025 U.S, Open Beer Championship Barrel Aged Medal Winners

Barrel-Aged Dark Beer
Gold: Plaid Habit – Boulevard Brewing Company – Missouri
Silver: Buffal-Oak Stout – Full Fledged Brewing Co. – Iowa

Barrel-Aged Strong Beer
Gold: Royal Oil – Bull & Bush Brewery – Colorado
Silver: The Brawler – Northern Row – Ohio
Bronze: Perpetual Peace – No Label Brewing Co – Texas

Barrel-Aged Strong Stout/Porter
Gold: GSO Barrel Select Stout 2024 – Forgotten Road Ales – North Carolina
Silver: 3 year Barrel Aged Family Reserve Sleepy Bear – Werk Force Brewing – Illinois
Bronze: Eclipse – Frey Ranch – FiftyFifty Brewing Co. – California

Barrel-Aged Strong/Porter Extreme (12.5%+)
Gold: Assassin – Toppling Goliath Brewing Company – Iowa
Silver: Sir Blends A-Lot #5 – Mikerphone Brewing- Illinois
Bronze: Barrel God Cuvée – 2025 Blend Lupulin Brewing Company – Minnesota
Bronze: Rye Barrel Aged Night Whale 2023 – Rhinegeist Brewery – Ohio

Barrel-Aged Strong Stout/Porter Specialty
Gold: Maple Grenade – Silver Harbor Brewing – Michigan
Silver: BA Pumpkinhead – Pontoon Brewing – Georgia
Bronze: Ammo Can: Lima One – Forgotten Road Ales – North Carolina

Barrel-Aged Breakfast Stout
Gold: Kentucky Brunch Brand Stout – Toppling Goliath Brewing Company – Iowa
Silver: Blackout Brunch – Turning Point Beer – Texas
Bronze: Brunch with Santa – Low Tide Brewing – South Carolina

Barrel-Aged Fruited Sour Beer
Gold: Daydreamer – Vista Brewing – Texas
Silver: The Virtue of Patience – Bold Monk Brewing Co – Georgia
Bronze: Angels in the Architecture – Bold Monk Brewing Co – Georgia
Bronze: Black Angel – Wicked Weed Brewing – North Carolina

Wood/Barrel-Aged Fruit Beer
Gold: How Sweet It Is – Cherry Street Brewing at Halcyon – Georgia
Silver: Huckleberry Hounds – Bull & Bush Brewery – Colorado
Bronze: Barrel Aged Skooma – Fabled Brew Works – Kentucky

Wood/Barrel-Aged Strong Scotch Ale
Gold: Old Chungus – Confluence Brewing Company – Iowa
Silver: Diddy Muckle – Sun King Brewery – Indiana
Bronze: Get in My Belly – Cherry Street Brewing at Halcyon – Georgia

Barrel-Aged Barley Wine
Gold: Barrel Aged Matters of Importance – Narrow Path Brewing Company – Ohio
Silver: 12.12.12 2024 – Cherry Street Brewing at Vickery Village – Georgia
Bronze: Kelly’s Private Stash – Third Eye Brewing Company (Hamilton) – Ohio

Barrel-Aged Quad/Belgian Dark Ale
Gold: To Be Loved By You – Cherry Street Brewing at Halcyon – Georgia
Silver: Muese Valley – More Brewing Company- Illinois
Bronze: Barrel Reserve 2025 – River North Brewery – Colorado

Blended Barrel-Aged Beer
Gold: In the Black – Taxman Brewing Company – Indiana
Silver: Nullification – Woodland Farm Brewery – New York
Bronze: 5th Anniversary Blend – Third Eye Brewing Company (Hamilton) – Ohio

Rum Barrel-Aged Beer
Gold: Soul Shakedown Party – Sun King Brewery – Indiana
Silver: Big Hands I Know Your The One – Unrefined Brewing – Florida
Bronze: Ghoul Fuel: The Rum Diaries – Bull & Bush Brewery – Colorado

Spirits Barrel-Aged Beer (Non-Whiskey)
Gold: Shadow King Maple Cognac – Monday Night Brewing – Georgia
Silver: The Path – Bold Monk Brewing Co – Georgia
Bronze: Double Oaked Cognac Grow Old With You – Verboten Brewing and Barrel Project – Colorado

Wine Barrel-Aged Beer
Gold: Port Barrel Qualified – Taxman Brewing Company – Indiana
Silver: Heaviest Snuggz – Forbidden Root Columbus – Ohio
Bronze: Shadow King Syrah – Monday Night Brewing – Georgia

Barrel-Aged German Lager
Gold: BA New Old Stock – Bissell Brothers – Maine
Silver: BA Doppelbock 2024 – Lupulin Brewing Company – Minnesota
Bronze: Bourbon Barrel Aged Toasted Pecan Dopplebock – Saddle Mountain Brewing Company – Arizona
Bronze: Wild Dreams: Chapter 2 – Wild Barley Kitchen and Brewery – Texas

For Fun Beer Facts, Trivia and more: Click Here

101 Beer Jokes to Crack Open a Laugh

October 13, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

101 Beer Jokes to Crack Open a Laugh

Raise a glass and get ready to chuckle with our ultimate list of 101 beer jokes! Whether you’re a craft beer nerd, a lager loyalist, or just love a good pun, these funny beer puns and brewery humor quips will have you hopping with laughter. From IPA-inspired zingers to stout-hearted one-liners, we’ve brewed up a batch of original gags perfect for sharing at the bar or on National Craft Beer Day. So, grab a cold one, settle in, and let’s tap into the fun—no designated driver required for these laughs!

Beer Jokes

Why did the beer go to therapy? It had too many “deep-rooted” hops issues!
What’s a beer’s favorite workout? The keg lift!
Why don’t beers ever fight? They just settle it over a pint.
How do you know a beer is shy? It’s always hiding behind the foam.
What did the IPA say to the lager? “You’re too pale for my taste!”
Why was the beer can embarrassed? It got caught chilling in the fridge.
What’s a brewer’s favorite dance? The hop-and-skip!
Why did the stout refuse to date? It was too dark and brooding.
How do beers flirt? They give a foamy wink.
Why did the beer join a band? It had the best “pitcher”!
What’s a beer’s favorite holiday? National Beer Can Appreciation Day, of course!
Why was the ale so confident? It knew it was well-brewed.
What did the bartender say to the overconfident beer? “Don’t get too hoppy!”
Why don’t beers use dating apps? They prefer to meet at the tap.
What’s a beer’s favorite book? The Great Gats-beer.
Why did the beer fail at stand-up? Its jokes were too flat.
How do you cheer up a sad beer? Give it a little headspace.
What’s a beer’s dream job? A professional chiller.
Why did the porter go to school? To improve its “body” of knowledge.
What did the beer say to the glass? “You complete me.”
Why was the brewery so cool? It had the best fans—ceiling and human!
What’s a beer’s favorite sport? Keg-tossing.
Why don’t beers ever lie? They’re always transparent in the glass.
How do beers stay in touch? They send bottle messages.
Why did the beer blush at the bar? It overheard some “steamy” brewing talk.
What’s a brewer’s favorite instrument? The barley-cello.
Why did the IPA get kicked out of the party? It was too bitter.
What did the beer say to the wine? “You’re too grapey for this crowd.”
Why do beers love summer? They get to chill by the pool.
What’s a beer’s favorite movie? Brewed Awakening.
Why was the lager so calm? It was brewed with deCAF!
How do beers travel? In a six-pack road trip.
Why did the beer go to therapy? It couldn’t handle the pressure of being canned.
What’s a beer’s favorite game? Truth or Dare—you always pick pour!
Why don’t beers ever retire? They love staying in circulation.
What did the stout say to the pilsner? “You’re looking a little light.”
Why was the beer can so fit? It did daily crunches in the pack.
How do you know a beer is fancy? It demands a frosted glass.
Why did the ale join a choir? It had a rich, malty voice.
What’s a brewer’s favorite weather? A frosty forecast.
Why don’t beers ever argue? They just foam over differences.
What did the beer say at the gym? “Time to work on my hops!”
Why was the brewery so loud? Too many beers were fermenting!
How do beers stay motivated? They keep their spirits high.
Why did the beer refuse to share? It was a little too hoppy.
What’s a beer’s favorite dessert? A frothy float.
Why did the IPA go to art school? It loved bold strokes.
What did the bartender say to the impatient beer? “Hold your head, I’m pouring!”
Why don’t beers play chess? They’d drink the knight away.
What’s a beer’s favorite song? “Sweet Caroline”—it’s a bar classic!
Why was the stout so wise? It had years of barrel-aging.
How do beers celebrate? With a toast and a clink!
Why did the beer can go to therapy? It felt too “boxed in.”
What’s a brewer’s favorite flower? Hops, naturally!
Why did the lager get promoted? It was always cool under pressure.
What did the beer say to the soda? “You’re too bubbly for me.”
Why don’t beers ever get lost? They follow the tap lines.
What’s a beer’s favorite vacation spot? The Brew-hamas.
Why was the ale so popular? It had a lot of “character.”
How do beers apologize? With a frothy “I’m sorry.”
Why did the beer join a book club? It wanted to discuss Malt and Prejudice.
What’s a brewer’s favorite animal? A hoppy kangaroo.
Why did the IPA refuse to chill? It liked being a little bitter.
What did the beer say to the fridge? “You’re my coolest friend.”
Why don’t beers ever gossip? They keep things bottled up.
What’s a beer’s favorite hobby? Can collecting, obviously!
Why was the brewery so romantic? It was full of steamy brews.
How do beers stay organized? They stick to the six-pack plan.
Why did the stout go to therapy? It had an identity crisis with porter.
What’s a beer’s favorite joke? Anything with a good punchline!
Why did the beer can go to school? To improve its “can-fidence.”
How do beers make friends? They bond over a cold one.
Why was the lager so chill? It was brewed with zen.
What did the beer say to the tap? “You’re my lifeline.”
Why don’t beers ever panic? They just take a deep sip.
What’s a brewer’s favorite board game? Risk—because brewing’s a gamble!
Why did the IPA get a tattoo? To show off its bold side.
What did the beer say at the party? “I’m here to liven things up!”
Why was the ale so artsy? It loved painting with malt.
How do beers stay fit? They do keg curls.
Why did the beer can blush? It was caught in a steamy bar scene.
What’s a beer’s favorite TV show? Breaking Brew.
Why don’t beers ever quit? They’re too hopped up to stop.
What did the stout say to the IPA? “You’re too hoppy for your own good.”
Why was the brewery so eco-friendly? It recycled every can!
How do beers say goodbye? “Catch you on the next pour!”
Why did the lager go to yoga? To find its inner fizz.
What’s a beer’s favorite dance move? The frothy twirl.
Why was the ale so talkative? It was full of malt-itude.
How do beers handle stress? They just ferment it out.
Why did the beer can go to the gym? To get a little “canned.”
What’s a brewer’s favorite season? Fall—for the harvest ales!
Why don’t beers ever oversleep? They’re always up with the yeast.
What did the beer say to the bartender? “Make it quick, I’m losing my head!”
Why was the IPA so adventurous? It loved exploring new hops.
How do beers stay trendy? They follow the craft craze.
Why did the stout join a book club? It loved dark, complex stories.
What’s a beer’s favorite car? A Brew-ick.
Why don’t beers ever get bored? They’re always fermenting new ideas.
What did the beer say to the glass? “Let’s make some bubbles!”
Why do beers make the best friends? They’re always down for a pour!

Here’s more!
102. Why do they never serve beer at math parties? Because you can’t drink and derive!

103. What did the man with a slab of asphalt under his arm order at the bar? “A beer, please—and one for the road.”

104. A skeleton walks into a bar and orders a beer… and a mop.

105. Beer doesn’t make you fat—it makes you lean (against tables, chairs, walls, and random strangers).

106. Some people see the glass half empty, others see it half full—I just wonder who’s been drinking my beer!

Beer Quotes – A collection of famous beer quotes

2019 Great American Beer Festival Medal Winners

October 7, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

The 2019 Great American Beer Festival (GABF), held October 3-5 in Denver, Colorado, was a landmark celebration of American craft brewing. This premier event drew approximately 60,000 attendees who sampled over 4,000 beers from around 800 breweries across the massive Colorado Convention Center floor.

As the nation’s largest beer festival, GABF showcased the diversity and innovation of U.S. craft beer, with enthusiastic crowds enjoying unlimited 1-ounce pours, interactive booths, and a vibrant atmosphere dedicated to hoppy IPAs, crisp lagers, sours, and more.

The competition side of the 2019 GABF was equally impressive, featuring a record 9,497 entries from 2,295 breweries judged blindly across 107 categories encompassing 174 beer styles.

A panel of 322 expert judges awarded 318 medals (gold, silver, and bronze) to 283 breweries, highlighting standout beers in highly competitive fields like Juicy or Hazy IPA (with 348 entries). Notable honors included Comrade Brewing Co. (Denver) as Small Brewing Company of the Year and Westbound & Down Brewing Co. (Idaho Springs) as Mid-Size Brewpub of the Year, underscoring the event’s role in recognizing excellence in American craft beer.

2019 Great American Beer Festival Medal Winners
Category 1: American-Style Wheat Beer
Silver: Cumberland Punch, East Nashville Beer Works, Nashville, TN
Bronze: Termes Beer, Spearfish Brewing Co., Spearfish, SD

Category 2: American-Style Fruit Beer
Gold: Salt River, Historic Brewing Co., Flagstaff, AZ
Silver: Quat, Tampa Bay Brewing Co. – Ybor City, Tampa, FL
Bronze: Boom Dynamite, O.H.S.O. Brewery + Distillery, Phoenix, AZ

Category 3: Fruit Wheat Beer
Gold: Bitchin’ Berry, Great Basin Brewing Co. – Production Facility, Reno, NV
Silver: Cherry Wheat, Sierra Blanca Brewing Co., Moriarty, NM
Bronze: Smash, 10 Barrel Brewing Co., Bend, OR

Category 4: Belgian-Style Fruit Beer
Gold: Foxy Lady, Silver City Brewery, Bremerton, WA
Silver: All the Goodness, Gezellig Brewing Co., Newton, IA
Bronze: Cherry Valley Farmhouse, Heritage Hill Brewhouse & Kitchen, Pompey, NY

Category 5: Pumpkin/Squash Beer or Pumpkin Spice Beer
Gold: Whole Hog Pumpkin Ale, Stevens Point Brewery, Stevens Point, WI
Silver: Pumpkin Rumble, Mistress Brewing Co., Ankeny, IA
Bronze: Pumpkinator, Saint Arnold Brewing Co., Houston, TX

Category 6: Field Beer
Gold: Scoring Discrepancies, Listermann Brewing Co., Cincinnati, OH
Silver: Dessert Station: Cherry Almond Cookie, Corporate Ladder Brewing Co., Palmetto, FL
Bronze: Grandma’s Pecan, The Dudes’ Brewing Co., Somis, CA

Category 7: Chili Beer
Gold: Jalapeno Pineapple Pils, Brickway Brewery & Distillery, Omaha, NE
Silver: Bringin’ Da Heat, Devil’s Creek Brewery, Collingswood, NJ
Bronze: Oyster Jalapeno Porter, Bull Island Brewing Co., Hampton, VA

Category 8: Herb and Spice Beer
Gold: Kveik Thai Tom Kha, Shades Brewing, Park City, UT
Silver: One Night in Bangkok Smoothie IPA, Midland Brewing Co., Midland, MI
Bronze: Deck Daze, Vail Brewing Co. – Vail Village Pilot, Vail, CO

Category 9: Chocolate Beer – 68 Entries
Gold: Old Balltown Bulleit Bourbon Barrel Aged Salted Caramel Dark Chocolate Brownie Milk
Stout, PIVO Brewery, Calmar, IA
Silver: **Contains Chocolate**, Corporate Ladder Brewing Co., Palmetto, FL
Bronze: Somebody Else’s Dream, Fort Myers Brewing Co., Fort Myers, FL

Category 10: Coffee Beer
Gold: Duluth Coffee Pale Ale, Earth Rider Brewery, Superior, WI
Silver: Clear Sky Daybreak, Wolf’s Ridge Brewing, Columbus, OH
Bronze: Central Perk, Ambitious Ales, Long Beach, CA

Category 11: Coffee Stout or Porter
Gold: There is No Cow Level, GameCraft Brewing, Laguna Hills, CA
Silver: Portola Breakfast Stout, Tustin Brewing Co., Tustin, CA
Bronze: White Russian, SunUp Brewing Co., Phoenix, AZ

Category 12: Specialty Beer
Gold: Rye Hipster Brunch Stout, Odd Side Ales, Grand Haven, MI
Silver: Agavemente, SouthNorte Beer Co., San Diego, CA
Bronze: I Did It All For The Cookie, FiftyFifty Brewing Co., Truckee, CA

Category 13: Rye Beer – 53 Entries
Gold: Rye Dawn, Breakwater Brewing Co., Oceanside, CA
Silver: Unite the Clans, Third Space Brewing, Milwaukee, WI
Bronze: Suss it Out, Level Crossing Brewing Co., South Salt Lake, UT

Category 14: Honey Beer – 66 Entries
Gold: A&M Honey Bock, BJ’s Restaurant & Brewery – Boulder, Boulder, CO
Silver: Honey Hole, SpindleTap Brewery, Houston, TX
Bronze: Jetty, Great South Bay Brewery, Bay Shore, NY

Category 15: Non-Alcohol Beer or Alcohol-Free Beer
Gold: Enough Said N/A, Two Roots Brewing Co., San Diego, CA
Silver: Bravus Oatmeal Stout, Bravus Brewing Co., Newport Beach, CA
Bronze: Bravus Barrel-Aged Bourbon Stout, Bravus Brewing Co., Newport Beach, CA

Category 16: Session Beer
Gold: Texas Lager, Community Beer Co., Dallas, TX
Silver: Lite It!, Light the Lamp Brewery, Grayslake, IL
Bronze: Peacekeeper, Launch Pad Brewery, Aurora, CO

Category 17: Session India Pale Ale
Gold: Gravity Check, Kern River Brewing Co. – The Backyard, Kernville, CA
Silver: Trump Hands, Cannonball Creek Brewing Co., Golden, CO
Bronze: That IPA, Community Beer Works, Buffalo, NY

Category 18: Other Strong Beer
Gold: Northstar Imperial Porter, Twisted Pine Brewing Co., Boulder, CO
Silver: False Hope, Spilled Grain Brewhouse, Annandale, MN
Bronze: Double Brown Ale, Tumbleroot Brewery and Distillery, Santa Fe, NM

Category 19: Experimental Beer
Gold: Fungus Shui, Meadowlark Brewing, Sidney, MT
Silver: Shibbleshabble, Primitive Beer, Longmont, CO
Bronze: Fluffernutter, Kings Brewing Co., Rancho Cucamonga, CA

Category 20: Fresh Hop Beer
Gold: Fresh Hop Green Battles, Pinthouse Pizza North, Austin, TX
Silver: Hop Stalker, Fat Head’s Brewery – Canton, Canton, OH
Bronze: Aqua Seafoam Shame, Cloudburst Brewing, Seattle, WA

Category 21: Historical Beer
Silver: Afterburner Smoked Lager, Four Day Ray Brewing, Fishers, IN
Bronze: Decorah Nordic Gruit, PIVO Brewery, Calmar, IA

Category 22: Gluten-Free Beer
Gold: Boombastic Hazy IPA, Holidaily Brewing Co., Golden, CO
Silver: Co-Conspirator Apricot Sour, Revelation Craft Brewing Co., Rehoboth Beach, DE
Bronze: Grandpa’s Nap, Evasion Brewing – Production Facility, McMinnville, OR

Category 23: American-Belgo-Style Ale
Gold: Wit-Tington, Central District Brewing, Austin, TX
Silver: Tank 7 Farmhouse Ale, Boulevard Brewing Co., Kansas City, MO
Bronze: White Rainbow, Red Rock Brewery – Production, Salt Lake City, UT

Category 24: American-Style Sour Ale
Gold: Low pHunk, MobCraft Beer, Milwaukee, WI
Silver: Alegria, Millersburg Brewing, Millersburg, OH
Bronze: Citra Acid Test, Triple C Brewing, Charlotte, NC

Category 25: Fruited American-Style Sour Ale
Gold: Roxanne, St. Elmo Brewing Co., Austin, TX
Silver: Hoochie Mama, Storm Peak Brewing Co., Steamboat Springs, CO
Bronze: Sour Blackberry Raspberry, Edmund’s Oast Brewing Co., Charleston, SC

Category 26: Brett Beer – 58 Entries
Gold: Who’s Brett?, The Hold By Revelry Brewing, Charleston, SC
Silver: St. Eldritch, Cellar Works Brewing Co., Sarver, PA
Bronze: C’Mon Sunshine, Birds Fly South Ale Project, Greenville, SC

Category 27: Mixed-Culture Brett Beer
Gold: Standard Issue, Central Standard Brewing, Wichita, KS
Silver: Farmer’s Reserve No. 5, Almanac Beer Co., Alameda, CA
Bronze: Côte d’Or – Double Cerise, Rowley Farmhouse Ales, Santa Fe, NM

Category 28: Wood- and Barrel-Aged Beer
Gold: Amburana Dream, Denver Beer Co. – Olde Town Arvada, Arvada, CO
Silver: Gran Muckle, Sun King Brewing, Indianapolis, IN
Bronze: Bourbon Barrel Aged Lady In Red, Bombshell Beer Co., Holly Springs, NC

Category 29: Wood- and Barrel-Aged Strong Beer
Gold: Knotty Dog, Big Dog’s Brewing Co., Las Vegas, NV
Silver: Double Barrel Louie, Westbound & Down Brewing Co., Idaho Springs, CO
Bronze: Bourbon Legend, Great Heights Brewing Co., Houston, TX

Category 30: Wood- and Barrel-Aged Strong Stout
Gold: Barrel Aged Imperial Pajamas, Begyle Brewing, Chicago, IL
Silver: Ales from the Crypt: Te Quiero, O.H.S.O. Brewery – Gilbert, Gilbert, AZ
Bronze: Señor Rhino, Alesong Brewing & Blending – Tasting Room, Eugene, OR

Category 31: Wood- and Barrel-Aged Sour Beer
Gold: Sour Brown Aged on Palo Santo, Hi-Wire Brewing – South Slope, Asheville, NC
Silver: Agent Orange – Apple Brandy Barrel, Rowley Farmhouse Ales, Santa Fe, NM
Bronze: Reserve Doree, The Chamber By Wooden Robot Brewery, Charlotte, NC

Category 32: Fruited Wood- and Barrel-Aged Sour Beer
Gold: Midnight Choir, Sun King Brewing, Indianapolis, IN
Silver: Crimson Cherry Variant, Upland Brewing Co. – Bloomington Brewpub, Bloomington, IN
Bronze: Rossano, Kings Brewing Co., Rancho Cucamonga, CA

Category 33: Aged Beer
Gold: A Creator’s Calling, The Lost Abbey, San Marcos, CA
Silver: Belgian Quad, Green Mountain Beer Co., Lakewood, CO
Bronze: Mob Barley, Meadowlark Brewing, Sidney, MT

Category 34: Kellerbier or Zwickelbier
Gold: German Pilsner, Port City Brewing Co., Alexandria, VA
Silver: Loral Zwickelbier, Haas Innovations Brewing, Yakima, WA
Bronze: Stand By, Rockwell Beer Co., St. Louis, MO

Category 35: Smoke Beer
Gold: Red-Fish Rauchbock, Sockeye Brewing, Boise, ID
Silver: TF Brewing Rauch Bier, Templin Family Brewing, Salt Lake City, UT
Bronze: Up In Smoke, Fat Head’s Brewery – Canton, Canton, OH

Category 36: American-Style Lager or American-Style Pilsener
Gold: Lite Reading, Pollyanna Brewing Co., Lemont, IL
Silver: Valley Beer, Wren House Brewing Co., Phoenix, AZ
Bronze: Schaben’s, Thunderhead Brewing Co., Kearney, NE

Category 37: Contemporary American-Style Pilsener
Gold: Lazy River Pils, New Trail Brewing Co., Williamsport, PA
Silver: Citra Pils, Saint Archer Brewing Co., San Diego, CA
Bronze: Citraveza, Alvarado Street Brewery, Salinas, CA

Category 38: International-Style Pilsener
Gold: Torcido, Barebottle Brewing Co., San Francisco, CA
Silver: Upslope Craft Lager, Upslope Brewing Co. – Flatiron Park, Boulder, CO
Bronze: Party, MAP Brewing Co., Bozeman, MT

Category 39: Light Lager
Gold: Altitude Banquet, Altitude Chophouse and Brewery, Laramie, WY
Silver: Sif’s Light Lager, Odin Brewing Co., Tukwila, WA
Bronze: Lightner Creek Lager, Carver Brewing Co., Durango, CO

Category 40: India Pale Lager or Malt Liquor
Gold: Timbo Pils, Highland Park Brewery – Chinatown, Los Angeles, CA
Silver: Go Kart Mozart, MotoSonora Brewing Co., Tucson, AZ
Bronze: Yeah Buoy IPL, Logboat Brewing Co., Columbia, MO

Category 41: American-Style Cream Ale
Gold: Sea Señor! Mex Lager, SouthNorte Beer Co., San Diego, CA
Silver: Los Dudes’ Cerveza Lager Mexicana, The Dudes’ Brewing Co., Somis, CA
Bronze: Gold Style, Ballast Point Brewing Co. – Chicago, Chicago, IL

Category 42: American-Style Amber Lager
Gold: Märzen, Sudwerk Brewing Co., Davis, CA
Silver: Oktoberfest, Huss Brewing Co., Tempe, AZ
Bronze: Grist Maerzen, Grist Brewing Co., Highlands Ranch, CO

Category 43: German-Style Pilsener
Gold: Parliament Drive, Blind Owl Brewery, Indianapolis, IN
Silver: Golden Age Pilsner, Family Business Beer Co., Dripping Springs, TX
Bronze: Pils, Hardywood West Creek, Richmond, VA

Category 44: Bohemian-Style Pilsener – 123 Entries
Gold: Bohemian Shine, Castle Island Brewing Co., Norwood, MA
Silver: Bo Pils, East Brother Beer Co., Richmond, CA
Bronze: The People’s Pilsner, Sudwerk Brewing Co., Davis, CA

Category 45: Munich-Style Helles
Gold: Altstadt Lager, Altstadt Brewery, Fredericksburg, TX
Silver: Florida Sunshine, Crooked Can Brewing Co., Winter Garden, FL
Bronze: Wayfinder Hell, Wayfinder Beer, Portland, OR

Category 46: Dortmunder or German-Style Oktoberfest
Gold: Schnitzengiggles, New England Brewing Co., Woodbridge, CT
Silver: Lindauer Lager, Wit’s End Brewing Co., Denver, CO
Bronze: Chuckanut Fest Bier, Chuckanut Brewery – South Nut, Burlington, WA

Category 47: Vienna-Style Lager
Gold: Jomo, Starr Hill Brewery, Crozet, VA
Silver: Vienna Lager, Grains of Wrath Brewing, Camas, WA
Bronze: Moonlight Sonata, Chilly Water Brewing Co., Indianapolis, IN

Category 48: German-Style Maerzen
Gold: Oktoberfest, Bear Chase Brewing Co., Bluemont, VA
Silver: Rocktoberfest, Hutton & Smith Brewing Co., Chattanooga, TN
Bronze: Festie, Starr Hill Pilot Brewery & Side Stage, Roanoke, VA

Category 49: German-Style Dark Lager
Gold: Pious Monk Dunkel, Church Brew Works – Lawrenceville Brewery, Pittsburgh, PA
Silver: Black Lager, Bingo Beer Co., Richmond, VA
Bronze: Don’t Drop That Dun Dun Dunkel, TAPS Brewery & Barrel Room, Tustin, CA

Category 50: International-Style Dark Lager
Gold: Dark Horse, Snake River Brewing Co., Jackson, WY
Silver: El Corn, The Post Brewing Co., Lafayette, CO
Bronze: Schwarzbier, Hofbräuhaus Cleveland, Cleveland, OH

Category 51: Bock
Gold: Tackle Bock, Bobbing Bobber Brewing Co., Hutchinson, MN
Silver: Maibock, Dry Dock Brewing Co. – South Dock, Aurora, CO
Bronze: Dunkel Bock, Pilot Brewing Co., Charlotte, NC

Category 52: German-Style Doppelbock or Eisbock
Gold: Eis Nine, Sun King Brewing – Fishers Small Batch, Fishers, IN
Silver: Doppelbock, Scorched Earth Brewing Co., Algonquin, IL
Bronze: Eis Vienne, Devils Backbone Brewing Co. – Basecamp, Roseland, VA

Category 53: Baltic-Style Porter
Gold: Snap Yo’ Baltics, Freetail Brewing Co. – Brewpub, San Antonio, TX
Silver: Dark Reckoning, Morgan Territory Brewing, Tracy, CA
Bronze: Murder Ballads, Noble Beast Brewing Co., Cleveland, OH

Category 54: Golden or Blonde Ale
Gold: 1956 Golden Ale, Bootstrap Brewing, Longmont, CO
Silver: MadeWest Standard, MadeWest Brewing Co., Ventura, CA
Bronze: Luke’s Original, Lucky Luke Brewing Co., Palmdale, CA

Category 55: German-Style Koelsch
Gold: Altstadt Kolsch, Altstadt Brewery, Fredericksburg, TX
Silver: Ice Cutter Kölsch, Joyride Brewing Co., Edgewater, CO
Bronze: Dry Creek Blonde Ale, Santa Clara Valley Brewing, San Jose, CA

Category 56: English-Style Summer Ale
Gold: Organic California Blonde Ale, Eel River Brewing Co., Scotia, CA
Silver: Quid, Rhinegeist – Innovation Brewery, Cincinnati, OH
Bronze: Breakside Wentworth by the Sea, Breakside Brewery, Portland, OR

Category 57: English-Style or International-Style Pale Ale
Gold: Ferment Pale Ale, Ferment Brewing Co., Hood River, OR
Silver: Annadel Pale Ale, Third Street AleWorks, Santa Rosa, CA
Bronze: Endless Summer Nights, Cloudburst Brewing, Seattle, WA

Category 58: Australian-Style Pale Ale – 61 Entries
Gold: Australian For Pale, Green Cheek Beer Co., Orange, CA
Silver: Mountain Standard IPA, Odell Brewing Co., Fort Collins, CO
Bronze: Pete’s Stash, Vail Brewing Co. – Vail Village Pilot, Vail, CO

Category 59: American-Style Pale Ale
Gold: Johnny Utah, Georgetown Brewing Co., Seattle, WA
Silver: Acclimated APA, La Cumbre Brewing Co., Albuquerque, NM
Bronze: Breakside Woodlawn Pale Ale, Breakside Brewery, Portland, OR

Category 60: Juicy or Hazy Pale Ale
Gold: Gulp, Tribus Beer Co., Milford, CT
Silver: Itsy Bits, WeldWerks Brewing Co., Greeley, CO
Bronze: Mo-Haze-Ic, Migration Brewing Co. – Wilkes, Portland, OR

Category 61: American-Style Strong Pale Ale
Gold: Superpower IPA, Comrade Brewing Co., Denver, CO
Silver: NoPac IPA, Crossbuck Brewing, Walla Walla, WA
Bronze: JAF IPA, JAFB Wooster Brewery, Wooster, OH

Category 62: Juicy or Hazy Strong Pale Ale
Gold: Breakside What Rough Beast, Breakside Brewery – NW Slabtown, Portland, OR
Silver: Kaaterskill, West Kill Brewing, West Kill, NY
Bronze: Goofy Boots, Penrose Brewing Co., Geneva, IL

Category 63: American-Style India Pale Ale
Gold: More Dodge Less RAM, Comrade Brewing Co., Denver, CO
Silver: Radiant Beauty, Green Cheek Beer Co., Orange, CA
Bronze: Weekend Vibes IPA, Coronado Brewing Co. – Production Facility, San Diego, CA

Category 64: Juicy or Hazy India Pale Ale
Gold: Beezer, Old Irving Brewing Co., Chicago, IL
Silver: Hazy IPA, City Lights Brewing Co., Milwaukee, WI
Bronze: Devil’s Gulch, Pond Farm Brewing Co., San Rafael, CA

Category 65: Emerging India Pale Ale
Gold: Pure Tropics, Parish Brewing Co., Broussard, LA
Silver: Vladimir Brutin, Cannonball Creek Brewing Co., Golden, CO

Category 66: Imperial India Pale Ale
Gold: Double Cone, Alvarado Street Brewery, Salinas, CA
Silver: Westbound Double IPA, Westbound & Down Brewing Co., Idaho Springs, CO
Bronze: Sharrow, Brew Hub, Lakeland, FL

Category 67: Juicy or Hazy Imperial India Pale Ale
Gold: Extra Extra Juicy Bits, WeldWerks Brewing Co., Greeley, CO
Silver: Juice Jockey, Phantom Ales, Anaheim, CA
Bronze: Chaos Emeralds, Lone Pine Brewing Company – Gorham, Gorham, ME

Category 68: American-Style Amber/Red Ale
Gold: Diablo Rojo, Boneyard Beer, Bend, OR
Silver: 1890 Founder’s Ale, Grayton Beer Co., Santa Rosa Beach, FL
Bronze: Red Alert, Aftershock Brewing Co., Temecula, CA

Category 69: Double Hoppy Red Ale
Gold: Station 101, Claremont Craft Ales, Claremont, CA
Silver: Side Hike, Kern River Brewing Co., Kernville, CA
Bronze: Cannon Ball, Migration Brewing Co. – Glisan, Portland, OR

Category 70: Imperial Red Ale
Gold: Bone Head Imperial Red, Fat Head’s Brewery & Saloon, North Olmsted, OH
Silver: Frogs Like Possum, King’s Court Brewing Co., Poughkeepsie, NY
Bronze: Gifted Gunslinger, Big Sexy Brewing Co., Sacramento, CA

Category 71: English-Style Mild Ale
Gold: Hold The Reins, Brink Brewing Co., Cincinnati, OH
Silver: Sliding Rock, BearWaters Brewing Co., Canton, NC
Bronze: Saddle Bronc Brown, Black Tooth Brewing Co., Sheridan, WY

Category 72: Ordinary or Special Bitter
Gold: Chronic Amber Ale, Pizza Port – Bressi Ranch, Carlsbad, CA
Silver: Cousin Jack, Dostal Alley Brewpub & Casino, Central City, CO
Bronze: Milford Pub Ale, River’s Edge Brewing Co., Milford, MI

Category 73: Extra Special Bitter
Gold: ESB, Hillman Beer, Asheville, NC
Silver: Bridgeview, Henderson Brewing Co., Henderson, KY
Bronze: Red Ale, The Vanguard Brewpub & Distillery, Hampton, VA

Category 74: English-Style India Pale Ale
Gold: Hop’lin IPA, Southbound Brewing Co., Savannah, GA
Silver: Shanghai’d IPA, Old Town Brewing, Portland, OR
Bronze: Hoppy Poppy, Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. – Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA

Category 75: Scottish-Style Ale
Gold: Taildragger Clan-Destine, Saddle Mountain Brewing Co., Goodyear, AZ
Silver: Yarmouth, Arkane Aleworks, Largo, FL
Bronze: Thistle Dew, Ursa Minor Brewing, Duluth, MN

Category 76: Irish-Style Red Ale
Gold: Outraged Daughters, Wise Man Brewing, Winston-Salem, NC
Silver: Balefire Irish Red, Mirror Image Brewing Co., Frederick, CO
Bronze: Red Molly Irish Red Ale, Pale Fire Brewing Co., Harrisonburg, VA

Category 77: English-Style Brown Ale
Gold: Bobcat Brown Ale, Bridger Brewing, Bozeman, MT
Silver: Eclipse Brown Ale, Equinox Brewing, Fort Collins, CO
Bronze: Mischievous Brown, Helltown Brewing, Export, PA

Category 78: American-Style Brown Ale –
Gold: Naked Sunbather, Mad Swede Brewing Co., Boise, ID
Silver: Bull Creek Brown Ale, Springfield Brewing Co., Springfield, MO
Bronze: Browner Than Ivan, Chula Vista Brewery, Chula Vista, CA

Category 79: American-Style Black Ale
Gold: Alpha Force Double Tap, Überbrew, Billings, MT
Silver: Bowie Knife, Thunderhawk Alements, San Diego, CA
Bronze: Turmoil, Barley Brown’s Beer, Baker City, OR

Category 80: German-Style Sour Ale
Gold: Meier, Rowley Farmhouse Ales, Santa Fe, NM
Silver: Meersalz, Narrow Gauge Brewing Co., Florissant, MO
Bronze: And the Award Gose to…, Big Dog’s Brewing Co., Las Vegas, NV

Category 81: Specialty Berliner Weisse
Gold: Midwestern Exotic, Barrel Theory Beer Co., St. Paul, MN
Silver: Jungalow Juice, Arrow Lodge Brewing, Covina, CA
Bronze: Raspberry Vermonter Weiss, 14th Star Brewing Co., Saint Albans, VT

Category 82: Contemporary Gose
Gold: Cruise to Nowhere, Town Brewing Co., Charlotte, NC
Silver: Mimosa Gose, Pilot Brewing Co., Charlotte, NC
Bronze: Galactic Minotaurt, True Vine Brewing Co., Tyler, TX

Category 83: German-Style Altbier
Gold: Rhine Heights ALT, Vintage Brewing Co. – Madison, Madison, WI
Silver: Howitzer Amber, Red Leg Brewing Co., Colorado Springs, CO
Bronze: Jeremy Altbier, The Royal Oak Brewery, Royal Oak, MI

Category 84: South German-Style Hefeweizen
Gold: Prosperity Wheat, Market Garden Brewery – Production Brewery, Cleveland, OH
Silver: Hug Deal Gone Sideweiss, Gezellig Brewing Co., Newton, IA
Bronze: Leisel Weapon, Noon Whistle Brewing Co., Lombard, IL

Category 85: German-Style Wheat Ale
Gold: Krystal Clear, TAPS Brewery & Barrel Room, Tustin, CA
Silver: Dunkelweisse, Swashbuckler Brewing Co., Manheim, PA
Bronze: HefeWeizen, Live Oak Brewing Co., Austin, TX

Category 86: Belgian-Style Blonde Ale or Pale Ale
Gold: Nènette, Kern River Brewing Co. – The Backyard, Kernville, CA
Silver: Hell’s Keep, Squatters Craft Beers, Salt Lake City, UT
Bronze: Suddenly a Saint, Moonraker Brewing Co., Auburn, CA

Category 87: Belgian-Style Witbier
Gold: Way West Wit, Zuni Street Brewing Co., Denver, CO
Silver: Boeman Belgian White, Ogopogo Brewing, San Gabriel, CA
Bronze: Under a Blood Orange Sky, Temblor Brewing Co., Bakersfield, CA

Category 88: Classic Saison – 106 Entries
Gold: Meadowlark, Metazoa Brewing Co., Indianapolis, IN
Silver: Summer Opal, Firestone Walker – The Propagator, Marina Del Rey, CA
Bronze: Gray Matter, Aspetuck Brew Lab, Bridgeport, CT

Category 89: Specialty Saison
Gold: Obeisance, Von Ebert Brewing – Glendoveer, Portland, OR
Silver: Westfield, Cellar West Artisan Ales, Lafayette, CO
Bronze: Palisade #2, Fortside Brewing Co., Vancouver, WA

Category 90: Belgian- and French-Style Ale
Gold: Junebug, Echo Brewing Co., Erie, CO
Silver: Swingin’ Single, Piece Brewery, Chicago, IL
Bronze: Industrial Gris, Resident Brewing Co., San Diego, CA

Category 91: Belgian-Style Lambic or Sour Ale
Gold: Get The Funk Out, Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project, Denver, CO
Silver: Olly, Free Will Brewing Co., Perkasie, PA
Bronze: Saison Apothēca, Yeast of Eden, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA

Category 92: Belgian-Style Dubbel
Gold: Dedication, Vintage Brewing Co. – Madison, Madison, WI
Silver: Belgian Dubbel, Sugar Creek Brewing Co., Charlotte, NC
Bronze: OB Bubble Dubbel, Kilowatt Brewing, San Diego, CA

Category 93: Belgian-Style Tripel
Gold: Princeps Pacis, Save The World Brewing Co., Marble Falls, TX
Silver: Marvella, Red Rock Brewery – Production, Salt Lake City, UT
Bronze: Triple-Whirl, 217 Brew Works, Wilson, NC

Category 94: Belgian-Style Pale Strong Ale
Gold: Fu Fighter, Good River Beer, Denver, CO
Silver: Sandy Dunes Saison, River Bluff Brewing, St. Joseph, MO
Bronze: Stay Gold, Bluebird Brasserie, Sherman Oaks, CA

Category 95: Belgian-Style Dark Strong Ale or Belgian-Style Quadrupel
Gold: Quad Damn It, Chicago Brewing Co. – Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV
Silver: Séréneté Grand Cru, Bruz Beers, Denver, CO
Bronze: Sisters Quad, Bitter Sisters Brewing Co., Addison, TX

Category 96: Other Belgian-Style Ale
Gold: Very, Very Far, Off Color Brewing, Chicago, IL
Silver: Conquer Then Divide, Barrage Brewing Co., Farmingdale, NY
Bronze: Pentuple, Hoppin’ Frog Brewing, Akron, OH

Category 97: Brown Porter
Gold: Maduro Brown Ale, Cigar City Brewing, Tampa, FL
Silver: Brown Claw, Kern River Brewing Co. – The Backyard, Kernville, CA
Bronze: Honey Porter, Cape May Brewing Co. – Rio Grande, Cape May, NJ

Category 98: Robust Porter
Gold: Tabula Rasa, Second Chance Beer Co., San Diego, CA
Silver: Powell Street Porter, Bartlett Hall, San Francisco, CA
Bronze: Shadowcaster Porter, Folklore Brewing & Meadery, Dothan, AL

Category 99: Classic Irish-Style Dry Stout
Gold: SeaSide Stout, Pizza Port – Solana Beach, Solana Beach, CA
Silver: Shooter McMunn’s, Lost Rhino Brewing Co., Ashburn, VA
Bronze: O’Dark Thirty, 6 Bears & A Goat Brewing Co., Fredericksburg, VA

Category 100: Export Stout
Gold: Correspondent, Wander Brewing, Bellingham, WA
Silver: Thor’s Shadow Imperial Stout, Odin Brewing Co., Tukwila, WA
Bronze: Void of Light, Gun Hill Brewing Co., Bronx, NY

Category 101: American-Style Stout
Gold: Black Cliffs, Boise Brewing, Boise, ID
Silver: Stone Liberty Station Cimmerian Portal, Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens – Liberty
Station, San Diego, CA
Bronze: Kilgore, Beachwood BBQ & Brewing, Long Beach, CA

Category 102: Sweet Stout or Cream Stout
Gold: Moozie, Brink Brewing Co., Cincinnati, OH
Silver: Emperor Norton’s Sweet Stout, 21st Amendment Brewery, San Leandro, CA
Bronze: Volcano Mudslide Sweet Stout, Feather Falls Brewing Co., Oroville, CA

Category 103: Oatmeal Stout
Gold: 80 Chain Stout, MAP Brewing Co., Bozeman, MT
Silver: Yonder Mountain Stout, Vine Street Pub & Brewery, Denver, CO
Bronze: Shaman Stout, Toltec Brewing Co., Albuquerque, NM

Category 104: Imperial Stout
Gold: The Russian, 2SP Brewing Co., Aston, PA
Silver: Black Cauldron Imperial Stout, Grand Teton Brewing, Victor, ID
Bronze: Rescue Buoy Imperial Stout, Rip Current Brewing, San Marcos, CA

Category 105: Scotch Ale
Gold: Knuckle Dragger, Dueces Wild Brewery, Colorado Springs, CO
Silver: Real Heavy, Real Ale Brewing Co., Blanco, TX
Bronze: Wee Heavy Metal, Hutton & Smith Brewing Co. – M. L. King, Chattanooga, TN

Category 106: Old Ale or Strong Ale
Gold: Private Stock Ale, AleSmith Brewing Co., San Diego, CA
Silver: Old Scrooge, Silver City Brewery, Bremerton, WA
Bronze: Last Will and Testament, Monday Night Brewing – Garage, Atlanta, GA

Category 107: Barley Wine-Style Ale
Gold: Old Diablo, Morgan Territory Brewing, Tracy, CA
Silver: Freebooter Barleywine, Coronado Brewing Co., Coronado, CA
Bronze: Three Ryes Men, Reuben’s Brews – The Taproom, Seattle, WA

Pro-Am Competition
Gold: Distemper, IMBĪB Custom Brews, Reno, NV
Brewmaster: IMBĪB Brew Crew
AHA Member: Lance Newlin
Silver: Leicht, Precarious Beer Project – Beer Hall, Williamsburg, VA
Brewmaster: Greg Fleehart
AHA Member: Joel Miller
Bronze: Chess with Checkers, New Belgium Brewing Co., Fort Collins, CO
Brewmaster: The Employee Owners of New Belgium
AHA Member: Erich Purcell

Collaboration Competition
Gold: Getting By on Central Time, Sun King Brewing, Indianapolis, IN
Indiana Brewers Guild Beer Brigadiers
Silver: Are You Pricklish?, Taft’s Brewing Co., Cincinnati, OH
Against the Grain Brewing, Louisville, KY
Bronze: Willie Big Dog, Public Coast Brewing Co., Cannon Beach, OR
Big Dog’s Brewing CO., Las Vegas, NV

2019 Brewery and Brewer of the Year Awards
Small Brewpub and Small Brewpub Brewer of the Year
Sponsored by Briess Malt & Ingredients Co.
Rowley Farmhouse Ales, Santa Fe, NM
Rowley Farmhouse Ales

Mid-Size Brewpub and Mid-Size Brewpub Brewer of the Year
Sponsored by Brewers Supply Group
Westbound & Down Brewing Co., Idaho Springs, CO
Westbound & Down Brewery Team

Large Brewpub and Large Brewpub Brewer of the Year
Sponsored by The Country Malt Group
Vintage Brewing Co. – Madison, Madison, WI
Drinking Fresh Thinking

Very Small Brewing Company and Very Small Brewing Company Brewer of the Year
Sponsored by Brewers Supply Group
Brink Brewing Co., Cincinnati, OH
Brink Brew Crew

Small Brewing Company and Small Brewing Company Brewer of the Year
Sponsored by ABS Commercial
Comrade Brewing Co., Denver, CO
Marks Lanham & David Lin

Mid-Size Brewing Company and Mid-Size Brewing Company Brewer of the Year
Sponsored by MicroStar Logistics
Silver City Brewery, Bremerton, WA
Silver City Brew Team

Brewery Group and Brewery Group Brewer of the Year
Sponsored by Live Oak Bank
Kern River Brewing Co., Kernville, CA
KRBC Brew Team

The Brewers Association

The Brewers Association (BA) is a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit trade association dedicated to promoting and protecting small and independent American craft brewers, their beers, and the community of brewing enthusiasts. As an organization of brewers, for brewers, and by brewers, the BA represents over 9,700 operating craft breweries nationwide, supporting more than 443,000 jobs and contributing significantly to local economies. Through advocacy, education, events like the Craft Brewers Conference and Great American Beer Festival, and resources such as the independent craft brewer seal, the BA fosters innovation, sustainability, and growth within the dynamic U.S. craft beer industry.

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

Celebrating National Body Language Day: Unlock the Power of Nonverbal Communication

October 3, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Every year on the first Friday of October, we celebrate National Body Language Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the silent yet powerful ways we communicate without words. In 2025, this special day falls on October 3, and it’s the perfect opportunity to dive into the fascinating world of nonverbal cues, from a confident handshake to a subtle eyebrow raise. Whether you’re a people-watcher, a professional looking to boost your communication skills, or just curious about what your crossed arms might be saying, this day is for you!

What Is National Body Language Day?
National Body Language Day was created to raise awareness about the importance of nonverbal communication in our daily lives. Founded by body language expert Blanca Cobb, this annual celebration highlights how gestures, facial expressions, posture, and eye contact shape our interactions. It’s a day to learn, observe, and maybe even laugh at the quirky ways we “talk” without saying a word.

Did you know that studies suggest up to 93% of communication is nonverbal? That’s right—your words might only be a small piece of the puzzle. Tone of voice, body posture, and facial expressions often speak louder than what you say. National Body Language Day encourages us to become more mindful of these cues and use them to connect more effectively.

Why Body Language Matters
Body language is like a secret superpower. It can help you:

Build stronger relationships: A warm smile or open posture can make others feel comfortable and valued.
Boost your confidence: Standing tall with shoulders back can make you feel more powerful and assertive.
Ace professional settings: From job interviews to presentations, mastering nonverbal cues can set you apart.
Understand others better: Reading body language can help you pick up on unspoken emotions or intentions.

On National Body Language Day, take a moment to reflect on how your nonverbal signals impact those around you. Are you sending the right message?

Fun Ways to Celebrate National Body Language Day
Ready to get in on the fun? Here are some engaging ways to celebrate this unique day:

Play a Body Language Game
Gather friends or family and try to communicate a message using only gestures—no words allowed! It’s like charades but with a focus on everyday nonverbal cues. You’ll be amazed at how much you can “say” without speaking.
Observe and Learn
Spend the day people-watching (respectfully, of course!). Notice how strangers use body language in conversations. Are they leaning in, mirroring each other, or maybe avoiding eye contact? Jot down your observations and see what patterns emerge.
Practice Power Poses
Channel your inner superhero with a power pose! Research by social psychologist Amy Cuddy suggests that standing in a confident pose (think hands on hips, chest out) for just two minutes can boost your confidence. Try it before a big meeting or just for fun!
Read Up on Nonverbal Cues
Pick up a book or watch a video by body language experts like Blanca Cobb or Joe Navarro. Learn how to decode crossed arms, fidgeting, or a quick smile. Bonus: You’ll feel like a detective in no time!
Share on Social Media
Spread the word about National Body Language Day using hashtags like #NationalBodyLanguageDay or #NonverbalCommunication. Share a fun fact or a photo of yourself striking a confident pose. Bonus points for a caption like, “My body language says I’m ready to celebrate! 💪”

Top Body Language Tips to Try Today
Want to up your nonverbal game? Here are some quick tips to practice on National Body Language Day:

Make Eye Contact: It shows confidence and interest, but don’t overdo it—staring can feel intense!
Smile Genuinely: A real smile (one that crinkles your eyes) makes you approachable and trustworthy.
Mirror Mindfully: Subtly mimicking someone’s posture or gestures can build rapport, but keep it natural.
Watch Your Posture: Stand or sit up straight to project confidence and engagement.
Be Aware of Personal Space: Respect others’ boundaries to make them feel comfortable.

Fun Facts About Body Language

It’s Universal (Sort Of): While some gestures, like smiling, are universal signs of happiness, others can vary by culture. For example, a thumbs-up is positive in many places but offensive in others.
Animals Use It Too: From a dog’s wagging tail to a cat’s arched back, animals rely heavily on body language to communicate.
It’s Hard to Fake: Your true emotions often leak through subtle cues, like a fleeting microexpression, even if you’re trying to hide them.

Wrap-Up: Let’s Talk Without Talking!
National Body Language Day is more than just a quirky holiday—it’s a chance to tune into the unspoken conversations happening all around us. On October 3, 2025, take a moment to celebrate the power of a nod, a wink, or a confident stance. Whether you’re decoding a friend’s crossed arms or practicing your own power pose, you’ll discover how much you can say without saying a word.

So, strike a pose, share a smile, and let’s celebrate the art of nonverbal communication! How will you mark National Body Language Day? Let us know in the comments or on social media with #NationalBodyLanguageDay!

For Fun Beer Facts, Trivia and more: Click Here

Brink Brewing Recognized As Brewery Of The Year at 2018 GABF

September 26, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Cincinnati’s College Hill powerhouse, Brink Brewing Co, just pulled off the ultimate craft beer underdog story at the 2018 Great American Beer Festival® (GABF®)! In only 19 months of operation, this neighborhood gem crushed the competition — and they did it with head brewer Kelly Montgomery fresh out of the hospital!

A great deal of effort goes into winning one let alone two GABF® medals, but rarely does that effort include a hospital stay. Kelly Montgomery, named Very Small Brewer of The Year, was in the hospital with a lung infection the weeks leading up to the dates scheduled to brew the batches submitted to this year’s competition. “We were honestly worried about making the deadline,” says Brink Brewing Co-Owner Sarah McGarry. “When he was released from the hospital Kelly jokingly said Eh, I think I’ve got just enough energy to squeeze out very small brewery of the year… “So, you can only imagine how stunned we were that it actually happened!”

Moozie is a rich Milk Stout. Like a chocolate milkshake without the straw, it features chocolate and coffee notes and is almost chewy thanks to the addition of lactose and flaked oats. This beer also boasts a bronze medal from the 2018 World Beer Cup®, silver at the inaugural Ohio Craft Brewers Cup earlier this year, a bronze from the 2017 Denver International Beer Competition and a gold medal from the 2017 U.S. Open Beer Championship after only being open for four months (one of the youngest breweries to place that year).

Hold the Reins is an English Mild, a classic “Session Ale” while still full flavored. Moderate sweetness, a bit nutty with a touch of caramel. Chocolate and roast notes give way to a dry finish. Last year Brink Brewing was awarded a gold medal for Hold The Reins in the same English Mild Ale category.

“Three GABF medals and Very Small Brewery of the Year in just 19 months of operation is even more than we ever could have hoped for, but tells us we are on the right track,” McGarry adds.

Moozie and Hold The Reins are available year-round on draft at Brink Brewing’s tasting room and at select craft-centric draft accounts in Cincinnati.

About Brink Brewing:
Discover Brink Brewing Co: Cincinnati’s Award-Winning Neighborhood Gem in College Hill! Nestled in the heart of College Hill, Cincinnati, Brink Brewing Co is your go-to craft brewery serving up fresh, flavorful beers in a cozy, welcoming taproom perfect for locals and beer lovers alike. In just under two years, this rising star has racked up an impressive trophy case of national and international honors:
🏅 3 Medals – 2017 Great American Beer Festival®
🥉 Bronze Medal – 2018 World Beer Cup®
🏆 7 Medals – U.S. Open Beer Competition
🌟 3 Wins – Ohio Craft Brewer Cup
🍺 2 Awards – Denver International Beer Competition
From hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, every pint is brewed with passion and precision. Whether you’re a craft beer newbie or a seasoned sipper, Brink’s friendly vibe and top-tier brews make it a must-visit Cincinnati hotspot. For more information visit brinkbrewing.com.

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

National Pancake Day – Drink a Renegade Pancakes Maple Porter

September 26, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Renegade Pancakes Maple Porter is dark and roasty and is uniquely balanced with the flavor and aroma of maple syrup without any of the sweetness. The unmistakable maple hits the nose right off the bat, with the smokiness of a traditional porter hitting your palate to create a balanced and dry experience. Perfect for an after snow day warm up or a mid-summer camping adventure.

Pairing:
Mole, vanilla, roasted squash, pulled pork, breakfast, bourbon and good friends.

Malt: 2-ROW, C55, BISCUIT, ROASTED BARLEY, CHOCOLATE

Hops: MT. HOOD, FRAGGLE

RENEGADE BREWING CO
720.401.4089
925 W 9TH AVE
Denver, Colorado, 80204
Website: renegadebrewing.com

NATIONAL PANCAKE DAY
The table is set, the batter is mixed, the griddle is hot, and the butter and syrup are ready. This means you are prepared for National Pancake Day. This food holiday is observed each year on September 26.

You may not have time to make a pancake breakfast, but that is okay, pancakes make a great dinner as well. Pancakes can be served at any time and with a variety of toppings or fillings from sweet jams and syrups to savory meats and sauces.

There is archaeological evidence suggesting pancakes are probably the earliest and most widespread breakfast food eaten in prehistoric societies.

HOW TO OBSERVE
To celebrate National Pancake Day, enjoy one of the following pancake recipes:

Lemon Blueberry Pancakes
Banana and Pecan Pancakes with Maple Butter
Applesauce Pancakes
Buttermilk Pancakes
Pumpkin Pancakes

HISTORY
National Pancake Day’s humble beginnings in 2005, originally started as Lumberjack Day. Marianne Ways and Collen AF Venable sought an excuse to eat pancakes and waffles with friends and as it was one week after “Talk Like a Pirate Day” and that theme had been worn out, eating lots of pancakes like a lumberjack seemed a better holiday than ever.

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

What beer are you drinking to celebrate Fat Bear Week

September 23, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Fat Bear Week, an annual celebration hosted by Alaska’s Katmai National Park and Preserve, transforms the primal act of brown bears bulking up for hibernation into a global online spectacle. Each October, fans worldwide vote in a bracket-style tournament to crown the chubbiest bear, using live webcams and before-and-after photos to marvel at their salmon-fueled transformations. Launched in 2014 as “Fat Bear Tuesday” by ranger Mike Fitz, it has grown into a week-long event, drawing over a million votes in 2024 and spotlighting conservation issues like salmon run preservation. More than a quirky contest, Fat Bear Week celebrates survival, showcasing bears like two-time champ Grazer, who embody nature’s awe-inspiring resilience. Katmai Conservancy and Fat Bear Week Website

Sipping in Solidarity: Beers to Pair with Fat Bear Week
Fat Bear Week isn’t just about voting for the chunkiest grizzlies at Alaska’s Katmai National Park—it’s a call to celebrate survival through epic bulking. And what better way to toast those salmon-stuffed bears than with a beer that matches their vibe: rich, hearty, and unapologetically full-bodied? Skip the light lagers; we’re talking brews that evoke the wild Alaskan frontier, the thrill of the Brooks River, or just the joy of getting comfortably plump. Here’s an updated lineup of recommendations to crack open while you fill out your bracket (voting runs September 23–30, 2025, at fatbearweek.org). I’ve added a spot-on Alaskan gem requested by a fan: Midnight Sun Brewing’s Kodiak Brown Ale, with its iconic Kodiak brown bear on the can—perfect thematic symmetry for our rotund heroes.

1) Russian Imperial Stout (The Bear’s Winter Bulk-Up Brew)
Why it fits: These dark, roasty heavyweights are like the bears themselves—massive, malty, and built for hibernation. With notes of chocolate, coffee, and a boozy warmth (often 8–12% ABV), they’re perfect for curling up with the live cams on Explore.org as Chunk or Grazer defends their title.
Top Pick: North Coast Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout. At around $4–6 per 12-oz bottle, it’s a Katmai classic: bold enough to honor the bears’ 1,000-pound gains, but smooth for marathon viewing sessions.
Pro Tip: Pair with a cheese board to channel that “Fat Bear Training Regimen” from X users—beer, cheese, nap, repeat.

2) Midnight Sun Brewing Co. Kodiak Brown Ale (The Thematic Kodiak King)
Why it fits: Named after Alaska’s legendary Kodiak brown bears (the very species bulking up at Katmai), this rugged American brown ale channels the event’s wild essence. With balanced caramel and roasted malts, subtle Northwest hops (Perle and Willamette), and fruity undertones of grape and apple, it’s smooth yet adventurous—like a bear flipping salmon without the splash. At 5.3% ABV, it’s sessionable for all-day voting, and the can’s fierce Kodiak bear artwork makes it an instant conversation starter (or bracket mascot).
Top Pick: Midnight Sun Kodiak Brown Ale ($2–4 per 12-oz can). A top seller since 1995 from Anchorage’s Midnight Sun Brewing Co., it’s widely available in Alaska and beyond—proof that Alaskans aren’t afraid of the dark (or a good malt-forward pour).
Pro Tip: Crack one open during the cub bracket reveal; its nutty, roasty finish pairs perfectly with trail mix, evoking the bears’ pre-hibernation feast.

3) Alaska Brewing Co. Alaskan Amber (The Local Legend)
Why it fits: Brewed in Juneau, this malty red ale nods to Alaska’s rugged spirit and the salmon runs fueling the bears. It’s balanced with caramel sweetness and a hoppy edge, evoking the crisp fall air at Brooks Falls without overwhelming your palate.
Top Pick: Alaskan Amber Ale ($2–3 per bottle). Affordable, widely available, and a subtle tie-in to the state’s brewing scene—imagine toasting to the ecosystem that keeps those sockeye swimming.
Pro Tip: If you’re feeling festive, hunt for seasonal releases; Alaska breweries often riff on wildlife themes during fall.

4) Belgian Tripel or Quad (The Bracket-Busting Indulgence)
Why it fits: Golden and complex, these abbey-style ales are effervescent celebrations of abundance, much like the bears flipping salmon mid-air. High ABV (7–11%) means one glass packs a punch, mirroring a dominant male bear’s tournament run.
Top Pick: Chimay Blue (Quadrupel) or Westmalle Tripel ($5–8 per bottle). The fruity esters and spicy yeast cut through any post-vote hype, and they’re great for sharing at a virtual watch party.
Pro Tip: Go for a “Fat Beer Week” twist—inspired by a podcast episode riffing on the event—by aging a quad for deeper flavors, just like bears layering on blubber.

5) Hazy IPA (The Underdog Cub’s Wild Card)
Why it fits: Juicy and forgiving, hazy IPAs burst with tropical notes, capturing the playful energy of Fat Bear Jr. contenders. They’re sessionable yet satisfying, ideal for late-night bracket predictions without the crash.
Top Pick: Tree House Julius ($6–7 per can). Cloudy like a foggy Alaskan morning, with massive mango and passionfruit vibes to keep the party going through the finals.
Pro Tip: For a thematic hack, seek out “Bear”-named IPAs like Russian River’s Pliny the Elder (a double IPA) or New Belgium’s Fat Tire Amber—easy crowd-pleasers that nod to the event’s body-positivity roots.

No matter your pick, drink responsibly—bears don’t hibernate with regrets, and neither should you. These beers turn passive scrolling into an immersive ritual, raising a glass to resilience and rotundity. What’s your go-to? Vote for your fave bear, sip accordingly, and may the chubbiest contender win.

The Plump Legacy: A History of Fat Bear Week
In the wild expanse of Alaska’s Katmai National Park and Preserve, where the Brooks River teems with sockeye salmon, an unlikely annual spectacle has captured hearts worldwide. Fat Bear Week isn’t just a quirky online tournament—it’s a celebration of survival, resilience, and the sheer audacity of nature’s engineering. Each fall, as brown bears bulk up for the brutal winter ahead, millions tune in to vote for the chubbiest contender. But how did this rotund rivalry begin? Let’s trace the fattening footsteps from its humble origins to its status as a global phenomenon. Website and

The Salmon-Fueled Spark: Origins in 2014
Fat Bear Week traces its roots to 2014, when it debuted as the more modest “Fat Bear Tuesday.” The mastermind behind this ursine extravaganza was Mike Fitz, a former interpretive ranger at Katmai National Park. Fitz noticed something remarkable: the park’s live webcams, streaming bears feasting on salmon at Brooks Falls, were drawing unprecedented online attention. These weren’t just casual viewers; people were hooked on the drama of grizzlies defending their fishing spots, flipping salmon mid-air, and—most importantly—packing on pounds.

Inspired by this digital devotion, Fitz proposed a simple contest. Park visitors would pore over before-and-after photos of select bears: scrawny spring arrivals versus autumnal behemoths swollen with success. Using a single-elimination bracket, participants voted for the bear that best embodied “fatness and success.” It was a nod to March Madness, but with claws, fur, and zero timeouts. The inaugural event, held in October 2014, was a hit, proving that even in the age of cat videos, a good bear belly could go viral.

From Tuesday to Tournament: Expansion and Evolution
By 2015, the event had outgrown its one-day format. Renamed Fat Bear Week, it stretched to a full seven days of bracket battles, hosted entirely online through partnerships with Explore.org and the National Park Service (NPS). This shift democratized participation—no park visit required. Suddenly, anyone with an internet connection could champion their favorite from afar, turning a remote Alaskan river into a virtual arena.

The tournament’s structure refined over time. Rangers select 12 adult bears (and later, cubs) based on criteria like clear before-and-after photos, frequent webcam appearances, and a mix of ages and genders. Head-to-head matchups pit fattest foes against each other, with public votes deciding who advances. The winner, crowned on the final day, becomes the Fat Bear Week champion—a title that signifies not just girth, but survival prowess. After all, these bears must amass enough blubber to endure five to seven months of hibernation, losing up to a third of their body weight without a single snack.
A milestone came in 2021 with the introduction of Fat Bear Junior, a cub-only bracket held a week earlier. This pint-sized parallel celebrates the next generation, highlighting family dynamics and the bears’ hierarchical society. It’s a reminder that in Katmai, fat isn’t frivolous—it’s essential.

Furry Fanfare: Memorable Moments and Viral Victors
Over the years, Fat Bear Week has spawned legends. In 2019, 435 Holly—a sassy sow known for her bold personality—claimed victory after a nail-biter against the massive 747, a bear whose belly reportedly measured three feet wide. 747 himself dominated in 2022, earning the nickname “Chunk” for his prodigious paunch.

But triumph has been bittersweet. The 2023 bracket reveal was postponed after a fatal clash between two bears, underscoring the raw wildness beneath the whimsy. And in 2024, Grazer, a resilient female and two-time champ (back-to-back with 2023), defended her title amid record-breaking viewership. These stories humanize the bears, transforming anonymous numbers (each bear is tagged with an ID like 480 or 151) into personalities: the underdog scrapper, the dominant dad, the clever fisher.
The event’s cultural ripple extends beyond brackets. It has inspired memes, merchandise, and even body-positivity campaigns. “Fat Bear Week is about celebrating success,” says NPS Superintendent Mark Sturm. “These bears remind us that in nature, bigger can be better—for survival.”

Why Bears Bulk Up: The Science of Salmon and Slumber
At its core, Fat Bear Week spotlights a biological imperative. Katmai’s Brooks River hosts one of the world’s largest sockeye salmon runs—millions of fish surging upstream to spawn. Bears exploit this bounty, consuming up to 30 salmon a day in peak season, prioritizing high-fat brains and eggs. A single bear might gain 30% of its body weight in summer, ballooning from 500 pounds to over 1,000.

This isn’t gluttony; it’s strategy. During hibernation, bears’ heart rates drop to eight beats per minute, and they recycle urea to build muscle and bone. A well-fed bear emerges in spring ready to breed and forage anew. By highlighting this, Fat Bear Week underscores threats like climate change and habitat loss, which could disrupt salmon runs and doom the bears’ buffet.

Global Impact: From Clicks to Conservation
What began as a ranger’s whim has ballooned into a movement. In 2024 alone, over a million votes poured in from 100 countries, with live cams on Explore.org racking up billions of views since 2014. Partnerships with the Katmai Conservancy and NPS channel enthusiasm into action: donations fund bear monitoring, trail maintenance, and advocacy for Bristol Bay’s intact ecosystem.
As 2025’s edition kicks off on September 23—mere hours from now—the stage is set for another showdown. Will Grazer make it a three-peat? Or will a newcomer steal the spotlight? One thing’s certain: Fat Bear Week endures because it taps into our primal awe of the wild. In a world of fleeting trends, these fattening felines remind us to root for the underbelly of nature’s grand design.
To join the fray, head to fatbearweek.org. Vote wisely—your click could crown the next legend of the Brooks. After all, in the kingdom of Katmai, the fattest bear isn’t just the winner; it’s the one most likely to roar into spring.

Thesaurus yesterday and today for the word, Beer

September 22, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

In the first edition of Peter Roget’s Thesaurus of English Words and Phrases (1852), words are organized by conceptual classes rather than alphabetically. “Beer” appears under Class V (Formation of Ideas), Division 2 (Space in general), Section 1 (Inorganic matter), Subsection 2 (Liquids), numbered 333. “Liquids,” specifically under the sub-subsection for intoxicating liquors.

The entry lists the following synonyms and related phrases for “beer” (presented as a noun in the list of specific examples of alcoholic beverages):
Ale, Porter, Stout, Heavy wet, Swipes, Small beer, Table-beer, Bitter beer, Munich beer, and Lager beer.

Below is a list of the top 50 synonyms for “beer” in modern English usage as of September 16, 2025. These synonyms include specific beer styles, colloquial and slang terms, and general descriptors commonly found in thesauruses, linguistic resources, and contemporary contexts. The list is comprehensive, covering both formal and informal terms used in English-speaking regions, presented in no particular order:

Ale
Lager
Brew
Stout
Porter
Draft
Pilsner
Suds
Malt
Brewski
Hops
Amber
IPA (India Pale Ale)
Bock
Wheat
Craft
Pale
Brown
Blonde
Saison
Cold one
Pint
Stein
Bitter
Lager-beer
Gose
Hefeweizen
Kölsch
Schwarzbier
Barleywine
Shandy
Radler
Cream ale
Steam beer
Dunkel
Weissbier
Tripel
Quad
Lambic
Alehouse
Brewage
Swill
Sip
Tipple
Bevvie
Froth
Juice (slang, e.g., hoppy juice)
Nectar (informal, poetic)
Pintje (regional slang, e.g., Dutch-influenced)
Stingo (archaic, strong beer)

Notes:

The list includes specific beer styles (e.g., IPA, hefeweizen), which are often used as synonyms in contexts where the type of beer is emphasized.
Slang terms like “brewski,” “cold one,” and “bevvie” are common in casual conversation, especially in North American and British English.
Some terms, like “stingo” or “nectar,” are less common but appear in historical or poetic contexts.
Regional variations exist; for example, “pint” often refers to a serving of beer in the UK, while “bevvie” is more common in Australia or the UK.

More fun facts about beer: Click Here

Cliff Thompson – The World’s Tallest Beer Salesman at 8′ 7″

September 17, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

In the annals of extraordinary individuals, few stand as tall—literally—as Cliff Thompson. Towering at an incredible 8 feet 7 inches, this North Dakota native wasn’t just one of the tallest men in history; he was a multifaceted personality who blended law, entertainment, and salesmanship into a larger-than-life career. Best known as the “World’s Tallest Beer Salesman,” Cliff turned his remarkable stature into a marketing marvel, charming crowds and boosting brews in the heart of beer country. Let’s raise a glass to his story—a tale of height, hustle, and heart.

A Giant from the Prairie: Early Life and Rise to Fame
Born Clifford Marshall Thompson on October 18, 1904, in Rugby, North Dakota, Cliff’s extraordinary growth began early. Afflicted with gigantism, a condition caused by excessive growth hormone, he shot up to heights that made everyday life an adventure. By adulthood, he measured 8’7″, making him the tallest man in the world from 1940 to 1955, after the passing of Robert Wadlow. Recent analyses suggest his height might have been slightly less, around 8’3″ to 8’6″, but his billed stature of 8’7″ cemented his place in record books and public imagination.

Cliff’s early years were marked by challenges, from custom clothing to navigating a world built for average heights. Yet, he embraced his uniqueness, pursuing education and turning heads wherever he went. He attended the University of Wisconsin and later law school, becoming a practicing attorney—earning the title “World’s Tallest Lawyer.” But law wasn’t his only path; Cliff’s charisma led him to Hollywood, where he appeared in films and circus sideshows, captivating audiences with his gentle giant persona.

From Courtroom to Kegs: The Beer Salesman Era
What truly set Cliff apart in popular culture was his venture into sales, particularly in the beer industry. Based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin—America’s beer capital—Cliff became a promotional sensation for local breweries including Blatz Brewing. Billed as the “World’s Tallest Salesman,” he leveraged his height to draw crowds at events, trade shows, and advertisements. Imagine a man who could peer over booths, hand out samples from on high, and pose for photos that made everyone else look pint-sized.

His role wasn’t just gimmicky; Cliff’s genuine enthusiasm for people and products made him effective. He worked for companies like the Wisconsin Brewing Company, where his presence boosted sales and brand visibility. At a time when marketing relied on spectacle, Cliff was a walking billboard, shaking hands with newspapermen and celebrities alike. His marriage to Mary Mars in 1939 added a personal touch to his public life, as the couple navigated the spotlight together.

Legacy and Fun Facts: A Towering Impact
Cliff Thompson’s influence extended beyond beer and law. He practiced in Iola, Wisconsin, where a historical marker now commemorates his time there. The Prairie Village Museum in Rugby honors him with exhibits, showcasing his life alongside other quirky artifacts like Queen Victoria’s dress. Even in Ames, Iowa, his visits left lasting impressions, as seen in historical photos.
Here are some fun facts about this remarkable man:

Record Holder: Cliff was once considered the tallest living man, surpassing the average male height of his era by over three feet.
Multitalented Giant: Beyond sales and law, he acted in movies and performed in circuses, proving height was no barrier to versatility.
Everyday Epics: Cliff’s home in Milwaukee was customized for his size, and he drove specially modified vehicles to accommodate his frame.
Enduring Memory: Though he passed away on February 15, 1955, at age 50, his story lives on through museums, markers, and online tributes.

Cheers to a Legendary Life
Cliff Thompson wasn’t just tall; he was a symbol of resilience and reinvention. From North Dakota prairies to Milwaukee’s brewing scene, he turned potential obstacles into opportunities, leaving a legacy that’s as inspiring as it is impressive. Whether as a lawyer, actor, or the world’s tallest beer salesman, Cliff proved that true stature comes from within. Next time you enjoy a cold one, think of the giant who helped make beer a little more fun—for everyone looking up.

For Fun Stuff:

George Washington’s Beer Recipe – Oldest known writing from George Washington
George Washington’s Distillery – Largest Distillery in the U.S. in 1799.
The History of Beer in the United States

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

The First Photo of People Drinking Beer Features Scottish Ale in 1844

September 16, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Picture this: it’s 1844 in Scotland, and the first photo of folks drinking beer is snapped, just 18 years after the world’s first photograph. Scottish shutterbugs Robert Adamson and David Octavius Hill are behind the lens, capturing a chill moment.

Hill wasn’t just a tech whiz with his calotype camera—he had a knack for charm, cracking jokes, and reading the room, which made his photos pop. In this shot, he’s on the right, likely sharing a laugh and a brew with his pals James Ballantine and Dr. George Bell. Bell, the guy in the middle, helped shake up Scotland’s poor relief system with the 1845 Poor Law and wrote Day and Night in the Wynds of Edinburgh. Ballantine? He was a writer and stained-glass artist, plus his dad was an Edinburgh brewer—talk about beer in the blood!

On the table, you’ve got a classic beer bottle and three fancy 19th-century “ale flutes” for sipping. Word on the street was that Edinburgh’s favorite brew, Younger’s ale, was so strong it practically stuck your lips together. No wonder most folks could barely finish a single bottle!

Photography before 1850
Before 1850, photography was still a fragile, experimental miracle that only a handful of wealthy amateurs and scientists could actually practice. The earliest permanent images—Nicéphore Niépce’s 1826 heliograph of a rooftop in France—required an eight-hour exposure on a pewter plate coated with bitumen, while Louis Daguerre’s polished silver-plated daguerreotypes (publicly announced in 1839) cut exposure times to minutes but produced one-of-a-kind positives that couldn’t be duplicated and were insanely delicate. Across the Channel, William Henry Fox Talbot’s calotype process (also introduced in 1839) used paper negatives to allow multiple prints, yet the images were softer and the process was maddeningly slow and chemically unstable. Every photograph before 1850 was essentially handmade: exposures ranged from several minutes to half an hour, sitters had to stay motionless with head clamps, cameras were the size of small suitcases, and toxic chemicals like mercury vapor or silver iodide fumes made darkroom work genuinely dangerous. Fewer than a few thousand photographs existed worldwide, most were unique objects rather than reproducible images, and the idea of photography as something ordinary people could own—or that it could document daily life—was still pure science fiction. In short, pre-1850 photography was less an art form or industry and more an expensive, hazardous alchemy practiced by a tiny elite on the very edge of possibility.

For Fun Beer Facts, Trivia and more: Click Here