Beer Info

Beer News, Beer Releases and New Breweries

Spencer Mapes

Athletic Brewing Company’s Two For The Trails Grant Program Wins Double Gold At Halo Awards

by

MILFORD, Conn., and SAN DIEGO, CA – Athletic Brewing Company, America’s largest dedicated non-alcoholic brewer, today announced that its Two For The Trails environmental grant program received two 2025 Gold Halo Awards for Best Cause Product Initiative and Best Sustainability or Conservation Initiative.

Now in its 23rd year, The Halo Awards, presented by Engage for Good, are the first and most prestigious honor for excellence in corporate social impact. They recognize the most innovative and effective partnerships between companies and nonprofits, celebrating organizations that are going beyond good intentions to deliver measurable change for both business and society.

Athletic Brewing was recognized for its commitment to protecting and restoring outdoor spaces worldwide through its Two For The Trails environmental grant program, which contributed up to $2 million to more than 170 projects in 2024.

“We started Athletic with the belief that business can be a powerful force for good,” said Bill Shufelt, Co-Founder and CEO of Athletic Brewing. “Two For The Trails is our way of giving back, and creating a positive ripple effect that’s felt for generations to come. This recognition is a huge honor and a testament to the amazing work of our nonprofit grant recipients.”

Established as a founding principle of the Athletic Brewing business plan, and named in honor of Shufelt’s family ritual of toasting post-trail adventures with two brews, the Two For The Trails program has grown into the largest annual environmental grant program in the craft brewing industry. To date, the program has contributed more than $6.3 million to trails and outdoor spaces.

“What makes Two For The Trails truly special is the diversity and integrity of the projects we support,” said Cara Wilson, Impact Manager at Athletic Brewing. “From regenerative land management and invasive species removal to improving ADA accessibility on trails, we’re committed to funding conservation work that’s thoughtful, impactful, and inclusive. With projects in 46 states and three countries so far, we’re aiming to expand our reach to all 50 states by the end of 2025 — helping more people connect with and care for the outdoors.”

Athletic Brewing’s commitment to sustainability and philanthropy extends beyond Two For The Trails. The company maintains exceptional levels of water recapture and efficiency at its custom breweries in Connecticut and California, donates up to $100,000 annually to meaningful causes through its IMPACT Brew Series, and is proudly a Certified B Corporation™.

Earlier this year, Athletic Brewing released a short film celebrating the work of three recent Two For The Trails grant recipients to raise awareness about the unique environmental concerns that each nonprofit encounters. The film is available to view on YouTube.

Nonprofit organizations interested in applying for the next round of Two For The Trails funding can sign up on the Athletic Brewing Company website. Applications open summer 2025.

The 2025 Halo Awards were presented live on April 24 at the Engage for Good Conference in Palm Springs, CA, where Athletic Brewing accepted the awards in person.

About Athletic Brewing Company

Athletic Brewing Company is America’s largest dedicated non-alcoholic brewer. Athletic is revolutionizing how modern adults drink by crafting game-changing NA brews that can be consumed anytime and anywhere. Launched commercially in 2018, Athletic is the number one non-alcoholic beer brand in America1 and a top 20 U.S. brewing company2. Its award-winning brews are available nationwide at over 75,000 retail locations. Athletic operates custom breweries in Connecticut and California and donates up to $2 million annually to protecting and restoring outdoor spaces across the globe via its Two For The Trails program. Athletic is proudly a Certified B Corporation™.

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

Lift Bridge Brewing Company Names Former Leinenkugel Master Brewer John Hensley as Director of Operations

by

Stillwater, MN — Lift Bridge Brewing Company, one of Minnesota’s leading craft breweries, is proud to announce the appointment of John Hensley as its new Director of Operations. Hensley brings over a decade of experience in large-scale brewing and operations, most recently serving as Master Brewer at Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company, part of Molson Coors.

As Lift Bridge continues to grow its footprint across Minnesota and the Midwest, Hensley will join the company’s leadership team to oversee brewery operations, quality assurance, packaging, and the expansion of Lift Bridge’s diverse portfolio of craft beers and beyond beer beverages.

“We are thrilled to have John join our team as we continue navigating the evolving craft beverage industry with our award-winning beers and innovative product lines,” said Igor Barabash, CEO of Lift Bridge Brewing Co. “John’s industry expertise strengthens our ability to scale, support contract brewing partners, and continue delivering exceptional quality across every sip.”

A Proven Leader in Brewing Innovation
At Leinenkugel’s, Hensley oversaw brewing and quality control while leading capital improvement projects that supported growth for one of the country’s most iconic breweries. His deep technical knowledge and passion for innovation align perfectly with Lift Bridge’s mission to craft high-quality, flavor-forward beverages.

Lift Bridge Brewing: Growth, Innovation, and Commitment to Quality
Lift Bridge’s hiring of Hensley comes amid a wave of innovation from the brewery. Recent product launches include:

Gluten-Removed Flavored Malt Beverages (crafted using a proprietary nano-filtration process)
Year-Round and Seasonal Craft Beers
Premium Non-Alcoholic Mocktails
Hemp-Based Beverages and Gummies
Sodas and Spirit-Based Cocktails

Now in its 17th year, Lift Bridge Brewing is preparing for its next phase of growth with a planned production facility expansion that will allow for full insourcing and increased co-packing capabilities.

“Our mission has always been to create the highest-quality beverages possible—and that takes the highest-quality people,” said Brad Glynn, Co-Founder and Creative Director. “With John on board, we’re ready to push boundaries while staying true to our roots.”

About Lift Bridge Brewing Company
Lift Bridge Brewing Company, Stillwater’s first craft brewery since Prohibition, continues to elevate life’s moments with its award-winning craft beers, hard seltzers, and sodas. Founded in 2008, Lift Bridge is renowned for flagship brews like Farm Girl Saison and Hop Dish IPA, crafted with uncompromising natural ingredients to reflect the rich history and pride of Stillwater. With taprooms in Stillwater, MN, and New Richmond, WI, the brewery offers innovative beverages, including its popular THC sparkling beverages, and hosts vibrant community events. Discover more at liftbridgebrewery.com

Yards Brewing Company Hosts 2025 Real Ale Invitational

by

PHILADELPHIA, PA – April 2025 — Yards Brewing Company is proud to bring back the Yards Real Ale Invitational, the region’s only cask-conditioned beer festival, on Sunday, April 27, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM at their brewery in Philadelphia.

This one-of-a-kind event features over 40 unique real ales from top breweries across Philadelphia, the Mid-Atlantic, and beyond. Guests will enjoy exclusive small-batch beers, live music, local bites, and a behind-the-scenes experience at Yards’ state-of-the-art brewing facility.

“Our philosophy has always been to honor traditional styles and bring inspiring, quality beer to our community,” says Tom Kehoe, founder of Yards Brewing Company. “This festival is a celebration of real ale — the beer that started it all for us.”

🍺 What Is Real Ale?

Unlike conventional beer, real ale is unfiltered, unpasteurized, and naturally carbonated inside a cask. It’s served fresh and conditioned without artificial CO₂ — a nod to centuries-old English brewing methods. Yards has been a champion of real ale since day one, with its flagship Extra Special Ale (ESA) always available on cask in the taproom.

🎉 Event Highlights

  • 40+ cask-conditioned beers from leading breweries

  • Special releases like terpene-infused IPAs, barrel-aged quads, English-style porters, and more

  • Live music from Burnin’ Bridges, a folk-rock acoustic duo

  • Complimentary brewery tours during the event

  • Tasty snacks including soft pretzels from Philly Pretzel Factory and Marchiano Bakery’s famous tomato pie

  • All-inclusive ticket includes beer samples, food, a commemorative glass, and music

🍻 Participating Breweries

Enjoy rare and exclusive beers from:

  • Philadelphia legends like Dock Street Brewery and Iron Hill Brewery

  • Area favorites like Forest & Main Brewing and Levante Brewing

  • Regional standouts including Cape May Brewing (NJ), Tonewood Brewing (NJ), Big Oyster Brewery (DE), and Dewey Beer Company (DE)
    …and many more to be announced!

📍 Event Details

📆 Date: Sunday, April 27, 2025
🕛 Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
📍 Location: Yards Brewing Company, 500 Spring Garden Street, Philadelphia, PA
🎟️ Tickets: Available online now

  • General Admission includes beer samples, food, glassware & entertainment

  • Designated Driver Tickets: $20

“Bringing together breweries from across the region isn’t just about celebrating beer,” adds Kehoe. “It’s about honoring shared history, creativity, and the community we’ve built over decades. Our motto, Brew Unto Others, really comes to life at this event.”

🔗 Learn More & Buy Tickets

To purchase tickets or explore the full list of breweries and beers, visit:
👉 yardsbrewing.com

About Yards Brewing Company

Yards Brewing Company, a cornerstone of Philadelphia’s craft beer scene, was founded in 1994 by friends Tom Kehoe and Jon Bovit, who began brewing as homebrewers in the late 1980s. Their passion for beer led to the establishment of a small, garage-sized brewery in Philadelphia’s Manayunk neighborhood, where they produced their first batches, including the now-iconic Extra Special Ale (ESA). Operating out of a 3.5-barrel brewhouse, they initially brewed one six-keg batch at a time, supplying local bars like Dawson Street Pub and Khyber Pass with hand-pumped ales. By April 1995, Yards ESA debuted at the Philadelphia Craft Beer Festival, marking their entry into the broader craft beer community.

The brewery grew steadily, and in 2008, Yards moved to its current 70,000-square-foot facility at 500 Spring Garden Street in Northern Liberties, a 100% wind-powered brewery that solidified its status as Philadelphia’s largest brewery by 2015.

Yards is renowned for its English-inspired ales, including Philadelphia Pale Ale, Brawler, and the Ales of the Revolution series, which draws from 18th-century recipes attributed to founding fathers like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin. Launched in 1999 in collaboration with City Tavern, this series includes General Washington’s Tavern Porter, Thomas Jefferson’s Tavern Ale, and Poor Richard’s Tavern Spruce, released for Franklin’s 300th birthday in 2006. The brewery’s commitment to quality and community is reflected in its motto, “Brew Unto Others,” emphasizing support for local organizations and sustainability.

Prost Brewing Co. to Open German-Style Biergarten in Wheat Ridge, Colorado in 2026

by

Prost Brewing WHEAT RIDGE, Colo. — April 2025 — Prost Brewing Co., a Colorado-based leader in brewing authentic German-style biers, is proud to announce its newest expansion: a fifth biergarten opening in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, in early 2026.

The 6,800-square-foot biergarten will be part of the highly anticipated Clear Creek Crossing development, offering a scenic location next to Coors’ pond with sweeping mountain views. This new location continues Prost’s mission of creating welcoming, community-driven spaces where guests can enjoy award-winning beer and classic German hospitality.

“This expansion is part of our bigger vision for growth — building biergartens that bring people together through tradition and quality,” said David Deline, President of Prost Brewing Co. “We’ve spent years refining our brand and focusing on the authentic German experience. Whether you’re a local, a traveler, or just beer-curious, our biergartens are places where you can feel at home and drink like a German.”

A Unique Experience at the New Wheat Ridge Biergarten
Prost’s Wheat Ridge biergarten will feature an open-concept design with a fully enclosed patio, spacious dining areas, and private event space. A highlight of the location will be its 1-barrel research and development brewhouse, allowing guests to watch small-batch brewing in action.

The bar will showcase 40 taps, pouring Prost’s full lineup of German-style biers along with guest ciders, craft cocktails, wine, and non-alcoholic options. Visitors can expect Prost’s signature German-inspired food menu, featuring house-made items and partnerships with local favorites like Charcutnuvo sausages and XLVII’s Bakery.

Easy to Access, Built for Community
Conveniently located just off I-70 and along the Clear Creek bike path, the Wheat Ridge biergarten is designed to be a destination for both locals and out-of-town visitors. The biergarten will back up to a public park complete with an amphitheater, yard games, fire pits, and plenty of space to relax with a bier in hand.

This addition builds on Prost’s steady growth across Colorado, following successful biergartens in Denver, Fort Collins, Highlands Ranch, and Northglenn — the latter also home to Prost’s new 60,000-square-foot brewery and production facility.

Learn More
For updates on the Wheat Ridge biergarten opening or to explore Prost’s award-winning biers, visit prostbrewing.com.

The Story of Prost Brewing Company: Colorado’s Celebration of German Beer Craftsmanship

Founded in 2012 in Denver, Colorado, Prost Brewing Company has become a leading name in authentic German-style craft beer in the United States. From the beginning, Prost has focused on brewing traditional German lagers and ales using time-honored techniques and the highest quality ingredients—most of which are sourced directly from Germany.

The heart of Prost’s brewing operations began with a historic touch: they imported a 1963 copper brewhouse from the former Brauerei Hümmer, a brewery in Germany that operated for over 350 years. This rare, old-world system was painstakingly transported and reassembled in Denver, setting Prost apart with its commitment to Old-World authenticity from day one.

Prost follows the Reinheitsgebot—the German Beer Purity Law of 1516—which means their beers are brewed with just four ingredients: water, malt, hops, and yeast. This dedication to purity and quality has earned Prost multiple awards at prestigious competitions, including gold medals at the Great American Beer Festival for their Keller Pils, Weissbier, and Luna Lager.

As demand for their traditional German-style beers grew, so did Prost. The brewery expanded with biergartens in Fort Collins and Highlands Ranch, and in 2024, Prost opened a new state-of-the-art brewing facility and biergarten in Northglenn, Colorado. This flagship location boasts 60,000 square feet of brewing space, complete with energy-efficient equipment and sustainability-focused features like CO₂ recapture systems.

In recent years, Prost has introduced a range of new products and transitioned many of their core beers to cans, making their award-winning German-style biers more accessible across the United States. Their seasonal offerings now include Vienna Lager, Märzen, Radler, Helles, and an India Pale Lager (IPL), all brewed with the same care and traditional methods that define the Prost name.

Today, Prost Brewing Company continues to grow its footprint while remaining true to its roots—celebrating German beer culture, building community, and crafting clean, flavorful lagers that stand the test of time.

Drink like a German. Prost!

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

Alaskan Distilling Co. Named 2025 U.S. Open Cocktail Champion, Brings Home Three Medals

by

Alaskan Distilling Co. Named 2025 U.S. Open Cocktail Champion Juneau, Alaska — Alaskan Distilling Co., the spirits division of Alaskan Brewing Co., has taken top honors at the 2025 U.S. Open Whiskey & Spirits Championship, earning the title of U.S. Open Cocktail Champion and claiming three medals in the prestigious competition.

In addition to the Championship title, judges awarded two Gold medals and one Silver to Alaskan Distilling’s innovative line of canned cocktails:

GOLD – Rainforest Gin & Tonic Category: Classic Canned Cocktail
GOLD – CAMP FUEL: Citrus Breeze Category: Citrus Canned Cocktail
SILVER – Solstice Vodka Lemonade Category: Citrus Canned Cocktail

Alaskan Distilling’s standout performance earned the Juneau, Alaska-based company the top overall title in the cocktail category, recognized for creativity, craftsmanship, and flavor in a crowded field of outstanding entries from across the country.

“Being named the U.S. Open Cocktail Champion is a huge honor,” said Maxwell Rule, CEO of Alaskan Brewing Co. “To be recognized alongside so many other talented producers is incredibly meaningful, and it’s a testament to the creativity, grit, and hard work of our Alaskan Distilling team. From concept to can, this crew pours their passion into every step, and we’re proud to see that effort celebrated on a national stage.”

The U.S. Open Whiskey & Spirits Championship is one of the largest and most respected spirits competitions in North America, evaluating thousands of entries across a wide range of categories. A panel of judges conducts blind tastings to determine winners based on aroma, taste, balance, and overall impression.

In the 2024 U.S. Open Whiskey & Spirits Championship, Alaskan Distilling Co.’s Musk Ox Mule took home a Silver award, while the Rainforest Gin & Tonic won Bronze.

This year’s results further solidify Alaskan Distilling Co.’s place as a rising leader in the world of craft spirits and ready-to-drink cocktails. Rainforest Gin & Tonic, Solstice Vodka Lemonade, Musk Ox Mule, CAMP FUEL Citrus Breeze, and CAMP FUEL Legendary are all currently available in Alaska.

About Alaskan Distilling Co.
Alaska’s distilling scene is a vibrant blend of innovation and tradition, deeply rooted in the state’s rugged landscape and rich natural resources. Distilleries across the state harness local ingredients—such as glacier-fed waters, hand-harvested spruce tips, and Alaska-grown grains—to craft unique spirits that embody the essence of the Last Frontier. For instance, Alaskan Distilling Co., a sister brand to Alaskan Brewing Co., has gained acclaim for its award-winning canned cocktails like the Solstice Vodka Lemonade and Rainforest Gin & Tonic, which highlight flavors native to Alaska.

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

Arizona Wilderness Announces the Grand Opening of Their Miracle Mile Location

by

Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. Announces the Grand Opening PHOENIX, AZ – Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. is proud to announce the grand opening of its third location, Arizona Wilderness Miracle Mile, on April 24, 2025. The new brewpub is located at 1418 E McDowell Road in the historic Miracle Mile neighborhood of Phoenix, bringing craft beer, scratch-made food, and a passion for local sustainability to one of the city’s most storied districts.

Founded in 2013, Arizona Wilderness Brewing is known for its commitment to community, conservation, and creativity. The Miracle Mile location continues that mission by revitalizing a once-thriving neighborhood with local flavor and authentic atmosphere.

Breathing New Life into Miracle Mile
Miracle Mile was Phoenix’s first major shopping district outside of downtown, dating back to the 1940s. Once a vibrant area for small businesses, it fell into disrepair over the decades. Recent revitalization efforts aim to restore the area’s walkability and community spirit—an effort Arizona Wilderness Brewing is proud to join.

“We fell in love with this building the moment we saw it,” said co-founder Jonathan Buford. “The character, the architecture, the history—it all fits perfectly with our mission to create meaningful spaces that reflect Arizona’s culture and soul.”

A Taste of Arizona: Local Food and Craft Beer
The Miracle Mile brewpub will offer a brand-new scratch kitchen menu using locally sourced ingredients. Highlights include:

Smash Slider Trio
Steak Wedge Bowl
Big McDowell Burger

The Miracle Steak Sandwich, made with grass-fed beef from Arizona Grass Raised Beef and artisan bread from Barrio Bread, a James Beard Award-winning bakery.

Executive Chef David Cruz added, “This is our chance to showcase the incredible ingredients Arizona has to offer while telling a story of community and collaboration through food.”

To celebrate the new location, Arizona Wilderness is also releasing a new signature beer: Miracle Mild. This English-style Mild Ale is brewed with 100% Sinagua Malt—barley grown and malted in Arizona’s Verde Valley using water-saving techniques.

“Each of our locations has a beer that reflects its character,” said Brad Miles, Head of Production. “Miracle Mild is a nod to classic community pub traditions, with a uniquely Arizona twist.”

Join the Grand Opening Celebration
Arizona Wilderness Miracle Mile officially opens to the public on Thursday, April 24, 2025. Guests are invited to explore the space, enjoy local food and beer, and experience the rebirth of one of Phoenix’s most iconic neighborhoods.

For updates and more information, visit azwbeer.com or follow @azwilderness on social media.

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

Live Oak Brewing Company Partners with Capital Reyes Distributing

by

Live Oak Brewing Company Partners with Capital Reyes DistributingAustin, Texas – Live Oak Brewing Company, a beloved Austin craft brewery founded in 1997, has announced a strategic partnership with Capital Reyes Distributing, LLC, a top regional distributor and part of the Reyes Beverage Group. This collaboration will broaden the availability of Live Oak’s acclaimed European-style beers, including its award-winning Hefeweizen and crisp Pilz, across Austin and nearby communities.

For nearly three decades, Live Oak has self-distributed its beers, earning a loyal Central Texas following through its dedication to traditional brewing methods and premium ingredients. The partnership with Capital Reyes Distributing enables Live Oak to expand efficiently, bringing its signature and seasonal brews to more bars, restaurants, and stores while upholding its commitment to quality and authenticity.

“Live Oak is built on community, quality, and tradition,” said Chip McElroy, the brewery’s founder. “Teaming up with Capital Reyes allows us to grow thoughtfully, sharing our beers with more people while staying true to our roots. We’re thrilled to work with a distributor that champions the craft beer movement.”

With Capital Reyes’ extensive distribution network, beer enthusiasts can expect easier access to Live Oak’s diverse offerings at local retailers and establishments. This partnership marks a pivotal step for Live Oak, blending its deep Austin heritage with enhanced market reach to connect with a wider audience.

About Live Oak Brewing
Live Oak Brewing Company, founded in 1997 in Austin, Texas, is a renowned craft brewery celebrated for its European-inspired beers crafted with traditional brewing techniques. Known for its commitment to quality, community, and authenticity, Live Oak has built a loyal Central Texas following with signature offerings like its award-winning Hefeweizen and crisp Pilz. After nearly three decades of self-distribution, the brewery has expanded its reach through a strategic partnership with Capital Reyes Distributing, bringing its diverse, high-quality beers to more bars, restaurants, and retailers while staying true to its Austin roots. For more information about Live Oak Brewing Company and its craft beers, visit : https://www.liveoakbrewing.com/

 

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

Brewers Association Announces 2025 Industry Award Winners

by

BOULDER, CO — The Brewers Association (BA), the not-for-profit trade organization representing small and independent American craft brewers, is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Industry Awards. Since 1987, these prestigious honors have been bestowed upon individuals and groups that have made a significant impact on the craft beer community. This year’s award winners will be celebrated for their dedication and contributions during a special ceremony on April 30, 2025, at the Craft Brewers Conference® (CBC)Opens in new window in Indianapolis.

“Congratulations to this year’s Industry Award winners. Their dedication and advocacy have strengthened the craft brewing community and paved the way for its continued success,” said Bart Watson, president and CEO of the Brewers Association. “We celebrate their achievements and thank them for their invaluable contributions.”

2025 Industry Award Recipients

Russell Schehrer Award for Innovation in Craft Brewing
Ron Jeffries (in memoriam), Founder, Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales (Dexter, Mich.)

This award is presented in honor of Wynkoop Brewing Company’s founding partner, Russell Schehrer, to an individual or company for their innovative contributions to the brewing industry.

Ron Jeffries (1967-2024), this year’s recipient of the Innovation in Craft Brewing award, embodied the spirit of the Russell Schehrer Award for Innovation in Craft Brewing. His passion, dedication to excellence, and commitment to sharing knowledge left a lasting impact on the brewing community.

Ron’s journey began in the 1980s, sparked by his curiosity for craft beer, which led him to study brewing science and work in the industry. In 2004, he and his wife, Laurie, founded Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales, a brewery known for its fun, quirky spirit and pioneering wild, oak-aged sour beers. That same year, Jolly Pumpkin won a gold medal at the Great American Beer Festival®.

As an early supporter of the Michigan Brewers Guild and a longtime board member, Ron played a key role in shaping the craft beer scene throughout the world and was a mentor to many. His legacy lives on through his commitment to artisan brewing and innovation in craft beer.

Brewers Association Recognition Award
The NC Beer Community

This award is presented to an individual, company, or group whose inspiration, enthusiasm, and support have contributed to the craft brewing movement.

Hurricane Helene’s devastation on September 27, 2024, brought over 20 inches of rain, extreme flooding, and landslides that destroyed roads, bridges, and entire communities. More than 7,000 roads and 650 bridges were damaged, and 106 lives were lost. In Asheville, Buncombe County’s water system failed, leaving residents without potable water for 53 days. With power and cell service down, families were disconnected.

Breweries statewide stepped up—taprooms became supply hubs, trucks delivered emergency aid, and impacted breweries served as relief centers. Highland Brewing’s Leah Ashburn captured the moment: “We can’t brew without water, so each day we adapt to meet new needs.”

The NC Craft Brewers Guild launched Pouring for Neighbors, raising $250,000 through national brewery support. Its new nonprofit, the NC Craft Brewers Foundation, has distributed $152,000 in grants, ensuring breweries can rebuild and continue serving their communities.

The NC Beer Community’s collaborative spirit remains unwavering, proving that in times of crisis, the beer community rises stronger—together.

F.X. Matt Defense of the Industry Award
Ted Zeller, Norris-McLaughlin, and the Brewers of Pennsylvania

This award, named for the late F.X. Matt of F.X. Matt Brewing Co., is presented to an individual or company for their contributions and efforts in championing the small brewing industry.

Ted Zeller, this year’s F.X. Matt Defense of the Industry Award winner, entered beer law in 2006, leading a landmark case against InBev. His work caught Dick Yuengling’s attention, sparking ongoing collaboration on legislative and distribution efforts with D.G. Yuengling & Son.

In 2009, Ted helped Yuengling fight a wholesaler bill threatening franchise laws. He connected with craft industry leaders, including Bill Covaleski of Victory Brewing Company and Chris Trogner of Tröegs Independent Brewing, playing a key role in forming the Brewers of Pennsylvania, where he currently serves as General Counsel.

Among his countless contributions to craft beer advocacy, these stand out as especially significant:

  • Opposing franchise law expansion before the Pennsylvania Senate.
  • Authoring laws streamlining brand registration, packaging, and direct sales.
  • Negotiating a reduced 1.5% beer sales tax.
  • Defending craft brewers in antitrust and licensing cases.
  • Advocating for breweries as essential businesses during COVID-19.

“Ted has been the agent of change that turned Pennsylvania into one of the best states for breweries,” said Tom Kehoe, Yards Brewing.

Brewers Association Mentor of the Year Award
Shawn Mullen, Stone Brewing Company

Shawn Mullen, this year’s Mentor of the Year, joined the Brewers Association’s inaugural mentorship cohort in 2021. His dedication to fostering industry talent has helped individuals, companies, and brands grow.

Shawn began his career buying beer for a Massachusetts liquor store group, building a craft-focused program centered on quality and education. In 2014, Shawn relocated to Seattle to expand Wallace Brewing’s sales territories, later joining The Odom Corporation as National Account Manager to support craft brands in building chain retail business. In 2019, Shawn joined Stone Brewing, where he currently serves as the Director of National Accounts, Off Premise for the East Coast. He earned his Advanced Cicerone certification in 2022 and joined the Brewers Association’s Market Development Committee in 2024.

“Shawn has been the professor of craft beer I always hoped for,” said mentee Chris Housman. “He builds bridges and shows the path forward, empowering others to succeed.”

Award recipients were nominated by their peers and determined by votes from staff and committees comprised of members of the Brewers Association Board of Directors, the craft brewing community, and past award winners.

In addition to the individual industry awards, the Brewers Association conducts two prestigious national and international professional brewing competitions: the Great American Beer Festival Competition and the World Beer CupOpens in new window®.

About the Brewers Association
The Brewers Association (BA) is the not-for-profit trade association dedicated to small and independentOpens in new window American brewers, their beers, and the community of brewing enthusiasts. The BA represents 5,600-plus U.S. breweries. The BA’s independent craft brewer seal is a widely adopted symbol that differentiates beers by small and independent craft brewers. The Brewers Association organizes events, including the World Beer Cup®, Great American Beer FestivalOpens in new window®, Craft Brewers ConferenceOpens in new window® & BrewExpo America®, National Homebrew CompetitionOpens in new window, and American Craft Beer WeekOpens in new window®. The BA publishes The New BrewerOpens in new window® and Zymurgy® magazines, and Brewers Publications® is the leading publisher of brewing literature in the U.S. Beer lovers are invited to learn more about the dynamic world of craft beer at CraftBeer.comOpens in new window® and about homebrewing via the American Homebrewers AssociationOpens in new window®. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

The Brewers Association is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital/familial status. The BA complies with provisions of Executive Order 13672 and the rules, regulations, and relevant orders of the Secretary of Labor.

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

Reuben’s Brews to Open New Taproom in Downtown Seattle

by

Reuben's Brews to Open New Taproom SEATTLE, Washington – Reuben’s Brews, a family-owned and award-winning craft brewery founded in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood, is thrilled to announce the upcoming opening of its newest taproom in downtown Seattle. Set to open in early summer 2025, the new location at 1201 First Avenue brings Reuben’s signature hospitality, community-first mission, and expertly crafted beers to the heart of the city.

Just steps from top attractions like Pike Place Market, the Seattle Art Museum, and the city’s waterfront, the Reuben’s Brews Downtown Taproom will offer an inviting space for both locals and tourists. The expansive venue will feature 28 taps pouring a rotating selection of beer, cider, hard seltzer, and non-alcoholic options, along with a full menu of American pub fare designed to pair perfectly with the brewery’s lineup.

Guests can enjoy indoor and outdoor seating, flat-screen TVs broadcasting Mariners, Seahawks, and Sounders games, and a convenient to-go beer station for freshly packaged brews. Whether you’re grabbing a pint before a stadium event or meeting up with friends downtown, Reuben’s new taproom aims to be a go-to gathering spot.

“Beer builds community, and this new space helps us reach even more people—locals, commuters, and visitors alike,” said Grace Robbings, co-founder of Reuben’s Brews. “It also expands our ability to give back through the Reuben’s Brews Foundation and our work with nonprofit partners.”

The space, which creatively blends a former grocery store and fashion retailer, reflects the brewery’s outside-the-box approach. “We’re excited to be part of downtown’s revitalization,” added co-founder Adam Robbings. “This new taproom checks all the boxes—great location, welcoming space, and room for future events, watch parties, and entertainment.”

Reuben’s Brews will announce its official grand opening date in the coming weeks, with plans for a weekend-long celebration featuring exclusive beer releases, family-friendly activities, and fun giveaways.

About Reuben’s Brews
Founded in Seattle and named after the founders’ first son, Reuben’s Brews is a family-run craft brewery known for its wide range of award-winning beers. Brewing “from the glass backward,” Reuben’s prioritizes thoughtful design, high-quality ingredients, and a passion for community. Learn more at reubensbrews.com.

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

Lakewood Brewing Unveils Temptress Blonde: A Bold Golden Stout

by

Lakewood Brewing Unveils Temptress BlondeDALLAS, TX – Lakewood Brewing Company has officially released Temptress Blonde, the latest addition to its popular Seduction Series. This new Imperial Golden Stout is a warm-weather twist on the brewery’s iconic Temptress—the best-selling craft stout in Texas. Temptress Blonde made its debut at the Lakewood Taproom on April 2 and is now rolling out statewide.

Crafted to surprise and delight, Temptress Blonde breaks the mold with its golden appearance and rich stout flavors. Brewed with vanilla, malt sweetness, and coffee from LDU Coffee, this golden stout delivers a complex taste experience, all while packing a punch at 9.1% ABV.

“Temptress Blonde is a beer for the senses,” said Wim Bens, founder and president of Lakewood Brewing Company. “Its light golden color hides a full-bodied stout profile. It’s a fun, unexpected twist that showcases our love for flavor and innovation.”

Lakewood Brewing continues to draw crowds to its Taproom in Garland, located at 2302 Executive Drive, where visitors can explore its lineup of IPAs, lagers, seasonal favorites, and small-batch releases. Beer lovers across Texas can use the Lakewood Beer Finder tool online to locate Temptress Blonde and other Lakewood brews on tap and in stores.

About Lakewood Brewing Company
Founded in 2012, Lakewood Brewing Company is a family-owned, independent craft brewery based in North Texas. Best known for its award-winning Temptress Imperial Milk Stout, Lakewood offers a wide range of Seriously Fun Beer—including IPAs, lagers, and innovative limited releases. For more information, visit lakewoodbrewing.com.

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