Spencer Mapes

Von Ebert + Shred Beer = Super Shredder

October 3, 2025 by Spencer Mapes

PORTLAND, Oregon — Von Ebert Brewing releases its collaboration “Super Shredder”, a West Coast IPA brewed with Shred Beer Co. from Rocklin, California.

“Shred Beer Co. is small but mighty, making a great name for themselves by winning Great American Beer Festival’s small brewery of the year and collecting several World Beer Cup Gold medals for their IPAs,” said Sam Pecoraro, brewmaster of Von Ebert Brewing. “Last year, we had so much fun working with Amy and Zack on ‘Concentrated Substance,’ a spinoff of ‘Volatile Substance NW IPA,’ that we wanted to build off that project and continue to bounce ideas off close friends.”

Throughout October, “Super Shredder” WC IPA will be available on draft at all Von Ebert Brewing locations as well as in 4-pack 16-ounce cans to-go and in West Coast bars, bottleshops and grocery stores.

“Von Ebert Brewing’s commitment to constantly evolving while honoring tradition makes for a fun collaborative experience with friends where nothing is sacred if it means delivering the best beer possible,” said Zack Frasher and Amy Heller, co-owners and brewers of Shred Beer Co. “In the ‘Super Shredder’ West Coast IPA, we used five types of hops to give tasting notes of diesel, dank, raspberry and passionfruit on this 7.5% ABV beer.”

In 2025, Von Ebert Brewing will have made six collaboration beers with breweries in Oregon, California and the last one will be with Cloudburst Brewing in Seattle, Washington scheduled for December.

Von Ebert Brewing recently opened its new N. Mississippi location (825 N. Cook St., Portland) – home to Portland’s largest beer can – to expand production and distribution from 4,000 barrels per year to as much as 20,000 barrels per year. This has allowed Von Ebert Brewing to sell more of its offerings in 12-ounce cans including: Volatile Substance NW IPA, Sector 7 Hazy IPA, Pils a German-style Pilsner and Clubhaus Lager.

Von Ebert Brewing was founded in 2018 by Tom M. Cook and Tom S. Cook in Portland, Oregon. Von Ebert Brewing is named after the family matriarch lovingly refer to as “Grandma Ebert.” The quintessential immigrant story, Grandma Ebert came to America from Germany via Ellis Island and relied on her grit and determination to create a successful life for her family here in the states. In that vein, the brewery has displayed those same traits and gained success through numerous World Beer Cup medals: 2025 Gold American Light Lager with Clubhaus, 2023 Gold German-Style Pilsner with Pils and 2024 Bronze Vienna Lager. Our moniker celebrates Grandma’s tenacity and honors our heritage. Von Ebert translates loosely to “House of Ebert” or in full English, “House of the Boar.”

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Prost To Oktoberfest Season at Lone Tree Brewing Company

August 26, 2025 by Spencer Mapes

COLORADO— The season of German-style lagers is upon us, and Lone Tree Brewing is excited to share theirs with Colorado. The 2025 batch is canned and available at retailers across the state.

Crafted with traditional European malts and German Hallertau Mittelfruh hops to emulate this classic beer style, the amber-hued Lone Tree Oktoberfest is a 5.5% ABV lager with rich, toasty and bready flavors, minimal bitterness, and a dry finish.

Find Lone Tree Oktoberfest on tap and in canned 12oz. 6-packs at both of the brewery tasting rooms in Lone Tree and Parker, and at select locations in Colorado.

On September 6, Lone Tree Brewing Parker will host Bustoberfest: Oktoberfest Celebration – Bus Loop Edition. Guests can enjoy pours of Oktoberfest Märzen and a Festbier that will tap for the occasion, live polka music from 2 to 6pm, and German-inspired eats from Big Stuff Food Truck. The bus will roll from 1 to 9pm, with additional stops at Downhill Brewing, Bent Barley Brewing, Bodega Beer Company, and Parker Pour House.

On September 13, Lone Tree Brewing’s original location will host Oktoberfest beginning with a tapping of the 2025 Lone Tree Festbier at 11am. Oktoberfest will also be on tap for this celebration, which features an outdoor vendor market from 11am to 4pm, a live polka band from 2 to 6pm, a stein hoisting competition, and food from Big Belly Bros BBQ.

Contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com with media inquiries about Lone Tree Brewing Co. and their favorite bier-drinking season.

ABOUT LONE TREE BREWING CO.

Lone Tree Brewing Company was the first brewery to open in Lone Tree, Colorado in Denver’s South Metro area in 2011, and has remained a local staple for more than a decade. Now deeply rooted in this community, the brewing company is growing friends at its two tasting rooms– the original location near Park Meadows Mall in Lone Tree, and in the heart of Parker, Colorado. Find Lone Tree’s stylistically diverse lineup of canned beers in cans and on draft in Colorado and Kansas to enjoy with your buds. Visit the brewery online at lonetreebrewingco.com.

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

April 24, 2025 by Spencer Mapes

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, founded in 2008 by Dan Schwarz and a group of high school friends in Stillwater, Minnesota—the birthplace of Minnesota—is one of the state’s pioneering craft breweries and remains a beloved local favorite in 2025. Based in a historic downtown Stillwater building just steps from the iconic Lift Bridge over the St. Croix River, the brewery is best known for its flagship Mini Donut Beer (a golden ale with real cinnamon-sugar mini donuts from the Minnesota State Fair), Mango Blonde (a refreshing fruit-infused blonde ale), and the award-winning Commander English barleywine. With a spacious taproom featuring river views, seasonal patio seating, and a lineup that includes hop-forward IPAs, crisp lagers, and the popular Hop Dish IPA, Lift Bridge blends Minnesota tradition with modern craft innovation. Their beers are distributed across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and parts of the Midwest, and the taproom regularly hosts events, live music, and food trucks—making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Minnesota’s thriving craft beer scene. Discover more at liftbridgebrewery.com

Yards Brewing Company Hosts 2025 Real Ale Invitational

April 21, 2025 by Spencer Mapes

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.

BarrelHouse Brewing Co. Acquires Iconic Sherwood Field Hangar for Ambitious Expansion in Paso Robles

April 18, 2025 by Spencer Mapes

PASO ROBLES, CA — BarrelHouse Brewing Co., a cornerstone of Central Coast craft brewing, has acquired the historic Sherwood Field Hangar, marking a significant milestone in its growth. Located at the bustling intersection of Niblick and Creston Roads, this 10-acre site in East Paso Robles will soon transform into a vibrant hub for craft beer enthusiasts and the local community.

The newly dubbed “Hangar Project” signals an exciting new chapter for BarrelHouse Brewing Co. The expansive 100,000-square-foot facility will house a cutting-edge brewhouse, advanced packaging systems, and increased production capacity. By integrating sustainable technologies like solar power, water conservation systems, and CO2 recapture, BarrelHouse is committed to crafting exceptional beers while prioritizing environmental responsibility.

“We’re thrilled to bring our passion for great beer and community connection from Tin City to this incredible new space,” said Jason Carvalho, Owner and Founder of BarrelHouse Brewing Co. “The Hangar Project allows us to scale our operations while staying true to our values of quality, sustainability, and bringing people together.”

The Hangar Project’s five-year vision extends beyond brewing. BarrelHouse plans to create an open-market destination that celebrates Paso Robles’ rich culinary and artisanal culture. By partnering with local food vendors, artisans, and businesses, the reimagined 1940s hangar and its grounds will become a lively gathering place for families, friends, and visitors to enjoy premium food, drinks, and entertainment.

Steeped in history, the Sherwood Field Hangar was originally constructed in 1940 by the Army Corps of Engineers as a key Central Coast base for the U.S. Army Air Force and Navy during World War II. Post-war, it served as the operational hub for the Ennis Paper Company, employing generations of local families. BarrelHouse’s design plans will honor this legacy by incorporating vintage airplanes and printing presses into the space, creating a unique blend of history and modern innovation.

BarrelHouse Brewing
BarrelHouse Brewing Co., the Central Coast’s premier family-owned craft brewery, continues to redefine the art of brewing with its unwavering commitment to quality, sustainability, and community engagement. Nestled in the heart of Paso Robles, BarrelHouse has become a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a dynamic taproom experience that pairs innovative, handcrafted beers with live music and a welcoming atmosphere. With a focus on eco-conscious practices, including water-efficient brewing and solar energy initiatives, BarrelHouse is not only crafting award-winning beers but also fostering a vibrant community hub where good people come together for great times. Stay tuned for exciting updates as BarrelHouse continues to elevate the craft beer scene in California’s wine country. For more details, visit https://barrelhousebrewing.com/.

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

April 18, 2025 by Spencer Mapes

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!

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

April 16, 2025 by Spencer Mapes

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.

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Arizona Wilderness Announces the Grand Opening of Their Miracle Mile Location

April 14, 2025 by Spencer Mapes

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.

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Live Oak Brewing Company Partners with Capital Reyes Distributing

April 8, 2025 by Spencer Mapes

Austin, 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/

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Brewers Association Announces 2025 Industry Award Winners

April 7, 2025 by Spencer Mapes

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.

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