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Beer Festival

2025 FOBAB Medal Winners and Best in Show

November 10, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

2025 FOBAB Medal Winners and Best in ShowThe 2025 Festival of Wood & Barrel-Aged Beer (FOBAB), was held November 7–8 at Chicago’s Credit Union 1 Arena, once again crowned the Midwest’s boldest barrel-aged creations in front of thousands of beer fans. More than 150 breweries poured over 300 rare beers, ciders, meads, and perrys across 2 sessions, while a blind panel of BJCP and Cicerone judges awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals in 13 categories. Standouts included gold-medal pours from Verboten Brewing, Third Eye Brewing, The Lost Abbey and Revolution Brewing with attendees voting for session-specific Fan Favorites. FOBAB medal continues a tradition of raising critical funds for the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild.

Born in 2003 as a modest 18-brewery gathering in a Chicago warehouse, FOBAB has grown into the world’s largest and most prestigious barrel-aged beer competition. Founded by the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild, the event pioneered blind judging for wood- and barrel-aged styles long before bourbon-barrel stouts became mainstream. Past Best in Show winners—such as Revolution Brewing’s Deep Wood Series, Side Project’s Bière du Pays, and More Brewing’s Mehndi—have shaped national trends and inspired countless limited releases. Two decades later, FOBAB remains a pilgrimage for craft enthusiasts seeking one-off rye-whiskey barleywines, wine-foeder sours, and spirit-barrel imperial stouts that simply never hit shelves.

FOBAB Medal Winners and Best in Show

Cider/Perry/Mead
Gold: Two Tickets to Pearadise – Misbeehavin’ Meads – Indiana
Silver: Right Bee Barrel Aged Semi-Dry – Right Bee Cider – Illinois
Bronze: Myrkvior Buzz – Treehive – Illinois

Wild Beer Mixed Culture/Acidic W/Fruit
Gold: Dr. Funk-In-Stein – Full Mile Beer Co. & Kitchen – Wisconsin
Silver: Fruited Spontanee – Pfriem Family Brewers – Oregon
Bronze: Fragmentary Delusion 2025 – Scribbled Lines Brewing – Minnesota

Beer Mixed Culture/Acidic
Gold: Duck Duck Gooze – The Lost Abbey – California
Silver: Funderin – Noon Whistle Brewing – Illinois
Bronze: Ruby – Imperial Oak Brewing – Illinois

Wild Brett Beer
Gold: Wild Patience – Confluence Brewing Company – Iowa
Silver: Balmy Nights – Cerebral Brewing – Congress Park – Colorado
Bronze: Cassavetes Brett Saison – Nine Giant Brewing – Ohio

Specialty & Experimental Beer
Gold: From Earth to You – Black Horizon Brewing – Illinois
Silver: La Dama Catrina – Cruz Blanca Brewpub – Illinois
Bronze: Brandy BA Imperial Pumpkin Ale – Lakefront Brewery

Fruit Beer
Gold: Fifteen Year Beer – Revolution Brewing – Illinois
Silver: BA Raspberry Ale – Shoreline Brewery – Indiana
Bronze: Caramel Apple Tripel – Sun King Brewery – Indiana

Other Dark Beer
Gold: Mountain Man – Verboten Brewpub – Colorado
Silver: Orin – Half Acre – Illinois
Bronze: Port Aged Belgian Big Fly – Midwest Coast Brewing – Illinois

Lagers
Gold: BA Doppelbock 2024 – Lupulin Brewing – Illinois
Silver: BA Mustachio – Will County Brewing Company – Illinois
Bronze: Maple Baltic Porter – Wooly Pig Farm Brewery – Ohio

Other Pale Beer
Gold: That Escalated Swiftly – Bubblehouse Brewing Company – Illinois
Silver: Vin Blanc Du Ciel(2025) – Brothership Brewing – Illinois
Bronze: Grand Cru – Goose Island Beer Company – Illinois

Blended Beer
Gold: Dows 65th Birthday Blend – Third Eye Brewing Company – Ohio
Silver: Grow In Darkness – Verboten Brewing and Barrel Project – Colorado
Bronze: 29th Anniversary XXIX – Firestone Walker – California

Barley Wine/Wheat Wine
Gold: Double Oaked Cognac Grow Old With You – Verboten Brewing and Barrel Project – Colorado
Silver: Kelly’s Private Stache – Third Eye Brewing Company – Ohio
Bronze: Damian Barleywine Ale – Firestone Walker Propagator – California

Specialty Strong Porter & Stout
Gold: Illusion of Vanilje – Taproom Beer Co. – California
Silver: Egregioius Philbin- Three Floyds Brewing – Indiana
Bronze: Coffee Champurrado Krampus Cookies – Old Irving Brewing Co – Illinois

Strong Porter & Stout
Gold: Eigengrau – Monochrome Brewing – Illinois
Silver: Controlled Chaos – Masthead Brewing – Ohio
Bronze: Tranquil 2025 – Riverlands Brewing – Illinois

Best of Show
Runner Up: Double Oaked Cognac Grow Old With You – Verboten Brewing and Barrel Project – Colorado
Winner: Duck Duck Gooze – The Lost Abbey – California

Fan Favorite
Winner: BBA Ego Death Salted Cashew Cluster – Resident Culture Brewing – North Carolina

For more information on the 2025 Festival of Wood & Barrel-Aged Beer, Click Here.

For Fun Beer Facts, Trivia and more: Click Here

Filed Under: Beer, Beer Competition, Beer Festival

2025 Colorado Brewers Cup Brewery of the Year & Medal Winners

October 28, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Colorado Brewers Cup 2025 Medal Winners

In the heart of the Rockies, where crisp mountain air meets creative brewing genius, the inaugural 2025 Colorado Brewers Cup turned into an epic hoppy showdown that had beer lovers raising their pints in triumph! Over 650 entries from 134 craft breweries battled it out in 26 categories, judged blindly by 58 pros who surely needed a designated driver after tasting all that liquid gold. Denver’s River North Brewery crushed it as Mid-Size Brewery of the Year with four medals (including golds for bold Belgian ales and decadent coffee-chocolate desserts), while Durango legend Carver Brewing Co. claimed Small Brewery of the Year honors with a trio of shiny awards. Westbound & Down dominated the hoppy scene with six medals total, proving Colorado’s IPAs and pilsners are basically unbeatable. From moonlit dunkels to cinnamon-roll blondes, this first-ever state-only competition celebrated the wild, innovative spirit of the Centennial State’s craft beer scene — cheers to more foam-filled victories in 2026!

Congrats to all the medal winners at the Colorado Brewers Cup. Especially the Carver Brewing and River North Brewery which won “Brewery of the Year” honors.

Colorado Brewers Cup 2025 Award Winners:
Brewery of the Year: Small (0-600 barrels) – Carver Brewing Co.
Brewery of the Year: Mid-sized (600+ barrels) – River North Brewery

Colorado Brewers Cup 2025 Medal Winners:

American & International Pale Lagers
Gold: Cerveceria Colorado (Denver) – Venga
Silver: Westbound & Down Brewing Co. (Idaho Springs) – Landing Gear Pils
Bronze: Ratio Beerworks (Denver) – Cityscapes

Pale Bitter European Lagers
Gold: New Image Brewing Co. (Wheat Ridge) – Classic Pilsner
Silver: Hideaway Park Brewery (Winter Park) – Dortmunder
Bronze: Seedstock Brewing Co. (Denver) – Seedstock German Pilsner

Hoppy Pale American & International Lagers
Gold: Hideaway Park Brewery (Winter Park) – Publik Skool Pilsner
Silver: Westbound & Down Brewing Co. (Idaho Springs) – Infinity Pils
Bronze: WestFax Brewing Co. (Lakewood) – Pillieve

Golden, Blonde, & Other Light Ales
Gold: Westbound & Down Mill (Lafayette) – The Coloradan
Silver: Bristol Brewing Co. (Colorado Springs) – Beehive Honey Wheat
Bronze: LUKI Brewery (Arvada) – Tuba Cheer

Kölsch
Gold: New Terrain Brewing Co. (Golden) – Rise and Climb
Silver: Liquid Mechanics Brewing (Lafayette) – Kölsch
Bronze: Joyride Brewing Co. (Edgewater) – Ice Cutter Kölsch

Pale Malty European Lagers
Gold: Fritz Family Brewers (Niwot) – The Boss
Silver: Carver Brewing Co. (Durango) – Lightner Creek Lager
Bronze: Resolute Brewing Co. (Centennial) – Front Porch

Amber Lagers
Gold: Eagle River Brewing (Eagle) – ERB Octoberfest
Silver: Eagle River Brewing (Eagle) – Free Stone Lager
Bronze: Seedstock Brewing Co. (Denver) – Seedstock Bohemian Dunkel

Dark Lagers
Gold: Wibby Brewing (Longmont)- Moondoor Dunkel
Silver: Seedstock Brewing Co. (Denver)- Seedstock Roggen Schwarzbier
Bronze: Fritz Family Brewers (Niwot) – Niwot After Dark

Fruit & Field Beers
Gold: Elevation Beer Co. (Poncha Springs) – Coconut Oil Man
Silver: Strange Brewing Co. (Denver) – Cherry Kriek
Bronze: Avant Garde Aleworks (Estes Park)- Harvest Saison

Session & Pale Ales
Gold: Cannonball Creek Brewing Co. (Golden) – Featherweight
Silver: Cannonball Creek Brewing Co. (Golden) – Trump Hands
Bronze: Comrade Brewing Co. (Denver) – Honeyman 64

Standard American-Style IPAs
Gold: Amalgam Brewing(Denver) – Modern West
Silver: Westbound & Down Mill (Lafayette) – Westbound Select
Bronze: Westbound & Down Mill (Lafayette) – Westbound IPA

Standard International & Experimental Hoppy Beers
Gold: Silver: Westbound & Down Mill (Lafayette) – Spirit of the West
Silver: Second Dawn (Aurora) – Tree Run
Bronze: Cerebral Brewing – Aurora Arts (Aurora) – Gasoline Rainbows

Standard Hazy Pale Ales & IPAs
Gold: Living the Dream Brewing Co. (Highlands Ranch) – Trailhead Fog
Silver: Beyond The Mountain Brewing (Boulder) – I Wish You More
Bronze: Aspen Brewing Co. (Aspen) – Excess In Moderation

Strong & Imperial Hoppy Beers
Gold: Station 26 Brewing Co. (Denver) – 11th Anniversary Double IPA
Silver: Cerebral Brewing – Aurora Arts (Aurora) – Cheat Code
Bronze: Odell Brewing Sloan’s Lake Brewhouse (Denver) – Cloudship

Malty North American Beers
Gold: Telluride Brewing Co. (Telluride) – Face Down Brown
Silver: Carver Brewing Co. (Durango) – Old Oak Amber Ale
Bronze: Odell Brewing (Fort Collins) – 90 Shilling

Classic UK Amber & Brown Ales
Gold: Stodgy Brewing Co. (Fort Collins) – Scottish Ale
Silver: Bristol Brewing Co. (Colorado Springs) – Draft Project London Brown
Bronze: Carver Brewing Co. (Durango) – Colorado Trail Nut Brown Ale

Porters & Stouts
Gold: Banded Oak Brewing (Denver) – Paramount Porter
Silver: Stodgy Brewing Co. (Fort Collins) – English Porter
Bronze: Bent Barley Brewing Co. (Aurora) – Dry Irish Stout

Strong Classic UK & North American Ales
Gold: River North Brewery (Denver) – Mr. Sandman
Silver: Verboten Brewing (Loveland) – Grow Old With You
Bronze: River North Brewery (Denver) – Hello Darkness

Herb, Spice, & Smoked Beers
Gold: Liquid Mechanics Brewing (Lafayette) – El Poblano Borracho
Silver: Left Hand Brewing Co. (Longmont) – Mexican Hot Chocolate Milk Stout
Bronze: Incantation Brewing (Aurora) – Signals

Continental Rye & Wheat Beers
Gold: LUKI Brewery (Arvada) – Dunk On Em
Silver: Tres Litros Beer Co. (Salida) – Hamer Time
Bronze: New Terrain Brewing Co. (Golden) – Suntrip

Belgian and French Ales
Gold: River North Brewery (Denver) – River North White
Silver: Elevation Beer Co. (Poncha Springs) – Apis IV
Bronze: Windfall Brewing Co. (Westminster) – Windfall Saison

Sour Ales
Gold: Bruz Beers (Denver) – Ghost in the Wood
Silver: Diebolt Brewing Co. (Denver) – David Frambowie
Bronze: Berkeley Alley Beer Co (Arvada) – Pistachio Lemon Meringue

Coffee, Chocolate, & Dessert Beers
Gold: River North Brewery (Denver) – Nightmare Fuel
Silver: Verboten Brewing (Loveland) – Others in Darkness: Irish Coffee
Bronze: 300 Suns Brewing (Longmont)- Psychotic Balaclava Horchata Stout

Brett & Wild Beers
Gold: Crooked Stave Brewing Co. (Denver) – Spon
Silver: Cellar West Brewery (Lafayette) – Green Spur
Bronze: Primitive Beer (Lafayette) – Stable Of Stars

Wood & Aged Beers
Gold: Launch Pad Brewery (Aurora) – Magnificent Desolation (Russell 8 Year)
Silver: Cerebral Brewing – Aurora Arts (Aurora) – Here Be Monsters
Bronze: Locavore Beer Works (Littleton) – Black Pearl 4×3

Experimental & Specialty Beers
Gold: The Post Brewing Co. (Lafayette) – East County Fine Malt Liquor
Silver: Bearded Brewer Artisan Ales (Longmont) – Cinnamon Roll Blonde Ale
Bronze: Wonderland Brewing Co. (Broomfield) – Oily Oaf

The Colorado Brewers Guild
The Colorado Brewers Guild is a non-profit trade organization dedicated to promoting, protecting, and advancing independent craft breweries across the State of Craft Beer. Through advocacy, community building, education, and public outreach, we support a thriving craft beer culture. Our members include operating breweries, breweries in planning, and industry partners. Today, the majority of Colorado’s 400+ craft breweries are proud members of the CBG. Website: https://coloradobeer.org/

 

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

Filed Under: Beer, Beer Festival

National American Beer Day: A Toast to Tradition and Craft

October 27, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Celebrating National American Beer Day
Celebrating National American Beer Day: A Toast to Tradition and and Craft
Every year on October 27, beer enthusiasts across the United States raise their glasses to celebrate National American Beer Day, a day dedicated to honoring the rich history, cultural significance, and vibrant craft of American beer. From the crisp lagers of the Midwest to the hop-heavy IPAs of the West Coast, this day is a tribute to the diversity and innovation that define the American beer scene. So, grab a cold one, and let’s dive into the story of National American Beer Day, its origins, and why it’s a beloved occasion for beer lovers everywhere.

The Origins of National American Beer Day
While the exact origins of National American Beer Day are somewhat hazy—like a good hazy IPA—the day is believed to have emerged in the early 21st century as a way to celebrate the resurgence of American brewing. The date, October 27, may not have a definitive historical event tied to it, but it aligns with the fall season, a time when breweries historically released their seasonal beers and communities gathered to enjoy the fruits of the harvest.
Beer has been a part of American culture since colonial times, with early settlers brewing their own concoctions using local ingredients like corn and molasses. By the 19th century, German immigrants brought their lager-making expertise, transforming the U.S. into a beer-loving nation. However, Prohibition (1920–1933) nearly wiped out the industry, leaving only a handful of large-scale breweries in its wake. The craft beer revolution of the late 20th century, led by pioneers like Sierra Nevada and Samuel Adams, sparked a renaissance that gave rise to thousands of microbreweries and brewpubs, making American beer a global force.
National American Beer Day celebrates this journey—from humble colonial brews to the innovative craft beers that have put the U.S. on the map as a brewing powerhouse.

Why American Beer?
American beer is as diverse as the nation itself. The U.S. boasts over 9,000 breweries (as of recent data), ranging from small, family-run operations to industry giants. This diversity is reflected in the styles of beer produced, which include:
Lagers: Crisp, clean, and refreshing, lagers like those from Yuengling (America’s oldest brewery, founded in 1829) remain a staple at bars and backyard barbecues.
IPAs: The India Pale Ale, with its bold hops and bitter bite, has become the poster child of the craft beer movement, with West Coast, New England, and double IPAs dominating tap lists.
Stouts and Porters: Rich, dark, and often infused with flavors like coffee or chocolate, these beers showcase American creativity.
Sours and Wild Ales: A newer trend, these tart, funky beers highlight the experimental spirit of American brewers.
Seasonals and Specialty Brews: From pumpkin ales in the fall to fruity shandies in the summer, American brewers embrace local and seasonal ingredients to create unique flavors.

What sets American beer apart is its fearless innovation. Brewers experiment with everything from barrel aging to unusual ingredients like peanut butter, maple syrup, or even hot peppers. This creativity has earned American beers countless awards at international competitions, proving that the U.S. is no longer just a consumer of great beer—it’s a creator.
How to Celebrate National American Beer Day

National American Beer Day is all about appreciating the craft, community, and culture of American beer. Here are some ways to join the festivities:
Visit a Local Brewery: Support your local craft brewery by stopping by for a pint or a flight. Many breweries host special events, tap takeovers, or release limited-edition beers on this day. Check their social media or websites for details.
Host a Beer Tasting: Gather friends and sample a variety of American beers. Include a mix of styles—perhaps a crisp lager, a juicy IPA, and a velvety stout. Pair them with snacks like pretzels, cheese, or spicy wings to elevate the experience.
Learn About Brewing: Take a brewery tour or dive into the history of American beer. Many breweries offer behind-the-scenes looks at their process, from malting to fermentation.
Raise a Glass to History: Toast to iconic American breweries like Anheuser-Busch, Miller, or Coors, which have shaped the industry, or to trailblazers like Anchor Brewing, whose Anchor Steam Beer helped kickstart the craft movement.
Share on Social Media: Post about your favorite American beer using hashtags like #NationalAmericanBeerDay or #CraftBeer. Many breweries engage with fans online, and you might discover new brews to try.
Cook with Beer: Incorporate beer into your cooking—think beer-battered fish, stout-infused chili, or IPA-marinated chicken. The flavors of American beer can add depth to your dishes.

The Economic and Cultural Impact
The American beer industry is a powerhouse, contributing over $400 billion annually to the U.S. economy and supporting millions of jobs, from farmers growing hops to bartenders pouring pints. Craft breweries, in particular, have revitalized small towns and urban neighborhoods, turning taprooms into community hubs where people gather to connect and celebrate.
Culturally, beer is woven into the American fabric. It’s there at baseball games, tailgates, and holiday gatherings. National American Beer Day reminds us of the role beer plays in bringing people together, fostering creativity, and showcasing regional pride.

Fun Facts About American Beer
Oldest Brewery: D.G. Yuengling & Son, founded in 1829 in Pottsville, Pennsylvania, is the oldest operating brewery in the U.S.
Craft Boom: The number of craft breweries has grown from just 89 in 1978 to over 9,000 today, according to the Brewers Association.
Hops Haven: The Pacific Northwest, especially Yakima Valley in Washington, produces about 75% of the nation’s hops, a key ingredient in many beers.
Beer Capitals: Cities like Portland, Oregon, and Asheville, North Carolina, are renowned for their high brewery-per-capita ratios.

A Toast to the Future
As we celebrate National American Beer Day on October 27, 2025, we look forward to the continued evolution of American beer. With sustainability efforts, new brewing techniques, and a growing emphasis on inclusivity in the industry, the future is bright for this beloved beverage. Whether you’re a fan of a classic Budweiser or a barrel-aged sour from a local microbrewery, there’s an American beer for every palate.
So, this National American Beer Day, head to your favorite taproom, crack open a cold one, or try brewing your own at home. Cheers to the brewers, the dreamers, and the beer lovers who make this day—and American beer—something to celebrate!

For Fun Beer Facts, Trivia and more: Click Here

Filed Under: Beer, Beer Festival

National Barrel Aged Beer Day – October 3, 2025

October 17, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Barrel Aged Beer Day - First Friday in October

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

 

Filed Under: Beer, Beer Festival

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.

Filed Under: Beer, Beer Festival

Bruz Beers Hosts 8th Annual Belgian Brew Fest in Denver on October 4, 2025

August 20, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

8th Annual Belgian Brew Fest will take place at Bruz Beers’ original Midtown location at 1675 West 67th Avenue #100, Denver, CO 80221.
Denver, Colorado
– Bruz Beers, renowned for crafting exceptional Belgian-style beers and curating top-tier international beer selections, is thrilled to announce the 8th Annual Belgian Brew Fest. Set for Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, this outdoor festival will take place at Bruz Beers’ original Midtown location at 1675 West 67th Avenue #100, Denver, CO 80221.

Event Highlights
Unlimited Beer Pours: Enjoy dozens of world-class Belgian-style beers from 15 acclaimed breweries, including local Denver craft favorites and iconic European breweries.

Participating Breweries:
Bruz Beers
Brewery Ommegang
Duvel
Boulevard Brewing Co.
Brasserie Chouffe
Barquentine Brewing
Purpose Brewing Co.
River North Brewery
Our Mutual Friend Brewing Company
Merchant Du Vin
Primitive Beer
Milieu Fermentation
Wanderment Brewing
Mad Macks Brewing
Locavore Beer Works

Entertainment & Amenities: Live music by The Tracers, a variety of food trucks, and a dog treat truck for pet-friendly fun. Well-behaved dogs with responsible owners are welcome.

Rain or Shine: The festival will proceed regardless of weather.

Tickets and Details
Tickets are priced at $55 per person (plus fees) and include unlimited beer pours. Purchase tickets through Eventbrite. The event has sold out annually, so early booking is recommended.

“The Belgian Brew Fest is a celebration of exceptional Belgian-style beers, both local and international. We hand-select each brewery to ensure an unforgettable experience, and the consistent sell-outs show how much Denver loves this event,” says Ryan Evans, Bruz Beers Co-Founder.

About Bruz Beers
Bruz Beers, founded in 2016 by Ryan Evans and Charlie Gottenkieny, has become a cornerstone of Denver’s craft beer scene, celebrated for its dedication to authentic Belgian-style beers and innovative Belgian-inspired brews. Located in Denver’s Midtown at 1675 West 67th Avenue #100 and a second taproom in Arvada, Bruz has earned accolades, including being named one of the 13 Best Craft Breweries in America by Hop Culture. The brewery’s founders, driven by a passion for Belgium’s rich brewing tradition, have cultivated a reputation for quality, blending traditional techniques with creative flair. Their commitment to excellence is evident in their diverse lineup, which includes year-round staples, seasonal releases, and limited-edition beers available on tap, in crowlers, bottles, and cans.

Under the guidance of head brewer Dave Olson, Bruz Beers produces a wide range of styles, from classic dubbels and tripels to inventive sours and barrel-aged creations, often incorporating unique ingredients and fermentation methods. The brewery’s portfolio showcases its mastery of Belgian yeast profiles, delivering complex flavors that appeal to both purists and adventurous drinkers. Hosting the annual Belgian Brew Fest, now in its eighth year, Bruz brings together world-class breweries to celebrate the art of Belgian-style brewing. With a focus on community and craftsmanship, Bruz continues to push boundaries while honoring the heritage of Belgian beer, solidifying its place as a beloved fixture in Colorado’s craft beer landscape. Website: bruzbeers.com

What Makes Belgian Beers Special
Belgian beers stand out for their rich diversity, complex flavors, and centuries-old brewing traditions that blend artistry with innovation. For a beer geek, the magic lies in several key elements. First, Belgian yeast strains are the heart of these beers, imparting unique fruity, spicy, and phenolic notes—think banana, clove, or pepper— that define styles like Saison, Dubbel, Tripel, and Witbier. These yeasts often ferment at higher temperatures, creating bold, expressive profiles that evolve in the glass. Second, Belgian brewers embrace a wide range of ingredients beyond the standard malt, hops, and water. Spices (coriander, orange peel), candi sugar, and even wild yeasts or bacteria for lambics and sours add layers of complexity. This willingness to experiment results in beers that range from crisp and refreshing to funky, tart, or deeply malty.

Another factor is the historical and cultural depth of Belgian brewing, often tied to Trappist monasteries and farmhouse traditions. Beers like Orval or Westmalle are crafted with recipes refined over generations, offering a sense of heritage that resonates with enthusiasts. Bottle conditioning, where beers undergo secondary fermentation in the bottle, adds natural carbonation and allows flavors to develop over time, making many Belgian beers age-worthy. Styles like Lambic, spontaneously fermented with wild yeasts, or Gueuze, a blend of young and old lambics, are particularly revered for their funky, tart uniqueness. For geeks, the unpredictability, craftsmanship, and sheer variety— from light Witbiers to robust Quadrupels— make Belgian beers a playground of flavor and tradition, unlike any other beer culture in the world.

Bruz Beers Hosts 8th Annual Belgian Brew Fest in Denver on October 4, 2025

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Raise a Stein with KC Festbier at the KC Oktoberfest at the Crown Center!

August 13, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Raise a Stein with KC Bier at the KC Oktoberfest at the Crown Center!

Kansas City, MO – Kansas City Bier Company, the metro’s premier locally-owned brewery, is tapping into the Oktoberfest spirit with its celebrated Festbier and the lively KC Oktoberfest at Crown Center. Mark your calendars for October 3rd (5:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m.) and October 4th (11:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m.) for a weekend packed with authentic German-style beer, delicious food, vibrant music, and family-friendly festivities.

Festbier: The Heart of KC OktoberfestFestbier: The Heart of KC Oktoberfest
Nothing says Oktoberfest like a crisp, flavorful Festbier, a Vienna-style lager crafted with traditional German brewing techniques. Expect rich notes of biscuit, caramel, and honey from imported Vienna and Pilsner malts, finished with decoction mashing, natural carbonation, and extended lagering for a smooth, refreshing sip. Available in 6-packs and on draft across Kansas and Missouri from August through October, Festbier is KC Bier Co.’s top-selling seasonal brew, with over 14,260 pints poured at last year’s festival!

KC Oktoberfest: A Bavarian Bash for All
Inspired by Munich’s legendary Oktoberfest, KC Oktoberfest at Crown Center drew nearly 16,000 attendees in 2024. This year’s festival promises an even bigger celebration with:

Beer and Wine: Sip on Festbier, plus year-round favorites like Dunkel, Hefeweizen, Helles Lager, and Never Say IPA. Gluten-free cider and three German wines will also be available, with a dedicated Wine Tent near the entrance.

Live Music: Dance to three stages of non-stop entertainment, from traditional polka in the north tent to high-energy rock in the south. Featuring acts like Die Schlauberger, The Polka Brothers, Über Cool, and Bram Wijnand’s Polka on Steroids, there’s music for every taste.

Food: Savor Bavarian classics like pretzels, Dunkel brats, schnitzel, goulash, and käsekuchen, alongside local festival favorites. Vendors accept cash and card for your convenience.

Games and Competitions: Test your skills with cornhole, giant Jenga, giant beer pong, and the traditional German Hammerschlagen. Don’t miss the Masskrugstemmen stein-holding contest or the Best Dressed Bavarian competition for a chance to shine.

Family Fun: Kids 12 and under enjoy free entry, carnival games (ring toss, cornhole, skeeball), crafts, and an inflatable obstacle course.

With seating for over 1,800 under the Crown Center terrace tent and a German Bierhalle-style tent, there’s plenty of room to Prost with friends and family.

Tickets and Details
Grab your Early Bird tickets for just $14 at kcoktoberfest.com until September 19th. Prices rise to $17 until 5:00 p.m. on October 3rd, and $20 at the door. Advance tickets mean faster entry, so plan ahead! Kids 12 and under get in free. Visit kcoktoberfest.com for the full schedule and details.
About Crown Center

Nestled in downtown Kansas City, Crown Center is a hub for dining, shopping, entertainment, and more, attracting over 5 million visitors annually. Home to Hallmark Cards’ international headquarters, it’s the perfect backdrop for KC Oktoberfest’s Bavarian revelry.

Join us for a weekend of beer, music, and gemütlichkeit at KC Oktoberfest! Prost!

About KC Bier Co.
Since its founding in 2014, KC Bier Co. has become Kansas City’s largest locally-owned brewery, dedicated to brewing authentic German-style beers with the same freshness and flavor found in Germany. Nestled in the Waldo neighborhood at 310 W. 79th St., the brewery was established by founders Steve Holle and Matt Moore, whose passion for Bavarian brewing traditions drives their mission. Using imported hops, barley, and yeast, along with time-honored techniques like decoction mashing and extended lagering, KC Bier Co. delivers crisp, flavorful beers served in their inviting Bierhalle and Biergarten. From year-round favorites like Hefeweizen and Dunkel to seasonal stars like the award-winning Festbier, their brews are available in bottles and on draft across Kansas City, Kansas, and western Missouri.

Led by head brewer Jürgen Hager, a German native with decades of expertise, KC Bier Co. combines tradition with innovation to craft beers that stand out in the Midwest. Their Festbier, a Vienna-style lager with biscuit, caramel, and honey notes, is a seasonal highlight, selling over 14,260 pints at last year’s KC Oktoberfest. Other standouts include the refreshing Helles Lager, the hoppy Never Say IPA, and the gluten-free cider for diverse palates. With a commitment to quality and community, KC Bier Co. hosts events like KC Oktoberfest at Crown Center, celebrating German culture with music, food, and family-friendly fun. Visit kcbier.com to explore their story and sip the taste of Bavaria in Kansas City.

kcbier.com.

About Crown Center
Nestled in downtown Kansas City, Crown Center is a hub for dining, shopping, entertainment, and more, attracting over 5 million visitors annually. Home to Hallmark Cards’ international headquarters, it’s the perfect backdrop for KC Oktoberfest’s Bavarian revelry.

Join us for a weekend of beer, music, and gemütlichkeit at KC Oktoberfest! Prost!

Filed Under: Beer, Beer Festival

Happy National IPA Day – First Thursday of August

August 2, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

IPA Day

Every year on the first Thursday of August, beer enthusiasts around the globe raise a glass to celebrate National IPA Day

Every year on the first Thursday of August, beer enthusiasts around the globe raise a glass to celebrate National IPA Day, a tribute to one of the most beloved and influential beer styles: the India Pale Ale. In 2025, IPA Day falls on August 2, marking a vibrant occasion for brewers, bars, and beer lovers to honor the hoppy, bold, and diverse world of IPAs.

The Origins of National IPA Day
National IPA Day was founded in 2011 by beer advocates Ashley Routson and Ryan Ross, who sought to create a global celebration of the India Pale Ale. The date was chosen to coincide with the peak of summer, when crisp, refreshing IPAs are especially appealing. Unlike many beer-related holidays, IPA Day is not tied to a specific brewery or brand but serves as a universal nod to the style’s impact on craft brewing.

Why IPAs Matter
IPAs have become the flagship style of the craft beer movement, known for their versatility and wide range of flavors. From the piney, resinous West Coast IPAs to the juicy, hazy New England IPAs, the style offers something for every palate. Substyles like Session IPAs, Double IPAs, and even Black IPAs showcase the creativity of brewers worldwide.

The hop-forward nature of IPAs has also driven advancements in hop cultivation and brewing science. Hops like Citra, Mosaic, and Simcoe have become household names among beer fans, delivering notes of citrus, tropical fruit, and dank earthiness. This diversity keeps IPAs at the forefront of beer culture, with new variations emerging constantly.

How to Celebrate National IPA Day
IPA Day is all about community, discovery, and appreciation. Here are some ways to join the festivities on August 2, 2025:

Visit a Local Brewery or Taproom: Many breweries host IPA Day events, featuring special releases, tap takeovers, or flights showcasing different IPA styles. Check with local spots for limited-edition brews or collaborations.

Host a Tasting Party: Gather friends and sample a variety of IPAs. Include classics like Sierra Nevada’s Hazy Little Thing, modern favorites like Tree House’s Julius, or new releases from local brewers. Pair with foods like spicy tacos or sharp cheddar to complement the hops.

Explore New Styles: Use IPA Day as an excuse to try a substyle you haven’t tasted before. Pick up a Brut IPA for a dry, champagne-like twist or a Milkshake IPA for a creamy, fruit-forward experience.

Share on Social Media: Join the global conversation by posting about your IPA Day experience using the hashtag #IPADay. Share photos of your pours, tasting notes, or brewery visits to connect with other beer lovers.

Learn About Brewing: Dive into the art and science of IPAs by reading up on hop varieties or watching brewing tutorials. Some breweries offer virtual or in-person workshops on IPA Day.

National IPA Day 2025: What to Expect
As craft beer continues to grow, IPA Day 2025 promises to be bigger than ever. Expect breweries to roll out experimental IPAs, with trends like cold IPAs (fermented with lager yeast for a crisp finish) and hop-water hybrids gaining traction. Bars and bottle shops may offer curated IPA menus, while online communities on platforms like X will buzz with discussions about favorite brews and new releases.

Sustainability is also becoming a focus, with some brewers highlighting eco-friendly practices like sourcing local hops or reducing water usage. Look for IPA Day events that emphasize green initiatives or support local agriculture.

A Toast to IPAs
IPA Day is more than a celebration of beer—it’s a nod to the creativity, passion, and community that define craft brewing. Whether you’re a hophead or a casual sipper, August 2, 2025, is the perfect day to crack open an IPA, savor its complex flavors, and toast to the style that continues to shape the beer world.

So, grab a pint, share a story, and cheers to IPA Day!

The History of India Pale Ales
India Pale Ale, or IPA, is one of the most beloved beer styles today, known for its bold hop flavors, citrusy aromas, and refreshing bitterness. But where did this iconic brew come from? Let’s dive into the fascinating history of IPAs, from their origins in 18th-century England to their modern-day craft beer renaissance.

The Birth of IPA: A Solution for the British Empire
The story of IPA begins in the late 1700s, during the height of British colonialism. The British East India Company was shipping goods—and soldiers—to India, and keeping those troops happy meant ensuring a steady supply of beer. However, the long sea voyage, which could take up to six months, was brutal on traditional beers like porters and mild ales. Warm temperatures and rough seas often caused the brews to spoil before reaching their destination.

Enter George Hodgson, a brewer from London’s Bow Brewery. In the 1780s, Hodgson began experimenting with a beer that could withstand the journey. His solution? A pale ale with higher alcohol content and a heavy dose of hops. Hops, a natural preservative, helped protect the beer from spoilage, while the extra alcohol gave it additional staying power. This new brew, initially called “pale ale as prepared for India,” was a hit with British expatriates and soldiers in India. By the 1820s, it was officially dubbed “India Pale Ale.”

The Evolution of IPA in the 19th Century
As demand for IPA grew, other British brewers, particularly in Burton-upon-Trent, jumped on the bandwagon. Burton’s water, rich in minerals like gypsum, enhanced the beer’s clarity and hop bitterness, making it the epicenter of IPA production. Breweries like Bass and Allsopp refined the style, creating pale, crisp, and intensely hoppy beers that became a staple in British pubs and abroad.

By the mid-19th century, IPAs weren’t just for export. They gained popularity in England, especially among the upper classes, who enjoyed their refreshing and robust character. However, as refrigeration and pasteurization improved, the need for heavily hopped, high-alcohol beers diminished, and IPAs began to fade from prominence by the early 20th century.

The American Craft Beer Revival
Fast forward to the 1970s, when the American craft beer movement sparked a renaissance for IPAs. Brewers in the United States, inspired by traditional British styles but eager to innovate, began experimenting with local ingredients. The result was a distinctly American take on the IPA, characterized by bold, citrusy, and piney hop flavors thanks to varieties like Cascade, Centennial, and Chinook grown in the Pacific Northwest.

Pioneering breweries like Sierra Nevada, Anchor, and Stone Brewing helped define the American IPA, with beers that were hoppier and more aromatic than their British predecessors. In the 1990s and 2000s, the style exploded in popularity, giving rise to subcategories like West Coast IPAs (crisp, bitter, and hop-forward), East Coast IPAs (softer and maltier), and Double or Imperial IPAs (higher alcohol and even more hops).

The Modern IPA Explosion
Today, IPAs dominate the craft beer scene, accounting for a significant share of sales worldwide. The style has evolved far beyond its British and American roots, with brewers pushing boundaries to create innovative variations:

New England IPAs (NEIPAs): Hazy, juicy, and low in bitterness, with tropical fruit flavors from hops like Citra and Mosaic.

Session IPAs: Lighter in alcohol but still packed with hop flavor, perfect for easy drinking.

Sour IPAs: Combining the tartness of sour beers with hoppy IPA characteristics.

Milkshake IPAs: Creamy and sweet, often brewed with lactose and fruit for a dessert-like experience.

Craft breweries around the globe, from Australia to Scandinavia, have embraced IPAs, each adding their own cultural twist. In India, where the style was born, modern breweries like Bira 91 and Gateway Brewing Co. are crafting IPAs that pay homage to the beer’s heritage while appealing to local tastes.

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Filed Under: Beer, Beer Festival

Milwaukee Uncut Tropical Pale Ale Celebrates Summer

July 10, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

3 Sheeps Brewing
Photo Credit: 3 Sheeps Brewing

Sheboygan, WI – 3 Sheeps Brewing, one of Wisconsin’s fastest-growing craft breweries, has partnered with the popular local entertainment show Milwaukee Uncut to create Milwaukee Uncut Tropical Pale Ale, a vibrant beer that captures the essence of summer in Milwaukee. This collaboration celebrates the city’s bold spirit and unfiltered energy.

Milwaukee Uncut Tropical Pale Ale

Brewed with the team behind Milwaukee Uncut, a podcast and entertainment platform with over 30 million views across social media, this Tropical Pale Ale bursts with tropical fruit flavors and a crisp, refreshing finish. It’s a tribute to Milwaukee’s lively culture and the iconic 414 area code. The beer is available in cans and on tap at 3 Sheeps’ Milwaukee and Sheboygan taprooms, as well as over 80 locations across Wisconsin.

“This beer is bright, fresh, and embodies the flavor of a Milwaukee summer,” said Richie Burke, host of Milwaukee Uncut and founder of Story Mark Studios. “It’s the perfect companion for the city’s stories, sunshine, and vibrant energy.”

“This collaboration with Milwaukee Uncut was a blast,” said Grant Pauly, founder and brewmaster of 3 Sheeps Brewing. “Milwaukee’s creative and bold spirit inspired this beer. It’s flavorful, shareable, and a true reflection of the city’s energy.”

About Milwaukee Uncut and 3 Sheeps Brewing

Milwaukee Uncut, relaunched in 2024 after a brief hiatus, has grown into a cultural phenomenon with over 30 million views, a twice-weekly newsletter reaching 19,000+ subscribers, and a popular event series. Its mission is to unite Milwaukee through unique news, entertainment, and experiences. 3 Sheeps Brewing, a proud partner of Milwaukee Uncut since August 2024, is known for its innovative beers and community focus. This marks their first beer collaboration, blending craft brewing with Milwaukee’s dynamic culture.

For more information please visit https://3sheepsbrewing.com/

Filed Under: Beer, Beer Festival, breweries

Celebrate Virginia Beer Day – July 14, 2025

July 8, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Virginia Beer DayVirginia Beer Day, set for Monday, July 14, 2025, is a statewide celebration of the Commonwealth’s vibrant craft beer scene, bringing together breweries, beer enthusiasts, and communities to honor the artistry and economic impact of independent craft brewing. Organized by Craft Beer Professionals, this inaugural event aims to connect fans with local breweries while supporting the future of the industry through education. With over 350 licensed craft breweries contributing a $1.7 billion economic impact and 14,263 jobs in Virginia, this day is a perfect opportunity to raise a glass to the state’s rich brewing heritage and innovative spirit.

What to Expect on Virginia Beer Day
On July 14, participating breweries across Virginia will offer an exclusive limited-edition pint glass featuring original artwork by Virginia-based illustrator Tianna DaCosta, known for her nostalgic and playful designs influenced by video games and street art. For every glass sold, $1 will be donated to fund scholarships for the 2025 Virginia Brewers Conference, held September 15–17 in Richmond, empowering beer professionals with educational and networking opportunities. Visitors can enjoy special beer releases, live music, food trucks, and taproom events, making it a festive day to explore Virginia’s craft beer trails, from the Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail to the Richmond Beer Trail.

Why Virginia Beer Day Matters
Virginia ranks #1 in the South for breweries per capita and #16 in the U.S., with a 500% growth in breweries since the 2012 tasting room bill. The craft beer industry not only supports local farmers and tourism but also fosters community through events like Virginia Beer Day. Whether you’re sipping a hazy IPA at Hardywood Park Craft Brewery or a crisp lager at Aslin Beer Company’s Virginia Beach taproom, this day encourages you to discover new flavors and support local businesses. Breweries like Parkway Brewing Company, which won Best in Show at the 2024 Virginia Craft Beer Cup, exemplify the quality and creativity celebrated on this occasion.

How to Join the Celebration
To participate, visit a participating brewery on July 14, grab a commemorative pint glass, and enjoy the unique brews and events on offer. Check the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild website or Virginia Tourism Corporation’s craft beer site for a brewery map and event details. Share your experience on social media with #VirginiaBeerDay to join the statewide conversation. For breweries interested in joining, registration is open through Craft Beer Professionals to be part of this historic event. Plan your visit, designate a driver, and toast to Virginia’s craft beer legacy.

History of Virginia Craft Beer
Virginia’s craft beer history traces back to the colonial era, when settlers brewed with local ingredients like corn and molasses, and the first brewery was established in Jamestown by 1607. Beer was a staple, valued for its safety and nutrition, with figures like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson crafting their own brews. After a decline post-Prohibition, the modern craft beer movement began in 1987 with Virginia Beach’s Chesbay Brewing Company, the first microbrewery to win gold at the Great American Beer Festival. The 1994 opening of Legend Brewing Company in Richmond sparked a revival, accelerated by 2012 legislation allowing on-site sales. Today, Virginia boasts over 350 craft breweries, contributing $1.7 billion to the economy and earning accolades at events like the Virginia Craft Beer Cup, cementing its status as a top beer destination.

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