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Beer

Whale Pod Expands with New Custom Print Trays

April 10, 2026 by Dustin Scoggins

image-01

Okemos, Michigan — April 7, 2026 — Whale Pod Shipper, a leader in protective beverage shipping solutions for craft beer, seltzers, ciders, and canned beverages, today announced the launch of its new custom printed can trays. This marks a major expansion beyond traditional shipping into the broader beverage packaging market, helping brands create consistent, eye-catching presentation across every customer touchpoint.

The new custom can trays are designed for multiple uses, including retail display, event merchandising, subscription box packaging, wholesale distribution, and secure transit. Beverage brands can now unify their branding from store shelves and pop-up events to direct-to-consumer (DTC) shipments and unboxing experiences.

“Shipping was just the beginning,” said Jim MacGregor, CEO of Whale Pod Shipper. “Our customers are building brands, not just sending boxes. With custom printed can trays, we’re helping them show up consistently everywhere their product appears—from store shelves, to doorsteps, to pop-up events.”

Key Features of Whale Pod’s Custom Printed Can Trays

Whale Pod’s new trays combine durability with strong visual appeal, turning everyday packaging into a powerful marketing tool. Highlights include:

Full custom printing — featuring logos, brand colors, graphics, and storytelling elements
Retail-ready formats — ideal for shelf display, in-store promotions, and eye-level placement
Event-friendly design — perfect for sampling stations, brand activations, trade shows, and promotions
Sturdy corrugated construction — providing excellent protection during transport while maintaining a premium look for presentation
Compatibility — works with standard 12oz cans as well as sleek/slim cans

These versatile trays support a wide range of beverage categories, including craft beer, hard seltzers, energy drinks, functional beverages, infused drinks, and more. Brands can now deliver a cohesive branded experience whether selling online, in retail stores, or at live events.

Helping Beverage Brands Stand Out in a Competitive Market

As competition in the beverage industry grows, brands are seeking ways to differentiate beyond the liquid inside the can. Whale Pod’s custom printed can trays help achieve:

Stronger shelf presence and visibility in retail environments
Consistent branding across DTC, wholesale, and in-person channels
More engaging displays at events, festivals, and trade shows
Enhanced unboxing experiences that reinforce brand identity

By moving into non-shipping packaging, Whale Pod Shipper is evolving into a full-service partner that supports beverage brands at every stage—from production and shipping to retail and marketing activations.

“We’re excited to support our customers at every stage—whether they’re shipping product, stocking shelves, or showcasing at events,” MacGregor added.
Availability and Ordering

About Whale Pod Shipper

Based in Okemos, Michigan, Whale Pod Shipper specializes in innovative, durable packaging solutions for the beverage industry. Known for its protective shipping boxes for beer, seltzers, ciders, and canned wines, the company is now extending its expertise into retail-ready and event-focused packaging to help brands grow and stand out.

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Filed Under: Beer, breweries, homeberw

Pabst Blue Ribbon Kicks off Grilling Season in Collaboration with Smithfield

April 10, 2026 by Dustin Scoggins

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Smithfield, Va. – April 7, 2026 – Smithfield is firing up summer grilling with the introduction of its bold new premium pork bratwurst lineup. The collection features three flavorful varieties: a limited-time Smithfield Pabst Blue Ribbon Beer Brat, Jalapeño & Cheddar Brat, and Chipotle & Cheddar Brat.
Made with high-quality pork, these new brats deliver juicy texture, a satisfying snap, and big, crave-worthy flavors perfect for effortless backyard barbecues, tailgates, and casual summer meals. Whether served straight off the grill in a toasted bun or paired with classic sides like potato salad and corn on the cob, the new Smithfield brats are designed for easy preparation and sharing with friends and family.

Flavor Highlights of Smithfield’s New Brats

Smithfield Pabst Blue Ribbon Beer Brat (Limited-Time): This nostalgic, all-American option infuses premium pork with the smooth taste of Pabst Blue Ribbon beer. It delivers a juicy bite with classic beer-brat character—ideal alongside an ice-cold PBR.
Jalapeño & Cheddar Brat: A craveable mix of spicy heat and creamy cheddar that brings the perfect balance of kick and richness.
Chipotle & Cheddar Brat: Layers smoky chipotle warmth with rich, melty cheddar for a bold, satisfying flavor profile.

“As the weather warms up, consumers are looking for great food and bold flavors to bring people together,” said Marianne Radley, Managing Director of Marketing for Smithfield Foods. “This new bratwurst lineup, including the innovative Pabst Blue Ribbon Beer Brat, offers premium, easy-to-prepare options that make every backyard get-together more flavorful and fun.”

Easy to Cook and Perfect for Any Occasion
All three varieties are conveniently packaged and versatile enough for grilling, pan-searing, or simmering in beer for extra flavor. They’re ideal for home cooks and grill masters alike.

“Beer and brats have always belonged together. We teamed up with Smithfield to do it right with a seriously good brat,” said Kat Mata, Director of Culture Marketing at Pabst Blue Ribbon. “It’s an easy win for anyone who believes grilling should come with a cold beer.”
Enter to Win the Ultimate Backyard Bratluck Sweepstakes
Grilling enthusiasts can enter the Ultimate Backyard Bratluck Sweepstakes for a chance to win a complete backyard party kit valued at $4,365. Prizes include:

An RTIC 72qt Cooler
A Weber Genesis Grill
A Solo Stove Yukon fire pit
A custom cornhole set
And additional exciting prizes

Where to Buy Smithfield’s New Brats

The new Smithfield bratwurst lineup is available now at major retailers nationwide, including Publix, Walmart, and Kroger stores.
Media Contact: LaForce

About Smithfield

Smithfield is a leading provider of premium, high-quality pork and meat products. Since 1936, the brand has stood for craftsmanship, authenticity, and passion—delivering everything from classic bacon and slow-smoked hams to hand-trimmed ribs, marinated fresh pork, and now bold new bratwursts. All Smithfield products meet the highest standards for flavor, quality, and safety while being proudly produced in the USA. Learn more at smithfield.com and connect on social media.

About Smithfield Foods
Smithfield Foods (Nasdaq: SFD) is one of America’s largest packaged meats and fresh pork companies, with strong farmer partnerships and a diverse brand portfolio that meets global demand for quality protein.

About Pabst Blue Ribbon
Founded in 1844, Pabst Blue Ribbon is the original American lager beer. It continues to connect with communities and empower individuals who forge their own path. Pabst Brewing Company is American-owned and operated.

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Filed Under: Beer, breweries, Sessionable Beer

National Beer Day – April 7th – Happy Days Are Beer Again!

April 6, 2026 by Dow Scoggins

National Beer Day - April 7th
National Beer Day is celebrated in the USA every year on April 7, marking the day that the Cullen–Harrison Act was enacted after having been signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on March 22, 1933. This led to the Eighteenth Amendment being repealed on December 5, 1933, with ratification of the Twenty-first Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. April 6, the day prior to National Beer Day, is known as New Beer’s Eve.

Upon signing the legislation, Roosevelt made his famous remark, “I think this would be a good time for a beer.” The law went into effect on April 7 of that year in states that had enacted their own law allowing such sales. The beer could contain up to 3.2% alcohol by weight compared to the 0.5% limit of the Volstead Act, because 3.2% was considered too low to produce intoxication.
People across the country responded by gathering outside breweries, some beginning the night before. On that first day, 1.5 million barrels of beer were consumed, inspiring the future holiday. Today, April 7 is recognized as National Beer Day and April 6 is known as New Beer’s Eve.

The Cullen-Harrison Act was not the official end of prohibition in the US (that happened on December 5, 1933 when the 21st Amendment was ratified). What the Cullen-Harrison Act did do was redefine an “intoxicating beverage” under the Volstead Act. As such, April 7 is a beer specific holiday and should not be confused with Repeal Day celebrated on December 5.

How Modern National Beer Day Began

The holiday as we know it today was revived in 2009 by Justin Smith from Richmond, Virginia. Inspired by Iceland’s National Beer Day (celebrating the end of prohibition there on March 1), Smith and his friend Mike Connolly learned about the 1933 date and created a Facebook group to promote it. The idea spread quickly, and people began using #NationalBeerDay to celebrate.

It has since gained broader recognition:

  • In 2017, Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe proclaimed it, and it was noted in the Congressional Record.
  • Breweries, bars, and beer enthusiasts now mark the day with specials, tastings, and toasts.

Why It Matters Today

National Beer Day isn’t just about drinking—it’s a reminder of how policy changes can affect everyday life, the economy, and personal freedoms. It helped pave the way for the resurgence of American brewing, which eventually led to today’s vibrant craft beer scene (the U.S. now has thousands of breweries, compared to near-zero legal ones during Prohibition).

The day is typically observed by enjoying a beer (or two), visiting a local brewery, or simply raising a glass to history. April 7 falls on different weekdays each year, but the spirit remains the same.

If you’re celebrating today (or whenever you read this), here’s to legal beer and the lessons from history! 🍺 What’s your go-to beer for the occasion?

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Filed Under: Beer, Beer Festival

Niels Bohr and the Legend of Free Beer: A Danish Tale of Science, Pride, and Pilsner

April 3, 2026 by Dow Scoggins

Niels Bohr and the Legend of Free Beer: A Danish Tale of Science, Pride, and PilsnerNiels Bohr (1885–1962) stands as one of the towering figures of 20th-century physics. The Danish scientist developed the Bohr model of the atom, introducing the revolutionary idea that electrons orbit the nucleus in discrete energy levels—a breakthrough that helped lay the foundations of quantum mechanics. For this work, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1922. His institute in Copenhagen became a magnet for the world’s brightest minds, including Werner Heisenberg and many others who shaped modern physics. Bohr’s influence extended far beyond theory; he played a key role in the early development of quantum theory and later contributed to the Manhattan Project while advocating passionately for peaceful uses of atomic energy.

Yet for many people today, especially those who enjoy a cold beer, Bohr is remembered for something more delightfully mundane: his supposed connection to unlimited free Carlsberg.

The Honorary Residence
The story begins with the Carlsberg brewery’s deep ties to Danish science. Founder Jacob Christian Jacobsen was not only a successful brewer but a passionate supporter of research. In 1875, he established the Carlsberg Laboratory, which made significant contributions to science (including early work on yeast and fermentation). When Jacobsen died in 1887, his will stipulated that his grand neo-classical villa—located right next to the brewery in Valby, Copenhagen—should eventually serve as an honorary residence for Denmark’s most distinguished scientist, chosen by the Royal Danish Academy of Sciences. The Carlsberg Foundation, funded by brewery profits, would cover maintenance and expenses.
Bohr moved into this prestigious “House of Honor” (sometimes called the Carlsberg Honorary Residence) in 1932, a decade after his Nobel win. He lived there with his family until his death in 1962. The mansion was no ordinary home: it was a palatial property where Bohr hosted legendary scientific gatherings, turning it into an informal hub for international physicists. The brewery covered all housing costs, allowing the Nobel laureate to focus entirely on his work without financial worries related to his residence.

The Free Beer Legend
Here is where fact and folklore intertwine. Popular accounts claim that, as part of the perks, Carlsberg installed a direct pipeline from the brewery to Bohr’s house, giving him free beer on tap 24/7. The tale has been repeated in outlets like Forbes, The Guardian, and countless social media posts: imagine a physicist with an endless supply of fresh lager flowing straight into his kitchen. It’s the ultimate reward for scientific greatness—a literal fountain of beer.
The image is charming and perfectly Danish: national pride in a world-renowned scientist, combined with the country’s famous brewing heritage. Bohr reportedly enjoyed the occasional drink, and the story paints him as a relatable genius who balanced profound thoughts on complementarity (his philosophical principle that things can have seemingly contradictory properties) with simple earthly pleasures.

Separating Myth from Reality
Modern historians and archivists have gently corrected the record. According to experts at the Niels Bohr Archive and Carlsberg historians, there was no beer pipeline. The idea appears to be an urban myth, possibly originating as a joke among Bohr’s contemporaries or exaggerated over time. In the 1930s, piping beer over any distance would have caused quality issues (temperature fluctuations, oxidation, and loss of carbonation), making a direct tap impractical and unlikely to deliver the fresh pilsner Danes expect.

The truth is still generous, just less cinematic. As a resident of the honorary house, Bohr was entitled to free deliveries of beer (in kegs, bottles, and crates) from Carlsberg, along with soda, for the rest of his life—from 1932 until 1962. The brewery supplied him “ad libitum” (as much as he wanted), and all household expenses related to the residence were covered. So while he didn’t have a tap on the wall, he effectively enjoyed a lifetime supply of Carlsberg without ever reaching for his wallet.

Bohr’s son Aage (who also won a Nobel Prize in Physics in 1975) and other family members later confirmed the practical arrangement rather than the mythical pipe.

A Symbol of Science and Culture
Whether pipeline or polite deliveries, the story endures because it captures something wonderful: a society that deeply valued both scientific achievement and the simple joys of life. Denmark’s Carlsberg Foundation has long supported research, and honoring Bohr in this way reflected genuine national appreciation. The brewery itself benefited from the association—linking its brand to one of the greatest minds of the era.

Bohr’s time in the house coincided with turbulent years: the rise of quantum mechanics, World War II (during which he fled Nazi-occupied Denmark), and the postwar atomic age. Through it all, the residence provided stability and a space for reflection. Visitors described lively discussions that blended physics, philosophy, and yes, perhaps the occasional toast with a Carlsberg.

Today, the former honorary residence operates as part of the Carlsberg Academy, continuing Jacobsen’s vision of bridging science and culture. The “free beer” anecdote remains a favorite icebreaker in physics lectures and bar conversations alike—a reminder that even the most profound thinkers were human.

In the end, Niels Bohr didn’t need a magical pipeline to make his mark on the world. But the legend of endless Carlsberg serves as a delightful footnote: proof that great science and good beer have always gone hand in hand in Denmark. Skål to that.

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Filed Under: Beer, breweries

Oskar Blues Release New Dales IPA Mix Pack and More

March 27, 2026 by Dustin Scoggins

LONGMONT, CO –  Oskar Blues Brewery, the trailblazing craft brewery that launched the craft-beer-in-a-can revolution with Dale’s Pale Ale, is expanding its portfolio this month with two bold new offerings: the Dale’s IPA Mix Pack, a new year-round variety pack, and Neon Rodeo, a limited-release slightly sour fruited ale.

When Oskar Blues began hand-canning Dale’s Pale Ale in 2002, the industry scoffed — until they tried it. That pioneering move forever changed how craft beer is packaged and consumed. Today, the brewery continues that boundary-pushing spirit with the Dale’s IPA Mix Pack, which brings together three fan-favorite hop bombs in one convenient box: Dale’s Easy IPA (a crisp 4.9% session-style IPA bursting with tropical and citrus notes), Dale’s American IPA (a classic West Coast-style with bright citrus and pine), and Dale’s Double IPA (a balanced, intensely hop-forward Imperial IPA). The 12-can pack is designed for easy sharing and keeping the good times flowing.

Joining the lineup is Neon Rodeo, Oskar Blues’ first new packaged beer in several years. Previously available only on draft at the Brevard, NC taproom, this bright, slightly sour fruited ale combines zesty lime and refreshing raspberry with a touch of tartness for a crisp, juicy, and highly drinkable experience. At approximately 4.5% ABV, Neon Rodeo is perfect for the barstool, backyard, or beach — day or night.

“Dale’s has always been about hops and approachability — crushable beers that deliver serious flavor,” said Aaron Baker, Brand Director for Oskar Blues Brewery. “The IPA Mix Pack brings together three of our most-loved IPAs, making it a natural extension of the Dale’s family. Neon Rodeo has been a taproom favorite for years. It’s bright, playfully tart, and a little unexpected — exactly what fans have come to expect from us.”

The Dale’s IPA Mix Pack is shipping to select states this month and will be available year-round. Neon Rodeo will be available nationally from March through July in 6-packs of 12-oz cans and on draft.

About Oskar Blues Brewery

Founded by Dale Katechis in 1997 in Lyons, Colorado, Oskar Blues Brewery pioneered the craft-beer-in-a-can movement with its flagship Dale’s Pale Ale. Today, the brewery operates facilities in Colorado and North Carolina and distributes its beers across the United States and in many countries worldwide. Oskar Blues is part of Monster Brewing Company, a total beverage company dedicated to crafting superior-quality, great-tasting beverages for every occasion.

About Monster Brewing Company

Monster Brewing Company, formerly known as CANarchy Craft Brewery Collective, was founded in 2015 as a disruptive collective of craft breweries. Its portfolio includes iconic brands such as Jai Alai IPA, Dale’s Pale Ale, Dallas Blonde, Wild Basin hard seltzers, and flavored malt beverages including The Beast Unleashed and Nasty Beast Hard Tea. The company also distributes Monster Tour Water and Revitalyte hydration beverages.

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Filed Under: Beer, breweries

Odell Brewing Continues Decades of IPA Innovation with the Launch of MDRN IPA

March 27, 2026 by Dustin Scoggins

Odell

Fort Collins, CO – Odell Brewing Company, a trailblazer in American craft beer since 1989, today announced the release of MDRN IPA — a bright, clean, and explosively aromatic modern India Pale Ale that delivers vibrant citrus and juicy hop character with a smooth, highly drinkable finish.

Building on decades of hop-forward innovation that began with its flagship Odell IPA — the only American-style IPA to earn Gold medals at both the Great American Beer Festival and World Beer Cup — Odell continues to evolve the category. The brewery’s expanded IPA lineup, which includes fan favorites like Hazer Tag and Mountain Standard, has consistently pushed the boundaries of aroma, flavor, and drinkability.

“Our hop partnerships go back decades,” said Brendan McGivney, Odell Brewing’s COO. “Those long-standing relationships give us access to cutting-edge hop varieties and processing techniques, allowing us to keep redefining what an IPA can be. MDRN IPA is the next evolution in that journey.”

Developed by Odell’s RaD Team in close collaboration with leading hop partners, MDRN IPA features a custom blend of Yakima Valley-grown HBC 638 Hyperboost, CRYO Krush, and Mosaic, along with an experimental hop from Clayton Farms in New Zealand. At 5.8% ABV and 30 IBU, the beer pours a light straw color and bursts with complex notes of citrus, melon, and stone fruit. On the palate, juicy orange zest and white grapefruit shine through, finishing crisp and refreshingly clean.

MDRN IPA is now available in six-packs and on draft throughout Odell Brewing’s distribution network, as well as at the brewery’s taprooms in Fort Collins and Denver.

About Odell Brewing

Odell Brewing is one of the largest independent, employee-owned craft breweries in the United States. Founded in 1989 by the Odell family in Fort Collins, Colorado, the brewery has built a culture rooted in family, collaboration, and a deep passion for quality beer. Committed to independence and innovation, Odell creates handcrafted, beer-centric brews while delivering exceptional service to customers and making meaningful contributions to its co-workers and community through outreach and charitable programs.

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Filed Under: Beer, breweries

BevNomad Launches New Beer Series with Motörhead

March 27, 2026 by Dustin Scoggins

 

BevNomad

Los Angeles, CA – It’s louder, bolder, and back for good. BevNomad today announced the revival of Road Crew, a new limited-edition beer collaboration with Motörhead, one of rock ‘n’ roll’s most influential and uncompromising bands.

The partnership launches an ongoing quarterly series of collectible cans that fuse bold, easy-drinking beer with the band’s iconic album artwork. Designed for collectors, lifelong fans, and craft beer enthusiasts alike, each release transforms legendary Motörhead visuals into limited-edition cans that are as much about the art as the beer inside.

“Motörhead has always stood for authenticity, power, and doing things loud,” said Steve Kwapil, CEO of BevNomad. “This album art-inspired series captures that same rebellious spirit — giving fans a beer they can crack open today and a collectible piece they’ll hold onto for years to come.”

“This collaboration is a true tribute to Motörhead’s legacy and the fans who keep the fire burning,” said Todd Singerman, Motörhead’s longtime manager. “Lemmy was fiercely involved in every aspect of the band’s art, insisting it carried the raw power of the music. Seeing icons like the War-Pig literally in the hands of loyal fans is something worth raising a glass to.”

The series kicks off with Ace of Spades as Release #1 and The World Is Yours as Release #2. Both cans are scheduled to drop in March 2026, with a special launch event at the legendary Rainbow Bar and Grill in West Hollywood — a historic rock landmark deeply tied to the band’s history.

Additional collectible releases, each tied to historically significant Motörhead artwork, will roll out throughout 2026 and beyond. Every Road Crew release will include a custom Spotify playlist featuring classic Motörhead tracks, powerful covers by other artists, and podcasts exploring the band’s storied history.

About BevNomad

BevNomad was founded in 2022 and is headquartered in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area. The company emerged as a distributor-centric beverage accelerator with a mission to streamline the entry and growth of emerging and international beverage brands into the U.S. market. Built by a leadership team—including CEO Steve Kwapil—that brings together over 100 years of combined experience in beverage supply chain, national distribution, and brand building, BevNomad focuses on curating high-quality craft beers, premium spirits, RTDs, wine, cordials, and innovative categories like hemp-derived THC drinks.

Since its launch, the company has rapidly expanded its portfolio through strategic partnerships, such as introducing Ireland’s award-winning White Hag brewery to U.S. shelves in early 2025 and collaborating with iconic rock band Motörhead on whiskeys and the Road Crew beer series. By handling production, compliance, distribution, and marketing, BevNomad helps both domestic and global brands achieve scalable, profitable operations while delivering fresh, consumer-driven programs to distributors and retailers across the country.

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Filed Under: Beer, breweries

Pliny the Younger 2026 Has Landed: The World’s Most Famous Triple IPA is Back for Its 22nd Annual Release!

March 26, 2026 by Dow Scoggins


If you’re a craft beer lover, you’ve probably heard the legends: lines snaking around the block, pilgrims flying in from across the country, and grown adults treating a pint like it’s the Super Bowl of hops. Welcome back, Pliny the Younger — Russian River Brewing Company’s legendary triple IPA is pouring once again at their Santa Rosa and Windsor brewpubs from March 20 through April 2, 2026.

This marks the 22nd annual brewery-only release of one of the most celebrated (and chased) beers in the world. First brewed quietly in the slow winter months of 2005 as a bolder, hoppier big brother to the already iconic Pliny the Elder, Younger quickly outgrew its low-key origins. By 2010, it had become a full-blown phenomenon that turns Sonoma County into a craft beer mecca every spring.

What Makes Pliny the Younger So Special?
At 10.25% ABV, this isn’t your sessionable lawnmower beer. It’s a triple IPA — think massive hop character layered over a solid malt backbone that somehow keeps everything dangerously drinkable. The 2026 batch features a powerhouse hop lineup: Simcoe, Amarillo, Tangier, Citra, Mosaic, Nectaron, and Warrior.
Expect bold notes of citrus, stone fruit, pine, and lychee, with that signature fresh-hop aroma and flavor that Russian River is famous for. The beer pours with a beautiful golden hue, delivers a resinous punch up front, and finishes with a clean, hop-forward bite that makes you want to order another (responsibly, of course).
Fans often describe it as the ultimate expression of what a triple IPA can be: big, balanced, aromatic, and memorable. Vinnie Cilurzo and the Russian River team continue to tweak the recipe each year, incorporating new hop varieties while staying true to the beer’s soul.

How to Get Your Hands on Pliny the Younger in 2026

Good news for locals and dedicated travelers: this release is brewery-exclusive. You won’t find it online or in stores — you have to go to the source.
Where: Russian River Brewing Company in Santa Rosa (725 Fourth St.) and Windsor (700 Mitchell Lane)
When: Daily from March 20 to April 2, 2026, open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (or until they run out of the day’s allocation)
Formats: On tap by the pint (and likely smaller pours for the wise) and in bottles to go (limited per person, brewery-only — no online sales or shipping)

Pro tip: Arrive early if you want bottles or to beat the crowds, especially on opening weekend. Rain was in the forecast for the first weekend, so pack an umbrella and your patience — the vibe is part festival, part family reunion for many regulars.

The Pliny Pilgrimage: More Than Just a Beer
What started as a quiet winter seasonal has evolved into an economic boost for Sonoma County and a bucket-list event for beer enthusiasts. People reconnect with old friends, make new ones, and share stories over glasses of liquid gold. It’s “just like Christmas,” as one local reporter put it, with the first sip feeling like unwrapping the best present of the year.
Whether you’re a first-timer lining up for your inaugural taste or a veteran who marks their calendar every year, the Pliny the Younger release is pure craft beer joy. It’s a celebration of creativity, community, and the simple pleasure of an exceptionally well-made beer.

Planning Your Visit?
Check the official Russian River website for the latest details and merch drops (this year’s Pliny-themed gear is already available online).
Pair your Younger with great food from the brewpub menu — the rich, hoppy profile stands up beautifully to bold flavors.
Drink responsibly and enjoy fresh — Younger is best when it’s cold and consumed soon after release for peak hop aroma.

If you’re anywhere near Northern California this spring, do yourself a favor and make the trip. Pliny the Younger isn’t just a beer; it’s a moment.
Cheers to the Cilurzo family and the Russian River team for another outstanding batch. See you in the line — I’ll be the one with the ridiculous grin after the first sip.

More about Russian River Brewing
Russian River Brewing Company is a cornerstone of American craft beer, renowned for pushing the boundaries of hop-forward IPAs and innovative sour ales from its roots in California’s Sonoma County. Founded in 1997 by Korbel Champagne Cellars in Guerneville, the brewery hired Vinnie Cilurzo as its brewmaster. Cilurzo, already a trailblazer who crafted one of the earliest commercial double IPAs at Blind Pig Brewing in 1994, brought his passion for bold flavors to Russian River. When Korbel exited the beer business in 2003, Vinnie and his wife Natalie acquired the rights to the name, recipes, and beers, reopening the operation in Santa Rosa in 2004. Today, with brewpubs in Santa Rosa and Windsor, Russian River continues to thrive as a family-run icon, blending Vinnie’s inventive spirit with a focus on quality and experimentation.

What truly sets Russian River Brewing apart is its legendary lineup of beers that have shaped modern craft culture. Pliny the Elder, first brewed in 1999 and named after the Roman naturalist who referenced hops, remains its flagship double IPA—a piney, citrusy powerhouse packed with hops that helped popularize the imperial IPA style across the U.S. Even more sought-after is Pliny the Younger, the intensely hopped triple IPA released annually as a limited winter seasonal, drawing devoted fans who line up for its explosive aroma and balanced bitterness. Beyond the Plinys, the brewery excels in Belgian-inspired and barrel-aged sours like Consecration and Beatification, which showcase wild yeast, bacteria, and oak aging for complex, tart profiles. With year-round favorites like Blind Pig IPA and STS Pils, plus innovative limited releases, Russian River delivers beers that reward both hop heads and sour enthusiasts alike—making every visit or bottle a celebration of California craft brewing at its finest.

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Filed Under: Beer, Beer Festival

Top 10 Maibocks Brewed in America – 2026

March 26, 2026 by Dow Scoggins

Top 10 Maibocks Brewed in America

Top 10 Maibock Lagers Brewed in America 
This 2026 Top Ten List of Maibocks is from the results of the U.S. Open Beer Championship, Great American Beer Festival, and World Beer Cup.  Maibock, also known as Heller Bock or “May Bock,” is a classic German-style lager that celebrates springtime with its elegant balance of rich malt and subtle hop character. It pours a beautiful, deep gold to light amber color with excellent clarity and a large, creamy white head that lingers nicely. On the aroma and flavor, expect a prominent malty profile featuring bready, lightly toasted, and slightly sweet notes from quality continental malts like Pilsner, Vienna, and Munich—without any heavy caramel or roast flavors. Noble hops add a gentle, spicy or floral touch with moderate bitterness, keeping things refreshing rather than sweet or cloying. Typically around 6–7.5% ABV, it has a smooth, medium-to-full body, clean lager fermentation, and a crisp, satisfying finish that makes it highly drinkable for a stronger beer. Perfect for pairing with hearty foods or simply enjoying on a sunny afternoon!

1. Skoolhouse Bock – Moontown Brewing Company – Indiana
2. Maibock – Guilford Hall – Brewery – Maryland
3. Heller Bock – Cranky Sam Brewing – Montana
4. Not Yours  Maibock – Kros Strain Brewing – Nebraska
5. Maibock – Venn Brewing Company – Minnesota
6. Heller Bock – Goldfinger Brewing Company – Illinois
7. Johann Sebastian Bock Maibock – Blackbird Brewery – North Carolina
8. Maibock – Narrow Gauge Brewing – Missouri
9. Lenz Bock – Heater Allen Brewing – Oregon
10. Maypole – Grimm Artisanal Ales – New York

Evolution of the “Pale” Maibock Style (18th–19th Centuries)
Early bocks were generally darker and maltier. The distinctly pale Maibock—lighter in color, brighter, and more hopped—emerged as pale malts became widely available in the mid-to-late 19th century alongside the rise of pale lagers like Pilsner and Munich Helles. Munich brewers adapted traditional bock techniques (often including decoction mashing) with paler base malts (Pilsner, Vienna, Munich) to create a transitional spring beer.

Hofbräuhaus is widely credited as the originator of the modern Maibock style, which they still brew using a formula tracing back to Pichler’s 1614 version (pale copper hue, malty with caramel hints).

Top 10 Beers in America – Ales  Lagers  Specialty  Barrel Aged 

Filed Under: Beer, Beer Competition

American Rebel Light Beer Expands into West Virginia with New Partnership with Jefferson Distributing

March 24, 2026 by Dustin Scoggins

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Nashville, TN — February 23, 2026 — American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB), the company behind American Rebel Light Beer — America’s Patriotic Brand — has signed a distribution agreement with Jefferson Distributing Company to launch the beer in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle.

The agreement, executed on February 10, 2026, marks American Rebel Light Beer’s first distributor footprint in the state of West Virginia. Jefferson Distributing, a respected wholesaler founded in 1960 and based in Charles Town, will introduce the brand across Jefferson, Morgan, and Berkeley counties, serving independent retailers, regional chains, and on-premise accounts.

New State Expansion: First distribution in West Virginia (Eastern Panhandle)
Distribution-First Strategy: A strong “density-builder” partner to grow availability market by market
Top-Tier Partner: Authorized Anheuser-Busch wholesaler with nearly 400 accounts, close to 1 million cases delivered annually, and over 65% market share in its territory

Retail & On-Premise Focus: High-frequency routes covering independents, chains, restaurants, and bars
Targeted Rollout: Spring 2026, pending final production scheduling and state approvals

“West Virginia is a values market — hard work, pride in community, and love of country — and that lines up perfectly with who we are,” said Andy Ross, CEO of American Rebel Holdings, Inc. “Jefferson is a top-tier Anheuser-Busch network wholesaler with the routes, relationships, and execution discipline that make brands succeed in the cooler. This partnership helps us build real shelf presence and repeat purchase, one market at a time.”

Jefferson Distributing brings deep local roots and operational excellence to the partnership. The wholesaler operates from Charles Town with more than 30 full-time employees, climate-controlled storage, and a team trained to Cicerone standards. Known for blending major brands with craft and specialty offerings, Jefferson emphasizes professionalism, community involvement, and consistent service across the Eastern Panhandle.

“We’re excited to bring American Rebel Light Beer to West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle with Jefferson Distributing,” said Todd Porter, President of American Rebel Beverage. “This partnership allows us to connect authentically with local retailers, community organizations, and event partners — from hometown independents to college venues — while gathering real feedback and building sustained availability.”
What’s in the Can: A Better-for-You Premium Light Lager

American Rebel Light Beer is a crisp, clean, premium domestic light lager brewed for beer drinkers who want full flavor with a lighter profile and patriotic spirit. Key specs include:

110 calories per 12 oz
4g carbs per 12 oz
4.2% ABV
100% all-malt recipe — no adjuncts, corn syrups, or rice extracts
Cold, extended fermentation for smooth taste and brilliant clarity

Since its launch, American Rebel Light Beer has expanded into 18 states through a Distributor-First strategy focused on strong wholesaler partnerships. The brand is positioned as America’s Patriotic, God-Fearing, Constitution-Loving, National Anthem-Singing, Stand-Your-Ground Beer — celebrating freedom, life, liberty, and the American Dream.

Retailers and on-premise operators in the Eastern Panhandle interested in carrying American Rebel Light Beer should contact Jefferson Distributing’s sales team. POS materials, sampling kits, and co-op marketing support will be available.

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

Filed Under: Beer

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