Beer

Hi-Wire Brewing Rises Again After Tropical Storm Helene

May 10, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Eight months after Tropical Storm Helene unleashed 15 feet of floodwater on Hi-Wire Brewing’s Beer Garden and Distribution Center, the Asheville-based brewery proudly announces the reopening of its flagship location at 284 Lyman St. The community is invited to a grand reopening celebration from noon to 9 p.m. on May 24, 2025.

The event will pulse with live music, food trucks, visual performers, and a makers’ market showcasing local artists and vendors. Guests can enjoy Hi-Wire’s full lineup: 24 draft beers, including three silver-medal World Beer Cup winners, specialty cocktails, slushies, and 16-ounce canned beers for purchase to-go.

“After the storm, we faced uncertainty about reopening our River Arts District facility,” said Bryna Frosaker, co-owner of Hi-Wire. “The overwhelming support from our community over these past eight months has been humbling. We hope our reopening helps fuel the RAD’s recovery and encourages visitors to support the artists and businesses that make this district vibrant.”

Located steps from the French Broad River, Hi-Wire’s facility bore the brunt of Helene’s catastrophic floods. Raging waters scattered shipping containers in the beer garden and blanketed the brewery in toxic mud. The toll was immense: 1.3 million unfilled cans, 200,000 filled cans, merchandise, offices, and the taproom were lost. Neighboring businesses and buildings were swept away, amplifying the community’s grief.

To honor the River Arts District’s rebirth, Hi-Wire commissioned local artist XCVI to create a mural on a surviving shipping container in the Beer Garden. The artwork depicts Hi-Wire’s tightrope walker, reimagined as a symbol of resilience, striding from turbulent waters toward a blooming dogwood tree—North Carolina’s state tree—rooted in stone against a mountain backdrop. “The dogwood represents the strength of Western North Carolina and our state,” XCVI said. “In the wake of the hurricane, neighboring communities rallied to support us. Resilience and care are in our roots.”

About Hi-Wire Brewing

Hi-Wire Brewing, founded in 2013 in Asheville, North Carolina, is a craft brewery known for its approachable yet innovative beers and vibrant taproom experiences. With its flagship location in the River Arts District (RAD), Hi-Wire has become a cornerstone of Asheville’s craft beer scene, offering a diverse range of lagers, IPAs, and specialty brews. The brewery’s commitment to quality has earned it multiple awards, including three silver medals at the World Beer Cup. Beyond its RAD headquarters, Hi-Wire operates additional taprooms in Asheville, Durham, and other cities across the Southeast, alongside a robust distribution network. Its iconic tightrope walker logo embodies the balance of tradition and creativity that defines the brand.

Hi-Wire’s history is one of growth and resilience. Starting as a small operation, it expanded its RAD facility into a production hub and lively beer garden before Tropical Storm Helene devastated the site in September 2024. The storm’s destruction tested the brewery’s resolve, but community support and a determined rebuilding effort enabled its triumphant return. Hi-Wire’s reopening in May 2025 not only marks a milestone for the company but also symbolizes the broader recovery of the RAD, reinforcing the brewery’s role as a cultural and economic anchor in Western North Carolina.

Looking for a Beer Festival? Here are the Top 10 Beer Festivals in America plus a few more – CLICK HERE.

2025 Brewers Cup of California Crowns the State’s Beer Champs!

May 8, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Sacramento, California – Hold onto your pint glasses! The 2025 Brewers Cup of California, hosted by the Sacramento Area Brewers Guild with a high-five from Craftmaster Stainless and California’s top brewers guilds, just dropped the mic on the state’s best beers at a rockin’ awards bash at Sacramento’s Crest Theatre. Get ready to toast the winners!

Record-Breaking Beer Bonanza
This year’s Brewers Cup was a hoppy extravaganza, with a jaw-dropping 1,360 entries from 203 independent California craft breweries—the biggest turnout yet! Over 60 expert judges sipped, swirled, and awarded Gold, Silver, and Bronze across 64 style categories, shining a spotlight on the Golden State’s brewing brilliance.

Cheers to the Big Winners!
Admiral Maltings handed the coveted Best in Show to Sacramento’s Geisthaus Brewing Company for their crisp, aromatic Progenitor Kellerbier—a beer that’s basically a love letter to your taste buds. Meanwhile, Morgan Territory Brewing from Tracy snagged Brewery of the Year (their second crown after 2023), proving they’re a force to be reckoned with. The Los Angeles County Brewers Guild took home Guild of the Year for their members’ medal-hauling swagger.

Hoppy Highlights: Fan-Favorite Styles
The competition got fierce in the most-entered categories! For Hazy India Pale Ale, Eureka Brewing Company’s “Just a Phaze” nabbed Gold, followed by Ambitious Ales’ “Professional Human Being” (Silver) and TapRoom Brewing Company’s “North Park Haze” (Bronze). In American IPAs, Topa Topa Brewing Co.’s “We Love L.A.” scored Gold, with Trademark Brewing’s “Codebreaker” (Silver) and Auburn Alehouse’s “Cross Rut IPA” (Bronze) rounding out the podium.

A Toast to a Craft Beer Legend
The Brewers Cup honored Dr. Patrick Ting, PhD, as the 2025 Craft Beer Pioneer. The late hop scientist, who developed the iconic Citra hop at Miller Coors, forever changed craft beer. His legacy lives on in every juicy, citrusy sip!

Brewmaster’s High-Five
“We’re stoked to see so many beers in the ring this year—it’s our biggest yet!” says David Weiss, President of the Sacramento Area Brewers Guild and Head Brewer at Blue Note Brewing. “This competition is all about celebrating the passion, creativity, and hustle of California’s craft brewers. Cheers to them!”

Where to Sip the Winners
Craving a taste of the champs? Hunt down these award-winning brews at taprooms, bars, and retailers across California. For the full list of winners, check out brewerscupofca.com/2025-winners. Pro tip: Join the beer party during Sacramento Beer Week, running through May 4!

About the Brewers Cup of California
Launched in 2019 by the Sacramento Area Brewers Guild, the Brewers Cup of California is the ultimate showdown for the state’s independent craft breweries. With support from guilds like Bay Area, Central Coast, Inland Empire, Los Angeles County, Orange County, and San Diego, plus sponsors Craftmaster Stainless, Admiral Maltings, and Berkeley Yeast, this competition celebrates innovation and quality. Held in 2019, 2021, 2023, 2024, and 2025, it’s a must-watch for beer lovers. Learn more at brewerscupofca.com.

Brewers Cup of California Medal Winners

Table 1: Altbier
1st – Cerveceria Del Pueblo – Antigua
2nd – Lodi Beer Company – Anniversary Alt Bier
3rd – Black Hammer Brewing Company – Ctrl Alt Repeat

Table 2: American IPAs (138 Entries)
1st – Auburn Alehouse – Cross Rut IPA
2nd – Trademark Brewing – Codebreaker
3rd – Topa Topa Brewing Co. – We Love LA
HM – Three Mile Brewing Company – Angry Goat

Table 3: American Wheat/Rye (9 Entries)
1st – Canyon Lakes Brewery – Walk Or Ryed?
2nd – Stone Church Brewing – Eucharist Wheat
3rd – Claremont Craft Ales – Jacaranda
HM – Trinity County Brewing Company – Hayfork Hefeweizen

Table 4: American-Style Amber Lagers (14 Entries)
1st – Wagon Wheel Brewing Company – Elbow Bender
2nd – Eureka Brewing Company – Tacos & Beer
3rd – June Lake Brewing – Chingona Amber Lager

Table 5: American-Style Amber/Red Ale (28 Entries)
1st – Lincoln Beer Company – Railsplitter
2nd – Far Field Brewing Company – INFRARED
3rd – Half Moon Bay Brewing Company – Mavericks Amber Ale

Table 6: American-Style Brown Ale (15 Entries)
1st – Hodad’s Brewing Company – Throwback
2nd – Three Mile Brewing Company – Barkada
3rd – Wild Fields Brewhouse – Three Bridges

Table 7: American-Style Cream Ale or Lager (21 Entries)
1st – Morgan Territory Brewing – Snap Shot
2nd – Del Cielo Brewing – Orale – American-Style
3rd – Malibu Brewing Company – Sand And Sea Mexican Lager

Table 8: American-Style Dark/Amber Lager (9 Entries)
1st – Bottle Logic Brewing – LageritHM
2nd – Porchlight Brewing – Oktoberbeast
3rd – Touchstone Brewing Company – Oktoberbeast

Table 9: American-Style Lagers (49 Entries)
1st – Epidemic Ales – Lager At World’s End
2nd – Creature Comforts Brewing Co. – Los Angeles – Pils, Baby!
3rd – Auburn Alehouse – Gold Country Pilsner

Table 10: American-Style Light Lager (28 Entries)
1st – San Fernando Brewing Company – Del Valle Lager
2nd – Bright Spark Brewing – Game Day Lager
3rd – Lucky Luke Brewing Co. – Lucky Light

Table 11: American-Style Pale Ales (47 Entries)
1st – Common Space Brewery – Good Signs
2nd – Fieldwork Brewing Company – Hellflower
3rd – Angel City Brewery – IPA
HM – Puesto Cerveceria – Puesto IPA

Table 12: American-Style Stout/Black Ales (12 Entries)
1st – Arts District Brewing Company – Norm
2nd – Riip Beer Company – Strategic Arrangement
3rd – Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co – Big Cone

Table 13: American-Style Strong Ales (22 Entries)
1st – Lincoln Beer Company – Vanilla Carousel
2nd – Sutter Buttes Brewing Co. Inc. – Moon Sabbat
3rd – Five Point Five Brewing Co. – Tank Farm

Table 14: Belgian Style Pale Beers (17 Entries)
1st – Apogee Brewing Co. – Aurora
2nd – ISM Brewing – Stable Trestles
3rd – Paperback Brewing – Surrealist

Table 15: Belgian-Style Strong Ales (28 Entries)
1st – Trinity County Brewing Company – Anniversary 4
2nd – Strong Church – Trinity
3rd – Apogee Brewing Co. – Monks In Space

Table 16: Bocks (15 Entries)
1st – Feather Falls Brewing Company – Doppel Down
2nd – Morgan Territory Brewing – Lubricator
3rd – Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. – Frozen Goat

Table 17: Bohemian-Style Pilsener (24 Entries)
1st – Jackrabbit Brewing Co. – Dun’ Workin’
2nd – Alaro Craft Brewery – La Boheme
3rd – FiftyFifty Brewing Company – Tahoe Pilz

Table 18: British Stouts (17 Entries)
1st – Morgan Territory Brewing – Grinding Stone
2nd – Bravery Brewing – Korova
3rd – Feather Falls Brewing Company – Volcano Mudslide

Table 19: British Strong Beers (18 Entries)
1st – Morgan Territory Brewing – Old Diablo
2nd – San Fernando Brewing Company – O’Melveny Red Ale
3rd – North Coast Brewing Co. – Old Stock Ale

Table 20: Chocolate Beers (10 Entries)
1st – Burning Barrel Brewing Company – Suffered From The Start
2nd – TapRoom Beer Company – The Chocolate Klub
3rd – Altar Society Brewing Company – Darkest Rituals

Table 21: Coffee-Flavored Beer (24 Entries)
1st – Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. – Cafe Stagecoach
2nd – Etna Brewing Co. – Yakauccino Coffee Vanilla Stout
3rd – Pizza Port – San Clemente – Dusk Til Dawn

Table 22: Dessert Stout (11 Entries)
1st – Moksa Brewing Company – Happy Almonds
2nd – Moksa Brewing Company – Salutations
3rd – Chapman Crafted Beer Company – Crafted Campfire

Table 23: English-Style Brown Ale (9 Entries)
1st – Feather Falls Brewing Company – Sir Charles
2nd – Lodi Beer Company – School Street Brown Ale
3rd – Trinity County Brewing Company – Ol’ Snickelfritz

Table 24: English-Style Milds and Bitters/IPA (21 Entries)
1st – Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. – Hoppy Poppy
2nd – Amador Brewing Company – Dirty Blonde
3rd – Bravery Brewing – Brighton ESB

Table 25: European-Style Dark/Munchner Dunkel (9 Entries)
1st – Movement Brewing Co. – Walter Sobczech
2nd – Pond Farm Brewing Co. – Daily Brot
3rd – Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. – I Dunkeled In My Pants

Table 26: Experimental Beer (6 Entries)
1st – Malibu Brewing Co. – Canyon Rose’ Rice Lager
2nd – Solorio Brewing Company – Cheeky Peach Crumble

Table 27: Experimental India Pale Ale (8 Entries)
1st – Berryessa Brewing Co. – Buddha’s Hand IPA
2nd – Fieldwork Brewing Company – Picked Last
3rd – Mike Hess Brewing Company – Lone Pine IPA

Table 28: Field Beer (6 Entries)
1st – Norco Brewing Co. – Pioneer
2nd – Hop Dogma Brewing Company – Cucumber Rocket Surgery
3rd – Lake Arrowhead Brewing Company – Srawberry Peak

Table 29: Fruit Beer (32 Entries)
1st – Angel City Brewery – Grenache Grisette
2nd – Cerveceria Del Pueblo – Melosa
3rd – Bravery Brewing – Lime Fatboys Cerveza

Table 30: German Helles/Export (19 Entries)
1st – Geisthaus Brewing Company – Hallowed
2nd – Morgan territory Brewing Company – The Cushman
3rd – Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro – Carmel – Servus!

Table 31: German-Style Pilsener (31 Entries)
1st – Long Beach Beer Labs – Klassisch Pils
2nd – Transmission Brewing – Downshift
3rd – Two Ravens Brewery – Longship

Table 32: German-Style Wheat/Rye (15 Entries)
1st – Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro – Carmel – Bistro Hef
2nd – standard deviant brewing – Hefeweizen
3rd – Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro – Carmel – Dunkelweizen

Table 33: Golden or Blonde Ale (34 Entries)
1st – Crooked Lane Brewing Co. – Hammock Time
2nd – Aftershock Brewing Company – Love Wave
3rd – Long Beach Beer Labs – Blonde

Table 34: Gose (12 Entries)
1st – MachineHead Brewing Co. – Punk Fuzz
2nd – San Francisco Brewing Company – Golden Gate Gose
3rd – Old Stump Brewing Co. – Raspberry Lemonade Gose

Table 35: Hard Kombucha (3 Entries)
1st – Midscape Fermentations – Free Spirit
2nd – Midscape Fermentations – The Starman
3rd – Midscape Fermentations – Dream Big

Table 36: Hard Seltzer (34 Entries)
1st – Crow and Wolf Brewing – Dark Horse
2nd – Crow and Wolf Brewing – Cosmonaut
3rd – DarkHeart Brewing Citrus Heights – Krakens Klau Lavender Lemondrop Beverage

Table 37: Hazy IPA (67 Entries)
1st – Eureka Brewing Company – Just A Phaze
2nd – Ambitions Ales – Professional Human Being
3rd – TapRoom Beer Company – North Park Haze
HM – San Diego Brewing Company – San Diego Hazy IPA

Table 38: Hazy Pale Ales (34 Entries)
1st – CAPO Craft – Stanton Location – Hazy IPA
2nd – Tarantula Hill Brewing Co. – Liquid Candy
3rd – Flatland Brewing Company – Psychic Burden

Table 39: Herb and Spice Beer (15 Entries)
1st – Strike Brewing Company – Churro Beer
2nd – Unsung Brewing Company LLC – The Pickler
3rd – LogOff Brewing – Divide By Zero r

Table 40: Historical (15 Entries)
1st – Ten Mile Brewing – Hidden Hollow
2nd – Brewjeria Company – Californio
3rd – Fruition Brewing – Alpino A Maritima

Table 41: Honey Beer (10 Entries)
1st – TrustedGut – Blonde Ale With Notes of Honey
2nd – Old Stump Brewing Co. – Not Tonight Honey
3rd – Mike Hess Brewing Company – EZ Drankin

Table 42: Imperial Hazy IPA (21 Entries)
1st – Pure Project – Double Dust
2nd – Moksa Brewing Company – Light The Beam
3rd – Humble Sea Brewery – Hop Fusion 2.0

Table 43: Imperial IPA (38 Entries)
1st – Claremont Craft Ales – Triple IPA
2nd – Morgan Territory Brewing – HopTomic
3rd – Ghost Town Brewing – Nose Goblin

Table 44: India Pale Lagers (17 Entries)
1st – Riip Beer Company – Alt Aboard
2nd – Ghost Town Brewing – Cave Dweller
3rd – Topa Topa Brewing Co. – KQ Express

Table 45: International Lagers (28 Entries)
1st – Solorio Brewing Company – GOT SOL?
2nd – Ten Mile Brewing – Koji
3rd – Euryale Brewing Co. – Madre Medusa Mexican Lager

Table 46: International Pale Ales (34 Entries)
1st – Tustin Brewing Co. – Lolly Trolly
2nd – Tarantula Hill Brewing Co. – Call Day
3rd – ISM Brewing – Chepedelic

Table 47: International-Style Pilsener (26 Entries)
1st – Tarantula Hill Brewing Co. – Feel The Flow
2nd – LogOff Brewing – Birra Stallone
3rd – ROM Beer Company – When in ROM

Table 48: Irish Stouts (13 Entries)
1st – Feather Falls Brewing Co. – Celtic Dream
2nd – True Symmetry Brewing Co. – Tommy’s 34
3rd – Danville Brewing Company – Lucky Four Leaf

Table 49: Irish-Style Red Ale (20 Entries)
1st – Pizza Port Co. – Carlsbad Village – Irish Hello
2nd – CAPO Craft – Stanton Location – Irish Red
3rd – Promised Land Beer – Slainte Red

Table 50: Kellerbiers (6 Entries)
1st – Geisthaus Brewing Company – Progenitor
2nd – Fruition Brewing – Slip
3rd – Ketch Brewing – Dr. Billheimers Magic Pilsner

Table 51: Kolsch-Style Ales (21 Entries)
1st – BrewBilt Brewing – Party Eyes Kolsch
2nd – Half Moon Bay Brewing Company – Kolsch
3rd – Discretion Brewing – Ten Million Flowers

Table 52: Marzen/Oktoberfest (6 Entries)
1st – Norco Brewing Co. – Norctoberfest
2nd – Geisthaus Brewing Company – Stormbond
3rd – DarkHeart Brewing Citrus Heights – Marzen

Table 53: New Zealand-Style IPA (16 Entries)
1st – Fall Brewing Company – Sweet Resistance
2nd – Barebottle Brewing Company – NZ Envy
3rd – Evans Brewing Co. – Tanka Jahari

Table 54: Non-Alcoholic Malt Beverage (6 Entries)
1st – Fieldwork Brewing Company – Day Money
2nd – Protector Brewery – Rancho West Non Alcoholic Beer
3rd – Touchstone Brewing Company – Off Belay

Table 55: Porters (29 Entries)
1st – Morgan Territory Brewing Company – Dark Reckoning
2nd – Tustin Brewing Co. – Blimp Hangar Porter
3rd – Pizza Port Brewing Co. – Carlsbad Village – Pine Park Porter

Table 56: Saison (9 Entries)
1st – Stone Church Brewing – Saison De Church
2nd – Apogee Brewing Co. – Lucy In The Rye
– French- & Belgian-Style Saison

Table 57: Schwarzbier (15 Entries)
1st – True Symmetry Brewing Co. – Midnight At Noon
2nd – Kairoa Brewing Company – Boots and Stubbies
3rd – Ogopogo Brewing – Nachtkrapp

Table 58: Scottish Ales (15 Entries)
1st – Fieldwork Brewing Company – Wrapt In Warm Flannel
2nd – Steel Bonnet Brewing – Numpty
3rd – LogOff Brewing – Dianasty

Table 59: Smoke Beers (7 Entries)
1st – Arts District Brewing Company – Kindling
2nd – Clandestine Brewing – Smoke And Mirrors
3rd – Black Hammer Brewing Company – Lillikoi Mezcalita

Table 60: Sour/Brett/Other Yeast (29 Entries)
1st – Burning Beard Brewing – In Praise of Bacchus
2nd – Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co – Jam Jam BoysenBerry
3rd – Angel City Brewery – Apple Pomace Puncheonr

Table 61: Specialty Stouts (4 Entries)
1st – TapRoom Beer Company – True Dark
2nd – Black Plague Brewing – Medusa
3rd – Hop Secret Brewing Company – Tongue Butter

Table 62: Vienna-Style Lager (16 Entries)
1st – Arts District Brewing Company – The Lush
2nd – Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. – Non Serviam
3rd – Alaro Craft Brewery – Adrianna

Table 63: Wit Beer (4 Entries)
1st – Ogopogo Brewing – Boeman
2nd – The Monk’s Cellar – Biere Blanche
3rd – Hop Dogma Brewing Company – Rocket Surgery

Table 64: Wood- And Barrel-Aged Beers (39 Entries)
1st – The Monk’s Cellar – Tradition
2nd – Two Ravens Brewery – Raven King
3rd – El Segundo Brewing Co. – Standard Crude

Vacancy Brewing’s Vacancy Classic Strikes Gold at the 2025 World Beer Cup!

May 8, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Austin, Texas – Hold the phone, y’all! South Austin’s Vacancy Brewing just nabbed a shiny Gold Award at the 2025 World Beer Cup®, the planet’s toughest beer showdown, for their fan-favorite Vacancy Classic in the American-Style Lager category. This is Texas-sized bragging rights for a brewery that’s all about chill vibes and killer brews!

The Beer Olympics Just Got Owned!
Dubbed “The Olympics of Beer,” the World Beer Cup, run by the Brewers Association, saw over 8,000 beers from 49 countries duke it out. Judged by global beer gurus, Vacancy Classic stood tall, proving that this crisp, clean lager is a world-class champ. Whether you’re a craft beer nerd or just love a cold one, this brew’s got universal swagger!

Brewmaster’s Big Win Vibes
“This gold is a game-changer for us, Texas craft beer, and our amazing community,” beams Brent Watson, Co-Founder and Head Brewer. “American-Style Lagers are all about balance and approachability—our bread and butter. To get this global nod is the stuff brewery dreams are made of!”

Why Vacancy Classic is Your New BFF
Vacancy Classic is the lager you’ll wanna keep in your fridge 24/7. Brewed with top-notch ingredients and old-school techniques, it’s crisp, refreshing, and perfectly balanced—ideal for backyard hangs, live music nights, or just kicking back. It’s the beer that says, “Hey, let’s make every moment awesome!”

Where to Sip the Gold Medal Goodness
Ready to taste the champ? Vacancy Classic is pouring on draft and chilling in to-go cans at Vacancy Brewing’s taproom (415 E St Elmo Rd 1-D2, Austin). You can also find it at Austin hot spots like Sagebrush, Maie Day, Toss Pizzeria & Pub, Loro (South Lamar & Domain North Side), Whip In, Cedar Door, East Austin Hotel, Double Trouble, Hole in the Wall, Austin’s Pizza Westlake, and Hopfields. Hunt it down at vacancybrewing.com!

Join the #VacancyClassicVictory Party
Let’s celebrate this win! Snap a pic with your Vacancy Classic—whether you’re toasting at the taproom or chilling at a bar—and share it with #VacancyClassicVictory. You could score some epic Vacancy swag! Get sipping, posting, and let’s keep the Austin beer love loud!

About Vacancy Brewing
Tucked in South Austin’s funky St. Elmo district, Vacancy Brewing has been a craft beer haven since 2021. Founded by Brent and Sara Watson, this neighborhood gem is all about crisp lagers, creative brews, and a taproom that feels like your best friend’s living room. With Brent’s brewing chops from Trumer Pils and Sara’s hospitality magic, Vacancy serves up beers like the gold-medal Vacancy Classic and Hill Country Pilsner alongside epic community events. From live music to food truck pop-ups, their taproom is a vibe, and their beers are poured across Austin’s coolest spots. Dive into their world at vacancybrewing.com.

Vacancy Brewing isn’t just a brewery—it’s a love letter to Austin’s craft beer scene. Their commitment to approachable, high-quality beers shines through in every pint, from their award-winning Vacancy Classic to seasonal stunners. The St. Elmo taproom is a community hub where locals gather for trivia nights, live tunes, and a rotating lineup of food trucks. With distribution across Austin and a passion for traditional brewing, Vacancy is proof that small breweries can make a big impact. Whether you’re a lager loyalist or a hop enthusiast, Vacancy’s got a beer to make your day. Pop by the taproom or grab a can to-go and join the South Austin beer revolution!

Looking for a Beer Festival? Here are the Top 10 Beer Festivals in America plus a few more – CLICK HERE.

The History of D. G. Yuengling & Son Brewery and Timeline

May 7, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Yuengling in the coal-rich town of Pottsville, Pennsylvania. Originally named the Eagle Brewery, the company began with a modest operation and a strong commitment to traditional German brewing methods. David Yuengling later renamed it to D.G. Yuengling & Son in 1873 when his son Frederick joined the business—establishing the family legacy that continues to this day.

1829: A German Immigrant’s Dream
David Gottlieb Yuengling, a brewer from Aldingen, Württemberg (present-day Germany), arrived in the United States seeking opportunity. Just 30 years old, he settled in Pottsville, Pennsylvania—then a booming coal town—and founded the Eagle Brewery in 1829 on Centre Street. This location was ideal, as it sat near anthracite coal mines and a growing working-class population in need of refreshment after long shifts underground.

Early production was modest and largely based on traditional European-style ales and porters. The brewery utilized cool local caves for fermentation and storage, a common practice in the pre-refrigeration era.

1830s–1850s: A Fire and a Rebuild
In 1831, just two years after opening, a devastating fire destroyed the original brewery. Rather than give up, Yuengling rebuilt the operation just a block away at its current Mahantongo Street location. This resilience established a theme that would echo throughout the brewery’s long history.

The new facility offered greater capacity and closer proximity to the town’s resources. As railroads began linking Pottsville with major East Coast cities, Yuengling gained access to new markets and ingredients, positioning the brewery for long-term success.

1860s–1870s: A Time of Growth and Family Legacy
By the time of the Civil War, Eagle Brewery had grown into a respected regional beer maker. Following the war, David Yuengling’s son, Frederick Yuengling, joined the business. In 1873, as a reflection of the generational partnership, the company was renamed D.G. Yuengling & Son.

Frederick brought education and modern business acumen to the operation. He was a graduate of the Manhattan Business School and had studied brewing in Munich, Germany—one of the premier brewing centers of the world. This infusion of technical skill helped improve product quality and expand operations.

1880s–1890s: Surviving the Rise of Lager
The late 1800s saw the explosion in popularity of lager beer, which was lighter, crisper, and easier to drink than traditional British-style ales. Thanks to Frederick’s German brewing education, Yuengling was well-positioned to pivot to lagers.

Yuengling introduced several lager styles, expanding its appeal. While lager production required expensive refrigeration systems, Yuengling’s Mahantongo Street facility was already using caves to maintain stable temperatures, giving it a cost-effective advantage during this transition.

In 1899, Frederick Yuengling died at the young age of 51. Control of the company passed to his son, Frank D. Yuengling, who was just 21 years old at the time.

1900–1920: Preparing for Tough Times
Under Frank’s leadership, the brewery continued to grow, becoming a cornerstone of Pottsville’s economy. He expanded production, introduced new beer styles, and managed to keep the business modernized through the turn of the century.

But storm clouds were forming: the temperance movement was gaining traction, and national Prohibition loomed.

As the 1910s progressed, Frank began preparing for the worst. Like other breweries, Yuengling looked into diversifying its operations in anticipation of Prohibition, including experimenting with non-alcoholic products and building a dairy to support alternative business models.

By 1920, when the 18th Amendment officially banned the manufacture and sale of alcohol, D.G. Yuengling & Son was a well-established, family-run brewery with over 90 years of history, poised to fight for survival during the most challenging era in American brewing history.

1920–1933: Surviving Prohibition
When the 18th Amendment went into effect in January 1920, most American breweries were forced to shut down or pivot drastically. Frank D. Yuengling, now leading the brewery into its second century, made the bold decision to diversify rather than close.

Yuengling began producing several legal products:

Yuengling “Near Beer” – Containing less than 0.5% alcohol by volume, this product complied with the Volstead Act. They made brands like Yuengling Special, Yuengling Juvo (a “health tonic” drink), and Yuengling Por-Tor.

Yuengling Dairy Products – In 1920, Yuengling built a dairy across from the brewery, producing ice cream, chocolate milk, and other dairy goods. The dairy business would remain successful and continue for decades, even after Prohibition ended.

These pivots didn’t just help Yuengling stay afloat—they solidified its place as a community institution and created brand loyalty that paid dividends in the decades to come.

1933: The Return of Real Beer
With the repeal of Prohibition in December 1933, many breweries rushed to re-establish their operations. Yuengling was one of the first to get a license and immediately brewed and shipped a celebratory beer called:

“Winner Beer” – a lager sent by truck to President Franklin D. Roosevelt at the White House.

The brewery capitalized on the renewed demand by reintroducing its pre-Prohibition recipes and expanding output. Its reputation for quality and its status as a survivor of Prohibition made Yuengling a regional favorite once again.

1930s–1950s: The Regional Beer Boom
Under Frank’s continued leadership, Yuengling modernized its equipment, added bottling lines, and expanded distribution throughout eastern Pennsylvania and into New Jersey. During this period, the brewery produced a variety of beer styles including:

Yuengling Premium Beer
Yuengling Porter
Chesterfield Ale
Yuengling Bock (a seasonal offering)

Porter, in particular, was popular with local coal miners, who enjoyed the rich, hearty style after a day in the mines. It remains one of the few American porters with unbroken production dating back to the 1800s.

Despite the brewery’s size, Yuengling maintained a local, family-owned identity, which helped it navigate the industry’s postwar consolidation. While major brewers like Anheuser-Busch and Schlitz expanded nationally with massive advertising budgets, Yuengling remained loyal to its regional roots.

1963: Frank Yuengling’s Death and Succession
Frank D. Yuengling passed away in 1963 after nearly 64 years at the helm—a remarkable tenure. His son, Richard Yuengling Sr., took over the business. Although the brewery was now facing increased pressure from national beer brands and a changing American palate, Richard Sr. continued the tradition of independence and conservative growth.

Throughout the 1960s and 70s, Yuengling’s beers remained local favorites in Pennsylvania bars and taverns, known for their affordability and traditional flavor profiles.

1985: A Turning Point – Dick Yuengling Jr. Takes Over
In 1985, Dick Yuengling Jr., the fifth generation of the Yuengling family, bought the company from his father. Having worked in the brewery from a young age and later managing a beer distributorship, Dick had both operational knowledge and a clear vision for modernization.

At the time, Yuengling was struggling. With dated equipment, a declining customer base, and intense competition from national beer brands, the brewery was producing only around 137,000 barrels annually—tiny compared to major brewers.

Dick brought energy, investment, and strategic thinking. He upgraded brewing equipment, revamped packaging, and introduced a sales-driven approach while keeping the brewery family-owned and independent.

1987: The Return of Traditional Lager
Perhaps the most pivotal move in the company’s modern history came in 1987, when Yuengling reintroduced an old recipe: Yuengling Traditional Lager.

Unlike the lighter macrobrews dominating the market, Traditional Lager had a rich amber color, a bready malt profile, and a crisp hop finish. It immediately resonated with drinkers who wanted a flavorful, affordable alternative. Soon, bars were installing “Lager” handles—in many East Coast regions, asking for a “lager” meant getting a Yuengling.

This beer became the cornerstone of Yuengling’s success and catapulted the company into a new era.

1990s–2000s: Expansion Without Compromise
With demand skyrocketing, Dick Yuengling responded decisively but cautiously:

1999: Yuengling purchased a former Stroh’s Brewery in Tampa, Florida, massively expanding capacity and enabling the brand to serve the Southeastern U.S.

2001: A second Pottsville facility—adjacent to the original—opened to meet increasing demand in the Mid-Atlantic.

Distribution grew slowly but steadily, always prioritizing supply chain reliability over unchecked expansion.

Yuengling began appearing in new states like New York, Ohio, and North Carolina, with loyal fans traveling across state lines to stock up before it officially arrived in their area.

2000s–2010s: The “Craft” Powerhouse
Despite its size, Yuengling remained fiercely independent and continued to be classified as a craft brewery by the Brewers Association due to its family ownership and traditional brewing methods.

During this era, Yuengling introduced:
Yuengling Light Lager (2001)
Yuengling Black & Tan
Seasonal Bocks and Oktoberfest
Re-releases of historic brews, like its Porter and Chesterfield Ale

Yuengling’s flagship Traditional Lager consistently ranked among the top-selling beers in the country—not just among craft brews, but overall.

2020s: New Horizons and a Sixth Generation
In 2021, Yuengling entered into a joint venture with Molson Coors to expand distribution west of the Mississippi for the first time. This strategic alliance brought Yuengling to Texas and set the stage for broader national growth without giving up ownership or production control.

Meanwhile, Dick Yuengling’s four daughters—Wendy, Jennifer, Debbie, and Sheryl—have taken active roles in the company. Wendy Yuengling currently serves as Chief Administrative Officer, helping to guide the brand into the future while preserving its heritage.

In 2025, Yuengling celebrated its 196th anniversary, making it not only America’s oldest brewery but also one of its most enduring family businesses.

Today: A National Legacy with Local Roots
Now producing over 2.5 million barrels per year, Yuengling remains headquartered in Pottsville, PA, and continues to brew beer in both Pennsylvania and Florida. It’s still known for its consistent quality, historic character, and proud independence.

Whether enjoyed in a hometown bar in Pennsylvania or a backyard in Austin, Yuengling represents more than just beer—it’s a piece of American brewing history that continues to grow, five generations strong.

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Cheers to National Homebrew Day: The first Saturday in May

May 7, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Cheers to the First National Homebrew Day: May 7th, 1988

Every year on the first Saturday of May, beer enthusiasts across the United States raise a glass to celebrate National Homebrew Day! This frothy holiday, established by the American Homebrewers Association (AHA), is a tribute to the art, science, and community of homebrewing. Whether you’re a seasoned brewer or a curious newbie, National Homebrew Day is the perfect excuse to dive into the world of craft beer, experiment with flavors, and share the joy of a cold, homemade pint. National Homebrew Day was created to honor the passion and creativity of homebrewers who craft their own beer from scratch. It’s a day to celebrate the DIY spirit, connect with fellow beer lovers, and showcase the endless possibilities of brewing at home. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, homebrewing lets you customize every sip to your taste. On the first Saturday in May, homebrewers nationwide will fire up their kettles, mix their malts, and participate in the AHA’s Big Brew event, a global toast where brewers make the same recipes or share their own. It’s not just about brewing—it’s about community, learning, and, of course, enjoying the fruits of your labor!

Why Homebrewing is So Awesome

Homebrewing is more than just a hobby; it’s a creative outlet that blends science, artistry, and a love for beer. Here’s why it’s worth celebrating:

Endless Creativity: Want a chocolate stout or a mango-infused sour? With homebrewing, you’re the master of your flavors.
Community Vibes: Homebrew clubs and events like Big Brew bring people together to swap recipes, tips, and tastings.
Sustainability: Brewing at home can be eco-friendly, using local ingredients and reusable equipment.
Learning Curve: From fermentation to carbonation, you’ll geek out on the science behind that perfect pour.

How to Celebrate National Homebrew Day

Ready to join the fun? Here are some ways to make the most of National Homebrew Day:

Start Brewing: Pick a beginner-friendly recipe like a pale ale or join the AHA’s Big Brew recipes. Kits are available online or at local brew shops.
Join a Local Event: Check with your local homebrew club or brewery for tastings, workshops, or group brews. Many host Big Brew watch parties!
Share Your Brew: Bottle up your latest batch and share it with friends (responsibly, of course). Nothing beats the pride of a homemade beer.
Learn Something New: Watch online tutorials, read up on hop varieties, or experiment with a new ingredient like fruit or spices.
Toast Virtually: Can’t make it to an event? Join the global toast at 1:00 PM ET, share your brew on social media with #NationalHomebrewDay, and connect with brewers worldwide.

Fun Facts About Homebrewing

It’s Legal (Mostly): Thanks to a 1978 law signed by President Jimmy Carter, homebrewing is legal in the U.S. for personal use, though some states have specific rules.
Ancient Roots: Beer brewing dates back over 7,000 years, with ancient Sumerians and Egyptians perfecting early recipes.
Craft Beer Boom: Many craft breweries, like Sierra Nevada and Samuel Adams, started as homebrew experiments.
Big Brew Impact: In 2024, thousands of brewers participated in Big Brew, producing gallons of beer for charity and community events.

Tips for Homebrewing Newbies

Dipping your toes into homebrewing? Here’s how to get started:

Invest in a Kit: Starter kits (around $50-$100) include essentials like fermenters, airlocks, and sanitizers.
Keep It Clean: Sanitation is key—any bacteria can ruin your batch.
Start Simple: Try a pre-made recipe kit before tweaking your own.
Be Patient: Fermentation takes 1-2 weeks, and some beers need months to mature.
Join a Club: Local or online homebrew communities offer advice, feedback, and camaraderie.

Raise a Glass to Homebrewing!

National Homebrew Day is the first Saturday in May, is your chance to celebrate the craft, community, and creativity of homebrewing. Whether you’re brewing your first batch, joining a Big Brew event, or simply sipping a friend’s homemade IPA, this day is all about the love of beer. So grab your hops, sanitize your fermenter, and let’s toast to the joy of making something delicious from scratch.

Cheers to National Homebrew Day—here’s to great brews and good times!

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History of Corn Beer in North America before the European settlers

May 6, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Long before European settlers set foot on North American soil, the continent’s indigenous peoples were brewing a beer that bubbled with the spirit of the land itself—corn beer. Maize, a staple crop domesticated in the Americas thousands of years ago, wasn’t just food; it was a sacred gift, a source of sustenance, and, in the hands of skilled brewers, a pathway to celebration and ritual. From the Andes to the American Southwest, corn beer wove itself into the cultural fabric, and its legacy endures in North America’s brewing history.

In the pre-Columbian era, corn beer was a cornerstone of indigenous life. In the Andes, the Wari culture (600–1000 AD) relied on elite women to brew chicha, a fermented maize beverage, for feasts and ceremonies. Archaeological digs at Cerro Baúl in Peru reveal sprawling breweries where sprouted corn kernels were malted, not chewed, as some myths suggest, to convert starches into fermentable sugars. These brews, sometimes flavored with Peruvian pink peppercorns, were potent enough to fuel social bonds and religious rites. Farther north, in what is now Mexico, the Tarahumara people crafted tesguino, a sacred corn beer brewed for Holy Week celebrations, using sprouted maize and wild herbs. The Apache and Chiricahua, in the American Southwest, fermented tiswin, a “yellow water” made from ground, sprouted corn flavored with locoweed or lignum vitae roots, often after days of fasting to amplify its intoxicating kick.

When Europeans arrived, they brought barley-based brewing traditions, but corn was already king in the New World. The Pilgrims, landing at Plymouth Rock in 1620, ran low on beer and learned from Native Americans to ferment maize with birch sap and water. By 1622, John Winthrop Jr. presented a paper to the Royal Society on malting maize, signaling early colonial interest in corn as a brewing grain. In Virginia, settlers like John Smith reported brewhouses producing beer from native corn by 1629, a practical choice when barley was scarce and imports costly. These early beers, often flavored with molasses, sassafras, or spruce, were rough but vital, sipped from waxed leather tankards called “black jacks.”

Corn’s role grew in the 19th century as German immigrants reshaped American brewing. Their beloved Bavarian lagers, made with two-row barley, didn’t translate well to America’s protein-heavy six-row barley, which produced hazy, unstable beers prone to spoilage. Enter corn, abundant and cheap, with a low-protein profile that lightened body and color. By the 1870s, brewers like John Glatz in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and the Pabst Brewing Company were adding corn grits—about 20% of the grain bill—to their mashes, guided by brewing scientist Anton Schwarz’s influential articles in The American Brewer. The result was the quintessential American lager: pale, clear, and crisp, perfect for hot summers and rapid drinking. In 1878, Anheuser-Busch’s corn-infused lager won a grand prize in France, outshining European rivals despite Germany’s strict Reinheitsgebot purity laws.

Corn wasn’t just a fix for barley’s flaws; it was a cultural fit. North America’s vast cornfields made it a natural choice, unlike barley, which farmers loathed for its spiny awns and low market value. Brewers experimented with forms—grits, flaked corn, even cornmeal—to achieve a smooth, dry finish with a neutral sweetness. Beers like Krueger’s Finest, canned in 1935, and mass-market lagers from Budweiser and Coors leaned on corn for their light, approachable profiles, often using up to 30% corn to keep flavors clean and calories low.

But corn’s reputation took a hit. By the mid-20th century, craft beer purists scorned it as a cheap filler, blaming corn syrup (like NU-BRU, used by Oshkosh Brewing in the 1960s) for bland, mass-produced lagers. A 2019 Bud Light Super Bowl ad mocking rivals’ corn syrup use didn’t help. Yet, the tide is turning. Craft brewers like Fonta Flora and Black Narrows in Virginia are reviving corn’s legacy with heirloom varieties like Bloody Butcher and Hopi Blue, grown by Native farmers. Trillium’s Crib lager, brewed with Valley Malt’s malted corn, and Cruz Blanca’s Mexican-style lager, with 70% Bloody Butcher, showcase corn’s spicy, peppery depth. These beers, often gluten-free like Dos Luces’ chicha-inspired brews, honor indigenous traditions while pushing flavor boundaries.

Corn beer’s journey in North America is a story of adaptation and resilience. From sacred tiswin to colonial experiments, from 19th-century lagers to modern craft revivals, maize has been more than an ingredient—it’s a thread connecting cultures across centuries. So, on National Beer Lover’s Day, crack open a corn lager and toast to the grain that’s been brewing history since the dawn of the Americas.

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Ohio and Cincinnati Breweries win big at the 2025 World Beer Cup

May 4, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Ohio and Cincinnati Breweries win big at the 2025 World Beer Cup
The 2025 World Beer Cup, often dubbed the “Olympics of Beer,” took place on May 1, 2025, in Indianapolis, crowning a stellar lineup of breweries for their exceptional craft. With 8,375 entries from 1,761 breweries across 49 nations, judged by 265 experts over 14 sessions, this prestigious competition showcased the pinnacle of brewing artistry. From bold IPAs to delicate lagers, the winners represent a global tapestry of innovation and tradition. Let’s raise a glass to some of the standout breweries that claimed gold, silver, and bronze in 2025

Ohio’s Craft Beer Renaissance
Ohio breweries made a strong case for the Midwest’s brewing prowess, with eight breweries combining for 10 awards. Fat Head’s Brewery in Middleburg Heights led with three medals: golds for Bone Head (Strong Red Ale) and Goggle Fogger (South German-Style Hefeweizen), and a silver for Dunkelosteus (South German-Style Dunkel Weizen). Their consistent success—they’ve medaled in every World Beer Cup since 2012—underscores their mastery. Gemut Biergarten in Columbus also struck gold with Skol Crusher Dortmunder in the Dortmunder/Export category, a testament to their precision with lagers.

Cincinnati’s Local Heroes
Cincinnati’s breweries sparkled, with Third Eye Brewing claiming gold for Higher Consciousness (Scotch Ale), while Fretboard Brewing Co. and Wandering Monster each earned bronzes for Crazy Train (Belgian-Style Ale) and Viator Obscura (Triple Chocolate), respectively. These wins reflect the city’s vibrant craft culture.

U.S. Breweries Dominate the Podium
American craft breweries continued their reign, with states like Colorado, Oregon, and California leading the charge. River North Brewery in Denver, Colorado, emerged as a powerhouse, securing three medals, including silvers for Pumpkin Spiced J. Marie Saison (Pumpkin Beer) and Squirrels Just Want to Have Fun (Coffee Beer), plus a bronze for Midnight Hike (Chocolate Beer). Their versatility across styles highlights why Colorado remains a craft beer mecca.

In Oregon, Breakside Brewery in Portland stole the show with an impressive six medals, including three golds for Spring Day (American-Belgo-Style Ale), Cheat Codes (American-Style Black Ale or Stout), and a bronze for their flagship Breakside IPA (American-Style India Pale Ale). Bend’s Deschutes Brewery also shone, nabbing three golds, including one for Black Butte Non-Alcoholic (Non-Alcohol Beer), proving that flavor doesn’t need alcohol to impress.

California’s Green Cheek Beer Co. in Orange earned four medals, with a gold for Chance Favors The Prepared Mind (American-Style India Pale Ale) and a silver for Art Isn’t Real (Juicy or Hazy India Pale Ale), cementing their reputation for hop-forward excellence. Meanwhile, Firestone Walker in Paso Robles celebrated a trio of medals, with Union Jack (American-Style India Pale Ale) taking gold, Pear Saison (Belgian-Style Ale) earning silver, and Pivo (International Pilsener) rounding it out.

Washington and Oregon: PNW Powerhouses
The Pacific Northwest shone brightly, with Washington and Oregon each claiming 24 medals. Washington’s Reuben’s Brews in Seattle took silver for their Robust Porter (Robust Porter), while Icicle Brewing in Leavenworth earned a bronze for Premium Pilsner (International Pilsener). Oregon’s 10 Barrel Brewing swept the German-Style Sour Ale category, with Ginzu and German Sparkle Party taking gold and bronze, respectively, showcasing their experimental flair.

International Stars Shine
While U.S. breweries dominated, international contenders held their own. Canada’s Whistler Brewing Co. won gold for Whistler Winter Dunkel (Munich-Style Dunkel), and Mexico’s Buqui Bichi Brewing claimed gold for Banquetera (International Lager). German breweries, true to tradition, secured 12 medals, with Brauerei Ladenburger earning gold for Ladenburger Kristallweizen (German-Style Kristal Weizen). These wins highlight the global diversity of craft beer, from crisp lagers to complex ales.

Mid-Atlantic and Southern Standouts
Virginia’s breweries made waves, with Aslin Beer Co. winning for Afterlife Elixir and Devils Backbone taking medals for Belgian Wheat and Dogwood Saison. North Carolina breweries brought home 11 medals, showcasing the South’s growing craft scene.

In Florida, Ivanhoe Park Brewing celebrated a silver for Rosenbock in the German-Style Bock category, a proud moment for their Orlando-based team. Wisconsin’s New Glarus Brewing also had a stellar showing, with a gold for their Belgian Style Kriek, a silver for Champ Du Blanc, and a bronze for Imperial Pilsner.

Why It Matters
Winning a World Beer Cup medal is no small feat. As Chris Williams, competition director, noted, “Each award represents not only exceptional quality but also innovation and creativity, driving the global craft beer industry forward.” These breweries, from small taprooms to industry giants, embody the passion and precision that define craft brewing. Whether it’s a hazy IPA from California or a traditional Pilsner from Germany, the 2025 winners remind us why beer is a universal language.

Complete List of 2025 World Beer Cup Winners

Category: 1: American Wheat Beer – 36 Entries
Gold: Fuzztail, Sunriver Brewing Co., Sunriver, OR
Silver: Lunar Fallout, Tilted Axis Brewing Co., Lapeer, MI
Bronze: Spring Valley Silk Ale, Spring Valley Brewery, Shibuya, Japan

Category: 2: Fruit Beer – 90 Entries
Gold: Altstadt Radler, Altstadt Brewery, Fredericksburg, TX
Silver: Hey Girl, Hey, Starr Hill Beer Hall & Rooftop, Richmond, VA
Bronze: Limaveza, New Realm Brewing, Atlanta, GA

Category: 3: Fruit Wheat Beer – 77 Entries
Gold: Mango Cart, Golden Road Brewing Anaheim, Anaheim, CA
Silver: Yuzu Weiss, Yokohama Bay Brewing Co., Yokohama, Japan
Bronze: Samuel Adams Summer Ale, Boston Beer Co., Somerville, MA

Category: 4: Field Beer – 70 Entries
Gold: Tonya’s Still Crushing It, Blue Moon Brewing Co., Denver, CO
Silver: Heiwa Craft A Study in Pink, Heiwa Shuzou Co., Kainan, Japan
Bronze: Coconut Oil Man, Elevation Beer Co., Poncha Springs, CO

Category: 5: Pumpkin Beer – 26 Entries
Gold: Not Your Grandma’s Pumpkin Ale, Grand Junction Brewing Co., Westfield, IN
Silver: Pumpkin Spice J. Marie, River North Brewery, Denver, CO
Bronze: Pumpkin Ale, Bier Brewery and Taproom, Indianapolis, IN

Category: 6: Chili Beer – 55 Entries
Gold: Pyro’s Prost, Hop Dogma, Half Moon Bay, CA
Silver: Breakside All Yellow, Breakside Brewery, Portland, OR
Bronze: Tangerine Heat, Dakota Point Brewing, Rapid City, SD

Category: 7: Herb and Spice Beer – 79 Entries
Gold: Sansho Gose – Koji, Open Air Brewing, Kobe, Japan
Silver: Burma Ale, Alameda Brewing, Alameda, CA
Bronze: Lavender & Chamomile, Craft Beer Base, Osaka, Japan

Category: 8: Chocolate Beer – 59 Entries
Gold: Chocolate Porter, Diatribe Brewing Co., Asheville, NC
Silver: Viator Obscura: Triple Chocolate, Wandering Monsters Brewing
Co., Cincinnati, OH
Bronze: Midnight Hike, River North Brewery, Denver, CO

Category: 9: Coffee Beer – 69 Entries
Gold: Coffee Cream Ale, Pantown Brewing Co., St. Cloud, MN
Silver: Squirrels Just Want to Have Fun, River North Brewery, Denver, CO
Bronze: Gusto Crema, Georgetown Brewing Co., Seattle, WA

Category: 10: Coffee Stout or Porter – 68 Entries
Gold: Midnight Sea, Morgan Territory Brewing, Tracy, CA
Silver: Dusk Til Dawn, Pizza Port San Clemente, San Clemente, CA
Bronze: Lil’ Zoomie, Brink Brewing Co., Cincinnati, OH

Category: 11: Dessert Stout or Pastry Stout – 101 Entries
Gold: The Gateway, West Coast Brewing, Shizuoka, Japan
Silver: Saturday Morning Cartoons, Hackamore Brewing Co.,
Chanhassen, MN
Bronze: Happy Almonds, Moksa Brewing Co., Rocklin, CA

Category: 12: Rye Beer – 36 Entries
Gold: Steamy Wonder, Proper Brewing Co., Salt Lake City, UT
Silver: Wooly Pig Farm Brewery Rye Dunkel, Wooly Pig Farm Brewery,
Fresno, OH
Bronze: Roggenbier, Schulz Bräu Brewing Co., Knoxville, TN

Category: 13: Honey Beer – 44 Entries
Gold: Hachimitsu Mai, Deschutes Brewery – PDX Pub, Portland, OR
Silver: Miss Behave, Moonraker Brewing, Cameron Park, CA
Bronze: Ommegang Farm Fresh Ale, Brewery Ommegang,
Cooperstown, NY

Category: 14: Classic Non-Alcohol Ale or Lager – 72 Entries
Gold: Tsingtao Non-Alcoholic Wheat Beer, Tsingtao Brewery Co.,
Qingdao, China
Silver: Svyturys Ekstra Non Alko, Švyturys-Utenos alus, Vilnius, Lithuania
Bronze: Kölsch, Best Day Brewing, Berthoud, CO

Category: 15: Hoppy Non-Alcohol Beer – 61 Entries
Gold: Trail Pass Hazy IPA, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. – Chico, Chico, CA
Silver: Disarm, Go Brewing, Naperville, IL
Bronze: Bird of Prey 0.2, Uiltje Brewing Co., Haarlem, Netherlands

Category: 16: Specialty Non-Alcohol Beer – 35 Entries
Gold: Sim! Cerveja Sem Álcool – Melancia SOUR’n Salt, Sim! Cerveja,
Campinas, Brazil
Silver: BBNOALC, Four Winds Brewing Co., Delta, Canada
Bronze: New School, Go Brewing, Naperville, IL

Category: 17: Session Beer or Belgian-Style Table Beer – 34 Entries
Gold: Table Beer, Lost Cabin Beer Co., Rapid City, SD
Silver: Shiner Bock, Spoetzl Brewery, Shiner, TX
Bronze: Saison Lily, ColdFire Barrel House, Eugene, OR

Category: 18: Session India Pale Ale – 73 Entries
Gold: Micro Blaster, Shred Beer Co., Rocklin, CA
Silver: Hefty Fee, Docent Brewing, San Juan Capistrano, CA
Bronze: Scenic Route, Westbound & Down Brewing Co., Lafayette, CO

Category: 19: Strong Porter – 58 Entries
Gold: Battle Axe, Fat Heads Brewery, Middleburg Heights, OH
Silver: Baltic Porter, Haymarket Beer Co., Bridgman, MI
Bronze: Baltic Porter, Nonsuch Brewing Co., Winnipeg, Canada

Category: 20: Other Strong Beer – 39 Entries
Gold: Imperial Dark Mast, Pond Farm Brewing Co., San Rafael, CA
Silver: East County Fine Malt Liquor, The Post Brewing Co., Lafayette, CO
Bronze: Imperial Pilsner, New Glarus Brewing Co., New Glarus, WI

Category: 21: Experimental Beer – 87 Entries
Gold: Screaming Plum, Muho Brewery, Rende Dist., Taiwan
Silver: Big Trouble in Little Tokyo, Angel City Brewery, Los Angeles, CA
Bronze: Amalfi, Sun King Brewery, Indianapolis, IN

Category: 22: Experimental India Pale Ale – 70 Entries
Gold: Pepper & Peaches, Claremont Craft Ales, Claremont, CA
Silver: Infinite Glow, Highlander Beer – Salmon, Salmon, ID
Bronze: Rainbow Suspenders, Seapine Brewing Co., Seattle, WA

Category: 23: Historical Beer – 46 Entries
Gold: Vinter Liv, Paddlefish Brewing Co., Saint Peter, MN
Silver: AEgir’s Wreath, Archival Brewing, Belmont, MI
Bronze: Lichtenhainer, Mythmaker Brewing, Fort Collins, CO

Category: 24: Gluten-Free Beer – 39 Entries
Gold: Pacific Ale, TWØBAYS Brewing Co., Dromana, Australia
Silver: Winter Lager, Orange Bike Brewing Co., Portland, ME
Bronze: Met at Midnight, Armored Cow Brewing Co., Charlotte, NC

Category: 25: American-Belgo-Style Ale – 31 Entries
Gold: Breakside Spring Day, Breakside Brewery & Taproom, Milwaukie, OR
Silver: Dear You, Ratio Beerworks, Denver, CO
Bronze: Picked Last, Fieldwork Brewing Co., Berkeley, CA

Category: 26: American-Style Sour Ale – 106 Entries
Gold: Howzit Punch, Alvarado Street Brewery, Salinas, CA
Silver: Limoilou Beach, Microbrasserie La Souche, Stoneham-etTewkesbury, Canada
Bronze: Tropic Desert, Other Brother Beer Co., Seaside, CA

Category: 27: Brett Beer – 38 Entries
Gold: Free Range Farmhouse Ale, Sun King Brewery, Indianapolis, IN
Silver: Pear Saison, Firestone Walker Brewing – Propagator, Paso Robles,
CA
Bronze: Wild Side, Jing-A Brewing, Beijing, China

Category: 28: Mixed-Culture Brett Beer – 52 Entries
Gold: Brett Para 3, Cervecería Kürüf, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Silver: Bobbi, Fair Isle Brewing, Seattle, WA
Bronze: Frank On Sled, Deadman Brewery, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Category: 29: Wood- and Barrel-Aged Beer – 37 Entries
Gold: Dr. Sleep, San Fernando Brewing Co., San Fernando, CA
Silver: A.5, Eighty-Three Brewery, Akron, OH
Bronze: Sensationator, Deschutes Brewery – PDX Pub, Portland, OR

Category: 30: Wood- and Barrel-Aged Strong Beer – 136 Entries
Gold: Perpetual Peace, No Label Brewing Co., Katy, TX
Silver: Anniversary Year 5, Lumberbeard Brewing, Spokane, WA
Bronze: Afterlife Elixir, Aslin Beer Co., Alexandria, VA

Category: 31: Wood- and Barrel-Aged Strong Stout – 117 Entries
Gold: Depth Dweller, Indigo Reef Brewing Co., Mount Pleasant, SC
Silver: Elagabalus, Caius Farm Brewery, Branford, CT
Bronze: Deth’s Tar, Revolution Brewing, Chicago, IL

Category: 32: Wood- and Barrel-Aged Sour Beer – 83 Entries
Gold: The Virtue of Patience, Bold Monk Brewing Co., Atlanta, GA
Silver: Gin Golden Sour, Stodgy Brewing Co., Fort Collins, CO
Bronze: Broliner Weisse, Wooden Bear Brewing Co., Greenfield, IN

Category: 33: Kellerbier or Zwickelbier – 55 Entries
Gold: Broumy, Pivovar Matuška, Broumy, Czech Republic
Silver: Pilsners are Lagers, Benchtop Brewing Co., Norfolk, VA
Bronze: Karbach Kellerbier, Karbach Brewing, Houston, TX

Category: 34: Smoke Beer – 73 Entries
Gold: Weiherer Rauch, Brauerei-Gasthof Kundmüller, Viereth-Trunstadt,
Germany
Silver: Daisy Lampkin, Late Addition Brewing + Blending, Pittsburgh, PA
Bronze: Smokey the Beer, Blind Tiger Brewery & Restaurant, Topeka, KS

Category: 35: American Light Lager – 134 Entries
Gold: Clubhaus Lager, Von Ebert Brewing, Portland, OR
Silver: Old Fortwaukee, Coopersmith’s Pub & Brewing, Fort Collins, CO
Bronze: Really Decent, Werk Force Brewing Co., Plainfield, IL

Category: 36: International Light Lager – 86 Entries
Gold: Solveza, Peaceful Side Brewery, Maryville, TN
Silver: Yucatan Sunrise, Full Distance Brewing Co., Stafford, VA
Bronze: Snow Dust, Sacred Waters Brewing Co., Kalispell, MT

Category: 37: International-Style Pilsener – 80 Entries
Gold: Birkebeinerpils, Victor 23, Portland, OR
Silver: Hi-Wire Lager, Hi-Wire Brewing, Asheville, NC
Bronze: Icicle Premium Pilsner, Icicle Brewing Co., Leavenworth, WA

Category: 38: International-Style Lager – 103 Entries
Gold: Yamagata, Original Pattern Brewing, Oakland, CA
Silver: Otaku Hyper Dry, GameCraft Brewing, Laguna Hills, CA
Bronze: Rice Breaker, Hana Koa Brewing Co., Honolulu, HI

Category: 39: Hoppy Lager – 155 Entries
Gold: Cold IPA, pFriem Family Brewers, Hood River, OR
Silver: Super Smash, Unsung Brewing Co., Tustin, CA
Bronze: Krispi Kiwi, Far Field Beer Co., Lawndale, CA

Category: 40: Munich-Style Dunkel – 60 Entries
Gold: G.G., Exile Brewing Co., Des Moines, IA
Silver: Horn of Hammerhand, Flix Brewhouse – Des Moines, Des Moines, IA
Bronze: Moondoor Dunkel, Wibby Brewing, Longmont, CO

Category: 41: International Dark Lager – 109 Entries
Gold: Late Czech Out, Pilot Brewing Co., Charlotte, NC
Silver: Secret Secret, Wayfinder Beer, Portland, OR
Bronze: Czech Style Dark Lager, Cold Bear Brewing Co., Arnprior, Canada

Category: 42: Italian-Style Pilsener – 132 Entries
Gold: STS Pils, Russian River Brewing Co., Windsor, CA
Silver: Hamburghini, ISM Brewing, Long Beach, CA
Bronze: Pivo, Firestone Walker Brewing Co., Paso Robles, CA

Category: 43: German-Style Pilsener – 186 Entries
Gold: Haha Pils, Arbeiter Brewing Co., Minneapolis, MN
Silver: Kinabik Pilsner, Snake Lake Brewing Co., Sylvan Lake, Canada
Bronze: Planks, MadeWest Brewing Co., Ventura, CA

Category: 44: Bohemian-Style Pilsener – 132 Entries
Gold: Bay Pilsner, Yokohama Bay Brewing Co., Yokohama, Japan
Silver: Pilsner Rešov, Equal Parts Brewing, Houston, TX
Bronze: Minoh Beer Pilsner, Minoh Brewery, Minoh-shi, Japan

Category: 45: Munich-Style Helles – 145 Entries
Gold: Construct Of Quality, Cinder Block Brewery, North Kansas City, MO
Silver: Kirkland Signature Helles Lager, Deschutes Brewery, Bend, OR
Bronze: Hachenburger Hell, Westerwald-Brauerei H. Schneider, Hachenburg, Germany

Category: 46: Dortmunder/Export or German Oktoberfest – 70 Entries
Gold: The Cushman, Morgan Territory Brewing, Tracy, CA
Silver: Thunder from Dortmunder, Marble Brewery, Albuquerque, NM
Bronze: Guldkällan, Spendrups Bryggeri, Stockholm, Sweden

Category: 47: Vienna-Style Lager – 88 Entries
Gold: Vienna, Second Street Brewery, Santa Fe, NM
Silver: Family Tradition, BarrieHaus Beer Co., Tampa, FL
Bronze: Vienna Fest Bier, Quarter Celtic Brewpub, Albuquerque, NM

Category: 48: German-Style Maerzen or Franconian Rotbier – 47 Entries
Gold: Follow the Lederhosen, Moontown Brewing Co., Whitestown, IN
Silver: Red Vespa, Unsung Brewing Co., Tustin, CA
Bronze: Oktoberfest Gemütlichkeit, Wiseacre Brewing Co., Memphis, TN

Category: 49: German-Style Schwarzbier – 88 Entries
Gold: Schwarz Bear, Gatlinburg Brewing Co., Sevierville, TN
Silver: Schwarzbier, Pizza Port Imperial Beach, Imperial Beach, CA
Bronze: Shady Lady, Sky Puppy Brewing, Tampa, FL

Category: 50: German-Style Bock or Maibock – 77 Entries
Gold: Cold Front, Avery Brewing Co., Boulder, CO
Silver: Rosenbock, Ivanhoe Park Lager House, Orlando, FL
Bronze: Maibock, Ocean View Brewing Co., Ocean View, DE

Category: 51: German-Style Doppelbock or Eisbock – 76 Entries
Gold: Curse The Goat, Shoreline Brewery, Michigan City, IN
Silver: Living a Double Life, Wise Man Brewing, Winston-Salem, NC
Bronze: Coconspirator, Victor 23, Portland, OR

Category: 52: American-Style Lager – 107 Entries
Gold: Vacancy Classic, Vacancy Brewing, Austin, TX
Silver: Cole’s Light Lager, Wild Ride Brewing, Redmond, OR
Bronze: Home Run Jack, 14 Cannons, Westlake Village, CA

Category: 53: Contemporary American-Style Lager – 57 Entries
Gold: El Pato Loco, Able Baker Brewing Co., Las Vegas, NV
Silver: Blackberry Smoke American Lager, New Realm Brewing, Atlanta, GA
Bronze: Built to Chill, Bend Brewing Co., Bend, OR

Category: 54: American-Style Pilsener – 84 Entries
Gold: Highwayman, Roadhouse Brewing, Jackson, WY
Silver: Bellevue 1882 Lager, Bellevue Brewing Co., Bellevue, WA
Bronze: Gold Country Pilsner, Auburn Alehouse, Auburn, CA

Category: 55: American-Style Cream Ale – 94 Entries
Gold: Bold Rush, Drake’s Brewing Co., San Leandro, CA
Silver: Amendment Lager, 21st Amendment, San Leandro, CA
Bronze: Was Angeles, Uinta Brewing Co., Salt Lake City, UT

Category: 56: American-Style Amber Lager – 82 Entries
Gold: 40 Mike Mike, Free Roam Brewing Co., Boerne, TX
Silver: Ebb and Flow, Cloudburst Brewing, Seattle, WA
Bronze: Chismosa, Old Caz Beer, Rohnert Park, CA

Category: 57: Australian-Style Pale Ale – 44 Entries
Gold: Breakside Hello My Alien, Breakside Brewery, Portland, OR
Silver: XPA, Craft Coast, San Marcos, CA
Bronze: How’s the Serenity, Original Pattern Brewing, Oakland, CA

Category: 58: International Pale Ale – 97 Entries
Gold: Through The Roof, Arts District Brewing Co., Los Angeles, CA
Silver: Pale, pFriem Family Brewers, Hood River, OR
Bronze: Chur Enough, BKS Artisan Ales, Kansas City, MO

Category: 59: Extra Special Bitter – 52 Entries
Gold: Pale Ale, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. – Chico, Chico, CA
Silver: Railhead Red, Lumberyard Brewing Co., Flagstaff, AZ
Bronze: Velvet Organic ESB, Hopworks Brewery, Portland, OR

Category: 60: New Zealand-Style India Pale Ale – 97 Entries
Gold: Perverse Inverse, Ghost Town Brewing, Oakland, CA
Silver: Loyal to the Soil, Formula Brewing, Issaquah, WA
Bronze: Modern Love, TapRoom Beer Co., San Diego, CA

Category: 61: Barley Wine-Style Ale – 52 Entries
Gold: Grow Old With You, Verboten Brewing, Loveland, CO
Silver: Three Ryes Men, Reuben’s Brews, Seattle, WA
Bronze: Lower De Boom, 21st Amendment, San Leandro, CA

Category: 62: German-Style Koelsch – 116 Entries
Gold: Daycation Gold, Highland Brewing Co., Asheville, NC
Silver: Monger’s Choice, Docent Brewing, San Juan Capistrano, CA
Bronze: Kolsch, Second Street Brewery, Santa Fe, NM

Category: 63: Gose – 45 Entries
Gold: Canoa Quebrada, 277 Craft Beer, Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil
Silver: Gose, Four Generals Brewing, Renton, WA
Bronze: SMBW Basil Lemongrass Gose, Santa Monica Brew Works, Santa
Monica, CA

Category: 64: Berliner-Style Weisse – 35 Entries
Gold: Champagne Toast, Wander Brewing, Bellingham, WA
Silver: East Side Gallery, Iron Hill Brewery, Exton, PA
Bronze: Cactus Makes Perfect, Oregon City Brewing Co., Oregon City, OR

Category: 65: South German-Style Hefeweizen – 121 Entries
Gold: Washout Wheat, Holy City Brewing, N. Charleston, SC
Silver: Shed & Silo, 3 Nations Brewing, Carrollton, TX
Bronze: Hefeweizen, Dru Bru, Cle Elum, WA

Category: 66: German-Style Leichtes or Kristal Weizen – 15 Entries
Gold: Krystal Moon, Blue Moon Brewing Co., Denver, CO
Silver: Tsingtao Wheat Beer, Tsingtao Brewery Co., Qingdao, China
Bronze: Needlerush Hefeweizen, Silver Bluff Brewing Co., Brunswick, GA

Category: 67: South German Bernsteinfarbenes Weizen – 10 Entries
Gold: Apres Hefe, Fat Heads Brewery, Middleburg Heights, OH
Silver: Ayinger Urweisse, Brauerei Aying Franz Inselkammer, Aying, Germany

Category: 68: South German-Style Dunkel Weizen – 29 Entries
Gold: Michael Dorn-Kelweiss, Five Wits Brewing Co., Chattanooga, TN
Silver: Big Banana Brown Dunkelweisen, Shaketown Brewing, North
Vancouver, Canada
Bronze: Junk In Da Trunkel Dunkel, Pizza Port Ocean Beach, San Diego,
CA

Category: 69: South German-Style Weizenbock – 31 Entries
Gold: Weizenbock, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. – Mills River, Mills River, NC
Silver: Alpenglow, Fat Heads Brewery, Middleburg Heights, OH
Bronze: Weihenstephaner Vitus, Bayerische Staatsbrauerei
Weihenstephan, Freising, Germany

Category: 70: German-Style Altbier – 45 Entries
Gold: Lithium, Resonate Brewery, Bellevue, WA
Silver: Alternative Medicine, Lakeville Brewing Co., Lakeville, MN
Bronze: Hinterland Altbier, Hinterland Brewery, Green Bay, WI

Category: 71: Belgian-Style Ale or French-Style Ale – 26 Entries
Gold: Gallus, Cellar West Brewery, Lafayette, CO
Silver: French Kiss, Primeval Brewing, Noblesville, IN
Bronze: Crazy Train, Fretboard Brewing Co., Blue Ash, OH

Category: 72: Belgian-Style Witbier – 64 Entries
Gold: Suntrip, New Terrain Brewing Co., Golden, CO
Silver: Belgian Wheat, Devils Backbone Brewing Co. – Basecamp,
Roseland, VA
Bronze: Hoegaarden White, AB-Inbev Hoegaarden, Hoegaarden, Belgium

Category: 73: Classic Saison – 54 Entries
Gold: Dogwood Saison, Devils Backbone Brewing Co. – Basecamp,
Roseland, VA
Silver: Plough & Harrow, ISM Brewing, Long Beach, CA
Bronze: Belgian Blonde, Frontyard Brewing, Spicewood, TX

Category: 74: Specialty Saison – 40 Entries
Gold: Heirloom, Kane Brewing Co., Ocean, NJ
Silver: Sacred Tree, Phantom Farms Brewing, Cumberland, RI
Bronze: Foeder Aged Saison, New Realm Brewing, Atlanta, GA

Category: 75: Belgian Flanders Oud Bruin or Oud Red Ale – 20 Entries
Gold: Flanders Red, Cerveza 7 Vidas, Tacna, Peru
Silver: Flanders Redux, True Anomaly Brewing Co., Houston, TX
Bronze: Stupid Sexy Flanders, Sun King Brewery, Indianapolis, IN

Category: 76: Belgian-Style Sour Ale – 31 Entries
Gold: Erlton Street 5, The Establishment Brewing Co., Calgary, Canada
Silver: Spontaneous Manifesto 2023, Blind Enthusiasm Brewing Co. – The
Monolith, Edmonton, Canada
Bronze: Funk Yeah, Beachwood Blendery, Huntington Beach, CA

Category: 77: Belgian-Style Blonde Ale – 31 Entries
Gold: Feral Garden Gnome, Liability Brewing Co., Greenville, SC
Silver: NBeer Belgian Blonde Ale, NBeer Craft Brewing Co., Chengdu, China
Bronze: Rector 2025, Absolution Brewing Co., Torrance, CA

Category: 78: Belgian-Style Strong Blonde Ale – 34 Entries
Silver: Damnation, Russian River Brewing Co., Windsor, CA
Bronze: The Cannibal, Iron Hill Brewery, Exton, PA

Category: 79: Belgian-Style Dubbel – 33 Entries
Gold: Size 6, Lost Shoe Brewing & Roasting Co., Marlborough, MA
Silver: Dubbel or Nothing, Monkless Belgian Ales, Bend, OR
Bronze: Discipline Dubbel, Bold Monk Brewing Co., Atlanta, GA

Category: 80: Belgian-Style Tripel – 68 Entries
Gold: Tripel Dog Dare, Big Dog’s Brewing Co., Las Vegas, NV
Silver: Bel Ringer, 9th Hour Brewing Co., Lake Villa, IL
Bronze: La Fin du Monde, Unibroue, Chambly, Canada

Category: 81: Belgian-Style Quadrupel – 25 Entries
Gold: Frosted Monk, RockSolid Brewing Co., Ball Ground, GA
Silver: Traced in Air, Bartlett Hall, San Francisco, CA
Bronze: Urbrew Adventure (Blue) Strong Dark Ale, Urbrew, Handan, China

Category: 82: Belgian-Style Strong Specialty Ale – 38 Entries
Gold: Quadruppel 277, 277 Craft Beer, Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil
Silver: Hertog Jan Grand Prestige Brut, Hertog Jan, Breda, Netherlands
Bronze: Eschaton, Wild Heaven Beer Avondale, Decatur, GA

Category: 83: Belgian Fruit Beer – 70 Entries
Gold: Kriek, New Glarus Brewing Co., New Glarus, WI
Silver: Champ Du Blanc, New Glarus Brewing Co., New Glarus, WI
Bronze: Funk Yeah Peach, Beachwood Blendery, Huntington Beach, CA

Category: 84: English Mild or Bitter – 60 Entries
Gold: Extra Medium Mild, White Oak Brewing, Normal, IL
Silver: So Long, London, Two Frays Brewery, Pittsburgh, PA
Bronze: Chiastolite, Bighand Bros. Brewery, Kyoto, Japan

Category: 85: English Ale – 74 Entries
Gold: Union Jack, Firestone Walker Brewing Co., Paso Robles, CA
Silver: Hopadillo, Karbach Brewing, Houston, TX
Bronze: Shanghai’d IPA, Old Town Brewing, Portland, OR

Category: 86: English-Style Brown Ale – 52 Entries
Gold: Burnout Brown, Mash Lab Brewing, Windsor, CO
Silver: Oscar Wanted a Brown Ale, Pizza Port Solana Beach, Solana Beach, CA
Bronze: Rojo, Barrio Brewing Co., Tucson, AZ

Category: 87: Brown Porter – 49 Entries
Gold: Skidder Brown Ale, Big Timber Brewing, Elkins, WV
Silver: Mother Fuggle, Eudora Brewing Co., Kettering, OH
Bronze: Daisen G Beer Stout, Daisen G Beer – Kumezakura Brewery Co.,
Saihaku-Gun, Japan

Category: 88: Robust Porter – 54 Entries
Gold: Ossuary, Ghost Town Brewing, Oakland, CA
Silver: Robust Porter, Reuben’s Brews, Seattle, WA
Bronze: Blimp Hangar Porter, Tustin Brewing Co., Tustin, CA

Category: 89: Sweet Stout or Cream Stout – 35 Entries
Gold: Moozie, Brink Brewing Co., Cincinnati, OH
Silver: Hoochie Mama, StillFire Brewing, Suwanee, GA
Bronze: Korova, Gnarly Barley Brewing, Hammond, LA

Category: 90: Oatmeal Stout – 48 Entries
Gold: North Tower Stout, Earth Rider Brewery, Superior, WI
Silver: Opacus Oatmeal Stout, StormBreaker Brewing, Portland, OR
Bronze: Dragula, Insurgente, Tijuana, Mexico

Category: 91: British-Style Imperial Stout – 38 Entries
Gold: Wrecking Ball Imperial Stout, No-Li Brewhouse, Spokane, WA
Silver: Fayston Maple Imperial Stout, Lawson’s Finest Liquids, Waitsfield, VT
Bronze: Raven’s Revenge, Beachwood Brewing, Huntington Beach, CA

Category: 92: Old Ale or Strong Ale – 26 Entries
Gold: Mountain Man, Verboten Brewing, Loveland, CO
Silver: Forest Hills, Olde Hickory Brewery, Hickory, NC
Bronze: King in The Castle, Little Brother Brewing – Production,
Kernersville, NC

Category: 93: Irish-Style Red Ale – 97 Entries
Gold: Ridgetop Red, Silver City Brewery, Bremerton, WA
Silver: Outraged Daughters, Wise Man Brewing, Winston-Salem, NC
Bronze: Engine 402, Orange Hat Brewing, Knoxville, OH

Category: 94: Classic Irish-Style Dry Stout – 57 Entries
Gold: Minoh Beer Stout, Minoh Brewery, Minoh-shi, Japan
Silver: Sláinte, Legion Brewing Co., Charlotte, NC
Bronze: Lucky 4 Leaf, Danville Brewing Co., Danville, CA

Category: 95: Export Stout – 38 Entries
Gold: Starway, Barrel Mountain Brewing, Battle Ground, WA
Silver: Der Reisende, Adams Street Brewery, Chicago, IL
Bronze: Stoup Export Stout, Stoup Brewing – Capitol Hill, Seattle, WA

Category: 96: Scottish-Style Ale – 41 Entries
Gold: Stoneykirk Scottish Ale, Lost Street Brewing Co., Durant, OK
Silver: Dragoon Amber, Dragoon Brewing Co., Tucson, AZ
Bronze: The Fulkin, Half Batch Brewing, Hendersonville, TN

Category: 97: Scotch Ale – 44 Entries
Gold: Higher Consciousness, Third Eye Brewing Co., Cincinnati, OH
Silver: The Magnificent Scotch Ale, Silver City Brewery, Bremerton, WA
Bronze: Lord Grizzly, Lost Cabin Beer Co., Rapid City, SD

Category: 98: Golden or Blonde Ale – 102 Entries
Gold: Firemans #4, Real Ale Brewing Co., Blanco, TX
Silver: Now What?, Saddle Mountain Brewing Co., Goodyear, AZ
Bronze: Basecamp Blonde, Hutton & Smith Brewing Co., Chattanooga, TN

Category: 99: American-Style Pale Ale – 128 Entries
Gold: Necrocat, Ghost Town Brewing, Oakland, CA
Silver: Breakside Woodlawn Pale Ale, Breakside Brewery & Taproom,
Milwaukie, OR
Bronze: MadeWest Pale, MadeWest Brewing Co., Ventura, CA

Category: 100: Juicy or Hazy Pale Ale – 98 Entries
Gold: UCHU Relax, UCHU Brewing, Hokuto, Japan
Silver: Wisp, Lumen Beer Co., Omaha, NE
Bronze: Hop Magee, Danville Brewing Co., Danville, CA

Category: 101: American-Style Strong Pale Ale – 110 Entries
Gold: Mordant, Ghost Town Brewing, Oakland, CA
Silver: Westbound IPA, Westbound & Down Brewing Co., Lafayette, CO
Bronze: Gold Label Mai Tai P.A., Alvarado Street Brewery & Grill, Monterey,

Category: 102: Juicy or Hazy Strong Pale Ale – 135 Entries
Gold: Hazy IPA, pFriem Family Brewers, Hood River, OR
Silver: Slice, Lumen Beer Co., Omaha, NE
Bronze: MadeWest Hazy IPA, MadeWest Brewing Co., Ventura, CA

Category: 103: Imperial India Pale Ale – 116 Entries
Gold: Punchface Champion, Grains of Wrath Brewing – Camas, Camas, WA
Silver: Fall On In, MadeWest Brewing Co., Ventura, CA
Bronze: House of Fu!, North Park Beer Co., San Diego, CA

Category: 104: Juicy or Hazy Imperial India Pale Ale – 120 Entries
Gold: Juice Master, Shred Beer Co., Rocklin, CA
Silver: Contains No Juice, Alvarado Street Brewery, Salinas, CA
Bronze: For 4, Brothership Brewing, Mokena, IL

Category: 105: American-Style Amber/Red Ale – 98 Entries
Gold: Singing Coyote, Mountain Rambler Brewery, Bishop, CA
Silver: Matador Red, 818 Brewing, Canoga Park, CA
Bronze: First Amber, Stemma Brewing, Bellingham, WA

Category: 106: Strong Red Ale – 44 Entries
Gold: Peaked In High School, Cloudburst Brewing, Seattle, WA
Silver: Side Hike, Kern River Brewing Co., Kernville, CA
Bronze: Imperial Red, Track 7 Brewing Co., Sacramento, CA

Category: 107: American-Style Brown Ale – 63 Entries
Gold: Brown Ale, Second Street Brewery, Santa Fe, NM
Silver: The Devil in John’s Brown, DevilCraft, Shinagawa-ku, Japan
Bronze: Boxcar Brown, Caboose Brewing Co., Vienna, VA

Category: 108: American-Black Ale or American-Style Stout – 69 Entries
Gold: Breakside Cheat Codes, Breakside Brewery & Taproom, Milwaukie, OR
Silver: American Stout, ColdFire Brewing – Production, Junction City, OR
Bronze: Blackside Snap, Riip Beer Co., Huntington Beach, CA

Category: 109: American-Style Imperial Stout – 44 Entries
Gold: Fulcrum Imperial Stout, ZwanzigZ Brewing, Columbus, IN
Silver: Thunderbolt Stout, Valhöll Brewing, Poulsbo, WA
Bronze: Lights Out, Project 9 Brewing, Seattle, WA

Category: 110: American-Style India Pale Ale – 208 Entries
Gold: Super Slap, Brewery X, Anaheim, CA
Silver: Party Crusher, Beachwood Brewing, Huntington Beach, CA
Bronze: Breakside IPA, Breakside Brewery & Taproom, Milwaukie, OR

Category: 111: Juicy or Hazy India Pale Ale – 290 Entries
Gold: Shifted Visions, Everywhere, Orange, CA
Silver: How To Make Friends, Hana Koa Brewing Co., Honolulu, HI
Bronze: Riverside NEIPA, Guggman Haus Brewing Co., Indianapolis, IN

Category: 112: West Coast-Style India Pale – 253 Entries
Gold: Mosaic Takedown, Pinthouse Brewing, Austin, TX
Silver: Chasmic Absorption Through Whirlpools of Disarray, Ghost Town
Brewing, Oakland, CA
Bronze: Terraform, Wayward Lane Brewing, Schoharie, NY

Category: 201: Tannic Cider
Gold: 2023 Cidre Bouché, 2 Towns Ciderhouse, Corvallis, OR
Silver: English Pub, Portland Cider Co., Clackamas, OR
Bronze: Kingston Black, Bauman’s Cider, Portland, OR

Category: 202: No/Low-Tannin Cider
Gold: Original Gold, Portland Cider Co., Clackamas, OR
Silver: Cosmic Crisp, 2 Towns Ciderhouse, Corvallis, OR
Bronze: 14th Anniversary, 2 Towns Ciderhouse, Corvallis, OR

Category: 203: Fruited Cider
Gold: Raspberry Cosmic Crisp, 2 Towns Ciderhouse, Corvallis, OR
Silver: Bramble, Papa Moon Ciders, Scottsbluff, NE
Bronze: Guava Hard Cider, Coronado Brewing Co., San Diego, CA

Category: 204: Botanical or Spiced Cider
Gold: Honey Lavender, Papa Moon Ciders, Scottsbluff, NE
Silver: Hard Candy Tamarind Earl Grey Cider, Hard Candy, Nanjing, China
Bronze: Apple Pie à La Mode, Six Byrd Cider, Tempe, AZ

Category: 205: Experimental, Barrel-Aged or Specialty Cider
Gold: 2019 Pommeau, 2 Towns Ciderhouse, Corvallis, OR
Silver: Mojave Brewing Barrel Aged Cider, Mojave Brewing Co., Henderson, NV
Bronze: Imperial Bad Apple – Westward Whiskey Barrel Cider, 2 Towns Ciderhouse, Corvallis, OR

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America’s Top 10 Beer Cities For Beer Drinkers

May 3, 2025 by Rick Roberts

Grab your pint glass and buckle up, beer lovers! The U.S. is a frothy paradise for craft beer enthusiasts, with cities bubbling over with breweries, taprooms, and festivals that celebrate the art of the brew. From hop-heavy IPAs to funky sours and crisp lagers, these 10 cities are the ultimate destinations for anyone who thinks life’s too short for bad beer. Let’s dive into the sudsy goodness of America’s top 10 beer cities!

1. Chicago, IL: The Windy City’s Beer Bonanza
Chicago doesn’t just blow hot air—it pours cold brews like nobody’s business. With over 100 breweries, it’s the heavyweight champ of beer destinations. Sip a hazy IPA at Goose Island, geek out over stouts at Revolution Brewing, or get weird with sours at Off Color. Bars like Hopleaf are practically beer museums, and the Chicago Beer Festival is a hophead’s dream. Bonus: the Siebel Institute, a brewing school, means Chicago’s always cooking up something new. Grab a deep-dish pizza and a pint—you’re in for a treat!

2. Pittsburgh, PA: Steel City, Golden Pints
Pittsburgh’s not just about steel; it’s got a heart of gold (or should we say, amber?). With 76 breweries within and around the city and pints averaging a wallet-friendly $4, it’s no wonder this city topped SmartAsset’s beer rankings. Check out Penn Brewery for German-style lagers or Grist House for funky experimental brews. The city’s 9.4 breweries per 100,000 residents means you’re never far from a tap. Raise a glass during Philly Beer Week (yep, Pittsburgh steals some of that vibe) and toast to the Steel City’s sudsy spirit.

3. Asheville, NC: Beer City, USA
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville’s nickname, “Beer City, USA,” is no marketing fluff. With 28.1 breweries per 100,000 people, this artsy town is a craft beer mecca. Wicked Weed’s IPAs are legendary, Burial Beer Co. brings the dark-and-stormy vibes, and Highland Brewing keeps it classic. Visit the Funkatorium for sour beer nirvana or sip through 100+ local beers at taprooms across town. Pair your pint with Asheville’s vibrant art scene, and you’ve got a recipe for a hoppy weekend.

4. Denver, CO: Mile-High Brews
Denver’s beer scene is as lofty as its 5,280-foot elevation. Home to the Great American Beer Festival, this city pours from over 90 breweries, like Great Divide (hello, Yeti Stout!) and Wynkoop, a craft beer pioneer. The Denver Beer Trail guides you through taprooms, and the mountain spring water gives every sip a crisp edge. Whether you’re a lager lover or an IPA fiend, Denver’s got a brew with your name on it. Pro tip: Pace yourself—the altitude hits harder than a double IPA.

5. Portland, OR: The OG Craft Beer Capital
Portland’s been waving the craft beer flag since before it was cool. With a sky-high brewery density, you’ll find gems like Deschutes, Breakside, and Cascade Brewing, the sour beer wizards. The Oregon Brewers Festival is a summer must, and the city’s affordable pints keep your wallet happy. Portland’s all about pushing boundaries—think barrel-aged stouts or kombucha-beer hybrids. Grab a flight, wander the quirky streets, and soak in the Pacific Northwest’s hoppy soul.

6. San Diego, CA: Sunshine and Suds
San Diego’s 150 breweries make it a craft beer powerhouse, with sunny patios perfect for sipping. Stone Brewing, Ballast Point, and Modern Times churn out world-class beers, especially those juicy West Coast IPAs. The city’s year-round beer festivals keep the party going, and the community vibe is unmatched—brewers here are like your best buds. Pair a pint with fish tacos, and you’re living the SoCal dream. Just don’t spill on your flip-flops!

7. Grand Rapids, MI: Beer City, Ale Yeah!
Grand Rapids shares the “Beer City, USA” crown with Asheville, and it’s easy to see why. With over 80 breweries on the Beer City Ale Trail, you’ve got endless options. Founders Brewing Co.’s All Day IPA is a national fave, while Brewery Vivant channels Belgian vibes in a former funeral parlor (spooky-cool!). Hit Siciliano’s Market for rare bottles or join a beer fest—Grand Rapids throws them like nobody’s business. This is Midwest beer love at its finest.

8. Milwaukee, WI: Brew City’s Historic Hops
Milwaukee’s beer legacy is as deep as a barrel-aged stout. Nicknamed “Brew City,” it’s the historic home of Miller, Pabst, and Schlitz, but don’t sleep on modern spots like Lakefront Brewery. Affordable pints and brewery tours steeped in history make this a must-visit. Sip a lager by Lake Michigan or dive into the craft scene at taprooms across town. Milwaukee’s proof that old-school and new-school beer can share the same glass.

9. Cincinnati, OH: Oktoberfest and Over-the-Rhine
Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine district is a beer lover’s playground, with 70 breweries serving up an average of 112 beers each. This city topped SmartAsset’s lists in 2019 and 2020 for good reason—its craft scene is electric. The Oktoberfest Zinzinnati, the largest in the U.S., is a bucket-list event, with pretzels, polka, and pints galore. Whether you’re at Rhinegeist or MadTree, Cincy’s brews are as bold as its chili-topped spaghetti. Don’t knock it ‘til you try it!

10. Bend, OR: Small Town, Big Beers
Bend might be small, but its beer scene is mighty. With 26 breweries and a sky-high per capita ratio, this Central Oregon gem punches above its weight. Deschutes Brewery’s Mirror Pond Pale Ale is a classic, while Monkless Belgian Ales brings Euro flair. The Bend BrewFest is a summer highlight, and the Deschutes River backdrop makes every brewery visit Instagram-worthy. Sip, hike, repeat—Bend’s the perfect beer-and-nature combo.

Why These Cities?
These top 10 beer cities aren’t just about quantity (though they’ve got breweries galore). It’s the vibe—think passionate brewers, welcoming taprooms, and festivals that turn strangers into drinking buddies. Some, like Pittsburgh and Cincinnati, shine for affordability and density, per SmartAsset’s data-driven rankings. Others, like Asheville and Grand Rapids, win hearts with their “Beer City” swagger, as voted by USA TODAY readers. Whether you’re chasing sours, stouts, or just a good time, these spots deliver.

Plan Your Beer-cation!
Ready to hit the road? Check out brewery trails like Denver’s or Grand Rapids’ for curated sipping. Time your trip for festivals like Oktoberfest Zinzinnati or the Great American Beer Festival for maximum fun. And don’t forget to pair your pints with local grub—think brats in Milwaukee or tacos in San Diego. Wherever you go, these cities prove that in the U.S., the beer’s always cold, and the vibes are always warm. Cheers!

The History of the August Schell Brewing Company

May 3, 2025 by Andrew Innes

Nestled along the Cottonwood River in New Ulm, Minnesota, the August Schell Brewing Company stands as a testament to family tradition, German heritage, and unwavering resilience. Founded in 1860 by German immigrant August Schell, it is the second-oldest family-owned brewery in the United States, surpassed only by D.G. Yuengling & Son. As one of the few pre-Prohibition breweries still operating under family control, Schell’s has weathered wars, economic turmoil, and the 13-year ordeal of Prohibition, emerging as a cornerstone of American brewing history. This article delves into the brewery’s origins, its survival through Prohibition, and its enduring legacy as a craft beer pioneer.

The History of August Schell Brewing Company
August Schell was born on February 15, 1828, in Durbach, in the Grand Duchy of Baden, Germany. At age 20, he immigrated to the United States in 1848, seeking opportunity amid the political unrest following the failed revolutions in Europe. After working as a machinist in Cincinnati, Ohio, Schell joined a group of German immigrants from the Turner Society, a cultural and gymnastic organization, to co-found the town of New Ulm, Minnesota, in 1857. Recognizing the growing German population’s thirst for traditional beer, Schell partnered with Jacob Bernhardt, a former brewmaster, to establish a small brewery in 1860. They chose a scenic site two miles from New Ulm’s center, where spring water and ice from the Cottonwood River provided ideal brewing conditions.

The brewery began modestly, producing about 200 barrels annually. In 1866, Schell bought out Bernhardt, assuming sole ownership and initiating an unbroken chain of family stewardship. Despite challenges like the Dakota War of 1862, which damaged much of New Ulm but spared the brewery, Schell’s operation grew steadily. By the 1880s, the family built a grand mansion, gardens, and a deer park on the brewery grounds, now listed on the National Register of Historic Sites. August invested in advanced equipment, including a $25,000 copper brew kettle, optimizing production for the acidic wort and beer. When August died in 1891, his wife, Theresa, inherited the brewery, with their son Otto, who had studied brewing in Germany, taking over management.

Modernization and Pre-Prohibition Growth
Otto Schell modernized the brewery, introducing refrigeration by 1900, which replaced the reliance on river ice stored in caves to control fermentation temperatures. This allowed year-round brewing, boosting production. The brewery was incorporated in 1902 as the August Schell Brewing Company, with Otto as president, Theresa as vice-president, and George Marti, August’s son-in-law, as secretary-treasurer. The company thrived, serving the region’s German-American communities, though it faced competition from larger breweries like Anheuser-Busch and local rivals in New Ulm, such as Hauenstein Brewery. Otto’s sudden death in 1911, followed by Theresa’s four months later, left George Marti in charge, steering the brewery toward its greatest challenge: Prohibition.

Surviving Prohibition: Adaptation and Grit
The passage of the 18th Amendment in 1919, enacting Prohibition, banned the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages, devastating the American brewing industry. Of the roughly 1,900 breweries operating in 1915, only about 600 survived by 1934. Schell’s was among the fortunate few, thanks to strategic adaptation led by George Marti. The brewery shifted to producing “near-beer” (a low-alcohol beverage with less than 0.5% ABV, legal during Prohibition), soft drinks, and candy. It also began making 1919 Root Beer, named for the year Prohibition began, which remains a popular product today.

To generate income, Schell’s sold off taverns and properties it owned in nearby towns, which had previously ensured exclusive distribution of its beer. A ledger from the 1920s, displayed in the brewery’s museum, records inventories of these non-alcoholic products, while an ebulliometer used to verify near-beer’s alcohol content underscores the scrutiny breweries faced. Despite these efforts, survival was precarious, and the brewery nearly closed. Family lore recounts illicit moonshining, with a still—later destroyed by George Marti to avoid federal detection—kept in the brewery museum as a relic of those desperate times.

When Prohibition ended with the 21st Amendment in 1933, Schell’s swiftly resumed brewing. Having maintained its equipment, the transition was smoother than for many competitors. George Marti’s leadership ensured the brewery’s survival, but he died in 1934, passing the reins to his wife, Emma, and son, Alfred (“Al”) Marti, who became president and manager.

Post-Prohibition Recovery and Challenges
Al Marti led Schell’s through the post-Prohibition era, a time of industry consolidation. By the 1950s, large breweries like Budweiser and Miller dominated, out-advertising smaller operations. Schell’s maintained a regional foothold, bolstered by New Ulm’s tight-knit German community. Al added local flair by founding the Schell’s Hobo Band, a community ensemble still active today. However, by the 1970s, only 42 U.S. breweries remained, and Schell’s faced severe financial strain. In a desperate move, the brewery sold lumber from a massive black walnut tree on its grounds to keep its doors open.

In 1969, Al retired, and his son Warren Marti took over. Warren diversified the product line with Schell’s Export Beer, Schell’s Light Beer, and the continued production of 1919 Root Beer. Despite these efforts, the rise of “mega-breweries” threatened small operations. Warren’s persistence and the brewery’s historical grounds, including the sale of the walnut tree, were critical to its survival.

The Craft Beer Renaissance and Modern Success
The turning point came in 1984 when Warren’s son, Ted Marti, assumed operations, becoming president in 1985. Trained at the Siebel Institute of Brewing and having studied under German brewers, Ted spearheaded Schell’s entry into the craft beer movement. In 1984, Schell’s brewed the first American wheat beer since Prohibition, a German-style Weiss Beer that evolved into its seasonal Hefeweizen. Ted introduced craft brews like Schell’s Pilsener, which won a gold medal at the Great American Beer Festival in 1988, and others, such as Alt and Pale Ale, which earned medals for their quality. By the 1990s, Schell’s produced 38 different beers, establishing a reputation for innovation.

In 2002, Schell’s acquired the Grain Belt brand after the Minnesota Brewing Company’s bankruptcy, expanding its portfolio with varieties like Grain Belt Nordeast (2010) and Southwest Cerveza (2019). A state-of-the-art brewhouse added in 1999 enhanced production capacity, while a gift shop and taproom opened in 2005, boosting tourism. The brewery’s grounds, with their historic mansion and gardens, draw thousands annually for tours, beer tastings, and events like Bock Fest and Oktoberfest, reinforcing its cultural significance.

Ted’s sons—Jace, Kyle, and Franz—represent the sixth generation, with Jace leading the Noble Star Collection of sour Berliner Weisse beers until his departure in 2024 to pursue distilling. The Starkeller facility, opened for these sour ales, now serves as a taproom. In 2020, Schell’s celebrated its 160th anniversary with the “Shift Happens” series, honoring its adaptability and Ted’s transition to his sons’ leadership. Today, Schell’s brews about 110,000 barrels annually, with 85% of sales in Minnesota, and distributes to several Midwestern states.

Legacy and Cultural Impact
The August Schell Brewing Company’s endurance is remarkable in an industry where most pre-Prohibition breweries vanished. Its survival stems from family dedication, strategic adaptation, and a deep connection to German heritage. The brewery’s focus on traditional German-style lagers and ales, combined with craft beer innovation, has earned it accolades, including a national reputation for Pilsners and Weiss beers. Its grounds, listed on the National Register of Historic Sites, and events like Bock Fest embody its role as a cultural hub in New Ulm.

Schell’s also reflects broader themes of German-American entrepreneurship. August’s involvement with the Turner Society highlights the role of ethnic networks in building businesses, while the brewery’s navigation of Prohibition and industry consolidation showcases resilience. Unlike many contemporaries, such as Mankato Brewing Co., which closed in 1969, Schell’s thrived by anticipating trends and maintaining regional loyalty.

As Ted Marti steps back, his sons are poised to carry the brewery forward, blending tradition with innovation. From August’s frontier vision to Ted’s craft beer revolution, Schell’s remains a beacon of family-owned brewing, proving that, as their 2020 campaign declared, “Shift Happens.” Here’s to a brewery that has poured history, one beer at a time, for over 160 years.

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Ben Affleck Has A Big, Fat, Stupid Mouth IPA: A Beer with a Bold Name and Bolder Flavor

May 3, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

In the world of craft beer, where names often lean into the quirky or provocative, Printer’s Ale Manufacturing Co. out of Carrollton, Georgia, has raised the bar with their New England IPA, Ben Affleck Has A Big, Fat, Stupid Mouth. This beer, a draft-only offering in the Atlanta market, isn’t just a catchy name—it’s a juicy, hazy triumph that delivers on flavor while poking playful fun at Hollywood’s ever-polarizing Ben Affleck.

The Beer Behind the Name
Let’s get one thing straight: Printer’s Ale isn’t throwing shade at Affleck out of malice. As they’ve stated, they don’t hate the guy—they just found his casting as Batman a bit… questionable, and his on-screen mouth a tad distracting. The name is a tongue-in-cheek nod to Affleck’s larger-than-life persona, and the beer itself is anything but a gimmick. With a 7.1% ABV and a rating of 4.1 out of 5 from 134 reviews on Untappd, this IPA has won over craft beer fans with its bold profile and smooth execution.

Ben Affleck Has A Big, Fat, Stupid Mouth is a New England-style IPA, known for its hazy appearance, juicy fruit flavors, and soft mouthfeel. Brewed with Citra, Galaxy, and Newzill hops, it bursts with tropical notes—think mango, pineapple, and citrus zest—balanced by a subtle bitterness that keeps it refreshing. Unlike some NEIPAs, this one skips the lactose, letting the hops shine without a creamy heft. The result is a medium-bodied beer that’s smooth yet punchy, living up to its description as “a big, fat, juicy beer that is ready to win you over with all the haze and mystery.”

A Hero No One Asked For, But Everyone Deserves
Printer’s Ale markets this beer as “the hero no one asked for but the beer everyone deserves,” and it’s easy to see why. It’s not just about the name’s irreverence; it’s about crafting a beer that stands out in a crowded IPA landscape. The brewery’s Instagram showcases the beer’s vibrant, cloudy pour, often served at local spots like The Nest Kennesaw, Westside Motor Lounge, and Mellow Mushroom, where fans have praised its drinkability and bold hop character.

Reviews on Untappd highlight its appeal. One drinker, Valerie Mueller, called it “excellent” and one of her favorites, while others have earned “Haze for Days” badges for sipping this cloudy delight. Posts from late 2023 show it pouring at various Atlanta-area taprooms, with fans snapping photos of its golden haze and raving about its juicy profile.

The Affleck Connection: Why the Name?
The name Ben Affleck Has A Big, Fat, Stupid Mouth stems from Printer’s Ale’s cheeky take on Affleck’s Batman role, particularly in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. They’ve noted his “freakin’ huge” mouth as a visual quirk, but the beer isn’t a roast—it’s a celebration of fun, bold choices, much like Affleck’s own career. From Oscar-winning screenwriter (Good Will Hunting) to polarizing superhero, Affleck’s journey mirrors the beer’s audacity: it’s unapologetic, divisive, and undeniably memorable.

The brewery’s lighthearted jab also taps into a cultural moment. Affleck has long been meme fodder, from “Sad Affleck” videos to paparazzi shots of him smoking or spilling Dunkin’ coffee. Yet, he’s also been open about his struggles with addiction and fame, earning empathy from many. This beer, in a way, captures that duality—mocking the Hollywood caricature while offering something genuinely enjoyable to sip on.

Where to Find It
Available exclusively on draft in Atlanta and surrounding areas, Ben Affleck Has A Big, Fat, Stupid Mouth is distributed through Atlanta Beverage in Georgia. Check Printer’s Ale’s Instagram (@printersbeer) for updates on where it’s pouring next. Popular spots include Printer’s Ale’s own taproom, IPPS, and La Trattoria: A Classic Italian Kitchen, where it’s been a hit with locals.

Final Sip
Printer’s Ale has crafted more than just a beer with a headline-grabbing name. Ben Affleck Has A Big, Fat, Stupid Mouth is a well-executed NEIPA that balances humor with quality. It’s a reminder that craft beer can be playful without sacrificing substance, much like a good Affleck flick—love him or hate him, you can’t look away. So, grab a pint, raise a glass to bold choices, and enjoy this hazy hero that’s as juicy as the gossip it’s named for.

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