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craft lager

The Top 10 Oldest Beer Brands in America – Yuengling #1

August 2, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

The Top 10 Oldest Beers in America - Yuengling #1

1. Yuengling Lager
Since 1829, Yuengling Lager has been pouring smooth, amber-hued goodness from Pennsylvania’s D.G. Yuengling & Son Inc., America’s oldest brewery. This crisp, classic lager balances malt sweetness with a touch of hoppy bite, making it a go-to for backyard barbecues or cozy pub nights. Crack open a cold one and sip on nearly two centuries of brewing tradition!

2. Old Milwaukee
Born in Wisconsin in 1849, Old Milwaukee, crafted by Pabst Brewing Company, is a no-frills American lager that’s been refreshing folks for generations. With its light, clean taste and subtle malt notes, it’s the perfect companion for a night of darts or cheering on your team. Affordable and timeless, it’s a beer that keeps it real.

3. Schlitz
Schlitz, another Wisconsin gem from 1849 under Pabst Brewing Company, once claimed the title of “The Beer That Made Milwaukee Famous.” Its golden, crisp profile with a smooth finish makes it a nostalgic pick for cracking open at tailgates or poker nights. Raise a can to this iconic lager’s enduring legacy!

4. Stroh’s
Hailing from Michigan since 1850, Stroh’s, now part of Pabst Brewing Company, delivers a bold, full-bodied lager with a rich, malty backbone. Perfect for sipping around a campfire or pairing with a hearty burger, this classic brew carries the spirit of Detroit’s brewing heritage in every refreshing gulp.

5. Hamm’s
Minnesota’s Hamm’s, born in 1865 and brewed by Molson Coors, is the beer “from the land of sky-blue waters.” Its light, crisp flavor with a hint of sweetness makes it a crowd-pleaser at lakefront cookouts or game-day watch parties. Pop open a Hamm’s and let its retro vibe transport you to simpler times.

6. Leinenkugel’s Original
Since 1867, Wisconsin’s Leinenkugel’s Original, crafted by Molson Coors, has been a Midwest staple with its clean, balanced lager taste. Its subtle malt and hop harmony makes it ideal for sipping on a porch swing or at a summer festival. This classic brew is like a taste of Wisconsin’s soul in every bottle.

7. Coors Banquet
Coors Banquet, born in Colorado in 1873 by Molson Coors, is the golden lager that fueled the Wild West. Its crisp, slightly fruity flavor and smooth finish make it a favorite for cracking open after a hike or at a lively saloon-style gathering. Stubbornly original, it’s a beer that stands the test of time.

8. Budweiser
Introduced in 1876 by Anheuser-Busch InBev in Missouri, Budweiser is the “King of Beers” with its iconic red label and crisp, clean taste. This medium-bodied lager, with its rice-driven smoothness, pairs perfectly with burgers, wings, or a night of karaoke. Raise a Bud to America’s classic beer legacy!

9. Genesee
New York’s Genesee, brewed since 1878 by Genesee Brewing Company, is a creamy, easy-drinking lager with a touch of malt sweetness. Whether you’re grilling by the lake or kicking back at a dive bar, “Genny” delivers a smooth, refreshing vibe that’s been a Northeast favorite for over a century.

10. Ballantine IPA
New Jersey’s Ballantine IPA, born in 1878 and now under Pabst Brewing Company, is a pioneer of American IPAs. Its bold, hoppy bite with piney and citrusy notes makes it a great match for spicy tacos or a lively trivia night. This historic brew brings craft beer swagger to any occasion.

The Next Five

11. Lone Star
Since 1884, Texas’ Lone Star, brewed by Pabst Brewing Company, has been the “National Beer of Texas.” This crisp, light lager with a hint of corn sweetness is perfect for sipping under the stars at a barbecue or two-stepping at a honky-tonk. Saddle up with a Lone Star and embrace the Lone Star State vibe!

12. National Bohemian
Maryland’s National Bohemian, or “Natty Boh,” has been a Baltimore icon since 1885, brewed by Pabst Brewing Company. Its light, crisp flavor with a touch of malt makes it a go-to for crab feasts or cheering on the Orioles. Crack open a Natty Boh and join the Chesapeake Bay party!

13. Narragansett
Rhode Island’s Narragansett, brewed since 1890 by Narragansett Brewing Company, is a refreshing lager with a clean, slightly sweet profile. Perfect for clambakes, beach bonfires, or a casual night at the bar, “Gansett” brings New England charm to every sip. Hi, neighbor—have a ‘Gansett!

14. Michelob Original Lager
Missouri’s Michelob Original Lager, introduced in 1896 by Anheuser-Busch InBev, offers a refined, medium-bodied taste with a smooth, malty finish. Ideal for upscale barbecues or pairing with a charcuterie board, this classic lager brings a touch of sophistication to any beer-friendly moment.

15. Anchor Steam Beer
California’s Anchor Steam Beer, crafted since 1896 by Anchor Brewing Company, is a trailblazer of the craft beer movement. Its unique, amber-hued steam beer style blends crisp lager notes with ale-like warmth, making it perfect for sipping at a San Francisco pub or a craft beer tasting. Cheers to a West Coast legend!(Hopefully will be back soon)

 

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Filed Under: Beer, craft lager, craftbeer

2023 World Beer Cup Medal Winners

May 11, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

2023 World Beer Cup Medal Winners

In April 2023, Nashville’s Music City Center buzzed with the clink of tasting glasses as the Brewers Association hosted the 15th biennial World Beer Cup, often dubbed the “Olympics of Beer.” A record 10,213 entries from 2,376 breweries across 51 countries vied for 307 medals in 103 style categories, judged blind by an international panel of 303 experts over three intense days. Gold medals crowned standout brews like WeldWerks Brewing Co.’s Juicy Bits New England IPA from Colorado, pFriem Family Brewers’ Pilsner from Oregon, and Japan’s Ise Kadoya Brewery’s Hazy IPA, while Brazil’s Cervejaria Overall took home Champion Brewery honors in the small-brewing category. Amid craft-beer’s post-pandemic rebound, the event celebrated global innovation and camaraderie, proving that excellence in brewing knows no borders.

2023 World Beer Cup Medal Winners

Category 1: American Wheat Beer – 63 Entries
Gold: Taildragger 5G, Saddle Mountain Brewing Co., Goodyear, AZ
Silver: Meister, Eppig Brewing, Vista, CA
Bronze: Miner’s Gold, Lewis & Clark Brewing Co., Helena, MT

Category 2: Fruit Beer – 77 Entries
Gold: Yuzu KSA, Fort Point Beer Co., San Francisco, CA
Silver: Limelight, Epidemic Ales, Concord, CA
Bronze: Norma Jeane, Five Stones Artisan Brewery, New Braunfels, TX

Category 3: Fruit Wheat Beer – 96 Entries
Gold: Slice of Paradise Yuzu Wheat, BREWHALL, Vancouver, Canada
Silver: Sunny Little Thing, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. – Mills River, NC
Bronze: Spring Valley Jazzberry, Spring Valley Brewery,
Kyoto, Japan

Category 4: Field Beer – 78 Entries
Gold: Cucumber Crush, 10 Barrel Brewing Co. – Bend Pub, Bend, OR
Silver: Beets, Town Square Brewing Co., Edmonton, Canada
Bronze: Imperial Peanuts & Crackerjack, The Mitten Brewing Co.,
Grand Rapids, MI

Category 5: Pumpkin Beer – 37 Entries
Gold: Pumpkin Ale, Backpocket Brewing, Coralville, IA
Silver: Pumpkinator, Saint Arnold Brewing Co., Houston, TX
Bronze: Jack O’Lantern Ale, Bond’s Brewing Co., Laramie, WY

Category 6: Chili Beer – 66 Entries
Gold: Yellow Fever, Comrade Brewing Co., Denver, CO
Silver: Kimchi Sour, Dokkaebier, Oakland, CA
Bronze: Oaxaca Choca Mexican Chocolate Stout, New Realm Brewing
Co. – Charleston, SC

Category 7: Herb and Spice Beer – 103 Entries
Gold: Pumpernickel Porter, Vintage Brewing Co., Sauk City, WI
Silver: Fore!, Meanwhile Brewing Co., Austin, TX
Bronze: Shaketown Grisette W/ Szechuan Peppercorns, Shaketown
Brewing, North Vancouver, Canada

Category 8: Chocolate Beer – 68 Entries
Gold: Midnight Hike, River North Brewery – RiNo, Denver, CO
Silver: Chocolate Stout, Fort Myers Brewing Co., Fort Myers, FL
Bronze: German Chocolate Cake, D9 Brewing Co., Huntersville, NC

Category 9: Coffee Beer – 74 Entries
Gold: Daybreak, Wolf’s Ridge Brewing – Production Operations,
Columbus, OH
Silver: Neckar Coffee Oatmeal Brown, Sockeye Brewing, Boise, ID
Bronze: Alchemist Breakfast, Flying Basset Brewing, Gilbert, AZ

Category 10: Coffee Stout or Porter – 110 Entries
Gold: Brunch Stout, Beale’s Beer, Bedford, VA
Silver: Mocha Cow, Sunriver Brewing Co., Sunriver, OR
Bronze: Coffee Roasters, Uhl’s Brewing Co., Boulder, CO
Winners List

Category 11: Specialty Beer – 41 Entries
Gold: Imperial Maple Sunday, Lone Pine Brewing Co. – Portland
Taproom, Portland, ME
Silver: Mad River Maple, Lawson’s Finest Liquids, Waitsfield, VT
Bronze: Coco Burrito Supreme, Shoe Tree Brewing Co. – Minden,
Minden, NV

Category 12: Rye Beer – 58 Entries
Gold: The Hills Have Ryes, Spearfish Brewing Co., Spearfish, SD
Silver: Philly Special, Clandestine Brewing, San Jose, CA
Bronze: Pecan Street Rye Lager, Pecan Street Brewing, Johnson City, TX

Category 13: Honey Beer – 60 Entries
Gold: BeeLoved, 10 Barrel Brewing Co. – Bend Pub, Bend, OR
Silver: Smashing Honey Blonde, Hoppin’ Frog Brewery, Akron, OH
Bronze: Basic B@tch, My Yard Live Beer Co., San Marcos, CA

Category 14: Non-Alcohol Beer – 146 Entries
Gold: Superb-Owl, Uiltje Brewing Co., Haarlem, Netherlands
Silver: Just the Haze, Boston Beer Co.–Samuel Adams Brewing Co.,
Boston, MA
Bronze: Galactic Extra Dark, Big Drop Brewing Co., Wilmington, DE

Category 15: Session Beer or Belgian-Style Table Beer – 60 Entries
Gold: First To Fall, The Good Society Brewery & Public House, Seattle, WA
Silver: OG Kush, Roadhouse Brewing Co. – The Pub and Eatery,
Jackson, WY
Bronze: Oblique & Bent, The Big Friendly, Oklahoma City, OK

Category 16: Session India Pale Ale – 116 Entries
Gold: Wild Gravity, Bend Brewing Co., Bend, OR
Silver: Trump Hands, Cannonball Creek Brewing Co., Golden, CO
Bronze: Summatime, 603 Brewery, Londonderry, NH

Category 17: Strong Porter – 66 Entries
Gold: Baltic Porter, State 48 Brewery, Phoenix, AZ
Silver: Lampshade Porter, Starr Brothers Brewing Co., Albuquerque, NM
Bronze: Prussian River – Baltic Porter, 14 Cannons Brewing Co., Westlake
Village, CA

Category 18: Other Strong Beer – 35 Entries
Gold: Superswell, Pelican Brewing Co. – Tillamook, Tillamook, OR
Silver: Deluxe, Silver City Brewery, Bremerton, WA
Bronze: Snowburn, River North Brewery – RiNo, Denver, CO

Category 19: Experimental Beer – 104 Entries
Gold: Abrette Sésamo #1, Juguetes Perdidos, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Silver: Japanese Rice Lager, Hi-Wire Brewing – South Slope Specialty
Brewery, Asheville, NC
Bronze: Hop Stalker, Fat Head’s Brewery & Saloon, North Olmsted, OH

Category 20: Experimental India Pale Ale – 116 Entries
Silver: Sky Flowers IPA, Mountains Walking Brewery, Bozeman, MT
Bronze: Voodoo Ranger Juice Force IPA, New Belgium Brewing Co.
– Asheville, Asheville, NC

Category 21: Experimental Wood-Aged Beer – 50 Entries
Gold: Golden Fungi, IMBIB Custom Brews, Reno, NV
Silver: Apple Pomace Puncheon, Angel City Brewery, Los Angeles, CA
Bronze: Soul Shakedown Party, Sun King Brewery- Indianapolis,
Indianapolis, IN

Category 22: Historical Beer – 52 Entries
Gold: Decorah Nordic Gruit, PIVO Brewery, Calmar, IA
Silver: Two Teef, Guanella Pass Brewing Co., Georgetown, CO
Bronze: Katie’s Love Poem, Switchback Brewing Co., Burlington, VT

Category 23: Gluten-Free Beer – 56 Entries
Gold: Ghostfish 8th Anniversary Beer, Ghostfish Brewing Co., Seattle, WA
Silver: Seven Spice Anniversary Saison, Holidaily Brewing Co., Golden, CO
Bronze: Ripped Jeans and Wolf Shirts, ALT Brew, Madison, WI

Category 24: American-Belgo-Style Ale – 44 Entries
Gold: Doris’ Jaguar, BREW CLASSIC, Kanazawa City, Japan
Silver: Trappist in Paradise, 49th State Brewing, Anchorage, AK
Bronze: Beer for the Soul, Sketchbook Brewing Co., Evanston, IL

Category 25: American-Style Sour Ale – 167 Entries
Gold: Poolside Chill, Escape Brewing Co., Trinity, FL
Silver: Midnight Jam, Golden Road Brewery, Los Angeles, CA
Bronze: Deck Jockey, Bauhaus Brew Labs, Minneapolis, MN

Category 26: Brett Beer – 62 Entries
Gold: Four Threads, Cinderlands Beer Co. – Foederhouse, Pittsburgh, PA
Silver: Templin Family Tripple Brett, Templin Family Brewing,
Salt Lake City, UT
Bronze: Saison 750.3, Kros Strain Brewing Co., La Vista, NE

Category 27: Mixed-Culture Brett Beer – 65 Entries
Gold: Knitting Circle S3 Batch C, Fair Isle Brewing, Seattle, WA
Silver: Barrel Farm, Monday Night Brewing – Garage, Atlanta, GA
Bronze: Tove, Fair Isle Brewing, Seattle, WA

Category 28: Wood- and Barrel-Aged Beer – 58 Entries
Gold: Ginette, Jessup Farm Barrel House, Fort Collins, CO
Silver: Temporary Paradise, Bull & Bush Brewery, Denver, CO
Bronze: Sensationator, Deschutes Brewery & Public House –
Portland, OR

Category 29: Wood- and Barrel-Aged Strong Beer – 168 Entries
Gold: Old Chungus, Confluence Brewing Co., Des Moines, IA
Silver: Bass Clef, HiDef Brewing, Los Angeles, CA
Bronze: Old E, But a Good E, Big Dog’s Brewing Co., Las Vegas, NV

Category 30: Wood- and Barrel-Aged Strong Stout – 202 Entries
Gold: Big Mistake, 11 Below Brewing Co., Houston, TX
Silver: BA Sexual Chocolate, Foothills Brewing, Winston-Salem, NC
Bronze: Vladislav, Diebolt Brewing Co., Denver, CO
Winners List

Category 31: Wood- and Barrel-Aged Sour Beer – 39 Entries
Gold: Scots Gone Wild, Real Ale Brewing Co., Blanco, TX
Silver: Golden Sour, Austin Beerworks, Austin, TX
Bronze: Dark Daze, Lovibonds Brewery, Henley-on-Thames, United
Kingdom

Category 32: Fruited Wood- and Barrel-Aged Sour Beer – 60 Entries
Gold: Margot, Lamplighter Brewing Co., Cambridge, MA
Silver: Something Something Something Dark Sour, Prison City
Brewing, Auburn, NY
Bronze: Golden Girls, Sun King Brewery – Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN

Category 33: Kellerbier or Zwickelbier – 88 Entries
Gold: Keller Pils, Lost and Grounded Brewers, Bristol, United Kingdom
Silver: Taiyo no Lager, Miyazaki Hideji Beer Co., Nobeoka, Japan
Bronze: Schlappeseppel Kellerbier, Eder & Heylands Brauerei,
Großostheim, Germany

Category 34: Smoke Beer – 98 Entries
Gold: Unearthing the Orb, Resolute Brewing Co., Centennial, CO
Silver: Smokehaus Bock, Devils Backbone Basecamp Brewpub &
Meadows, Roseland, VA
Bronze: Colossal 2, Port City Brewing Co., Alexandria, VA

Category 35: International Light Lager – 220 Entries
Gold: Anne Bonny, Corsaire – Microbrasserie Pirate, Lévis, Canada
Silver: 3Speed, Amsterdam Brewing Co., Toronto, Canada
Bronze: Ultra Secret Enigma, Liability Brewing Co., Greenville, SC

Category 36: International Pilsener – 129 Entries
Gold: Little Wing, Horse Thief Hollow Brewing Co., Chicago, IL
Silver: Mexican Lager, Silver Bluff Brewing Co., Brunswick, GA
Bronze: Icicle Premium Pilsner, Icicle Brewing Co., Leavenworth, WA

Category 37: International Lager – 97 Entries
Gold: Japanese Lager, pFriem Family Brewers, Hood River, OR
Silver: KQ Express, Topa Topa Brewing Co. – HQ, Ventura, CA
Bronze: You’re a Funny Guy, The Empourium Brewing Co., Denver, CO

Category 38: Hoppy Lager – 168 Entries
Gold: Imagine 14 Years, Freetail Brewing Co., San Antonio, TX
Silver: Lasso Pils, Pinthouse Brewing, Austin, TX
Bronze: Spaghetti Handshake, Lenny Boy Brewing Co., Charlotte, NC

Category 39: International Dark Lager – 154 Entries
Gold: Basic Ought, Basic City Beer Co., Waynesboro, VA
Silver: Mother in Lager, Karbach Brewing Co., Houston, TX
Bronze: Tmavé Pivo, Ten Eyck Brewing Co., Queenstown, MD

Category 40: German-Style Pilsener – 233 Entries
Gold: Pils, Von Ebert Brewing – Pearl, Portland, OR
Silver: Dollar Pils Y’all, Holler Brewing Co., Houston, TX
Bronze: Bibo, Creature Comforts Brewing Co. – Southern Mills, Athens, GA

Category 41: Bohemian-Style Pilsener – 160 Entries
Gold: Polaris Pilsner, Chainline Brewing Co., Kirkland, WA
Silver: Bohemian Pilsner, von Trapp Brewing, Stowe, VT
Bronze: Tahoe Pilz, FiftyFifty Brewing Co., Truckee, CA

Category 42: Munich-Style Helles – 178 Entries
Gold: Tates Helles, Oyster City Brewing Co., Apalachicola, FL
Silver: Helles, Utepils Brewing, Minneapolis, MN
Bronze: Chuckanut Helles, Chuckanut Brewery, Burlington, WA

Category 43: Dortmunder/Export or German-Style Oktoberfest – 66
Entries
Gold: Festbier, Brick West Brewing Co., Spokane, WA
Silver: Gatlin Gold, Gatlin Hall Brewing, Orlando, FL
Bronze: Bobber Lager, Logboat Brewing Co., Columbia, MO

Category 44: Vienna-Style Lager – 109 Entries
Gold: Ramstein Northern Hills Amber Lager, High Point Brewing Co.,
Butler, NJ
Silver: Austrian Dreams, Ornery Beer Co., Fairfax, VA
Bronze: V for Vienna, Ex Novo Brewing Co. – Corrales, Corrales, NM

Category 45: German-Style Maerzen or Franconian-Style Rotbier –
83 Entries
Gold: Capri-derhosen, Quarter Celtic Brewpub, Albuquerque, NM
Silver: Strange Fest, Strange Craft Beer Co., Denver, CO
Bronze: Full Quiver Märzen, Black Hoof Brewing Co., Leesburg, VA

Category 46: German-Style Schwarzbier – 115 Entries
Gold: Schwarzbier, Incendiary Brewing Co. – Westbend, Lewisville, NC
Silver: Black Hoodie, Faction Brewing, Alameda, CA
Bronze: Miner, Czig Meister Brewing Co., Hackettstown, NJ

Category 47: German-Style Bock or Maibock – 96 Entries
Gold: ChewBOCKa, Confluence Brewing Co., Des Moines, IA
Silver: Nose Over Tail, Pollyanna Brewing Co. – Lemont, Lemont, IL
Bronze: Redvolution, Birrificio Otus, Bergamo, Italy

Category 48: German-Style Doppelbock or Eisbock – 102 Entries
Gold: Emulator, 3rd Planet Brewing, Niceville, FL
Silver: Execrator, Resolute Brewing Co., Centennial, CO
Bronze: Lucubrator Dopplebock, Occidental Brewing Co., Portland, OR

Category 49: American-Style Lager – 105 Entries
Gold: Tahoe American Lager, FiftyFifty Brewing Co., Truckee, CA
Silver: Down South, Appalachian Mountain Brewery – Boone,
Boone, NC
Bronze: Cole’s Lager, Wild Ride Brewing, Redmond, OR

Category 50: Contemporary American-Style Lager – 97 Entries
Gold: Macroeconomics, Columbia Craft Brewing Co., Columbia, SC
Silver: Base Camp LagerBier, Upward Brewing Co., Livingston Manor, NY
Bronze: Blackberry Smoke American Lager, New Realm Brewing Co. –
Atlanta, Atlanta, GA

Category 51: American-Style Pilsener – 104 Entries
Gold: O.G Pils, von C Brewing, Norristown, PA
Silver: Party Pils, Boomtown Brewery, Los Angeles, CA
Bronze: Happy Little Clouds, Cloudburst Brewing, Seattle, WA

Category 52: American-Style Cream Ale – 121 Entries
Gold: Cheetah, Rhinegeist Brewery, Cincinnati, OH
Silver: Was Angeles Craft Lager, Uinta Brewing, Salt Lake City, UT
Bronze: El Sully, 21st Amendment Brewery, San Leandro, CA

Category 53: American-Style Amber Lager – 87 Entries
Gold: Bruski, Noon Whistle Brewing, Lombard, IL
Silver: Hometown Lager, Second Pitch Beer Co., San Antonio, TX
Bronze: La Original, Cerveceria La Tropical, Miami, FL

Category 54: Australian-Style Pale Ale – 66 Entries
Gold: Feel Good, Blue Point Brewing Co., Patchogue, NY
Silver: Elevated, Arts District Brewing Co., Los Angeles, CA
Bronze: Oceano, Pizza Port Carlsbad, Carlsbad, CA

Category 55: International Pale Ale – 98 Entries
Gold: Pale 586, Faction Brewing, Alameda, CA
Silver: Boo Koo, Mother Earth Brew Co., Vista, CA
Bronze: New Zealand Pale Ale, Station 26 Brewing Co., Denver, CO

Category 56: Extra Special Bitter – 54 Entries
Gold: Old Jalopy Pale Ale, Powell Brewery, Vancouver, Canada
Silver: Pub Ale, Pilot Brewing Co., Charlotte, NC
Bronze: Can of Worms, Necromancer Brewing Co., Pittsburgh, PA

Category 57: International India Pale Ale – 98 Entries
Gold: NZ-Fu!, North Park Beer Co., San Diego, CA
Silver: Spirit of the West, Westbound & Down Brewing Co., Idaho Springs, CO
Bronze: Tight Focus, Burgeon Beer Co., Carlsbad, CA

Category 58: Barley Wine-Style Ale – 71 Entries
Gold: Barleywine, Sooke Brewing Co., Sooke, Canada
Silver: Grow Old With You, Verboten Brewing & Barrel Project, Loveland, CO
Bronze: Three Ryes Men, Reuben’s Brews – Production Brewery, Seattle, WA

Category 59: German-Style Koelsch – 177 Entries
Gold: Voss, Sonder Brewing, Mason, OH
Silver: Kodiak Kolsch, Bear Chase Brewing Co., Bluemont, VA
Bronze: Ice Cutter Kölsch, Joyride Brewing Co., Edgewater, CO

Category 60: German-Style Sour Ale – 45 Entries
Gold: Berlin AlexanderPlatz, Hopfenstark Brewery, Lavaltrie, Canada
Silver: Baywindow, 10 Barrel Brewing Co., Bend, OR
Bronze: Gosé, Ponysaurus Brewing Co., Durham, NC

Category 61: Specialty Berliner-Style Weisse – 53 Entries
Gold: Gindulgence, 10 Barrel Brewing Co., Bend, OR
Silver: Commander Salamander, Spring House Brewing Co., Lancaster, PA
Bronze: Paloma Sour, Pizza Port Ocean Beach, San Diego, CA

Category 62: Contemporary Gose – 63 Entries
Gold: Aloha State of Mind, COVA Brewing Co., Norfolk, VA
Silver: Guava In Berlin!, Green Cheek Beer Co. – Costa Mesa, Costa
Mesa, CA
Bronze: Gose de Sandía & Melón, Jabalina Brewing Co., Buenos Aires,
Argentina

Category 63: South German-Style Hefeweizen – 164 Entries
Gold: Altstadt Hefe, Altstadt Brewery, Fredericksburg, TX
Silver: Flying W Hefeweizen, Little Dry Creek Brewery, Greenwood
Village, CO
Bronze: Fujizakura Kogen Beer Weizen, Fujizakura Heights Beer,
Minamitsuru-gun, Japan

Category 64: German-Style Wheat Ale – 23 Entries
Gold: Kristal Weizen, Bearded Tang Brewery, Stanton, CA
Silver: TAP7 Original, Schneider Weisse G. Schneider & Sohn, Kelheim,
Germany
Bronze: Hirsch Sport Weisse, Hirsch-Brauerei Honer, Wurmlingen,
Germany

Category 65: South German-Style Weizenbock – 27 Entries
Gold: AlpenGlow, Fat Head’s Brewery, Middleburg Heights, OH
Silver: Weihenstephaner Vitus, Bayerische Staatsbrauerei
Weihenstephan, Freising, Germany
Bronze: TAP6 Aventinus, Schneider Weisse G. Schneider & Sohn,
Kelheim, Germany

Category 66: German-Style Altbier – 63 Entries
Gold: Copper Alt., Zipline Brewing Co., Lincoln, NE
Silver: Easy Hour, Roaring Table Brewing Co., Lake Zurich, IL
Bronze: CCB German Alt, Canyon Creek Brewing, Billings, MT

Category 67: Belgian-Style Ale or French-Style Ale – 106 Entries
Gold: Seefbier, Antwerpse Brouw Compagnie, Antwerpen, Belgium
Silver: Trip d’automne, Siboire, Sherbrooke, Canada
Bronze: Gloria, Brix City Brewing, Little Ferry, NJ

Category 68: Belgian-Style Witbier – 109 Entries
Gold: White Rascal, Avery Brewing Co., Boulder, CO
Silver: Hoegaarden White, Hoegaarden, Hoegaarden, Belgium
Bronze: Optimal Wit, Port City Brewing Co., Alexandria, VA

Category 69: Classic Saison – 73 Entries
Gold: Saaz Dryhopped Saison, 33 Brewing Experiment, Vancouver,
Canada
Silver: Juilletistes, Bruery Terreux, Placentia, CA
Bronze: Valor, Tooth and Nail Brewing Co., Ottawa, Canada

Category 70: Specialty Saison – 74 Entries
Gold: Mannenliefde, Oedipus Brewing, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Silver: Chakabuki, Yamori Shuzo, Kyoto, Japan
Bronze: Faithful and True, Sovereign Brewing, Seattle, WA

Category 71: Belgian-Style Sour Ale – 79 Entries
Gold: Vintage 2022, New Glarus Brewing Co., New Glarus, WI
Silver: Chance, Luck and Magic 2020, Garage Project, Wellington,
New Zealand
Bronze: Borealis, Lamplighter Brewing Co., Cambridge, MA

Category 72: Belgian-Style Abbey Ale – 98 Entries
Gold: Quad, Sugar Creek Brewing Co., Charlotte, NC
Silver: La Trappe Dubbel, Bierbrouwerij de Koningshoeven, Berkel-Enschot,
Netherlands
Bronze: Dad Bod Quad, Firestone Walker Barrelworks, Paso Robles, CA

Category 73: Belgian-Style Tripel – 98 Entries
Gold: Nectar Of The Gods, Redwood Brewing Co., Flint, MI
Silver: La Fin du Monde, Unibroue, Chambly, Canada
Bronze: 33 Acres of Euphoria, 33 Acres Brewing Co., Vancouver, Canada

Category 74: Belgian-Style Strong Specialty Ale – 96 Entries
Gold: Lit Out From Reno, Schussboom Brewing Co., Reno, NV
Silver: Gulpener IJsbock, Gulpener Bierbrouwerij, Gulpen, Netherlands
Bronze: Painted Devil, Bartlett Hall, San Francisco, CA

Category 75: Belgian Fruit Beer – 79 Entries
Gold: Central City Brewing Framboise, Central City Brewers and Distillers,
Surrey, Canada
Silver: Vieux Bois Lambic Inspired Ale w/ Cranberry & Raspberry, Bozeman
Brewing Co., Bozeman, MT
Bronze: Turtle Kriek, Peticolas Brewing Co., Dallas, TX

Category 76: English Mild or Bitter – 80 Entries
Gold: Drift, First Magnitude Brewing Co., Gainesville, FL
Silver: Sunday Bitter, Bucketty’s Brewing Co., Brookvale, Australia
Bronze: Amber Ale, Saint Arnold Brewing Co., Houston, TX

Category 77: English Ale – 43 Entries
Silver: Prickly Pear, Lewis & Clark Brewing Co., Helena, MT
Bronze: Sunshine Blonde, LazyG Brewhouse, Prescott, AZ

Category 78: English-Style Brown Ale – 62 Entries
Gold: Shhhhhh…This Is Ryan’s Award Winning Brown Ale, Green Cheek Beer
Co. – Costa Mesa, Costa Mesa, CA
Silver: Black Cats, Streetside Brewery, Cincinnati, OH
Bronze: Brown Ale, Grid City Beer Works, Salt Lake City, UT

Category 79: Brown Porter – 63 Entries
Gold: Brown Porter, Incendiary Brewing Co. – Westbend, Lewisville, NC
Silver: Old Normal, Bend Brewing Co., Bend, OR
Bronze: Slumber Car, Accomplice Beer Co., Cheyenne, WY

Category 80: Robust Porter – 85 Entries
Gold: Penn Quarter Porter, DC Brau Brewing Co., Washington, DC
Silver: YeongDeungPo-rter, BEERVANA Brewing Co., Seoul, Republic of Korea
Bronze: Porter, Big Timber Brewing Co., Elkins, WV
Category 81: Sweet Stout or Cream Stout – 58 Entries

Gold: 30 E Stout St, Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant – Greenville,
Greenville, SC
Silver: Work of Heart, Canteen Brewhouse, Albuquerque, NM
Bronze: Higher Purpose, Third Eye Brewing Co., Sharonville, OH

Category 82: Oatmeal Stout – 66 Entries
Gold: Pure Imagination, Verboten Brewing & Barrel Project,
Loveland, CO
Silver: Event Horizon, SPACECRAFT Brewing Co., Bangkok, Thailand
Bronze: Night Maker, Fieldwork Brewing Co., Berkeley, CA

Category 83: British-Style Imperial Stout – 54 Entries
Gold: Others in Darkness, Verboten Brewing & Barrel Project,
Loveland, CO
Silver: Kill the Lights, The Tap Brewery, Bloomington, IN
Bronze: Big Deluxe, Ritual Brewing Co., Redlands, CA

Category 84: Old Ale or Strong Ale – 42 Entries
Gold: Olde Ale, AleSmith Brewing Co., San Diego, CA
Silver: Dirty Bastard, Founders Brewing Co., Grand Rapids, MI
Bronze: Ol’ Beauty, Oregon City Brewing Co., Oregon City, OR

Category 85: Irish-Style Red Ale – 106 Entries
Gold: Equanimity, Ursa Minor Brewing, Duluth, MN
Silver: Red Ale Eddy, Brü Daddy’s Brewing Co., Allentown, PA
Bronze: Drake’s Irish Red Ale, Drake’s Brewing Co., San Leandro, CA

Category 86: Classic Irish-Style Dry Stout – 69 Entries
Gold: Lucky Four Leaf, Danville Brewing Co., Danville, CA
Silver: Olde 17 Irish Stout, Lion Bridge Brewing Co., Cedar Rapids, IA
Bronze: Feckin’ Oirish, Flix Brewhouse – El Paso, El Paso, TX

Category 87: Export Stout – 50 Entries
Gold: Silent Neighbor, Atlas Brew Works, Washington, DC
Silver: Starry Night Stout, Island Brewing Co., Carpinteria, CA
Bronze: Sinister Path, Eppig Brewing, Vista, CA

Category 88: Scottish-Style Ale – 57 Entries
Gold: The Fulkin, Half Batch Brewing, Hendersonville, TN
Silver: Taildragger Clan-Destine, Saddle Mountain Brewing Co.,
Goodyear, AZ
Bronze: Caber Tosser, Diamond X Beer Co., Billings, MT

Category 89: Scotch Ale – 66 Entries
Gold: Full Malted Jacket, Beachwood Brewing – Huntington Beach,
Huntington Beach, CA
Silver: Wee Heavy Wilson, MudHen Brewing Co., Wildwood, NJ
Bronze: Billy Boy’s Scotch Ale, Parkway Brewing Co., Salem, VA

Category 90: Golden or Blonde Ale – 150 Entries
Gold: Boone Creek Blonde, Appalachian Mountain Brewery – Boone,
Boone, NC
Silver: Big Thicket, White Rock Alehouse & Brewery, Dallas, TX
Bronze: Best Life, HenHouse Brewing Co., Santa Rosa, CA

Category 91: American-Style Pale Ale – 176 Entries
Gold: MadeWest Pale, MadeWest Brewing Co., Ventura, CA
Silver: Pale From The Crypt, Liquid Gravity Brewing Co., San Luis
Obispo, CA
Bronze: Papermaker Pale Ale, Grains of Wrath Brewing – Portland,
Portland, OR

Category 92: Juicy or Hazy Pale Ale – 153 Entries
Gold: Alpenhaze, Icicle Brewing Co., Leavenworth, WA
Silver: Muscle Memory, Cerebral Brewing – Congress Park, Denver, CO
Bronze: Queens & Sons Soft IPA, Kings & Daughters Brewery,
Clackamas, OR

Category 93: American-Style Strong Pale Ale – 154 Entries
Gold: Something Dank This Way Comes, Sunriver Brewing Co., Sunriver, OR
Silver: Breakside IPA, Breakside Brewery & Taproom, Milwaukie, OR
Bronze: You Have to Call Me Nighthawk, Joyride Brewing Co.,
Edgewater, CO

Category 94: Juicy or Hazy Strong Pale Ale – 147 Entries
Gold: Templin Family Squirrel!, Templin Family Brewing, Salt Lake City, UT
Silver: Fog Harvest, Armistice Brewing Co., Richmond, CA
Bronze: MadeWest Hazy IPA, MadeWest Brewing Co., Ventura, CA

Category 95: Imperial India Pale Ale – 144 Entries
Gold: Hoptomic, Morgan Territory Brewing, Tracy, CA
Silver: Double Cone, Alvarado Street Brewery – Monterey, CA
Bronze: A Permanent Case Of Senioritis, Green Cheek Beer Co.,
Orange, CA

Category 96: Juicy or Hazy Imperial India Pale Ale – 148 Entries
Gold: The Great Coneholio, Moonraker Brewing Co., Auburn, CA
Silver: High 9 Double IPA, Highland Park Brewery – Chinatown,
Los Angeles, CA
Bronze: Lost to History, Xül Beer Co., Knoxville, TN

Category 97: American-Style Amber/Red Ale – 143 Entries
Gold: Summon Ifrit, BattleMage Brewing Co., Vista, CA
Silver: Bugsy’s Fire Brush, Infamous Brewing Co., Austin, TX
Bronze: Yard Sale Ale, Tamarack Brewing Co., Lakeside, MT

Category 98: Strong Red Ale – 68 Entries
Gold: Bone Head, Fat Head’s Brewery, Middleburg Heights, OH
Silver: Jagged Shard, Boise Brewing, Boise, ID
Bronze: Bear’s Choice, Tighthead Brewing Co., Mundelein, IL

Category 99: American-Style Brown Ale – 83 Entries
Gold: Janet’s Brown Ale, Wondrous Brewing Co., Emeryville, CA
Silver: Bufflehead Brown Ale, Kishwaukee Brewing Co., Woodstock, IL
Bronze: Stone Lifeblood, Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens – Liberty
Station, San Diego, CA

Category 100: American-Style Black Ale or American-Style Stout – 81
Entries
Gold: Falling Up, Grains of Wrath Brewing – Portland, Portland, OR
Silver: What You Know, Autumn Arch Beer Project, Newark, DE
Bronze: Foca Parlante, Cervecería Wendlandt, Ensenada, Mexico

Category 101: American-Style Imperial Stout – 58 Entries
Gold: Block & Tackle Imperial Stout, Chetco Brewing Co.,
Brookings, OR
Silver: Night Howler Imperial Stout, Baerlic Brewing Co., Portland, OR
Bronze: Hidden Moon Imperial Stout, Hidden Moon Brewing,
Pittsfield, NH

Category 102: American-Style India Pale Ale – 412 Entries
Gold: Head Hunter, Fat Head’s Brewery & Saloon, North Olmsted, OH
Silver: Applied Science, Sunriver Brewing Co., Sunriver, OR
Bronze: Old West, Craft Coast Beer & Tacos, Oceanside, CA

Category 103: Juicy or Hazy India Pale Ale – 374 Entries
Gold: Wherever You Go, Green Cheek Beer Co. – Costa Mesa, Costa
Mesa, CA
Silver: Nectaronus Prime, Moksa Brewing Co., Rocklin, CA
Bronze: Nelson Hazy IPA, Prison Pals Brewing Co., Doral, FL

The Brewers Assocation
Founded in 1978, the Brewers Association is a nonprofit trade group representing over 5,600 U.S. craft breweries, homebrewers, suppliers, and distributors. Headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, it champions small and independent brewers through advocacy, education, and events like the Great American Beer Festival and World Beer Cup, while defining “craft” standards and tracking industry growth amid evolving markets.

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Filed Under: Beer, Beer Festival, craft lager

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

May 7, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

The History of D. G. Yuengling & Son Brewery and TimelineYuengling 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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Filed Under: Beer, craft lager, craftbeer

The History of the August Schell Brewing Company

May 3, 2025 by Andrew Innes

The History of the August Schell Brewing

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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Filed Under: Beer, craft lager, craftbeer

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

May 3, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

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

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.

 

For More Information:
https://www.instagram.com/printersbeer/

Filed Under: Beer, craft lager, IPA

Living The Dream Brewing Introduces New Light Lager

April 17, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Living The Dream Brewing Releases Light Lager in ColoradoHIGHLANDS RANCH, Colorado — Living The Dream Brewing has launched its newest year-round beer: Living The Dream Light Lager. This light, crisp, and classic craft lager is now available in 12oz canned 6-packs across Colorado through Colorado Craft Distributors.

As more beer drinkers reach for easy-drinking craft lagers, Living The Dream Light Lager delivers with just 4.2% ABV. Refreshing, approachable, and low in alcohol, this brew is perfect for any occasion—from hiking trails to backyard BBQs.

The beer’s packaging marks a bold departure from the brewery’s typical label artwork. Designed with striking red, blue, and yellow Colorado flag colors, the can is made to stand out on store shelves.

“We wanted to create something that was easy to spot and even easier to drink,” said Jason Bell, Founder of Living The Dream Brewing. “Whether you’re celebrating an outdoor adventure, enjoying a night with friends, or simply relaxing, our Light Lager is the perfect companion.”

Fans can also join in on the brewery’s #livingthedreamoutside campaign. By sharing photos of their Light Lager moments on social media, participants are entered to win exclusive merchandise giveaways.

Living The Dream Light Lager is available on draft and in cans at both Living The Dream taprooms in Highlands Ranch and Sterling Ranch, as well as at over 500 retail and bar locations throughout Colorado.

About Living The Dream Brewing
Founded in 2014 in  the heart of Colorado, Living The Dream Brewing embodies the state’s adventurous spirit and passion for craft beer. Founded in Littleton, this independent brewery has built a loyal following with its commitment to creating high-quality, approachable beers that pair perfectly with the Rocky Mountain lifestyle. From their flagship offerings to innovative seasonal releases, Living The Dream’s taprooms in Highlands Ranch and Sterling Ranch serve as welcoming hubs for locals and visitors alike, offering a taste of Colorado’s vibrant craft beer culture in a laid-back, community-focused atmosphere.

Learn more at livingthedreambrewing.com.

Filed Under: Beer, craft lager

StormBreaker Brewing will Release 17 Fresh Hop Beers

August 12, 2024 by Dustin Scoggins

StormBreaker Brewing
Photo Credit: StormBreaker Brewing

North Portland’s StormBreaker Brewing has become known for their pop culture referencing beers and neighborhood favorite pubs, but it may be the hop harvest season that has them digging deepest into their tanks for an incredible rollout of releases. This 2024 hop harvest season, StormBreaker Brewing anticipates releasing 17 or more fresh hop beers in a variety of beer styles.

StormBreaker Brewing has gained significant recognition for its fresh hop offerings, earning a total of seven medals over the past two years at prestigious events such as the Best of Craft and Oregon Beer Awards. The brewery’s celebrated brews include Fresh Hop Nobody Puts Hazy in a Corner, Triple Double Imperial IPA (2022 + 2023), Ella Rose Hazy IPA, Fresh Hop It Don’t Drop It Hazy IPA, Mississippi Red, and Set Freshies to Haze Hazy IPA.

This year, fans can look forward to the release of Fresh Hop Total ReKolsch and Handfuls of Fresh Hops between 08/16-08/20. These highly anticipated beers are expected to sell out quickly, so beer enthusiasts are encouraged to visit the pub promptly to enjoy these limited-edition brews.

For those who prefer to enjoy their fresh hop beers at home, StormBreaker Brewing is offering the option to pre-order fresh hop cans for takeout. This ensures that fans can secure their favorite fresh hop creations without missing out.

Don’t miss the chance to experience StormBreaker Brewing’s renowned fresh hop beers. Visit the brewery or place your pre-order today to be part of this exciting hop harvest season.

About StormBreaker Brewing 

StormBreaker Brewing is an award-winning craft brewery co-founded in Portland, Oregon by Dan Malech and Rob Lutz in 2014. The brewery focuses on a wide range of craft beer and specialty craft cocktails and mocktails in two distinct locations, and strives to constantly produce innovative and high quality offerings.

For more information please visit https://www.stormbreakerbrewing.com/

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Filed Under: Beer, Collaboration Beers, craft lager

Prost Brewing Company Releases Summer Seasonals Brewed in Northglenn

April 22, 2024 by Spencer Mapes

NORTHGLENN, Colorado -Prost Brewing Co., the Colorado brewery dedicated to the pursuit of German craft bier perfection, announces the release of two new summer seasonal offerings both brewed at its new Northglenn, Colo., brewery: Summer Lager and the Summer Variety Pack. Drink like a German all summer long at a Prost biergarten in Northglenn, Denver, Highlands Ranch or Fort Collins or grab them at retail in Prost’s five-state distribution area across Colorado, Wyoming, Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, Idaho, and Montana.

Summer Lager (5.8% ABV) – Make this crisp lager part of your summer tradition. Prost’s Summer Lager is fruity, easy to drink and playful. Simultaneously complex and intricate while remaining balanced and smooth, it’s the ideal complement to the season. A Munich-style Export Lager characterized by flavors of stone fruit, floral spice, sweet biscuit and a crisp, dry finish, Summer Lager is available on draft and in 6-packs of 12 oz. cans.

Summer Variety Pack – Summer Lager joins three Prost flagship lagers in this limited-time seasonal 12-pack of 12 oz. cans. Perfect for gatherings with friends during the warm-weather season, this pack contains three cans of four Prost favorites: Summer Lager, Prost Pilsner (4.9% ABV), Prost Dunkel (5.6% ABV), and Prost Kölsch (4.8% ABV).

“These biers were crafted in our new Northglenn brewery headquarters using a combination of time-honored German methods and state-of-the-art equipment,” said Prost Brewing Co. President David Deline. “We hope you enjoy them while partaking in other fine German summer traditions, like drinking bier in the sunshine and gathering with friends for live music and yard games.”

All of Prost Brewing Co.’s award-winning biergarten-style biers begin with authentic, hand-selected malt, hops, water and yeast, crafted through the patient process of slow lagering. The team at Prost believes in preserving processes like these, which have been perfected over centuries, in order to craft the highest quality biers.

Just like the summer season, these seasonal biers won’t last forever. Learn more about Prost Brewing Co. and where to find Prost’s award-winning German-inspired, Colorado crafted biers at prostbrewing.com.

About Prost

Prost Brewing Co. is a Colorado craft brewery focused on building community and honoring German brewing traditions. Prost’s award-winning biergarten-style biers are brewed authentically with sustainably sourced German-grown hops and malts that are hand-selected for quality. Brewed with state-of-the-art precision, Prost’s lineup of German inspired, Colorado crafted biers are clear, refined and approachable, yet layered with complexity. To drink like a German, join us for a Prost Pils at one of our four destination biergartens throughout Colorado or find us at a craft beer retailer near you.

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Filed Under: Beer, craft lager, craftbeer Tagged With: Colorado Beer, Prost, Prost Brewing

Samuel Adams Celebrates 15 Years of Brewing the American Dream and $100 Million in Small Business Funding

August 22, 2023 by Spencer Mapes

BOSTON, Massachusetts – As Brewing the American Dream celebrates 15 years supporting small food and beverage businesses across the U.S., Samuel Adams today announces that its priority philanthropy program has surpassed $100 million of funding. This milestone commemorates the program’s dedication to uplifting devoted craftspeople everywhere in partnership with nonprofit lenders like Accion Opportunity Fund.

Established in 2008, Brewing the American Dream was born out of the same passion that led Sam Adams founder and brewer, Jim Koch, to start the craft beer revolution. Koch recognized that despite being the heartbeat of our country, food and beverage entrepreneurs are often underrepresented and underfunded. He set out to support them with valuable resources and much-needed access to capital. 15 years later, Brewing the American Dream celebrates $100 million in loan funding to more than 4,200 small business owners, with coaching and mentorship provided to 14,000 entrepreneurs who have created or retained more than 11,000 local jobs nationwide. Moreover, identifying the unique barriers they face, Brewing the American Dream has proudly championed a network of businesses that are 76% BIPOC-owned and 63% female-owned.

“There could not be a better way to celebrate our 15th year than with this incredible milestone. How time flies when you are doing what you love and get to help others do the same,” said Jennifer Glanville Love, Director of Partnerships & Collaborations at Boston Beer Company. “We are immensely grateful to have supported so many deeply impassioned entrepreneurs who fearlessly chase their dreams each day–and that’s really what $100 million represents for us, more dreams realized.”

Amidst the current economic landscape, access to affordable capital is critical for aspiring food & beverage entrepreneurs. Yet, the program’s impact stretches well beyond funding. It boasts a dynamic breadth of initiatives that offer business advice and discipline-specific education to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to run a healthy, growing enterprise.

Brewing the American Dream’s unique program roster retains year-round efforts like Speed Coaching and Pitch Room Competitions, the latter of which has awarded a total of $500,000 to finalists in various markets across the country. Another program staple, the Brewing & Business Experienceship, is now in its 12th year of selecting one lucky craft brewer to work side-by-side with experts at the Samuel Adams Boston Brewery.

Showing no signs of slowing down, the program saw a 25% increase in coaching and event attendance in the last year alone. Through years of successfully executing signature programs and working hand-in-hand with entrepreneurs, Brewing the American has maintained a keen pulse on the evolving needs of today’s small business owner. This experienced insight and demand has led to recent program additions such as food styling and photography coaching in 2022 and an inaugural Bootcamp intensive that launched in May of this year.

“Samuel Adams has been a steadfast supporter of small food and beverage businesses over the past 15 years,” said Luz Urrutia, CEO of Accion Opportunity Fund. “Working creatively alongside a variety of local non-profit partners over that time, they have expanded access not only to critical capital that these businesses need to grow, but also to valuable learning, networking, and promotional opportunities to support their success. We at Accion Opportunity Fund are grateful for their partnership and look forward to continued collaboration.”

As the food & beverage community remains a powerful thread in the country’s DNA, Brewing the American Dream is committed to being an ever-evolving resource for the dreamers that make it stronger each day.

About Brewing the American Dream

In 2008, Samuel Adams launched its core philanthropic initiative, Samuel Adams Brewing the American Dream. In partnership with Accion Opportunity Fund, one of the nation’s largest non-profit small business lenders, the program supports small business owners in the food, beverage, and brewing industries through access to business capital, coaching, and new market opportunities. The goal is to help strengthen small businesses, create local jobs, and build vibrant communities. Since the inception of the Samuel Adams Brewing the American Dream program, Brewing the American Dream has worked together with Accion Opportunity Fund and other non-profits in loaning more than $100 million to more than 4,100 small business owners in the food and beverage industry. Samuel Adams employees, together with local business partners and community organizations, have provided coaching and mentoring to more than 14,000 business owners across the country, helping to create or maintain more than 9,000 local jobs.

About Accion Opportunity Fund

Accion Opportunity Fund works to create an inclusive, healthy financial system that supports the nation’s small business owners by connecting entrepreneurs to affordable capital, educational resources, coaching, and networks. Through innovative partnerships and outreach strategies, we reach entrepreneurs of color, low-income entrepreneurs, and women, who often lack access to the financial services they need to build and grow their businesses. Loans made by Accion Opportunity Fund Community Development. California Finance Lenders license number 6050609.

About Boston Beer Company

The Boston Beer Company, Inc. (NYSE: SAM) began in 1984 brewing Samuel Adams beer and the Samuel Adams brand is currently recognized as one of the largest and most respected craft beer brands. Our portfolio of brands also includes Truly Hard Seltzer, Twisted Tea, Angry Orchard Hard Cider, Dogfish Head Brewery and Hard Mountain Dew as well as other craft beer brands such as Angel City Brewery and Coney Island Brewing.

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Filed Under: Beer, craft lager, craftbeer Tagged With: Accion Opportunity Fund, Boston Beer Company, Brewing the American Dream, Samuel Adams

The story of Deschutes Brewery’s Black Butte Porter

March 2, 2021 by Dow Scoggins

Black Butte Porter - Deschutes Brewery Promised Great Beer and Delivered with its first beer.In 1987, we originally hired Frank Appleton, a brewing consultant from Canada to help us establish the brewing component of our planned brewpub in Bend, Oregon. In addition to designing the equipment, and having it installed, he would formulate the first three beers in our line-up. Not knowing much about it in 1988, we wanted something light, medium, and dark. Frank came up with Cascade Golden Ale, Bachelor Bitter, and Black Butte Porter. Our first brewer, John Harris, then put his hand (and considerable skill) on the formulation and Black Butte Porter was born. However, it was not until sometime later that Black Butte Porter became our “flagship” beer. After a year or so, and out of necessity to keep the brewery going, we began to explore wholesale distribution. Thinking conventionally, we began with Cascade Golden Ale and Bachelor Bitter as being most adaptable to the limited palates of 1980’s drinkers. It just seemed like lighter colored beer would make sense.

Once while meeting with our distributor in Portland, Oregon, Jim Kennedy, he posed a question. He said, “You need to decide what you want to be as a brewery. Now, you can sell these lighter colored beers and carve out your small but reasonable slice of the very large, light colored beer-pie, competing with everyone for that slice. Or, you can sell Black Butte Porter and, although the dark-colored beer-pie is much smaller, you can own the whole thing”. I guess being a contrarian at heart, that proposition appealed to me. Although we had to sacrifice quite a bit to make that happen. You see, the path of least resistance for beer salespeople was certainly not in dark beer. Particularly when we had developed some really popular lighter beers like Mirror Pond Pale Ale. But we were committed. For the next few years, we kept the brakes on Mirror Pond and limited its market exposure to ensure Black Butte could gain a foothold in the market. It didn’t hurt that it was winning awards at a pretty good clip in those days. As a result, you could say we developed our second brand first, and we actually had two flagship brands with Black Butte and Mirror Pond sharing that distinction.
Black Butte Porter has continued to evolve, although our target flavors never really changed. But with growth naturally comes change. When we built our larger production facility in 1993, we installed a 50-barrel brewery. Later, we added a German-manufactured 150 barrel brewery that was much more efficient. Getting those two breweries to brew Black Butte Porter that tasted the same was quite the chore. But, we’re pretty stubborn, so four years later, we declared success and the legacy (and flavor) of Black Butte Porter could continue.

Black Butte continues to be our flagship. Even though beers like Mirror Pond Pale Ale and Fresh Squeezed outsell it. Black Butte is the best-selling porter in America and a significant point of pride for our team. It has successfully dispelled the misconceptions of dark beer. It is particularly successful at that task with novice craft drinkers. But, if we can get them to taste it, they are usually hooked! It has also spurred spin-offs like Black Butte Anniversary that is an imperial version of Black Butte Porter brewed for our company’s anniversary, but being barrel-aged and topping out around 11% alcohol with various added adjuncts like chocolate, chilis or coffee. We have also made a Black Butte Whiskey, with local distillery, Bendistillery. We make the wash for the whiskey using a variation of the Black Butte formula for that wash. Finally, we also do Black Butte3 where we use an imperial version of Black Butte Porter and age it in barrels that were used for Black Butte Whiskey.

Business consultants like to ask a question evaluating your business. That is, “what can you do your competitors can’t?” For me, the answer is clearly Black Butte Porter. The legend will continue. What we do with it next, well, stay tuned.

Written by Gary Fish, Founder of Deschutes Brewery

 

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Filed Under: Beer, craft lager

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