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The oldest beer  movie known to man is “The Fatal Glass of Beer (1933)”. This film is a short comedy movie starring W.C. Fields, known for its absurdist humor and deadpan delivery. Set in the Yukon during the Klondike Gold Rush, the film follows the story of Mr. Snavely (Fields), a dour, long-suffering man living in a remote snow-covered cabin with his wife. Their son, Chester, left home to seek fortune in the city but was led astray by the temptations of alcohol—symbolized by the “fatal glass of beer.”

The film satirizes morality plays and melodramas of the time, with exaggeratedly tragic storytelling and intentionally clumsy staging. Fields frequently breaks the fourth wall, delivering the film’s most famous recurring gag: after dramatically declaring, “And it ain’t a fit night out for man nor beast!” he immediately gets a handful of fake snow tossed into his face.

With its surreal, anti-comedy sensibilities and relentless parody of melodramatic tropes, The Fatal Glass of Beer remains one of Fields’ most bizarre and memorable short films.

 

 

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Here are the 2025 Alaska Craft Brew and Barley Wine Festival – Medal Winners
Barley Wine Winners
Gold – Three Ryes Men Barleywine – Reuben’s Brews – Washington
Silver – Arctic Devil – Midnight Sun Brewing – Alaska
Bronze – Apocalyptic Sky Trumpet – 49th State Brewing – Alaska
Honorable Mention – 2025 Barley Wine – Hoodoo Brewing – Alaska

Winter Warmer Winners
Gold – 2024 Jim Beam Double Barrel Aged Eisboch – Glacier Brewhouse – Alaska
Silver – Barrel Aged Black Pearl Imperial Coconut – Maui Brewing – Hawaii
Bronze – Reuben’s Brew Barrel Aged Stout – Reuben’s Brews – Washington

The Ultimate Alaska-Made Beverage Experience Returns
The largest gathering of Alaska-made beverages under one roof took place over the Dena’ina Center on January 31 and February 1 for the annual Alaska Craft Brew and Barley Wine Festival.

Over the course of two days and three four-hour sessions, more than 65 breweries were served craft beer lovers four-ounce sample pours of over 250 unique beverages.

Beyond Beer: A Festival for Every Palate
Despite its name, this festival isn’t just about beer. When it began in 1996 as a celebration of all things hoppy, Alaska had only eight breweries. Today, the state boasts more than 50 breweries—alongside a growing community of producers crafting wine, mead, cider, seltzers, and non-alcoholic beverages.

Now in its 29th year, the Alaska Craft Beer and Barley Wine Festival, presented in partnership with the Brewers Guild of Alaska and Peak 2 Peak Events, continues to evolve to reflect the ever-expanding world of craft beverages in Alaska and beyond.

“Our goal remains the same: to provide folks with delicious beverages,” said Lee Ellis, Brewmaster at Midnight Sun Brewing Co. and a member of the Brewers Guild of Alaska.

Expanding the Menu
One of this year’s standout non-brewery participants is Hive Mind Meadery, an Anchorage-based producer of honey wine. Owner Tristan Bellotti sees the event as a chance to introduce festival-goers to something beyond beer.

“We like to offer an alternative to IPAs—something that acts as a palate cleanser between beers,” Bellotti said. “This is one of the biggest alcohol-related events of the year, so it’s an incredible opportunity for exposure.”

Along with Hive Mind Meadery, other non-beer brands—Double Shovel Cider Company, Zip Kombucha, Alaska Ciderworks, and more—are adding variety to the festival’s lineup, making it more inclusive for those seeking gluten-free or alternative options.

For Bellotti, participation in this festival is particularly meaningful.

“I had to go gluten-free six or seven years ago, which meant I stopped attending for a while due to the lack of options,” he shared. “Now, we have people telling us they didn’t think they’d be able to drink at all—but they find our booth, and they end up staying there all night because they finally have something to enjoy.”

The Competition: Big, Bold Beers
While the festival showcased a diverse range of beverages, the official competition remains exclusively for barley wines and “winter warmer” beers—a category that includes porters, stouts, and Belgian-style quadruples.

“The Alaska Craft Beer and Barley Wine Festival continues its tradition of celebrating bold, world-class beers—the largest selection outside of the Great American Beer Festival,” said Ellis.

Each year, brewers can submit up to two barley wines and one winter warmer. On Friday night, beer critics with Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP) credentials conduct the first round of judging. The final round, held on Saturday morning, is judged by Grand Master, Master, and National-ranked BJCP judges, who select the Best-of-Show winner.

Winners received the coveted gold pan trophy—along with serious bragging rights, as barley wine competitions are rare in the U.S. In 2024, Black Spruce Brewing Company took home both first and third place for different versions of its Reginald Van Horn Barley Wine, aged in Willet Bourbon and Heaven Hill Whiskey barrels, respectively.

A Two-Day Celebration
While the competition focuses on big, boozy, complex beers, breweries bring a wide variety of beverages for festival-goers to enjoy. Many, like Hive Mind Meadery, create exclusive, one-of-a-kind offerings just for this event. “We always try to bring something we haven’t done before,” Bellotti said.  Beyond the drinks, the festival offers live music, food vendors, and shopping opportunities—along with a lively crowd sporting everything from quirky costumes to brewery swag.  And speaking of costumes, Hive Mind Meadery has something special in store.  “We don’t want to ruin the surprise, but let’s just say one of our brewers may or may not be dressed as a house elf,” Bellotti teased. “This event is always a blast, and we love to have fun with it.”

 

 

 

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Kayaking to Sierra Nevada Brewing in Mills River, North Carolina, offers a unique blend of adventure and craft beer appreciation. Paddlers can launch from various points along the French Broad River, enjoying a scenic journey through lush forests, gentle rapids, and tranquil waters. As they near the brewery, the air fills with the aroma of hops and malt, a sure sign they’re close to the riverside access point. After securing their kayaks, visitors can step into the brewery’s grand lodge-style taproom to enjoy a fresh pint—an unforgettable way to combine outdoor exploration with world-class craft beer.

Kayaking to 50 West Brewing in Cincinnati offers a scenic and adventurous journey along the Little Miami River. Paddlers can launch from nearby access points, enjoying the gentle current, lush tree-lined banks, and occasional wildlife sightings. As they approach the brewery’s riverside location, they’ll find convenient kayak access, making it easy to pull up, step ashore, and enjoy a cold beer. Known for its welcoming outdoor space, sand volleyball courts, and refreshing craft brews, 50 West provides the perfect post-paddle reward for those looking to combine outdoor adventure with great beer.

While kayaking to Oskar Blues Brewery in Brevard, North Carolina, paddlers can embark on a scenic five-mile journey along the French Broad River, characterized by gentle currents and lush surroundings. Local outfitter Headwaters Outfitters collaborates with the brewery to offer the “Cruise then Booze” trip, providing all necessary equipment and transportation. After approximately two hours on the water, participants arrive near the brewery, where they can enjoy a variety of craft beers in the Tasty Weasel Tap Room or relax in the outdoor area with picnic tables and the CHUBwagon food truck. This experience seamlessly combines the tranquility of river paddling with the vibrant atmosphere of a renowned brewery.

Little Miami Brewing Company, located at 208 Mill Street in Milford, Ohio, is a state-of-the-art, small-batch brewery and casual taproom nestled along the scenic Little Miami River and Bike Trail. Founded in 2015 by brothers-in-law Dan Lynch and Joe Brenner, the brewery aims to bring together nearby communities and families with excellent small-batch craft beer and great food. The family-friendly taproom offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with beautiful views of the river. The brewery also features a rooftop bar with stunning views of the Little Miami River, providing a perfect spot to relax with friends.

O.K. Pelican Brewing is not on a river, but has some of the best sea kayaking in the USA. Pelican Brewing, particularly its Siletz Bay location in Lincoln City, Oregon, offers a fantastic combination of craft beer and waterside adventure. The brewery sits right on Siletz Bay, a calm and scenic estuary where the Siletz River meets the Pacific Ocean. This area is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or canoeing, with a mix of tidal flats, wildlife viewing, and gentle waters that make for a relaxing paddle.

Other Breweries on rivers in the United States
Walking Man Brewing in Stevenson, Washington
Lakefront Brewery – Situated along the Milwaukee River in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Neuse River Brewing Company – Found in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Northern Outdoors – Located in West Forks, Maine, this adventure resort and brewery was founded in 1996 near the Kennebec River.
Three Rivers Brewing – Positioned at the gateway to Sequoia National Park in Three Rivers, California, this brewery is near the Kaweah River.
HiHO Brewing in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio overlooks the Cuyahoga River.
Old Schoolhouse Brewery in Winthrop, Washington
Hood River Breweries include: pFriem Family Brewers, Full Sail, Thunder Island Brewing, Wiseman Walking Brewing, Frement Brewing and Double Mountain Brewing

What is National River Day all about:
In the U.S., National River Day on February 2 is a day dedicated to celebrating and raising awareness about the importance of rivers in our environment, economy, and daily lives. It coincides with World Wetlands Day, emphasizing the critical role rivers play in maintaining healthy ecosystems, supporting biodiversity, and providing clean water.

Key Focus Areas of National River Day (Feb 2):
·  River Conservation – Highlighting efforts to protect and restore river ecosystems.
·  Water Quality Awareness – Educating the public on pollution prevention and clean water initiatives.
·  Wildlife Protection – Recognizing the role of rivers in sustaining fish, birds, and other wildlife.
·  Community Engagement – Encouraging local cleanups, conservation programs, and sustainable water use.
·  Climate Change Impact – Understanding how climate change affects river systems and what actions can be taken.
Various environmental organizations, local governments, and advocacy groups use this day to host educational events, clean-up efforts, and policy discussions to protect and sustain U.S. rivers.

#riverday #nationalriverday

 

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

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

Colorado Brewers Cup 2025 Medal Winners:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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For over two decades, FoBAB has brought together the nation’s leading barrel-aged brewing programs—featuring brewers who masterfully blend art and science, wood and bourbon, timing and technique—for a one-of-a-kind showcase of craftsmanship and innovation. This year, more than 170 breweries from across the country have entered their rarest and most exclusive wood- and barrel-aged beers, ciders, meads, and perries for judging. Explore the list of participating breweries below.

2024 FOBAB BEST IN SHOW
Hidden Hand Brewery – Oaked Val d’Or – Naperville, IL

2024 FOBAB BEST IN SHOWRUNNER UP
More Brewing Company Villa Park – Mehndi 2023 – Villa Park, IL

STRONG PORTER + STOUT
GOLD – Breakside Brewery & Taproom – Somebody New in the Old West – Milwaukie, OR
SILVER – White Oak Brewing – Into the Thick of It – Normal, IL
BRONZE – Firestone Walker – ParAmburana – Paso Robles, CA

STRONG PORTER + STOUT
GOLD – Cahaba Brewing Company – Romulus – Birmingham, AL
SILVER – Old Irving Brewing Company – Champurrado Krampus – Chicago, IL
BRONZE – Half Acre Beer Co. – Benthic 2 x 4 – Chicago, IL

BARLEYWINE/WHEATWINE
GOLD – Verboten Brewing – Double Oaked Cognac Grow Old With You – Loveland, CO
SILVER – Kros Strain Brewing – Barrelywine Vol.12 Single Barrel – LaVista, NE
BRONZE – Brothership Brewing – Noble Cask – Mokena, IL

BLENDED BEER
GOLD – The Lost Abbey – Serpent’s Kiss Imperial Stout for the Rare Beer Club 30th Anniversary – Vista, CA
SILVER – Third Eye Brewing – Barrel Aged Private Consciousness – Hamilton, OH
BRONZE – Verboten Brewing and Barrel Project – Grow In Darkness – Loveland, CO

OTHER PALE BEER
GOLD – Bubblehouse Brewing – That Escalated Swiftly – Lisle, IL
SILVER – Forbidden Root – Well Positioned – Oak Aged Saison – Chicago, IL
BRONZE – Sketchbook Brewing – Tripel G – Belgian Style Tripel – Skokie, IL

LAGERS
GOLD – Elmhurst Brewing – BA Elevator – Elmhurst, IL
SILVER – Kros Strain Brewing – Barrel-Aged Czech Dark Lager – LaVista, NE
BRONZE – Solemn Oath Brewery – Foederface – Naperville, IL

OTHER DARK BEER
GOLD – Half Acre Beer Co. – Orin – Chicago, IL
SILVER – Loose Ends Brewing – NPN – Applejack Brandy Barrel Aged – Centerville, OH
BRONZE – Sun King Brewery – Diddy Muckle – Fishers, IN

FRUIT BEER
GOLD – Revolution Brewing – Cherry V.S.O.J. – Chicago, IL
SILVER – Sun King Brewery – Soul Shakedown Party – Indianapolis, IN
BRONZE – Cruz Blanca Brewery – La Locura – Chicago, IL

SPECIALTY + EXPERIMENTAL
GOLD – Black Horizon Brewing – From Earth To You – Willowbrook, IL
SILVER – G5 Brewing Company – Eternal Burning – McFarland, WI
BRONZE – Cruz Blanca Brewery – Tepache Cowboy – Chicago, IL

WILD BEER BRETT
GOLD – Off Color Brewing – Funky Beer for Tacos – Chicago, IL
SILVER – Benchtop Brewing Company – Baby – Richmond, VA
BRONZE – Boulevard Brewing Company – Foeder 7 – Kansas City, MO

WILD BEER MIXED CULTURE (ACIDIC)
GOLD – Milieu Fermentation Company – SMOL – Aurora, CO
SILVER – Ike & Oak Brewing – Cutbow – Woodridge, IL
BRONZE – Imperial Oak Brewing-Brookfield Blanc Brookfield, IL

WILD BEER MIXED CULTURE (ACIDIC) W/ FRUIT
GOLD – Pryes Brewing – Idyll Forest: 2024 Soirée – Minneapolis, MN
SILVER – Firestone Walker Brewing – Primal Elements with Pink Guava and Pineapple – Buellton, CA
BRONZE – Lupulin Brewing Company – Star Damage – Calamansi & Sabro – Big Lake, MN

CIDER/PERRY/MEAD
GOLD – Misbeehavin’ Meads – Clint’s Apple Pie – Valparaiso, IN
SILVER – Misbeehavin’ Meads – Stake in the Tart – Valparaiso, IN
BRONZE – Right Bee Cider – Barrel-Aged Clementine – Chicago, IL

Paso Robles, California: Firestone Walker’s mythic Wookey Jack is back for a limited seasonal release. Born more than a dozen years ago, Wookey Jack (8.3%) is a Black Rye IPA whose legend continues to grow. This latest edition is rolling out to all Firestone Walker markets in six pack (12-ounce can) and draft formats for a limited time, adding to the lore of this three-time gold medalist at the Great American Beer Festival.

“Wookey Jack has a hardcore following and we get asked about it all the time,” said Brewmaster Matt Brynildson. “It’s a beer for those in the know and those who want to discover something different. Everyone loves the visual trick of Wookey Jack—it’s as black as a stout but drinks like an IPA.”

The latest edition of Wookey Jack remains faithful to the original recipe, which includes loads of pearled dark malts with rye adding a rustic grain element. The hops are sticky Citra and dank, pungent Amarillo, both of which are incorporated into a massive dry-hop regimen. As always, the brewing team claims to have incorporated a bit of “Wookey Dust” as well.

Wookey Jack now reaffirms its title Firestone Walker’s wooliest IPA, offering big, toasty malted rye flavors with a balanced bite on the finish. It is, in Brynildson’s words, “gnarly on the outside, yet refined on the inside.”

Origin Story
Wookey Jack was first brewed in 2012 as Firestone Walker’s riff on the emerging Black IPA style.

Wookey Jack came into the world at a time when Cascadian Dark Ales were starting to storm into California from the Pacific Northwest. Also known as Black IPAs, these beers brought a unique regional expression to the exploding IPA genre.

With Black Rye IPAs gaining a foothold, Brynildson decided to put his own stamp on the style, adding rye malt to bring a spicy, rustic element to the beer he would call Wookey Jack. It was an instant hit that would spawn many imitators. After later going on hiatus, Wookey Jack has re-emerged in recent years as a seasonal release.

“It’s a beer that just seems right for fall and winter,” Brynildson said. “The Wookey never dies—it just hibernates.”

Firestone Walker Brewing
Founded in 1996 by brothers-in-law Adam Firestone and David Walker, Firestone Walker is a second-generation, family-led brewery based on California’s Central Coast. Helmed by highly decorated Brewmaster Matt Brynildson, Firestone Walker’s main brewery in Paso Robles produces a diverse portfolio including 805, California’s #1 craft beer brand; Mind Haze, a top 5 national hazy IPA; and Cali Squeeze, one of the nation’s fastest-growing beer brands. The Firestone brand family also includes iconic beers such as DBA, Union Jack, and Pivo Pils, as well as the storied Vintage Series of barrel-aged strong ales led by Parabola. As a California beer company, Firestone Walker also has two additional locations: the Barrelworks wild ale cellar in Santa Barbara County and the Propagator R&D brewhouse in Venice. Firestone Walker was recently named “Best American Brewery of the Decade” by Paste Magazine. More at 805beer.com and FirestoneWalker.com

Paso Robles, California: Grab your stein and dust off your lederhosen as Firestone Walker’s fall classic is back with the 2024 edition of Oaktoberfest. As always, this latest release is an oak-inspired homage to the iconic “festbiers” that are synonymous with Munich’s legendary Oktoberfest celebration.

“There’s nothing that I look forward to more than good lager beer like Oaktoberfest,” said Brewmaster Matt Brynildson. “A sessionable beer like this is made to be consumed in celebratory moments, but it’s also the perfect everyday drinker.”

The 2024 Oaktoberfest Oak Aged Lager (5.2% ABV) begins rolling out to all Firestone Walker markets this week in 6-pack (12-oz cans) and draft formats. The name, “Oaktoberfest” is a riff on Firestone Walker’s longtime commitment to brewing and aging beer in oak barrels.

A Seasonal Staple
Oaktoberfest has been a seasonal staple at Firestone Walker dating back to the inaugural release in 2006. Each year, however, tweaks are made to take the beer to new heights. For the 2024 edition this included a new finishing hop—Hallertau Mittelfrüh, a classic German heirloom variety.

“Hallertau Mittelfrüh is a perfect fit for Oaktoberfest,” Brynildson said. “It’s less fruity compared to a lot of modern hops, and it has more of a resinous and cedarwood character that really plays well with the beer’s malty base.”

As always, the latest Oaktoberfest was brewed with all-German ingredients, including Weyermann Pilsner malts and Vienna malts, with a dash of Munich and Cara Red. “The Vienna malt helps drive the beer’s golden-amber hue and malty flavors,” Brynildson said. “We’re purposely going for more of a golden hue versus something reddish, because that’s how these beers are in Germany—just a bit more golden than a Helles.”

Stoked on Oak
For the past several years, a portion of Oaktoberfest has been lagered in oak barrels inherited from a Napa Valley cult winery. This year, Brynildson and his team changed it up, sourcing the barrels from Winemaker Russell From of Herman Story Wines in Paso Robles.

“Russell is a good friend of ours, and his barrels are every bit as awesome as anything we’ve used before,” Brynildson said. “We’re not looking for a huge oak or wine impact from the barrels. Rather, the barrels lend a fifth element and an underlying presence in the texture of the beer. It’s hard to put your finger on, but it’s wholly different than if the beer was lagered only in stainless steel.”

Oaktoberfest’s light golden-amber color foreshadows its toasty, biscuity flavor. The oak-barrel lagering allows for an even smoother texture, all while remaining true to the beer’s crisp malt profile and hints of noble hops.

“Oaktoberfest is rich in flavor but also light-bodied and easy to drink—it’s the kind of beer you naturally crave as summer turns to fall,” Brynildson said. “Personally, it brings me back to all of our adventures sourcing hops in Germany and taking our team to experience Oktoberfest firsthand. It’s like putting those experiences into the liquid and then adding an extra touch of California flair.”

Firestone Walker Brewing
Founded in 1996 by brothers-in-law Adam Firestone and David Walker, Firestone Walker is a second-generation, family-led brewery based on California’s Central Coast. Helmed by highly decorated Brewmaster Matt Brynildson, Firestone Walker’s main brewery in Paso Robles produces a diverse portfolio including 805, California’s #1 craft beer brand; Mind Haze, a top 5 national hazy IPA; and Cali Squeeze, one of the nation’s fastest-growing beer brands. The Firestone brand family also includes iconic beers such as DBA, Union Jack, and Pivo Pils, as well as the storied Vintage Series of barrel-aged strong ales led by Parabola. As a California beer company, Firestone Walker also has two additional locations: the Barrelworks wild ale cellar in Santa Barbara County and the Propagator R&D brewhouse in Venice. Firestone Walker was recently named “Best American Brewery of the Decade” by Paste Magazine. More at 805beer.com and FirestoneWalker.com

 

ICON Collective (‘ICON’) has partnered with DESTIHL Brewery – a Central Illinois regional brewery headquartered in Normal, IL and founded by Illinois alums – on the production of two new beers set to debut at the Illinois Football season opener against Eastern Illinois on August 29th. ILL-IPA and Oskee Light, a premium light lager, will be available for purchase at Memorial Stadium, offering a new opportunity for fans to support the name-image-likeness (‘NIL’) efforts of ICON that benefit Fighting Illini student-athletes. DESTIHL will also become a Proud Partner of University of Illinois Athletics through a new sponsorship agreement with Fighting Illini Sports Properties (‘FISP’).

ICON will receive a portion of revenue from the sale of DESTIHL’s two Illini-themed beers, which will be available throughout football season at Memorial Stadium and basketball season at State Farm Center. In addition to Illinois’ athletic facilities, ILL-IPA and Oskee Light will soon be available at select bars, restaurants, and retail stores in the Champaign-Urbana area in early September. Also, with DESITHL’s strong distributor relationships throughout the State of Illinois, including Chicagoland, and about 40 states throughout the country and growing, these beers will also become available for those who want to support both Fighting Illini Athletics and ICON’s NIL efforts from afar. DESTIHL’s Beer Finder can help fans find these products once they are fully released.

“As we enter year four of NIL, we continue to look for innovative ways to engage our fans and increase financial support for Fighting Illini student-athletes,” ICON President and CEO Kathleen Knight said. “We are pleased to partner with DESTIHL, an award-winning local brewer with ties to the University of Illinois, and to offer these festive Illini-themed beverages on gameday and beyond.”

“Fighting Illini Athletics is very excited to partner with DESTIHL Brewery,” said Rob Louthain, General Manager of Fighting Illini Sports Properties (‘FISP’). “DESTIHL’s strong connection to the University in combination with its quality, sheer size and distribution reach will help ensure that Illinois alums from around the country get to enjoy these beers while supporting both Fighting Illini Athletics and our student-athletes”, continued Parish Mason, Manager – Business Development of FISP.

“We are proud to support Fighting Illini student-athletes and ICON through the creation and sale of ILL-IPA and Oskee Light,” said DESTIHL founder and CEO, Matt Potts. “Orange and Blue runs deep through our family, with myself, my wife Lyn, and our two oldest children all being graduates of Illinois, along with extended family. It’s a tremendous honor to apply our years of craft brewing to come full circle with this project for our fellow Illini fans and to enjoy these amazing beers together while rallying to support and cheer our Illini on to victory.”

For those looking for additional ways to support NIL efforts, ICON also offers individual and corporate memberships through the ICON for Illini and ICON Business Coalition programs. Each membership program provides tangible and experiential benefits at all levels of giving. NIL continues to be one of the most direct and immediate ways for fans to positively impact the Illinois athletic program and help the Illini gain and maintain a competitive advantage over their peers. Visit ICONforIllini.com or follow ICON on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook at @ICONforIllini.

For more information about Fighting Illini Athletics, please visit its website at www.fightingillini.com, and for more information about DESTIHL, please visit its website at www.DESTIHL.com.

Oxford, Ohio(2024) – Breweries from the coast of Kona, Hawaii to the rocky coast of Portland, Maine sent more than 9,000 beers representing over 170 different styles to the 2024 U.S. Open Beer Championship. Today, the U.S. Open Beer Championship announces the medal winners and Grand National Champion.

Third Eye Brewing of Hamilton, Ohio was awarded the 2024 Grand National Champion by winning 4 gold medals, 2 silver medals, and 2 bronze medals. Their gold medal winners included Higher Consciousness, Double Astral, Dark Aura, and Inner Sight. Third Eye Brewing is known for brewing some style-defining beers that are consistent winners throughout many competitions. Most notably, Third Eye won the Brewery of the Year at the 2023 Great American Beer Festival.

Monday Night Brewing, from Atlanta, Georgia placed second overall by winning 4 gold and 4 bronze medals. Gold medals included Spoken Wisdom, Tears of Our Enemies, Madrigal, and Simple Illusion. Monday Night Brewing not only makes great beers, this Georgia brewery has finished in the U.S. Open’s Top Ten Breweries several times.

Sun King Brewery out of Indianapolis, Indiana placed Third by winning 3 golds for their Barrel Aged Scout Badge, Banana Daquiri, and their Collaboration Beer, Up For Anything, brewed with 18th Street Brewery. They also took home a silver and 2 bronze medals. Sun King Brewery has been crowned Grand National Champion in the 2019 and 2022 U.S. Open Beer Championship.

The U.S. Open Beer Championship judges more beer styles than any other competition in the world. The U.S. Open is also the only major beer competition to allow the gold medal winners of the AHA’s National Homebrew Competition to participate. This year, 3 homebrewers won medals which ties the U.S. Open record. Big congratulations go to Christopher Burgess from Castle Rock, CO for winning a gold medal for his Like Falling Off A Bike, Brutt IPA, to Lucas Orr from San Diego, CA for winning a gold medal for his Kilt Dropper, Strong Scottish Ale, and to Mark Kunzelmann from St Louis, MO for winning bronze for his Belgian Pale Ale.

The U.S. Open judging was held at the U.S. Open Event Center in Oxford, Ohio. The U.S. Open became the first beer competition to be held in its own venue which is a 6,000 square-foot Amish pole barn located on a small farm. The barn consists of a judging area, a serving area, two 450-square-foot coolers, an office, and a nano brewery. To see “The Barn”, Click here to see a YouTube video of the 15th Anniversary of the U.S. Open Beer Championship.

Most importantly, we would like thank all the volunteers and judges. The majority of our volunteer staff were from 6 different countries and 11 different states.

Top 10 Breweries in 2024’s U.S. Open Beer Championships
1. Third Eye Brewing — Ohio
2. Monday Night Brewing – Georgia
3. Sun King Brewery – Indiana
4. O.H.S.O. Brewery Gilbert – Arizona
5. Cherry Street Brewpub at Halcyon – Georgia
6. Urban Artifact – Ohio
7. Boulevard Brewing Co. – Missouri
8. Feather Falls Brewing Co. – California
8. Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. – Iowa
9. Sonder Brewing – Ohio
10. Burgeon Beer Co. – California

2024 U.S. Open Beer Championship Medal Winners – Click Here

Pink Boots Category: Toms River Brewing takes home the Gold
The U.S. Open Beer Championship partnered with the Pink Boots Society, an organization that assists, inspires, and encourages women and non-binary individuals in the fermented/alcoholic beverage profession through education, to create the Pink Boots Blend Category. The organization has partnered with Yakima Chief Hops for several years to sell a special hops blend to benefit the Pink Boots scholarship fund, and all beers developed using this hop blend were eligible to enter the category. Hear Us Roar, brewed by Toms River Brewing in Toms River, NJ, brought home the gold medal. All entry fees for the category will be matched by the U.S. Open Beer Championship and donated back to the Pink Boots Society Scholarship Fund.

What’s in a Name?
U.S. Open beer judges always enjoy the creativity behind the names that breweries choose for their products, and judge winners subjectively (based on laughter volume) at the competition’s conclusion. This year’s Top 10 on the laughs meter included:

Top 10 Beer Names at the U.S. Open Beer Championship
1. Barrel-Aged Macadizzamia Nizzut – Unrefined Brewing – Florida
2. All Cap’n, No Crunch – Tarnished Hallow Brewing Co. – Indiana
3. Just Give Me ALL The Bacon – Akademia Brewing – Georgia
4. Fat Kids Birthday Party -Cherry Street Brewing at Vickery Village – Georgia
5. Not My Gumdrop Buttons – Model A Brewing Company – South Carolina
6. Hot Sauce Committee – Good Line Beer Co. – Texas
7. The Elves Have Gone Too Far – Bickersons Brewhouse – Washington
8. Bones Are Their Money – Site-1 Brewing Co. – Nebraska
9. Spaghetti Policy – South O Brewing – California
10. Hopswitch Engage – Afterglow Brewing – Virginia

DALLAS— Andy’s Frozen Custard® and Lakewood Brewing Co. will build the world’s largest beer float at Lakewood on Saturday, June 29 at 1 p.m. using 50 scoops of Andy’s World Famous Frozen Custard, the best-frozen treat in the entire world, and 50 pints – a full keg – of Lakewood’s Temptress, the number one selling craft milk stout in Texas. The previous record was set in February in Ohio using about 20 pints (9 liters) of Third Eye Brewing’s Higher Purpose Milk Stout and 36 Graeters Vanilla Ice Cream scoops.

Andy’s will be on-site at Lakewood with its treat truck from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. with a fresh full menu of rich, thick and decadent treats, featuring smooth and creamy vanilla and chocolate frozen custard, transformed into luscious Concretes, Jackhammers™, shakes, and sundaes. Undecided treat seekers can get creative and customize their own treats with vanilla frozen custard and topping favorites like fresh fruit, hot fudge, and Andy’s famous roasted pecans.

Those in attendance can also register to win Andy’s for a year, as well as a Lakewood Brewing Lion’s Den Annual Membership, which offers one complimentary beer per visit with no annual limit. Both Andy’s and Lakewood merch will be available to commemorate the occasion, including a free Andy’s and Lakewood glass for the first 100 guests.

“Andy’s and Lakewood are brands known for a superlative focus on product quality, using only the finest ingredients and selling what we have carefully made in-house,” added Wim Bens, founder and president of Lakewood Brewing. “Marrying the two to create one of the most iconic symbols of summer will be one for the record books.”

Whether it’s a midday outing with the kids or a much-needed mid-day office break, Andy’s offers a sweet treat anytime and for everyone, offering frozen custard that is always Made Fresh Hourly™. In addition to locations in Carrollton, Frisco, Lake Highlands, The Colony, Hillcrest Village, and Prosper, Ranchers Frozen Custard operates the Andy’s Treat Truck in Klyde Warren Park and will be opening a new location in Allen this summer.

Lakewood is most notably known for its Temptress Imperial Milk Stout and offers a portfolio that also includes Stub’s – Texas Pils, year-round IPA’s, lagers, stouts, and popular seasonal offerings like Sunburst Wheat, all of which draw beer lovers to the Brewery and Taproom at 2302 Executive Drive in Garland. Lakewood beers are available on shelves Texas-wide and can be found using Lakewood’s online Beer Finder.

About Lakewood Brewing Company
Lakewood Brewing Company is a family-owned, independent craft brewery making Seriously Fun Beer. Lakewood exploded onto the DFW brewing scene in 2012 and became famous for its Temptress Imperial Milk Stout, now the best-selling craft stout in Texas. Its diverse beer portfolio includes IPA’s, Lagers, seasonal, and limited release beers. For more information, visit Lakewood Brewing’s official website.

About Andy’s Frozen Custard
Founded in 1986 in Osage Beach, Missouri by Andy’s parents John and Carol Kuntz, Andy’s Frozen Custard has been providing the freshest frozen custard in the business for 37 years, giving ice cream the “cold shoulder” by scooping, mixing and presenting handcrafted frozen custard treats with speed and a smile. Since the beginning, the family has had one dream: to share what makes them happiest with everyone else, and to warm hearts, one scoop of frozen custard at a time. With a focus on product quality, customer service and community involvement, Andy’s has grown into the nation’s largest frozen custard-only business, with more than 2,000 employees and 136 company-owned and franchised stores across 15 states proudly serving the World’s Finest Frozen Custard. Andy’s also offers the ‘Yum Squad Loyalty Club,’ designed to say “thank you” to loyal customers by earning points to redeem towards a free treat for every dollar spent. For more information or for details about franchising opportunities, check on Andy’s Frozen Custard online.