News

Health Benefits of Beer: A Balanced Look

August 22, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Beer, a globally cherished beverage, is celebrated for its flavor and role in social gatherings. When enjoyed responsibly, it may also offer health benefits. Below, we dive into some potential advantages of moderate beer consumption, supported by research, while emphasizing responsible drinking.

Nutrient Content
Beer contains antioxidants from barley and hops, similar to wine, along with B vitamins, protein, iron, calcium, and trace amounts of fiber. These nutrients vary by beer type, making it a surprisingly nutrient-rich option when consumed in moderation. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry

Heart Health Support
Moderate beer consumption may reduce the risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes by 30–35% compared to non-drinkers. Responsible alcohol intake can support cardiovascular health, but excess consumption negates these benefits. New England Journal of Medicine

Kidney Health
Certain beers, particularly hop-heavy varieties like pale ales, contain phytochemicals that may lower the risk of kidney stones by up to 41%. Moderation is essential to avoid adverse effects. Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology

Cholesterol Management
The soluble fiber in beer can help lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, promoting healthier blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Excessive drinking, however, may impair nutrient absorption, so balance is key. American Heart Association: Circulation

Bone Strength
Beer’s silicon content, in the form of orthosilicic acid, may support bone and connective tissue health, potentially reducing the risk of osteoporosis. National Institutes of Health

Stress Reduction
Enjoying one or two beers can help ease stress and promote relaxation. However, using alcohol as a primary stress-relief method is not recommended, as it may lead to negative health outcomes over time. American Journal of Psychiatry

Cognitive Benefits
Preliminary studies suggest xanthohumol, a compound in hops, may protect brain cells from oxidative stress, potentially supporting memory. Effective doses, however, often exceed typical beer consumption, and more research is needed. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry

Brain Function
Moderate alcohol consumption, including beer, is associated with improved cognitive performance in middle-aged adults. Overconsumption does not enhance these effects and may be harmful. American Journal of Epidemiology

Nutrient-Dense Ingredients
Beer is crafted from whole grains, fruits, and spices, providing small amounts of fiber, iron, potassium, and magnesium. Nutrient profiles vary by beer style, contributing to its potential benefits.

Stroke Prevention
Moderate beer consumption may improve blood flow and reduce the risk of ischemic strokes (the most common type) by 25–40% due to its blood-thinning properties. American Heart Association

Important Note: Moderate drinking is defined as up to one drink per day for women and two for men. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to serious health risks, including addiction and liver damage.

For more information on beer, brewing, and responsible enjoyment, explore reputable resources or consult local breweries.

Fun Beer Facts, Breweries and More: Click Here

Capital Brewery & Bier Garten Toasts to 40 Years

August 22, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Pull up a stool in “Middleton’s Backyard” and raise a pint to Capital Brewery & Bier Garten as it celebrates its 40th anniversary. Since its founding in 1984 in downtown Middleton, Wisconsin, this trailblazing craft brewery has united beer lovers with its award-winning German-style lagers and vibrant community spirit.

Back in the ‘80s, when craft breweries were scarce, founders Ed Janus and Tony Frey started with a dream and no assets. Through word-of-mouth crowdfunding—before the internet made it trendy—they raised $500,000 by selling $10 shares to 300 investors, now grown to 1,600. They transformed a historic egg factory, imported German brewing kettles, and launched a legacy.

As the Midwest’s oldest continuously operating micro craft brewery, Capital has racked up over 240 awards, including a crowning achievement: Grand National Champion at the 2013 U.S. Open Beer Championship. Led by President Scott Wiener, General Manager Kevin Bagstad, and Brewmaster Tanner Brethorst, the brewery balances tradition with innovation. Brethorst, who joined in 2021, experiments with new brews on their seven-barrel system, noting, “Seeing smiles when people taste my beer—that’s the real reward.”

The expanded Bier Garten, open from spring to snowfall, hosts live music, welcomes carry-ins, and fosters community with events like weddings and fundraisers. The Capital Brewery Bike Club, started in 2009, rides three times weekly, while the indoor Bier Stube, with its century-old Chicago speakeasy bar, keeps the vibe cozy year-round.

Capital’s lineup, including Pilsner, Munich Dark, flagship Wisconsin Amber, and the six-time platinum-winning Blonde Doppelbock (tapped at Bockfest, Feb. 21, 2025), continues to shine. Their small size allows flexibility to can new brews or revive classics, keeping fans happy. Wiener reflects, “We’re woven into Middleton’s fabric, and hitting 40 years with a Grand National Champion title is incredible.”

Cheers to Capital Brewery for 40 years of craft, community, and championship brews!

Current Beers available at Capital Brewery:

Wisconsin Amber
Style: Amber Lager
ABV: 5.2%
IBU: 28
Description: A rich amber lager with a perfect balance of roasted caramel malts and clean hop flavors. Brewed since 1995, it’s Capital’s flagship beer, synonymous with Wisconsin’s craft beer heritage. Ideal for any occasion, it’s smooth, flavorful, and widely available in cans.

Capital Pilsner
Style: German-Style Pilsner
ABV: 4.7%
IBU: Not specified
Description: A classic European-style Pilsner brewed with imported malts and noble hops. It offers a slight sweetness from pilsner malt, balanced by clean, dry bitterness. One of Capital’s original Garten Brau beers, it’s crisp, refreshing, and a timeless favorite.

Munich Dark
Style: Dunkel Lager
ABV: 5.4%
IBU: Not specified
Description: A traditional European Dunkel lager with a dark caramel malt flavor and a smooth, dry finish. One of Capital’s original beers, it’s their most award-winning brew, known for its rich, approachable taste.

Sticky Paw Honey Blonde Ale
Style: Blonde Ale
ABV: 5.0%
IBU: 16
Description: A light, easy-drinking blonde ale brewed with pure Wisconsin honey for a refreshing, subtly sweet experience. Crafted by Brewmaster Tanner Brethorst, it’s perfect for both craft beer enthusiasts and those new to the scene. Now bottled and sold year-round due to its popularity.

Supper Club
Style: American Lager
ABV: 5.0%
IBU: Not specified
Description: An eminently drinkable American lager with a classic Wisconsin malt profile. It features a moderate mouthfeel, mild bitterness, and superb drinkability, evoking the nostalgic vibe of a Wisconsin supper club.

Island Wheat
Style: American Wheat Beer
ABV: 4.5%
IBU: Not specified
Description: A crisp, refreshing wheat beer brewed with Wisconsin wheat. Known for its mild, approachable drinkability, it offers a floral hop aroma and a silky-smooth finish, making it a crowd-pleaser for warm days.

Mutiny IPA
Style: India Pale Ale
ABV: 6.2%
IBU: Not specified
Description: Capital’s first IPA, featuring a bright amber hue and a bold, floral-citrus hop aroma. Six unique hops deliver assertive bitterness balanced by subtle malt sweetness, making it remarkably drinkable despite its punch.

Seasonal Beers
Awesummer Ale (Available: May – July)
Style: Blonde Ale
ABV: 5.0%
IBU: 18
Description: A summer seasonal blonde ale brewed with sweet and bitter orange peel and Mandarina Bavaria hops. It bursts with fresh orange aroma and flavor, offering a light, easy-drinking experience perfect for warm days. Note: May not be available in August but included for completeness.

Winter Skal (Available: November – February)
Style: Amber Lager
ABV: 5.4%
IBU: Not specified
Description: A warming amber lager with a rich malt heritage and a smooth hop flavor. Its amber hue and mild bitterness make it a cozy companion for cold winter months. Note: Not currently available in August but listed for reference.

Limited-Release Beers
Blonde Doppelbock (Available: February, tapped during Bockfest)
Style: Doppelbock
ABV: 7.8%
IBU: Not specified
Description: A deep golden lager with intense malt character, yet surprisingly drinkable. This six-time platinum winner at the World Beer Championships is a highlight of Capital’s annual Bockfest (next on Feb. 21, 2025). Treat this “malt monster” with respect for its rich, bold flavor.

Pumpkinataur
Style: Pumpkin Beer
ABV: Not specified
IBU: Not specified
Description: A dark copper-colored pumpkin beer with bold cinnamon and pumpkin aromas, accented by a pinch of nutmeg. Its creamy pumpkin palate delivers sweet, fantastic flavors without overwhelming spice, making it smooth and crave-worthy. Likely available in fall, so check the tap list for current status.

Ash’s SMaSHes Part 1
Style: Blonde/Golden Ale or Pale Ale
ABV: Not specified
IBU: Not specified
Description: A single-malt-and-single-hop (SMaSH) beer featuring Amarillo hops and Capital’s pale base malt. It sits between a blonde and pale ale, offering a bright, hop-forward profile with citrusy notes and a clean malt backbone. Check tap availability for this limited release.

Bavarian Lager
Style: Helles Lager
ABV: Not specified
IBU: Not specified
Description: A mild, classic German Helles-style lager with a clean, refreshing profile. It’s light and approachable, perfect for those seeking a traditional lager experience. Availability may be limited, so confirm with the brewery.

Dark Doppelbock
Style: Doppelbock
ABV: 7.8%
IBU: Not specified
Description: A rich, dark lager with smooth, toasted malt flavors of espresso, dark chocolate, and burnt caramel. Perfect for toasting the end of fall or warming up in winter, it’s a full-flavored experience with a subtle hop presence.

🍻 #CapitalBrewery #40YearsStrong #USOpenBeerChampion

Roadhouse Brewing and Breakside Brewery Drop Hypersonic Kush IPA: A Citrus-Charged Hazy Hops Bomb

August 22, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Jackson Hole, WY — Get ready for a flavor explosion! Roadhouse Brewing Co. teams up with Breakside Brewery to unleash Hypersonic Kush, the latest hop-fueled masterpiece in Roadhouse’s bold Kush Series. This citrus-packed Hazy IPA, brewed with a killer combo of Zumo, Mosaic, Chinook, and Strata hops, is here to blast your taste buds into orbit.

“This collab with Breakside was a no-brainer,” says Max Shafer, Roadhouse’s Brewmaster. “They’re rockstars in the craft beer world, and we both love pushing the boundaries of what a beer can be.” Breakside’s Brewmaster, Ben Edmunds, adds, “Hypersonic Kush is a love letter to hops. Zumo brings zesty lime and lemon vibes, while Mosaic and Chinook deliver that dank West Coast edge. Strata rounds it out with tropical flair. Plus, it’s awesome to support American hop farmers by blending public and private hop varieties in a way that keeps the craft beer community thriving.”

This 6.2% ABV Hazy IPA is a citrus lover’s dream, bursting with candied lime, lemon zest, and tropical notes, all wrapped in a smooth, hazy finish. Brewed with innovative Zumo hops from Segal Ranch in Washington, alongside classic heavyweights, Hypersonic Kush is a bold, refreshing sip that’s perfect for craft beer fans looking for something new.

Now Available: Grab Hypersonic Kush in 16 oz. 4-packs or on draft at bars, grocery stores, and convenience stores across Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Nevada, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming.

About Roadhouse Brewing Co.
Founded in 2012 in the heart of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Roadhouse Brewing Co. was born from a passion for craft beer, mountain culture, and culinary creativity. The brewery was established by chef-turned-entrepreneur Colby Cox and his business partner, Gavin Fine, both driven by a vision to create bold, flavorful beers that reflect the rugged, adventurous spirit of the Tetons. As a Certified B Corp, Roadhouse emphasizes sustainability and community, crafting beers that pair perfectly with the music, food, and outdoor lifestyle of the Mountain West. From its original brewpub to its expanded production facility, Roadhouse has grown into a regional favorite, distributing across 10 states while staying true to its Jackson Hole roots.

Under the leadership of Brewmaster Max Shafer, Roadhouse Brewing Co. produces a diverse lineup of beers that cater to both hop heads and flavor explorers. Their portfolio includes year-round offerings like The Walrus Hazy IPA, a juicy crowd-pleaser, and Wilson West Coast IPA, a crisp nod to classic hoppy brews, alongside seasonal and limited releases like the Kush Series, which showcases innovative hop-forward collaborations. Shafer’s team experiments with unique ingredients and cutting-edge hop varieties, such as Zumo in their recent Hypersonic Kush IPA, blending culinary artistry with brewing precision. With a commitment to quality and creativity, Roadhouse continues to push boundaries, delivering beers that embody the wild, untamed spirit of their Teton surroundings. Learn more at roadhousebrewery.com.

About Breakside Brewery
Breakside Brewery was founded in 2010 by Scott Lawrence in Northeast Portland, Oregon, initially operating as a small brewpub in the Dekum neighborhood. Lawrence, who previously worked in software sales in South Carolina, was inspired to turn his passion for craft beer and communal dining into a career after a transformative trip to Alaska. The brewery expanded significantly in 2013 with a production facility and taproom in Milwaukie, Oregon, boosting its capacity to 40,000 barrels per year. By 2019, Breakside had become employee-owned, a rare model in the industry, and now operates eight locations in the Portland area plus a taproom in Astoria, producing around 30,000 barrels annually while distributing to multiple states and international markets.

Ben Edmunds serves as the founding brewmaster, having joined early on with a background that includes a Spanish degree from Yale University and brewing education from the Siebel Institute. Over the years, the brewing team has included talents like Sam Barber and Jacob Leonard, contributing to the brewery’s innovative approach. Breakside is celebrated for its diverse and award-winning beers, ranging from classic styles to experimental creations, with popular offerings including Breakside Pilsner, JoyRx pale ale, and Post Time kölsch. The brewery has earned accolades such as Brewery of the Year at the Oregon Beer Awards multiple times (2017, 2019–2022) and focuses on a broad portfolio that emphasizes quality and creativity, available on draft and in packages across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Learn more at breakside.com.

About the Kush Series
Roadhouse’s Kush Series is all about hop-forward collabs with cutting-edge breweries. Each release highlights unique hop varieties and bold flavors, celebrating the art and science of craft brewing.

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

August 20, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top 10 Beer Festivals in America plus a few more: Click Here!

Pinnacle Brewing’s Novo 11° Czech Dark Lager Snags “Beer of the Year” at 2025 USA Beer Ratings!

August 20, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Scottsdale, AZ – Cheers to Pinnacle Brewing Company! Their Novo 11° Czech Dark Lager just took home the coveted “USA Beer of the Year” title in the Czech Lager category at the 2025 USA Beer Ratings Competition in San Francisco.

This isn’t just any win—Novo 11° wowed a panel of beer pros who judged based on Quality, Value, and Packaging through blind tastings. They raved about its “dark golden brown hue, sweet nutty aroma, and layered notes of toasted barley, oat, and coffee with a clean, complex finish.” Sounds like a pint worth sipping!

But wait, there’s more! Pinnacle didn’t stop at one win—they bagged Gold Medals for four other brews:

Surveillance Pigeon – Cold Double IPA
Springtoberfest – Maibock
Druid, Where’s My Car? – English Extra Stout
Tori – Japanese Rice Lager

Brewmaster Wyatt Wilson, the genius behind these brews, shared his excitement: “We’re all about crafting classic beers with a modern twist, inspired by my time in Europe. Czech lagers are my jam—they’re the best beers out there. So, seeing Novo 11° get this love is just awesome.”

More about Pinnacle Brewing
Pinnacle Brewing Company, founded in 2018 in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a family-owned craft brewery that has quickly become a standout in the American beer scene. With a mission to reimagine classic beer styles, Pinnacle draws inspiration from European brewing traditions while infusing modern creativity, earning them the motto “Beer Reinspired.” Starting as a small operation, Pinnacle has grown steadily, building a loyal following for its authentic yet inventive brews that celebrate both heritage and bold new flavors.

At the helm is Brewmaster Wyatt Wilson, whose passion for Czech lagers and European brewing techniques shapes Pinnacle’s distinctive portfolio. Wyatt’s hands-on approach ensures each beer stays true to its roots while offering a contemporary twist, blending tradition with originality. Alongside their award-winning Novo 11°, Pinnacle’s lineup includes standout beers like Surveillance Pigeon (Cold Double IPA), Springtoberfest (Maibock), Druid, Where’s My Car? (English Extra Stout), and Tori (Japanese Rice Lager), all of which earned Gold Medals in 2025. From crisp lagers to robust stouts, Pinnacle’s beers reflect Wyatt’s vision of crafting approachable yet sophisticated brews that appeal to beer lovers everywhere.

Top 10 Beer Festivals in America plus a few more: Click Here!