News

Wind & Waves: a Hometown Collaboration between California Wild Ales and Open Outcry Brewing

July 12, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Open Outcry Brewing California Wild Ales — Photo Credit: California Wild Ales & Open Outcry Brewing

CHICAGO, IL — A new West Coast IPA, Wind & Waves, is set to make waves on Chicago’s Southwest Side. This exciting collaboration between California Wild Ales in San Diego and Open Outcry Brewing Co. (10934 S. Western Ave., Chicago, IL) in Beverly blends coastal flair with local pride. Beer enthusiasts can enjoy the debut of this unique brew on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at Open Outcry’s taproom.

A Beer Rooted in Community

Wind & Waves is more than just a craft beer—it’s a celebration of friendship, community, and shared heritage. The collaboration brings together Bill DeWitt, a Beverly native and owner of California Wild Ales, and Open Outcry Brewing, a beloved neighborhood spot led by South Side locals Jim and Katie Beck.

“This beer is a tribute to our roots and the connections that tie us to Beverly,” said Bill DeWitt, who grew up in St. Cajetan’s Parish, just blocks from Open Outcry. Both Bill (Class of ’92) and his wife, Monica DeWitt (née Garza, Class of ’95), are St. Cajetan’s alumni, making this project a heartfelt homecoming. Adding to the nostalgia, Monica and Open Outcry co-owner Katie Beck (Class of ’96, Marian Catholic High School) share a longstanding friendship from their school days.

From Beverly to San Diego: The Story Behind the Brew

Bill DeWitt moved to San Diego in 2009, drawn by its sunny beaches and vibrant craft beer scene. What began as a small sour beer club evolved into California Wild Ales, now a celebrated brewery with tasting rooms in Ocean Beach and Point Loma, known for its innovative barrel-aged sours and saisons.

Meanwhile, Open Outcry Brewing has become a cornerstone of Beverly’s community, offering handcrafted beers, delicious food, and a rooftop dining experience that captures the South Side’s spirit. “This is our first long-distance collaboration since becoming owners, and it’s special to do it with friends who share our neighborhood ties,” said Jim Beck, a St. Barnabas Parish native.

What Makes Wind & Waves Special?

Wind & Waves is a bold, crisp West Coast IPA that combines the best of both breweries. Expect bright, hoppy flavors with a refreshing bitterness that evokes Lake Michigan’s breezes and Pacific Ocean swells. This beer bridges the gap between Chicago’s Southwest Side and San Diego’s coastal vibes, offering a unique taste that’s perfect for craft beer lovers.

“It’s about more than just great beer,” said Monica DeWitt. “It’s about bringing people together and celebrating the places and friendships that shape us.”

Where to Try Wind & Waves

Join the celebration at Open Outcry Brewing (10934 S. Western Ave., Chicago, IL) on July 20, 2025, to taste Wind & Waves. The taproom’s welcoming atmosphere, complete with rooftop views, is the perfect spot to enjoy this limited-release IPA. Can’t make it to Chicago? Visit California Wild Ales at their Ocean Beach or Point Loma tasting rooms in San Diego to experience the brew.

About California Wild Ales

Founded by Bill DeWitt, California Wild Ales is a San Diego-based brewery renowned for its creative barrel-aged sours and saisons. With two vibrant tasting rooms in Ocean Beach and Point Loma, it’s a go-to destination for craft beer enthusiasts seeking bold, adventurous flavors.

About Open Outcry Brewing

Located in the heart of Beverly at 10934 S. Western Ave., Open Outcry Brewing is a neighborhood favorite owned by Jim and Katie Beck. Known for its craft beers, rooftop dining, and community-driven vibe, it’s a gathering place for locals to connect over great food and drink.

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

Lawson’s Finest Liquids’ New Cosmic Shift IPA Will Benefit 10 Nonprofits Across 9 States

July 12, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Craft beer lovers and do-gooders, get ready to sip with impact! Lawson’s Finest Liquids, the Vermont-based, B Corp Certified brewery, has launched Cosmic Shift IPA (6.2% ABV), a juicy, hop-forward beer that’s out of this world. As part of their Social Impact Program (SIP), this limited-release IPA supports 10 nonprofits across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, marking the first time their Good Brews for a Cause initiative extends beyond Vermont. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a craft beer adventure, here’s why Cosmic Shift IPA is a must-try, plus details on how it gives back.

Cosmic Shift IPA: A Hoppy Brew with Heart

Cosmic Shift IPA is a bold, tropical delight from the makers of Sip of Sunshine IPA. Bursting with juicy hop flavors and vibrant aromas, this 6.2% ABV brew offers a refreshing, otherworldly experience. “Cosmic Shift is something truly special,” says Adeline Druart, CEO of Lawson’s Finest Liquids. “It captures bold, expressive hop flavors and channels them into a beer that supports vibrant communities.” Every sip helps fund meaningful causes, making it a perfect pick for socially conscious beer enthusiasts. Learn more at lawsonsfinest.com/cosmic-shift.

Supporting 10 Nonprofits Across 9 States

Through the Good Brews for a Cause program, Lawson’s Finest donates a portion of Cosmic Shift IPA proceeds to 10 nonprofits, with donations matched by their distribution partners. This initiative, part of the brewery’s SIP, has donated over $2.5 million to more than 400 organizations since 2018. Here are the 2025 beneficiaries, perfect for families exploring these regions:

Vermont Adaptive, Vermont (matched by Baker Distributing Company): Empowers people with disabilities through inclusive sports and recreation. Ideal for families visiting Vermont’s outdoor destinations like the Mad River Valley. www.vermontadaptive.org

Philabundance, Pennsylvania (matched by Sarene Craft Beer Distributors): Fights hunger with food access programs, great for families exploring Philadelphia’s historic sites. www.philabundance.org

Spoonfuls, Massachusetts (matched by Atlantic Beverage Distributors): Reduces food waste and feeds communities, perfect for Boston family trips. www.spoonfuls.org

Rhode Island Community Food Bank, Rhode Island (matched by Atlantic Beverage Distributors): Supports food security, a great cause near Providence’s family attractions. www.rifoodbank.org

Alzheimer’s Association, Connecticut Chapter, Connecticut (matched by Star Distributors and Hartford Distributors): Funds Alzheimer’s care and research, ideal for Hartford family vacations. www.alz.org/ct

NH Food Alliance, New Hampshire (matched by Vacationland Distributors): Promotes local food systems, perfect for families visiting New Hampshire’s lakes. www.nhfoodalliance.org

Cultivating Community, Maine (matched by Vacationland Distributors): Supports food justice and youth programs, great for Portland, Maine, family getaways. www.cultivatingcommunity.org

Community FoodBank of New Jersey, New Jersey (matched by Remarkable Liquids): Tackles hunger, ideal for families near Jersey Shore beaches. www.cfbnj.org

City Harvest, New York City (matched by Sarene Craft Beer Distributors): Rescues food for NYC families, perfect for Manhattan family adventures. www.cityharvest.org

United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes, Western New York (matched by T.J. Sheehan Distributing): Supports community health and education, great for Rochester family trips. www.uwrochester.org

Why Families Love Lawson’s Finest Liquids

Lawson’s Finest Liquids isn’t just about great beer—it’s about building vibrant communities. Their Waitsfield, Vermont, Taproom is a family-friendly destination with a welcoming vibe, local food, and live music. The SIP, which includes the Sunshine Fund and Sip of Support, has raised millions for causes like community health, food security, and environmental protection. Families visiting Vermont can enjoy Cosmic Shift IPA while supporting local nonprofits. Check out the brewery’s 2024 Impact Report for more on their mission at lawsonsfinest.com.

Taste the Freshness of Cosmic Shift IPA

Like all Lawson’s Finest brews, Cosmic Shift IPA is Cold Stored, Cold Shipped, Cold Shelved™ to ensure brewery-fresh flavor. Available across 13 states, including Vermont, New York, and Pennsylvania, it’s perfect for craft beer fans on vacation. Find it at select retailers or the Waitsfield Taproom. Use the Beer Finder at lawsonsfinest.com to locate Cosmic Shift IPA near your travel destination.

Plan Your Family Beer Adventure

Add Lawson’s Finest Liquids to your family vacation itinerary! Visit the Waitsfield Taproom for a fun, family-friendly experience, or grab Cosmic Shift IPA at retailers in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. Every purchase supports local nonprofits, making your trip both delicious and impactful. Explore more about Cosmic Shift IPA and the brewery’s community mission at lawsonsfinest.com/cosmic-shift. Cheers to great beer and great causes!

About Lawson’s Finest Liquids

Founded in 2008 by Sean and Karen Lawson, Lawson’s Finest Liquids is a B Corp Certified brewery dedicated to crafting award-winning beers like the Sunshine family of IPAs. From a 1-barrel nanobrewery to a 13-state distribution network, their Waitsfield, Vermont, Taproom is a must-visit for beer lovers. The Social Impact Program (SIP) has donated over $2.5 million to 400+ nonprofits since 2018, supporting community vitality and sustainability.

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

Dragon’s Milk Introduces Its First-Ever IPA

July 11, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Photo Credit: New Holland Brewing Company

Holland, MI – New Holland Brewing Co., the team behind the iconic Dragon’s Milk series, announces the release of Dragon’s Milk Emerald IPA, the first India Pale Ale to join the Dragon’s Milk family. Developed over two years, Emerald IPA is a hop-focused creation that stays true to the core values that have defined Dragon’s Milk for more than two decades: bold character, layered flavor, and a deep respect for time, oak, and craft.
Fermented entirely in large oak foeders, Emerald IPA develops natural vanilla, soft oak, and a round body from the start. This sets it apart from beers that are only barrel aged. Brewed with Lotus hops, it delivers bright citrus, floral lift, and gentle spice for a refreshing and complex finish.
“This beer is the natural result of our ongoing curiosity around what wood can do,” said Brett VanderKamp, Founder of New Holland Brewing Co. “We have always explored how time and oak shape flavor, and this time we applied that philosophy to hops. Emerald IPA is a new direction, but it carries the same spirit that defines every Dragon’s Milk release.”

Lotus hops bring notes of orange blossom, subtle spice, and a floral character that enhances the smooth, oak-kissed profile of the beer. Medium-bodied and expressive, Emerald IPA offers a distinctive take on the style while staying grounded in the Dragon’s Milk tradition.
Emerald IPA is now available on draft at New Holland Brewing Co.’s brewpubs in Holland and Grand Rapids, Michigan. It will also be distributed in select markets, including California, Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, North Carolina, and Connecticut.

First brewed in 2001, Dragon’s Milk began as a singular bourbon barrel aged stout and has grown into one of the most recognized barrel aged beer brands in the country. Each release continues the tradition of crafting beers with purpose and patience. Emerald IPA represents a new chapter in the Dragon’s Milk legacy. It is a vibrant and complex expression built on the same foundation of care, creativity, and barrel character.

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

Rupee Indian Beer Launches at H-E-B in Texas

July 11, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Dallas, Texas — Named Best Beer for World Food & 6 Beer Trends to Watch, Rupee Beer is an Indian-inspired line of easy-to-drink beers specially crafted to pair with Indian, spicy & global cuisine.

From the brands inception, Rupee has been a mission-centric organization on a quest to reimagine the way the world enjoys beer with global cuisine, while helping enhance the visibility of India – now the most populated country on earth, where beer consumption continues to become more and more of a common sight among India’s emerging consumers.

Rupee’s award-winning recipes have been featured in numerous global media publications, and its range includes an award-winning Basmati Rice Lager, British-India Pale Ale, and seasonal Mango Wheat Ale.
Adding to the array of regional and national chains the brand is available in, Rupee is excited to launch in select Texas based H-E-B locations across the DFW area where the brand recently launched via Ben. E Keith.

About Rupee Beer

Brothers Vanit & Sumit Sharma, sons of Indian restaurateurs in the curry trade for over 50 years, found they could never find reliable distribution of Indian beer in Maine – the least diverse state in America where their family immigrated to from the U.K.& Germany.

They decided to not only create a fresher tasting and more reliable local beer, but set out to bring some extra ‘masala & spice’ to the American beer market. The brothers partnered with global brewing legend Alan Pugsley, 40+ year master beer brewer, lover of Indian food as a British expat, and creator of over 100+ global beer brands, to create Rupee Beer and re-write everything society understands about beer as it relates to Indian, spicy and world cuisine.

For more information please visit https://rupeebeer.com/

Industrious and TALEA Beer Co. Release “Out Of Office” Blonde Honey Ale

July 10, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

New York, NY – July 7, 2025 – Industrious, a leading coworking and workplace experience provider, has partnered with TALEA Beer Co., New York City’s first women-owned brewery, to introduce Out Of Office, a limited-edition blonde honey ale. This unique collaboration celebrates in-person connections and the joy of post-work gatherings, available from July 7 through Labor Day 2025.

A Refreshing Collaboration for Hybrid Work Culture

The Out Of Office blonde honey ale, with a 5.2% ABV, offers a light, crisp taste with floral notes and a hint of honey. Perfect for summer Fridays, rooftop hangouts, or team happy hours, this beverage embodies the spirit of spontaneous connections that define great teams.

Liz Simon, Chief Operating Officer at Industrious, said, “The way we work has transformed, and so has how we connect. Out Of Office celebrates those irreplaceable moments—like after-work drinks or casual catch-ups—that strengthen relationships. Partnering with TALEA allows us to capture that energy in a can.”

Where to Find Out Of Office

Available at all five TALEA taprooms—Williamsburg, Cobble Hill, West Village, Bryant Park, and Penn District—the beer comes with a free day pass to any of Industrious’ 27 NYC coworking locations. Additionally, Industrious will serve Out Of Office at happy hours across its NYC spaces throughout the summer, with events designed to foster in-person collaboration in the hybrid work era.

Each can features a link to GetYourOOO.com, a fun tool that generates creative out-of-office email messages, encouraging professionals to step away from their desks and enjoy meaningful downtime.

TALEA and Industrious: A Perfect Pairing

LeAnn Darland, Co-CEO of TALEA, shared, “TALEA has always been a place where people work during the day and unwind after hours. This collaboration with Industrious celebrates that flexibility and the joy of connection. Out Of Office is our invitation to embrace summer, team bonding, and a little fun.”

Beer Details

Style: Blonde Honey Ale

ABV: 5.2%

Tasting Notes: Light, crisp, slightly floral with a touch of honey

Pairings: Summer Fridays, shaded rooftop hangs, team happy hours

This marks the first time a national coworking brand has partnered with a craft brewery to release a limited-edition beer, blending the worlds of work and leisure in a refreshing way.

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