Beer-articles 995

When the cool autumn weather begins, craft beer enthusiasts tend to gravitate towards the divisive yet beloved category of pumpkin beers. Among these, Southern Tier Brewing Company’s Nitro Warlock Imperial Pumpkin Stout has emerged as the standout selection for 2026, captivating beer lovers with its innovative use of nitrogen technology. This method, also known for giving Guinness its signature creaminess, enhances Nitro Warlock’s luxurious profile, making it a high-ABV option ideal for chilling autumn evenings.

Why Nitro Warlock is the Top Pumpkin Beer of 2026

The nitrogen infusion bestows a silky mouthfeel along with a creamy foam head, elevating the beer’s dessert-like quality. As a result, Nitro Warlock transforms into an indulgent concoction that conjures flavors of a chocolaty pumpkin pie milkshake with a hint of coffee. This brew, part of Southern Tier’s Blackwater Series, triumphs over their flagship imperial pumpkin ale, Pumking, as the top pick in the 2026 Best Beers Awards.

While Pumking focuses on bright pumpkin pie spices, graham cracker crust, and sweet vanilla, Nitro Warlock shifts the emphasis to roasted dark grains, cocoa, and mild coffee bitterness. Its rich profile makes it a perfect pair for those autumn evenings spent handing out Halloween treats.

• Style: Pumpkin Ale
• Brewery: Southern Tier Brewing Co., Lakewood, NY
• ABV: 8.6%

Methodology for Selection

The selection process for the best beers involved personal tasting alongside expert recommendations, industry accolades, and online reviews. Inputs from favorite platforms such as Untappd further informed the rankings. As a seasoned expert in the craft beer field, with over two decades of writing experience and six published books on the subject, the evaluation criteria encompassed appearance, flavor, head retention, and overall finish, assessed through multiple sips in proper glassware.

With this rigorous methodology, Nitro Warlock Imperial Pumpkin Stout not only claims its title for the season but also solidifies its position in the broader landscape of craft beer excellence.

Japanese brewer Sapporo has announced plans to relocate some of its beer production from Canada to the United States in response to the recent implementation of a 50% tariff on beer imported from Canada. This significant cost increase has prompted Sapporo to consider localizing its production.

Rieko Shofu, the chief strategy officer at Sapporo, stated that the tariffs are beyond the company’s control, leading them to reinforce local production efforts. The brewery aims to shift the production of its non-alcoholic beer—currently manufactured in Canada for the U.S. market—to the U.S. by the first half of 2027.

The U.S. is a crucial market for Sapporo, and this change could directly impact operations at its Canadian subsidiary, Sleeman Breweries. To offset the rising costs, Sapporo is exploring options to enhance its production capabilities on the U.S. West Coast, which may involve building new facilities, purchasing existing breweries, or collaborating with third-party manufacturers.

Sapporo has been expanding its presence in the U.S. for several years and has become the best-selling Asian beer brand in the country. As the company aims for further international growth, with plans to invest up to ¥400 billion ($2.6 billion) by 2030, a significant portion of this capital is allocated for international markets due to stagnating sales in Japan.

Additionally, the company announced a partnership with Danish brewer Carlsberg in July to enhance its reach in Southeast Asia.

This strategy shift by Sapporo is indicative of a broader trend, as many companies reassess their production locations amid increasing tariffs and trade barriers worldwide.

For further insights on the implications of tariffs, you can check the following links:

• Carney says US trade war ‘will come at a cost’
• US hits dozens of countries with new wave of tariffs

EU beer production experienced a decline in 2025, reaching a total of 34.4 billion liters. This decrease is notable as the shift toward alcohol-free beer continues to expand within the market. Germany has maintained its position as the largest beer producer in the European Union, followed closely by Spain, which also saw an increase in its beer production.

Of the 34.4 billion liters produced in the EU, 32.3 billion liters were beers with an alcohol content greater than 0.5% ABV, while the alcohol-free segment constituted approximately 2.1 billion liters, representing just over 6% of total production. This aligns with trends from previous years, showing a stagnation in conventional beer production, which contrasts sharply with the growth in the alcohol-free sector.

While Germany leads in production of alcohol-free beer, with output doubling over the past decade, Spain holds the highest consumption rates. In fact, one in four alcohol-free beers consumed in the EU is enjoyed in Spain, where sales of alcohol-free beer increased by 4.6% to 3.3 million hectoliters last year. Notably, this category now makes up about 14% of all beer consumed in Spain, highlighting its mainstream acceptance.

Interestingly, alcohol-free beer does not appear to be completely replacing regular beer. Research indicates that about 90% of those who drink alcohol-free beer also consume traditional beer. This evolution in consumer preferences reflects not only a growing acceptance of alcohol-free alternatives but also an improvement in the quality and marketing of these products, making them more appealing to the mainstream demographic.

Overall, the continued penetration of alcohol-free beer into the market signifies a shift in consumer trends, with younger drinkers leading this transition. As breweries adapt to declining sales of alcoholic beverages, the emphasis on quality and variety in the alcohol-free segment is likely to expand further.

Researchers observing trends in alcohol-related liver cancer deaths noticed a decline in these fatalities prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this downward trend experienced a significant reversal during the pandemic years.

This shift prompted concerns among health experts, who are working to analyze how socio-economic factors linked to the pandemic, including increased alcohol consumption due to stress and isolation, may have contributed to this troubling development. The data highlights the need for ongoing public health initiatives addressing alcohol use and its consequences, especially in the wake of global crises that can impact mental health and lifestyle choices.

For more information, refer to Alcohol-related liver cancer deaths were falling. Then the trend reversed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Since it’s Labor Day weekend, a study examined America’s favorite adult beverage—beer. Innerbody Research analyzed Google Trends to determine the most popular beers across all 50 states and Washington, D.C. over the past year, leading to a ranking based on search interest scores.

For the second year running, Wisconsin tops the list as America’s beer capital. The rankings, along with the states’ search interest scores, are as follows:

1. Wisconsin 98.53
2. Wyoming 86.54
3. Kansas 82.4
4. Nebraska 81.77
5. Iowa 76.37
6. New Hampshire 74.25
7. Pennsylvania 72.92
8. North Dakota 71.75
9. South Dakota 70.54
10. Missouri 67.79
11. Nevada 66.37
12. Illinois 66.12
13. Colorado 61.96
14. West Virginia 61.1
15. Michigan 60.45
16. Montana 58.46
17. Minnesota 57.5
18. Ohio 55.24
19. Maine 54.85
20. Indiana 51.31
21. Arizona 50.94
22. Oklahoma 49.93
23. South Carolina 49.42
24. Florida 49.26
25. Delaware 47.94

The list continues with other states, showcasing a diverse appreciation for beer throughout the country. The top ten most popular beers include:

1. Michelob Ultra
2. Bud Light
3. Stella Artois
4. Budweiser
5. Guinness
6. Coors Light
7. Busch Light
8. Miller Lite
9. Blue Moon Belgian White
10. Corona

Interestingly, the percentage of U.S. adults who consume alcohol has decreased to 54%, marking a record low according to Gallup. This decline also aligns with a growing awareness among Americans of the health implications associated with alcohol consumption, which correlates with a noticeable drop in beer sales reported by the Brewers Association.

Throughout history, beer has held a significant place in the fabric of American society. George Washington even ensured his troops received a quart of beer with their rations during the Revolutionary War. His legacy as a brewmaster is documented in his handwritten recipes, available for viewing at the New York Public Library.

As for present-day recommendations, the Beer Institute advocates "low and slow" consumption of alcoholic beverages, promoting moderation as a means to achieve responsible drinking and greater public health awareness.

For further insights on beer consumption patterns, the complete study can be accessed here.

According to a recent analysis by Innerbody, Michelob Ultra has emerged as the most popular beer in the United States, leading in Google search interest. The report also highlights other top contenders, including Bud Light, Stella Artois, Budweiser, and Guinness. Michelob Ultra is notably the most searched beer in Alabama, Nevada, and Oklahoma.

The analysis evaluated Google Trends data for 36 significant beer brands across all 50 states and Washington, D.C., over one year. It reflects search interest rather than actual sales. Despite its popularity, many individual states show strong preferences for local beers. For instance, Colorado favors Fat Tire, Massachusetts is inclined towards Samuel Adams, and Wisconsin enjoys Miller Lite.

Stella Artois stands out as the beer most loved across multiple states, being the top search in 12 states, including Florida and New York. It traces back to its roots in Belgium and is particularly popular in warmer regions.

Guinness, while different as a stout, ranks fifth and boasts a solid fan base on the East Coast, leading searches in states such as New Jersey and Maryland. Other local favorites highlighted in the report involve Hamm’s in Minnesota, Budweiser in Missouri, and Rainier Beer in Washington.

The full list of the most popular beers by state showcases various regional preferences alongside the national favorites. For those interested in the beer landscape across the U.S., this analysis offers a vibrant overview of how different brews resonate with various localities.

For detailed insights on each state’s most searched beer, you can find the full report from Innerbody here.

Samuel Adams is celebrating the return of Oktoberfest with a unique twist: the Front Yard Beer Hall, a life-size inflatable structure that allows beer lovers to recreate the festive atmosphere of Munich’s Oktoberfest right in their own yards. This innovative addition will be available starting September 1, for both direct purchase and through a sweepstakes where participants can win an oversized version of the hall.

The Front Yard Beer Hall is designed for social gatherings, perfect for home Oktoberfest parties, barbecues, and tailgates. It can be purchased for $199 at samueladams.com/beerhall while supplies last or entered to win the sweepstakes until September 15, 2026.

In addition to the inflatable hall, Samuel Adams is launching their iconic Octoberfest beer and debuting a new Non-Alcoholic Octoberfest along with an Apple Spice Ale. These brews will be featured in a limited Fall Legends Variety Pack that includes Octoberfest, Jack-O pumpkin ale, and Harvest Helles.

The Legendary Fall Line-Up:

• Octoberfest (5.3% ABV): A smooth Märzen with rich malt and caramel notes, a seasonal favorite.
• NON-Alcoholic Octoberfest: Offers the same flavor as the original with less than 0.5% alcohol.
• NEW Apple Spice Ale (5.0% ABV): Features apple and seasonal spices for a refreshing taste.
• Jack-O (4.4% ABV): A pumpkin ale with spices and a hint of citrus.
• Harvest Helles (5.4% ABV): A crisp lager with bright citrus notes.

The Fall Legends Variety Pack is available now in 12-packs ($15.99-$17.99) and 24-packs ($27.99-$29.99) at retailers nationwide.

To find these offerings, check out samueladams.com/find-a-sam for availability. For more details, visit SamuelAdams.com.

When the Petaluma River Craft Beer Festival returns to Water Street on Saturday, September 12, it will feature a record 24 breweries along with several newcomers and a partnership between two local Rotary clubs.

John Burns, a former festival co-chair and member of the Petaluma Valley Rotary Club, noted that this year’s event is unique—it’s the first time two Rotary clubs, the Petaluma Valley and the Petaluma Sunrise Rotary Club, have collaborated to host the festival. Co-chairs for this year are John Moller and Katherine Wells.

Scheduled from 1 to 5 p.m., the festival will take place along the riverfront in downtown Petaluma. Attendees can sample drinks from local breweries and enjoy live music and food from various local restaurants. The proceeds from the festival benefit local nonprofits focused on education, support for seniors, and those experiencing homelessness, with part of the funds allocated for the preservation of the Petaluma River and wetlands.

General admission provides a commemorative beer glass for sampling, allowing guests to interact with brewers and explore new beverages. Among the festival newcomers are notable breweries and beverage makers from around Northern California. Some long-established names will also be present, such as Anderson Valley Brewing and Gowan’s Cider from Mendocino County as well as Drakes Brewing and Ghost Town Brewing from the East Bay.

Local participation includes The Keg Stand Brewing Co., which is eager to connect with the community. Owner Jacob Gullett emphasizes the intimate, community-focused atmosphere that their brewery has. They plan to showcase several of their beers, which include a range of styles from cream ales to IPAs.

In addition to craft beers, Freedom Juice 1776 from Napa will debut its fermented agave beverage. This year marks another first with two hard cider producers represented; along with Gowan’s Cider, Petaluma’s Goat Rock Cider will also provide tastings.

Musical highlights include performances from The Schlick Ones, marking their first time headlining the festival, alongside Americana-rock band Over the Line and blues outfit Randy & The Special Agents.

For safety, a limited number of designated-driver tickets will be available, offering snacks and non-alcoholic beverages, alongside a purchasing certificate for food vendors. Attendance is restricted to those aged 21 and older.

Event Details:

• What: 12th Annual Petaluma River Craft Beer Festival
• When: 1 to 5 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 12
• Where: Downtown Petaluma riverfront, entrance by Water Street near the Balshaw Bridge
• Admission: $60 in advance; $65 on-site if available. Designated-driver tickets are $25.
• Tickets: petalumarivercraftbeerfest.org

As the Minnesota State Fair kicked off its 2026 edition, visitors were treated to a vast array of new alcoholic beverages, sparking discussions about the latest trends and flavors. Among the standout offerings was a ranch dressing-flavored beer, intriguingly named "Old Ranch Hand." Despite its unconventional flavor, tasters found it surprisingly palatable, even if the ranch salt on the rim drew mixed reactions.

The Fair’s sampling team tested 65 out of 75 new drinks on their second day, uncovering a blend of innovative concoctions and some less successful attempts. While many brewers leaned towards less sweet profiles, numerous products still fell into the overly sugary category characterized by artificial fruit flavors.

Here’s a snapshot of some memorable drinks sampled at the Fair, organized by their location:

Ball Park Cafe

• Homer Black Pepper IPA: A lack of black pepper flavor was disappointing, though it did offer a pleasant citrus bitterness.
• Rare Candy Pink Lemonade Sour: Sweet with a confusing flavor profile, tasting neither completely sour nor sweet.

Shanghai Henri’s (International Bazaar)

• Midway Sparkling Ale: A light beer lacking pronounced citrus notes but easy to drink.
• Key Lime Colada Slushie: A refreshing coconut-flavored drink, perfect for hot weather.

Aldo’s and Sabino’s

• Tropical Fruit West Coast IPA: A fruity yet balanced beer, well-received by tasters.
• Old Ranch Hand: Again mentioned, its ranch flavor garnered mixed reviews but wasn’t outright rejected.

The Blue Barn

• Hugo Spritz: Tasting like an elderflower cocktail, it received positive remarks for its authentic flavor.
• Espressotini Frozen Seltzer: This innovative drink was praised for its creamy coffee flavor and refreshing characteristics.

Various Locations

• Candyman Blue Raspberry Lager: This drink confused tasters with its overly sweet profile that left them unimpressed.
• Juicy Apricot Tangerine Hazy IPA: Highly rated for balance and flavor, noted as a fun drink for strolling around the Fair.

While attendees faced a mix of successes and disappointments in the beverage offerings, the overall atmosphere remained festive and exploratory. With many drinks leaning towards extreme flavors, there was something for everyone, proving that the creativity of brewers continues to escalate year after year at this beloved annual event.

For a deeper dive, check out:

• 2026 Minnesota State Fair food review
• More on the ranch beer

As the Minnesota State Fair progresses, a tasting group sampled a wide variety of the 75 new alcoholic beverages available this year, confirming that the ranch-dressing flavored beer, titled "Old Ranch Hand," wasn’t the worst of the bunch.

Day two of the Fair saw an impressive turnout, which caused some offerings to sell out quickly. The tasters managed to sample 65 different drinks, revealing a mix of flavors—many leaning towards the overly sweet and artificial.

Key Highlights from the Tasting

• Ball Park Cafe

  • Homer Black Pepper IPA: A missed opportunity for black pepper flavor, but overall pleasant with citrus notes (7% ABV).
  • Rare Candy Pink Lemonade Sour: A sour with sweet elements that confused some tasters (5% ABV).

• Shanghai Henri’s

  • Midway Sparkling Ale: Refreshing but lacking significant citrus flavor (4.9% ABV).
  • Key Lime Colada Slushie: Enjoyed by coconut lovers, it provided a refreshing taste (5.9% ABV).

• Livelihoods in the Coliseum

  • Tropical Fruit West Coast IPA: A well-balanced fruity IPA that garnered positive reviews (7% ABV).
  • Old Ranch Hand: Surprisingly better than expected, although some described it as tasting like “sour cream and onion potato chips.” This beer boasts a 5% ABV.

• The Blue Barn

  • Hugo Spritz: A hit, reminiscent of cocktails rather than a typical Fair drink (6.5% ABV).
  • Espressotini Frozen Seltzer: Very well received, likened to coffee ice cream (5% ABV).

• The Hangar

  • Lemon Agua Fresca Lager: Panned for tasting excessively sweet and reminiscent of floor cleaner (4.5% ABV).
  • Aurora Tropical Drift: Received mixed reviews due to its complicated profile (6.9% ABV).

Considering the spectrum of flavors available, the ranch beer stood out for its novelty, even if it wasn’t altogether enjoyable. With a plethora of drinks ranging from sours to slushies, this year’s beverage offerings captured almost every conceivable taste preference at the Fair.

For more insights on this year’s fair drinks, follow along for further reviews and updates.