Beer-articles 1011

Six years ago, I explored the intriguing world of beer blending, which involved combining two distinct beers to create a unique drinking experience. The inspiration struck at Schlafly’s Cabin Fever festival when I learned that one of their imperial pumpkin beers was crafted from a blend of Pumpkin Stout and Oatmeal Stout. This revelation sparked my imagination about what other combinations could elevate flavors, leading to my article titled The Art of Mixing Beers. Surprisingly, this piece gained consistent traction over the years, even as the featured beers faded from the market.

As I reflected on my previous experiments, the time felt right to merge my knowledge of beer blending with local beers from St. Louis and its surroundings. The core question was simple: Can two finished beers come together to yield an entirely new flavor profile?

One key lesson I learned was the importance of ratios. In my earlier attempts, a straight 50/50 blend seldom resulted in balance; generally, one beer would overpower the other. Therefore, I shifted my approach to consider factors such as ABV, bitterness, and flavor profiles in determining starting points for my blends.

Here are some suggested combinations to try at home:

1. Logboat Snapper IPA + Shortleaf Blood Orange Wheat
   DIY White IPA
   Suggested ratio: 1 part Snapper to 2 parts Blood Orange Wheat. The Snapper’s strength is moderated by the wheat beer, which highlights the citrus notes.

2. Side Project For Friends Golden Lager + Bluewood We All Scream For Oat Cream!
   DIY hoppy lager
   Suggested ratio: 3 parts lager to 1 part IPA. This straightforward blend allows the light lager to shine, enhanced by hoppy aromas.

3. 4 Hands Chocolate Milk Stout + Modern Disco Punch
   Chocolate-covered fruit
   Suggested ratio: 2 parts stout to 1 part sour. The maltiness of the stout balances the fruity tartness of the Disco Punch.

4. Schlafly Oktoberfest + Rockwell Now Streaming
   DIY hoppy amber
   Suggested ratio: 3 parts Oktoberfest to 1 part IPA. This combination maintains the lauded malty character of Oktoberfest while introducing hops.

5. O’Fallon Pumpkin Beer + Piney River Old Tom Porter
   Dark pumpkin pie
   Suggested ratio: 2 parts pumpkin to 1 part porter. The sweetness and spice of the pumpkin beer are complemented by the roasty notes of the porter.

6. Narrow Gauge Peanut Butter & Stout + 2nd Shift Enchanted Garden
   The WTF blend
   Suggested ratio: 3 parts Berliner Weisse to 1 part imperial stout. Tartness from the Berliner Weisse contrasts with the thick, rich stout.

7. Urban Chestnut Mercator + Alpha Believers Brew
   Chocolate Berry
   Suggested ratio: 2 parts Mercator to 1 part Believers Brew. A classic blend of fruity tartness and rich chocolate flavors.

8. Deep Sleep Train of Four + Third Wheel Gotta Have It
   DIY Cascadian dark ale/Black IPA
   Suggested ratio: 1:1. Balanced bitterness and robust flavors from both the stout and the IPA make this combination stand out.

9. Civil Life American Brown Ale + Brick River Cornerstone
   Candy apple
   Suggested ratio: 3 parts brown ale to 1 part cider. A sweet caramel apple flavor emerges from this delightful mix.

10. Big Muddy Blueberry Blonde + Iron Hops Soothsayer Weizenbock
    Blueberry bread
    Suggested ratio: 1:1. This pairing harmonizes blueberry notes with a wheat and clove background.

11. 4 Hands Incarnation IPA + Narrow Gauge Meersalz Double Raspberry
    Tart IPA
    Suggested ratio: 2 parts IPA to 1 part sour. A balance between fruity tartness and hoppy bitterness perfectly characterizes this blend.

12. Side Project Revived + 4 Hands Pineapple Fruit Whip
    Tropical dessert stout
    Suggested ratio: 3 parts Revived to 1 part Fruit Whip. For a decadent combination of coconut, pineapple, and vanilla flavors.

13. Perennial Southside Blonde + Heavy Riff Vanilla Coffee Underbrown
    Belgian mocha
    Suggested ratio: 2 parts Belgian blonde to 1 part brown ale. This mix brings a light, fruity character together with rich coffee notes.

Feel free to adjust these suggestions according to your own palate, embracing the fun and creativity that comes with mixing beers. After all, the joy of beer blending lies in experimentation and personal preference.

Blind Enthusiasm Brewing in Edmonton has made waves in the craft beer community by winning two prestigious awards at the 2026 World Beer Awards. While they are inspired by the lambic style, which originates from Belgium’s Zenne Valley and is protected by the EU, they do not claim to produce authentic lambic. Their unique process and modern facility, known as The Monolith, allow them to create spontaneously-fermented beers that have gained international recognition.

Doug Checknita, the head brewer, highlighted that the design of their brewery facilitates exposure to naturally-occurring microbes, which are used in the fermentation process. The beer is aged in barrels that house a variety of microbes, creating complex flavors through a cooperative fermentation process.

Blind Enthusiasm’s Grand Manifesto was named the World’s Best Gueuze. This beer is a blend of two, three, and four-year-old spontaneously-fermented beers. Checknita emphasized that this particular blend is among their finest work. The brewery has also been recognized for its Fruitful Pursuits: Cherry, which was awarded the title of World’s Best Kriek for the second consecutive year. Initially hesitant to create a kriek, Checknita changed his mind after tasting incredible cherries from British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, recognizing the potential for a truly exceptional beer.

Blind Enthusiasm’s beers are available for purchase in Canada and internationally, including markets in the United States, the Netherlands, and Japan. The brewery’s blend of historical methods and contemporary techniques has positioned them as a significant player in the craft beer scene, and they continue to attract attention from beer enthusiasts and industry experts alike.

Craft beer company Voodoo Ranger is initiating a creative promotion to celebrate the spooky season. They are launching a contest titled "Slasher Manhunt" where anyone legally named Michael Myers can win free beer for a year. This giveaway coincides with the release of their limited-edition Slasher IPA as part of the Halloween Hoppy Pack promoting the upcoming Halloween: The Game.

The contest runs until October 7, culminating in a special event in New York City called the "Party Without Fear." Here, participants named Michael Myers can present valid identification to claim their prizes, which include slashed bar tabs, game demos, and other giveaways. The lucky winner who secures a year’s worth of beer will be announced on October 19, coinciding with the iconic slasher’s fictional birthday.

Kiron Chakraborty, Voodoo Ranger’s Marketing Director, stated, "Being named Michael Myers has come with enough baggage, so we’re here with the beer," highlighting the brand’s humorous take on a name associated with horror. They aim to ensure that Halloween is celebrated with joy, backed by the tagline that there’s no better beer for the occasion than Voodoo Ranger.

Those interested can participate through Voodoo Ranger’s official site. Additionally, anyone of legal drinking age can purchase the Halloween Hoppy Pack while supplies last.

For further details, you can visit: Voodoo Ranger Contest and Hoppy Pack.

Today, September 28, is celebrated as National Drink Beer Day, a day dedicated to appreciating one of the oldest alcoholic beverages in the world. Beer, the third most consumed drink globally after water and tea, has a history of fermentation that goes back approximately 13,000 years to ancient Middle Eastern civilizations.

Celebrating this day is straightforward: simply grab your favorite beer—whether it’s a lager, ale, or stout—and relax.

Origins and History of National Drink Beer Day

The true origins of National Drink Beer Day are somewhat murky. Some believe the date is significant because it is close to the birth of Arthur Guinness, the founder of the iconic Irish brewery, who was born on September 24, 1725. However, this connection is tenuous at best.

Another theory links the day to the Oktoberfest, which has been celebrated in Munich since 1810 and attracts over six million visitors annually. Despite its proximity to Oktoberfest, there’s no solid evidence suggesting that National Drink Beer Day was established in connection with this famous festival, although many local bars might offer German-style beers in its honor.

Interestingly, another day dedicated to beer occurs in the U.S.—National Beer Day, which is celebrated on April 7. This date marks the enactment of the Cullen-Harrison Act, which allowed the sale of beer containing up to 3.2% alcohol, signaling the decline of Prohibition.

When Did National Drink Beer Day Begin?

As with its origins, the exact date when National Drink Beer Day started is unclear. Some sources claim it can be traced back to the early 1900s, but reliable documentation is lacking.

Regardless of when it began, the day has found its place on the national calendar, allowing beer enthusiasts to come together and celebrate. So, let’s raise a glass to National Drink Beer Day! Cheers!

Although lagers have dominated American beer sales for decades, the preferences of beer drinkers have evolved over time. As trends change, so do the brands that capture the hearts of each generation. For Generation X, those born between 1965 and 1980, the most popular beer as of 2026 is Blue Moon, according to a report from YouGov.

Blue Moon is an unfiltered Belgian-style wheat ale with an ABV of 5.4%. It is characterized by a sweet and citrusy profile that is lightly spiced, thanks to ingredients such as coriander and orange peel. The beer is famously garnished with an orange slice, a tradition established by its creator, Keith Villa.

Despite being marketed as a craft beer, Blue Moon is produced by MillerCoors, known for other popular beers like Miller Lite and High Life. Thus, it occupies a unique space in the market as a major brand that presents itself with a craft identity, garnering a loyal following without being an independent brewery or an imported brand.

The journey of Blue Moon began in 1995 at the Coors-backed Sandlot Brewery located at the Coors baseball field in Denver, Colorado. Its initial sales were limited to this venue, but word-of-mouth and favorable reception quickly pushed Coors to expand distribution to 22 states within a year, followed by broader marketing efforts.

Over the years, Blue Moon has grown to be widely available across the country, capturing the loyalty of Gen X drinkers, many of whom have strong connections to sports, particularly Major League Baseball (MLB). The beer is often enjoyed alongside traditional stadium fare and is well-promoted in contexts like golf, where it partners with professional players. Celebrity endorsements, including collaborations with Colin Jost from "SNL," have helped to maintain and strengthen its appeal among Gen X.

Blue Moon has also adapted to modern drinking trends, with the introduction of a non-alcoholic version and flavored varieties. This ability to innovate while maintaining its signature taste has helped solidify Blue Moon’s status as a go-to beer for Generation X into 2026.

For more insights, you can read the original article on Food Republic.

In an exploration of the cost of beer through the years, we realize that many may not be aware of the price fluctuations that have occurred since their birth. Thanks to historical data, we can take a nostalgic leap back in time to understand how much a six-pack of beer would have cost the year you were born—from Baby Boomers to Gen Z.

Starting in the 1950s, the average cost of a six-pack in 1950 was about $1.57, which equates to roughly $21.80 today when adjusted for inflation. This starkly contrasts the more budget-friendly prices of many mainstream six-packs today. By 1955, the price slightly increased to $1.61, maintaining a value that exceeds $20 in today’s market.

As we moved into the 1960s, the price was $1.70 by 1960—a year marked by political tensions, leading to the first televised presidential debate. The beer industry’s prices remained fairly stable throughout the decade, growing to approximately $1.76 by 1965.

The 1970s ushered in considerable changes. The price of a six-pack broke the $2 mark for the first time by 1971. Although consumers faced economic challenges during this stagflation period, beer remained a staple, with average prices reaching $2.55 in 1975.

By 1980, the average price for a six-pack was $3.40, amidst an increase in overall beer consumption. As the craft beer movement began taking off into the 1980s, prices climbed further, with a six-pack costing $4.29 by 1985.

In the following decades, beer prices continued to grow. In 1990, the cost was around $4.96—a price that many now reflect upon nostalgically as nearly a steal. The mid-90s saw a peak in craft beer popularity, raising the average price per six-pack to $5.78 by 1995.

As we approached the turn of the millennium, in 2000, a six-pack averaged $6.30. This price feels relatively low compared to today’s standards, as beer continues to rise in cost. By 2005, the average six-pack price finally landed at $7.09, aligning with the prices for younger drinkers born in that very year.

In summary, looking back through the lens of beer pricing over the decades reveals a fascinating tale of economic changes reflecting broader social shifts. Today, while prices may seem high, adjusted against historical contexts, some may find solace in noting that relative affordability remains higher than in previous decades.

Heineken has introduced a novel advancement in beer consumption with its "Personalised Draught" system, which utilizes AI to create unique beer combinations. This initiative, developed by Heineken Studio, allows patrons to experience up to 135 different beer expressions, combining ingredients from various kegs to form potentially bizarre concoctions.

Currently available at the Heineken Experience in Amsterdam and during select events like Formula 1 races, the Personalised Draught system enables customers to customize their taste profiles via a QR code scanned on their phones. Consumers are prompted to provide personal preferences, including favorite films, personality traits, and even the current weather, which the AI uses to generate a beer tailored to them.

Heineken’s marketing claims the technology is adept at creating new drinking experiences aimed at attracting those who may not typically identify as beer drinkers. Each pour also generates a personalized label, further enhancing the unique experience.

Despite its flair for innovation, many perceive this initiative as a marketing gimmick. Critics argue that integrating AI into the inherently human experience of drinking beer undermines the values of traditional beer enjoyment. The novelty raises questions about the future of personal preference in a world increasingly influenced by technology.

For more information, visit Heineken Studio and Drinks Business.

Singer-songwriter Madison Beer is making her way into the gaming world with the release of two limited-edition skins in Fortnite. Fans can expect these new cosmetics to drop on Thursday, September 24.

Madison, who has been a familiar face at Los Angeles Chargers games, has been teasing her arrival in the gaming universe, where one of the skins draws inspiration from a popular 2025 look. Notably, one skin gives off a Lara Croft/Tomb Raider vibe, while the other is a nod to her innovative ensemble from the 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, where she stunned in a pink corset and angel wings.

The fashion show took place at Steiner Studios in Brooklyn, featuring prominent athletes like WNBA star Angel Reese and Olympic champion Suni Lee. During the event, Beer not only walked the runway in a striking lingerie outfit but also performed her hit song “Bittersweet”. Prior to the show, she showcased a chic all-black ensemble on the red carpet, expressing her excitement about participating in the iconic event, which celebrates fashion, empowerment, and music.

An official trailer highlighting her Lara Croft-inspired skin has also been released, generating buzz ahead of her Fortnite launch. While Beer continues to support her boyfriend, Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert, throughout the NFL season, she is hopeful that her new gaming character will bring good fortune to players on their virtual adventures.

For more information, visit:

• Fortnite
• Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show

When you develop a love for craft beer, it’s natural to start asking questions about its intricacies. You might wonder about various styles like IPAs, the role of malt, the reasons behind beer color differences, and the flavor variations among beers. Visiting breweries often introduces you to sophisticated brewing equipment—large stainless steel tanks, fermentation vessels, and copious hops. However, the experience usually stops short of hands-on involvement.

In Hachioji, Tokyo, there exists a unique brewery called Shared Brewery that allows the general public to brew their own beer. While sorting through some old photographs, I stumbled upon images from my visit to the brewery, capturing the essence of the brewing process—from the equipment to the actual brewing moments. I want to revisit my experience of brewing craft beer there.

A Journey of Rediscovery

Initially, I struggled to recall the exact location, wavering between Hachioji, Fuchu, and Chofu. But as I examined the images closely, I pinpointed it to Shared Brewery in Naganumamachi, Hachioji, accessible via Hirayamajoshi-koen Station on the Keio Line. The concept of this brewery emerged back in 2017 when it was proposed as a space for beer enthusiasts who had no way to brew at home, highlightinging the importance of facilitating hands-on beer brewing experiences.

The Concept of Shared Brewing

The term "Shared Brewery" suggests a communal space for brewing. What sets it apart is that it caters not only to professional brewers but also to average beer lovers. The winery’s mission is to provide an accessible experience to people interested in the brewing process, which is quite rare in Japan due to licensing laws that restrict home brewing of alcoholic beverages. Thus, the concept was born: "If you can’t do it at home, let’s offer people a way to brew at a licensed brewery."

A Unique Brewing Space

The brewery’s interior is reminiscent of a bright workshop, contrasting with the extensive machinery seen in large-scale beer factories. Here, you feel the closeness of the equipment and the actual brewing process, an inviting atmosphere that makes the idea of participating in beer making far more tangible. The close proximity to brewing apparatus encourages a sense of involvement as you see hoses, pots, and measuring instruments firsthand.

The Tools of Craft

In one of my photographs, the logo of Ss Brewtech is visible—it’s a brand known for its quality brewing equipment. The brewery started by importing small-scale pots designed for homebrewing from the U.S., a significant factor considering each batch brewed is manageable for an individual beer lover.

The Brewing Journey Begins

The foundation of beer lies in malt—its starch is converted into sugar, which yeast then consumes, leading to alcohol production. In my photos, you can see a large steel container mixed with grains and liquid, establishing the initial raw state before it transforms into the beer we enjoy.

Brewing as Science

I was intrigued by a small white machine labeled ATAGO PAL-Wort, a digital refractometer used to measure the concentration of malt solution. Brewing isn’t just about following a recipe; it involves close monitoring akin to scientific experimentation. The process requires precision and adjustments based on measurements, blending culinary art with science.

Understanding pH Levels

Another image captures the measurement of pH levels—essential for adjusting acidity during brewing. Such measurements aren’t something typically considered by drinkers, but they play a crucial role in crafting the final product. This emphasizes the blend of sensory experience with scientific rationale in beer making.

The Complex Brewing Process

The brewing equipment is interconnected with numerous hoses for transferring liquids, cooling, and maintaining sanitary conditions. This intricate setup reveals the various industrial processes involved, underscoring that crafting beer is not merely about mixing ingredients—it’s about adhering to processes that ensure quality and safety.

The Responsibility of Fermentation

After brewing, the beer is stored in conical fermenters, where yeast takes over the role of transforming the wort into beer. Unlike cooking, this process requires patience, as you cannot rush fermentation; the yeast must do its work over time.

The Anticipation of Waiting

A distinctive aspect of brewing is that despite the hours spent preparing, the beer isn’t ready to drink immediately. This particular waiting period adds excitement, as it integrates the element of anticipation into the experience.

Changing Perspectives

When I looked back at the final photo of a clear pint of beer, the context shifted dramatically. This glass wasn’t just a drink—it was the culmination of a complex journey from grains to fermentation equipment. Understanding the steps and processes involved enriches appreciation for craft beer.

Beer Culture in Hachioji

The inception of Shared Brewery relates back to its founder, Daisuke Kobayashi, who encountered homebrewing culture abroad. With the legal restrictions in Japan, Kobayashi’s vision was to open a licensed brewery where individuals can enjoy the hands-on experience of brewing beer themselves. This initiative has potential implications for the overall craft beer culture, promoting not just consumption but also participation.

Continuous Evolution

Having opened in Hachioji in 2017, Shared Brewery has continued to thrive. Their focus on experiential brewing allows guests to create small batches of beer, reflecting their commitment to expanding how beer culture is perceived.

Cherishing the Moment

Reflecting on those old photographs, I’m grateful for the depth they capture—from the intricacies of brewing to the final glass of beer. They transform what could simply be a memory into a comprehensive story narrating the journey of craft beer creation.

Conclusion

Ultimately, craft beer is not just about enjoyment; it’s about understanding the effort involved in its creation. Having stepped into the brewing process, my perception forever shifted, making each subsequent glass a new and more nuanced experience.

As your trip to Taiwan comes to a close, there’s a moment to savor one last taste of the local culture before heading to Taoyuan Airport. You’ve checked out from your hotel, suitcase in tow, and the urge to indulge in a final glass of Taiwanese craft beer beckons. Instead of trekking to a distant brewery in Da’an or Xinyi, you can conveniently sip craft beer right at Taipei Main Station.

On the 4th floor of Q Square, adjacent to Taipei Main Station, lies SUNMAI (Le Blé d’Or), a prominent name in Taiwan’s craft beer scene since its inception in 2004. This location makes it an ideal spot for travelers looking to enjoy a local drink without straying far from their next destination.

An Overview of Le Blé d’Or

Le Blé d’Or is more than a beer hall; it traces its roots back to Taiwan’s liberalization of private alcohol production post-WTO accession. As one of the earliest private breweries, it has played a significant role in cultivating Taiwan’s burgeoning craft beer movement. Today, the brand stands proudly alongside many others, reflecting the thoughtful evolution of the local beer scene.

The Essence of Freshness

In 2004, the Taiwanese beer landscape was heavily dominated by mass-produced options. SUNMAI introduced a "freshly brewed, freshly drunk" philosophy, emphasizing the importance of consuming beer at its peak freshness. They engaged with local establishments from the start, paving the way for their restaurant concept that complements their brewing operations.

Notable Brews to Try

When visiting SUNMAI, you must consider the Honey Beer, which is crafted with Taiwanese longan honey. This beer shines brightly, having won a gold medal at the European Beer Star competition, marking it as a standout choice for both locals and visitors alike. Another excellent option is their Wheat Beer, awarded silver at the World Beer Cup, celebrated for its aroma and rich mouthfeel, showcasing SUNMAI’s balance of local ingredients and brewing technique.

Dining Experience

It’s worth noting that the Q Square branch behaves more like a restaurant than a typical craft brewery. With around 250 seats, it accommodates large groups comfortably, making it accessible even for those unfamiliar with Taiwanese craft beer. The menu, designed for shared experiences, combines a wide array of dishes with their distinctive brews.

Travel Convenience

What sets SUNMAI apart as a "pre-flight drink" destination is its proximity to the Taoyuan Airport MRT A1 Taipei Main Station. For some airlines, you can even check in and drop off your suitcase at this station, allowing you to explore the city worry-free before your flight. Enjoy a leisurely visit to SUNMAI, savor one last drink, and then make your way to the airport with just your carry-on.

A Thoughtful Approach to Timing

It’s essential, however, to manage your time wisely. While the MRT train is frequent, the various processes—walking to the station, waiting for the train, security checks—can take longer than anticipated. Rather than squeezing in one last drink right before departure, aim to enjoy your final moments in Taiwan with a relaxed mindset.

The Last and First Sip

This location isn’t just for last-minute visits. It also serves as a welcoming first stop for newcomers arriving at Taoyuan Airport. After a swift MRT ride to Taipei Main Station, visiting Q Square for that initial taste of Taiwanese craft beer sets the tone for an unforgettable trip.

Conclusion

As you reflect on your Taiwanese adventure, sipping a glass at SUNMAI embodies not just the flavors of the island but also a history of its craft beer development. Letting the last drop of Honey Lager or Wheat Beer mark your farewell creates a memorable end to your journey, ensuring that the experiences you had in Taiwan linger on even as you head back home.

Basic Information
Store Name: Le Blé d’Or Taipei Q Square Branch
Address: 4F, No. 1, Section 1, Chengde Rd, Datong District, Taipei City
Business Hours: Sun-Thu 11:00-23:00 / Fri-Sat 11:00-24:00
Last Order: Sun-Thu 22:00 / Fri-Sat 23:00
Access: North side of Taipei Main Station, inside Q Square.
You can visit the official site for updated information before planning your trip.