Beer-articles 981

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India Pale Ale (IPA), a staple of American craft beer culture, has seen a tremendous rise in global popularity. The 2026 World Beer Awards highlighted this with an exciting twist; none of the top rankings in the IPA categories went to American breweries. Instead, breweries from Brazil, Japan, Germany, Canada, and China took home honors, showcasing the expansion of IPA’s reach beyond U.S. borders.

The World Beer Awards, which has been held annually since 2007, assesses commercially available beers through blind tastings. This global competition provides a platform for brewing talent from around the world to flourish, often highlighting beers that may not receive attention in American-centric contests like the Great American Beer Festival.

Here is a rundown of the seven exceptional IPAs that earned the title of World’s Best in their respective categories:

World’s Best Milkshake IPA/New England IPA

Landel Atrás do Bloco – Brazil
This 7.5% ABV hazy IPA not only secured the top award but also boasts a rich, tropical flavor thanks to a double dry-hopping with Mosaic, Cascade, and Citra hops. Atrás do Bloco has garnered multiple accolades within Brazilian beer circles, including a gold at the 2026 Concurso Brasileiro de Cerveja.

World’s Best American Style IPA

Derailleur Brew Works WC IPA – Japan
Originating from Osaka, this 7% ABV IPA channels classic West Coast vibes. It features an aromatic blend of tropical and citrus notes, culminating in a clean and bitter finish characteristic of American IPAs.

World’s Best Black IPA

Camba Black Shark – Germany
With an 8.5% ABV and 100 IBUs, Black Shark delivers a complex profile that combines the expected hop flavors of an IPA with roasted malt notes reminiscent of a stout, including hints of coffee and dark chocolate.

World’s Best English Style IPA

Therezópolis Jade – Brazil
This 6.5% ABV IPA marries floral and citrus aromas characteristic of traditional English IPAs while offering a uniquely Brazilian flair. Jade had previously won a World Beer Awards Gold in 2025.

World’s Best Imperial/Double IPA

Archibald Double IPA – Canada
Coming from Quebec, this 8.5% ABV brew is heavy on Amarillo, Simcoe, and El Dorado hops, exuding citrus, nectarine, and pineapple flavors while maintaining a robust bitterness.

World’s Best Session IPA

RichKat Craft Brewing Rebound – China
From Hong Kong, Rebound takes the Session IPA title. It is a lighter alternative to its previous Double IPA iteration, preserving the hop intensity while reducing the ABV for a more refreshing experience.

World’s Best Specialty IPA

Cervejaria Unika Orange Kush – Brazil
This innovative beer won in the eclectic Specialty IPA category, showcasing Brazil’s knack for creative brewing. Orange Kush is part of a vibrant scene that saw Brazilian breweries achieve three out of the seven World’s Best IPA titles this year.

The World Beer Awards exemplify the global evolution of the IPA, reminding beer enthusiasts that flavors and styles can vary widely, offering many new experiences. For those seeking to try these exceptional beers, considering a visit to these breweries could lead to delightful discoveries in the world of craft beer.

If you’ve recently been told by your doctor that your cholesterol levels are high, you might be wondering what factors contributed to that increase. While dietary changes such as reducing saturated fats and incorporating healthier options like salmon and nuts can help, surprising research indicates that moderate beer consumption could have an effect on cholesterol levels as well.

A study published in 2020 suggests that moderate drinking may actually raise HDL (the "good" cholesterol) levels. This process occurs because alcohol can reduce the activity of a protein responsible for transferring HDL to LDL (the "bad" cholesterol) in the body. However, it’s important to note that moderation is key. Drinking excessively can lead to increased triglyceride levels, which can, in turn, negatively impact overall cholesterol levels.

The CDC defines moderate drinking as up to two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women. Depending on the type of beer, this can be tricky, as alcohol content varies from 3.2% to over 9%, especially in craft beers. Consuming more than what is considered moderate can lead to an increased risk of health complications.

While moderate beer consumption may seem beneficial for HDL cholesterol, prolonged drinking can diminish its effects. Research from 2022 indicated that moderate drinkers over a ten-year span showed lower HDL levels compared to non-drinkers, alongside increased triglyceride levels.

It’s crucial to remember that cholesterol is just one component of your overall health. Although moderate beer drinking may offer some benefits, excessive consumption is linked to inflammation and a higher risk of chronic diseases, including high blood pressure and certain cancers. Studies also reveal that while a daily beer may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, overindulgence can increase it.

Moreover, the perception of moderate drinking as a healthy practice is under review, suggesting that abstaining from alcohol might actually be the healthiest choice. If you decide to drink, keep in mind that moderation isn’t about saving all your drinks for one day. Binge drinking, as defined by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, is consuming five or more drinks in two hours for men and four or more for women, and should be avoided.

In summary, while moderate beer consumption could potentially have a positive effect on cholesterol, excessive drinking leads to negative health impacts. It’s wise to balance any alcohol intake with overall lifestyle choices that promote better health.

Justin Herbert has expressed his profound admiration for fiancée Madison Beer, stating she has significantly impacted his life. The couple’s engagement was announced on July 28, 2026, through a heartfelt joint Instagram post in which Beer referred to Herbert as her fiancé.

The relationship began in August 2025 when they ignited dating speculation after being spotted together. Their romance blossomed publicly, as seen through numerous outings, including attending sports events and making appearances in each other’s projects.

A timeline of their relationship highlights key moments:

• August 2025: They were first photographed together at one of Beer’s music video shoots, sparking initial rumors of their relationship.

• September 2025: Photos surfaced of them holding hands during an outing in Los Angeles, solidifying their status as a couple.

• October 2025: The duo shared a kiss on the sidelines before a Chargers game, followed by public appearances, including a Lakers game where they were spotted together.

• November 2025: Beer showcased her support for Herbert by attending a Chargers game with her mother.

• December 2025: Beer spoke positively about Herbert on the Call Her Daddy podcast, crediting him for providing immense support during her mental health journey.

• January 2026: They stepped out publicly at the pre-Grammy Gala, attending as a couple.

• March 2026: Celebrating each other’s birthdays with loving tributes on social media, Herbert called Beer his "favorite person."

• May 2026: Trivia as Herbert made a surprise appearance in Beer’s music video for "lovergirl."

• July 2026: Herbert expressed admiration for Beer on Instagram, leading to their engagement announcement shortly after.

In the days following their engagement, Herbert shared on SiriusXM NFL Radio the transformative effect Beer has had on his life, saying, “She’s changed my life, and it’s something I never thought was possible.” He emphasized the joy and trust in having someone with whom he can share everything.

With plans for a future together, both Herbert and Beer appear excited about what lies ahead as they prepare for marriage.

There are many misconceptions surrounding beer that have persisted over time. Understanding these myths can enhance your appreciation of beer, making you a better drinker. Here are four prevalent beer myths that need to be debunked.

Beer Can’t Get Warm and Then Cold Again

A common belief is that once beer gets warm, it should not be cooled again. This is a misunderstanding. While extreme fluctuations in temperature—like boiling or freezing—can affect the flavor negatively, transitioning from cold to room temperature and back again does not ruin the beer. In fact, many beers undergo temperature changes during their transport from the brewery to the store. Ideally, keep beer cold to preserve flavor, but don’t worry if it warms up slightly.

Beer Was Drunk in Old Times Because Water Was Unsafe

While it’s true that beer may have been a safer alternative to questionable water sources, fresh water was typically available, even in historical cities. For example, London had access to clean water due to its early aqueduct system established in 1245. The popularity of beer arose not just from safety concerns but because it was a nourishing, caloric drink enjoyed by many, similar to the way people relish a pint today.

Ales Are Top Fermented and Lagers Are Bottom Fermented

This basic classification of ales and lagers is somewhat oversimplified. Although ale yeast tends to rise more quickly in the fermenter, lager yeast moves around as well, albeit more slowly due to the cooler fermentation temperatures. In both fermentation processes, yeast can be found throughout the vessel, and it settles at the bottom once fermentation is complete.

Women Brewers in the Middle Ages Were Connected to Witchcraft

The stereotype connecting women brewers, known as “brewsters,” to witchcraft is primarily a myth. Historical records indicate that witch hunts gained momentum well after the Middle Ages. Moreover, depictions of witches in pointy hats and cauldrons come from 18th-century art, not actual history. During witch trials, alleged witches were often portrayed as ordinary individuals, blending in rather than standing out as "witches."

Enjoy beer with friends and family, armed with the knowledge that debunks these myths!

After a day filled with beach outings, park jogs, or tackling garden chores, many people turn to refreshing “lawnmower beers,” those light and sessionable brews marketed for summertime enjoyment. However, there are better options that not only refresh but also tantalize the taste buds: wheat beers.

Historically, wheat has been a key ingredient in brewing, with its use dating back over 8,000 years to the Sumerians and Egyptians. Though barley is generally preferred for brewing due to its starch conversion capabilities, wheat remains popular and yields unique and delicious flavors. Wheat beers, which gained traction in Europe around the 12th century—chiefly in southern Germany, the Czech Republic, and Belgium—are characterized by their smooth, creamy, and malty profiles.

These refreshing beers typically come with generous foam heads and lower bitterness, allowing the flavors to shine. The yeast used can impart flavors such as banana and clove, while breweries often enhance them with additional flavors like orange peel and coriander.

Types of Wheat Beer

Wheat beers are diverse, with brewers today creating both traditional European styles and innovative new varieties. Below are a few standout types:

• Hefeweizen (Weissbier): Perhaps the most well-known wheat beer, hefeweizen features yeast that isn’t filtered out of the beer, leading to a traditional hazy appearance. This style has notes of banana and clove, making it smooth and enjoyable on a hot day.

• Kristallweizen: This is a filtered version of hefeweizen that appears clear, retaining a similarly light and refreshing character.

• Dunkelweizen: A darker variant of hefeweizen, dunkelweizen incorporates richer flavors but still shares the underlying smoothness.

• Weizenbock: A bock beer brewed with wheat, combining the robust flavors typical of bocks with the softness of wheat malt.

• Witbier: Originating from the Flanders region of Belgium, this style is unfiltered, often featuring coriander and orange peel for a distinctly refreshing taste. The revival of witbier in the 1960s led to innovations and popular versions like Blue Moon and Allagash White.

• Berliner Weisse: A lightly sour, low-alcohol beer made with wheat, often enjoyed with flavored syrups for added sweetness.

• Gose: This low-alcohol, sour beer is brewed with wheat and often salted, creating a unique flavor profile that stands out among summer options.

Embracing the variety of wheat beers offers a delectable alternative to the typical “lawnmower beer,” making them a perfect companion for warm-weather relaxation and enjoyment.

A comprehensive study involving over 340,000 adults in Britain has revealed that the type of alcoholic beverage consumed can significantly impact health outcomes, especially concerning longevity and heart health. Conducted by the American College of Cardiology, the research highlighted a clear distinction between the effects of wine and other types of alcohol—specifically beer, cider, and spirits—on mortality risk.

The decade-long research tracked participants from the UK Biobank, analyzing data from 2006 to 2022. Heavy drinking was consistently linked to increased mortality regardless of the drink type. However, lower consumption levels presented a more complex picture. While beer, cider, and spirits were associated with higher mortality, moderate wine consumption was linked to a 21% reduction in the risk of cardiovascular death compared to non-drinkers or occasional drinkers.

Moderate drinking was categorized as follows:

• Low consumption: Men (20 g/week to 20 g/day), Women (20 g/week to 10 g/day)
• Moderate consumption: Men (20 g to 40 g/day), Women (10 g to 20 g/day)
• Heavy consumption: Men (over 40 g/day), Women (over 20 g/day)

The study found that those who drank heavily had a 24% greater likelihood of dying from any cause, a 36% higher risk of dying from cancer, and a 14% increased risk of heart disease compared to non-drinkers. In contrast, moderate wine drinkers exhibited lower cardiovascular risks while low levels of spirits, beer, or cider consumption were associated with heightened cardiovascular death risks.

Researchers attributed the different health impacts of wine to its unique composition, particularly polyphenols and antioxidants that can promote heart health. Additionally, drinking habits appeared to vary; wine is often consumed with meals, aligning with healthier lifestyle choices, whereas spirits and beer are typically enjoyed outside meals and correlate with poorer dietary habits.

Despite the significance of the findings, the researchers acknowledged some limitations. The study was observational, and thus cannot definitively establish causality. It also relied on self-reported data regarding alcohol intake, which might not reflect changes over time. Considering these factors, the study offers valuable insights into the relationship between the type of alcohol consumed and associated health risks, suggesting a need for updated public health guidelines.

For more detailed health-related topics, explore:

• Heart Disease
• Nutrition

Do you know where most of the world gets the hops needed to produce beer? It’s the Yakima Valley, renowned for growing 75% of hops in the U.S. With both the U.S. and Germany competing for the title of top hop producer, local celebrations for International Beer Day on Friday, August 7, can be enjoyed right in the Tri-Cities area.

Celebratory Events for Beer Day

Moxee Hop Festival
Taking place from Thursday, August 6 to Saturday, August 8 at Moxee City Park, the Moxee Hop Festival combines fun activities for all ages. The festival, which started in 1948, includes games, a dunk tank, and a parade on Saturday morning. For those who enjoy competition, Friday features an apple pie baking contest, while Saturday hosts a 5K Fun Run/Walk. Attendees aged 21 and older can explore the Budweiser Beer Garden, featuring musical acts and more. The festival hours are 5-10 p.m. on August 6, 4 p.m.-midnight on Friday, and 7 a.m.-midnight on Sunday.

Brewery Events in the Tri-Cities

Sage Brewing Co.
Located at 8425 Chapel Hill Blvd., Pasco, Sage Brewing will celebrate by serving craft beers along with La Bahía Mexican food from 4-8 p.m. on Friday. Saturday includes a collaboration with Smokin’ Boar Sausages for a delicious pairing of sausages and cold beer from 1-8 p.m., followed by a daylong Happy Hour on Sunday.

Moonshot Brewing
Found at 8804 W. Victoria Ave., Kennewick, Moonshot Brewing is set to host a pinball tournament on Saturday, August 8, to celebrate the launch of a new Transformers pinball machine. The food truck for the night is Gray’s Wings and Things, and both the tournament and food will commence at 5 p.m. Fridays and Sundays are designated as bring-your-own-food days.

Last Call
Opening its doors on Saturday, August 8, this new establishment at 213 W. Kennewick Ave. promises a lively night with live music from Badlandz.

Bombing Range Brewing Company
Located at 2000 Logston Blvd., Richland, this brewery invites patrons to enjoy live music from their local Beer Choir chapter on Saturday evening. With pints offered at $5, it’s a great spot to wind down.

Whether you’re interested in family-friendly activities at the Moxee Hop Festival or brewery experiences around the Tri-Cities, there are plenty of ways to join in the festivities for International Beer Day.

Something is changing in the beverage industry. Recent reports show a decline in sales of traditional alcoholic drinks: beer and cider sales fell over 3%, while wine dropped more than 6%. In contrast, non-alcoholic beer, wine, and spirits experienced a significant upswing of nearly 19%, now surpassing one billion dollars in sales. This shift has given rise to a new category of functional beverages that promise more than just refreshment. Notably, beer is now available in a "functional" variety. The concept is appealing: enjoy a cold drink without the effects of alcohol, combined with ingredients that may reduce stress or enhance focus.

What Is Functional Beer?

The range of functional beers varies widely. At the simpler end are non-alcoholic and low-ABV beers, which have improved considerably over the past decade, along with hop water that mimics the beer taste without any alcohol. On the more complex side, these beverages include beneficial ingredients, such as:

• Adaptogens like ashwagandha and reishi to help manage stress.
• Nootropics like L-theanine and caffeine for improved focus.
• Botanicals, electrolytes, and even probiotics.

Brands such as De Soi, Kin, and TRIP have popularized the idea of enjoying a buzz without the booze, and similar beer-style products are gaining traction.

The Effectiveness of Claims

While the claims about functional ingredients range from factual to exaggerated, some ingredients show promise. For instance, the combination of L-theanine and caffeine has been shown to promote calm focus without causing jitters. Similarly, ashwagandha has evidence supporting its ability to modestly lower cortisol levels. Moreover, reductions in sugar content and the addition of electrolytes are genuine benefits.

However, caution is warranted. The actual doses of these functional ingredients in beverages can often be insufficient to deliver the advertised effects. The benefits of adaptogens can be subtle and vary significantly among individuals, and some marketing promises may exceed the supporting evidence. Additionally, there is the risk of a "functional halo" effect, where consumers might justify consuming more sugary drinks on the belief that they are "healthy."

The Real Benefit

The significant health benefit of these functional beers is not necessarily the added ingredients, but rather the reduction in alcohol consumption. Alcohol is one of the most harmful substances that people frequently consume, and any product that encourages drinking less is a positive development. Finding a functional beer that tastes good enough to replace traditional beer can support healthier drinking habits. While the additional ingredients may provide secondary benefits, the key advantage lies in the absence of alcohol.

Enjoy these beverages for what they are without undue expectations. While they may not offer significant health improvements, the healthiest ingredient in many of these drinks is simply the alcohol no longer present. Maintain the familiar rituals of social drinking, avoid hangovers, and approach the wellness claims with a healthy dose of skepticism.

For those considering these functional beverages, it’s important to note that ingredients like adaptogens and nootropics can interact with medications, so it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional if you have health conditions or are taking medications.

Utz Quality Foods, maker of Utz® Cheese Balls, was a key sponsor of Beer Bowl 2026, a charity event held in Sea Isle City, New Jersey, aimed at benefiting the Eagles Autism Foundation. Co-hosted by Jason and Kylie Kelce, the event took place on June 25, 2026, and featured unique fan experiences, celebrity appearances, and challenges to raise funds for autism research and care.

One of the highlights was the Utz x Garage Beer "Million Cheese Ball Challenge™," which included a massive pool containing over one million cheese balls, where participants dove in to find branded ping pong balls. This fun and engaging challenge quickly became one of the most memorable moments of the Beer Bowl.

The event also included a dedicated Utz-branded bar at the Team 62 event on June 24, where attendees enjoyed Utz snacks, including pretzel necklaces, and participated in a live auction with exclusive items. Together, these activities raised an impressive $1.26 million for the Eagles Autism Foundation, surpassing the previous year’s record of $1 million.

Liza Darnell, Vice President of Marketing Communications at Utz, expressed that the event combined the joy of Utz Cheese Balls and Garage Beer with a serious commitment to supporting a worthy cause.

For more updates and content from the event, you can follow Utz on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

The Eagles Autism Foundation remains dedicated to funding research and programs that provide vital resources to help those impacted by autism, having raised over $50 million in its eight years of operation.

Madison Beer and Justin Herbert have officially announced their engagement, a heartfelt moment celebrated via a joint Instagram post on July 28, 2026. The couple, who have shared nearly a year together, revealed the engagement details through a series of photographs and videos captured during an elaborate outdoor proposal adorned with flowers.

Herbert proposed beneath a beautifully decorated arbor, captured in a photo where he is on one knee with an open ring box, while Beer, delighted and surprised, crouches before him. The intimate moment showcased Beer’s stunning white cardigan and lace skirt by With Jéan, complemented by Herbert’s simple yet stylish white long-sleeved shirt and black trousers. The couple has yet to announce any specifics regarding wedding plans.

In a sweet touch, Beer’s mother, Tracie Beer, joined in the celebration by sharing a FaceTime screenshot from the moment her daughter and Herbert revealed their engagement. She expressed heartfelt sentiments about her daughter’s happiness and her confidence in Herbert being a loving partner.

Their romance first entered the public eye in August 2025, beginning with Herbert being spotted at one of Beer’s photo shoots. The couple made headlines when Beer was seen at a Chargers game, further solidifying their relationship in the eyes of fans. This public affection was continued with music video appearances, including Beer’s "lovergirl" where they shared romantic moments.

In reflections on their relationship, Beer shared that Herbert entered her life "at the perfect time," and noted how mature their connection felt. Their bond deepened over time, with both publicly expressing their love for one another during each other’s birthdays.

Experts have commented on Beer’s engagement ring, suggesting it potentially features a diamond worth between $500,000 to $1 million, highlighting its grandeur with estimates of a center stone ranging from five to ten carats.

This celebratory moment marks a significant milestone for Beer and Herbert as they embark on this exciting new chapter together.