Beer-articles 913

When Josh Allen personally invited Jaxon Sweep to create the "biggest beer snake f***ing possible" during a University of Wyoming football game, a legendary moment was born. Although Sweep doesn’t drink beer, his passion as a lifelong Cowboys superfan drove him to accept the challenge enthusiastically.

The memorable event took place on November 22, shortly after the university retired Allen’s jersey at War Memorial Stadium during the game against Nevada. As Allen walked past the student section, he spotted Sweep and called out to him, prompting Sweep to rally the crowd to collect empty beer cups for the ambitious project.

The concept of a beer snake has emerged as a modern incarnation of the traditional human wave at sporting events, with fans collaborating to stack countless empty cups. With Allen’s encouragement, Sweep quickly became the leader in this endeavor, gathering support from fellow fans to construct a giant slithering tower of cups throughout the stadium.

Leading up to the event, Sweep and his brother Caden ensured they secured front-row seats for the game. Armed with clever signs, including a nod to a famous movie quote attributed to Allen, Sweep prepared to capture the quarterback’s attention. When the moment finally arrived, Allen acknowledged Sweep amid a crowd chanting "MVP," solidifying his status as ‘the beer snake guy.’

Despite being underage and not drinking, Sweep effectively rallied other fans to collect cups, shouting, "This is what Josh wants." The community effort paid off, resulting in a remarkable beer snake that reached the second level of War Memorial Stadium by the end of the game.

The moment quickly gained traction on social media, with footage of Sweep’s interaction with Allen spreading across various platforms. The following day, local and national outlets highlighted the event, even culminating in Sweep’s appearance on the popular "New Heights" podcast hosted by NFL stars Jason and Travis Kelce. The mention of his efforts and the proud endorsement of Wyoming added to the growing legend surrounding Sweep and his beer snake.

Sweep’s father observed the event from the stands, speaking proudly of his son’s dedication to the Cowboys and his deep familial ties to Wyoming’s football legacy. The incorporation of his own childhood enthusiasm for the sport and celebratory traditions around it played a role in shaping Sweep’s vibrant fandom.

As the firestorm of attention continued, the University of Wyoming recognized the impact of the beer snake moment as a valuable publicity tool, enhancing its appeal to prospective students seeking a lively college experience. This community-driven spectacle not only showcased school spirit but also contributed to an enthusiastic representation of what it means to be a Cowboy fan.

Now, with the beer snake’s fame etched into the lore of the university, Sweep has commemorated the experience with keepsakes, including a personalized illustration of that iconic moment, solidifying his role in this extraordinary tale of sports fandom.

Potter’s Pasties has recently opened its second location in St. Paul, specifically in the former coffee and doughnut area of the Beer Dabbler Depot liquor store on West Seventh Street. Known for its meat and vegetable hand pies as well as dessert pies, Potter’s Pasties has been a fixture in the Saintly City with its food truck and now offers a brick-and-mortar option available seven days a week.

This new location has expanded the menu to include half-sized pasties, gluten-free options, and vegan selections. Additionally, they now offer take-and-bake pasties, perfect for stocking up for those days when you may not be able to venture out.

Alec Duncan, the owner, emphasizes that the partnership with Beer Dabbler Depot will also facilitate themed tastings and dinners that celebrate UK food and drink traditions. This aligns with the origins of pasties, which are staple fare in the U.K. and were also popular among miners in Upper Michigan, serving as convenient, portable lunches.

In the spring, Potter’s Pasties intends to launch an ice cream program, reminiscent of offerings from its original Como Avenue location in Minneapolis. “We’re excited to expand into St. Paul and bring even more of our British-inspired comfort food to the community,” Duncan stated.

For more information, visit Potter’s Pasties or drop by the new location at 1545 W. Seventh St., St. Paul; 763-447-8338.

David Chang has carved out a unique spot in the culinary world, renowned not just for his innovative cuisine but also for his surprisingly conventional choice in beer. Despite the explosion of craft beer brands since the 1990s, Chang remains loyal to Bud Light, viewing it as his beverage of choice for its simplicity and nostalgic value. He has openly expressed his preference, citing fond memories associated with the drink, which he describes as the “only foodstuff” he consistently buys for his home.

In a 2014 article for GQ titled "My Name Is David Chang, and I Hate Fancy Beer," Chang made it clear that his preference for Bud Light isn’t solely based on taste; he finds many craft beers superior in flavor. However, what he values more is the experience and memories tied to drinking Bud Light, which has been a staple throughout his life. "There’s no beverage that I’ve drunk more of in my life than Bud Light… And there’s no drink I love more," he remarked.

Chang’s aversion to craft beers stems partly from his annoyance with the snobbish culture that often accompanies them. He argues that while beers like imperial stouts and barrel-aged saisons can be enjoyable, he doesn’t want complexity from his beer; he just wants something refreshing. This disdain mirrors sentiments shared by the late Anthony Bourdain, who also enjoyed craft beer but expressed disinterest in dissecting it.

For Chang, the attraction to Bud Light is deeply personal, intertwined with his life experiences rather than a pursuit of flavor. He embraces the truth that drinking should be enjoyable without unnecessary pretensions, distinguishing himself from the "beer snobs" he criticizes who complicate what should be a straightforward pleasure.

At Texas Roadhouse, enjoying a cold beer with dinner is a cherished experience for patrons, especially as many fast-food establishments have phased out alcohol options. Texas Roadhouse stands out by serving a selection of 14 beers globally, each adhering to a strict requirement of being served at 36 degrees Fahrenheit, deemed the perfect temperature for draft beer.

This commitment to cold beer is not merely a suggestion; it’s an integral part of the dining experience, much to the delight of its customers. While some may find their beers slightly below the ideal temperature, the thin layer of icy foam that forms is appreciated for enhancing the refreshing quality of the drink throughout the meal.

Temperature can significantly influence the taste and experience of beer. Most American light lagers are best enjoyed between 33 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit. However, specific beers, such as dark lagers and stouts, benefit from being served at warmer temperatures ranging from 45 to 55 degrees. This suggests that while Texas Roadhouse’s emphasis on colder beers may not suit every beer variety, it aligns perfectly with the preferences of many American beer drinkers, especially for their lighter offerings.

The restaurant ensures that customers can consistently enjoy their beer cold and refreshing, making it a staple of their dining experience.

Bill Wolcott from the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle reports that fans of the Buffalo Bills will have the chance to enjoy a unique beer crafted from snow collected at Highmark Stadium. This limited-edition “Blizzard Brew” is a collaboration between Bud Light and the Bills, recognizing the dedication of fans who tirelessly shovel the stadium over the years.

The specially brewed beer will be available at the stadium and in local retailers for the Bills’ final home game of the regular season against the New York Jets on January 4, 2026. Bud Light collected snow after the first snowfall of the season and transported it to the Anheuser-Busch brewery in Baldwinsville, where it was integrated into the brewing process.

Hall of Fame wide receiver Andre Reed will be on hand at the final game to celebrate alongside Bills fans. Todd Allen, Bud Light’s Senior Vice President of Marketing, expressed the strong connection between the passionate Bills fans and their unwavering support for the team, highlighting how Blizzard Brew reflects that commitment.

For a last taste of the infamous Bills Mafia spirit, fans can grab their Blizzard Brew during Week 18 of the NFL season, marking a fitting tribute to an iconic fan base.

Justin Herbert and Madison Beer have been dating for less than six months, but they have already sparked significant interest among fans and online sleuths. Beer has been frequently seen supporting Herbert at Chargers games and attending various events together, indicating that she is fully embracing the role of a WAG (wife and girlfriend of an athlete). The enthusiasm surrounding their relationship has led many to speculate that she might already be considering wedding gowns and engagement rings.

In a recent appearance on the podcast Call Her Daddy, Madison expressed her happiness in the relationship, stating that Herbert makes her feel safe and supports her in overcoming past trauma. This indicates that their romance is deepening, despite its relatively short duration. They first attracted media attention in August 2025, and their romance became more apparent when they were spotted kissing on the sidelines in October.

While Madison has shied away from public discussions about wedding plans, some fans believe they may have found a Pinterest board attributed to her that features wedding dresses. However, it remains unclear if the board actually belongs to her, as the account’s name does not directly connect back to her. Meanwhile, Madison’s mother, Tracie, has been actively engaging with comments suggesting she’s entering her "mother-in-law" phase, which fans interpret as approval of Madison’s relationship with Herbert.

Although the couple is still relatively new, there are signs that both Madison and her family are hoping for an even more serious commitment in the future.

EMMETT TWP, MI — A rural Michigan market is making waves with a unique approach to ensuring that residents don’t run out of beer on Christmas. Trombley’s Country Market, located in Emmett Township, has released an original music video titled “Sellin’ Beer on Christmas,” featuring a lighthearted country tune performed by Ethan Trombley, one of the family members affiliated with the store.

Opened by Trombley’s grandparents in 1974 as a small produce stand, the family-owned business has expanded over the years to include a variety of food items such as handmade pizza and sandwiches. The store maintains its spirit of community service, opening for a few hours on Christmas Day to cater to local needs while humorously emphasizing its beer sales.

Ethan Trombley, who also manages the market, recorded the music video over three days in November. In it, he dons an elf costume while family members and friends join in, underscoring the market’s community roots. “It was a fun process that represents our personality and mission,” Trombley remarked, highlighting the welcoming atmosphere that characterizes the market.

The family aims to foster connections within the community, reflecting the store’s growth from a roadside stand to a local hub over the past 51 years. Despite facing loss with the passing of Ethan’s father, James, in 2019, he is committed to continuing the family legacy while utilizing modern promotion methods like a YouTube channel named Small Town Market.

“Sellin’ Beer on Christmas,” released on December 6, follows a previous music video Trombley created for another original song titled “Ain’t Nothin Like The USA.”

As part of its holiday offerings, Trombley’s Country Market will be open from noon to 3 p.m. on December 25, complying with state laws that prohibit alcohol sales during the early hours of the holiday.

Sonoma County, known primarily for its wines, is also home to a vibrant craft beer and cider scene. This guide explores noteworthy breweries and cideries that beer and cider enthusiasts should not miss on their next trip to the region.

Notable Breweries

Sonoma County boasts a surprising number of unique breweries for its size. Starting with Russian River Brewing in Windsor, this brewery is celebrated nationwide for its iconic beer, Pliny the Elder. Santa Rosa hosts multiple breweries, including Cooperage, Fogbelt, and HenHouse, alongside the original Russian River brewpub.

In Rohnert Park, you can find Old Caz and Parliament, while The Barlow in Sebastopol showcases breweries such as Crooked Goat and Seismic Brewing. Moving up north to Petaluma, Lagunitas is a well-known name and offers various locations to explore, including the Palace of Barrels. Other breweries can be found as far north as Cloverdale’s Wolf House and in Guerneville with Stumptown.

Cidermakers: From Orchard to Glass

Sonoma County has a rich apple history dating back to when early settlers first introduced the fruit. Although many orchards have transformed into vineyards, over 2,000 acres of heirloom apple varieties still flourish, preserving the county’s cider-making legacy.

Ace Cider, founded in 1993, is recognized as the oldest cidery and is popular for its sweet options and seasonal varieties. Tilted Shed Ciderworks, based in Windsor, creates a diverse range of ciders from over 120 heirloom apple varieties, both from their orchards and local sources.

At Golden State Cider, located at The Barlow, visitors can sample seasonal ciders. Additional cideries in the Sebastopol area include Dutton Estate, Ethic Ciders, Eye Cider, and Horse & Plow. There are also a few cideries throughout the county, such as Goat Rock Cider in Petaluma and Preston Farm in Healdsburg.

Insights from Local Breweries

Interviews with the owners of prominent breweries like Russian River Brewing and Old Caz Brewing provide insight into the unique experience of brewing beer in Sonoma County. For instance, Natalie Cilurzo from Russian River emphasizes the strong sense of community, not just in brewing but also in the regional maker culture encompassing wine, chocolate, and produce.

Tom Edwards of Old Caz highlights the importance of local tourism fostered by the nearby wineries, benefiting their brewery despite being in a wine-centric region. Both owners express deep gratitude for the support from local patrons, showcasing the collaborative spirit of Sonoma’s craft beverage scene.

Whether you’re a connoisseur or just beginning your exploration of beer and cider, Sonoma County offers a rich variety of flavors waiting to be discovered.

A splash of beer in your cooking can transform a variety of dishes, adding layers of flavor and a lighter texture. From steak and omelets to bread and cookies, there’s no shortage of culinary options. The key to successfully cooking with beer, according to Karen Malzone, co-owner of Odd Bird Brewing in New Jersey, is to move beyond traditional recipes and embrace creativity. Cooking should be an enjoyable and communal activity, allowing us to express our culinary artistry to others.

To inspire your own beer-infused cooking adventures, look for inspiration everywhere—from farmer’s markets to restaurant menus. Engaging with friends or chefs who utilize beer in their cooking can spark new ideas. Additionally, resources like ‘The American Craft Beer Cookbook’ by John Holl provide fantastic insights and recipes.

If you’re excited to experiment, consider starting with some popular beer-infused recipes. You might find that incorporating beer into your dishes can reignite your passion for cooking and sharing meals with those you care about.

Hazy IPAs dominated the craft beer scene in 2025, despite headlines claiming the decline of the craft beer industry. Many breweries are still thriving, and young drinkers are actively enjoying these beverages. The hazy IPA, often a favorite among craft beer enthusiasts, continues to lead both sales and competitions.

At the prestigious World Beer Cup, "Shifted Visions" from Everywhere Brewery in Orange, California, triumphed in the hazy IPA category, competing against 290 entries. This IPA features a blend of pilsner malt and hops, including Nectaron, Motueka, Simcoe, and Citra, solidifying its elite status.

The Great American Beer Festival saw "TourBus Double Dry Hopped Hazy IPA" from Destihl Brewery take the top prize, showcasing a 7.4% ABV with Citra and Mosaic hops. This beer is part of a Grateful Dead-inspired series and has been successful in previous competitions, reflecting its consistent quality.

In the U.S. Open Beer Championship, "Planet Pulp" from Triple C Brewing Co. in North Carolina won gold in the hazy category. Known for its juicy flavors reminiscent of pineapple and peach, this beer is brewed with Mosaic, Citra, and El Dorado hops.

Across the Atlantic, "Turtle Town" from Hodad’s Brewing Co. in San Diego earned a gold medal in the hazy IPA category at the European Beer Star. This beer has low bitterness and a juice-forward flavor, establishing a strong reputation with multiple awards.

These winners illustrate that, contrary to negative narratives, the craft beer scene, especially for hazy IPAs, is thriving and full of competitive spirit.