Beer-articles 683

A unique collection of hand-blown glasses from Pretentious Glass features designs aimed at enhancing the beers brewed at Pretentious Beer.

Matthew Cummings is a creative force. He established Pretentious Glass Co. in 2012 in downtown Knoxville, Tennessee, holding both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s of fine arts in glass sculpture.

In the same year, he embarked on his journey into homebrewing. “I was a broke artist,” Cummings shared during a phone conversation. “But I was a big beer fan and I wanted Zombie Dust at High Life prices.” Zombie Dust, a pale ale from Indiana’s 3 Floyds Brewing, was one of the key beers that sparked Cummings’ passion for craft beverages.

As a devoted reader, Cummings immersed himself in the literature on brewing beer, refined his beermaking abilities, and in 2016, he launched a beer bar adjacent to Pretentious Glass, which began producing its own beer a year later, operating under the name Pretentious Beer Co.

“We are truly unique in the world as a destination where guests can enjoy beer crafted on-site, served in glasses created right here, all while witnessing the entire production process,” shares Cummings.

Cummings notes that while much of the existing research focuses on how the shape of a wine glass influences flavor, it was his responsibility to create glassware that would enhance the tasting experience of his beers. Drawing from the Belgian tradition where every type of beer is paired with a specific glass, Cummings embarked on a journey to experiment with a multitude of Belgian beer glasses. This exploration led him to design glassware at Pretentious Glass that is as distinctive as the beers served at Pretentious Beer, which often boasts up to 18 different selections on tap.

“I needed to personally explore what really brings out the flavors in beer,” Cummings reflects.

“Our taproom operates within the brewery and our glass shop is adjacent to the glass studio,” he elaborates. “Visitors can enter, observe the brewing process, order a beer, stroll through our beer garden, and then watch artisans crafting glass.” Pretentious Glass offers glasses in 30 signature designs, alongside a vast array of unique one-off creations. Additionally, handcrafted decanters, holiday ornaments, and other decorative items are available for purchase. Guests even have the opportunity to sign up for a class to create their own glass piece.

The Pretentious Foamy Boi glass is crafted specifically for lagers served through a LUKR faucet, a Czech-style faucet known for its foam control.

For those who find the variety overwhelming, Cummings shares, “My favorite glass to create is the Foamy Boi. The diamond texture feels incredible, and adding the handle is a thrilling process. This cup requires precise execution for optimal performance, which adds an exciting sense of drama to the experience.”

The Pretentious Pilsner Glass showcases a gentle flare that elevates the beer’s foam cap.

For those seeking a more polished and straightforward option, Cummings expresses, “I take immense pride in the Pilsner Glass. It stands out in my collection due to its simplicity compared to my typically extravagant designs. However, its charm lies in its classic aesthetics—no gimmicks or complicated techniques—but it remains incredibly captivating. It perfectly balances uniqueness with approachability. The mild, subtle flare at the top of the glass forms a pillowy head like no other. Whenever I wish to create an impressive, creamy, slow-pour head on a pils, this is the glass I reach for. It’s genuinely one of my favorite aspects of being a brewer who also dabbles in glassmaking.”

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Cider has long played a significant role in American culture, and Colorado’s Stem Ciders is excited to highlight notable American hard cideries during The Great American Beer Festival.

For the first time, Stem Ciders is proud to participate in the festival by including cider in the competition segment.

Located in Lafayette, Colorado, Stem Ciders is welcoming leading cider makers from across the country to its tap room in the RiNO neighborhood of Denver from October 9-12 for a series of events they have dubbed Great American Cider Friends. These festivities coincide with the Great American Beer Festival, taking place in downtown Denver (tickets are still available!). During this four-day event, attendees can look forward to live music, trivia contests, tastings, games, and exclusive product releases. In addition to the offerings from Stem Ciders, well-known cideries such as Eden, 2Towns, Finnriver, and St. Vrain will also be featured.

The inaugural Great American Cider Friends event promises an exciting lineup of some of the finest cideries in the U.S., along with live music, trivia, and specially curated tastings.

The purpose of this event is straightforward: The Great American Beer Festival (GABF) is introducing cider into its competition segment for the first time. GABF is recognized as the largest beer competition globally, with nearly 10,000 beverages evaluated annually.

“We are thrilled to celebrate cider’s debut in the GABF competition alongside our cider companions and favorites,” expressed Patrick Combs, Director of Liquids at Stem Ciders. “This groundbreaking week is all about sharing our passion for craft cider — and of course, we had to gather our Great American Cider Friends at Stem Ciders RiNO.”

Shane Sheridan, Head Cider Maker at Stem Ciders, echoed Combs’ enthusiasm regarding cider’s inclusion in GABF’s competition.

“The Great American Beer Festival is genuinely remarkable, uniting the most dedicated craft beverage fans from all over the nation. We feel privileged to compete this year alongside the best in America within one of the industry’s most challenging competitions,” stated Sheridan. “Cider has always been a significant part of the American craft beverage landscape, and we’re eager to share a glimpse of that story with everyone.”

The multi-day event, Great American Cider Friends, will commence on October 9 with an exclusive guided tasting of pommeau, a delectable drink combining apple juice and apple brandy. This tasting will start at 4 p.m. and feature Stem Ciders’ Head Cider Maker Sheridan alongside Director of Liquids Combs. The night will wrap up with a lively session of classic pub trivia beginning at 7 p.m.

On Thursday, October 10, starting at 7 p.m., attendees can enjoy limited edition ciders aged in bourbon barrels while soaking in the sounds of live music. Friday, October 11 will focus on fruited ciders, keeping the lively music jam going.

The event will culminate on Saturday, October 12 with a GABF afterparty, where patrons can enjoy two for one Stem Ciders by presenting their GABF wristband. Each day, the first 40 visitors to attend an event will receive a complimentary Stem Ciders glass.

Entry to Great American Cider Friends is free and welcoming to all. Every day presents a unique experience, ranging from traditional apple blends to adventurous, innovative flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cider lover or simply curious to learn more, these events promise to delight everyone.

If you’re looking for additional details or wish to RSVP for the Great American Cider Friends event, be sure to check out the website of Stem Ciders:

Don’t forget to follow Stem Ciders on Instagram at @stemciders and @stemcidersrino.

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WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI — The craft beer brewing industry has suffered a significant loss with the recent passing of Ron Jeffries, the founder of Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales.

In 2004, Jeffries, along with his wife Laurie, established Jolly Pumpkin in Dexter. The brewery later expanded to various locations throughout Michigan, including Ann Arbor, Detroit, East Lansing, and Traverse City.

Tony Grant, a longtime friend and business partner, described Jeffries as “a Renaissance man” and noted that he was “wicked smart.”

“Jeffries established new categories and trends within the industry,” remarked Grant, CEO and CFO of Northern United Brewing Co. “And he consistently did this.”

Northern United Brewing Co. was founded in 2008, uniting Jolly Pumpkin, North Peak Brewing Co., and Grizzly Peak Brewing Co., where Jeffries had previously worked as a brewer.

“Ron embodied creativity and passion,” he explained. “He had a brilliant mind, capable of sourcing and discovering ingredients and flavors that would surprise people.”

His specialty lay in crafting sour beers.

“There wasn’t a sour beer category in the U.S. for competitions or medals,” Grant remarked. “He truly initiated it.”

Grant emphasized that his influence reaches far beyond the brewery.

Jeffries played a vital role as a founding member of the Michigan Brewers Guild. He also worked closely with brewers from all over the nation and internationally, assisting many in establishing their own breweries.

“His generosity in sharing his time and expertise was remarkable,” Grant noted. “Numerous brewers and breweries throughout the country owe their beginnings to his support.”

He also recalls his friend as a “quirky, funny” individual with a wit that was “off the charts.”

“He was also undeniably the most caring, generous, and loving person, too,” he shared.

Son Daemon Jeffries announced his father’s passing in a Facebook post on Monday, Sept. 30.

“It is with heavy hearts that we honor Ron Jeffries, a devoted husband and father, who made an impact on many lives through his passion and creativity,” Daemon Jeffries expressed in the post.

Jeffries is survived by his son, his wife Laurie Jeffries, and daughter-in-law Ashley Megan.

“Ron was not only a devoted family man but also a brilliant creative mind and an everlasting learner,” Daemon Jeffries remarked in his message.

Before his passing, Ron and Laurie Jeffries had relocated to Hawaii where they were engaged in setting up a brewery.

“In his last year, Ron achieved his dream of relocating to Hawaii, where he enthusiastically pursued the family brewery venture,” Daemon Jeffries shared in part of his message. “He was thrilled about the future possibilities with Hilo Brewing Company/Holoholo Brewing. He treasured the moments spent on his lanai, enjoying the Hilo rain with a pint in hand.”

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A beer toast.

There’s something truly delightful about enjoying a chilled beer in an open-air environment. Beer gardens provide a one-of-a-kind experience for socializing with friends, sampling local brews, and soaking in the ambiance. Throughout the United States, beer gardens vary from laid-back neighborhood spots to expansive venues rich in history. Whether you’re a lover of traditional lagers or contemporary IPAs, these beer gardens have been chosen for their exceptional settings that are perfect for your next drink.

Founded in 1866, Scholz Garten stands as the oldest operating beer garden in the country and retains a strong tie to its German heritage. Just a short stroll from the Texas Capitol, this Austin landmark is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, local brews, and German-style lagers. The spacious outdoor area is perfect for gathering, and during the football season, it becomes a favored spot for University of Texas supporters. Enjoy a bratwurst, order a local beer, and bask in the Texas sun.

Nestled beneath the High Line in Manhattan’s Meatpacking District, The Standard Biergarten merges New York City’s urban chicness with the classic beer garden atmosphere. This lively spot features communal picnic tables, ping-pong tables, and a menu showcasing pretzels, bratwurst, and German beers. Despite its stylish location, The Standard offers a laid-back vibe, making it a favorite hangout for both locals and travelers looking to relax with a beer after exploring the city.

Hofbräuhaus Las Vegas is a faithful replica of the original Hofbräuhaus in Munich, featuring a spacious outdoor beer garden that captures the essence of Bavarian charm. Here, the beer is imported straight from Munich, crafted in accordance with the Reinheitsgebot (German Beer Purity Law). Guests can anticipate a lively atmosphere complete with authentic Bavarian music and delicious German cuisine. For anyone seeking to enjoy a genuine Oktoberfest atmosphere in the U.S., this beer garden presents an authentic taste of Bavaria right on the Las Vegas Strip.

Established in 1910, Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden stands as one of the few remaining traditional beer gardens in New York City. Situated in Astoria, Queens, it has been a cherished community gathering spot for over a hundred years. The spacious outdoor area is adorned with leafy trees and shaded picnic tables, creating an inviting atmosphere to savor Czech pilsners, German lagers, or local craft beers. Alongside beverages, Bohemian Hall serves up classic Central European dishes, making it an ideal place for a long and leisurely afternoon.

Nestled in Orange County, The Biergarten at Old World brings a taste of Germany to sunny California. This beer garden is part of the expansive Old World Village, a Bavarian-themed complex that includes German restaurants, shops, and even Oktoberfest celebrations. The outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying imported German beers along with traditional dishes like schnitzel and sausages. Its close proximity to the beach offers a relaxed atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for enjoying a beer after a sunny day.

Housed in a historic building that once functioned as the German clubhouse in Indianapolis, The Rathskeller Biergarten has been delighting patrons with beers since 1894. The spacious beer garden, equipped with a stage for live performances, remains a favorite destination in the city. Guests can relish an extensive selection of German and local beers alongside hearty offerings like schnitzel, sausages, and pretzels. The beer garden is particularly lively during warmer months, attracting locals who gather to enjoy drinks and live music.

If you enjoy Budweiser, the Biergarten at Anheuser-Busch in St. Louis is an essential destination. Situated on the historic Anheuser-Busch Brewery grounds, this beer garden allows you to savor beers crafted just a stone’s throw away. The expansive outdoor space is ideal for beer enthusiasts eager to explore a diverse selection from the Anheuser-Busch portfolio, featuring some exclusive brews available only at this location. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-oriented, with brewery tours offered before or after your experience.

In the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, Devil’s Backbone Basecamp Brewpub & Meadows provides breathtaking views alongside an excellent beer selection. Known for its outdoor ambiance, this Virginia brewery allows guests to enjoy craft beers amidst nature. The beer garden, called The Meadows, features fire pits, a stage for live music, and ample picnic tables, making it a perfect stop for hikers, campers, or anyone seeking a cold beer in a refreshing mountain setting.

Perched atop Ponce City Market, The Beer Garden boasts panoramic views of Atlanta’s skyline and offers a thoughtfully curated selection of beers. As part of the larger Rooftop at Ponce City Market complex, which features games, dining options, and event spaces, this garden invites guests looking to enjoy a casual afternoon drink or to catch the sunset. The lively, inviting atmosphere is complemented by beers from both local and international breweries.

In the Northern Liberties area of Philadelphia, Frankford Hall adds a contemporary flair to the traditional beer garden scene. This urban setting features a blend of indoor and outdoor seating with long communal tables, fire pits, and even ping-pong tables. The beer menu prominently showcases German classics like Weihenstephaner and Köstritzer while also offering diverse local craft selections. Its laid-back, comfortable vibe makes it an ideal spot for enjoying a few beers with friends.

Across the nation, these famous beer gardens showcase just a selection of the fantastic places where you can savor a drink in the open air. Whether you prefer classic German beer halls or contemporary rooftop venues, there is a beer garden suited for every beer enthusiast.

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The 2024 Poway Fall Festival is set to embrace the spirit of autumn with an array of food trucks, a Beer & Wine Garden, engaging music, and lively entertainment on Sunday, October 6.

This delightful event, which is free to attend, will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Midland Road, stretching from Poway Road to Hilleary Place.

The Beer & Wine Garden will feature refreshing drinks from AleSmith Brewing Company, The Hop Stop, Barrel Riot craft wine, and Bernardo Winery. Located at the southern end of the festival near the main stage, this year will see an increase in seating to better serve food and beverage patrons.

For the younger attendees, a Kids Fun Zone will offer jumps and slides. Each activity will be available for a fee of $10, but an unlimited all-day pass can be purchased for $30.

The upcoming event will showcase a classic car exhibition alongside a fire engine display, where attendees can meet firefighters and Sheriff’s personnel featured in a Community Heroes area located at the north end of the event.

Organized by the Poway Chamber of Commerce, this gathering is one of their primary fundraising activities of the year.

Mike Leland, President and CEO of the Chamber, mentioned that the funds raised during the festival support the Chamber’s operations, including various community activities.

“As we improve our financial standing, we are eager to reinvest more resources back into the community,” Leland shared. “We are experiencing significant growth and attracting many new members. Word is spreading about the quality of our events, and we are committed to maintaining that standard.”

Here is a preliminary schedule for the Community Stage:

To learn more, check out Poway.com, where you’ll find events listed on the Events Calendar.

BROCKTON —– In a surprising turn of events, Brockton Beer Company has declared it won’t be shutting down after all.

Earlier in September, the well-known downtown brewery and restaurant had announced it would be closing its doors permanently.

However, if you thought that last week would be your final chance to enjoy their house-made truffle fries and wagyu burgers, think again. The establishment recently shared on all their social media platforms that BBC will not be closing its doors.

Brockton Beer Company has decided to stay open thanks to the “amazing support” they received over the past week from residents of Brockton and beyond, according to their announcement.

“We’re excited to announce that thanks to a last-minute influx of capital, we’re moving ahead with fresh plans to enhance our service to you, featuring operational changes, greater consistency, and the same exceptional craft beer you cherish,” stated BBC in a post on Facebook.

Why did they consider closing? Brockton Beer Company to close. Here is what we know.

Patrons can look forward to a variety of updates, including changes in ownership, a wholly new menu, and extended operating hours.

We are also bidding farewell to the head chefs — Markos Liapopoulos and Christos Liapopoulos — known for their beloved burgers and fries.

Indeed, those fries secured the number one position in a poll conducted by Enterprise, with readers voting for the best fries in Brockton.

“We are equally thrilled as you to learn about the recent investment in Brockton Beer Company and the continuation of its operations. However, it is with a heavy heart that we announce we will not be continuing our roles within the company. We wish the Silveira and Olmstead families the best in their future projects in Downtown Brockton,” Markos and Christos Liapopoulos shared on Instagram.

What sets their fries apart? Results are in! Here’s who won best fries in Brockton

Although we are bidding farewell to the welcoming staff behind the counter, they take comfort in knowing they have made a significant impact on the city.

“When we embarked on our journey at Brockton Beer, we had three core objectives in mind: 1) establish an open kitchen to foster transparency and friendliness, 2) craft only the finest quality food that our customers truly deserve, and 3) ensure that we have fun and relish not only our work but also the people we serve. Looking back on the past two years and more, we can confidently state that we wouldn’t change a thing. In terms of the dishes we’ve presented, the friendships we’ve formed, and the memories we’ve created, we can embrace those three principles and feel a sense of fulfillment with our achievements,” the two chefs shared on Instagram.

Brockton Beer Company has exciting plans ahead for the city of Brockton. Stay tuned for an upcoming feature on Brockton Eats with Alisha, where we will explore their new menu and unveil what’s next for the brewing company.

This article originally appeared on The Enterprise: Brockton Beer Company brewery and restaurant not closing. What to know

The stormy weather brought by Hurricane Helene on Friday left a significant impact on a beloved beer garden located behind a longtime florist in Lexington.

Michler’s Florist reported on social media that its largest Hackberry tree was uprooted on Friday morning, resulting in the destruction of the vine-covered structures of two of its oldest greenhouses. Among the affected greenhouses was the open-air Kentucky Native Cafe kitchen and serving area.

This secluded cafe is well-regarded for its craft beer and delicious food, offering visitors a tranquil retreat in Lexington. At night, it transforms into a charming urban woodland garden, illuminated by lights draped amid the trees.

On Monday, owner Robin Michler shared that cleanup operations commenced on Saturday.

“Our main goal right now is to clean up, sort through the debris, and recover whatever we can,” Michler mentioned in an email. “Decisions regarding what will be rebuilt and when will involve lengthy discussions, and we won’t be able to provide answers for a while.”

The flower shop and cafe continue to operate during their usual business hours. Michler noted that the cafe is utilizing its winter service window within the largest glass greenhouse. They still intend to feature authors Silas House and David Arnold in their Last Monday Reading Series.

A post on the florists’ website indicated that the main structure for the cafe was constructed in the 1920s and was the larger of the two greenhouses affected by the fallen tree. The second greenhouse dates back to 1907 and was most recently used to house native perennials.

“Please bear with us as we navigate these changes. We’ll be working to restore our history while missing the shade provided by the old Hackberry,” the online update stated.

Established in 1901, Michler’s is a family-run florist shop that has been passed down through five generations. In the spring of 2015, Kentucky Native Cafe made its debut and has recently received the green light to renovate a two-story office building on High Street to create a bakery that will cater to the restaurant’s needs.

The realm of alcoholic beverages is full of misconceptions, making it challenging to discern which assertions hold truth. Some myths are relatively harmless, such as the belief that darker beers are inherently stronger. Ultimately, one is likely to choose based on flavor preference. However, some assertions can have substantial impacts, such as the common belief that all beer is vegan. Regrettably, this is not accurate. In its most basic form, beer is made up of hops, yeast, water, and a grain (like wheat or barley), leading one to think it should be vegan. Yet, with industrialization comes the necessity for accelerated processes, prompting breweries to innovate and experiment with various ingredients. Occasionally, animal products provide the easiest solutions to achieve these goals.

What types of animal products can be present in beer? Many breweries utilize isinglass, derived from fish bladders, to hasten the clarification process. Additional animal-based ingredients can include bone char, gelatin, and lactose. Some ingredients, such as honey in honey ales and oysters in oyster stouts, are clearly not vegan. Given that many consumers are conditioned to view beer as vegan, they might not consider this issue at all.

Learn more: We Tried TikTok’s Tequila Apple Juice Cocktail And It Didn’t Go As Planned

It can be quite challenging to determine if a beer is vegan-friendly. Checking the ingredient list may provide some insight, but memorizing every potential animal-derived element found in beer is hardly feasible. However, there’s no need to worry just yet! Numerous well-known and reputable beers have made the transition to vegan. For example, Guinness has been fully vegan since 2018, much to the delight of vegetarians and vegans alike. Pabst Blue Ribbon also informed The Takeout that it ceased using animal-derived ingredients since 1998, which is notably impressive given the trends of that era.

Several popular brands that are safe for non-meat eaters include Bud Light, Budweiser, Carlsberg, Corona, Dos Equis, Miller, Stella Artois, and Yuengling. Brands like Blue Moon and Heineken offer vegan-friendly beers, but it’s important to note that not all of their selections are animal-free. However, you’ll have no trouble finding a suitable beverage when dining out. If you’re particularly fond of a specific beer, you can check its status on Barnivore, a useful resource that indicates whether an alcohol brand aligns with a vegan diet. The advantage of this site is that it encompasses brands for beer, liquor, and wine, which is useful since wine is also not always vegan. Although it can be quite frustrating, you can always rely on your tried-and-true vegan recipes for comfort.

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Check out the original article on The Takeout.

During the months of August, September, and into October, you may come across beer marked as Oktoberfest on store shelves. The origin of this beer’s name stems from the Oktoberfest Volksfest, celebrated annually in Munich, Germany. This festival, which dates back to 1811, spans approximately two and a half weeks, concluding just slightly into October. The cultural imagery surrounding Oktoberfest is vibrant, often showcasing individuals clad in lederhosen, carrying beer steins. In these depictions, the beer is typically recognized more for its abundance than its craftsmanship; however, the history of Oktoberfest beers is both deep and rich.

At the Munich Oktoberfest, two main types of beer are categorized as Oktoberfest brews: festbiers and märzens. Originating from the Bavarian region, Märzen is an amber lager that is brewed in March (with “Märzen” translating to March in German) and aged until the festival arrives. On the other hand, festbiers also represent German lagers, but they are characterized by a golden hue and a more pronounced malt flavor compared to Märzens.

For further reading: The Complete Guide To Quick Breads

It’s worth noting that Oktoberfest beer, or Oktoberfestbier, isn’t defined as a distinct beer style. Similarly to how sparkling white wine can only be called champagne if produced in the Champagne region, Oktoberfestbier is recognized as a protected geographical indication. Only beers served at the Munich Oktoberfest can be labeled as Oktoberfestbier, and for a beer to qualify for serving there, it must be brewed within the city limits.

The guidelines regarding what qualifies as an Oktoberfestbier mean that only six breweries are authorized to produce it. If you want to experience the authentic taste, seek out beers from Augustiner-Bräu, Hacker-Pschorr-Bräu, Löwenbräu, Paulaner, Spatenbräu, or Hofbräu-München. In the United States, you’ll find these genuine Oktoberfestbiers exclusively in the imports section. While there may be similar choices among domestic beers, they will be labeled as “Oktoberfest Style” and likely differ more from the original brews found in Germany.

The beer served at Munich’s Oktoberfest varies from year to year. Two significant transformations can be noted throughout its history. In the early 1800s, when Oktoberfest was still in its infancy, the majority of beer offered were dunkels, which are dark German lagers. By the mid-1800s, paler, amber märzens began to take over. Then, during the 1970s, Paulaner introduced a lighter version known as festbiers.

While these changes have occurred in Munich, the evolution of Oktoberfest-style beers brewed in the United States has not followed the same trajectory. Although the festbier now reigns in Munich and carries the official designation of “Oktoberfestbier,” American craft breweries still favor the Märzen lagers. Therefore, if you choose an imported Oktoberfest from Munich, you can expect it to be a lighter beer, whereas an “Oktoberfest Style” beer produced in the U.S. will likely adhere to the heavier, more traditional brewing style.

For more information, explore the original article on Chowhound.

“This has delayed us. We won’t be producing beer in the near future. … For now, our focus is on tidying up.”