Beer-articles 913

A Greater Cincinnati beer distributor, Ohio Eagle Distributing, has announced plans to lay off over 100 employees as it prepares for an acquisition. A recent Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) letter revealed that 178 workers across Ohio will lose their jobs, including 124 from the local area. The layoffs are expected to take effect around September 8, primarily impacting staff at their facilities in West Chester Township and Lima.

Despite the layoffs, the company’s president remains hopeful that most, if not all, affected workers will be rehired under the new ownership. Ohio Eagle Distributing is currently in negotiations to sell all its assets, a move that will lead to the termination of its current workforce.

For more details, you can read the full story here.

Boston boasts a rich history of brewing, with roots tracing back to the Bell in Hand Tavern, established in 1795. Today, the city’s craft beer scene is alive and thriving, showcasing a blend of traditional and inventive breweries. With venues featuring live music, trivia nights, and unique offerings, Boston’s breweries cater to a diverse crowd. Here are some highlights:

Aeronaut Brewing Co.

Located in Somerville, Aeronaut combines a cozy atmosphere with a selection of creative brews like the Tangerine Coriander Sour Planet. Visitors can bring food or enjoy offerings from local Venezuelan food truck Carolicious.

Address: 14 Tyler Street, Somerville
Phone: 617-987-4236
Website: aeronautbrewing.com

Drawdown Brewing Co.

This woman-owned brewery in Jamaica Plain is known for its malty beers like the cream ale "Let’s Goooo." The relaxed vibe is heightened during events focusing on women’s sports and local entertainment options.

Address: 3204 Washington Street, Jamaica Plain
Phone: 617-553-2363
Website: drawdownbrewing.com

Dorchester Brewing Co.

Offering stunning skyline views from its greenhouse/roof deck, Dorchester Brewing serves thirst-quenching beers including the refreshing New Moon wheat beer, and the Cobblestone stout.

Address: 1250 Massachusetts Avenue, Dorchester
Phone: 617-514-0900
Website: dorchesterbrewing.com

Harpoon Brewery & Beer Hall

Founded in 1986, Harpoon stands as a beacon in Seaport for reliable brews like its classic IPA. Enjoy homemade pretzels or pizza while participating in onsite events.

Address: 306 Northern Avenue, Seaport
Phone: 617-456-2322
Website: harpoonbrewery.com

Lamplighter Brewing Co.

A hybrid coffee shop and brewery, Lamplighter is famed for its Rabbit Rabbit double IPA and an assortment of local cheeses and cured meats.

Address: 284 Broadway, Cambridge
Phone: 617-945-0450
Website: lamplighterbrewing.com

Long Live Roxbury

Long Live offers excellent food, tasty IPAs, and an array of entertainment options for non-beer lovers. This welcoming environment ensures everyone has a good time.

Address: 152 Hampden Street, Roxbury
Phone: 617-334-5633
Website: longlivebeerworks.com

Mighty Squirrel Brewing Co.

Known for its flagship Cloud Candy IPA, Mighty Squirrel’s Fenway location boasts a menu with Latin-inspired dishes and a vibrant atmosphere.

Address: 1 David Ortiz Drive, Fenway
Phone: 857-557-5700
Website: mightysquirrel.com

Notch Brewing

Specializing in Czech and German-style beers, Notch Brewing in Brighton has a biergarten feel complete with communal seating and hearty fare like pretzels and sausage.

Address: 525 Western Avenue, Brighton
Phone: 617-548-2947
Website: notchbrewing.com

Portico Brewing

With inviting outdoor spaces for families and dogs, Portico stands out for its exceptional beers and a menu featuring tacos from Taqueria El Barrio.

Address: 101 South Street, Somerville
Phone: 617-764-5215
Website: porticobrewing.com

Remnant Brewing

Famed for its patio and charming taproom, Remnant serves thoughtful brews like the Dream Pop pale ale and supports local initiatives with its food offerings.

Address: Bow Market, 2 Bow Market Way, Somerville
Phone: 617-764-0641
Website: remnantsomerville.com

Roundhead Brewing Co.

Focused on community and inspired by Peruvian flavors, Roundhead in Hyde Park serves distinctive styles like Chimú, a red ale brewed with purple corn.

Address: Westinghouse Plaza Building, Number 10, Hyde Park
Phone: 617-360-7070
Website: roundheadbrewing.com

Trillium Brewing

Trillium’s original Fort Point location remains a favorite for its celebrated IPAs. Its new locations provide diverse beer experiences alongside food options from nearby vendors.

Address: 50 Thomson Place, Fort Point
Phone: 857-449-0083
Website: trilliumbrewing.com

Widowmaker Brewing

Located in Braintree, Widowmaker features craft beers like Blue Comet and seasonal specialties that rotate throughout the year, offering something for every palate.

Address: 190 North Beacon Street, Brighton
Phone: 617-390-0660
Website: widowmakerbrewing.com

Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer enthusiast or looking to explore Boston’s vibrant brewing scene, these locations offer something for everyone.

After pouring a brown, gritty liquid from a large silver tank into a refractometer, South African brewing master Apiwe Nxusani-Mawela expresses her approval to students, who enthusiastically share their observations. "When you are brewing, you must constantly check your mixture," she emphasizes, highlighting the need for balance between sugar and grains.

At 41, Nxusani-Mawela is a pioneering figure as the first Black woman to own a craft brewery in South Africa. Her goal is to broaden access to the multibillion-dollar beer industry for more Black individuals and women. At her microbrewery in Johannesburg, she trains 13 young Black graduates, most of whom are women, in the brewing craft.

The students come from backgrounds in chemical engineering, biotechnology, or analytical chemistry and are eager to gain qualifications specific to brewing. During their extensive six-hour class, they learn various brewing techniques such as malting, mashing, and fermentation—all essential steps in brewing quality beer. "My favorite part is the mashing," says Lerato Banda, a 30-year-old chemical engineering student aiming to launch her own beverage line. "It’s where the beer and everything starts."

Nxusani-Mawela’s Brewsters Academy, where the classes began in early June, focuses on beer varieties from around the world and Africa. Students will complete a six-month hands-on experience in addition to their lessons.

Located in Johannesburg’s Wynberg suburb, Nxusani-Mawela’s Tolokazi brewery lies between the poorer township of Alexandra and the affluent financial district of Sandton, often referred to as Africa’s richest square mile. She grew up in Butterworth—about 621 miles away—and was inspired by a university event to pursue a career in brewing. Initially, she began brewing as an amateur in 2007, combining her passion for business and science, leveraging her microbiology degree.

Nxusani-Mawela is committed to transforming the beer industry for future generations. "I wanted to ensure that being the first Black female to own a brewery in South Africa, I’m not the first and the last," she states. Her aim is to normalize the presence of Black individuals and women in the industry over the next decade.

The South African beer industry generates over $5.2 billion for the country’s economy and supports more than 200,000 jobs. Despite its male-dominated nature, there are ongoing initiatives to incorporate more women.

Lehlohonolo Makhethe, a 24-year-old student, acknowledges the historical connection between women and brewing in some African cultures. She believes acquiring these skills is reclaiming their traditional roles. "How it got male dominated, I don’t know," she remarks, adding, "we are going back to our roots as women."

Nxusani-Mawela also emphasizes the importance of maintaining traditional African beer styles. Her award-winning Wild African Soul beer, which brings together elements of Umqombothi (a traditional African beer made from maize and sorghum) and Belgian Saison, showcases this vision. "Umqombothi is our African way, and everybody should know how to make it, but we don’t," she reflects, highlighting her desire to merge the past with contemporary brewing.

Utilizing unique South African flavors, her Tolokazi line includes beers infused with marula fruit and rooibos, typically known for its tea. A festival participant, Lethabo Seipei Kekae, expressed surprise at enjoying rooibos beer, stating, "It’s so smooth. Even if you are not a beer drinker, you can drink it.

The Friends of Findley State Park, Inc. held a successful root beer float social on July 5, drawing over 100 attendees to raise funds for the park. Tricia Andel, the organization’s president, expressed optimism about their goals despite recent budget cuts affecting park operations.

The event took place from 1 to 3 p.m. beside the campground’s shelter house, which was built in 2002 with funds raised by the Friends. Each root beer float, sold for $2, was made with vanilla ice cream and root beer. The organization hosts root beer socials over Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day weekends.

This year’s primary fundraising goal is to complete pickleball courts near the boat ramp within the camping area. The necessary concrete pad for the four-court setup was poured at the end of June, with a total project cost of approximately $16,000. The group received a $7,400 grant from the Lorain County Public Health’s Healthy Places grant program.

The next fundraising event, the Forest Frolic Trail Race and Hike, is set for July 12. Although the Friends of Findley started fundraising in 2002, they were officially established as a non-profit organization in 2004. Their mission focuses on building new attractions and preserving Findley State Park, which spans 838 acres of wooded land and features a large lake, providing opportunities for camping, boating, and hiking.

For more information on the Friends of Findley’s fundraising activities or to register for the Forest Frolic, visit www.friendsoffindley.org.

During my recent interrailing trip across Europe, I had the opportunity to visit Munich, often celebrated as the beer capital of Europe due to its famous Oktoberfest festival. While staying in the city center, I made an essential decision that transformed my visit: venturing out to local parks to experience Munich’s vibrant beer gardens.

Munich is filled with popular tourist attractions such as Marienplatz and the BMW Museum, which are undoubtedly worth seeing. However, what makes a trip to this German city truly special is the chance to explore beyond the typical tourist spots. I was thrilled to discover the lush parks that host stunning beer gardens, a beloved local pastime.

One of the highlights of my botanical exploration was Cafe Gans am Wasser, located in Westpark. This delightful spot is known for its quirky furniture and variety of beer options, all enjoyed in a charming atmosphere. It quickly became a favorite of mine during my stay.

Moreover, Munich’s beer culture thrives not only through its renowned festival but also year-round, drawing thousands of beer enthusiasts. Whether embarking on a beer tour or simply enjoying a cold brew in a local garden, the experience is rich and fulfilling.

In my park wanderings, I also discovered Olympiapark, which is adorned with hills offering breathtaking views and insights into the city’s Olympic history. There, locals lounged peacefully, sharing laughter and stories on sunny afternoons. The English Gardens captivated me with winding trails, open spaces, and serene rivers, presenting an inviting locale to sip beer and savor traditional Bavarian cuisine.

While Munich’s city center is bustling with bars, the real charm lies in these peaceful parks where Munich residents unwind. Other beer gardens on my list that I didn’t explore include Hirschgarten, Flaucher, and Aumeister—each promising their own unique experiences.

Before leaving for Stuttgart, I made sure to stop by Nymphenburg Palace, a magnificent green space that showcased impeccable landscaping. My three days spent in Munich were filled with unforgettable moments, largely thanks to the beer gardens tucked away in the city’s beautiful landscapes.

For anyone planning a visit, I highly recommend stepping outside the city’s tourist traps and embracing the ambiance of Munich’s local parks and beer gardens.

Visit Munich for more insights on hidden gems in the city.

In celebration of Independence Day, the story reminds us of the challenging journey of 10 Barrel Brewing as it attempted to enter the competitive San Diego beer market. When it opened its East Village brewpub in May 2017, a group of local brewers and beer enthusiasts protested with a banner reading “10 Barrel is Not Craft Beer,” reflecting the local craft community’s resistance to corporate breweries.

Though 10 Barrel’s closure in late 2020 was attributed to COVID-19 restrictions, it was also a product of the unwelcoming attitude of craft beer fans towards corporate brewers. The definition of "craft beer," traditionally associated with small and independent breweries, has evolved over time, leading to significant acquisitions of once-independent brands like Ballast Point and Saint Archer, which experienced public boycotts and ultimately ceased operations after being purchased by larger corporations.

Notably, the craft beer scene has seen major shifts as some previously independent breweries, such as Lagunitas and New Belgium, have become part of larger beverage conglomerates. This transformation raises questions about the future of craft beer’s identity, as Erik Fowler from the San Diego Brewers Guild acknowledges the fluidity of the term and how consumer perceptions define it today.

Meanwhile, the landscape for San Diego breweries is evolving. One notable partnership is between the Cohn Restaurant Group and Tarantula Hill Brewing, which creates various beers, including a Mexican lager for its La Mesa locations. Additionally, Brewery X has recently launched a new session ale at the Sheraton San Diego Resort.

As part of the craft beer scene’s heritage, certain established brands like Samuel Adams and Sierra Nevada continue to provide satisfying options for fans. The once clear distinctions between craft and corporate are becoming more complex, leading consumers to redefine their preferences in the evolving market.

Three individuals were apprehended after a beer theft at a 7-Eleven was recorded by a Marion County deputy’s dash camera. The event occurred around 9:45 p.m. on June 28 when Sheriff’s Cpl. Michael Stringer, while getting gas, was approached by a clerk from the convenience store. The clerk informed him that someone had just stolen beer from the store.

As the suspect vehicle was leaving the parking lot, Cpl. Stringer attempted to initiate a traffic stop. The driver, 31-year-old Jaitai Williams, refused to comply and attempted to flee. Eventually, the vehicle was stopped, and she was detained, facing charges for fleeing from law enforcement.

During the arrest, Raymond Myrick, the 48-year-old front-seat passenger, allegedly threw drugs out of the window. He was subsequently charged with possession of cocaine and marijuana, with field tests confirming the presence of THC, cocaine, and fentanyl in the discarded substances.

The back-seat passenger, 19-year-old Steven Hogan, was also detained and charged with retail petit theft. It was found that he was the one who stole the beer, as three cases of Modelo were located in the back seat where he had been sitting. All three individuals were taken to the Marion County Jail.

California’s Maltose Falcons and Connecticut’s Underground Brewers are significant pillars in the rise of the American craft beer movement. Established 51 years ago, the Maltose Falcons are recognized as the nation’s oldest homebrewing club, formed in a time when homebrewing was illegal but tolerated. Meanwhile, only one craft brewery, Anchor Brewing in San Francisco, stood as a beacon in the craft landscape.

This original club, along with other homebrewing groups like the Underground Brewers, played a crucial role in advocating for the legalization of homebrewing, which they pursued vigorously in the late 1970s. Drew Beechum, the Maltose Falcons’ grand hydrometer, emphasizes that without their lobbying efforts, the craft beer industry would likely not have flourished as it has.

The Underground Brewers, celebrating their 50th anniversary, have roots in a homebrew supply store founded by Pat Baker and Nancy Crosby, which evolved into a major supplier for craft brewers. Their efforts in forming the Home Beer and Wine Trade Association were critical in changing federal laws.

A legacy of both clubs is the number of members who transitioned from homebrewers to professional brewers. Notable members include Paul Camusi of Sierra Nevada Brewing and Skip Virgilio of AleSmith Brewing. Similarly, Underground Brewer members have established their own breweries across Connecticut.

Both clubs also maintain a culture of education and community at their meetings, often featuring topics like brewing techniques and styles. They foster not just brewing skills but also camaraderie among members through gatherings that sometimes involve tasting sessions and social events.

The Maltose Falcons meet monthly, combining educational discussions with tastings of homebrewed creations. Members exchange recipes, provide feedback, and organize seasonal festivals that feature food and fun.

The Underground Brewers operate similarly, holding formal judging meetings and social events throughout the year. Their gatherings also explore broader topics in brewing, such as techniques in crafting specific types of beers.

The experience of club members highlights the profound impact of homebrewing on the craft beer revolution. Tiffany Ashrafi, the current president of the Maltose Falcons, recalls her journey from helping her parents with brewing at a young age to experiencing firsthand the surge in craft beer quality compared to store-bought options. Her involvement crystallized her understanding of the community’s significant role in the craft beer industry.

Beechum reflects on the extraordinary growth of craft beer, marveling at how homebrewers, often characterized by their casual nature and passion for brewing, have sustained the momentum of this cultural phenomenon. For many, this hobby is not just about brewing; it opens doors to new friendships and experiences, marking a vibrant chapter in America’s beer history.

Ahead of the much-anticipated season 14 revival of King of the Hill on Hulu, a brewery in San Antonio, Texas, is making the show’s fictional "Alamo" beer a reality. Alamo Beer Co. has partnered with Hulu to create this brew, intended for release before the premiere on August 4.

Previously, only the show’s iconic characters—Hank, Dale, Bill, and Boomhauer—could enjoy the fictional beer on-screen. Now, fans will have the opportunity to taste it for themselves, especially those living in Texas where it will debut first.

Eugene Simor, the founder of Alamo Beer Co., confirmed the beer’s development, stating, "It’s real…We’re just trying to finalize when the actual date will be for release." Those who attended a sneak peek of the revival at the ATX TV Festival in May were fortunate enough to sample the "easily chuggable" beer.

The new Alamo beer is set to hit store shelves in July or August, allowing fans a chance to enjoy it just before the revival of the show. The upcoming season promises to follow the Hill family years after we last saw them, with Hank and Peggy now retired and navigating a transformed Arlen, while their son Bobby, now 21, experiences life as a chef in Dallas.

For more details, check out the original article from the Express-News. King of the Hill‘s season 14 revival will stream on Hulu starting August 4.

“Saturday Night Live” star Colin Jost is embracing a new partnership with Blue Moon, the beer brand that has made him its first celebrity ambassador. To kick off the campaign titled "Nothing Outshines a Blue Moon," Jost is giving back to his Staten Island community by offering free beers at his favorite local bars.

On June 24, adults 21 and over can get one complimentary Blue Moon beer at Jody’s Club Forest and O’Neill’s Restaurant & Bar from 6 p.m., and at The Kettle Black starting at 7 p.m. The events are subject to availability, and attendees may even have the chance to see Jost make a surprise appearance.

In addition to the giveaways, Jost has co-written and stars in two new commercials for the brand. One spot, “Orange & Son,” features him having a conversation with animated oranges regarding the beer’s signature orange slice, while the other, “Zoom In,” uses humor to focus on the beer as the camera nearly crops out Jost himself.

This partnership highlights Blue Moon’s “Made Brighter” initiative, which aims to differentiate the beer in a competitive summer beverage market. Jost, a Staten Island native who has been part of "SNL" since 2005 and co-host of the "Weekend Update" since 2014, is excited about this new role representing a brand he enjoys.