Beer-articles 908

The trend of beer festivals is shifting from large, crowded events to smaller, more intimate gatherings that prioritize quality and consumer experience. The Great American Beer Festival, which has long been a flagship occasion in the beer community, has undergone significant changes due to declining attendance. For the first time since its inception in 1982, the format was revamped, reducing the number of sessions and introducing thematic entertainment areas. This move is part of an effort to revive interest and engagement in beer festivals.

While large festivals grapple with ticket sales and evolving consumer preferences, smaller festivals are experiencing a renaissance. Events like the Firestone Walker Invitational Beer Festival in Paso Robles, California, have thrived by focusing on quality over quantity. Brewmaster Matt Brynildson emphasizes curation and exclusivity, inviting only the best breweries and ensuring that their brewmasters are present to interact with attendees. This creates a premium atmosphere, encouraging ticket holders to appreciate the craft behind each beer.

Similarly, Good Word Brewing in Duluth, Georgia, hosts several intimate festivals throughout the year that cater to specific themes and targeted audiences. Owner Todd DiMatteo intentionally set out to differentiate his festivals from larger, less personalized ones. By focusing on quality offerings and the community aspect of the events, these gatherings are able to attract discerning beer enthusiasts who seek nuanced tasting experiences rather than merely sampling as many beers as possible.

As craft beer continues to evolve, the palate of the consumer has also matured. With almost 10,000 breweries in America, beer lovers are becoming increasingly selective, favoring curated experiences that highlight the artistry of brewing. This shift signals a growing appreciation for craftsmanship in beer, indicating that smaller festivals could very well represent the future of beer culture.

Here are some noteworthy small beer festivals to consider:

Firestone Walker Invitational Beer Festival

Held annually in Paso Robles, California, this festival features around 70 top breweries from around the world. Breweries must send a representative to discuss their offerings, ensuring a personal touch for attendees.

Good Word Brewing Events

Good Word Brewing organizes three themed festivals, including:

1. Little Beer: A spring celebration of lower-alcohol beers.
2. Le Bon: A September event that pairs saisons with oysters.
3. Mighty Fine Fest: A new festival focusing on West Coast IPAs, debuting in June 2025.

Denver Rare Beer Tasting

This exclusive event showcases rare beers and is limited to just 450 attendees, with proceeds supporting a charity focused on prostate cancer.

Festival of Wood and Barrel-Aged Beer (FOBAB)

Held in Chicago, this November festival offers a diverse range of barrel-aged beers, celebrating the unique flavors that wood aging brings.

Alaska Craft Brew & Barley Wine Festival

Taking place in Anchorage every January, this event highlights flavorful barley wines and is a great way to enjoy craft beer during the winter months.

As the beer festival landscape continues to change, events that embrace a more intimate setting while keeping the focus on quality may likely remain popular among beer enthusiasts.

Lagers are witnessing a resurgence, even amidst a challenging period for the craft beer industry. Despite a reduction in overall consumption and increasing brewery closures, lagers have consistently gained popularity among both brewers and consumers. This trend was highlighted at the recent World Beer Cup in Indianapolis, a leading international beer competition that saw over 8,375 submissions from 49 countries, including more than 1,000 lagers across various categories.

Judged by over 200 experts through 14 tasting segments, the World Beer Cup awarded gold medals to standout entries, focusing not only on traditional styles but also on innovative interpretations of lagers. Here’s a look at some of the notable winners that showcased the versatility and craftsmanship in this beer style.

The Best Lagers of 2025

• Classic Non-Alcohol Ale or Lager

  • Gold: Tsingtao Non-Alcoholic Wheat Beer, Tsingtao Brewery Co., Qingdao, China

• Kellerbier or Zwickelbier

  • Gold: Broumy, Pivovar Matuška, Broumy, Czech Republic

• American Light Lager

  • Gold: Clubhaus Lager, Von Ebert Brewing, Portland, OR

• International Light Lager

  • Gold: Solveza, Peaceful Side Brewery, Maryville, TN

• International-Style Lager

  • Gold: Yamagata, Original Pattern Brewing, Oakland, CA

• Hoppy Lager

  • Gold: Cold IPA, pFriem Family Brewers, Hood River, OR

• Munich-Style Dunkel

  • Gold: G.G., Exile Brewing Co., Des Moines, IA

• International Dark Lager

  • Gold: Late Czech Out, Pilot Brewing Co., Charlotte, NC

• Munich-Style Helles

  • Gold: Construct Of Quality, Cinder Block Brewery, North Kansas City, MO

• Dortmunder/Export or German-Style Oktoberfest

  • Gold: The Cushman, Morgan Territory Brewing, Tracy, CA

• Vienna-Style Lager

  • Gold: Vienna, Second Street Brewery, Santa Fe, NM

• German-Style Maerzen or Franconian-Style Rotbier

  • Gold: Follow the Lederhosen, Moontown Brewing Co., Whitestown, IN

• German-Style Schwarzbier

  • Gold: Schwarz Bear, Gatlinburg Brewing Co., Sevierville, TN

• German-Style Bock or Maibock

  • Gold: Cold Front, Avery Brewing Co., Boulder, CO

• German-Style Doppelbock or Eisbock

  • Gold: Curse The Goat, Shoreline Brewery, Michigan City, IN

• American-Style Lager

  • Gold: Vacancy Classic, Vacancy Brewing, Austin, TX

• Contemporary American-Style Lager

  • Gold: El Pato Loco, Able Baker Brewing Co., Las Vegas, NV

• American-Style Amber Lager

  • Gold: 40 Mike Mike, Free Roam Brewing Co., Boerne, TX

Finding the Best Lagers of 2025

Many of these award-winning lagers come from breweries with limited distribution; however, some may offer shipping options. To find out if these beers are available near you, check individual brewery websites. Additionally, the World Beer Cup results page provides access to search for other medalists by state.

George Wendt, best known for his role as the beer-loving Norm Peterson on the iconic NBC sitcom Cheers, has passed away at the age of 76. His family confirmed that he died peacefully in his sleep at his home in Los Angeles from natural causes.

Wendt’s career began in Chicago with the renowned improvisational comedy troupe, Second City, during the 1970s. He gained further prominence when he portrayed Bob Swerski, one of the "superfans" on Saturday Night Live. His television work included numerous appearances alongside various high-profile stars.

Wendt’s film credits encompass a range of movies, including Dreamscape, Fletch, and Spice World, among others. He famously played a grumpy father in Michael Jackson’s "Black or White" music video. He was the uncle of actor Jason Sudeikis, a testament to the family’s artistic legacy.

As Norm Peterson, Wendt became a beloved character on Cheers, which ran for 11 seasons from 1982 to 1993. He maintained a strong presence on the show, tying for the record of most episodes alongside Ted Danson and Rhea Perlman. His portrayal earned him six consecutive Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series.

In his personal life, Wendt was described as a devoted family man. He is survived by his wife of nearly five decades, Bernadette Birkett, and their children. His legacy will continue through numerous interactions he had with fans, who frequently greeted him with cheers echoing his on-screen persona.

Wendt often reflected on his role as Norm, highlighting the challenges of pretending to drink beer for extended periods on set. He enjoyed acting but was known for his self-deprecating humor about his character’s quirks and his own performing experiences.

As a celebrated figure in television history, Wendt was not just a familiar face but also a complex actor whose contributions to laughter and entertainment will be long remembered.

HONOLULU – In celebration of American Craft Beer Week, Honolulu Beerworks has launched a new taproom in Kalihi alongside their latest conservation beer, aimed at raising awareness for the endangered black-footed albatross. Founded in 2014, the brewery has expanded significantly, unveiling a spacious facility at 1632 Hart St.

To commemorate the opening and the release of their new beer, Kahuku Ka’upu, the brewery is hosting a “Bird is the Word” event on May 24. Owner Geoffrey Seideman shared details on HNN’s Sunrise, introducing patrons to the innovative beer crafted with tangerines, in collaboration with the James Campbell Wildlife Refuge.

The new taproom will operate from Thursday to Saturday between noon and 6 p.m., featuring rotating food trucks and a diverse array of handcrafted beers that incorporate local ingredients such as tropical fruits, honey, and coffee. Seideman emphasized the brewery’s strong community engagement, highlighting their commitment to environmental causes through seasonal conservation beers.

For more information about Honolulu Beerworks and their offerings, visit honolulubeerworks.com.

Hooters, an iconic restaurant chain, recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to restructure its debts and continue operations. The filing occurred in March, and the company has been working with stakeholders to support its financial recovery. Despite the bankruptcy, Hooters remains open and operational.

In an exciting development, wrestling legend Hulk Hogan’s company, Real American Beer, is reportedly considering an all-cash bid for Hooters’ intellectual property. This strategic move aims to incorporate Hooters into Hogan’s growing portfolio, which focuses on building a lifestyle brand that resonates with modern consumers.

With plans to revitalize Hooters, Hogan’s brand intends to expand into various areas, including consumer products, digital content, gaming, and experiential formats. This relaunch aims to re-energize the Hooters brand for today’s audiences, all while honoring its original spirit.

Hooters, founded in Hogan’s hometown of Clearwater, Florida, was among the first establishments to carry Real American Beer shortly after its launch. The collaboration aligns well with Hogan’s vision to merge entertainment and patriotism through his products.

The potential acquisition signals a positive shift for Hooters as it seeks to solidify its financial foundation and continue delivering its well-known hospitality and dining experience to customers.

J West Bottle Shop has become a cherished gathering place for beer, wine, and cider enthusiasts in the Lents neighborhood of Portland since its opening in 2019. Owner Jeff Welton describes the warm, communal atmosphere where patrons might even bring in homemade dishes, like a fresh Detroit-style pizza, to share.

Previously known as Lents Draft and Bottle, the establishment underwent a brief closure in September 2024 for Welton to take sole ownership and rebrand the bar. Despite the change, J West reopened smoothly, quickly regaining its loyal customer base who appreciate its carefully curated assortment of craft beverages. Though the Portland bar scene is vast, J West’s location is a notable aspect that elevates its status as a local gem, particularly since options for craft beer and wine are limited in the area east of 82nd Avenue.

Welton prides himself on promoting inclusivity among drinkers, ensuring that everyone—from IPA aficionados to wine lovers—finds something they enjoy. The drink menu is a blend of offerings, featuring local hoppy beers alongside esteemed imports like German lagers and Italian wines, all at affordable prices. This blend reflects Welton’s extensive experience in the bar and restaurant industry and his personal tastes.

The décor is simple, with handwritten menus and minimal decorations, creating a homey bar atmosphere where conversations flow easily among patrons. Rather than relying on special events to attract customers, J West excels in fostering genuine connections between its clientele.

Overall, J West Bottle Shop captures the essence of traditional Portland nightlife, emphasizing community and inclusivity at a welcoming neighborhood spot.

Visit: J West Bottle Shop, 8530 SE Foster Road, 503-720-6693, jwestbottleshop.com. Open 3:30–11 pm Tuesday–Sunday.

In the second season of Poker Face, Natasha Lyonne returns as Charlie Cale, the human lie detector who finds herself in increasingly bizarre scenarios as she journeys across the country. This season is packed with unique cases that include encounters with a meth gator, psychopathic children, and even an acid-induced mascot played by B.J. Novak. Additionally, viewers may see the development of a potential love interest for Charlie.

Lyonne, who writes, directs, and executive produces the show, describes it as a joyous project with its "how-catch-’em" format that keeps the audience engaged and in on the mystery. The emphasis is not on the overall plot but on the week’s guest mystery, providing a refreshing change of pace.

Simon Helberg, who portrays FBI agent Luca, praises Lyonne’s vibrant presence, citing her as a blend of Gena Rowlands and Joan Rivers—a mixture that adds a unique flavor to the show. He notes that working alongside her encourages fellow actors to embrace their creativity and strangeness fully.

Among the guest stars this season, Lyonne had a memorable collaboration with Method Man, claiming that he might be a funnier counterpart to stand-up comedian John Mulaney, who also appears this season. Mulaney’s on-set experiences included a humorous incident regarding bed bugs, where Lyonne jokingly provided him with the contact of a singer rather than the director, leading to some unexpected chaos.

The first season of Poker Face garnered considerable acclaim, resulting in a swift renewal for a second season, and even earned Emmy nominations. The latest episodes are already receiving high praise, boasting a perfect score on Rotten Tomatoes. Series creator Rian Johnson attributes much of the show’s success to Lyonne, emphasizing her central role and magnetic energy that brings their collaborative vision to life.

In the spirit of fun, Lyonne brought her dog, Root Beer, along for the promotional shoot, jokingly referring to her as a "nepo baby" due to her star status on set during Lyonne’s previous project, Orange Is the New Black.

Poker Face season 2 is currently streaming on Peacock.

An old Schaefer Beer advertisement boasts that “Schaefer is the one beer to have when you’re having more than one.” However, it leaves an open question: how many beers should one actually consume in a single sitting? The answer varies from person to person, influenced by factors such as body size, metabolism, food intake, and drinking experience. For some, the goal might be a mild buzz, while for others, it could be to get quite inebriated.

Understanding personal limits in alcohol consumption is crucial, yet individuals often find their thresholds through trial and error. Reflecting on my own drinking habits, I realized I’ve never had excessive problems with alcohol, but I’ve noticed a decrease in my tolerance over the years. What used to require more beer to trigger next-day fatigue now takes far less. This self-observation led me to explore what the optimal beer consumption might be for me personally.

While standard recommendations suggest consuming one 12-ounce beer per hour, many drinkers tend to favor pints. For me, as I’ve matured, I’ve found crossing that line of three beers to significantly alter my perception and judgment, often leading to further drinking despite the best of intentions. In response, I’ve decided to set a personal limit of two beers during outings. This helps me avoid fatigue the following day, reinforcing my decision to pace myself thoughtfully.

Interestingly, a conversation with a bartender revealed a shared sentiment that two beers seems to be an optimal number. Historical perspectives, such as those found in “The Sayings of the Desert Fathers”—which suggest that even early monks believed two cups were sufficient—lend some credence to this notion. Perhaps there is wisdom in moderation after all.

Ultimately, finding a personal guideline or sweet spot for beer consumption could be beneficial. For me, that limit is two, allowing for a pleasant experience without the repercussions of overindulgence. What about you? What’s your personal benchmark when it comes to enjoying a beer?

Beer in Wyoming is among the most expensive in the United States, being second only to Alaska. Several factors contribute to these high prices, including tourism, shipping costs, and local pricing strategies employed by bartenders.

The Elkhorn Bar and Trading Post in Bondurant typifies the price differences within the state. A Budweiser costs $3 there, but in nearby Jackson, the price is $6. Ian Schroth, the owner of the Elkhorn, explains that the difficulties of distributing products over long distances to a small population essentially shape the beer pricing landscape in Wyoming.

According to a recent report by Visual Capitalist, the average cost for a 24-pack of beer in Wyoming is $28.78, significantly higher than Illinois, the cheapest state, where it averages $16.43. This disparity is compounded in smaller, more remote areas, where distribution challenges are exacerbated by geographical isolation and the limited return load opportunities for truck drivers.

Chad Taylor of Teton Distributing notes that delivering beer across Wyoming often entails routes as long as 70 miles before reaching the first town. Additionally, environmental factors, such as perilous winds, can further complicate these deliveries. Most beers, like Pabst Blue Ribbon, may travel from California or as far away as New Jersey.

In contrast, companies in states like Colorado benefit from larger chains using beer as a loss leader, resulting in lower prices. Todd Lewis, president of Bison Beverage, underscores that Wyoming lacks this competitive pressure, making it harder to reduce beer prices. Despite the logistical challenges, Lewis maintains that delivering cold beer across the state’s vast expanses is simply the cost of doing business.

The high prices for beer highlight the intricacies of the state’s economy, intertwining tourism demand with distribution realities, which ultimately affects consumers in various parts of Wyoming.

Marlborough’s Lost Shoe Brewing and Roasting Company recently celebrated a significant achievement by winning a gold medal at the World Beer Cup, often dubbed the "Beer Olympics." Their award-winning beer, Size 6, triumphed in the Belgian-style Dubbel category during the competition held on May 1 in Indianapolis.

Lost Shoe co-founder JP Gallagher expressed his excitement over the victory, recalling how he screamed in joy when the announcement was made during the live ceremony. This marked the brewery’s first-ever medal at the World Beer Cup, which is recognized as a premier international beer competition organized by the Brewers Association. The event featured over 200 judges who sampled and awarded medals for more than 8,300 beers from approximately 1,750 breweries worldwide.

Gallagher highlighted that Size 6 is a traditional Belgian-style dubbel ale, characterized by its amber to reddish-brown color and a robust malt profile with caramel and raisin notes, complemented by classic Belgian yeast characteristics. The beer typically has an alcohol content ranging from 6.5% to 7%.

Notably, it was one of just two beers from Massachusetts to win a medal at the competition, with Boston Beer Company taking home a bronze in the "Fruit Wheat Beer" category for its Summer Wheat.

In addition to its recognition, Size 6 is currently available for tasting at Lost Shoe Brewing and can also be purchased in cans. The brewery is poised to celebrate its sixth anniversary on May 10, where both the draft and canned versions of this award-winning beer will be available for fans.