Beer-articles 1011

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.

The Beer Store has announced a new wave of closures, with nine locations set to shut down on August 24, bringing the total to 40 stores closing in the coming weeks. This decision follows earlier closures scheduled for July 6, July 20, and August 10, as well as five locations that were recently closed on June 15.

Ozzie Ahmed, vice president of retail at The Beer Store, stated that closing a retail store is never an easy decision and highlighted the importance of these stores and employees in the community. He pointed to the changing alcohol marketplace in Ontario as a significant factor in their decision to modernize operations and focus on efficiently selling beer and managing recycling services.

The specific locations closing on August 24 include:

• Toronto — 772 The Queensway
• Toronto — 720 Spadina Avenue
• Scarborough — 1089 Kingston Road
• Richmond Hill — 8825 Yonge Street
• Bothwell — 160 Oak Street
• Blind River — 115 Causley Street
• Garson — 3098 Falconbridge Hwy.
• Manotick — 1160 Beaverwood Road
• Powassan — 760 Main Street
• Atikokan — 711 Mackenzie Street East

The rapid expansion of Ontario’s alcohol sales to include convenience and grocery stores selling beer, with the exception of spirits, has significantly impacted The Beer Store’s business model and has led to these closures.

More than 150 independent breweries in New Jersey are gearing up for the inaugural New Jersey Craft Beer Week from July 13 to 20, a statewide initiative aimed at boosting visibility and support for the craft beer industry.

Organized by the Brewers Guild of New Jersey, this campaign will include a variety of events such as tap takeovers, trivia nights, food trucks, and live music at breweries across the state, including North, Central, South Jersey, and the Jersey Shore. The Guild, representing policy interests of independent breweries and brewpubs, unveiled this initiative as their first coordinated public campaign to promote the state’s often underestimated craft beer scene.

New Jersey, despite housing numerous breweries, ranks low in brewery count per capita and beer consumption. These statistics highlight an opportunity for growth and awareness in a state that is currently lagging behind in both access to and knowledge of its craft beer offerings.

The timing of this campaign comes as the industry is emerging from a challenging period characterized by rising operational costs and regulatory hurdles related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since 2019, New Jersey has seen a decline in the number of breweries, dropping from around 180 to roughly 150, with a significant number of closures occurring since mid-2020.

The craft beer industry in New Jersey saw initial growth following the state’s law changes in 2012, which allowed more extensive production and distribution for microbreweries and brewpubs. However, the industry faced setbacks in 2019 due to new regulations imposed on breweries by the state’s Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC), which introduced restrictions on events and food sales as a way to appease full retail license holders like bars and restaurants.

As advocates for local breweries noted the struggles posed by these restrictions, recent legislative changes have begun to ease regulations, allowing breweries more flexibility in operations and promoting local craft beer enjoyment.

The New Jersey Craft Beer Week aims to reconnect locals with breweries in their communities, encouraging residents to explore the craft beer offerings available right in their own neighborhoods. The Guild hopes this event will be the catalyst for rediscovering the state’s vibrant craft beer landscape, with specific launch events at various participating locations on July 13.

For more information about New Jersey Craft Beer Week, including a listing of participating breweries and events, you can visit the Brewers Guild of New Jersey.