Beer Guys Radio | Craft Beer Podcast

All Tequila is Mezcal, but not all Mezcal is Tequila.In my younger days grabbing a bottle of Mezcal was just taking the fast track to getting gazeboed. The bottle always had a worm in it, or at least I think it did. Exploring Mezcal today has a lot less worms, and a lot more tasty options. Learn a bit about this agave spirit from a couple of newbs.Ibiza and Mallorca (and a handful of other islands) are sick of drunk tourists. To discourage people coming to visit just get ripped, they've made it illegal to buy alcohol after 9:30. There seem to be some loopholes in the law, so let's see how this pans out.From the world of SCIENCE! there's a new gel that can convert alcohol to harmless waste before it hits the liver. It must be "applied" (we're not 100% sure what that means) before you get your drink on.More brewery stats as we dive into which states have the most breweries per capita. Some surprises in the list, and others you'd expect. Also... Austria's Beer Party is bac

Beer and other things for a laid back week.We took a bit of a road trip last weekend to beautiful Cartersville, GA to visit the Savoy Auto Museum. I can't explain the allure of Cartersville to museums, but they have 4 in a town of like 20,000 people. Crazy, right? The Savoy was a fun trip. Lots of classic cars, race cars, and a handful of famous cars from movies - like the Family Truckster from Vacation. Neat.After our museum trip we headed over to Drowned Valley Brewing to try their World Beer Cup medal winning Bartow Brown. Definitely a winner. We also discovered a quirky beer bar with a crazy beer list. All in all our road trip was a successful one.We recap some Cinco de Mayo drinks, make our plans for the upcoming American Craft Beer Week, share some more BrewDog stories, crazy Ballast Point updates, and some science behind the perfect serving temperatures for beer.Thanks for listening to Beer Guys Radio! Your hosts are Tim Dennis and Brian Hewitt with producer Nate "Mo' Mic Nate" Elli

Another CBC is a wrap, and we have some new World Beer Cup winnersThe Craft Brewers Conference wrapped up last week and as part of the festivities the World Beer Cup winners were announced. We're stoked to have a few home state winners in the mix, and we discovered a lot of new breweries that are (apparently) making great beer.In news that we love, VinePair shared some stats on the Booziest Counties in the US. Can you guess who was #1, and who has the most teetotalers?Some interesting beer-adjacent news as the FTC has banned non-competes. We've seen these battles play out in the past when a brewer from a popular brewery heads out on their own, most famously with Toppling Goliath. However, companies will still have some protection of their intellectual property via non-disclosure agreements. Also, some top execs could still be subject to non-competes. There will likely be some fighting on this one, so we'll stay tuned to see where it lands.How much would you pay for an (empty) can of beer?A reco

At least there's beer after Total Nuclear AnnihilationBrian and Nate have disappointed deeply with their lack of excitement for the Fallout TV series. I've played the games for 20ish years and am a huge fan. When the show was announced I was skeptical, like any video game fan when their fav game is "adapted." But they killed it with Fallout. Such an awesome series, and there's plenty of beer.The State of Craft BeerThe Craft Brewers Conference was this week and Brewers Association chief economist gave us the scoop on the current state of craft beer. Overall, it's not great, but it could be worse. One ray of hope, 2023 ended with more net breweries that we had in 2022. So people are still opening, despite all the closures we're seeing. The Top 50 largest craft breweries were also announced. An interesting list for sure.Oh yeah, we did something we haven't done in a long time, had a bottle share! It was great to get the crew together and open some bottles that have been co

Last Saturday was our favorite beer fest of the year. Good Word Brewing's Little Beer Fest.This event brings the best of the very best of low ABV beers to Duluth, GA each Spring. It's been an adventure in previous years with weather ranging from scorching hot to sleet and snow, but this year gave us beautiful sunny skies and temps in the 70s.We love little beers. Pilsners, low alcohol stouts, English Ales, bring it on. It's great to attend an event where you can try nearly every beer and still keep your senses. We did out best to make the rounds.For the show this week we sat down with Todd Boera of Fonta Flora Brewing and Jason Glunt of Salud Cerveceria. We chatted a good bit about what makes a good tap list and low alcohol beers, of course.We talk about adding fruit to beer and Todd tells Tim why his opinion on the matter is wrong, in the nicest way possible. We talk about breaking out of a mold of being known for a certain style of beer when you brew across the spectrum.Jason shares his Miche

Beer Families, Closing Times, and a BankruptcyGlad to be back to it this week with all the beery talk we can handle.You know we dabble in beer cocktails and Brian finally gets to try one he's been wanting for a while and shares how that turned out.Remember when all of those crazy light macro beers came out making a big deal out of how few calories they had? Well Molson Coors says the consumer is now more concerned with lower ABV than calories, so they're making some changes to showcase that.Beer families seem to be the thing these days. Both Voodoo Ranger and Two Hearted have had a family of beers for a while, and SweetWater announced they're going that route with their flagship 420 brand. Look for new brews soon.We've talked about tinned seafood a lot but if we want you all to join us on this adventure we figured we better offer some actual recommendations. So this week we share our first one and ponder some beer pairings.In news that was totally expected, D9 Brewing has filed for bankrup

Exploring the Future of Beer and Beyond with Anderson Valley BrewingAnderson Valley Brewing president and CEO Kevin McGee joins us this week to discuss NA beer, FOMO, keeping it classic, and sustainability. The world of beer is constantly evolving, and we dive into some of the exciting trends and hidden gems that are shaping the industry. NA Beer Stats and Future: A Sobering RiseNon-alcoholic (NA) beers are no longer the afterthought at the party. Thanks to a growing health-conscious population and innovative brewing techniques, NA beers are experiencing a surge in popularity. The global NA beer market is expected to reach a staggering $40 billion by 2033. This trend suggests a future where delicious, alcohol-free options are readily available for everyone. But others aren't impressed with NA beer's growth, so is it "the next big thing," or not?Beer Solera: A History Steeped in TraditionFor a taste of history, let's explore the Solera method. This unique aging process involves stackin

Ale Max Day - A celebration of Air and aleMuch like craft beer, sneaker fans love to see cool collaborations. And much like craft beer fans, they'll wait in crazy long lines and search local shops and the internet to get that elusive pair.Atlanta's Ale Sharpton teamed up with marketing magician Craig Stroud to bring the culture of craft beer and sneakerheads together and Ale Max Day was born. 2023's inaugural even feature an intimate gathering and collaborative beer with Decatur, Georgia's Inner Voice. This year they're kicking it up a notch with a larger release party at Monday Night Brewing's Garage location followed by a release with Bearded Iris in Nashville. Ale and Craig share the origin story of Ale Max, what's happening now, and their plans for the future.Ale Max 1 MAX IPAWe can't forget the beer! A juicy and hazy NEIPA hopped with Citra Cryo, Mosaic Incognito, Nectaron Cryo, Riwaka, and Strata. Expect big citrus and melon notes on this one. If this is your kind

WTF is Bapple?Bapple. Busch Light Apple that is. Apparently this abomination has quite a cult following.  It's come and gone over the years and people are hoarding it when they can find it and paying crazy prices online.  We had no idea.Even crazier?  R.E.M.'s Out of Time turned 33 this week.  Making us feel old and stuff.  For those in Atlanta you likely heard lots of R.E.M. on 99x back in the day.  One of the last great radio stations.   99x is back, and they've got a collaboration beer with Mutation Brewing.  99Xtra West Coast Pilsner.  A perfect pairing for an iconic album anniversary.More St. Patrick's Day news, Savannah's SPD parade is turning 200! By our math that means it started in 1824.  Madness.Shifting gears, we'll head west to Wyoming where craft beer lovers are celebrating a big legal win. We'll break down the details and what it means for the future of suds in the Cowboy State.Over on Beer Twitter there was some hot glassware talk this week.  Discussions of th

A pint of plain is your only man...Drinking holidays are the best holidays.  St. Patrick's Day is a drinking holiday now, but it wasn't always that way.  The story is kind of crazy.Join us as we talk about the lore and legends of St. Patrick and St. Patrick's Day while we sample some Irish beers and whiskey.The Beer (and Whiskey) ListGuinness & Smithwick's - Blacksmith (“Pint of Special”)StillFire - O’Farrell’s Irish Red (Red Ale)Sullivan’s - Black Marble (Dry Irish Stout)Sullivan’s - Maltings Irish Ale (Red Ale)Fat Orange Cat - Baby Leprechauns (Session IPA)Evil Twin - Even More Irish Jesus (Dry Irish Stout)Guinness Foreign Extra StoutSlane Irish WhiskeyWhistle Pig 10, 11, and 12 (OK, not Irish, but tasty.)TRIVIA! Order a ‘Black Bulldog’ in Malaysia and you’ll be handed a bottle of Guinness Foreign Extra Stout. This is because the first export bottlers of Guinness used to add their own symbols to the label to distinguish their bottles and exclusive territories. There were dozens of di

Wooden Robot co-founder dies in brewery fallWe send our sincere condolences to the family of Dan Wade and his brewery family at Wooden Robot.  Dan tragically lost his life in a fall at the brewery last week.  If you'd like to help support his wife and newborn son with immediate and long-term expenses you can give to the GoFundMe here.The weather here has been crazy lately.  This would be expected if it was the end of March or beginning of April, but this is (or was) February.  We've had temps hit nearly 70°.  The madness brought storms through here and got Brian excited to see a tornado.  A sentiment only expressed by those that haven't been through a tornado, or maybe storm chasers.  Brian is in Group A.  I brag about my new fancy pants bath towels.  Seriously, they're really nice.  Y'all drop me a line if you want to come by for a shower some time.AB InBev brewers were going strike, but they didn'tSo, this story updated right after we recorded the show.  ABI brewers were close

We sat down with our friends Zach and Cliff at Truck & Tap along with our new friend Tiffany Dillon of Gwen Tajz wine bar.  We poked some beers, we mulled some wines (wine wine and barleywine) and we talked about serving traditionally cooler beverages warmer.  Luckily, when we recorded the show it was a seasonally-appropriate cooler temperature, the only cool day in the last couple of weeks actually.While the image of a frosty mug overflowing with cold beer might be the first thing that comes to mind, the history of enjoying warmed brews stretches back centuries. Tonight, we're venturing beyond the icebox and exploring the comforting world of hot drinks, with a special focus on the surprising (and potentially delicious) realm of hot-poked beers.A Toasty Tradition: Hot Drinks Through the AgesFrom mulled wines enjoyed by medieval nobility to steaming cups of tea that fueled revolutions, hot beverages have long held cultural and practical significance. In colder climates, they provided warmth and comfor

Disclaimer: Ride the Clydesdales at your own riskTouchdown for Beer Commercials: The episode kicks off with a high-energy discussion about Super Bowl Sunday and its iconic beer commercials. Budweiser, Bud Light, Coors Light, and Michelob Ultra all vie for our attention, but according to the latest buzz, Michelob Ultra emerged as the top-selling brew of the big game. It's a fascinating peek into the battle for marketing supremacy in the world of sports and suds.Busch Gardens & Sweet Memories: From the bright lights of the stadium, the conversation takes a nostalgic turn with a visit to Busch Gardens. Memories of childhood trips come flooding back, along with a mention of Eagle Brand snacks. This unexpected pairing sparks a discussion about branding strategies and the strange yet sometimes successful partnerships that emerge in the food and beverage world.Monster Shakes Up the Craft Beer Scene: Speaking of unexpected turns, the episode dives into the surprising news of Monster Energy eliminating Cigar

The stovepipe is gonna take over the world.If you follow us on Twitter, errr... X, then you've seen the posts for #LongBeerFriday.  That's Brian's doing.  He loves a good stovepipe and he's finding more beers in these 19.2 oz. cans.  North Coast just announced their Old Rasputin RIS is coming out in a stovepipe can.  Dangerous.With the "Big Game" this weekend we explore some stats on NFL fans and their drinking habits.  Any guesses on which teams have the drunkest fans?  Not to leave out the places without an NFL team, we also take a look at which state has the drunkest residents.  I wonder if there's any correlation.We've another Anchor Brewing update.  The Anchor Union isn't in the mix any more to buy the brewery, but they aren't totally out.  We'll keep an eye on what develops here.The closures keep on keeping on.  New Belgium announced this week they were closing their San Francisco brewery and taproom.  Based on the surprise from some San Fran reside

We made it to FOUR HUNDRED episodes.  Whew.This week marks the 400th episode of Beer Guys Radio. Crazy. We've been pretty steady with the show since we launched in January 2016, and here it is 2024. Thanks for joining us for the ride.We open up with a little WTF action as Truly launched a Hot Wing Sauce Hard Seltzer "just in time" for the Super Bowl. Maybe it would pair well with our cellared Hormel Chili Cheese Beer?Just like everything else the average price for a case of craft beer is up, and I learned there are several categories of craft beer at retail, all the way up to Apex Craft.Bids are in for Anchor Brewing and it's expected a winner will be announced soon. The Anchor Union is still in the mix but no word on where they stand in the race.We share some thoughts on Dry January and hop water, now that it's all behind us, and thoughts on what breweries can do to keep people coming in during those challenging months. We definitely support giving your body a break, but we sure don&

Live from the Atlanta Cask Ale Tasting!ACAT has become a tradition for us.  We've gone every year since we launched and always look forward to it.  This year's event, the 18th, was no exception.  Plenty of awesome cask beers and great people.  It was actually pretty packed, which was nice to see with all the negative talk about craft beer and beer festivals.In keeping with tradition we sat down with the event organizer, Owen Ogletree of Brewtopia Events.  We chatted about cask ale and why you'll sometimes see "Ale, Beer, and Stout" mentioned together as though they are distinct things. (They are, or they were.)  We talk about beer foam, lacing, and how fests like ACAT inspire homebrewers.Georgia Craft Brewers Guild executive director Joseph Cortez sits down with us to talk beer laws and the current bill up for consideration, knows as The FOAM Act, SB163 would provide various relief for brewers in relation to self-distribution, sales limits, franchise law, and direct donations to chari

Beer Mints and Potato ChipsMiller Lite always has some interesting swag.  For Dry January it's mints that are supposed to taste like Miller Lite, which I guess is a good thing.  More my taste (maybe?) are potato chips that taste like a citrus IPA.  Honestly, that doesn't sound great, but I would try them.AB InBev does ParisAs a beer sponsor backs out  in protest of Russian and Belarussian athletes being allowed to participate in the olympics, AB InBev steps in to be the beer sponsor.  Good for them, they always do make sound business decisions.  Mikkeller goes macro and our favorite gueuze scales backCarlsberg has acquired a minority stake in Mikkeller.  They wanted to buy them outright, but Mikkeller wasn't up for that.  More sadder for us, Drie Fonteinen announced team changes and the climate of craft beer means they'll be scaling back production.  Hold on with all you've got, 3F.Uber drops DrizlyAfter acquiring the company for over $1 Billion just a few years ago, Uber is shutterin

We've always been supporters of Dry January.  We love beer, but we know you need to take it easy sometimes and if you want to take January to purge your liver, we're all about it.  But... a side effect of that is that our pubs and breweries have an even slower month in a month that's already traditionally slow.With that in mind, Jeff Alworth at Beervana suggested we make it #PubJanuary.  You can still stay dry if you choose to, but go out to your pubs (or breweries, if appropriate) and have a meal with some friends or family.  Show them love, give them business, we know it's a tough time out there and they need all the support they can get.  We're totally on board with that.New Jersey beer bill heads to governorWe've updated this throughout the year and it looks like a bill was reached that made everyone, including the governor, happy.  It passed nearly unanimously in both houses - some chose to abstain from voting, but everyone that did vote was in support.  Now, it's heade

Eight years of talking about beersThis week marks the 8th anniversary of Beer Guys Radio.  Cheers to us.  So much has changed over the last 8 years it seems like we've been at it a long longer.  Cheers to the next 8! It's Dry JanuaryThe annual holiday of people deciding they need to chill on their drinking.  If you're playing along we've got some recommendations for you.  It's a bit more controversial this year.  Several brewers have noted that craft beer sales are down (they are) and that January is one of the tougher months for your bars and breweries.  They need you now more than ever. We share an update on the lawsuit against Treee House Brewing, some news about hops and their ability to combat Alzheimer's, talk travel for beer, and how to get more Gen Z'ers in your taproom.Thanks for listening to Beer Guys Radio! Your hosts are Tim Dennis and Brian Hewitt with producer Nate "Mo' Mic Nate" Ellingson and occasional appearances from Becky Smalls.Subscribe to

Looking back on the big styles and big stories of 2023.We've almost made it through another year.  Whew.  Seems like they hasn't been a ton of sunshine and puppies for craft beer since before the plague and 2023 definitely brought its share of challenges.The Most Loved StylesWe'll start off with some non-negative news and recap the top rated beer styles per Untappd.  I'm a bit surprised here, but I talk it through and see why these styles landed where they did.Is the Bubble Bursting?The big Bubble Burst has been predicted for several years now for craft breweries.  We're not really seeing a bubble burst, but we are seeing, as Bart Watson of the Brewers Association put it, market correction.  Brewery closures, sell offs, bankruptcies, and mergers were the norm this year with a few lawsuits thrown in for good measure.Bud Light BlunderAnother story that stayed in the news for most of the year.  This one made everyone mad, and AB chose not to take sides on either front and just move on.