Craft Beer Storm

Vienna-Style Lager (Description courtesy of Beer Advocate)Named after the city in which it originated, a traditional Vienna Lager is brewed using a three step decoction boiling process. Decoction Mashing is a way to conduct multi-step mashes without adding additional water or applying heat to the Mash Tun. It involves removing about a third of the Mash to another pot where it is heated to conversion temperature, then boiled and returned to the Mash Tun. Many brewers believe that the boiling of the mash gives the beer a flavor profile that cannot be achieved otherwise.Munich, Pilsner, Vienna, and dextrin malts are used, as well wheat in some cases. Its color reliably falls between pale amber and medium amber—there should be a reddish hue to examples of this style. Noble hops are used subtly, with the resulting beer having a crisp quality, a toasty flavor and some residual caramel-like sweetness. Vienna Lager and German Märzen have much in common. Although Austrian in origin and rare these days, some classic examples come from Mexico, such as Dos Equis Amber, the result of late 19th century brewers immigrating from Austria. -Color – Copper to reddish-brown-Clarity: Appearance should be bright; chill haze should not be present-Perceived Malt Aroma & Flavor: Characterized by malty aroma and light malt sweetness, which should have a lightly toasted malt character.-Perceived Hop Aroma & Flavor: Very low to low, derived from noble-type hops.-Perceived Bitterness: Low to medium-low, clean and crisp.-Body: Medium-ABV: 3.8%-4.3%-Glassware: Pilsener Glass - Typically a tall, slender and tapered 12-ounce glass-Examples (courtesy of Beer Advocate)(https://www.beeradvocate.com)Samuel Adams Boston Lager | Boston Beer Company (Samuel Adams)Brewed by: Boston Beer Company (Samuel Adams) Massachusetts, United Statessamueladams.com Style: Vienna Lager Alcohol by volume (ABV): 5.00% Notes / Commercial Description: Our original beer is full-flavored with a balance of malty sweetness contrasted by hop spiciness and a smooth finish.Did you know that Jim Koch tastes each batch of Boston Lager to make sure that it reaches our high standards? Won 12 medals at the Great American Beer Festival, 7 of which were gold.Eliot Ness | Great Lakes Brewing Co.Brewed by: Great Lakes Brewing Co. Ohio, United Statesgreatlakesbrewing.com Style: Vienna Lager Alcohol by volume (ABV): 6.10% Notes / Commercial Description: Admittedly, it’s a bit of a paradox to name our Amber Lager for history’s most famous agent of prohibition. But it’s a smooth, malty (and dare we say, arresting?) paradox.FLAVOR - Almost untouchably smooth--armed with lightly toasted malts and noble hops.WORLD BEER CHAMPIONSHIPS12-Time Award Winner Since 1995 (Gold, Silver)Subscribe to Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2*** A Top 20 Podcast in Food on iTunes ***Michael Potorti is the Host of Craft Beer Storm and Founder/Brewer at Beara Brewing Co. in Portsmouth, NHMichael PotortiFounder/BrewerHost of "Craft Beer Storm" Podcastmichael@craftbeerstorm.commichael@bearairishbrew.com*** Come visit our brewery for some delicious local craft brew! ***Beara Brewing Co.2800 Lafayette RoadPortsmouth, NH 03801

Michael speaks with Pam Catoe, Regional editor of Porch Drinking.com and member of the Pink Boots Society about the Austin, Texas beer scene and beyond.Inspired by innumerable nights spent with old friends, cold beers, and digressing topics of discussion, PorchDrinking.com is aimed to conjure that exact type of atmosphere. This is a blog for the porch drinkers, the every drinkers. Topics can range anywhere from what we love to drink, when we love to drink it, and our favorite breweries to how great a movie mashup of Ghostbusters and the Sandlot would be, whether Ben Gibbard should reform the Postal Service as the United Parcels Service, and of course Kentucky basketball. The main goal is to help build the beer community and do so while having an absolute blast. We don’t claim to be experts on any topic in particular, but we love tasting it, talking about it, sharing it in the most outrageous, entertaining and occasionally educational manner possible. Welcome to our porch, grab a drink, take a seat!Who Are the Pink Boots Society®?We are the female movers and shakers in the beer industry. We get the beer brewed and fermented with the highest possible quality. We also own breweries, package the beer, design beers, serve beers, write about beer, and cover just about any aspect of beer, and we are all women. Most importantly, we teach each other what we know through our own seminar programs, and we help each other advance our beer careers by raising money for educational scholarships.P—PassionI—Integrity & InspirationN—NetworkingK—KnowledgeB—Beer & BrewingO—OpportunityO—Open Exchange of IdeasT—TeachS—Successhttps://www.porchdrinking.com/https://twitter.com/PamCraftBeerATXhttps://www.craftbeeraustin.com/women-in-craft-beer-pink-boots-society-central-texas/Subscribe to Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2*** A Top 20 Podcast in Food on iTunes ***Michael Potorti is the Host of Craft Beer Storm and Founder/Brewer at Beara Brewing Co. in Portsmouth, NHMichael PotortiFounder/BrewerHost of "Craft Beer Storm" Podcastmichael@craftbeerstorm.commichael@bearairishbrew.com*** Come visit our brewery for some delicious local craft brew! ***Beara Brewing Co.2800 Lafayette RoadPortsmouth, NH 03801Tel. (857) 342-3272 www.bearairishbrew.com Like us onInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bearairishbrew/?hl=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BearaIrishBrewingCo Twitter: https://twitter.com/BearaIrishBrew Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beara-brewing-co-30776075/**LISTEN to our Craft Beer Storm Podcast and share with a friend**Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278

Craft Brew News – 6/7/19(courtesy of Brewbound.com)NFL Allows Players to be Featured in Beer AdsThe National Football League will now allow its players to be featured in beer ads, according to Morning Consult, citing a league email. The news comes months after the NBA and MLB lifted restrictions on active players to be featured in beer ads.However, the NFL has put restrictions on its players’ participation, including:only active players can be featured in the ads;the ads cannot imply players are endorsing the products;if a company wants to feature more than one player in an advertisement, it must use a minimum of six players in the ad.players also must be featured in uniform in action shots using “licensed Associated Press” photos.The NFL also eased restrictions on wine and spirits companies, allowing them to become “official” sponsors of its franchises. Although wine and hard liquor companies will be allowed to use team logos on packaging, they will not be able to use players in their advertisements.Details of CBA’s Kona Lawsuit SettlementA month after Craft Brew Alliance agreed to settle a years-long class action lawsuit over alleged “false and deceptive advertising” of its Kona Brewing beer brand, the Portland, Oregon-based craft beer company has detailed the settlement agreement in a May 23 SEC filing.As part of the agreement, CBA will pay up to $10 to customers without receipts and as much as $20 to those with a proof of purchase. CBA has said it expects to incur costs of $4.7 million to settle the dispute.According to the original complaint, CBA “intentionally” misled consumers ito believing Kona products are made in Hawaii. Although CBA operates a production facility in Hawaii and produces thousands of barrels on the island, a majority of Kona beer sold in the continental U.S. is brewed at facilities in Portland, Oregon; Portsmouth, New Hampshire; and at an Anheuser-Busch brewery in Fort Collins, Colorado.Deschutes Brewery Launches New Brand Campaign(Check out Episode # 42 where we interview Deschutes BrewMaster Brian Faivre)Deschutes Brewery is attempting to position itself as “the beer of choice in the land of recreational cannabis,” the company said in a press release. The Bend, Oregon-headquartered craft brewery released a series of videos and advertisements earlier this week as part of its new “It Comes with the Territory” campaign.According to Deschutes vice president of marketing Neal Stewart, the company is “drawing attention to the healthy tension between craft beer and cannabis.”“People are going to enjoy recreational cannabis, but we want to remind them that this is still one of, if not the best place on Earth to enjoy a beer and Deschutes helped put the craft brewing industry on the map,” he said.No-Li and Goose Island Butt Heads Over ‘Born & Raised’ Name(Check out Episode # 25 where we interview Matt Jimenez, Head Brewer at Goose Island China in Shanghai )The Chicago Tribune chronicled attempts by No-Li Brewhouse founder John Bryant to resolve a dispute with Anheuser-Busch-owned Goose Island, which recently began using the name “Born + Raised” for a new, draft-only ale that is exclusively available in Chicago.Spokane, Washington-based No-Li has used the “Born & Raised” name for its flagship IPA for the last seven years. He claims No-Li has “first-use” rights to the name. However, his efforts to resolve the issue have been rebuffed by Goose Island leaders.“I don’t think we should have to give Anheuser-Busch a brand that’s established since 2012,” he told the Tribune.For his part, Goose Island president Toss Ahsmann said he’s confident the Chicago craft brewery can use the name since No-Li doesn’t own a federal trademark on the name.

Dortmunder or German-Style OktoberfestA.Subcategory: Dortmunder/European-Style Export(Description courtesy of Beer Advocate)Sometimes referred to as a “Dortmunder export,” the European-Style Export has the malt-forward flavor and sweetness of a German-style Helles, but the bitter base of a German-style Pilsener. This lager is all about balance, with medium hop character and firm but low malt sweetness. Look for toasted malt flavors and spicy floral hop aromas.-Color – Straw to Deep Golden-Clarity: Appearance should be bright; chill haze should not be present- Perceived Malt Aroma & Flavor: Sweet malt character should be low and should not be caramelly- Hop Aroma and Flavor: Very low to low, derived from noble-type hops.Perceived Bitterness : Medium -Four Noble HopsoHallertauer Mittelfrüh.oTettnang.oSpalt.oSaaz.-Body: Medium-ABV: 4.0%-4.8%Glassware: Pilsner Glass or Pokal - Typically a tall, slender and tapered 12-ounce glass, shaped like a trumpet at times, that captures the sparkling effervesces and colors of a Pils while maintaining its head. A Pokal is a European Pilsner glass with a stem. Benefits: Showcases color, clarity and carbonation. Promotes head retention.B. Subcategory: German-Style Oktoberfest/WiesnToday's Oktoberfest beers are similar to Dortmunder/European-Style Export beers-Color – Straw to Golden-Clarity: Appearance should be bright; chill haze should not be present-Perceived Malt Aroma & Flavor: Sweet maltiness is low to medium-low-Hop Aroma and Flavor: Very low to low-Perceived Bitterness : Very low to low and in balance with the low sweet maltiness-Body: Medium-ABV: 4.0%-4.8%-Examples (courtesy of Beer Advocate)(https://www.beeradvocate.com)Dortmunder Gold | Great Lakes Brewing Co.Brewed by: Great Lakes Brewing Co. Ohio, United Statesgreatlakesbrewing.com Style: European Export / Dortmunder Alcohol by volume (ABV): 5.80% Notes / Commercial Description: Yes, it's known for winning medals worldwide. But locally, it's known as "Dort," our flagship lager that humbly maintains its smooth, balanced (and charmingly unpretentious) ways.A smooth, award-winning (and deceptively unassuming) balance of sweet malt and dry hop flavors.World Beer Championships16-Time Medal Winner Since 1994 (World Champion, Gold, Silver)Great American Beer Festival Awards1990 Gold Medal WinnerJinx Proof | 3 Floyds Brewing Co.Brewed by: 3 Floyds Brewing Co. Indiana, United States3floyds.com Style: European Export / Dortmunder Alcohol by volume (ABV): 5.10% Notes / Commercial Description: This refreshing continental-style pils has a light body combined with a pronounced noble hop aroma and a crisp dry finish. This is the perfect beer for easy, flavorful drinking. Brewed in collaboration with our friends at Jinx Proof tattoo in Washington, D.C.35 IBUSubscribe to Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2*** A Top 20 Podcast in Food on iTunes ***Michael Potorti is the Host of Craft Beer Storm and Founder/Brewer at Beara Brewing Co. in Portsmouth, NHMichael PotortiFounder/BrewerHost of "Craft Beer Storm" Podcastmichael@craftbeerstorm.com

Michael speaks with Amber Lambke, Founder/Owner of Maine Grains about working with local farmers and the Community to provide Brewers, Bakers and Chefs with quality grain.Maine Grains specializes in freshly milled, organic and heritage grains for stoneground flour and rolled oats. We sell to bakers, brewers, and chefs throughout the Northeast. The gristmill is also home to the Maine Grains Dry Goods Store, The Miller’s Table cafe, Happyknits yarn shop, the Skowhegan Farmer's Market, and the Maine Grain Alliance teaching kitchen. The Miller’s Table at Maine Grains is a farm-to-table cafe celebrating the cultural cuisine of central Maine, influenced by our location on the "Old Canada Road". We capitalize on our location in Skowhegan’s Maine Grains grist mill to showcase the all-natural and certified-organic whole-grain and sifted flours, oats, wheat berries, rye, cornmeal, buckwheat, and more, processed on site and sold throughout the northeast under the Maine Grains label. Maine Grains products are the central theme around which our menu is organized.https://www.mainegrains.com/Subscribe to Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2*** A Top 20 Podcast in Food on iTunes ***Michael Potorti is the Host of Craft Beer Storm and Founder/Brewer at Beara Brewing Co. in Portsmouth, NHMichael PotortiFounder/BrewerHost of "Craft Beer Storm" Podcastmichael@craftbeerstorm.commichael@bearairishbrew.com*** Come visit our brewery for some delicious local craft brew! ***Beara Brewing Co.2800 Lafayette RoadPortsmouth, NH 03801Tel. (857) 342-3272 www.bearairishbrew.com Like us onInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bearairishbrew/?hl=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BearaIrishBrewingCo Twitter: https://twitter.com/BearaIrishBrew Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beara-brewing-co-30776075/**LISTEN to our Craft Beer Storm Podcast and share with a friend**Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278Craft Beer Storm You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp3PVuCGmywNWlGFh0N0ukg?view_as=subscriberCraft Beer Storm Podcast Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/podcast-center-la-2/craft-beer-stormCraft Beer Storm Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/craftbeerstorm/Craft Beer Storm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelpotorti/

Craft Brew News 5/31/19(Courtesy of Brewbound.com)New Jersey ABC Sets Restrictions on the Number of Events Craft Breweries Can HostThe New Jersey Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) issued a revised special ruling earlier this week aimed at limiting the number of annual events breweries can host in their taprooms.Under the ruling issued Tuesday, the ABC said the state’s craft breweries can hold up to 25 “special events,” 25 “social affairs,” and 52 “private parties” annually inside their taprooms. Additionally, breweries are now allowed to sell their beer at 12 events a year outside of their taprooms.Citing concerns of bar and restaurant owners, the ABC first announced plans to impose restrictions on the number of events craft breweries could host in September 2018. The agency suspended that ruling days later amid pressure from craft brewers, state lawmakers and New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy.In Tuesday’s revised ruling, the ABC said the new guidelines are an effort to “balance the concerns” of the state’s 100 licensed craft breweries with those of the state’s 6,000 retail licenses in an effort to create “stability” and “foster realistic competition.”Leaders from both of the state’s trade groups — the New Jersey Brewers Association and the Brewers Guild of New Jersey — called the latest ruling a “mixed bag.”Brewers Guild of New Jersey executive director Eric Orlando said while the ruling gives craft brewers some new privileges, it also adds more restrictive provisions.New Jersey Brewers Association executive director Alexis Degan said her organization plans to lobby lawmakers to remove the limits on the number of events breweries can host in their taprooms, as well as repeal other “antiquated” liquor laws.Sierra Nevada Asks Breweries to Honor Camp Fire PledgesSierra Nevada Brewing is still waiting for more than half of the breweries that agreed to brew Resilience IPA and donate the proceeds to the relief efforts of last year’s Camp Fire wildfire to submit their donations, according to a company letter.“Though we have and continue to do good work to get our community back on its feet, this is a long-term process,” Sierra Grossman, brewery co-owner and daughter of founder Ken Grossman, wrote in the letter, which was obtained by WorstBeerBlog. “Those funds you pledged are critical to continue our uphill battle.”Nearly 1,500 craft breweries signed up to brew Resilience IPA as part of Sierra Nevada’s efforts to raise money for the victims of Camp Fire wildfire, which killed 85 people, displaced tens of thousands of residents, and destroyed more than 18,800 structures.Sierra Nevada told Fortune that it is “actively working” with breweries “to establish realistic timelines for donations.”“We are however hopeful that those funds will be received as soon as possible so we can continue funding this essential work,” the company told the outlet.Earlier this year, Sierra Nevada estimated that the Resilience campaign could potentially raise as much as $15 million if the project’s 1,484 breweries produced to their stated commitment levels.Ex-MillerCoors VP Sentenced to Prison TimeFormer MillerCoors vice president of sales David Colletti was sentenced to 3.5 years in prison for bilking the country’s second-largest beer manufacturer out of more than $8 million over the course of a decade as part of a fraudulent scheme, according to Law 360.Colletti, who reached a plea deal in 2016, told authorities he recruited people to act as vendors on more than 200 phony invoices. Those fake invoices were then submitted to MillerCoors, which paid Colletti’s phony vendors, who split the proceeds with Colletti.Colletti had worked for MillerCoors for more than 30 years.Wormtown Brewery to Add 2nd...

Munich-Style Helles(Description courtesy of Beer Advocate)“Helles” means “pale in color,” as these beers are often golden. The German-style Helles lager is a bit rounder or fuller-bodied than light lager and even all-malt pilsners. Helles lager beers offer a touch of sweetness that balance a measurable addition of spicy German hop flavor and light bitterness. The malt character is soft and bready, making it a terrific complement to light dishes such as salad or fresh shellfish, like clams. Clean and crisp, this is a refreshing beer with substance. -Color – Pale to Golden-Clarity: Appearance should be bright; chill haze should not be presentPerceived Malt Aroma & Flavor: Malt aroma and flavor are pronounced. Low levels of yeast-produced sulfur aromas and flavors may be present. Malt character is sometimes bready and suggestive of lightly toasted malted barley. There should be no caramel character.- Hop Aroma and Flavor and Bitterness Hop aroma is not perceived to low. Hop flavor is very low to low, derived from noble-type hops.-Four Noble HopsoHallertauer Mittelfrüh.oTettnang.oSpalt.oSaaz.-Body: Medium-ABV: 4.8%-5.6%-Glassware: Flute Glass - The world of champagne lends elegance to certain types of beer. Long and narrow bodies ensure that carbonation doesn't dissipate too quickly and showcase a lively carbonation or sparkling color. Stems will often be a bit shorter than the traditional champagne glass, but not necessarily. Benefits: Enhances and showcases carbonation. Releases volatiles quickly for a more intense upfront aroma. Examples (courtesy of Beer Advocate)(https://www.beeradvocate.com)Hofbräu Original | Hofbräuhaus MünchenBrewed by: Hofbräuhaus München Germanyhofbraeuhaus.de Style: German Helles Alcohol by volume (ABV): 5.10% Notes / Commercial Description: Sitting together on long wooden benches, enjoying pretzels and hearty snacks and treats, feeling that Bavarian hospitality and camaraderie, the perfect service donned in smart-looking traditional costume – nearly complete but what absolutely can't be missing? A liter of Hofbräu Original! Luminous golden yellow with foamy white crown – you can already taste the refreshment: Slightly malty, full-bodied, mature and with an elegant finish. A beer with character for connoisseurs with character.Victory Helles Lager | Victory Brewing CompanyBrewed by: Victory Brewing Company - Downingtown Pennsylvania, United Statesvictorybeer.com Style: German Helles Alcohol by volume (ABV): 4.80% Notes / Commercial Description: Definition of drinkable. Simply crafted with German malt, hops, and yeast this beer provides balance between noble hop character, clean fermentation, and some of the best malt in the world.Subscribe to Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2*** A Top 20 Podcast in Food on iTunes ***Michael Potorti is the Host of Craft Beer Storm and Founder/Brewer at Beara Brewing Co. in Portsmouth, NHMichael PotortiFounder/BrewerHost of "Craft Beer Storm" Podcastmichael@craftbeerstorm.commichael@bearairishbrew.com*** Come visit our brewery for some delicious local craft brew! ***Beara Brewing Co.2800 Lafayette RoadPortsmouth, NH 03801Tel. (857) 342-3272

Michael interviews Kate Kone, Author of "What's Brewing in New England: A Guide to Brewpubs and Microbreweries" about the beer scene in Maine and beyond.Kate Cone has a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing, is a freelance writer and the author of "What's Brewing in New England: A Guide to Brewpubs and Microbreweries," published by Downeast Publications in 1997 and completely updated in 2016. She has been a foodie since age 8, when her dad taught her how to make coffee and an omelet, lifelong skills for happy eating.Published author with Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing earned in 2008. Author of What's Brewing in New England: A Guide to Brewpubs and Craft Breweries (Down East Books, 2016). Freelance writing for Waterville Sentinel/Kennebec Journal, Maine Brew Guide, Bangor Daily News and tourist pieces for other publications.Juris Doctor prepared me for a long career in the legal field as a title examiner. I have also worked with litigation partners doing a full range of tasks, from client intake and handling to drafting discovery and writing briefs.Specialties: Published works: Book: "What's Brewing in New England: A Guide to Brewpubs & Microbreweries, Down East Books, 1997 and completely new edition, 2016;Article: "E.E. Cummings," Oxford Encyclopedia of American Literature, 2004;Fiction: Excerpts of novel in progress, No One to Bury.https://whatsbrewing.bangordailynews.com/author/katecone/Subscribe to Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2*** A Top 20 Podcast in Food on iTunes ***Michael Potorti is the Host of Craft Beer Storm and Founder/Brewer at Beara Brewing Co. in Portsmouth, NHMichael PotortiFounder/BrewerHost of "Craft Beer Storm" Podcastmichael@craftbeerstorm.commichael@bearairishbrew.com*** Come visit our brewery for some delicious local craft brew! ***Beara Brewing Co.2800 Lafayette RoadPortsmouth, NH 03801Tel. (857) 342-3272 www.bearairishbrew.com Like us onInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bearairishbrew/?hl=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BearaIrishBrewingCo Twitter: https://twitter.com/BearaIrishBrew Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beara-brewing-co-30776075/**LISTEN to our Craft Beer Storm Podcast and share with a friend**Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278Craft Beer Storm You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp3PVuCGmywNWlGFh0N0ukg?view_as=subscriberCraft Beer Storm Podcast Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/podcast-center-la-2/craft-beer-stormCraft Beer Storm Facebook:

Craft Brew News - 05/24/19(brought to you by Brewbound.com)Texas Senate Approves Beer To-Go-Sales MeasureTexas craft brewers’ efforts to legalize beer-to-go sales is closer to passage than ever before.On Wednesday, Texas Senators unanimously passed sweeping legislation to maintain operations of the state’s alcohol regulatory body, the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC), along with several changes to the state’s alcoholic beverage code, including an amendment that would permit a majority of the state’s manufacturing breweries to sell their offerings for off-premise consumption.The measure now returns to the House of Representatives for concurrence. Those familiar with the process expect the measure to easily pass through the chamber and then advance to Gov. Greg Abbott’s desk.Texas is the only state in the country that does not allow beer-to-go sales at manufacturing breweries, but the state does allow brewpubs, wineries and distilleries with similar permits to sell their products for off-premise consumption.If passed, the bill would allow consumers to purchase up to one case of beer (288 fl. oz.) per day from the state’s manufacturing breweries, beginning September 1, 2019. The advancement of the beer-to-go sales bill comes a week after the Wholesale Beer Distributors of Texas (WBDT), a powerful lobbying group, agreed to back the measure. In February, the Texas Craft Brewers Guild and Texas’ other wholesaler group, the Beer Alliance of Texas, reached a “stakeholder agreement” on to-go sales.The effort to reform Texas’s direct-sales laws date back to 2015 when Dallas-based Deep Ellum Brewing sued the TABC, arguing that manufacturing breweries were at a competitive disadvantage. Deep Ellum Brewing founder John Reardon called the Senate’s passage of the beer-to-go amendment “bittersweet.”Addressing Rumors, Stone CEO Says Distribution Business is Not For SaleDespite months of rumors to the contrary, Stone Distributing Company (SDC) is not for sale.In a memo to employees last week, Stone Brewing CEO Dominic Engels sought to quash talk that the San Diego craft brewing company was attempting to offload its distribution business.“Rest assured of our commitment to SDC,” he wrote.According to Engels, Stone Distributing remains “a key piece of Stone Brewing” and a “critical” piece to the company’s success in its largest market, California. He added that Stone is “committed to the continued growth of SDC.”Indeed, Stone Distributing has grown into one of the largest craft beer wholesalers in the San Diego market. According to a March profile in San Diego Magazine, the more than two decades old wholesale business sells about 4.5 million cases of beer to more than 12,700 unique accounts annually. The business, which employs more than 300 workers, covers a 40,000-square-mile service area. Beyond selling its own brands, Stone’s portfolio includes about 45 different craft brands, including popular California craft breweries Modern Times, Russian River, and Port Brewing, as well as offerings from national brands such as Boulevard Brewing, Brooklyn Brewery, Cigar City, Oskar Blue and Victory Brewing.So where did rumors of a sale originate? Engels pointed to large wholesalers.“In times of uncertainty, fueling rumors is common practice by large wholesalers who look to undermine retailer confidence in the alleged seller,” he wrote. “Given the success of SDC as the largest independent craft beer distributor, whenever there is activity in the market, SDC is a prime target.”Study: US Beer Industry Supports More than 2 Million JobsThe U.S. beer industry was responsible for creating more than 2.19 million jobs that paid more than $101 billion in wages and benefits in 2018, according to a joint study released today by industry trade...

Bohemian-Style Pilsener (Description courtesy of Beer Advocate)The Bohemian Pilsener has a slightly sweet and evident malt character and a toasted, biscuit-like, bready malt character. Hop bitterness is perceived as medium with a low to medium-low level of noble-type hop aroma and flavor. This style originated in 1842, with “pilsener” originally indicating an appellation in the Czech Republic. Classic examples of this style used to be conditioned in wooden tanks and had a less sharp hop bitterness despite the similar IBU ranges to German-style Pilsener. Bohemian-Style Pilseners are darker in color and higher in final gravity than their German counterparts.The head should be dense-Color - Straw to gold-Clarity: Appearance should be bright; chill haze should not be present- Perceived Malt Aroma & Flavor: slightly sweet and toasted, biscuity, bready malt aroma and flavor is evident- Hop Aroma and Flavor and Bitterness Low to medium-low, derived from noble-type hops.-Four Noble HopsoHallertauer Mittelfrüh.oTettnang.oSpalt.oSaaz.-Body: Medium-ABV: 4.1%-5.1%-Glassware: Pilsner Glass or Pokal - Typically a tall, slender and tapered 12-ounce glass, shaped like a trumpet at times, that captures the sparkling effervesces and colors of a Pils while maintaining its head. A Pokal is a European Pilsner glass with a stem. Benefits: Showcases color, clarity and carbonation. Promotes head retention. Examples (courtesy of Beer Advocate)(https://www.beeradvocate.com)Pilsner Urquell | Plzeňský PrazdrojBrewed by: Plzeňský Prazdroj Czech Republicprazdrojvisit.cz Style: Bohemian Pilsener Alcohol by volume (ABV): 4.40% Notes / Commercial Description: While most lagers give away most of their taste profile in the front of the mouth, Pilsner Urquell only hints at its flavour there. Instead, it develops in the middle, followed by a refreshing, clean finish and balanced aftertaste, practically inviting you to have another.Lagunitas PILS (Czech Style Pilsner) | Lagunitas Brewing CompanyBrewed by: Lagunitas Brewing Company California, United Stateslagunitas.com Style: Bohemian Pilsener Alcohol by volume (ABV): 6.20% Notes / Commercial Description: Our only Lager, brewed with loads of imported Saaz hops and a bottom-fermenting yeast strain that leaves it Light and Crisp and Easy to Slam, yet full of real flavor and all the things you yearn for.Subscribe to Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2*** A Top 20 Podcast in Food on iTunes ***Michael Potorti is the Host of Craft Beer Storm and Founder/Brewer at Beara Brewing Co. in Portsmouth, NHMichael PotortiFounder/BrewerHost of "Craft Beer Storm" Podcastmichael@craftbeerstorm.commichael@bearairishbrew.com*** Come visit our brewery for some delicious local craft brew! ***Beara Brewing Co.2800 Lafayette RoadPortsmouth, NH 03801Tel. (857) 342-3272 www.bearairishbrew.com Like us onInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bearairishbrew/?hl=enFacebook:

Michael speaks with Stacy Martel, General Manager of the British Beer Company restaurant in Manchester, NH about beer trends and the importance of local brew.In England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland, the pub or “local” is the center of village life. We’re proud to replicate that experience here in New England at our 10 BBC pubs. Our cozy interiors welcome you whether you’re dropping by for a pint, or coming in with the family. We offer an extensive beer list, featuring many small U.K. breweries as well as more well known names like Fuller’s and Guinness. Our menu (not offered in Plymouth) features British pub favourites, like Fish & Chips and Bangers & Mashed, as well as American classics including pizza, burgers and steak tips. In addition, look for creative chef’s specials and monthly promotions.https://www.britishbeer.com/Subscribe to Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2*** A Top 20 Podcast in Food on iTunes ***Michael Potorti is the Host of Craft Beer Storm and Founder/Brewer at Beara Brewing Co. in Portsmouth, NHMichael PotortiFounder/BrewerHost of "Craft Beer Storm" Podcastmichael@craftbeerstorm.commichael@bearairishbrew.com*** Come visit our brewery for some delicious local craft brew! ***Beara Brewing Co.2800 Lafayette RoadPortsmouth, NH 03801Tel. (857) 342-3272 www.bearairishbrew.com Like us onInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bearairishbrew/?hl=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BearaIrishBrewingCo Twitter: https://twitter.com/BearaIrishBrew Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beara-brewing-co-30776075/**LISTEN to our Craft Beer Storm Podcast and share with a friend**Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278Craft Beer Storm You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp3PVuCGmywNWlGFh0N0ukg?view_as=subscriberCraft Beer Storm Podcast Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/podcast-center-la-2/craft-beer-stormCraft Beer Storm Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/craftbeerstorm/Craft Beer Storm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelpotorti/

Michael interviews Kerry Marshall, Event Coordinator for the Matt Eaton Memorial Golf Tournament. Beara Brewing Co. will be launching this year's version of Eatman Ale on May 26 in our taproom! A portion of all proceeds for the day's sales will go to the Jimmy Fund / Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Get in here on Sunday!Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/events/2167574693497949/Website: https://matteatongolf.weebly.com/Subscribe to Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2*** A Top 20 Podcast in Food on iTunes ***Michael Potorti is the Host of Craft Beer Storm and Founder/Brewer at Beara Brewing Co. in Portsmouth, NHMichael PotortiFounder/BrewerHost of "Craft Beer Storm" Podcastmichael@craftbeerstorm.commichael@bearairishbrew.com*** Come visit our brewery for some delicious local craft brew! ***Beara Brewing Co.2800 Lafayette RoadPortsmouth, NH 03801Tel. (857) 342-3272 www.bearairishbrew.com Like us onInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bearairishbrew/?hl=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BearaIrishBrewingCo Twitter: https://twitter.com/BearaIrishBrew Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beara-brewing-co-30776075/**LISTEN to our Craft Beer Storm Podcast and share with a friend**Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278Craft Beer Storm You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp3PVuCGmywNWlGFh0N0ukg?view_as=subscriberCraft Beer Storm Podcast Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/podcast-center-la-2/craft-beer-stormCraft Beer Storm Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/craftbeerstorm/Craft Beer Storm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelpotorti/

More from the Craft Brewers Conference!Michael had the privilege of interviewing the following guests:Colm Cahill - Malting Company of Ireland - https://www.maltingcompany.ie/Ryan Newhouse - Zephyr Conferences - https://www.zephyrconferences.com/Jaki Brophy - USA Hops - https://www.usahops.org/Josh Noel - Chicago Tribune - https://www.chicagotribune.com/Subscribe to Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2*** A Top 20 Podcast in Food on iTunes ***Michael Potorti is the Host of Craft Beer Storm and Founder/Brewer at Beara Brewing Co. in Portsmouth, NHMichael PotortiFounder/BrewerHost of "Craft Beer Storm" Podcastmichael@craftbeerstorm.commichael@bearairishbrew.com*** Come visit our brewery for some delicious local craft brew! ***Beara Brewing Co.2800 Lafayette RoadPortsmouth, NH 03801Tel. (857) 342-3272 www.bearairishbrew.com Like us onInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bearairishbrew/?hl=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BearaIrishBrewingCo Twitter: https://twitter.com/BearaIrishBrew Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beara-brewing-co-30776075/**LISTEN to our Craft Beer Storm Podcast and share with a friend**Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278Craft Beer Storm You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp3PVuCGmywNWlGFh0N0ukg?view_as=subscriberCraft Beer Storm Podcast Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/podcast-center-la-2/craft-beer-stormCraft Beer Storm Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/craftbeerstorm/Craft Beer Storm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelpotorti/

Michael speaks with Kate Ryan (Food Writer for leading Irish Publications and Founder of Flavour.ie) about great food and drink in County Cork and beyond.Flavour.ie is all about West Cork Food. The quality and variety of food produced here in our region of Ireland rivals that of any other gourmet food destination in the world and we tell the world about it one story at a time.Food Writer writing for Evening Echo, The Opinion and The Southern Star / West Fork regularly; features writer for TheTaste.ie and Food Blogger (www.flavour.ie/blog) with a firm eye on showcasing the best food producers in West Cork region specifically, and Ireland generally.

Craft Brew News – 5/10/19(Courtesy of Brewbound.com)Boston Beer Company and Dogfish Head Agree to Merge in $300 Million DealEight years ago, Dogfish Head and Boston Beer Company teamed up to brew a collaboration beer for the annual SAVOR craft beer and food pairing experience.Today, the two companies announced the signing of a definitive merger agreement valued at about $300 million. The deal is expected to close in the second quarter.The merger comes nearly four years after Dogfish Head sold a 15 percent stake to LNK Partners, a New York-based private equity firm. As a result of the merger, LNK will exit its investment in the Delaware-based craft brewery.The merger brings together the Brewers Association’s second-largest craft beer maker, Boston Beer, with the 13th largest craft brewery, Dogfish Head. Both companies will retain their status as BA-defined independent craft breweries.Speaking to Brewbound, Sam Calagione said the deal came together over pints this past February, during Beer Advocate’s Extreme Beer Fest in Boston.Sam said “We talked about how challenging the industry is getting, the indie craft definition, brands that consumers think are indie craft, active lifestyle beers, and we discovered how beautifully complementary and not competitive our portfolios were,” he said.In a press release, the two companies said the merger would “create a powerful Amercian-owned platform for craft beer and beyond.”Koch said, via the press release. “This combination is the right fit as both Boston Beer and Dogfish Head have a passion for brewing and innovation, we share the same values and we will learn a lot from each other as we continue to invest in the high-end beer category,”According to the release, Dogfish Head is on pace to sell 300,000 barrels of beer in 2019, with net sales of about $120 million.Boston Beer chief executive Dave Burwick, who previously served as the CEO of Peet’s Coffee & Tea Inc. before taking over as CEO of the brewery last February, will lead the merged entity.According to Calagione, Burwick — who led the acquisitions of two super-premium coffee brands, Intelligentsia and Stumptown, while at Peet’s — was “very involved” in the merger.Burwick said, via the release “United, we will have the highest quality, most distinct, high-end portfolio, from both a price-point and product perspective with the top-ranked sales organization to bring it to market,”. “We expect that we’ll see more consolidation in the craft industry over time, and we’ll be in the best position to take advantage of those changes.”Calagione, who noted that Dogfish shares about half of its wholesalers with Boston Beer, said the two companies would also look to “align distribution geography everywhere it makes sense.”Red Bull Terminates 3 Massachusetts Wholesalers, Leading to ‘Mass Layoff’ at BurkeRed Bull North America this week announced it would terminate distribution contracts with three Massachusetts beer and non-alcoholic beverage wholesalers in June, as it transitions to a self-distribution model for off-premise accounts. The energy drink maker also announced it would transfer its on-premise business to wine and spirits distributor Martignetti Companies.Starting June 3, Red Bull Distribution Company (RBDC) will take over the brand’s distribution rights from Burke Distributing Corporation in Boston, Atlas Distributing in Worcester and Williams Distributing Company in Chicopee.In a statement released to media outlets, Red Bull said its focus is on “providing the most effective and efficient route to market in every geography.”Unlike beer breweries, non-alcoholic beverage companies are not subject to Massachusetts’ franchise laws, which lock beer brands into nearly unbreakable contracts with their...