Craft Beer Storm

A rather old, rare, and unique German beer style, Kellerbiers are unfiltered and unpasteurized lagers that date back to at least the Middle Ages. The beer is matured, unbunged (beer is exposed), in deep vaults. The final product is a smooth, naturally cloudy beer that's rich in vitamins from the yeast. Hop bitterness can be high and alcohol will vary. Zwickelbier is similar to a Keller, but not as pronounced.These unfiltered beers are packaged and served with low to moderate amounts of yeast.They may be filtered and dosed with yeast during packaging.-Color: Varies depending on the underlying German ale style-Clarity: Can be clear to moderately cloudy. Slight yeast haze is acceptable and traditional. These beers are unfiltered, but may become clear with age. May exhibit poor head retention.-Perceived Malt Aroma & Flavor: Kellerbier ales are unfiltered German-style Altbier or Koelsch. Malt aromas and flavors typical of these styles should be present.-Hop Aroma and Flavor and Bitterness Varies depending on underlying style. Hop character may be muted by the presence of yeast.-Body: Varies depending on underlying style-ABV: Varies with style-Glassware: Mug or SteinExamples (courtesy of Beer Advocate)(https://www.beeradvocate.com)Samuel Adams Kellerbier | Boston Beer Company (Samuel Adams)Brewed by: Boston Beer Company (Samuel Adams) Massachusetts, United Statessamueladams.com Style: German Kellerbier / Zwickelbier Alcohol by volume (ABV): 5.00% Notes / Commercial Description: Kellerbiers originated in German cellars when brewers couldn’t wait to taste the fruits of their labors, so they tapped young beers straight from barrels. Our version ages on oak chips for a refreshing juxtaposition of light unfiltered malts with an intriguing woodsy note.Southern Gothic | Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.Brewed by: Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. California, United Statessierranevada.com Style: German Kellerbier / Zwickelbier Alcohol by volume (ABV): 5.60% Notes / Commercial Description: Steeped in tradition, yet ready for anything—that pretty much sums up our Southern Gothic Unfiltered Pils. This hop-forward but light-bodied pilsner is crisp and drinkable, perfect for an afternoon on the porch or a night down at the pub. We left it unfiltered and raw to bring out its complexity and add a depth of flavor.Subscribe to Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2Michael 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:

Michael speaks with Dave Adams, Co-Founder of Granite State Growler Tours. His buses bring thirsty Craft Beer Fans to quality breweries across the state of NH.Granite State Growler Tours, the only craft brewery tour bus in New Hampshire and a Best of NH 2013 winner, is roaming for foam! Our mission is to take you to the best beer and spirits we can find, and to support local businesses by sharing them with our guests.Hop on our bus, affectionately named ‘Greta the Growler Getta’ and visit the best craft breweries and distilleries on the NH seacoast.Your adventure includes exclusive personal tours given by the brewers themselves so you can talk to them one on one. Tastings are included in your ticket price and if you like what you tried, grab a growler and we’ll keep it iced down for you.As we travel from tap to tap, our knowledgeable guide will entertain and intrigue you with unique historical facts and stories about the rich and foamy history of brewing in NH. You will also get to see brewing and beer related sites from the Revolution to Prohibition.With great hops at every stop, we know you’ll enjoy Granite State Growler tours. We are also available for private, group or custom tours. Let two local dudes show you the best local brews!Website: https://nhbeerbus.com/Subscribe to Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2Michael 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://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2Craft Beer Storm You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp3PVuCGmywNWlGFh0N0ukg?view_as=subscriberCraft Beer Storm Podcast Radio Public: https://radiopublic.com/craft-beer-storm-WdbK0LCraft Beer Storm Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/craftbeerstorm/Craft Beer Storm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craftbeerstorm/

Craft Brew News – 2/22/19Courtesy of Brewbound.comReceiver Reaches Agreement to Sell DME Group’s Main BusinessCourt-appointed receiver Alvarez & Marsal filed a report Thursday saying it had reached an agreement to sell financially troubled Canadian brewing equipment manufacturer DME Group’s manufacturing and fabrication headquarters in Charlottetown.According to the receiver’s second report filed with the Superior Court of Prince Edward Island, Alvarez & Marsal said it executed a purchase agreement with CIMC Enric Tank and Process Ltd. on February 13. Now, the receiver is asking the court to approve the sale.According to CIMC’s website, the company is “one of the largest suppliers for the beverages and liquid food industries,” with operations around the globe.Alvarez & Marsal said CIMC plans to continue the DME Group’s operations in Charlottetown, employ a majority of the employees currently working at the facility and potentially rehire others.Backlash Over Boston Beer GardensA pair of Massachusetts lawmakers are attempting to rein in Boston’s popular outdoor beer gardens, according to the Boston Globe.Driven by the Massachusetts Restaurant Association, state Sens. Ed Kennedy (D-Lowell) and Nick Collins (D-South Boston) are co-sponsoring a bill that would prevent any person or company from obtaining more than 14 one-day licenses a year. Beer companies such as Trillium and Wachusett, among others, have used those licenses to operate outdoor beer gardens from the spring into the fall.Currently, the law allows applicants to obtain up to 30 one-day licenses. However, beer companies have used a loophole that allows multiple applicants to request licenses on their behalf. Last year, the city issued 82 one-day licenses, up from 39 in 2017, the Globe reported.Speaking to the Globe, Massachusetts Restaurant Association president and CEO Bob Luz said the law is being abused to the detriment of his organization’s members.The states brewers have said they’re willing to work with lawmakers to evolve the law.Meanwhile, Notch Brewing founder Chris Lohring pointed out that the bill as written wouldn’t just hurt craft brewers, but would also affect nonprofits that rely on one-day licenses.Jim Koch Responds to #CorntroversyIt’s been nearly two weeks since Anheuser-Busch launched its Bud Light Super Bowl ads pointing out MillerCoors’ use of corn syrup in its flagship Miller Lite and Coors Light offerings and upsetting corn farmers. Now, Boston Beer Company founder Jim Koch has trudged into the cornfield with a blog post on the Samuel Adams website titled “Corntroversy — Deja Vu?”Koch wrote “It’s like McDonald’s and Burger King arguing about grilling vs. broiling their burgers,” he wrote. “Who cares? Fast food is still fast food.” Koch also predicted that the next phase of A-B’s fight with MillerCoors would be either the latter’s use of hop extract or an attack on imports such as Corona and Modelo, which “use the same industrial brewing techniques and ingredients”Koch also wrote “How safe is the quality image and premium price point of imported beers if drinkers realize that their fancy, upscale image hides less expensive ingredients and industrial brewing practices, just as happened in 1986?”Drizly Partners with BevMo! in CaliforniaBoston-based on-demand alcohol delivery company Drizly is expanding its reach in California via a new partnership with retailer BevMo!, according to a press releaseBevMo has 166 beer, wine and liquor stores on West Coast.The deal will make Drizly’s 60-minute delivery service available in 45 of BevMo!’s stores, including those in the Bay Area, Silicon Valley, Los Angeles and San Diego.With the addition of BevMo!, Drizly now partners with more...

Wood and Barrel-Aged Strong StoutThese are a Stouts aged in either a wooden barrel or in contact with wood. English Stout - Stouts are typically dark brown to pitch black in color. A common profile among Stouts, but not in all cases, is the use of roasted barley (unmalted barley that is kilned to the point of being charred) which lends a dry character to the beer as well as a huge roasted flavor that can range from burnt to coffee to chocolate. Traditional English Stout recipes rely on bitterness from the roasted grain to provide a dry finish and consequently tend to show very little hop character.Wood and Barrel Aged Stouts are aged with the intention of developing unique attributes imparted by the wood and/or by liquids that had previously been stored in contact with the wood. Wood aging does not necessarily impart wood flavors, but does result in distinctive sensory outcomes. Used sherry, rum, whiskey, tequila, port, wine and other barrels are often used, imparting complexity and uniqueness to a beer. A balance of aroma, flavor and mouthfeel results from the marriage of new beer with attributes imparted by the wood or barrel.We age our Stout (5.3 % ABV) in Jim Beam Barrels. Call it Bourbon Birthday Gold. More in a few months.-Color - Characteristically dark to very dark-Clarity: Opaque-Perceived Malt Aroma & Flavor: Varies with underlying style – usually higher Malt character, sweeter less hoppy-Hop Aroma and Flavor and Bitterness Varies with underlying stout style-Body: Varies with underlying style-ABV: > 5.0%-Glassware: Belgian Style glass / SnifterExamples (courtesy of Beer Advocate)(https://www.beeradvocate.com)Ten FIDY - Bourbon Barrel Aged | Oskar Blues Grill & BrewBrewed by: Oskar Blues Grill & Brew Colorado, United Statesoskarblues.com Style: Russian Imperial Stout Alcohol by volume (ABV): 12.90% Notes / Commercial Description: Aged through four seasons and from a blend of the top Bourbons around, this Ten Fidy has morphed into a monster of cranked up flavor. Espresso, burnt sugar, rich chocolate, caramel notes are now driving alongside the vanilla, oak, bourbon from the barrel and been smoothed out during maturation. Even at 12.9% (75 IBUs) it is cool and drinkable, letting each sip add more and more complexity.Bourbon County Brand Stout | Goose Island Beer Co.Brewed by: Goose Island Beer Co. Illinois, United Statesgooseisland.com Style: American Imperial Stout Alcohol by volume (ABV): 15.20% A liquid as dark and dense as a black hole with thick foam the color of a bourbon barrel. The nose is an intense mix of charred oak, chocolate, vanilla, caramel and smoke. One sip has more flavor than your average case of beer.Subscribe to Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2Michael 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:

Michael speaks with Tom Cook, Founder of Von Ebert Brewing in Portland, OR about his experiences in Craft Beer and the Portland Beer Scene.Von Ebert Brewing is owned and operated by Tom Cook, Dennis January, Eric Simko and Tom S. Cook. Von Ebert Brewing was named after Tom S’ Great Grandmother Ebert, who was the guiding force to our immigrant family when they came over from Germany to the United States. Through marriage, our last name is different now, but when we decided to build a craft brand, we knew we wanted to make Grandma proud and she continues to be our guiding force. If Grandma Ebert wouldn’t think it was up to point, we won’t do it.We brew on an American made, custom 10bbl brew house built by JVNW in Canby Oregon. Most of our beer is poured directly from our brite tanks, which helps keep aroma in the beer.We proudly do not have a filter, but still make very bright beer. Typically, we make about 100 different styles per year and our draft list changes about every 3 or 4 days.http://vonebertbrewing.com/Subscribe to Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2Michael 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://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2Craft Beer Storm You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp3PVuCGmywNWlGFh0N0ukg?view_as=subscriberCraft Beer Storm Podcast Radio Public: https://radiopublic.com/craft-beer-storm-WdbK0LCraft Beer Storm Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/craftbeerstorm/Craft Beer Storm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craftbeerstorm/

Craft Brew News 2/15/19(Courtesy of Brewbound.com)Union Efforts Start at Anchor BrewingAnchor Employees Attempt to UnionizeWorkers of the iconic Anchor Brewing Company in San Francisco have begun the process of unionizing, Splinter News reported.In a letter dated February 7, Anchor’s employees requested that Japan’s Sapporo Holdings Limited, which acquired the brewery in 2017, recognize their union with the International Longshoremen & Warehouse Union.“Anchor workers should be paid enough to live in San Francisco,” the letter said. “We’re struggling to survive and raise our families. The work we do is exhausting — and we have to keep moving farther away and driving longer to survive.”The employees added that if Sapporo does not recognize their union, they would file for an election with the National Labor Relations Board.Anchor would not be the only beer company to organize. Brewers Association chief economist Bart Watson tweeted that Boston Beer Company’s Cincinnati production facility as well as Lagunitas’ Chicago operation are both unionized. Additionally, August Schell brewer Dave Berg noted that the Minnesota brewery is also a union house.Pabst Rebrands Not Your Father’s Line, Targets Female ConsumersPabst Brewing Company officially launched the rebrand of its Not Your Father’s FMB line earlier this week. The nationwide rollout of rebranded labels and packaging for its root beer offering and new lemonade flavor started Monday.According to a press release, Pabst is now using the line to target female consumers ages 21 to 35, and the company has lowered the price of 6-packs to $9.99.“We learned that these women are buying 60 percent of the flavored malt beverage business,” Daniel Crawford, Not Your Father’s associate brand manager, said via the release. “We took the time to get to know her – what makes her tick, what motivates her and how she likes to spend her free time – it all guided the new look and the campaign we’re launching to introduce the new brand.”Weyerbacher Cuts 2 Sales Reps, Seeks InvestmentIn a cost-cutting move as it seeks new investment, Easton, Pennsylvania-based Weyerbacher Brewing has laid off two salespeople, according to PhillyBeerWorld.com.Weyerbacher chief operating officer Josh Lampe described the job cuts as “reorganizing.”“We’re getting some funding from investors,” he said. “As part of that, we had to get the company healthy before the investment came in.”According to PhillyBeerWorld.com, Weyerbacher produced about 15,000 barrels of beer in 2018, down from a peak of 19,543 barrels in 2014, according to an estimate from the BA.Meanwhile, Weyerbacher was involved in a two-month dispute with its insurance carrier.Breweries Close in Portland, Oregon and DenverPortland, Oregon-based Burnside Brewing is now closed after its landlord changed the locks to the building due to the 9-year-old beer company failing to keep make its rent payments, Willamette Week reported. Additionally, a lien has been placed on the brewery’s equipment.Employees were reportedly notified via a message — a screenshot of which was shared on Reddit — that the brewery was “no longer operational” as of February 5, and they were encouraged to file for unemployment. The message added that it was unclear if the company would make payroll, but “wages will be paid as soon as possible.”Burnside, which the BA estimated produced 3,400 barrels of beer in 2017, is one of several established Portland beer companies to either shut down completely or close a taproom over the last five months.Meanwhile, Denver-based Fermaentra Brewery announced it would close on February 23, according to the Westword alt-weekly newspaper.“Long story short, a lot of overhead has forced some difficult...

Wood- and Barrel-Aged Strong BeerThese are a Strong Ale aged in either a wooden barrel or in contact with wood. Strong Ale - A catch-all style category for beers from 7 percent alcohol by volume and above. Some may even be as high as 20 percent ABV. As a result, color, aroma, and flavor characteristics will greatly vary; some have similarities to Barleywines and Old Ales. Wood and Barrel Aged Strong Beers are aged with the intention of developing unique attributes imparted by the wood and/or by liquids that had previously been stored in contact with the wood. Wood aging does not necessarily impart wood flavors, but does result in distinctive sensory outcomes. Used sherry, rum, whiskey, tequila, port, wine and other barrels are often used, imparting complexity and uniqueness to a beer. A balance of aroma, flavor and mouthfeel results from the marriage of new beer with attributes imparted by the wood or barrel.We age our Mighty Ale (Strong Ale 8%) in Jim Beam Barrels and add local NH Maple Syrup. Call it Bourbon Oaked Mighty.-Color -Varies with underlying style – lighter than Stout or Darker ale-Clarity: Varies with underlying style-Perceived Malt Aroma & Flavor: Varies with underlying style – usually higher Malt character, sweeter less hoppy-Hop Aroma and Flavor and Bitterness Varies with underlying style-Body: Varies with underlying style-ABV: > 6.3%-Glassware: Belgian Style glass / SnifterExamples (courtesy of Beer Advocate)(https://www.beeradvocate.com)Bigfoot Barleywine Style Ale - Barrel-Aged | Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.Brewed by: Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. (Ken Grossman – need you on Podcast!)California, United Statessierranevada.com Style: American Barleywine Alcohol by volume (ABV): 12.20% Bigfoot is a beast of a beer, brimming with bold flavors of bittersweet malt and heaps of aggressive whole-cone Pacific Northwest hops. First introduced in the winter of 1983, Bigfoot is a cult-classic beer brewed in the barleywine style, meaning a strong, robust, bruiser of a beer with the refined intensity of a wine. Bigfoot is prized by beer collectors for its supreme cellarability. Under the proper conditions, it can age like a fine wine, developing new flavors and character as it matures in the bottle. Each new release or “expedition” is vintage dated. Collect your own and see the flavors develop and progress.Arrogant Bastard Ale - Bourbon Barrel-Aged | Arrogant Consortia (Stone Brewing)Brewed by: Arrogant Consortia California, United Statesarrogantconsortia.com Style: American Strong Ale (Mitch Steele – need you on Podcast!)Alcohol by volume (ABV): 8.10% I awake from a slumber that’s been anything but peaceful. I feel stronger yet somehow more nimble and refined. I have been born anew and, in the process, anointed with vibrant, inspiring, previously unexperienced character, all while maintaining everything I am and have always been—bold, bullish, unadulterated, and yes, Arrogant. Are you Worthy of quaffing a beverage of this intensity, irreverence and quality craftsmanship? Not likely, but for those who “get it,” I know my time in this bourbon barrel has not been wasted. Cheers to you, enlightened imbiber. On second thought, cheers to me!Subscribe to Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2Michael Potorti is the Host of Craft Beer Storm and Founder/Brewer at Beara Brewing Co. in Portsmouth, NHMichael PotortiFounder/BrewerHost of...

Michael speaks with Jillian Francis, Organizer for the Portland, OR chapter of Beer Necessities. This group exposes women to fine craft beer across the US.Subscribe to Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2Michael 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://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2Craft Beer Storm You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp3PVuCGmywNWlGFh0N0ukg?view_as=subscriberCraft Beer Storm Podcast Radio Public: https://radiopublic.com/craft-beer-storm-WdbK0LCraft Beer Storm Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/craftbeerstorm/Craft Beer Storm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craftbeerstorm/

Craft Brew News 020819Canada’s Collective Arts Brewing to Enter Cannabis MarketCanada’s Collective Arts Brewing is venturing into the cannabis sector.The Hamilton, Ontario-based craft brewery, located about 50 miles from the New York border, has established a sister company called Collective Project Limited that will develop and sell cannabis-infused beverages.In a conversation with Brewbound, CEO and co-founder Matt Johnston said the new line of THC- and CBD-infused beverages would be “artisanal” in nature, and could include non-alcoholic beer, as well as cold brew coffee or tea.The company is also planning to make a multi-million dollar investment on dealcoholization equipment, which will be used to produce non-alcoholic beer infused with THC and CBD, Johnston said.Collective Arts joins a growing list of beer manufacturers that have already invested in the cannabis space. Large beer companies such as Anheuser-Busch InBev (Tilray), Constellation Brands (Canopy Growth) and Molson Coors (Hexo) have each struck partnerships with Canadian cannabis companies. Other U.S. beer manufacturers, including Flying Dog, and Heineken-owned Lagunitas have experimented or explored the possibility of THC- and CBD-infused beverages. Craft Brew Alliance is also eying the sector.Bell’s Brewery to Cease Beer Shipments to VirginiaVirginia may be for lovers, but it won’t be a place where drinkers can purchase Bell’s beer for much longer.Bell’s Brewery founder Larry Bell notified the company’s seven Virginia wholesalers on Friday that the Michigan craft brewery would cease shipments to the state after filling final orders.Bell told Brewbound. “We are not taking any new orders from them at this point,” “Those were difficult calls to make,” he added. “It feels like the government shutdown. Here’s people that aren’t getting a paycheck because of somebody else’s dispute. But the fact of the matter is, with Virginia law, that if we stay in the market, we could be exposing ourselves to legal risk that could be financially devastating.”Bell declined to explain further, citing ongoing legal proceedings before the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority (ABC). However, at the center of his company’s retraction from the state is a dispute over the attempted sale of Bell’s distribution rights to a subsidiary of the Reyes Beverage Group.Bell added that his company’s overall shipments grew 2.7 percent in 2018, driven by distribution expansion and organic growth in the company’s home markets. In 2017, Bell’s ranked as the seventh largest craft brewery in the U.S., producing about 463,808 barrels of beer, according to trade group the Brewers Association.Massachusetts Breweries Strike Strategic PartnershipMassachusetts’ Mercury Brewing and Newburyport Brewing today announced a strategic partnership that will give the latter company access to brewing capacity, via a contract arrangement, as well as various sales, marketing, and administrative resources.Speaking to Brewbound, Rob Martin, owner of Mercury Brewing, which produces beers under the Ipswich Ale Brewery label, confirmed that his company had not taken an ownership stake in Newburyport.Instead, Newburyport worked out an agreement with Mercury Brewing that includes payment for brewing, as well as sales, marketing and administrative services.In the process of partnering up, Newburyport will close its existing production facility as it prepares to downsize brewing operations and open a “destination brewery” outfitted with a small-batch, 7-barrel system.Newburyport currently operates on a 20-barrel brewing system and supplements its in-house production with beer brewed under contract at Isle Brewers Guild in Pawtucket, Rhode Island.Mercury Brewing currently makes beer for about...

Wood and Barrel Aged BeerThese are any traditional or experimental style of lager, ale or hybrid beer aged in either a wooden barrel or in contact with wood. These beers are aged with the intention of developing unique attributes imparted by the wood and/or by liquids that had previously been stored in contact with the wood. Wood aging does not necessarily impart wood flavors, but does result in distinctive sensory outcomes. Used sherry, rum, whiskey, tequila, port, wine and other barrels are often used, imparting complexity and uniqueness to a beer. A balance of aroma, flavor and mouthfeel results from the marriage of new beer with attributes imparted by the wood or barrel.Two SubcategoriesA.Subcategory: Wood- and Barrel-Aged Pale to Amber Beer-Color: Pale to Amber. Within the framework of these guidelines these beers are less than 18 SRM. SRM stands for ‘Standard Reference Method’, a scale devised by scientists to describe how light or dark a beer is. Scale is 0 to 40 where 0 is clear and 40 is black (Russian Imperial Stout).-Clarity: Varies with underlying style-Perceived Malt Aroma & Flavor: Varies with underlying style-Hop Aroma and Flavor and Bitterness Varies with underlying style-Body: Varies with underlying style-ABV: 3.8%-6.3%B. Subcategory: Wood- and Barrel-Aged Dark Beer-Color: Dark Copper to Black. Within the framework of these guidelines, these beers are greater than 18 SRM -Clarity: Varies with underlying style-Perceived Malt Aroma & Flavor: Varies with underlying style-Hop Aroma and Flavor and Bitterness Varies with underlying style-Body: Varies with underlying style-ABV: Within the framework of these guidelines, these beers contain alcohol less than 6.3% abv when consumed.Examples (courtesy of Beer Advocate)(https://www.beeradvocate.com)Trip In The Woods: Barrel-Aged Maple Scotch | Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.Style: Scotch Ale / Wee Heavy Alcohol by volume (ABV): 9.80% Notes / Commercial Description: Scotch-style ale brewed with maple syrup and aged in Bourbon barrels.Trip In The Woods: Narwhal (Bourbon Barrel-Aged With Red & Black Currants) | Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.Style: Russian Imperial Stout Alcohol by volume (ABV): 9.80% A malt-forward monster, highlighting the depths of malt flavor.Narwhal Imperial Stout is inspired by the mysterious creature that thrives in the deepest fathoms of the frigid Arctic Ocean. Featuring incredible depth of malt flavor, rich with notes of espresso, baker’s cocoa, roasted grain and a light hint of smoke, Narwhal is a massive malt-forward monster. Aggressive but refined with a velvety smooth body and decadent finish, Narwhal will age in the bottle for years to come.Subscribe to Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2Michael 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:

Michael interviews the legendary John Kimmich, Co-Founder of The Alchemist Brewery in Stowe, VT to discuss the success of Heady Topper and give us insights on how he produces some of the most sought after beer in the WORLD.The Alchemist is a family run brewery specializing in fresh, unfiltered IPA. John and Jen Kimmich originally opened The Alchemist as a 60 seat brew pub in the village of Waterbury in 2003. After eight years of success and growing popularity, they decided to open a small production brewery. Today The Alchemist currently operates two breweries in Vermont and handles all local distribution.THE ALCHEMIST – WATERBURYIn early 2011 we built the Alchemist Cannery, a 15 barrel brewery and canning line, for the production of our flagship IPA Heady Topper. The first cans of Heady Topper rolled off the line just two days after Tropical Storm Irene demolished The Alchemist Pub and Brewery. Today, we move all of our beer weekly in a concerted effort to provide the freshest, hoppiest packaged IPA on the market. Heady Topper is brewed only in Waterbury, Vermont and is distributed within a 25 mile radius. Our Waterbury brewery is not open to the public. However, we distribute a portion of Heady Topper to our Stowe brewery and Visitor’s Center for retail sales and tasting. If you are not visiting our Stowe Visitor’s Center and would like to purchase Heady Topper elsewhere, please visit our WHERE TO BUY page to find a retailer close to you.THE ALCHEMIST – STOWEOpened in July 2016, this state of the art facility was designed to be as low impact as possible while providing us with enough space to serve our community and the growing number of beer tourists to Vermont. Our second year round beer, Focal Banger, is brewed in Stowe as well as seasonal beers that rotate throughout the year. The Alchemist Brewery and Visitor’s Center in Stowe provides samples of beer for tasting, retail beer sales, merchandise and a fun, educational experience.Subscribe to Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2Michael 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://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2Craft Beer Storm You Tube:

Craft Brew News - February 1, 2019With Government Reopened, TTB Begins Processing Backlog of Beer LabelsHundreds of Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) employees returned to work on Monday, following a 35-day government shutdown the brought beer label approvals and other important alcohol beverage enforcement activities to a standstill.Last Friday, President Donald Trump signed a continuing resolution that ended the longest government shutdown in U.S. history and temporarily funded the federal government through February 15.Now, with the threat of another shutdown looming, TTB workers are tasked with processing a backlog of nearly 10,000 alcohol beverage label approval requests that have already been submitted this year.The TTB approved 192,000 alcohol beverage labels — including approximately 34,000 beer labels — in 2018, according to the Washington Post.During the 35-day shutdown, a number of small craft brewery owners were stuck waiting for beer label approvals that couldn’t be processed, delaying new beer releases and causing financial setbacks.Meanwhile, in Oregon, Deschutes Brewery president Michael LaLonde told the Bend Bulletin that 8 percent of the company’s business was at risk as it awaited approval for six beer labels and a cider permit.“It’s having a huge impact on the business and potentially the economy of Oregon itself,” he told the outlet.Green Flash Brewing Rebrands, Re-Releases Original West Coast IPAGreen Flash Brewing today unveiled a new logo, rebranded packages and a reformulated version of its West Coast IPA flagship.The move comes about eight months after the San Diego-based craft brewery named former Anheuser-Busch executive Michael Taylor as its new CEO, following months of financial turmoil and an eventual foreclosure sale to holding company WC IPA LLC.The redesigned packages feature “custom artwork by illustrator Matthew Jay Fleming, whose illustrations depict the vibrant San Diego lifestyle.”“Our new visual identity represents a dramatic shift for the Green Flash brand and reinforces its origin as one of the original San Diego craft beers,” Ben Widseth, the company’s vice president of marketing, said via a press release.In addition to the new package design, the company also re-launched its West Coast IPA flagship with the original recipe. In mid-2014, the company raised the ABV of its West Coast IPA from 7 percent to 8.1 percent.Widseth said “Over the years, we have been listening to our loyal drinkers who reminisced about the original recipe,”. “So we’re excited to bring it back for them to enjoy, along with a portfolio of other fan favorites and new beer releases to come.”In addition to the original West Coast IPA, Green Flash’s core portfolio now includes Soul Style IPA, GFB Blonde Ale and Tropical DNA, a hazy IPA.In 2018, amid ongoing financial troubles, Green Flash was forced to close two production facilities, lay off 76 employees and pull distribution from 42 states.Asahi to Buy Fuller’s Beer and Cider BusinessTokyo-based Asahi Group Holdings today announced a $327 million deal to acquire the beer and cider business of London-based Fuller Smith & Turner.Financial details were not disclosed, and the the transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2019.According to the BBC, Fuller’s will now focus on its pub and hotel business, which accounts for about 87 of the company’s profits. In a press release announcing the deal, Asahi said it would supply beer to Fuller’s more than 380 pubs and hotels in London and south of England.“The deal secures the future of both part of our business including protecting the heritage of the Griffin Brewery in Chiswick, which was particularly important to the Fuller’s board,”...

Brett Beer-It’s all about the yeast used in the beer-Brettanomyces is a kind of yeast - Brettanomyces literally means “British fungus,” and was discovered when a scientist was looking into spoilage of some English ales. It’s “wild” yeast that can have a desirable, or less desirable, impact on the fermentation, and therefore flavor, of beer.-The flavors you might get from a Brett-fermented beer are particularly distinctive, with an emphasis on funkiness, spice, fruit, and a bit of tartness (Brett specifically produces acetic acid). -GABF - Acidity resulting from Brettanomyces fermentation results in a complex flavor profile. Brettanomyces character, at low to high levels, should be present and expressed as horsey, goaty, leathery, phenolic, fruity and/or acidic aromas and flavors.-Fruited versions will exhibit fruit flavors in balance with other elements.-Color: Any color is acceptable. Beer color may be influenced by the color of added fruits or other ingredients.-Clarity: Chill haze and/or haze from yeast is allowable at low to medium levels at any temperature-Perceived Malt Aroma & Flavor: In darker versions, roasted malt, caramel and chocolate aromas and flavors are present at low levels.-Hop Aroma and Flavor and Bitterness Low to High-Body: Low to high-ABV: Varies with style-Glassware: Tulip glassExamples (courtesy of Beer Advocate)(https://www.beeradvocate.com)Wild Devil | Victory Brewing Company - DowningtownIt’s arguable that our menacingly delicious HopDevil has always been wild. With bold German malts and whole flower American hops, this India Pale Ale is anything but prim. But add a touch of brettanomyces, the unruly beast responsible for the sharp tang and deep funk found in many Belgian ales, and our WildDevil emerges completely untamed. Floral, aromatic hops still leap from this amber ale, as a host of new fermentation flavor kicks up notes of citrus and pine.Midnight Brett | Allagash Brewing CompanyMidnight Brett is chocolate brown in color, brewed with 2-Row, Midnight wheat, raw wheat and rye malt. It was hopped with a blend of Perle, Glacier and Simcoe hops. The beer was fermented with our house strain of Brettanomyces in stainless tanks. The finished beer has the aroma and flavor of fresh berries, sour cherries and a slight roasted character. The finish is pleasantly tart and fruity making this beer very drinkable.Subscribe to Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2Michael 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:

Michael speaks with Audra Gaiziunas owner of Brewed For Her Ledger about the financial challenges breweries face today and how to make them profitable.Audra is the owner of Brewed For Her Ledger, LLC, a management consultancy firm focused on providing guidance to the craft brewing and cider communities. Prior to owning her own company, she served as Dogfish Head Craft Brewery's Controller 2009-2010 and Mother Earth Brewing's Chief Financial Officer 2011-2014. She has been working exclusively in craft beer for 9 years. A graduate from the prestigious Kenan-Flagler OneMBA program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Audra possesses over a decade and a half of experience in senior leadership roles in craft brewing, manufacturing, services, non-profits and startups. She earned her undergraduate degree in accounting and business management (double major) from Loras College (Dubuque, IA) in 1997. Her passions include home brewing, mobile marketing, crafting stories from numbers, and paying it forward. When you won't find her on the beach surfing or in the mountains hiking, you'll find her blazing the trails racing, camping out of her FJ, backpacking, and exploring our beautiful mountains.In January 2017, BFHL added Brian Zick to the team as a Financial Analyst. Brian is a CPA who came to us from Bernard Robinson & Company in Greensboro. He graduated from Appalachian State University in 2008 with a degree in marketing, then subsequently returned to earn a second degree in accounting in 2013. His broad experience working with small businesses and not-for-profits, coupled with his passion for craft beer, made him an ideal fit for the needs of our growing consultancy.Subscribe to Craft Beer Storm Podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2Michael 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://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/craft-beer-storm/id1438117278?mt=2Craft Beer Storm You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp3PVuCGmywNWlGFh0N0ukg?view_as=subscriberCraft Beer Storm Podcast Radio Public: https://radiopublic.com/craft-beer-storm-WdbK0LCraft Beer Storm Facebook:

Craft Brew News – 1/25/2019ZX Ventures-Backed Kombrewcha Refreshes Look, Expands DistributionAmid growing interest in more “functional” alcoholic beverages, one of the country’s pioneering hard kombucha brands is undergoing a makeover in an effort to appeal to younger female consumers looking for boozier versions of the fermented tea beverage.Originally launched in 2013 as a more traditional non-alcoholic kombucha, Kombrewcha — which was co-founded by Honest Tea co-creator Barry Nalebuff and received investment from Anheuser-Busch’s ZX Ventures in 2016 — has upped its alcohol content and unveiled new packaging as an emerging hard kombucha category begins to develop.Speaking to Brewbound, Kombrewcha CEO Garrett Bredenkamp said the moves — which include a transition from bottles to cans and expanded distribution to the Pacific Northwest — were the byproduct of consumer feedback from the last year. The company’s core customer — active 28- to 45-year-old women — wants a sessionable beverage with a slightly higher ABV and natural ingredients packaged in cans, he said.So starting in March, Kombrewcha will increase the ABV of its three core offerings — Royal Ginger, Lemongrass Lime and Berry Hibiscus — from 3.2 percent ABV to 4.4 percent ABV.Those products will also move into 6-packs of 12 oz. cans, sold at a suggested retail price of $11.99, as the company phases out 4-pack bottles.Kombrewcha, which was originally founded as a non-alcoholic beverage company, pivoted a little more than a year ago to become one of the first hard kombucha brands. The boozy version of Kombrewcha launched in New York City, where it gained shelf placements at Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s stores, as well as more than 100 on-premise accounts.New York Prohibition Party Seeks Alcohol BanA political party seeking to ban beer, wine and spirits has re-formed in New York, according to NYup.com. Dormant since the 1940s, the New York Prohibition Party reemerged in 2017 with a goal of establishing “a lasting prohibition of the manufacture and sale of alcohol, to abolish the alcohol industry, and to establish a teetotal culture,” the outlet reported.The party is targeting Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who has been a vocal supporter of the state’s craft alcohol industry and given tax credits, grants and other incentives to emerging companies.“Governor Cuomo is perhaps the worst governor on alcohol issues that our state has had since Herbert Lehman [New York’s governor when Prohibition ended in 1933],” the NY Prohibition Party told NYup.com in an email. “His support for the alcohol industry is unethical and has harmed the people of New York.”BrewDog to Fly UK Investors to OhioBrewDog is getting into the airline business… sort of. The Scottish craft beer makers announced an exclusive trip for its Equity for Punks investors to go from London to Ohio, on February 21st through the 25th.“Our shareholders are involved in every aspect of our business – for a chance to check out our Columbus brewery like never before, there’s no better way to travel than with BrewDog Airlines,” the company wrote on its website.BrewDog said it would give travelers a behind-the-scenes look at its Columbus brewery as well as tours of other breweries in the region.Canopy Growth Corporation to Invest Up to $150 Million in New York Production FacilityLess than a month after the signing of the 2018 Farm Bill, Canadian cannabis company Canopy Growth Corporation has announced plans to invest up to $150 million to establish its first U.S. production facility in New York state.Earlier this week, Canopy announced that the Empire State had granted it a license to begin processing and producing hemp. In a press release, Canopy said it would invest between $100 million and $150 million to build a...