Jeff and Patrick describe the process of barrel aging beer. They talk about the historic role of wood barrels, the modern use of bourbon and wine barrels and the wild ales of Belgium. They discuss the flavor profiles, the economics and the art of barrel aging and blending beer.

Jeff and Patrick discuss the Trappist Ales of Belgium and beyond - their history, provenance and modern examples. They taste beer from Rochefort, Westmalle and Orval and discuss the wide variety of styles to be found in monastic brewing.

Patrick and Jeff discuss the rapid expansion of the craft beer market and discuss whether there is reason for concern that the market is overheated and heading for a crash.

Jeff and Patrick discuss the origin and history of the porter and stout styles and how, aided by improvements in malts and the advent of steam power, they grew to become the first global super-styles of beer. They go on to discuss their popularity in the early craft beer movement in the U.S. and how they seem to be falling out of favor in the current craft scene.

Jeff and Patrick discuss how flavors in beer are created during the the brewing process and sample examples of malty, hoppy and yeasty beers along the way. As a bonus they solve the mystery of the 22oz bottle premium.

Jeff and Patrick discuss the seasonal emergence of Winter Ales and talk about the traditions of winter beer in England and Belgium. Examples of Belgian of American winter ales are sampled and discussed. They also introduce new segments to the pod: Beer News, The Mailbag and The Beer Sherpa Recommends.

Jeff and Patrick take a foray into the world of cider to commemorate the official launch of Jeff's new book "Cider Made Simple" from Chronicle Books. They discuss the origins of cider, how cider is made, the main cider making regions of the world and cider in the new world.

Jeff and Patrick take you on a beer tour of Germany, discussing the major brewing regions, styles and beers. They sample eight different German beers and discuss both well-known and lesser-known styles.

Patrick and Jeff discuss the recent news of potential mergers amongst marco brewers, the recent spate of acquisitions and the infusion of private capital into craft brewing and what it all means for he future of craft beer.

Jeff and Patrick visit Breakside Brewery to discuss the history, evolution and culture of fresh hop beers and the fresh hop beer season in the Pacific Northwest. With fist ever live guest! - Ben Edmunds, Brewmaster at Breakside.