BeerWise Podcast

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In the bustling St. Petersburg craft beer scene, Grand Central Brewhouse has carved a unique identity by embracing tradition in an industry often chasing trends. Join host Mark DeNote as he sits down with Zach Collins, Eric Trinosky, and Travis Rebstock to uncover how this relatively new brewery is making waves with its focus on lagers and classic beer styles.

The conversation begins with each brewer sharing their unexpected journeys into professional brewing—from homebrewing experiments to career-changing opportunities. With candor and humor, they discuss the challenges of opening during the pandemic and how they've adapted their business model to thrive in an evolving market.

What truly sets Grand Central apart is their commitment to community. Their "Brew Good Program" has donated over $150,000 to local charities in five years by giving 15% of their top beer sales each month. This philosophy extends to their brewing approach, using domestically-grown Riverbend malt and building relationships with the farmers who grow their grain.

The team offers fascinating insights into their partnership with the Tampa Bay Rowdies soccer team and how they've embraced their customer demographic, which skews older than many craft breweries. This has allowed them to successfully brew styles other breweries might avoid—from smoked beers to brown ales—while maintaining a core lineup of consistent, high-quality offerings.

Perhaps most refreshing is their humility and genuine passion for beer. As Eric notes, "Every day that we wake up is the most exciting day of this industry because there's new hop stuff, new yeast stuff, new research." It's this enthusiasm, combined with their community focus, that makes Grand Central Brewhouse worth watching—and drinking—as they continue to pour their way into St. Petersburg's heart, one traditional style at a time.

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From late-night homebrew sessions to downtown Tampa's newest craft beer destination, Jordan Copher's journey with Late Start Brewing embodies the passion and persistence that defines Florida's craft beer scene.

The name "Late Start" began as a joke about how Jordan and his cousin Tyler Sankey would begin brewing after 9 PM, continuing until sunrise. Over time, it evolved into a wry commentary on their decade-long path to opening a brick-and-mortar location. Now, as the current brewer at Late Start's permanent home on Cass Street, Copher and Late Start are redefining what a neighborhood brewery can be in Tampa's competitive market.

What makes Late Start unique isn't just their diverse beer offerings but their approach to community building. Opening at 8 AM with coffee and breakfast tacos, the brewery transforms throughout the day, becoming an extended living room for downtown residents. "We have people who will close the bar on Friday night and then be here for coffee and breakfast eight hours later on Saturday," Jordan explains, beaming with pride at creating a space where regulars feel at home.

Though currently contract brewing through industry friends at Angry Chair and Magnanimous while finalizing their in-house system, Jordan's brewing philosophy already shines through. He values subtlety over excess, finding more creative fulfillment in the nuanced balance of a West Coast IPA or lager than in trendy hazy IPAs. This thoughtfulness extends to their diverse tap list, which includes everything from classic styles to fruited sours like their standout mango Thai tea sour.

The partnership with food provider Mighty Fine, helmed by chef Nathan Harden, offers what Jordan confidently calls "the best smash burgers in town," providing another reason for guests to linger. This holistic approach to hospitality reflects Jordan's observation about changes in the craft beer landscape: "You have to provide non-beer drinkers a reason to come, sit, and stay."

As Late Start prepares to begin brewing on-site, Jordan looks forward to reviving beloved recipes from their homebrewing days and repaying the many collaboration brews they owe to fellow breweries. His greatest lesson after years in the industry? "Not every beer needs to be perfect. Some beer is just meant for utility, and even if I don't think it's perfect, it might be somebody else's favorite beer."

Ready to experience Tampa's newest craft beer destination? Visit Late Start Brewing on Cass Street and be part of the community they're building—whether you're a craft beer aficionado or simply looking for a welcoming space to enjoy excellent food, drinks, and conversation.

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When Em Sauter began drawing beer cartoons fifteen years ago, she had no idea it would transform into her life's work. As an advanced Cicerone and certified beer judge, Em brings a wealth of knowledge to her visual creations, but it's her unique ability to translate complex beer concepts into approachable cartoons that has connected with audiences worldwide.

"I'm a visual learner and I love to draw," Em explains, describing how Pints and Panels originated as a study tool for her Master Cicerone exam. What started as personal notes blossomed when she shared them online: "I just put them on my website and immediately people were like 'I love this!'" That enthusiastic response launched a journey that would lead to two published books, a Spanish-language beer guide, and a career traveling the world to share her beer knowledge through art.

The power of Em's work lies in its accessibility. Her cartoons break down barriers that often make craft beer seem intimidating or exclusive. "It makes beer—some of the most complex topics in beer—very accessible and easy to break down for new learners," notes podcast host Mark Denote. This approach is particularly evident in Em's library classes, where she creates safe spaces for beginners to ask questions they might feel embarrassed to ask in trendy breweries. These sessions often incorporate fun pairings like beer with ice cream or chips, helping people think about beer beyond traditional contexts.

Beyond pure education, Em has developed creative "lifestyle pairings" matching beer styles with everything from NFL teams and Star Wars characters to presidents and TV shows. These playful connections follow principles of climate, coolness, and cherished preferences, making beer appreciation part of broader cultural conversations. When a drawing of Guinness blends went viral, it sparked important discussions about international beer terminology and the cultural sensitivity around names like "Black and Tan."

Whether you're a certified beer judge or someone who's never ventured beyond mass-market lagers, Em's visual approach to beer education offers something valuable. As she continues drawing her way through the beer world one cartoon at a time, she reminds us that learning should be as enjoyable as the subject itself.

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What does it really take to succeed in Florida's craft brewing industry today? Attorney Trevor Brewer pulls back the curtain on the business challenges facing brewery owners across the Sunshine State in this revealing conversation with Florida Beer News editor Mark DeNote.

Trevor's journey into beverage law began when he noticed a local brewery's prolonged "Coming Soon" sign and later learned the owner had sold his prized toy collection to finance his dream. This entrepreneurial spirit captivated Trevor, who has since advised approximately 40% of Florida's breweries over the past decade through his practice at Brewer Long in Longwood.

The discussion dives deep into market analysis using Trevor's monthly "Brewer's Report," which tracks production numbers and tax data. His findings reveal a sobering reality: Florida brewery sales peaked in March 2022 and have since declined to March 2020 levels despite a growing number of breweries competing for market share. This challenging landscape requires brewery owners to be increasingly adaptive, with many diversifying beyond traditional beer into distilling, wine production, and non-alcoholic offerings.

Perhaps most valuable are Trevor's insights on what truly differentiates successful breweries. While adequate capitalization remains critical, he emphasizes that strong community connections—both externally with customers and internally among owners, staff, and even landlords—often determine which breweries thrive long-term. The most resilient operations have established themselves as neighborhood fixtures, constantly evolving to meet the needs of their specific communities while maintaining financial discipline.

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Sean Sasser invites us into the evolving world of Cigar City Brewing, where tradition meets innovation in Tampa's iconic brewery. As technical brewing manager, Sean's journey from college homebrewer with a Mr. Beer kit to brewing leader traces the fascinating evolution of craft beer itself.

Over pints in CCB's historic Tampa tasting room, Sean pulls back the curtain on what he calls the "Wild West days" working alongside Wayne Wambles, when the "rule of cool" trumped everything else. Those early years cultivated CCB's reputation for boundary-pushing beers that defined Florida's craft scene. But the conversation doesn't shy away from tough questions about ownership changes and the criticism that followed Monster Beverage's acquisition.

"We're not going to stop what we're doing because of outside opinion," Sean explains with quiet confidence. "If there's ever a time for us to be really putting our best foot forward, it's absolutely now." This philosophy has guided CCB through transitions that would have derailed lesser breweries.

What stands out most is Sean's thoughtful evolution as a brewer. Once focused on creating beers that "punch you in the face" with flavor, he now pursues nuance and subtlety: "I want to make beers that, after three pints, they're wondering if they can have another one and call an Uber." This shift reflects broader industry trends while maintaining CCB's distinctive voice in an increasingly crowded marketplace.

From insights about the legendary Hunapuʻ to his current love for Czech dark lagers, Sean's perspective balances reverence for brewing tradition with forward-thinking creativity. After 12 years at CCB, his passion remains undiminished: "It's exclusively driven by pride and love I have for what we have done and what we will do."

Ready to experience what Sean calls "the best beer we've ever made"? Visit Cigar City's Tampa tasting room where everything's brewed on their original 2009 system—a perfect blend of heritage and innovation that defines modern Florida beer.

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Join us as we celebrate the vibrant Tampa Bay Beer Week! This episode explores the fascinating journey of beer enthusiasts as they immerse themselves in a unique week of craft beer events, seminars, and tastings. Host Mark DeNote interviews Sean Nordquist, the Director of the Tampa Bay Brewers Alliance, who emphasizes the exciting changes taking place this year due to a new partnership with Beer Week organizers. 

Sean outlines the variety of new events designed to engage attendees and boost the local beer community. Whether you're a seasoned craft beer aficionado or a newcomer, there are plenty of experiences waiting to be discovered, from unique tastings to community-focused activities.

Discover how the Tampa Bay Beer Week celebrates the craftsmanship behind each beer while fostering a sense of togetherness among participants. Sean provides valuable tips on how to make the most of your week, including the importance of hydration and trying new brews. As we dive into the realm of craft beer, we invite listeners to think beyond just drinking—it's about building connections and embracing the joyous culture of beer in all its diversity.

With so many events happening, there’s something for everyone, from art, craft, and education to just plain fun. Be inspired to participate and support your local breweries during this special week, ensuring they thrive and continue to bring you exceptional beers. Don't miss out on this immersive experience—subscribe now and get ready to raise your glass!

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Ever wondered how a small grassroots initiative can morph into a celebrated event? Discover the fascinating evolution of Orlando Beer Week as I chat with Chris Holland, the co-founder of Tactical Brewing. Chris brings his insider perspective on how the local brewing scene has burgeoned into a vibrant festival, thanks to the dedicated efforts of brewery owners and enthusiasts. Through our conversation, you'll uncover the collaborative spirit that has made this celebration a cornerstone event, transcending its humble beginnings and drawing attention from the broader central Florida region. You'll also witness the excitement and anticipation as we gear up for this year’s lineup of events that promise to captivate both local and visiting beer aficionados.

Prepare to be immersed in the bustling world of Orlando Beer Week, where creativity meets camaraderie. As the festivities unfold, from unique beer pairings to the ever-popular "Lord of the Wings" event, there's something for every taste. Get the scoop on the much-anticipated Mega Collab, featuring this year’s hazy IPA with an exciting twist of Florida honey and oranges. We also venture into the innovative realm of lagers, exploring how brewers like  Rock Pit Brewing push boundaries with traditional and experimental brews. Join us as we navigate the challenges of staying ahead of market trends, and hear firsthand how brewers blend creativity with consumer demands in this dynamic industry.

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Please remember to like, subscribe, and follow BeerWise on your favorite podcast platform, so you don’t miss an episode. Also, please remember to review the show on your favorite podcast platform to help us reach new audiences.

Florida Beer News and this podcast are now on PATREON! I have begun new fundraising efforts for the website and podcast in hopes of making some updates and changes. Check out patreon dot com slash Florida Beer News spelled out for information on how you and your business can help fuel our growth and get some cool rewards.

Thanks for joining us in the journey of the BeerWise Podcast, hosted by Mark DeNote – editor of Florida Beer News.

If you like the podcast, please tell someone. If you have constructive feedback or a guest you’d like to hear on the show, please email mark at floridabeernews dot com or follow the “Contact Us” link on the Florida Beer News website.

For more episodes, follow Florida Beer News on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and your favorite podcast platform!

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Wayne Wambles, the founding brewer of Cigar City Brewing, joins us for an engaging conversation that promises an enlightening exploration of the craft beer world. Wayne talks us through his career from his beginnings in Dothan, Alabama, to becoming synonymous with Tampa's beer scene. Hear about his journey through unique legal hurdles and professional challenges, all the way to his innovative work at Griffin and Sphinx in Brevard, North Carolina. It's a story of passion, resilience, and the enduring allure of brewing.

The episode talks about Wayne's creative process in crafting beers like Hunahpu's Imperial Stout and Jai Alai IPA. Experience the evolution of these beers and the pivotal moments that have shaped his career. Wayne shares insights into the delicate balancing act of brewing—where market demands meet personal standards meet innovative ideas meet traditional brewing techniques, speaking about flexibility and innovation in a rapidly changing industry.

Finally, we turn our focus to the excitement and challenges of launching Griffin and Sphinx. Wayne opens up about the joy of starting small, the thrill of homebrewing, and how these experiences have shaped his current venture. We discuss the brewery's commitment to quality, the innovation of low-alcohol beers, and Wayne's current favorites like a unique Irish red ale. This episode is a rich tapestry of brewing philosophy, growth, and the pursuit of crafting beers that are both nostalgic and forward-thinking.

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Please remember to like, subscribe, and follow BeerWise on your favorite podcast platform, so you don’t miss an episode. Also, please remember to review the show on your favorite podcast platform to help us reach new audiences.

Florida Beer News and this podcast are now on PATREON! I have begun new fundraising efforts for the website and podcast in hopes of making some updates and changes. Check out patreon dot com slash Florida Beer News spelled out for information on how you and your business can help fuel our growth and get some cool rewards.

Thanks for joining us in the journey of the BeerWise Podcast, hosted by Mark DeNote – editor of Florida Beer News.

If you like the podcast, please tell someone. If you have constructive feedback or a guest you’d like to hear on the show, please email mark at floridabeernews dot com or follow the “Contact Us” link on the Florida Beer News website.

For more episodes, follow Florida Beer News on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and your favorite podcast platform!

Send us Fan Mail

David Nilsen, the mind behind "Pairing Beer and Chocolate," joins the BeerWise podcast and takes us on a flavor journey, challenging preconceived notions of traditional pairings. Discover how David’s unique path, from hosting a pairing series to launching his podcast, Bean to Barstool, led him to unravel the rich tapestry of flavors found in the unlikely union of craft beer and chocolate. Together, we peel back the layers of complexity in these pairings, blending science, culture, and taste in a way that flips conventional wisdom on its head.

Navigating the flavorful landscape of beer and chocolate isn't always smooth sailing. Thanks to the bitter-sweet interplay these two robust ingredients bring to the table, we dissect why some pairings soar while others sputter. From palate fatigue to balancing bitterness with sweetness, the art of pairing becomes both a challenge and a passion, sparking newfound insights into familiar processes. Let our personal rating system guide you through this gustatory adventure—one that might just inspire you to explore your own culinary curiosities.

In the rapidly expanding world of craft chocolate, parallels to the craft beer boom are impossible to ignore. We explore the evolving narrative of this burgeoning industry, where strategic collaborations and storytelling are as essential as the cacao itself. Featuring tales of chocolate-beer fusion from places like French Broad Chocolates, we illustrate how these gourmet endeavors are more than mere trends—they're a celebration of authenticity and craftsmanship. Tune in to find out how the intersection of beer, chocolate, and curiosity-driven careers offers a rich, layered experience waiting to be savored.
______________________________________________________________

Please remember to like, subscribe, and follow BeerWise on your favorite podcast platform, so you don’t miss an episode. Also, please remember to review the show on your favorite podcast platform to help us reach new audiences.

Florida Beer News and this podcast are now on PATREON! I have begun new fundraising efforts for the website and podcast in hopes of making some updates and changes. Check out patreon dot com slash Florida Beer News spelled out for information on how you and your business can help fuel our growth and get some cool rewards.

Thanks for joining us in the journey of the BeerWise Podcast, hosted by Mark DeNote – editor of Florida Beer News.

If you like the podcast, please tell someone. If you have constructive feedback or a guest you’d like to hear on the show, please email mark at floridabeernews dot com or follow the “Contact Us” link on the Florida Beer News website.

For more episodes, follow Florida Beer News on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and your favorite podcast platform!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Mark is joined by Geordi Rauch, Vic Falck, & Jason Thompson of Calusa Brewing. Calusa Brewing is a powerhouse in the Sarasota area – the brewery that always seems to have something new and something traditional on tap. In this episode, the guys discuss the origins of Calusa, opening day, and leaving the original taproom on Derek Ave for their new digs on McIntosh Road in Sarasota in early 2024. 

This episode was recorded in February of 2024 when the brewery had recently opened the new taproom.

Please remember to like, subscribe, and follow BeerWise on your favorite podcast platform, so you don’t miss an episode. Also, please remember to review the show on your favorite podcast platform to help us reach new audiences. 

Florida Beer News and this podcast are now on PATREON! I have begun new fundraising efforts for the website and podcast in hopes of making some updates and changes. Check out patreon dot com slash Florida Beer News spelled out for information on how you and your business can help fuel our growth and get some cool rewards. 

Thanks for joining us in the journey of the BeerWise Podcast, hosted by Mark DeNote – editor of Florida Beer News. 

If you like the podcast, please tell someone. If you have constructive feedback or a guest you’d like to hear on the show, please email mark at floridabeernews dot com or follow the “Contact Us” link on the Florida Beer News website.

For more episodes, follow Florida Beer News on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and your favorite podcast platform!