From a marketing beginning to eventual homebrewing and then a professional career that had him working for one of the best-known German brewers to small outfits where his creativity could flourish, Charlie Cole has been dedicated to craft. 

When the opportunity came along to get involved with Blue Cat, an Illinois brewing institution going back to the 1990s, he jumped at the chance. 

He’s a believer in tradition and forward momentum, of honoring location and history but not settling for the status quo. 

For almost two years now he’s been working to keep the brewery and restaurant moving in a positive way but a series of factors – including many that are familiar to other brewery owners – have made it a tough road to walk. 

At the end of 2022 he had to close, something he hopes is temporary. 

This Episode is Sponsored By:

Athletic Brewing Co.
This episode is brought to you by Athletic Brewing Company – America’s leading non-alcoholic craft brewer. Give Dry a Try this January with Athletic Brewing’s near beers. NEW Athletic customers can receive 20% off their FIRST order of TWO 6-packs or more when they visit athleticbrewing.com and use the code AAB20 at checkout by March 31, 2023.

For more Drink Beer, Think Beer check out All About Beer.

• Host: John Holl
• Guest: Charlie Cole
• Sponsors: Athletic Brewing, All About Beer
• Tags: Beer, Lager, Cucumber, History, Illinois, Restaurant, Labor