Welcome back to The DC Beer Show. In this episode, Michael, Brandy, Jacob, and Richard delve into the intersecting worlds of craft beer and culinary finesse with guest Mike Earle.

Mike discusses his approach to integrating food flavors directly from beer ingredients, highlighting his love of Sugar Creek Malting's distinctive smoked malts (and everything smoky). The conversation turns to different smoking techniques for both food and beer, with an amusing side mention of Nut Rolls.

Mike shares his tale about unexpectedly coming across a brewery for sale, leading him to start a crowdfunding effort to purchase the 2-barrel nano brewery he aims to rebrand to Wolf and Bear Beer Company. Reflecting on the challenges of revamping the space to meet brewing standards, he then spotlights his crowdfunding ventures through Indiegogo and WeFunder. You can find out more on his Instagram account, @brewmikeearle.

The episode also nods to the experiences that go into visiting breweries, with Mike expressing his intention to create a sense of community at his establishment. The hosts echo support for his campaigns and the drive for high-quality brewing experiences.

As the session wraps up, Michael, Brandy, Jacob, and Richard reminisce about what a great year it's been for DC Beer, and hint at some things followers and DC Beer patrons can look forward to in 2024.

The beers mentioned in episode 180 are Dynasty's Rules of Civility, Lost Generation Brewing Company's Call The Owl, the House Lager from Forest and Main Brewing Company, Port City Optimal Wit, Port City Porter, Liquid Intrusions Cream Ale, and Bearded Iris HomeStyle IPA.