Spill The Pint Podcast – Episode 17 | Six String in Administration, Toronado Up for Sale & The Barrel-Aged Beer Debate

In Episode 17 of Spill The Pint, things are a little different as Adsy welcomes Jett from Happy Valley Brewing into the co-host chair while Matt is away. The result is another episode packed with craft beer conversation, Australian beer industry news, brewery insights, and the kind of debates that only beer people can turn into a full courtroom trial.

We kick things off with a quick announcement about Jett joining the show before diving into Matt's Cellared Beers, featuring another release from Aether Brewing, and then straight into the latest Pub Court verdict.

Last week's case, #PC016, asked whether collaboration beers are genuine creative partnerships or simply Instagram content disguised as beer releases. The jury delivered a strong result, with 72% voting that collaboration beers are genuine creative partnerships, suggesting most drinkers still see value in breweries working together to create something unique rather than simply generating marketing buzz.

In Australian craft beer news, we discuss the significant news that Six String Brewing has entered voluntary administration, marking another challenging chapter for a brewery that helped shape the Central Coast craft beer scene. We unpack what this could mean for the brewery, its customers, and the wider industry as economic pressures continue to impact independent breweries around the country.

In international beer news, we look at the sale of one of the world's most influential beer venues, with Toronado in San Francisco being placed on the market after more than 40 years. Widely regarded as one of the most important craft beer bars in the United States, the venue has played a major role in shaping beer culture and introducing drinkers to independent breweries from around the world.

Our Brewery Visit Wishlist returns with a diverse collection of destinations. Adsy's pick is Brewfist in Italy, known for helping drive modern craft beer in the country. Matt's choice remains the legendary St James's Gate Brewery in Ireland, home of Guinness and one of the most iconic brewery experiences in the world. Filling in for the week, Jett nominates Pilsner Urquell in Prague and Stone Brewing, two breweries that have had an enormous influence on modern brewing and beer culture.

This week's Pub Court case, sponsored by Thirsty Merchants, asks whether barrel ageing is becoming the beer equivalent of putting truffle oil on everything. Does barrel ageing create genuine complexity and elevate a beer, or has it become a fashionable technique that is sometimes applied whether the beer needs it or not?

To wrap things up, Jett gives the Industry Legend Shout Out to JD from Padre Brewing, recognising his contribution to the brewing industry and the Australian craft beer community.

If you enjoy craft beer podcasts, Australian beer news, brewery industry insights, brewing discussions, and honest conversations about beer culture, grab a drink and join us for another episode of Spill The Pint.

You can also join the conversation in our community here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/aussiebeervoyage/

Spill The Pint Podcast – Episode 16 | Helios Returns, The Indies Reinvented, Light Beer Growth & The Collaboration Beer Debate

In Episode 16 of Spill The Pint, Adsy and Matt are back with more craft beer conversation, Australian beer industry news, brewery insights, and the topics keeping beer drinkers talking across Australia and beyond.

We kick things off with Matt's Cellared Beers, featuring a Wet Hop American Pale Ale from Brew Baron Beer Co, before diving into the latest Pub Court verdict.

Last week's case, #PC015, asked whether the Australian craft beer scene has become too cliquey. Is it a gatekeeping culture or simply a tight-knit niche community? The jury delivered a unanimous result, with 100% voting that it remains a tight niche community rather than an exclusive clique. We discuss what that says about the industry, the relationships within it, and whether perceptions from outside the scene match reality.

In Australian craft beer news, we discuss the surprising return of Helios Brewing, whose taproom has reopened just five weeks after what appeared to be a month-long farewell and closing-down celebration. We unpack the reaction from the community and what this could mean for the brewery moving forward. We also discuss the announcement that the Independent Brewers Association is bringing back the Indies Awards in 2027, albeit in a very different format focused on celebrating the people behind Australian beer rather than judging beer itself.

In international beer news, we look at an emerging trend in the United States where consumers are increasingly embracing lighter beer styles, suggesting the pendulum may be swinging away from bigger and bolder offerings. We also revisit a pivotal moment in beer history, discussing how a beer released more than two decades ago helped ignite the New England IPA revolution, a style that continues to influence brewery tap lists around the world today.

Our Brewery Visit Wishlist returns with two destinations that couldn't be much further apart geographically. Adsy's pick is Hops Haus in Bangalore, India, a brewery helping shape the country's growing craft beer scene, while Matt chooses 40FT Brewery in London, known for producing beer from a unique shipping container-based facility.

This week's Pub Court case, sponsored by Thirsty Merchants, asks whether collaboration beers are mostly marketing exercises rather than genuinely better beers. Are brewery collaborations creative partnerships that push brewing boundaries, or have they become little more than content for social media feeds?

To wrap things up, Adsy gives the Industry Legend Shout Out to Matt Emmerson from Brewski and My Beer Dealer, recognising his contribution to the brewing industry and support of the wider beer community.

If you enjoy craft beer podcasts, Australian beer news, brewery industry insights, brewing discussions, and honest conversations about beer culture, grab a drink and join us for another episode of Spill The Pint.

You can also join the conversation in our community here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/aussiebeervoyage/

Spill The Pint Podcast – Episode 15 | Beer Awards Verdict, BrewDog Investor Drama, Ancient Beer Discovery & Craft Beer Clique Debate

In Episode 15 of Spill The Pint, Adsy and Matt are back with more craft beer conversation, Australian beer industry news, brewery discussion, and pub-level debates from around the beer world.

We kick things off with another edition of Matt’s Cellared Beers, before diving straight into the latest Pub Court verdict.

Last week’s case, #PC014, asked whether beer awards should remove categories that receive too few entries in order to keep medals meaningful, or whether doing so would unfairly punish niche beer styles. The jury delivered a unanimous result, with 100 percent voting that removing categories would be unfair to niche styles, highlighting the importance of diversity and experimentation within craft beer.

In Australian craft beer news, we discuss the noticeable increase in breweries advertising for staff, and whether it reflects signs of change in the industry or simply the normal movement and rotation of brewers between venues. We also touch on a recent GABS social media post that left plenty of people speculating about what might be next for the brand and where Australia’s biggest beer festival could be heading in the future.

We also look at the upcoming Outback Beer Festival, featuring live music from Shannon Noll and bringing craft beer culture into one of South Australia’s iconic rural pub settings.

In international beer news, we unpack concerns from BrewDog investors, who have reportedly expressed scepticism after one of the brewery’s founders announced plans to launch a new beer brand. It raises questions around loyalty, ownership, and confidence in major craft beer businesses. We also discuss the discovery of a 2300 year old bottle of beer, because apparently even ancient civilisations understood the importance of preserving a good drop.

Our Brewery Visit Wishlist returns with two very different destinations. Adsy’s pick is the legendary and almost impossible-to-visit BrewCult, while Matt chooses Svalbard Brewery in Norway, one of the northernmost breweries in the world.

This week’s Pub Court case, sponsored by Thirsty Merchants, asks whether the Australian craft beer scene has become too cliquey. Is it simply a tight knit niche community, or has it drifted too far into gatekeeping culture?

To wrap things up, Matt gives the Industry Legend Shout Out to Jimmy from Milton Common, recognising his contribution to the brewing industry and local beer community.

If you enjoy craft beer podcasts, Australian beer news, brewery industry insights, and honest conversations about beer culture, grab a drink and join us for another episode of Spill The Pint.

You can also join the conversation in our community here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/aussiebeervoyage/

In Episode 14 of Spill The Pint, Adsy and Matt return with more craft beer discussion, brewery industry news, Australian beer culture, and the debates keeping the taps flowing.

We kick things off with Matt’s Cellared Beers, featuring Aether Oak & Organisms, before diving into the latest Pub Court verdict.

Last week’s case, #PC013, asked whether venues should be forced to disclose beer line cleaning dates for taps as a matter of consumer rights or whether it is simply unnecessary overkill. The jury delivered a split result, with 39 percent supporting consumer transparency, while 61 percent voted that mandatory disclosure would be over the top. We unpack the arguments around beer quality, venue expectations, and how much information drinkers really need.

In Australian craft beer news, we discuss the new TAFE Queensland yeast husbandry skill set, which is being offered fee free for people working in the brewing industry, helping breweries improve technical knowledge and fermentation quality. We also record during the night of the Australian International Beer Awards, discussing the significance of the AIBAs and what they mean for breweries chasing recognition on one of the biggest stages in beer.

We also look at plans for the Big Pineapple precinct, which has secured a major grant as part of a broader redevelopment and is now set to include a new brewery as part of a reported ten million dollar makeover.

In international beer news, we discuss an article asking brewers which beer styles are effectively “dead” in 2026, sparking a conversation around changing consumer tastes and whether certain styles can make a comeback. We also explore one of the stranger beer science stories of the year, with researchers investigating whether spent beer waste could eventually be used as a sunscreen ingredient.

Our Brewery Visit Wishlist returns with two highly respected destinations. Adsy’s pick is Jester King Brewery in Texas, known globally for farmhouse ales and mixed fermentation beers, while Matt chooses the historic Anchor Brewing in San Francisco, one of the foundational breweries of the American craft beer movement.

This week’s Pub Court case, sponsored by Thirsty Merchants, asks whether beer awards should remove categories that do not receive a minimum number of entries. Does this help keep medals meaningful and competitive, or is it unfair to niche beer styles that naturally attract fewer breweries?

To close out the episode, Adsy gives the Industry Legend Shout Out to Karen from Ryefield Hops, recognising her contribution to the brewing industry and support of Australian brewers.

If you enjoy craft beer podcasts, Australian beer news, brewery industry insights, and honest conversations about beer culture, grab a drink and join us for another episode of Spill The Pint.

You can also join the conversation in our community here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/aussiebeervoyage/

Spill The Pint Podcast – Episode 13 | Pour Technique Verdict, Victorian Beer Funding, World Beer Cup Wins & Dirty Beer Line Debate

In Episode 13 of Spill The Pint, Adsy and Matt are back with another round of craft beer conversation, Australian beer industry news, brewery discussion, and pub-level debates.

We kick things off with Matt’s Cellared Beers, featuring Black Hops Birthday, before moving into a special announcement that sets the tone for the episode.

Next up is the Pub Court verdict from Case #PC011, which asked whether different beer pour techniques are unnecessary showmanship or whether they genuinely impact aroma and flavour. The jury delivered another unanimous decision, with 100 percent voting that pour techniques are a legitimate quality metric and should be used when appropriate. We unpack why serving technique matters more than many drinkers realise and where the line sits between presentation and performance.

In Australian craft beer news, we discuss the announcement that the Victorian Craft Beer and Cider Strategy has secured funding for the 2026/27 financial year, a major positive sign for the industry and local producers. We also look at Good Drinks Australia reaching a significant milestone, bucking wider industry trends at a time when many breweries are facing tough conditions.

In international beer news, we cover results from the World Beer Cup, where brewers from Northern Virginia cleaned up with multiple awards, although the region still was not the highest awarded state overall. We also take a look at the return of SMASH Split Beer Fest in Croatia, a festival celebrating single malt and single hop brewing creativity.

Our Brewery Visit Wishlist returns with two iconic destinations. Adsy’s pick is Welde Brewery in Germany, known for its distinctive branding and brewing history, while Matt chooses the legendary Cantillon Brewery in Belgium, one of the world’s most respected lambic producers.

This week’s Pub Court case, File #PC012, asks whether venues should be required to disclose beer line cleaning dates for taps. Is this an important consumer right tied to beer quality and transparency, or is it unnecessary overkill for venues already under pressure?

To finish the episode, Matt gives the Industry Legend Shout Out to Fergus from Cryer, recognising his contribution to the brewing industry and support of the beer community.

In The Last Word, we say goodbye to Helios Brewing, reflecting on another brewery closure and what it means for the Australian craft beer landscape.

If you enjoy craft beer podcasts, Australian beer news, brewery industry insights, and honest conversations about beer culture, grab a drink and join us for another episode of Spill The Pint.

You can also join the conversation in our community here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/aussiebeervoyage/

Spill The Pint Podcast – Episode 12 | Booking Fee Verdict, AI Brewing Tech, Japanese Pour Debate & WA Brewery Wishlists

In Episode 12 of Spill The Pint, Adsy and Matt are back with more craft beer conversation, Australian beer industry news, and the debates shaping beer culture right now.

We kick things off with Matt’s Cellared Beers, featuring Puddin’, an English Barley Wine, and dive into what makes this style stand out and why it earns a place in the cellar.

Next up is the Pub Court verdict from Case #PC010, which asked whether charging a booking fee to reserve a table is a fair way to reduce no-shows or something that does not belong in brewpub culture. The jury delivered a unanimous result, with 100 percent voting that booking fees are not meant for brewpubs, reinforcing the idea that beer venues operate differently to traditional hospitality models.

In Australian craft beer news, we look at how Blind Boy Brewing is redefining accessibility in the craft beer industry, pushing forward ideas that make beer more inclusive and approachable for a wider audience.

In international beer and brewing news, we explore the craft beer scene in Alaska, offering insight into a region that continues to build its identity. We also break down the Japanese “Sharp Pour” technique, a unique serving method that raises questions about whether different pouring styles genuinely impact aroma and flavour or lean more toward theatre. On the tech side, we discuss a new AI powered fermentation sensor system from Sennos, capable of delivering multiple real time measurements, highlighting how technology continues to evolve within brewing operations.

Our Brewery Visit Wishlist returns with a Western Australia focus this week. Adsy’s pick is Phat Brew Club, while Matt is keen to visit Blasta Brewing, both representing strong destinations within the WA craft beer scene.

This week’s Pub Court case tackles another divisive topic: different beer pour techniques. Are they unnecessary and just for showmanship, or do they actually impact aroma, flavour, and the drinking experience?

To wrap things up, Adsy gives the Industry Legend Shout Out to Jake Harrison from Happy Valley and Stone Curlew, recognising his contribution to the brewing industry.

We close out the episode with The Last Word, touching on the KIBA Awards winners from Queensland and responding to comments from the YouTube community.

If you enjoy craft beer podcasts, Australian beer news, brewery industry insights, and honest conversations about beer culture, grab a drink and join us for another episode of Spill The Pint.

You can also join the conversation in our community here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/aussiebeervoyage/

In Episode 11 of Spill The Pint, Adsy and Matt are back with more craft beer conversation, Australian beer industry news, and the debates shaping modern beer culture.

We kick things off with Matt’s Cellared Beers, featuring the Old Working Title Wheat Wine, diving into what makes this style stand out and why it is worth pulling from the cellar.

Next up is the Pub Court verdict from Case #PC009, which asked whether breweries pivoting into cocktails and wine is a smart move or a sign of losing identity. The jury delivered a unanimous decision, with 100 percent voting that it is a survival strategy, highlighting just how much the industry is evolving in response to changing consumer behaviour and market pressures.

In Australian craft beer news, we revisit the growing conversation around AI generated artwork in beer branding, with insights into how technology is starting to reshape design and creativity in the industry. We also discuss rumours and reports around Big Shed Brewing recipes potentially being offered for sale, raising questions about intellectual property and what happens to a brewery’s legacy.

In international beer and brewing news, we look at developments in Canadian food technology, where AI is again intersecting with brewing and production processes. We also explore data showing that the brewpub model has declined the least in the United States, with many venues holding steady or even growing through 2025, suggesting that on-premise experiences may be more resilient than other parts of the industry.

Our Brewery Visit Wishlist returns with two standout destinations. Adsy’s pick is Kiuchi Brewery in Japan, home of the well known Hitachino Nest beers, while Matt is keen to visit Garage Project in New Zealand, one of the most creative and influential breweries in the region.

This week’s Pub Court case, File #PC010, tackles a topic more venues are starting to explore: charging a booking fee to reserve a table. Is it a fair way to reduce no-shows like restaurants have done, or does it go against the culture of brewpubs and casual beer venues?

To wrap things up, Matt gives this episode’s Industry Legend Shout Out to Stephen from Neumaker, recognising his contribution to the brewing industry and ongoing support of the beer community.

If you enjoy craft beer podcasts, Australian beer news, brewery industry insights, and honest conversations about beer culture, grab a drink and join us for another episode of Spill The Pint.

You can also join the conversation in our community here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/aussiebeervoyage/

In Episode 10 of Spill The Pint, Adsy and Matt are back with more craft beer conversation, Australian beer industry news, and pub debates that keep the taps flowing.

We kick things off with Matt’s Cellared Beers, taking a look at Mash Brewing’s Copy Cat IPA and diving into what makes it worth pulling from the stash.

Next up is the Pub Court verdict from Case #PC008, where the jury was asked whether 440ml cans represent better value for money or a sneaky margin play. The result came through strongly, with 84 percent of voters saying it is better value for money, suggesting drinkers are more than happy with the larger format despite ongoing pricing discussions.

In international beer news, we cover a major industry move with Mitch Steele leaving New Realm Brewing, a brewery he founded, to take on the role of Director of Brewing Operations at Abita Brewing. It is a significant shift involving one of the most respected brewers in the game. We also look at how Dogfish Head has found growth again after a period of decline, driven in part by a collaboration with iconic American rock band Grateful Dead, showing how partnerships and brand alignment can reignite momentum.

Back home in Australian craft beer news, we highlight the upcoming Hobart Community Hop Festival, which will showcase fresh hop beers brewed with this year’s harvest. Events like this continue to celebrate seasonality and connect drinkers directly with the ingredients behind their beer.

We also tackle a tougher topic with recent brewery closures, including Helios and Hoppers, and ask whether this is a sign of broader challenges ahead for the industry. Adsy shares thoughts on timing around the 18th and what this could mean moving forward.

Our Brewery Visit Wishlist returns, with Adsy keen to visit Evil Twin Brewing in New York, known for its boundary pushing beers and branding, while Matt sets his sights on Beck’s Brewery in Bremen, Germany, one of the most historically recognised breweries in the world.

This week’s Pub Court case, File #PC009, explores whether breweries expanding into cocktails and wine is a smart survival strategy in a changing market or a move that risks losing their core identity as beer focused businesses.

To wrap things up, Adsy gives this episode’s Industry Legend Shout Out to Jezza from Precinct Brewing, recognising his contribution to the brewing industry and the wider beer community.

If you enjoy craft beer podcasts, Australian beer news, brewery industry insights, and honest conversations about beer culture, grab a drink and join us for another episode of Spill The Pint.

You can also join the conversation in our community here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/aussiebeervoyage/

Spill The Pint Podcast – Episode 9 | “Limited” Beer Verdict, Vaccine Beer, Newcastle Beer Fest Sale & 440ml Can Debate

In Episode 9 of Spill The Pint, Adsy and Matt are back with another round of craft beer conversation, Australian beer industry news, and the kind of debates that get settled best over a pint.

We kick things off with the Pub Court verdict from Case #PC007, which asked whether calling a beer “limited” while rebrewing it regularly is fair or misleading. The jury delivered a decisive outcome, with 90 percent voting that it is simply marketing spin, not a true limited release. We break down why this struck a nerve with drinkers and what it says about trust and transparency in the craft beer industry.

In international beer news, we dive into one of the more unusual stories to hit the brewing world, with a scientist reportedly brewing and drinking a vaccine beer that appears to have worked. It is a wild intersection of science and brewing that raises plenty of questions. We also look at the milestone of Italian craft beer surpassing 30 years, exploring how the scene has matured and carved out its own identity on the global stage.

Back home in Australian craft beer news, we discuss a story about someone who has managed to get paid to drink and review beer, and what that says about the growing influence of content, media, and personal branding in the beer space. We also cover the acquisition of the Newcastle Beer Festival by Jerry Schwartz, another sign of consolidation and investment in large scale beer events.

Our Brewery Visit Wishlist returns with two great destinations. Adsy’s pick is Karl Strauss Brewing in San Diego, a pioneer of the American craft beer movement, while Matt is keen to visit the Patagonia Brewery in San Carlos, Argentina, known for its stunning location and unique brewing approach.

This week’s Pub Court case, File #PC008, tackles a topic many drinkers are noticing at the bottle shop and bar: 440ml can price creep. Are these larger cans delivering better value for money, or are breweries quietly increasing margins under the guise of premium packaging?

To wrap things up, Matt gives this episode’s Industry Legend Shout Out to Tom Champion, recognising his contribution to the brewing industry and the wider beer community.

If you enjoy craft beer podcasts, Australian beer news, brewery industry insights, and honest conversations about beer culture, grab a drink and join us for another episode of Spill The Pint.

You can also join the conversation in our community here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/aussiebeervoyage/

In Episode 8 of Spill The Pint, Adsy and Matt are back with more craft beer discussion, Australian beer industry news, and the debates that keep the beer community fired up.

We kick things off with the Pub Court verdict from Case #PC006, which asked whether kids running wild in taprooms is acceptable or not. The jury leaned one way, with 58 percent voting that taprooms are the wrong place for that behaviour, while the rest of the community saw it differently. We unpack where the line sits between family friendly venues and respecting the space.

In international beer news, we explore an innovative step forward in brewing, with Almanac creating a beer carbonated using CO2 captured directly from the air. It is a fascinating look at how sustainability and brewing technology are starting to intersect, and what that could mean for the future of beer production.

Back home in Australian craft beer news, we look at the official launch of QLD Beer Co, backed by a marketing campaign featuring well known Queensland footy identities. We also discuss Better Beer’s latest capital raise of 10 to 15 million dollars, as the brand looks to expand even further and continue its rapid growth in the market.

Adsy also shares a firsthand recap from the Canberra Craft Beer and Cider Festival, including a weekend that involved plenty of kilometres on the road and a few stories along the way.

Our Brewery Visit Wishlist returns with two standout destinations. Adsy’s pick is Meanwood Brewery in Leeds, West Yorkshire, while Matt sets his sights on Westvleteren in Belgium, one of the most sought after and respected breweries in the world.

This week’s Pub Court case, File #PC007, tackles a classic craft beer question. What happens when a brewery calls a beer “limited” but then rebrews it every month? Is it clever marketing spin, or just harmless hype that keeps drinkers engaged?

To close out the episode, Adsy gives the Industry Legend Shout Out to Will Tatchell from Van Dieman Brewing, recognising his contribution to the brewing industry and his impact on the beer community.

If you enjoy craft beer podcasts, Australian beer news, brewery industry insights, and honest conversations about beer culture, grab a drink and join us for another episode of Spill The Pint.

You can also join the conversation in our community here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/aussiebeervoyage/