Welcome back to The DC Beer Show, where our hosts are ringing in 2025 with frothy excitement and a lineup you won’t want to miss. This episode is jam-packed with news, events, and brews that are bound to tickle your taste buds. 

First off, Jake introduces our newly launched “Beer of the Month” collaboration with The Brew Shop in Arlington. Kicking things off in style, we spotlight Sojourn Fermentory's "Midnight Dark Lager," a Czech-inspired gem chosen by Michael Stein and notable for its complexity.

We're not just about the booze, though! For those participating in Dry January, The Brew Shop is rolling out an array of non-alcoholic options, including beers, ciders, wines, and even cocktails. Plus, they’re gearing up for their 9th birthday bash on January 24th, where they'll debut "Uninterrupted Prosperity," a West Coast IPA brewed in collaboration with Ocelot Brewery.

Patreon perks alert! DC Beer Patreon members get a sweet 10% discount on the beer of the month and draft beer purchases. We also raise a glass to new Patreon members Jared Prager and Adam Frank for their awesome support.

Join our hosts as they dive into their current sips, highlighting some standout brews from Other Half Brewing while recording on-location. From hoppy low-alcohol beers and a nearly non-alcoholic stout to the Japanese-style rice lager "Motueka Snaps," and the multifaceted "Triple Broccoli" IPA, there's a lot of liquid love to go around.

Looking ahead, we’ve got a slew of events lined up, including a heavy month of activities with a special Women’s Brew Culture Club event at Port City, organized by our very own Brandy Holder. And mark your calendars for February, folks! We’re buzzing about the "Love Thy Beer" event in Silver Spring on February 7th and the "Black Breweries of the DMV" event at metrobar on February 8th.

Also on the horizon: a tantalizing new release by Lost Nomad brewed at DC Brau, made with wild yeast from West Africa. And keep an eye out for Henceforth, a new brewery filling the former H Street Country Club space with a cream ale that’s already won us over.

We wrap up on a nostalgic note, reminiscing about our show's beginnings at Hellbender, and looking forward to Urban Gardens opening soon.

Don't miss the details on new projects at Right Proper Brewery and Sangfrois’ distillery expansion in Takoma Park. Exciting times ahead in the local brewing scene!

Grab a cold brew, sit back, and join us for a toast: "Cheers" to 2025!

Welcome back to the DC Beer Show! In this episode, our hosts Mike, Brandy, and Jake dive deep into the heart of the DC craft beer scene with an engaging conversation and a touching farewell to a local brewery. The gang kicks things off with their beverages of choice—Brandy's savoring some leftover Prosecco, Michael is classily sipping on Schönramer Hell, and Jacob is enjoying a pre-Prohibition lager from Lost Generation.

The episode takes an emotional turn as the hosts lament the closing of Hellbender Brewing Company, a neighborhood staple that's been a haven for beer lovers for the past decade. Brandy shares her heartfelt sadness, emphasizing the community's loss and the brewery's triumphant journey through various challenges. Michael takes a nostalgic trip, reflecting on how brewery closures impact the local craft beer landscape.

But it's not all gloom and doom! The spotlight turns to Phil Runco, the mastermind behind the highly anticipated "2024 Beer In Review." Phil discusses the meticulous process of collecting insights from local brewers and industry insiders to create a comprehensive snapshot of the year's best beers, trends, and breweries. With 20 contributors from Maryland, Virginia, and DC, this year’s review promises an enthralling read with standout mentions like Blind House Brewing in Roanoke, Virginia.

Jake and Mike quiz Phil on his personal favorites and his editorial adventures, including wrangling up-to-date photos of each participant. Through shared laughs and stories, Phil reveals some intriguing trends like the resurgence of craft lagers and the ever-evolving style of West Coast IPAs. His insights spark a lively discussion on whether the local beer scene is rebounding post-pandemic.

As we sail into the end of 2024, Brandy and Jake look forward to upcoming beer events, including Denizens' holiday karaoke night and a cozy beer share at Right Proper Brookland. Plus, they're organizing a winter clothes drive in collaboration with the H3 Project, reminding us all of the spirit of giving.

This episode celebrates the resilience, passion, and camaraderie that define the DC craft beer community. So cheers to another year of great brews and even better friends. Grab yourself a cold one, settle in, and enjoy this fantastic episode of The DC Beer Show!

Welcome back to The DC Beer Show! This week, our hosts Michael Stein, Jacob Berg, and Brandy Holder take you on a flavorful journey with brewery aficionado Joel Geier. Renowned for his extensive "brewery travels," Joel shares his adventures and insights from visiting a staggering 1,367 breweries across all 50 states, and yes, that includes our very own Washington D.C.!

Joel's new book, "Flights Across America" will be out December 17 and is available for pre-order now.

Joel kicks off by reminiscing about his early love for craft beer, sparked by his father’s influence and further ignited during his college years. His move to Oregon with his wife opened new beer horizons, and their subsequent relocation to Milwaukee became a springboard for documenting his brewery escapades via his popular Twitter account, "brewery travels."

Ever wonder what it's like to dive into the craft beer scenes across America? Joel’s wife, working as a travel nurse, allowed them to crisscross the country, pushing his brewery counts through the roof. They’ve lived in 14 states over 9 years, each stint providing new local brewery experiences. Joel’s dedication led to his first book, "Flights Across America," where he showcases over 400 brewery visits expanded to include an awesome 200 breweries in Wisconsin alone!

Did you know Joel's kids tag along on these beer quests? That's right, he's a big advocate for responsibly managed kid-friendly taprooms, sharing touching stories of family outings with breweries providing inclusive, family-centric atmospheres.

As the conversation flows, Joel spills his Milwaukee favorites—shoutout to the affordable and varied beers from Lakefront and 3rd Space, the latter celebrated for its wins at the Great American Beer Festival. And who can forget the beloved New Glarus beers?

It's not just about the brews; Joel appreciates the historical and community fervor attached to each taproom and brewski stop. His methodical approach to note-taking and storytelling keeps listeners hanging on every word.

The hosts also dive into upcoming DC beer events that you won't want to miss. They hype up trivia nights at Other Half, celebrate Right Proper’s 11th anniversary with a diverse lineup of events, and the infectious festive vibes at Wheatland Spring holiday markets complete with live music. And don’t forget to grab your tickets to the 12 Beers of Christmas at Metro Bar!

They even touch on a poignant story of entrepreneurial spirit and community support: Avery Swanson’s quest to open her brewery amidst financial setbacks, with a fundraiser pouring Keeping Together beers at the Sovereign.

Lastly, our hosts chat about their drink picks, Jacob's beer trade tales, and passionate sips from favorite brews. They leave you with a heartfelt nudge to contribute to the DC beer scene through their Patreon, nurturing the metro area’s craft beer culture.

So, pour yourself a frothy pint, kick back, and hop aboard another enriching episode of The DC Beer Show! Cheers! 🍻

Welcome back to The DC Beer Show! Today, our hosts dive into the vibrant Hagerstown beer scene with special insights from Derek Siewert and Jake Beamer of Thick-N-Thin Brewing.

The episode kicks off with our hosts sharing their current beer choices—Jordan Harvey is savoring the hop-loaded "Homecoming Volume 2" from Harvey Wilder and Third Hill, Brandy Holder is enjoying a robust porter from Dynasty, and Jacob Berg has just picked up a crisp Lakeview Lager from Hamburg Brewing Company in New York.

We then express our deep gratitude for Veterans Day, acknowledging the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women.

Amidst shout-outs to new Patreon members Fabio Garcia, Michael O’Connor, and Jeff, the hosts announce exciting events: a beer share at Atlas Brew Works on November 17 and a tantalizing German gravity keg event at Shelter at the Roost on November 16. The Beery Godmother returns to DC on November 24 with a special beer release at Right Proper Brewing Company!

As the conversation turns to beers, Derek proudly introduces us to Thick-N-Thin's latest concoctions. Get ready to hear about "Glamp Site" and "Halfling Beer." Derek also teases a luscious imperial stout on Nitro, perfect for the colder weather.

The brewery’s experiential approach shines through with unique events and quirky brews like the bourbon barrel-aged "Quest Master," "F-Bomb" fruited sours, and the whimsically named "Blue Sharknado." Beer enthusiasts are encouraged to explore these limited releases at the taproom in Hagerstown. Derek shares Thick-N-Thin's collaboration within the Frederick and Hagerstown brewing community and their new food truck Blue Boar Kitchen.

Excitement builds around upcoming beer education events, including an off-flavor class at Churchkey.

Our hosts wrap up with personal plans for Thanksgiving beer pairings—Jordan looks forward to lagers by the fire pit, while Jacob suggests pairing Saison DuPont with the feast and using an imperial stout for dessert.

So grab your favorite brew, settle in, and join us for another insightful and entertaining episode of The DC Beer Show!

Welcome back to The DC Beer Show, your go-to source for everything craft beer in the DC area! In this enlightening episode, our host, Michael Stein, is joined by an illustrious panel featuring Christian Gregory, John Sten, Justin Hawke, and Ryan Dorosky, recorded live at Snallygaster 2024. 

Together, they navigate the intricate web of beer importing, exporting, and the evolving craft beer landscape. Justin Hawke dives straight into the heart of brewing, blending California innovation with German natural techniques and British real ale traditions. The result? Delightfully sessionable beers with classic styles and natural carbonation, perfect for any occasion.

Meanwhile, Christian Gregory brings an interesting twist to the conversation, shedding light on the rising trend of traditional Lambic beers. These nuanced, balanced brews are winning over wine and cider enthusiasts, signaling a shift towards more refined palates and away from gimmicky beer trends.

Michael Stein then raises the alarm about a potential decline in new European brands entering the U.S. market. He stresses the need to breathe new life into existing brands and lure consumers back from the clutches of RTD cocktails and hard seltzers.

Our discussion then delves into the fascinating world of beer export challenges, with a special shoutout to a Moldovan brewer's intricate experiences with local regulations. Christian Gregory shares remarkable insights on varying export hurdles across destinations, from minimal paperwork when exporting to the EU to the extensive lab tests required for Brazil.

Justin emphasizes the paramount importance of respecting and maintaining classic beer styles that have stood the test of time, a sentiment echoed by all. Ryan Dorosky chimes in with insights on state-level distribution challenges, pointing out the added complexity on the international front. From the surprising popularity of certain beer brands in South Korea and Russia to the critical need for accurate demand forecasting, he covers it all.

One particularly interesting point was the logistical headache of returning empty kegs to their breweries. A growing solution? One-way recyclable kegs, reducing both environmental impact and logistical nightmares. Christian Gregory even shares a personal account of substantial capital being tied up in unreturned kegs.

Our engaging chat winds down with a hearty acknowledgment of all participants and a big thank you to our loyal listeners. 

So, grab your favorite brew, get cozy, and enjoy another fantastic episode of The DC Beer Show! Cheers!

This very special episode of The DC Beer Show was recorded LIVE at Snallygaster 2024 and is hosted by Andy MacWilliams, DC Beer Member and namesake of DC Beer's "Andy Award."

Andy leads a panel of outstanding brewery owners and professionals, including:

• Adam Goodwin, Founder and Head Brewer at Charles Towne Fermentory in Charleston, South Carolina.
• Jeff Cozzens, Co-Founder of Schilling Beer Company in Littleton, New Hampshire.
• Frank Zagami, Co-founder and Co-owner of Deciduous Brewing Company in New Market, New Hampshire.
• Dan Modica, Sales Director at Chicago's Dovetail Brewery in Chicago, Illinois.
• Jeramy Biggie, Co-founder and Co-owner of Commonwealth Brewing Company in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Snallygaster raises funds for the Arcadia Center for Sustainable Food & Agriculture. Arcadia cultivates vibrant local food systems that prioritize health, equity, and sustainability from the farm forward. Learn more at ArcadiaFood.org

We hope you enjoy this very special LIVE episode.
Support DC Beer at Patreon.com/DCBeer to receive more outstanding content like this.

Welcome back to The DC Beer Show! Our lively hosts Michael Stein, Brandy Holder, and Jacob Berg are joined by special guests Josh and Jenna Chapman of Upweller for a flavorful and fascinating episode.

Kicking things off, Michael sips on Plank beer Dunkle Weitzenbach, Brandy delights in a medley of 838 Irish stout, Proper IPA, and service Hellas Lager from Wheatland Spring, while Jacob explores Bright Side, an American style lager that might make it to Snally!

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of Upweller and their innovative approach to brewing. Josh Chapman shares his heartfelt connection to his brews, likening them to children, while revealing exciting details about their latest creation, "How Bout It," an American lager brewed with a unique heirloom corn from Maryland. The hosts engage with Josh on the surreal experience of brewing in new locations, reflecting on the challenges and adjustments made due to differences in water quality.

We're also hyped about the Snallygaster Festival! Our hosts are prepping a revamped DC Beer Show podcast stage, and Michael Stein can't wait to taste special beer offerings at the fest. Josh and Jenna are equally thrilled, looking forward to showcasing their sustainable brews, with ingredients like oyster liquor and foraged yellow wood sorrel.

Buckle up for a pre-Snally roadshow with Upweller, set to launch at Right Proper Shaw on October 6th. With four freshly brewed beers, a cheese program, oyster shucking, and Eastern Shore decor, it's a must-attend event for beer lovers. Josh and Jenna's collaboration with The Nature Conservancy adds a layer of eco-consciousness to their work, as they experiment with ingredients like longleaf pine needles and longleaf pine forests for their October Forest Fest.

Before wrapping up, the hosts and guests reminisce about communal experiences at places like Evening Star in Alexandria, underscoring the community spirit in beer brewing. A heartfelt thank you goes out to our listeners for their support and enthusiasm, as we encourage everyone to follow @DCBeer and visit dcbeer.com for the latest updates and events.

So grab your favorite brew, sit back, and tune in for a brew-tiful episode of The DC Beer Show – cheers!

Welcome back to another deliciously engaging episode of The DC Beer Show! Join your hosts Jacob Berg and Brandy Holder as they dive deep into the world of craft beer, joined by an all-star lineup of guests: Sebastian Sauer, Brett Robison, Christian Layke, and Chris Bonnell!

Today's episode kicks off with a quick rundown of Oktoberfest events. Then Jake and Brandy sit down with the guys from Silver Branch Brewing Company to talk about their evolution into a hospitality brand specializing in beer and pizza. Silver Branch is raising money to open a new location in Rockville, which will allow them to expand their wholesale operation and do more and bigger events in Silver Spring. Read all about it at DCBeer.com. You can help fund it at https://invest.honeycombcredit.com/campaigns/silver-branch-brewing-company.

Then Jake talks to the founder of Freigeist Bierkultur, Sebastian Sauer, for a fascinating look into the beers he's helping to deliver to Snallygaster from Franconia in northern Bavaria.

Cheers to great beers and even better conversations!

Welcome back to The DC Beer Show, where hosts Mike Stein, Brandy Holder, and Jake Berg, along with their special guest Greg Engert, give you the ultimate preview of the highly anticipated Snallygaster beer festival in this exciting episode!

We start with a tantalizing overview of what’s brewing for this year's Snallygaster. This year’s fest promises to feature a unique mix of international beers that aren’t easily found locally, making it a huge draw for beer enthusiasts.

Jake Berg points out that Snallygaster brings diverse beer selections and supports a good cause: fundraising for Arcadia Farm. Mike Stein reflects on last year’s event and emphasizes the value of networking, learning, and experiencing the craft beer industry up close. Panels packed with insights and an array of unique, rare beers aim to make this year even better.

We learn about some breweries pouring at Snallygaster, like Peter Allen and CLAG from Ohio. Plus, Greg Engert hints at some fascinating potential collaborations and special events, including Churchkey's 15th-anniversary bash. Who doesn’t love an opportunity to taste some obscure German beer styles and maybe even stumble upon a gravity cask or two?

Weather plays a crucial role too, with good forecasts boosting ticket sales. Despite past rains, attendance has remained strong, proving how dedicated Snally fans really are. Oh, and let's not forget those themed swag items—this year’s early '80s MTV theme is bound to be a hit!

Our hosts also share their current beer favorites, with Mike savoring an English stout and Brandy rallying for more brown ales (hashtag #brownalesforBrandy). Everyone is drinking something special, from Marlene’s Berlinerweisser to Montucky Cold Snack, setting the laid-back tone for the lively discussions.

As we wrap things up, there's a nod to the various behind-the-scenes efforts. Kudos go to key organizers like Tim Lu and Bruno Simoes for making Snallygaster a standout event, year after year.

So, grab a cold beer, get cozy, and tune in for a preview packed with fun, facts, and flavors as we gear up for the Snallygaster extravaganza on The DC Beer Show!

Welcome back to the DC Beer Show! This episode, DCBS-106, is brimming with beer buzz and culinary delights as our hosts Brandy Holder, Michael Stein, and Jacob Berg dive into the vibrant beer scene with esteemed guests Chef Janny Kim and head brewer Rob Fink from Jailbreak Brewing Company. 

First, the hosts catch up on their latest beer escapades, with Brandy sharing her love for Other Half's boxcar and Mike toasting with a Dovetail pils. Jacob takes it up a notch with the Sunrider Imperial Pilsner from Dynasty Brewery, gearing up for their anniversary bash in Ashburn.

The convo shifts to Jailbreak Brewing Company's exciting blend of top-notch beers and gourmet cuisine. Chef Janny Kim spills the beans on joining Jailbreak and elevating their food game with Michelin-quality dishes in an office park setting. Meanwhile, Rob Fink elaborates on how impeccable food influences his brewing creativity, making everything from everyday wings to dry-aged tuna sing in harmony with their beers.

The hosts can't help but gush over upcoming events, like Snallygaster, and local brewery happenings, including a festive October Forest Fest in Powhatan, Virginia, and a big beer release party at Penn Druid in Sperryville. They stress the importance of connecting with your community brewers and indulging in these awesome local celebrations.

The episode rounds out with a heartfelt thank you to the Jailbreak team for their hospitality and a reminder for listeners to support their local beer scenes. Plus, a special shout-out to their Patreon supporters—because the love of beer is best shared together.

So, grab your favorite pour, settle in, and let's toast to another fantastic episode of The DC Beer Show! Cheers!