The DC Beer Show

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!

In an era where craft beer innovation reigns supreme, there is a potent nostalgia for flavors of the past. The Senate Maerzen beer, a gem originally brewed by Christian Heurich in 1933, has recently been revived, bringing a slice of Washington D.C.'s rich brewing history back into the spotlight. This renaissance of flavor is not merely a passion project; it’s a meticulous blending of historical research and modern brewing techniques, fueled by a team deeply dedicated to bridging the gap between past and present.

Kimberly Totten, an instrumental figure in bringing Senate Maerzen back to life, utilized the extensive Maerzen collections and the detailed notes of Paul Kaiser to recreate the legendary brew. 

The journey began when Kim Bender from the Heurich House reached out to Peter Jones, proposing the resurrection of the Senate Maerzen as a way to reinvigorate and celebrate local brewing heritage. The Heurich House, steeped in history and dedicated to preserving the legacy of Christian Heurich’s brewing empire, viewed this project as a public history endeavor. 

Chris Broome, another key player in this historic revival, emphasized the distinctiveness of the Senate Maerzen compared to modern Maerzen beers. "The 1933 recipe calls for ingredients that aren’t typically used today, particularly the hops and malt," he noted. "We aimed for a 6% ABV beer that could still invoke the traditional flavor profile while appealing to contemporary palates. We’re thrilled with the result—it is both a nod to history and an enjoyable beer for today’s audience."

The beer embodies a rich historical narrative and represents a significant cultural bridge within the community. The Heurich House's programs, such as the Heurich Urban Manufacturing Incubator and various public history initiatives, foster connections between local history and today's D.C. populace. 

Meanwhile, the excitement surrounding the upcoming Snallygaster festival is palpable, as it will serve as a major showcase for the newly-brewed Senate Maerzen. Brewers and craft beer enthusiasts from all over the region are eager to take in, not just the flavors, but the story encapsulated within each glass.

As they clink glasses in anticipation of Oktoberfest and other forthcoming events, the team behind Senate Maerzen revels in their accomplishment. They’ve not only brewed an impressive beer but have also sewn a bond between D.C.'s brewing past and present—a testament to the timeless allure of a well-crafted pint.

So, next time you lift a glass of Senate Maerzen, remember that you’re not just tasting beer. You’re savoring history, one satisfying sip at a time.

In the ever-evolving world of beer, maintaining a competitive edge can feel like navigating a stormy sea. Dan Kopman, former CEO of Heavy Seas and co-founder of Schlafly Beer, provides a seasoned perspective on the complexities and potential of the brewing industry.

"Early mover advantage is a double-edged sword," Kopman observes, a note of caution in his voice. "It's easy to gain but terribly difficult to maintain." This concept, familiar across various industries, holds particular resonance in the dynamic sphere of craft beer. Companies like Schlafly and Heavy Seas have ridden the initial waves of advantage, setting precedents in the market long before competitors caught wind. However, the real battle lies in sustaining that lead amid a burgeoning crowd of innovative brewers.

Kopman's journey is marked by his significant roles in shaping the beer industry. Notably, he was instrumental in offering acclaimed beers like Young's Pubs' unique brews in London and Schlafly Beer in St. Louis. His broad experience fuels his understanding of the intricate dance between early adoption and lasting impact.

Interestingly, the conversation isn't confined to traditional beer alone. Kopman acknowledges the rising influence of non-alcoholic (NA) beer, a niche that's garnering substantial attention. "Non-alcoholic beer has low penetration in the US compared to other regions," he notes. "But the global growth rate is in the high single digits." This trend suggests an emerging market ripe with possibilities for brewers willing to innovate and cater to changing consumer preferences.

Kopman's insights also extend to broader demographic shifts and their impact on beer consumption. The interplay between immigration patterns and beer sales, for example, underscores the importance of understanding and addressing diverse consumer bases. "Brewers need to broaden their appeal," he advises, highlighting the necessity for cultural inclusivity in marketing strategies.

Moreover, Kopman emphasizes the significance of strategic collaborations and experiential learning. At American University's Kogod School of Business, students engage in capstone projects that transition them into budding consultants. A notable collaboration with Right Proper Brewing Company in DC exemplifies how such partnerships can foster growth and innovation within the industry.

Reflecting on market disruptions, Kopman draws a parallel between the beer industry and the tech world. "Consider the iPhone," he says. "It wasn’t the first smartphone, but it achieved significant volume." Similarly, the NA beer market, while not new, holds potential for substantial growth and mainstream acceptance.

In a rapidly changing market, staying ahead requires a blend of innovation, adaptability, and deep consumer understanding. For Dan Kopman, the journey through the beer landscape is as much about respecting tradition as it is about embracing the new waves of change. His experiences and insights offer valuable lessons for brewers and beer enthusiasts alike, navigating the ever-exciting and often tempestuous waters of the craft beer industry.

Welcome back to The DC Beer Show, your go-to podcast for all things local brew and beyond! In our latest episode, "Random Acts of Brewing Kindness," hosts Michael Stein, Jacob Berg, and Jordan Harvey dive into some frothy conversations with special guests Branden Roth and Steve McIntyre from RAK Brewing. It's an episode brimming with brewing wisdom, heartwarming community vibes, and a few chuckles along the way!

We kick off with Jacob and Michael reminding everyone about the sizzling summer events happening around DC. They can't stress enough—stay hydrated, folks! If you're heading to events like Suarez at Shelter hosted by the Neighborhood Restaurant Group, remember your H2O and, of course, blast that AC.

Branden Roth takes center stage to share his journey through the brewing world, stemming from his stints at Sapwood and Flying Dog to shaping his beer vision for RAK Brewing. He spills the hops on the importance of cleanliness, creativity, and how he juggles equipment constraints while pumping out top-notch hazy IPAs, sours, and mixed fermentation beers.

RAK Brewing is not just about tasty beers but creating a welcoming space. Steve shares their intent behind their name, "Random Acts of Kindness," which aligns with their mission to build community spirit in Frederick, Maryland. They've even revamped their taproom for the coziest beer-drinking experience, where good conversation flows as freely as the brews.

The episode bubbles over with excitement as Branden teases upcoming collabs and events, like a lager and a sour beer bursting with local berries. And don't miss Puckerpalooza, where they'll release a dazzling array of 12 different sours. The hosts can't hide their enthusiasm (or envy) for these intriguing concoctions!

The hosts also highlight some killer events in the pipeline, such as Hellbender's boiler-installed party, Bluejacket's cask beer offerings, and the formidable Snallygaster festival. They don't miss out on singing praises for bus drivers and chat about enhancing transit for better brewery hops in Frederick.

To cap it all off, there are shoutouts to charity events, fundraising efforts, and ways RAK Brewing is giving back to the community. It’s all about beer, community, and kindness—what more could you ask for?

So grab your favorite cold one, pull up a chair, and enjoy another exciting episode of The DC Beer Show. Cheers!

Welcome back to The DC Beer Show! This episode is a deep dive into the ever-evolving world of craft beer with your amiable hosts, Jacob Berg, Michael Stein, and Brandy Holder. They're joined by Justin Desmarais, our insightful guest from Allied Beverages, who has some exciting news and industry secrets to share.

Brandy kicks things off by giving a warm shoutout to Justin and the fantastic reputation Allied has earned within the industry. Justin then takes the mic to introduce us to Allied's unique approach to distribution. He explains the notable difference Allied provides by offering release letters to breweries, ensuring they're not tied down to lifetime contracts, a practice that's indeed refreshing in the DC beer community.

We get a taste of Justin's favorite styles—Czech pils and northern German pils—before diving into what he's currently sipping, a special release from Dovetail, one of the many acclaimed breweries Allied distributes. Allied's fine reputation is further extolled through mentions of brands they proudly distribute, like Fox Farm and Schilling.

Amid the chatter, promising upcoming releases in DC and North Virginia, such as Wayfinder and Fox Farm, grab our hosts' attention, promising us exciting new brews on the horizon.

Brandy reveals her go-to beers: Iron Simms, a peach chamomile saison, and Rights of Spring, a ginger honey lager, both from black-owned breweries—keeping diversity and representation in our glass. Michael shares his love for Senate beer, particularly a historical Senate Mertzen that’s soon to be released.

Jacob, not to be left out, describes the eclectic flavors of Anxo's Quince Dry Cider giving us an impromptu tasting note of its tropical citrusy funk.

An intriguing discussion unfolds about the pandemic's impact on keg sales and the refreshing variety of beers now available. And speaking of closures, we bid a bittersweet farewell to Birch and Barley, a beloved beer-centric fine dining spot, giving way to Mallard—a new venture by chef Hamilton Johnson.

Amid the fun and flavorsome discussions, don't miss the heads-up for the July beer share on Sunday, July 21st, with a special request for brown ales in honor of Brandy's birthday. Plus, a tease of potential guest appearances by Brie, Thor, and Josh over at Right Proper Brookland, rounds off the episode on a rather exciting note.

So pour yourself a cold one, cozy up, and join us for an episode brimming with insights, laughter, and, of course, great beer on The DC Beer Show! And remember, for more on events, join us at dcbeer.com/events or support the cause at dcbeer.com/patreon. Cheers!

Welcome back to The DC Beer Show, where our fabulous hosts Brandy Holder, Michael Stein, Jacob Berg, and Jordan Harvey whisk you away into the dynamic world of craft beer with special guests Jinson Chan and Michael Pawley. 

In this lively episode, the gang has a blast delving into some exciting developments and announcements in the DC beer scene.
The episode kicks off with an open invitation to the beer-loving community to come out and support local breweries, highlighting several significant anniversaries. Of special note, there's a Juneteenth Brew-balee 2024 Culture and Beer Fest organized by Black Brew Movement and the city of Herndon, which has everyone buzzing.

Brandy shares her unbridled love for pickle beer and recounts a fascinating interview with Jinson and Michael, the masterminds behind Sojourn Fermentory. Situated in charming Suffolk, Virginia, Sojourn Fermentory is eagerly eyeing a grand opening at the end of July, born from a playful nudge by Jinson that spurred Michael to embark on his brewing journey. Jinson's role as a cheerleader and motivator shines through as they discuss how their partnership and shared vision came to life.

Jinson adds texture to the story, explaining how his craft beer bar business plan led the team to consider a full-blown brewery. The rich backstory enthralls listeners as Michael Stein queries Mike Pawley on his brewing quest, from the academic halls of Austria to his practical experiences and collaborations, including with Bluejacket.

Brandy dives into a discussion on the resurgence of lagers and Mike's zeal for crafting technically intricate, clean lagers and Belgian beers, echoing the complexities that genuinely ignite his passion. The conversation takes a heartwarming turn when Mike explains the meaning behind "Sojourn" – a place to dwell and build community, reflecting the very essence of their mission.

As always, the hosts indulge in their current consumables, from pale ales to lagers, stouts, and a delightful French-style saison. Brandy specifically raves about her tasting experience with Good Neighbor's Lager, a collaborative celebration beer marking Denizens' 10-year milestone.

The chatter continues with exciting event shoutouts, including Denizens' anniversary, the Juneteenth festival in Herndon, and an array of brewery anniversaries in Loudoun. Jordan Harvey tantalizes everyone with mention of a beta-tested time travel device!

Don't miss the June beer share event at Silver Branch in Silver Spring, where fans are warmly encouraged to engage and partake in this vibrant beer community.

So, grab a cold beer, kick back, and join us for another spirited episode of The DC Beer Show – it’s time to celebrate beer, community, and the extraordinary tales from our local founders!

Jake, Mike, Brandy, and Jordan celebrate their 100th Episode together in this LIVE recording from Lost Generation with an audience of DC Beer members and industry friends. 

Special thanks to Lost Generation and Andy's Pizza for sponsoring this episode!