TwoGuys & Beer

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Can you imagine savoring a beer that dates back to the 14th century? Join us as we celebrate Doppelbock Day and uncover the rich history of Munich's Spaten brewery, which has been crafting exceptional brews since 1397. Unfortunately, our friend Jake from Seattle couldn't join us due to an unexpected appendectomy, but we dedicate this episode to him. We promise you'll gain a newfound appreciation for Spaten's legacy and learn some fascinating tidbits about brewery culture along the way.

Tune in for a mouth-watering tasting and review of Spaten's Optima Doppelbock, a robust malt liqueur with a 7.6% ABV. With flavors reminiscent of a light Guinness, this beer's deep malty essence and nutty undertones make it perfect for a cozy autumn evening by the fire. We'll also delve into the historical significance of the malt shovels on the label and discuss the ideal occasions to enjoy this hearty brew.

Our journey doesn't stop there. We'll take you through the storied past of the Spaten-Franziskaner brewery, from its roots in 1867 to its pivotal moments like serving beer at Oktoberfest and its expansion to North America. Plus, you'll hear about a California company brewing beer with prehistoric yeast and get a taste of the unexpected as we explore viral internet sensations and the surprising success of the Florida Panthers in the NHL. Get ready for a dynamic blend of beer appreciation, cultural insights, and a dash of hockey talk!

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What’s the secret behind the rich, malty flavor of Spaten's Optimator? Join us in the Two Guys in Beer podcast studio as we celebrate Doppelbock Day without our friend Jake from Seattle, who’s recovering from an emergency appendectomy. Despite his absence, we raise our glasses to him and dive into the legacy of Munich's Spaten Brewery, a monumental institution since 1397. Listen in as we share listener stories, lift our "12-ounce weights," and explore the beer culture that makes Munich a beer lover's dream.

This episode is a sensory journey through the tasting notes of Spaten's Optimator, a quintessential Doppelbock beer. Get ready for some pronunciation misadventures and our enthusiastic plans for Oktoberfest in Munich later this year. We compare the robust, malty flavors of Optimator to lighter beers, discuss the significance of its green bottle, and unravel the clever symbolism behind Spaten's iconic logo. From the meticulous brewing processes to the deep-rooted traditions of German beer, we leave no stein unturned.

But that's not all! We shift gears to discuss viral internet sensations and our amusing experience at a Florida Panthers hockey game. From missed Uber rides to the quirks of hockey culture in the southern states, our stories provide both laughs and insights. Whether you’re passionate about beer, fascinated by viral trends, or curious about hockey's southern expansion, this episode promises a delightful mix of humor, history, and hearty discussions.

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Have you ever wondered why the term "the lab" is thrown around so much, especially in sports? Join us as we debate its overuse and why it might just be the perfect metaphor for our podcast setting. We'll also dive into our shared passion for beer and introduce you to Half Brothers Brewing from Grand Forks, North Dakota. As we swap road trip stories and compare the monotonous and scenic routes of North Dakota and beyond, you'll discover why our journeys often culminate in the appreciation of a good brew.

Next up, we get adventurous with our taste buds! Remember that dill pickle soup experiment that left our coworkers divided? Well, we're taking it a step further by taste-testing a pickle-flavored beer from Half Brothers Brewery. Hear our candid reactions and find out whether this unique brew is a hit or miss. As we applaud Half Brothers for their creativity, we eagerly await the chance to try more of their unconventional offerings.

Finally, immerse yourself in the vibrant world of craft breweries with us. From the relaxed, family-friendly vibe of these unique spaces to the engaging community events hosted by Half Brothers Brewing, we'll highlight what makes brewery visits so special. Our discussion also spans pizza tips, baseball banter, and the quirky contracts of major sports leagues, including the infamous Bobby Bonilla deal. And don't miss our take on the NFL's Sunday Ticket monopoly and how it impacts fans. This episode is packed with personal stories, insightful discussions, and a genuine love for craft beer. Cheers!

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Ever wondered what happens when a cider house decides to shake up the craft beverage scene? Join us as we explore Schilling Hard Cider's Local Legend from Auburn, Washington, a semi-sweet cider that balances fresh-pressed apples with a not-too-sweet taste. Get ready for a playful discussion that includes everything from Sasquatch-themed can art to personal cider recommendations from the Pacific Northwest. It's more than just a drink—it’s a whole new flavorful adventure perfect for any occasion, even mowing the lawn!

But that's not all—our excitement doesn't end there. We’re thrilled to share some big news about signing a record contract, and we shift our focus to Schilling Cider's innovative hard lemonades like Imperial Pink Lemonade, Blue Raspberry Lemonade, and Guava Lemonade. We also dive into the world of yerba mate with Vita Mate, a low-calorie beverage designed to keep you energized without the coffee crash. Learn about the origins of yerba mate, its health benefits, and hear our personal tea stories and preferences. 

Finally, explore the incredible expansion and innovation at Schilling Cider, co-founded by Colin Schilling and Mark Corney in 2015. Discover how they ramped up their Auburn plant to the fastest canning line in the Pacific Northwest and opened the world’s largest cider taproom with 50 taps. We reminisce about our visits to the Pacific Northwest, celebrate the community-driven spirit of craft breweries, and emphasize the importance of quality ingredients. 

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Ever wondered how a Chicago-based brewery became internationally renowned? Discover the secrets behind Hop Butcher for the World's impressive growth and unique beer offerings straight from owner Jeremiah Zimmer. Join Andy Beckstrom and Sean Field in the Two Guys Beer Podcast Studio as they share exclusive insights from their interview with Jeremiah and take you through a tasting journey of Hop Butcher's exceptional IPA. With notes of ripe tropical fruits, pleasant pine, and fresh citrus, this IPA is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Get ready for an exciting exploration of Hop Butcher's dynamic expansion and engaging collaborations. Inspired by Carl Sandburg's poem "Chicago," the brewery's name and philosophy reflect the passionate spirit of traditional butchers. Learn how they engage with customers, seek feedback through festivals, and form strategic partnerships to share their craft beyond Chicago. Jeremiah provides a behind-the-scenes look at their thoughtful decisions on expanding their reach, including collaborations with restaurants, vendors, and other breweries.

Hop Butcher's journey from a local favorite to an internationally recognized brewery is nothing short of impressive. From their humble beginnings in 2014 to distributing across 30 states and internationally, discover how their strategy of organic expansion and community engagement has paid off. We also touch on the brewery's unique branding, featuring Chicago historical references and eye-catching artwork on labels. Plus, stay tuned for an exciting discussion on the latest developments in the WNBA, highlighting rising stars and rivalries that mirror historic NBA moments. Don't miss out on this compelling episode packed with insightful conversations and thrilling beer tastings!

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What if your favorite beer could also support a worthy cause? Tune in to our 24th episode of the Two Guys Beer podcast to uncover how Mikerphone Brewing not only crafts exceptional beers but also collaborates with the Elk Grove Fire Department for a charity event benefiting Project Fire Buddies. From discovering Microphone at Jack's Bottle Shop in Rochester to exploring their community-focused initiatives, we share our excitement for this Chicagoland gem. Get ready to be inspired by how this brewery blends creativity and compassion, all while brewing some of the most unique beers we've tasted.

Ever pondered what a strawberry and peanut butter jelly sandwich in beer form would taste like? We break down our tasting experience of a soft sour ale collaboration between 1840 Brewing and Mikerphone Brewing, revealing its dessert-like charm. Anticipation brews as we discuss an intriguing Belgian beer, corked and bottled like fine wine, and share our desire to visit Mikerphone in Elk Grove Village to explore more of their innovative offerings. Whether you're a fan of IPAs, ciders, or something entirely different, this episode promises a flavorful journey through craft beer's diverse landscape.

Travel mishaps, historical explorations, and hotel horrors—oh my! Our whirlwind trip to Washington, D.C., brings stories ranging from a prestigious ceremony at the National Fire Academy to the contrasting realities of travel accommodations. Plus, take a historical stroll with us through Gettysburg and Emmitsburg Road, reflecting on the Civil War's enduring impact. As always, we spice things up with fun facts (ever heard of a flamboyance of flamingos?) and vibrant beer discussions. Don't miss out on this engaging episode packed with great stories, community connections, and, of course, phenomenal craft beer recommendations. Cheers!

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Ever wondered which lager is perfect for that post-lawn mowing refreshment or which brewery is on the rise in St. Louis Park? We've got you covered! Join us as we embark on a sudsy exploration of Haggard Barrel Brewing Company, where their tales and ales have us singing praises. From the Widowmaker black ale to the Beer Before Baseball lager, we're ranking beers by style and sharing our personal picks. Plus, we'll let you in on why Schlaps Lager is quickly becoming the go-to for any outdoor occasion.

Let's face it, brewing is an art - but don't just take our word for it. This episode stirs the pot by comparing the creation of beer to the strokes of a painter's brush or a musician's score. We dive into a philosophical brew of opinions on the artistic merits of brewing, while savoring the innovative Glonky, a smoothie-style sour ale that shows off its environmental creds with the sustainable Kernza grain. And of course, we won't leave you hanging on the question of whether golf course design or an athlete's swing might just be another form of artistic expression.

Wrapping up, we're buzzing with excitement about Hazard Brewery's future plans and growth. Their knack for crafting exceptional lagers with gently used equipment is something to keep an eye on. We're plotting a return visit in the summer and might just bring the brewery owners onto the podcast for a chat. So, grab a pint of Hazard Brewery's finest and join us for an episode that hops between laughter, environmental stewardship, and the sheer joy of craft brewing. Cheers to the stories that grow with every pour!

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Grab a glass and settle in as we explore the unconventional path taken by Chicago's own Pipeworks Brewing. In an industry where the taproom reigns supreme, these brewers have flipped the script, opting for an off-premise tasting and shopping extravaganza. We'll navigate the impact of this choice on their brand in the bustling craft beer market, all while keeping the conversation as bubbly as the beers we adore. And to those not yet of legal sip-age, fear not, for there's plenty of frothy knowledge to soak up that requires no ID.

Ever wondered if a unicorn could be your drinking buddy? We'll whisk you away to a place where the line between myth and ale blurs. Our journey with Pipeworks Brewing isn't just about the liquid gold in our glasses; it's a romp through the whimsy of their beer names, the nostalgia-evoking can designs, and a brewery ethos steeped in community and creativity. We'll even detour through the fantastical, from unicorn lore to the unique traditions of Lake Superior State University's unicorn questing. By the end of our chat, you might just believe in the magical connection between storytelling, brewing, and the occasional sparkle.

We wrap up our session with a toast to the quirky and the quaint, from the snowman burning ritual bidding winter adieu to the refreshing burst of Mini Unicorn Pale Ale that chases away our thirst. Pipeworks Brewing demonstrates that the craft beer experience is more than what's poured into a pint glass—it's a tapestry woven with innovation, tradition, and a sprinkle of the extraordinary. So join us on this offbeat expedition through the sudsy realms of craft beer, where every sip tells a story and every story is worth the pour. Cheers to the journey!

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Cracking a cold one while the crack of the bat echoes in the stadium, that's where you'll find Andy Beckstrom and me, Shawn Field, your hosts for a journey through laughs, hops, and home runs. As we sip on Off Color Brewing's Beer for Ball Games, a creamy concoction perfect for nine innings, we invite you to experience the peculiar charm of a brewery that doesn't shy away from the offbeat. Our banter goes beyond the brew, as we tackle everything from the connection between beer, baseball, and being a Minnesota sports fan, to the allure of running over objects with a tank for sheer catharsis.

Imagine sitting with friends, the air filled with anticipation just before a bench-clearing brawl unfolds on the diamond; this episode traverses those baseball moments that teeter between humor and tension. We're sharing a mixture of personal anecdotes and wider sports musings, including an amusing Terry Mulholland encounter and what it truly means to be a teammate. We also don't skirt around the topic of fighting in sports, comparing the baseball field to the hockey rink, and how each handles their unique brand of conflict.

Then there's the tale of Ed Gamble, a comedian whose harmless hot dog became the center of a health-conscious controversy across the pond, leading us to reflect on the quirks of food regulations and the unadulterated joy of ballpark franks. There's something about the snap of a natural casing that resonates with our collective nostalgia for the game and its culinary sidekicks. So whether you're here for the baseball banter, a lesson in obscure brews, or just a good laugh about life's absurdities, this episode has your bases covered.

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Ever cracked open a beer and wondered about its storied past or how it might just benefit your health? Strap in with your favorite pint as Sean Field and I, Andy Beckstrom, serve up a frothy blend of history, culture, and fun facts you never knew you needed. From the Bavarian roots of Abita Brewery's Andygator Doppelbock to the unexpected health perks of sipping a brew post-run, we're here to expand your horizons beyond that trusty bar stool.

Remember the first time music gave you chills or made you feel like you belonged to something bigger? We're turning back the clock to those first album purchases (yes, even that New Kids on the Block cassette) and exploring how these tunes shaped the rockstars we are today. Get ready to laugh and maybe cringe a bit as we reminisce about our musical rites of passage. And, in true "Two Guys and a Beer" fashion, we're weaving in tales of Abita Brewery's growth and how a Venus flytrap crime ring in North Carolina intrigued us as much as a freshly tapped keg.

If you think beer and gaming are unrelated, think again! We're taking a nostalgia-laden trip through the pixelated realms of Nintendo, debating whether Duck Hunt or Mario Bros 3 reigns supreme. Join us for an episode packed with laughs, revelations, and a reminder that whether you're a beer aficionado, a music geek, a gaming enthusiast, or just here for a good story, our podcast is pouring out good vibes and great company. Cheers to that!