What was your 1st brewing job? Did you ever think becoming Brewmaster of a global brand was attainable back then? My brewing career began at the Obregon Brewery under the late German Brewmaster, Peter Gokus. My background is actually in biochemical food engineering, but Peter was truly the one …
Oskar Blues is in all 50 states. They make boss ass moves that fly under the radar often in this ever-changing world we love. First brewery to put craft beer in cans? Check! Distribute 32oz cans to the 2000+ retailers and breweries who bought their crowler machines? Check! Build a …
Mama’s Sour Cherry Pie was flowing in the Crooked Stave taproom. Many of her variants weren’t on yet so I dipped over to The Proper Pour next door to score a pair of bottles of Casey’s Peach Fruit Stand. It’s the first week of October in Denver so you know …
One day we will be able to tell our kids that were there the day Illinois brewers took home 10 medals at the Great American Beer Festival. Leading the charge was Very Small Brewer of the Year, On Tour Brewing. On Tour’s first festival appearance also featured a silver for …
I think we just experienced the first craft beer festival in the history of Chicago’s Union League Club. The space is a 23 floor “city within a city” in the middle of downtown, With it’s classic hotel rooms, event spaces, bars, members only gym and stunning artwork, the buiding is …
Back in 2011 the now defunct Ale Syndicate (known then as New Chicago Brewing) announced that they were moving to The Plant.. they never did. With its circular economy, commitment to material reuse and energy conservation, The Plant is one of the most interesting urban renovations happening in the city. …
At the bar of Half Acre’s new 100,000 sq. ft production space, I glance over and see two of Chicago’s finest producers, Gabriel Magliaro (Half Acre) and Jesse Diaz (Dark Matter Coffee) sharing a moment. Big, badass coffee imperial stouts are commonplace now. Their annual collaboration Big Hugs turns 9 …
