Brewbound Podcast

Von Ebert's Dashawn Agbonze on Failing in Safe Spaces and the Importance of Brewing Education

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 20:16:31 +0000

Von Ebert Brewing brewer Dashawn Agbonze sees himself as the "fun police" – a badge he wears proudly, much like the German brewers that he admires.

"I'm always like, 'Why are we doing this?'" Agbonze said on the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast. "Ultimately, like the Germans, I don't believe in magic. I need an explanation. Let's talk it out. Part of that is, let's train people so that everyone can see the same vision and we have the same goal because we know exactly how to get there."

Agbonze, a two-time Michael James Jackson Foundation for Brewing and Distilling (MJF) scholarship awardee, shares his journey climbing the ranks of the brewing industry and why he believes education is critical for up-and-coming brewers.

"The education is important because it enables you to be in a controlled space to fail," he explained. "You're not putting a business on the line. You don't have employees with families that you have to risk in order to learn that 'Hey, a clean tank would make the beer that you want,' or 'Hey, contamination via your canning line can happen,' or how to solve these problems in a safe space."

Failures in a learning environment become key lessons in training the next generation of brewers, Agbonze shares.

Before the interview, the Brewbound team discusses the latest news, including a major departure from Whole Foods' bev-alc team, an update on Pabst's stolen beer, the Beer Institute's latest beer supply data and FIFCO USA's new owner and new/old name.

Brewbound managing editor Jessica Infante also shares highlights from her trip to Asheville for the annual business planning meetings at Highland Brewing and Sierra Nevada.

Hard Sports Drinks, Industry Layoffs and Pabst's Stolen Beer

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 20:41:46 +0000

The summer selling season wraps up this weekend with Labor Day Monday, and one of the hottest segments of the summer has been hard sports drinks.

Brewbound editor Justin Kendall and senior reporter Zoe Licata dive into the fast-growing segment and how their views have shifted on it over the last year. They look at who is leading the segment now and new entrants looking to fast-follow, including Boston Beer Company.

The duo also recap several rounds of layoffs, including Sapporo USA's wind-down of the Stone Brewing-branded locations in Escondido, California; Mark Anthony's integration of the Finnish Long Drink and coming sales team cuts; and Diageo's ongoing $1.2 billion restructuring effort hitting its NYC headquarters.

Plus, Justin and Zoe discuss low-ABV beers (and Justin cracks Sierra Nevada's new Go-Two IPA) and Pabst's viral stolen beer marketing campaign.

Dave Infante on Diageo's Cuts, Garage Beer's Data Center Cooling Plan and BuzzBallz and Pop-Tarts' Boozy Collab

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 18:26:50 +0000

Fingers boozeletter author Dave Infante joins the Brewbound Podcast to deep dive Diageo's ongoing restructuring and workforce slashing under CEO Sir Dave Lewis (aka "Drastic Dave" for his reputation for making big cuts at previous stops).

Infante shares insights from his reporting and conversations with Diageo employees, many of whom wondered why the Guinness and Johnnie Walker maker was so slow to adapt to the modern bev-alc competitive landscape.

"The frustration that I heard from current and former Diageo employees was mostly about why weren't we doing this before we had to start laying everyone off," Infante tells Brewbound editor Justin Kendall and managing editor Jessica Infante (no relation).

"You don't have to get to this point before you start pivoting to RTDs."

The trio also hit recent headlines, including Garage Beer and Liquid Death tapping into the real world animosity around data centers and BuzzBallz's recent Pop-Tarts partnership.

Jessica offered a theory on the BuzzBallz-Pop-Tarts team up: "Kids aren't eating Pop-Tarts. You know who's eating Pop-Tarts? Sad, elder millennials who can't afford anything else and want a tiny treat. The moms who would be out marching on the capitol up in arms against this aren't feeding that to their kids."

"They're the ones who are intrigued by the BuzzBallz Pop-Tarts that they saw on Instagram," Dave adds.

"That's definitely going into their Stanley tumblers," Jess says.

Do We Need Another NA Version of a Legacy Beer Brand?

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 18:55:13 +0000

Does every beer need a non-alcoholic (NA) analog? The Brewbound team discusses on the latest episode of the Brewbound Podcast.

As Molson Coors prepares to launch an NA version of Leinenkugel's Summer Shandy, Brewbound editor Justin Kendall questions whether the product is trend chasing or if consumers are clamoring for it. Managing editor Jessica Infante gets White Claw Zero flashbacks, while senior reporter Zoe Licata offers a different perspective after exploring NA ciders.

The trio also analyze recent headlines, including:

Samuel Adams taproom workers' plans to unionize and Boston Beer's response, so far;
And B3 Beverage's "complicated" partnerships, with a deal for Yards Brewing going forward and others falling through.

The Beer Industry's New Era of Competition

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 19:56:51 +0000

The decade-long consent decree that allowed Anheuser-Busch InBev's (A-B) MegaBrew merger with SABMiller to go forward expired in July, removing guardrails that had been placed on the world's largest beer manufacturer by the Department of Justice to ensure competition in the marketplace.

Chris Jones, managing director of Central Market Strategies, joins this week's Brewbound Podcast to explore what competition looks like in a post-consent decree beer industry.

Jones argues the consent decree did its job, creating a competitive environment that allowed new brands over the last decade such as Athletic Brewing, Mark Anthony Brands' White Claw and Boston Beer's Truly Hard Seltzer to become category leaders in non-alcoholic (NA) beer and hard seltzer, respectively, while also preventing A-B "from using its massive size as the world's largest brewer to disrupt the market."

WIth the consent decree's guardrails down, including the removal of an independent monitor who maintained compliance by handling claims of interference and coercion, there now exists "a lot more risk in the system of this market power and abuses of market power that could result from the size and scale of the largest brewer," Jones said.

Going forward, it will be important to track national market share in an already "highly concentrated market" and middle-tier consolidation in the years ahead, he added.

Listen to the full conversation with Brewbound managing editor Jessica Infante here.

Before the conversation, Brewbound editor Justin Kendall and senior reporter Zoe Licata join Jess to run through the latest news, including Lawson's Finest Liquids' first NA beer, what distributors say is on their cut lists, a distributor territory swap in the Northeast and "warm beer takes" on the latest NFL beer marketing.

CEO Michelle Ivey Dives Into Lake Hour's Strategy

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 19:21:13 +0000

How can a new brand make a splash in the increasingly crowded ready-to-drink waters? A winning combination of differentiated flavors, artistic packaging and a willingness to work the market day in and day out. That's what has been working for Lake Hour, according to CEO Michelle Ivey, this week's featured guest.

RTD canned cocktail brand Lake Hour launched three years ago amid the segment's meteoric rise. Its co-founders – actor Wyatt Russell and film producer Rich Peete – had no prior beverage experience, and tapped Ivey, an industry vet, as CEO in late 2025.

"Once I tried it, I realized it was one of those, 'actually' brands that when you take a sip, you're like 'Wow, actually, this is great. This tastes so good,'" Ivey said. "And so, I was so impressed with what they did and what they built two years in as startup founders that have had no experience in the industry."

Before the interview, the Brewbound team discusses recent headlines, including a proposed reprieve for intoxicating hemp beverages, how many retailers sold out of various bev-alc products during the World Cup and how Anheuser-Busch InBev views itself relative to spirits giants.

RNDC's Unpaid Tab, Craft's Mid-Year Number and Boston Beer's Rally Dog

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 20:05:06 +0000

Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC) is leaving a big unpaid tab. The distributor filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy this week, with liabilities between $1 billion and $10 billion, and more than 100,000 creditors.

In this episode of the Brewbound Podcast, Brewbound editor Justin Kendall and senior reporter Zoe Licata dive into the bankruptcy filing, as well as the fallout, with many suppliers left wondering if they'll ever get paid back.

Justin and Zoe also catch up on the other big headlines, including the Brewers Association's (BA) 2026 mid-year report, with projected craft volume declines of 4%. They discuss why the news isn't all bad – with a majority of respondents reporting growth – and why it's not all good.

The conversation shifts to Boston Beer's second-quarter results and Sun Cruiser's growing importance to the company's bottomline. They also explore Boston's growing fast-follower innovation strategy, including Rally Dog, a potential hard sports drink challenger brand. Plus, they touch on if beer companies might be walking back their opposition to the spirits industry's equalization efforts.

Finally, seasonal creep is here and real as pumpkin beers are already popping up on store shelves.

It's a quick, fun recap of the latest news. Listen here.

The Magic of Airport Beers with Experience Threee's Liz Einhorn

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 20:48:24 +0000

The pre-flight beer ranks high on many people's lists of simple pleasures, but what does it take for that beer to end up in a pint glass?

Experience Threee founder Liz Einhorn joins this week's episode of the Brewbound Podcast to discuss the complexities of beer service in airport concessions. She shares the pros and cons of brewery-branded airport taprooms and what it takes to secure (and keep) a draft line in a busy airport bar.

Before the interview, Justin and Jess break down the latest beer industry headlines, including a lawsuit between Ballast Point's owners over allegedly ill-gotten business loans, new leadership at the National Black Brewers Association and James Watt's second attempt to buy back BrewDog.

Best Day's Tate Huffard on Fitting Into Non-Alc Beer's 'Belonging' Phase

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 19:16:19 +0000

Best Day Brewing founder and CEO Tate Huffard believes the modern non-alcoholic (NA) beer movement is now in its second wave – one characterized by "belonging."

"What we see now is that non-alcoholic beer belongs on menus, it belongs in beer sets," Huffard said on the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast.

Best Day was made for NA beer's second wave in which coolers on boats in the summer are stocked with NA and alcoholic beer and fridges at parties also include both options, Huffard said.

"All of these beer occasions warrant a great non-alcoholic beer and yet part of the magic is unpacking and uncovering these new occasions that deserve a beer," Huffard said. "Case in point for me is a lunch beer."

The first wave – driven by the rise of Athletic Brewing Company – helped normalize NA beer and remove the penalty box elements of old-school offerings, Huffard explained.

"I give those guys an incredible amount of praise for creating an environment where people could participate in the category and it wasn't weird," he said. "And the concept of non-alcoholic craft beer was born in that first wave."

The second wave is about growing the pie, expanding grocery baskets and taking NA beer's share upward from 2% to 10% and beyond, Huffard said.

In the episode, Huffard discusses Best Day's 30% distribution growth this year and retail expansion, finding luck in craft brewery taprooms, navigating the disruption caused by the launch of Anheuser-Busch InBev's Michelob Ultra Zero and much more.

But first, the Brewbound team also catches up on the latest news, including July 4 scans, exec moves at New Belgium and a Jersey banner plane and patio tent update.

Pour One Out For Deschutes' Kirkland Helles; Plus, World Cup, July 4 and Jersey Shore Chatter

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 21:25:00 +0000

Can a letter writing campaign save Deschutes' co-branded Kirkland Signature Helles, the same way Jess saved her childhood zoo?

The Brewbound team and weekend newsletter writer Sean McNulty discuss the end of the cult favorite lager on the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast, including an outpouring of somber reactions to the news.

Justin recaps his conversation with Deschutes CEO Peter Skrbek and why he's not sweating the decision as the company's portfolio is growing. But could a public show of support from Costco members flip the decision? Jess shares that it worked for her hometown zoo.

The team also shares their personal July 4 experiences, including a view from the Jersey Shore, and the mixed results by channel for the World Cup and surge of imported beer.

Zoe also explains why quality is a default expectation for consumers now, and shouldn't be a marketing talking point in 2026.

Shootin' the Breeze Ahead of the Fourth

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 16:58:17 +0000

On the latest Brewbound Podcast episode, the Brewbound team catches up on how Independence Day is stacking up as a heat wave sets in for much of the country.

Hot Topics:

U.K. beer prices vs. the U.S., and other across-the-pond observations from Zoe's trip to London;
Jersey Shore banner plane ads, which have been heavily skewed toward 1 brand, according to Jess' on-the-ground reporting;
July 4 beer promos, such as a meat-and-beer deal spotted in IA by Justin;
And other quick hits, including Allagash's new Maine-centric ad campaign, the impact of the World Cup on beer and why now is the time for hot RTD brands to explore a sale.

Kilts, Bagpipes and Lots of Lagers – How Hendler Family Brewing Welcomed World Cup Fans

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 14:43:37 +0000

Mass Appeal Draught House and Grille opened on the eve of the kick-off of FIFA World Cup 2026 at its neighbor, Gillette Stadium.

Hendler Family Brewing co-founder and CEO Sam Hendler joined the Brewbound Podcast to discuss how the multi-branded taproom handled an influx of guests, what Scottish fans prefer to drink (Jack's Abby House Lager) – and what they're not drinking.

"The majority of the audience who's been down there on game day has been the international fan base, and House Lager has been consistently the No. 1 seller, and it's not particularly close," Hendler said. "We're selling 6 or 7x the House Lager than we are of the top-selling IPA in that taproom right now."

Hendler shared insights into the World Cup-driven boost at the company's Night Shift taprooms and beer gardens and how they prepared their brands (Jack's Abby, Wormtown, Masshole Light and Sloop) to stand out in the trade during this high visibility time.

In the Boston area, hosting the World Cup and thousands of spectators who have come to support their teams has been a boon for the hospitality industry, particularly beer distributors and breweries.

"On the ground, the atmosphere has been fantastic. People have been showing up, people are having a great time, and they're drinking a lot of beer as it goes on," Hendler said. "There's been so much talk in beer about winning occasions that are beyond what the beer occasion has always been, and the industry still obviously needs work to do on that, because the World Cup, unfortunately, won't last for 365 days a year forever. But it's clear that beer is a winner for this occasion, and it's been absolutely fantastic."

Before the interview, Justin and Zoe discuss the results of the Brewers Association's annual Harris Poll of consumers' views on craft beer, recent developments in the ongoing collapse of Republic National Distributing Company and a first impression of Keystone Light Apple.

Athletic's Bill Shufelt is Bullish on the Future of NA Beer – and the Beer Category

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 15:54:52 +0000

Athletic Brewing co-founder and CEO Bill Shufelt is "the most excited" he's felt since founding the dedicated non-alcoholic (NA) beer brand.

On the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast, Shufelt shared what's driving his hyped feeling, with a foundation he and co-founder John Walker laid about a decade ago. That foundation is built on a team of 300 co-workers, bicoastal brewing facilities, a strong distribution base for its core beers, a slate of new products hitting retailers and marketing campaigns beginning to ramp up.

"I'm very bullish on the long-term health and growth of the category and our part in growing that," Shufelt said. "It was very hard to get non-alcoholic beer from zero to 2% of beer, but there are actual retailers in the U.S. [where] non-alcoholic beer is touching up against 20% of their beer sales."

Those retailers lend credence to Shufelt's belief that NA beer can be a much bigger part of the beer category. Shufelt explained that consumers are very early in the NA beer discovery curve, with the vast majority unaware how the product has changed in the last decade.

Even with the stage set for growth, Shufelt acknowledged that Athletic still has work to do for the company and the segment to reach some of his loftier goals.

For Athletic in particular, which holds around 22% of the NA beer segment, distribution remains its biggest opportunity.

"In independents, no matter how much our distributors smile at us and tell us we're a priority, we're in like 10% of their independents," Shufelt said. "And I can go into stores in almost any state in the country and look at a shelf that is controlled by our distributor that has five-plus non-alcoholic beer products on it, and Athletic will have none. There's just such untapped distribution out there still."

For now, Shufelt is focused on driving Athletic and NA beer forward. But could the future include an IPO? An Athletic led by someone else? Shufelt said it's possible, but he doesn't want to be on the outside looking in on an opportunity he was one of the few people to see.

Before the interview, Justin, Jess and Zoe discuss the latest headlines, including the mixed results craft brewers are seeing from the World Cup, the American Cider Association co-locating its 2027 CiderCon conference with the Brewers Association's Craft Brewers Conference, the closure of Nebraska's largest craft brewery and the top new products of so far this year.

F.X. Matt Brewing's Fred Matt on Mid-Strength Beer and Generating Retail Energy; Plus, Changes Coming to GABF

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 11:37:06 +0000

At 138 years old, F.X. Matt Brewing isn't slowing down.

President Fred Matt joined the Brewbound Podcast to discuss the Utica, New York-based craft brewery's plans for 2026 and beyond, which include Saranac Weekend Warrior Mid-Strength, a 3% ABV hazy IPA and Right Coast Spirits Italian Ice, a vodka-based RTD produced in partnership with Barrel One Collective.

Plus, Jess and Zoe discuss news highlights, including changes coming for the Great American Beer Festival and 2025 production data for taprooms and brewpubs.

Revised Craft Production Data, Plus Chats with Victory and Odell

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 19:19:23 +0000

Was craft brewers' 2025 less bad than we thought?

The Brewers Association issued a revision to its annual production report, which places the industry at -4%, up from previously published -5.1%. In this Brewbound Podcast episode, Zoe and Jess break down what the changes mean for the challenged craft beer industry, as well as several middle-tier deals and recent scan data.

This week's featured interviews highlight Victory Brewing co-founder Bill Covaleski and director of brewing operations Joe Slavick and Odell Brewing CEO Eric "Smitty" Smith. Both conversations were recorded during the Craft Brewers Conference in Philadelphia in April.

Off-the-Wall Marketing with Garage Beer's Andy Sauer; How Occasions Drive Julie Rhodes' Kick Fizz

Wed, 27 May 2026 17:59:05 +0000

One of the hottest beer companies in the U.S., along with a budding THC-infused beverage entrepreneur, join the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast in back-to-back interviews.

Garage Beer owner Andy Sauer shares upcoming plans for the fast-growing lager brand, including the introduction of Home Depot-style buckets and stubby bottles.

Garage Beer is riding a growth wave, posting 193% year-over-year gains in 2025, to 220,000 barrels of beer. Garage ranked as the 12th-largest craft brewery last year, but the company has intentionally kept "craft" out of its messaging.

Sauer discusses striking the balance in marketing with celebrity owners Jason and Travis Kelce and some of the more off-the-wall campaigns the brand has deployed through its writer's room approach to marketing.

But first, Julie Rhodes, co-founder of THC-infused beverage brand Kick Fizz, explains how she's preparing for the federal government's November ban of most THC drinks.

Rhodes, who also runs consulting firm Not Your Hobby Marketing Solutions, digs into creating an occasion-focused brand, the misconceptions about infused beverages and the challenges small producers face at retail.

Before the interviews, Justin, Jess and Zoe discuss the Brewers Association's 2025 production data release. They discuss the top 10 brands that posted growth last year and jockeying among them.

NBWA's Craig Purser Talks Middle-Tier Hot-Button Issues; Aeronaut's Deepa Chungi on a Successful Events Biz

Wed, 20 May 2026 19:00:43 +0000

As middle-tier M&A dominos fall this summer, National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) president and CEO Craig Purser joins the latest Brewbound Podcast to discuss the tectonic shifts in the distribution landscape following Republic National Distributing Company's (RNDC) fire sale.

Purser is part of a double shot of interviews this week, including Aeronaut director of programming Deepa Chungi, who shares how the Massachusetts craft brewery created a booming events business.

First, Purser offers insights into what middle-tier consolidation means for small producers and distributors, and how the power structure has been reshaped with mega spirits distributor Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits picking up Anheuser-Busch InBev's distribution rights in major markets.

Purser also explains what he believes the intoxicating hemp beverage industry needs to do to get lawmakers onboard and potentially avert the ban coming in November.

Then, Chungi explores the keys for small breweries looking to add private and public events to their businesses, and why events such as "Pitch a Friend" and Dungeons & Dragons game nights have packed Aeronaut's taproom.

Plus, the Brewbound team discusses the demise of Schlitz, the closure of Minneapolis' Bauhaus Brew Labs and a helluva partnership for Mike's Dirty Lemonade.

How Lawson's Stays on Brand, and Rhinegeist's Plans Amid Hemp Bev Prohibition

Thu, 14 May 2026 01:55:47 +0000

2023 was a sea-change year for several craft breweries who underwent leadership changes. Lawson's Finest Liquids and Rhinegeist Brewery were among the companies who underwent CEO transitions that year.

Lawson's CEO Adeline Druart and Rhinegeist CEO Adam Bankovich discuss entering Year 3 of their respective tenures at the top of those companies in separate featured interviews on the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast.

In the first conversation, Druart dives into the "ongoing conversation" at the Vermont brewery of "what makes a Lawson's Finest beer a Lawson's Finest beer" and defines what makes a Sunshine brand.

"Really for us, it's IPAs – clear IPAs using Citra hops, and with a very bold flavor profile," she said. "The more conversations we have like those – defining who we are, the more I'd say clear we are moving forward what's on brand, what's off brand."

Druart also discusses the impact of Lawson's community giving programs, accelerating business by moving distribution to Baker Distributing in its home state, the launch of Hop Wired hazy and juicy IPA and much more.

Then, Bankovich explores the anniversary of launching the Cincinnati craft brewery's first NA beer line Ghost, with new offerings to follow. He also explains why launching Fuzzy Bones, a sparkling THC drink, has been a challenging and educational "crash course," following Ohio's ban on intoxicating hemp beverages.

Fuzzy Bones launched in six states, with three additional states expected to follow. Rhinegeist is "trying to stay nimble with it," as a federal ban looms in November.

"I wish that our government officials could learn enough from the past to act quickly because this industry developed so quickly, seemingly out of nowhere," he said. "We just really need a chance to not fall into the trap of Prohibition and instead write proper regulation now and in real time as consumers want these products instead of prohibiting them for years and years and years."

Bankovich also dishes on Rhinegeist's daily hospitality efforts to make guest experiences' special, the growth of the company's core Truth and Cincy Light brand families and several expedited new additions: Half Truth session IPA, limited-time summer offering Cincy Light Watermelon and Sea Salt and Cincy Vodka Soda, the company's first spirit-based offering.

Before the interviews, the Brewbound team reviews that latest news, including:

A recent Bump Williams Consulting report on long-tail craft brands finding success;
Leadership changes at the American Cider Association;
And Boston Beer's 15% ABV Lytt beyond beer creation in glow-in-the-dark, lightbulb-shaped 6.8 oz. containers.

RNDC's Dismantling; Plus Eco Beverages and Russian River

Wed, 06 May 2026 20:51:28 +0000

Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC) continues to unwind, so BevNET spirits editor Ferron Salniker joined the Brewbound Podcast to break down the latest.

RNDC, once the country's second-largest wine and spirits distributor, has been selling-off markets piecemeal to competitors from coast to coast. Announced deals have included 11 markets to the Reyes Beverage Group, brand rights and some assets to Columbia Distributing, operations in 17 control states to Martignetti.

(Note: this conversation took place before Breakthru announced it would acquire RNDC operations in Kentucky and Indiana or that it was revealed Quality Beverage would buy RNDC assets in Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota.)

RNDC's current state can be traced to the butterfly effect of a host of suppliers leaving its California operations over the last several years, resulting in the company exiting the state.

"It's no surprise that if your biggest suppliers leave your biggest state and beyond, then the rest of your business is going to be affected," Salniker said. "What's happening now is no surprise, but it feels like it's happening all of a sudden."

In addition to her analysis, the episode features conversations with Eco Beverages co-founder Anna Nadasdy and Russian River Brewing co-owner Natalie Cilurzo. Nadasdy discusses her organization's push to help craft beverage manufacturers navigate Extended Producer Responsibility laws.

Cilurzao recapped her brewery's recent Pliny the Younger launch and Russian River's latest push to share its sustainability work.

Justin and Jess also break down recent beer news, including Lord Hobo and Lone Pine's pivot to contact production and Q1 earnings from Boston Beer and Molson Coors.

From Beer to Better-For-You: How Octopi Brewing Is Adapting to a Shifting Beverage Industry

Mon, 04 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

In this Brewbound Podcast Interview, Justin Kendall sits down with Mitch Wedemeier, Director of Planning at Octopi Brewing, live from the Brew Expo floor at the Craft Brewers Conference. Now just over two years into its acquisition by Asahi (January 2024), Octopi has refined its strategic vision under the leadership of Paul Verdu. The company is pursuing two parallel paths: continuing as a best-in-class mid-range co-packer while also growing the Asahi Super Dry brand in the U.S. market.

Mitch shares that Octopi's co-packing business is currently a 50/50 split between alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, with strong demand for non-alcoholic beer (using their award-winning membrane filtration process) and rapidly growing categories like healthy sodas, prebiotics, protein sodas, and mocktails. On the format side, he's seeing real momentum in 19.2 oz single-serve cans, variety packs, and the emerging 7.5 oz "mini" can format, which Octopi is adding to its line by mid-summer. Rather than chasing volume with dozens of clients, the team is focused on partnering with 10–20 brands in the ~15,000-barrel range that have meaningful growth potential. CPG founders interested in co-packing with Octopi can visit AsahiBeerUSA.com and connect directly with Mitch through the contract manufacturing section.

From Beer to Better-For-You: How Octopi Brewing Is Adapting to a Shifting Beverage Industry

Mon, 04 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Wrapping Up CBC 2026; Plus, Chats with Carbon Copy, Brewers of PA and Love City

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 18:51:10 +0000

After a week of good (dare we say sunny?) vibes in Philadelphia, the Brewbound team regrouped to put a bow on the 2026 Craft Brewers Conference (CBC).

Jess, Zoe and Justin discussed the overall feel of this year's event compared to the previous two CBCs in Indianapolis and Las Vegas, as well as the Brewers Association attempting to change the narrative around craft beer. They discuss president and CEO Bart Watson's nudge to tell some of the more positive stories around craft beer, and his own attempts during the State of the Industry speech.

Plus, the trio explored RNDC's fire sale this week, as the distributors struck deals with Martignetti for 11 control state markets and Columbia Distributing for certain wine and spirits brand rights in Washington and Oregon, as well as an agreement in Alaska.

Then, we bring you a trio of Pennsylvania-centric interviews, starting with a check in with Carbon Copy co-founder Brendon Boudwin on the Philadelphia brewery's less pretentious approach compared to some legacy craft brewers.

After that, we shift gears with snippets of interviews recorded during Brewbound's happy hour at Love City Brewing.

In the first chat, Brewers of PA executive director Hannah Ison explained the guild's work to modernize the state's malt beverage tax credit program, which would allow craft breweries that have made facility upgrades or equipment purchases to sell those credits to other Pennsylvania producers or gain extensions.

The show wraps up with Love City Brewing co-founder Kevin Walter's take on modern craft drinkers and how the brewery is pulling those drinkers into its taprooms with niche events.

CBC Week + a Blockbuster Brewery Deal

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 22:16:49 +0000

The Brewers Association's Craft Brewers Conference (CBC) rolled into Philadelphia this week – and so did the Brewbound Podcast On Location Studio. In this episode of the Brewbound Podcast, the team shares their early reads on a week in which the vibes seem high compared to previous years.

Zoe recaps the opening keynote speech by Unreasonable Hospitality author and former restaurateur Will Guidara, including his hyper-experiential approach to customer service and what a "dream weaver" is and whether you should be concerned that your server is eavesdropping on you.

But first, Justin provides details on Firestone Walker and Duvel USA striking an agreement to acquire the Stone Brewing brand and four California taprooms from Sapporo USA – just under four years after the Japanese brewing giant acquired the San Diego craft brewery.

Justin, Jess and Zoe dig into what the deal means for craft market share in California, how the combined company plans to approach distribution and which taprooms are on the move, as well as what this means for Sapporo in the U.S. and what happens with the Escondido production brewery.

The trio also share takeaways from Brewbound's party at Love City Brewing.

Ikasu Brewing Leans into 'Weird,' 'Good Beer' and Japanese Culinary Ingredients

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 21:47:29 +0000

Ikasu Brewing founder Masahiro "Masa" Kitano believes his Los Angeles-based, contract-brewed brand has found its niche, leaning into "weird and good beer" that taps into Japanese culinary ingredients.

Kitano's history as a home brewer helped him craft out-of-the-ordinary beers, such as a matcha-infused gose.

"It's a sour beer with the aroma of matcha, but it doesn't look green," he said. "You smell it and it's super unique. No one's thought about combining sour beer with matcha."

Kitano's beer, as well as his story of leaving a career as a medical researcher to chase his brewing dream, coupled with his infectious personality, propelled him to victory during Brewbound's Pitch Slam competition at the 2025 Brewbound Live business conference last December.

On this week's Brewbound Podcast, Kitano shares an update on the business following the win and why he believes his pitch resonated.

"I tried to make the pitch as simple as possible, a little bit stupid and a little be funny – magically it worked out," he said. "I'm so glad that happened."

In the months since, the draft-only brand added several bar and restaurant accounts following the win and recently signed with L.A. Distributing Co., Kitano said.

Ikasu continues to operate out of Los Angeles-based Native Son, where the brand has six taps dedicated to its beer. The relationship has helped Ikasu test new offerings and connect with a built-in audience.

In this episode, Kitano goes deeper into his innovation process, as well as his aspirations for Ikasu, including plans to can Larigato, Ikasu's Japanese rice lager, later this year for distribution.

Before the conversation, the Brewbound team discusses craft beer's 2025 production report released earlier this week by the Brewers Association. They dive into why Sierra Nevada leapfrogging Boston Beer as the No. 2 independent craft brewery by volume highlights the successes of one brewery and the shift in focus away from beer of the other.

The trio also explore Mark Anthony Brands' deal for the Finnish Long Drink, and which RTD dominos are left to fall/cash in.

Q1 Craft Scans, Platform Proliferation, BrewDog's Identity Crisis – and What's a Daycap?

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 19:51:51 +0000

How did craft close out Q1 in scans? In this episode, the Brewbound team convenes to discuss the early read on trends in off-premise retailers with the first three months of 2026 in the books.

The conversation shifts to the latest platform builders, as Oklahoma City's Coop Ale Works and Dallas' Four Corners Brewing have created the Frontier Beverage Collective. Meanwhile, Abita Brewing Company is rechristening itself as the Abita Beverage Group, targeting 170,000 barrels this year, and potential mergers and acquisitions.

Then the focus turns to new BrewDog owner Tilray Brands' Q3 earnings report and future plans with the Scottish craft beer brand in the fold. Justin, Jess and Zoe discuss BrewDog's identity without its "punk" ethos, which now includes a residency in the Hamptons.

The show wraps with a conversation about the "Daycap," following a Business Insider story on bev-alc brands targeting daytime occasions via some creative marketing to younger LDA consumers. Is this really a thing with Gen Z?

Mega M&A Madness with Fingers' Dave Infante

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 20:39:19 +0000

In the wake of major shakeups in the middle-tier that will see the largest distributors getting even bigger and major manufacturers adding brands to their portfolios, Fingers newsletter author Dave Infante joins the Brewbound Podcast to recap a wild couple of weeks in the bev-alc industry.

The Brewbound team and Infante cover recent distributor consolidations by the Reyes Beverage Group and Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits and whether this signals a new era of mega distributors. They also discuss the effect these deals could have on small producers, especially brewers who are now competing with a variety of products outside of traditional beer in their wholesalers' books.

The crew also dissect recent brand acquisitions among suppliers, including Firestone Walker's Trumer Pils pick up in the U.S. from Gambrinus and the potential fallout; Constellation Brands' deal for HOPWTR; Molson Coors' addition of Monaco; Pernod Ricard and Brown Forman's flirtation; and Phusion Project's purported interest in selling Four Loko.

The show wraps with a discussion of the upcoming Craft Brewers Conference and why everyone will be vibe-checking attendees later this month.

A CBC Primer with Brewers Association CEO Bart Watson

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 20:37:26 +0000

Brewers Association president and CEO Bart Watson believes the Craft Brewers Conference works best when it's "the big-tent event that everybody is coming to and connecting with."

On the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast, Watson explained that he views the largest annual gathering of craft brewers (April 20-22 in Philadelphia) in four buckets:

Commerce via the BrewExpo trade show, where brewers connect with suppliers and learn about trends;
Education, with a host of new voices on the speaker roster this year;
Networking, with a more intentional approach and dedicated sessions;
And fun.

"CBC should be that week where you do all four of those things," he said. "But you come back recharged, energized with new ideas, new energy."

The BA's membership base is primarily made up of brewpubs and taprooms, making hospitality and customer traffic "the thing that makes or breaks their businesses," he explained.

"Craft is gonna win or lose with people wanting to come into breweries and then having a great experience or not having a great experience," Watson continued.

As such, hospitality will be a key theme of this year's event, and the BA has tapped restaurateur Will Guidara, author of Unreasonable Hospitality, to give the event's opening keynote speech.

"He's like a hospitality business 'Ted Lasso,'" Watson said. "He really brings a spirit and a positivity that is going to be welcomed in craft right now as people try to lean in, do better, grow in what's a challenging time but one where many people are still finding opportunities to thrive."

Watson offered more insights in the interview, including the state of the industry.

Before the interview, Jess and Justin recap a wild week of M&A, including Molson Coors finally nabbing its spirts-based RTD in Monaco/Atomic Brands and a flurry of big distributor consolidations with Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits, Anheuser-Busch InBev, Reyes Beverage Group and Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC).

From Blueberries to Boom Season: Baxter and Orono's Maine Strategy

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 21:12:39 +0000

Maine's craft brewing industry has always punched above its weight despite being among the smallest in population. The state ranked second in breweries (14.3 per 100,000 21+ adults) and economic impact per capita, and third in gallons (9.8) per 21+ adult in 2024, according to Brewers Association data.

That outsized impact along with the state's robust tourism business gives Maine craft brewers a unique perspective on the industry's ebbs and flows.

The latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast features two of those voices – Baxter Brewing president Jenn Lever and Orono Brewing co-owner Abe Furth – in separate conversations recorded during the New England Brew Summit. Both are also Maine Brewers Guild leaders and board members.

Up first, Lever explained what it's like to navigate a business when seven months account for the lion's share of volume.

"We're so proud to represent Maine year-round, but we also recognize the challenges that come when your population quadruples for less than half of the year," she said. "You've gotta be ready to activate and react as quickly as possible to that summer season.

"The people that come to Maine the first time, it's never their last time."

Lever also touched on how Baxter's mix shifts during the busy season, the loss of Canadian tourism amid strained international relations and why blueberry-flavored offerings have become big business for the company.

Then, Furth discussed why guild participation remains important. He also shared why operating in a college town allows him to peer into the future and plan accordingly, and explained the importance of working through innovation plans with the brewery's distributors to find products that fill real whitespace in their portfolios.

Before the interview, Justin and Jess recap Tilray's purchase of BrewDog's U.S. assets and the future of the platform. They also look at some not great shipment numbers to start the year and some not-so-bad scans.

A Changing of the Guard at Oxbow

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 21:28:28 +0000

Two months into her role as president of Portland, Maine-based Oxbow Brewing Company, Bri Warner is finding her groove and taking on more of the hands-on, day-to-day operations. The leadership transition allows founder Tim Adams to spend more time evangelizing for Oxbow and Rising Tide, which the company acquired in early 2025.

Warner joined the brewery from Atlantic Sea Farms, the largest kelp farming operation in the country. The duo joined the Brewbound Podcast for a conversation recorded at Oxbow's Portland taproom.

Before the interview, the Brewbound team details the latest beer industry news, including Tilray's acquisition of BrewDog's Australian operations. Four Loko's proposed sale and George Clooney and buds' new NA brand, Crazy Mountain.

42 North on Delivering a Total Guest Experience; Plus Tilray Acquires BrewDog's UK Operations

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 02:06:48 +0000

New York's 42 North Brewing has entered its second decade with a new mindset about what it means to be a craft brewer, founder John Cimperman said on the latest episode of the Brewbound Podcast.

42 North Brewing celebrated its 10th anniversary last September. Business at its taprooms in East Aurora and downtown Buffalo has returned to pre-COVID-19 levels with some changes. Food and events make up a larger portion of revenue, and 42 North has embraced both by enlisting a restaurant partner to manage service and booking standing live music performances.

Before the interview, Zoe and Jess break down Tilray Brands' acquisition of BrewDog's Scotland brewery, global brand and IP and 11 pubs in the U.K. and Ireland, plus the closing of BeatBox's sale to Anheuser-Busch InBev and the new leadership of the Brewers Association's board of directors.

The Oregon Beverage Collective Finds Power in Numbers

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 23:10:10 +0000

The pack mentality isn't going away anytime soon in craft brewing.

The Oregon Beverage Collective (OBC) – the tie up of Crux Fermentation Project, Cascade Lakes Brewing, Silver Moon Brewing, Goodlife Brewing and Tumalo Cider – launched a couple of weeks ago as one of the latest additions to this crowd.

OBC president Andy Rhine joined the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast to share how those five brands are looking to build strength in numbers.

Rhine explained that OBC's formation wasn't out of necessity even in a Pacific Northwest market facing challenges through distributor consolidation. Instead, the collective's foundation was built via long-time relationships among brewery owners in Bend. And it was those relationships that led to Rhine acquiring Crux in a separate deal from founders Larry Sidor and Paul Evers.

Even with a portfolio of five brands and efforts to consolidate production, sales and marketing, Rhine said maintaining each brand's "unique identity" will be key to the future of the collective. The conversation also covered Rhine's view of OBC's future and whether more members will be added to its ranks.

Before the interview, Justin and Zoe break down the latest headlines, including the fallout from Dry January, the Brewers Association's 2025 financial results, Tilray's licensing deal with Carlsberg, the Left Hand Collective's newest member and the Supreme Court's ruling on reciprocal tariffs.

Reinventing Home Brewing: How Pinter Is Bringing Draft Beer Home

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 05:00:00 +0000

In this Brewbound Podcast Interview, Ray Latif sits down with Paul Benner, U.S. CEO of Pinter, to explore how the company is reinventing the at-home beer experience at a time when traditional home brewing and craft beer growth have slowed. Benner explains how Pinter's all-in-one brewing and tapping system eliminates the biggest barriers to entry — cost, time, space, and inconsistent quality — enabling consumers to make fresh, draft-quality beer at home in just 10–14 days. He also highlights how the brand is tapping into powerful consumer trends around at-home entertaining, DIY hobbies, and direct-to-consumer purchasing.

The conversation also dives into Pinter's strategy of positioning itself as an alternative to packaged beer, supported by partnerships with breweries like Guinness, Lagunitas Brewing Company, and Great Lakes Brewing Company. With a subscription-based model, an expanding portfolio of styles, and a growing roster of brand collaborations, Pinter is building a new platform for enjoying beer at home. To learn more or get started, visit Pinter's website and explore how the system works.

A Supplier's Guide to Middle-Tier Consolidation

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 21:27:45 +0000

As the distribution tier continues to shrink, what must brewers and bev-alc brands do to protect their routes to market? ArentFox Schiff partner Nichole Shustack and senior associate Isabelle Cunningham joined the Brewbound Podcast to discuss how suppliers can navigate the turbulence that comes with wholesaler consolidation.

Shustack and Cunningham also share updates on the uncertain future of the intoxicating hemp industry, which is slated for prohibition in November 2026.

Before the interview, Justin and Zoe discuss a bevy of beer news, including the formation of the Oregon Beverage Alliance, year-end shipments data from the Beer Institute, BrewDog's looming liquidation, Constellation Brands' incoming CEO and global layoffs at Heineken.

Editor's Note: While the guests featured in this conversation are attorneys, the discussion does not constitute legal advice. Please consult your own legal counsel as needed.

Long Drink Face & Brand Soul: CEO Evan Burns on Winning the US Market

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 22:51:54 +0000

How did a drink that was concocted for the 1952 Helsinki Olympic Games find relevance in the U.S. today?

Finnish Long Drink co-founder and CEO Evan Burns explained on the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast how the gin-based ready-to-drink (RTD) brand has connected with modern consumers through sampling, storytelling and authentic celebrity partnerships.

Burns shared that first-time Long Drink consumers often get "Long Drink Face" – a range of emotions that start with confusion for what the product is, to surprise after they try it, to ultimately delight. That starts a domino effect with the newfound fan turning their friends and spouses on to the product, Burns said. It also opens them up to the story of the cocktail made from gin, grapefruit juice and water more than half a decade ago for Finland's Olympic moment.

During a conversation with Brewbound senior reporter Zoe Licata, Burns emphasized how the Long Drink has stayed true to its citrus roots and isn't a product to be spun off into 30 flavors.

"It's about building brands with soul," he said.

Burns also discussed how a celebrity partnership with actor Miles Teller led to other celebrities organically signing on with the brand, how the Long Drink leverages social media and tips for any CPG brands seeking growth.

A Decade of Craft and Community: Inside the 10th Annual New England Craft Brew Summit

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 15:16:51 +0000

In this Brewbound Podcast interview, host Jess Infante sits down with Sarah Bryan, Executive Director of the Maine Brewers Guild, to preview the 10th Annual New England Craft Brew Summit, taking place Friday, March 6 in Portland, Maine. The one-day conference, New England's largest B2B gathering for the craft brewing industry, brings together brewers, brewery owners, suppliers, and industry partners for a jam-packed day of education, collaboration, and connection. Bryan describes the summit as a distinctly New England event: independent, no-nonsense, and intentionally designed to deliver maximum value in a short amount of time for busy operators.

Bryan highlights what's new for the milestone year, including an expanded and modernized trade floor, longer educational sessions, and a keynote address from Natalie Cilurzo of Russian River Brewing Company. Anchored by the theme "The Brewer's Compass: Finding Focus, Crafting with Purpose," the program reflects an increasingly mature craft beer landscape, with advanced sessions covering topics like AI in the brewing workplace, modern PR and earned media, supplier innovation, employee wellness, and navigating today's complex market conditions. Beyond the conference floor, the summit also features a full slate of networking events, brewery collaborations, and celebrations throughout Portland, reinforcing the event's reputation as both a business-critical conference and a cornerstone gathering for the New England beer community. For more information and registration details, visit the New England Craft Brew Summit website.

Monday Night Brewing Founders on Knowing the Right Time to Make a Leadership Change

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 21:09:31 +0000

Monday Night Brewing co-founder and CEO Jeff Heck had an Office Space moment a couple of years ago after returning from a three-month sabbatical in the South of France.

"When I came back, I realized the company was generally doing great," he said, adding he had a moment straight from the movie's famous meeting-of-the-Bobs scene and asked himself: "What is it that you say you do here?"

"If you can leave your job for three months and things are generally fine, it's worth asking what would you do here," Heck explained. "I've just never wanted to be the old guy who comes in with a newspaper and puts his feet up on the desk because he's 80 years old and just wants to be at the office. I like working. And I like having something meaningful to do."

That moment spawned the beginning of a succession plan for the CEO role, which transferred to Monday Night co-founder Joel Iverson last month.

On the latest Brewbound Podcast, Heck and Iverson shared that their eventual succession plan was a reflection of Monday Night leaders' overarching cultural philosophy of working to make their jobs irrelevant and identifying the coworkers next in line to take the reins.

"That's true for everyone – from our general managers at each of our six locations to our production team – 'Hey, if someone gets hit by a bus tomorrow, who is it that's ready to step into your role?'" Heck said. "And the answer is not always clear, but if there's not a clear answer, your job is to start working on that.

"The reality is that we've never had a concrete, explicit plan for what transition looked like," he continued. "But the core was how do we make sure we're culturally and missionly aligned across our leadership team so that in the event that Joel, Jonathan and I all went down in a plane crash that there would still be torchbearers for what we want to be as a company and a brewery if we're long gone."

Getting there took Monday Night 12 years, Heck and Iverson shared. In the episode, they discussed how they eventually arrived at a transition plan, the importance of the culture they're built at the brewery and their vision for the future.

Before the interview, Justin, Jess and Zoe discuss the latest bev-alc news, including the re-emergence of hard sodas, the Great American Beer Festival's move outdoors and surprisingly positive scans to open the year.

Minneapolis' Insight Brewing on Supporting a Community in Crisis

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 19:08:29 +0000

Minneapolis has dominated national headlines for weeks as area residents protest the Department of Homeland Security's heightened crackdown on Minnesota's large immigrant population. Tensions have intensified as agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have killed two American citizens in shootings that have been recorded by observers.

Local businesses such as Insight Brewing have taken a stand against ICE's occupation of the city. Insight marketing manager Joey Steinbach joins the Brewbound Podcast to discuss how the brewery has stepped up as a community hub by collecting food and other donations to distribute to mutual aid groups, supporting neighbors who participated in last week's general strike and emphasizing its role as a friendly third space.

Before the interview, Zoe and Jess discuss recent news, including takeaways from the Beer, Wine & Spirits Summit and a sneak peek at Budweiser's upcoming Super Bowl commercial.

How pFriem Family Brewers and New Trail Win the Home Games

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 22:10:15 +0000

How can a craft brewer expect to win away games if they're not winning at home? That's the sports analogy pFriem Family Brewers co-founder and CEO Rudy Kellner used to describe the Hood River, Oregon-based brewery's strategy when it comes to expanding its distribution footprint.

This week's Brewbound Podcast highlights a stage conversation from Brewbound Live featuring Kellner and New Trail Brewing (Williamsport, PA) COO and partner Mike LaRosa. Both breweries have secured impressive volume growth within footprints that don't stretch far beyond their neighboring states.

Before the featured conversation, Justin – freshly returned from parental leave – and Jess discuss recent headlines, including the return of Dos Equis' Most Interesting Man in the World, and whether or not nostalgia can bring in new beer drinkers.

What the New Dietary Guidelines Mean for Bev-Alc

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 21:26:57 +0000

After a lengthy delay that included much fretting among industry insiders, the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) were unveiled earlier this month. Any fears that anti-alcohol activists had infiltrated the quinquennial process were eased, as the new guidelines preach moderation over specific daily drink allowances.

Beer Marketer's Insights senior editor Christopher Shepard, who has followed the process closely, joined the Brewbound Podcast to discuss the DGA, the fraught path to publication and what this could mean for brewers.

Before the featured interview, Zoe and Jess discuss recent beer industry headlines, including a proposed deal between the Reyes Beverage Group and Republic National Distributing Company, 2 Towns Ciderhouse's acquisition of Seattle Cider and the somewhat heartening data Circana published in the past month.

The Year in Booze News

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 22:30:00 +0000

A new year means it's Brewbound's annual roundtable conversation with our peers in beer industry journalism.

This year, the Brewbound team is joined by Kate Bernot, lead analyst for Feel Goods Insights, and David Steinman, VP and executive editor of Beer Marketer's Insights. The discussion covers the biggest bev-alc news stories of 2025, including middle-tier consolidation, overall category health and consumer sentiment.

Anderson Valley Brewing's Jason McConnell on Taking the Reins of a Beloved Brand

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 18:30:16 +0000

Earlier this year, wine industry veteran Jason McConnell acquired 38-year-old Anderson Valley Brewing Company [AVBC] (Boonville, CA). Now he is focused on maintaining AVBC's cherished traditions, such as its annual fest and its celebrated disc golf course, while adding his own flair.

McConnell chatted with Brewbound editor Justin Kendall during the California Craft Beer Summit in November about AVBC's beer park and several new Japanese-inspired offerings, as well as his observations as a newcomer to craft beer.

"The beer world is a lot more laid back and a lot more fun to promote than the wine world," McConnell said. "It's different, and it's awesome."

Before the interview, senior reporter Zoe Licata and managing editor Jessica Infante discuss Brewbound's most-read news stories of 2025, as well as recent headlines, including Stateside's new Super Lyte and data about consumers' plans for New Year's Eve and Dry January.

A Brewbound Live Recap, Plus Karl Strauss CEO Chris Cramer

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 19:49:22 +0000

Brewbound Live 2025 is in the books! Podcast co-hosts Zoe Licata and Jessica Infante recap this year's conference, as well as news stories that broke during the week.

Then, Karl Strauss Brewing (San Diego, CA) co-founder and CEO Chris Cramer joins Brewbound editor Justin Kendall for this week's featured interview. The conversation was recorded at the California Craft Beer Summit last month in Irvine, CA, hosted by the California Craft Brewers Association.

A SoCal Vibe Check with Pizza Port's Jill Olesh

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 21:45:27 +0000

Pizza Port wants to be a staple of your Southern California grocery run.

"I call it the Southern California grocery basket," Pizza Port director of sales Jill Olesh said on the latest episode of the Brewbound Podcast. "It's your chicken, your tortillas, your black beans, your spinach and your 6-pack of Swami's [IPA]."

Pizza Port is riding a wave of momentum as the 38th-largest craft brewery by volume in 2024, growing 9% to 53,450 barrels of beer. Olesh credited the connection the brewery has forged across generations, as well as the value of the brewery's flagship 16 oz. can 6-pack format, which the company launched in 2013.

"Part of the magic recipe, the lightning in the bottle of Pizza Port, is we've been so many things to so many people throughout their lives and a lot of those people who were coming as kids are now bringing their kids here," she said.

In the conversation, Olesh discussed the pillars of Pizza Port's sales pitch – "consistency, quality, affordability, availability" – as well as the mindset that carried her through the recent SoCal distributor consolidation as Hand Family Companies bought and merged Stone Distributing, Classic Beverage and Scout Distributing into Sunset Distributing earlier this year and why she's optimistic for 2026.

Plus, hear the real-time reactions from the Brewbound team on Anheuser-Busch InBev's $490 million deal for 85% of party punch maker BeatBox, as well as quick recaps on a proposed class-action lawsuit against Boston Beer and how the night before Thanksgiving busted this year.

Justin, Jess and Zoe also share their Spotify Wrapped results, with some surprising – and not-so-surprising – results.

The Lost Abbey's Tomme Arthur on Turning Surviving Into Thriving and California's Real Estate Squeeze

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 22:02:36 +0000

The Lost Abbey's Tomme Arthur's current tagline is "We're surviving, not thriving."

"We'd love to turn that into thriving," he added on the latest episode of the Brewbound Podcast.

"We're trying to get to next year. That's the standard answer," Arthur explained. "Next year will be our 20th year in business. So it's a pretty big milestone in terms of continuity or continuation. So [we're] definitely looking forward. What we're trying to do is really establish the right size and scale for the brewery."

For the Lost Abbey, that's led to a bit of a nomadic lifestyle over the last couple of years, moving from San Marcos to the Mother Earth Brewing facility in Vista and now to the former Eppig Brewing 30-barrel brewery space about a mile across town.

Arthur described those moves as a search for efficiency that hasn't yet fully been realized, reinforcing the business with contract partners with room to add more.

In the interview, Arthur shared his view of The Lost Abbey's business moves in an effort to "grow down," while also hitting on a major challenge facing California brewers coming up on the expiration of their leases as landlords seek market rate increases in rent. Arthur shared his own experience of deciding whether a 30% rent increase was worth accepting at the brewery's best-performing tasting room.

Before the interview, Jess, Zoe and Justin break down Rogue Ales & Spirits' bankruptcy filing and Torch & Crown's SoHo taproom closure. They also share one thing they're looking forward to at Brewbound Live next week.

Smog City's Laurie Porter on the Life in the Middle

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 15:41:15 +0000

Smog City Brewing co-founder Laurie Porter is a prepper. Even during craft's days of double-digit growth in the middle 2010s, Porter, who calls herself "an incurable optimist," was eyeing a future when that growth wouldn't be there.

So Porter and her husband, Jonathan Porter, built Torrence, California-based Smog City with diversified revenue streams – distribution, exports to international markets, four taprooms with over-the-bar sales and an intentional cap on production around 10,000 barrels – that allow the company to shore up its business if things go sideways.

"At our level, between the 5,000 and 12,000, 13,000 barrel, a lot of our revenue is built off the taproom, direct-to-consumer, which has a little bit higher profit margin, it helps us float that wholesale," Porter says in the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast, recorded on location at the California Craft Beer Summit. "So if wholesale is struggling or we're seeing dips and changes in seasons and customer changes, we have a little bit more buffer."

Porter admits that Smog City has looked at what life would be like as a 15,000-barrel brewery but has been "apprehensive to break that" ceiling due to the loss of the ability to pivot, flex and manage costs.

"When you hit 15,000 barrels, you are playing so deep in the chain world because it's all about volume," she explained. "Chain can be very fickle. It can be really difficult to maintain. A beer buyer changes and boom, you're off the shelf. And that's now, whatever, 450 barrels of beer for that one style of beer that you had committed to that grocery, and it's gone. And you can't just predict it."

In the interview, Porter discusses the pressures on LA locations, consumers heading back into taprooms, the impending closure of its Steelcraft Long Beach facility after a decade due to being unable to extend the lease and the launch of a new restaurant concept in December to replace it.

Before the interview, Jess, Zoe and Justin cover the latest news, including the Siebel Institute of Technology's planned exit from Chicago and move to Montreal; Athletic Brewing's big 2025 and new products coming in 2026; and a Gen Z take on the rumored Anheuser-Busch InBev acquisition of BeatBox.

Lagunitas CEO Bernardo Spielmann on Green Shoots and Party Legends

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 20:04:34 +0000

Nearly a year on the job, new-ish Lagunitas CEO Bernardo Spielmann is seeing opportunities for the legacy California craft beer brand.

Those opportunities include expanding Lagunitas Hazy IPA from a draft-only release to package, building on the successful launch of 9% ABV Hazicus Maximus hazy IPA, which now boasts 20,000 points of distribution, and revamping the packaging for non-alcoholic hop water Hoppy Refresher.

On the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast, Spielmann shares that it's also about listening to consumers, who demanded the return of seasonal Unrefined Shugga', the 10% ABV strong ale that returned this year as a national play in bottles and club packs.

Spielmann tells Brewbound managing editor Jess Infante that the goal is to see what resonates and respond quickly.

"More and more as the craft segment matures, we're going to have to be sharper per channel, per market, per SKU how you want to build your proposition," he said. "There will be a rationalization and that's the expected approach. We need to facilitate that for retailers but also our distributors. It's also part of our strategy to be very sharp on how we launch or roll out innovations and the tradeoffs."

Spielmann also discusses the beer category's need to bring back socializing and capture those occasions. He explains how Lagunitas is doing its part with its "Party Legend" brand activation, which celebrates consumers who are the life of the party.

But first, Brewbound editor Justin Kendall and managing editor Jess Infante discuss the sudden closure of Rogue Ales & Spirits and why the shuttering of a top 50 craft brewery is jarring for the public and industry. They also dig into the rumored sale talks of party punch maker BeatBox to Anheuser-Busch InBev.

Jess and Justin also share their experiences, including a visit to Tree House's country club/golf course/taproom and the scuttlebutt from the California Craft Brewers Association's Summit and the Iowa Craft Brewers Guild's I-Best meeting.

Mark Anthony President David Barnett on White Claw's Consistency

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 21:15:45 +0000

Flavored malt beverages (FMBs) and hard seltzers have had a bright red 2025, but those declines haven't fazed Mark Anthony Brands, which continues to find growth in the segments where others have faltered.

In this episode of the Brewbound Podcast, Mark Anthony Brands president David Barnett details how the bev-alc company is "doing better than most" in today's challenged marketplace. He spoke about the company's highlights with Brewbound editor Justin Kendall, in a conversation recorded at the National Beer Wholesalers Association's (NBWA's) Annual Convention in Las Vegas.

"We, in 2025, are the No. 2 dollar share gainer of all of beer," Barnett said. "If you look at the top 30 beer brands in America, which represent 81% of the total beer industry, there's only nine of them that are actually growing dollars, and we have three of the nine: White Claw, [Mike's] Harder and Cayman Jack."

Barnett said the company doesn't necessarily make business decisions based on overall segments trends or what's happening in scans, but instead focuses on how to strengthen its own portfolio and lineup of brands.

That includes White Claw Hard Seltzer, which now has 67% share of the hard seltzer segment, according to Barnett. Mark Anthony has been able to maintain a dominant share of hard seltzer, and even bring consumers back to White Claw who may have drifted away, due to "the quality of the product in the can," he said.

"And staying really consistent," he added. "We've done some innovation over the years, some have worked, some haven't, but we've got ourselves now in a really … simple focused portfolio strategy on White Claw."

Ahead of the conversation, Brewbound senior reporter Zoe Licata chats with BevNET managing editor Marty Caballero about the latest hemp news, and how an advancing spending bill could put a halt to the intoxicating hemp beverage industry.

High Rise Founder Matt Skinner's National Ambitions for Intoxicating Hemp Beverage Brand

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 19:32:18 +0000

High Rise Beverage co-founder Matt Skinner has built a coastal-themed brand in the Southeast but his ambitions extend across the nation.

The Charleston, South Carolina-headquartered intoxicating hemp beverage brand is now available in 22 states, and Skinner sees an opportunity to go even bigger.

"We're in the space of being a nationwide brand at this point," he says on the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast, recorded in October at the National Beer Wholesalers Association's Annual Convention in Las Vegas.

"Having those partnerships and getting in with the right distributors now is important. They're finding who they feel like their horses are in the category, and I think we are aligning across the country with that. But the Southeast is very important to us."

Skinner shares his strategy of building the brand in bars and restaurants and why his pitch to those retailers was bigger than his brand. He also explains how High Rise came to be partners with Sony Music in Nashville, which flavors are resonating with consumers and why Target's adoption of intoxicating hemp products "puts all eyes on the category."

Before the interview, Justin and Zoe discuss the latest news, such as New Belgium's packed new product slate for 2026, including new Voodoo Ranger IPAs and a canned cocktail offshoot, as well as Molson Coors' tough Q3 earnings report.

Building Community & Knowledge: CCBA's Kelsey McQuaid-Craig on the California Craft Beer Summit

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this Brewbound Podcast interview, host Ray Latif speaks with Kelsey McQuaid-Craig, Executive Director of the California Craft Brewers Association (CCBA), about what brewers can expect at this year's California Craft Beer Summit. McQuaid-Craig outlines the event's robust educational programming, featuring three breakout tracks—technical brewing, business of beer, and marketing—as well as new offerings like an off-flavor course for NA and low-alcohol beer (presented by Lallemand) and sessions on hop creep research, SEO, and employment law.

She also highlights two interactive features designed to strengthen connection and collaboration within California's brewing community: a member town hall where brewers can directly shape CCBA's future, and a consultation corner offering one-on-one time with legal, compliance, and benefits experts. The summit promises hands-on learning, practical takeaways, and a deeper sense of community across every level of the industry. For more information, visit CaliforniaCraftBeer.com.

Lester Jones on Beer's 'Moneyball' Play; Carbliss Founders on Their Under-the-Radar Heater

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 20:56:20 +0000

Bars, restaurants and social gathering spaces are beer's "moneyball" opportunity, National Beer Wholesalers Association VP of analytics and chief economist Lester Jones shares during the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast.

Jones is the first of two interviews this week. Adam and Amanda Kroener, the founders of spirits-based cocktail brand Carbliss, also join this week's podcast to share their slow approach to brand building and goal of becoming a national brand.

First, Jones explains why the on-premise channel remains the key to unlocking wins for brewers.

"We can go looking for home runs all day long, but at some point, you've got to have the base hitters," Jones said. "You gotta have the guys when they step up to the plate, you're gonna move the game forward."

While placements in off-premise chains such as Walmart, Kroger, HEB, 7-Eleven and others are analogous to home runs, getting a tap handle is a solid base hit on the way to scoring, and brewers shouldn't lose sight of those singles.

Jones also discusses why he believes craft beer's funk is potentially ending, why the ethanol pie was cut too many ways, how beer is competing for dayparts and why beer needs to bring fun and socializing back.

Then, the Kroeners discuss their methodical approach to brand building and why it has worked for the family-owned and run Midwestern-based canned cocktail brand. They also dish on Carbliss' entry into warm weather markets such as Florida and being one of the most successful brands that people have never heard of.

"The fun part is, when we come out to places like Vegas, if you're not in the industry, you've never heard of us," Adam says. "But at the same time, if you're looking at the Circana or Nielsen data, we're a top three, four, five brand in dollars. So it is a fun, cool thing to be this biggest thing that some people have never heard of."

Before the interviews, Justin, Jess and Zoe recap the latest industry news, including Brooklyn Brewery outsourcing sales to U.S. Beverage, BeatBox's forthcoming Chillitas line, Surfside's lawsuit against Anheuser-Busch InBev over Skimmers hard tea and George Clooney joining the non-alcoholic beer game.

Threes Brewing's Josh Penney on the Lager Renaissance and Craft's Resilience

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 22:00:05 +0000

One thing Josh Penney noticed after moving to Brooklyn from Los Angeles late last fall – aside from markedly less sunny weather – was a broader diversity in beer styles across brewery taprooms.

"It seemed to be a wider range of things that were really appealing to everybody," he said. "Because out on the West Coast, you might have a robust porter, but then you have, like, six different IPAs."

Penney is the head brewer at Brooklyn-based Threes Brewing, a role he took on last year after leaving Los Angeles' Highland Park Brewing. He joins this week's Brewbound Podcast to share insights gleaned from his bicoastal brewing career.

Before the interview, the Brewbound team breaks down Molson Coors' latest corporate restructuring and dives into the scuttlebutt surrounding that ornery New York Times op-ed about one writer's personal issues with craft beer.

Wrapping Up 2025 GABF & NBWA Annual Convention; Plus, Rebecca Maisel Interview

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 23:42:11 +0000

The Brewbound team recaps the 2025 Great American Beer Festival (GABF) and the start of the National Beer Wholesalers Association's (NBWA) Annual Convention and trade show, on the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast, recorded in Las Vegas.

Jess and Zoe share their experiences at GABF, including which legacy craft brewery brought the Party Bomb; festivalgoers' reception for full-strength spirits; the return of timed special pours; mixing Pop Rocks and BeatBox; and the flamboyant embrace of costumes.

The conversation shifts to NBWA convention's first day, including the key theme of wholesaler independence from supplier interference shared by outgoing NBWA president and CEO Craig Purser and board chair Rebecca Maisel. They also discuss the underlying theme of beer as a social lubricant, including untapped events and occasions that could provide a boost to a soft beer category.

Then, in this week's featured interview, Maisel joins Justin to discuss her call for freedom from "undue supplier influence" and why distributors are questioning their supplier relationships. Maisel also dishes about her last ride on the NBWA board after 11 years, why drinkers are distracted and the growth of intoxicating hemp beverages.

Innovation in Beer Distribution: NBWA's Dave Christman on Tech, Data & The Future

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 22:00:00 +0000

In this Brewbound Podcast interview, Ray Latif speaks with David Christman, VP of State Affairs at the National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA), about how distributors are embracing innovation to stay competitive and efficient in a rapidly evolving market. With more than two decades at NBWA, Christman explains how the association supports its members on legislative issues while also leading technology and e-commerce initiatives through the Beer Industry Electronic Commerce Coalition (BIECC). He shares insights from NBWA's member surveys, highlighting rising investments in technology, data analytics, automation, and even AI to improve everything from sales to warehouse operations.

Christman also previews the NBWA's BIECC Innovation Showcase, where 17 companies will present new tools and solutions for distributors—from robotics to predictive ordering systems—underscoring the momentum behind modernization across the beer industry. He emphasizes that no wholesaler wants to be left behind, and innovation is increasingly seen as essential to addressing industry challenges and unlocking growth. For more information, visit NBWA's website.

Tonya Cornett on Her Journey from the World's Largest Brewer to One of the Smallest

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 19:37:10 +0000

Tonya Cornett thought she would end her career at 10 Barrel Brewing. She had joined the Bend, Oregon-based craft brewery in 2012, piled up competition medals for her beers and created a following at the brewery. She thrived as the brewery's R&D brewmaster before and after its 2014 sale to Anheuser-Busch InBev (A-B).

But then Tilray Brands acquired 10 Barrel and seven other brands in 2023. A year later, Tilray laid off Cornett and members of her team in a move that shocked many within the industry.

On this week's Brewbound Podcast, Cornett discusses her journey over the last decade-plus and her next chapter with Upp Liquids, a new venture in the rebranded Immersion Brewing space.

Cornett shares her experiences at A-B, how 10 Barrel and her role changed under Tilray's ownership and her goals with Upp moving forward.

As the Great American Beer Festival (GABF) kicks off in Denver, Cornett also explains how medals have served as a stamp of approval throughout her career and why they remain relevant. Cornett's beers have received numerous competition medals throughout the years, including 28 medals at the Brewers Association's (BA) GABF and World Beer Cup. That doesn't include 10 Barrel's 2024 clean sweep of the German-style Sour Ale category during the 2024 GABF competition.

Before the interview, the Brewbound team runs through the latest headlines, including a big leadership shakeup at Molson Coors and Constellation Brands' struggles as its largest consumer base remains under pressure.

How Surfside Will Ride The Wave This Fall

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 20:50:47 +0000

How does an ready-to-drink (RTD) brand that was built on the beach translate to other seasons? Surfside, Stateside Vodka's hard iced tea and lemonade canned cocktail brand, is betting big on sports this fall.

Stateside co-founders CEO Clem Pappas and president Matt Quigley joined the Brewbound Podcast to discuss the brand's meteoric rise, its partnerships across college football and professional hockey and baseball and the newly rechristened Stateside Live!, an entertainment hub at the South Philadelphia Sports Complex where the city's professional sports teams play.

Year-to-date through mid-September, Surfside's depletions (sales to retailers) reached nearly 8 million cases, about a 150% increase over last year.

Prior to the interview, Zoe and Jess break down recent news stories, including the abrupt shutdown of brewpub chain Iron Hill and storied cider maker Martinelli's pivot to bev-alc.

AleSmith Turns 30 with Party Tricks, Espresso Martinis and Big Contract Volumes

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 16:09:23 +0000

AleSmith is celebrating its 30th anniversary with momentum behind new products – in and out of beer – and a growing contract brewing business.

In this episode of the Brewbound Podcast, AleSmith president Brandon Richards shares how the San Diego craft brewery has evolved to meet drinkers' needs with new products while fortifying its business by brewing for others.

Richards explains how the Party Tricks IPA line and addition of Sun Path fruited lager line have driven growth for the company. Party Tricks has helped "turn the business around" over the last two years, he says.

In 2025, AleSmith expects to double its contract volume year-over-year with plans for more in 2026. The company is in the process of completing facility upgrades to enable spirits-based RTD production that will expand its consumer base as well as its own product mix.

AleSmith is expanding its flagship Speedway Stout brand for its first spirit-based offering with Speedway Espresso Martini, and the company is adding a second spirit-based ready-to-drink (RTD) line with Hoptails, which Richards believes is a first-to-market product as a hard hop water cocktail.

Richards also gives insights into what AleSmith is looking for in a contract partner, what he believes the brewery offers its clients and how much volume the company has earmarked for co-packing in 2026.

Before the interview, the Brewbound team breaks down the biggest industry headlines, including Charlie Sheen's non-alc beer, Molson Coors' new CEO, investors' lawsuit against Island Brands and Boston Beer's winning pick for The Summer I Turned Pretty.

The Summer Scans Turned Unpretty

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 16:09:00 +0000

On the latest Brewbound Podcast, the Brewbound team closes the book on a lackluster selling season. Brewbound senior reporter Zoe Licata breaks down the final round of off-premise data, with a letdown from the historically sales boosting summer beer occasions.

Zoe along with Brewbound editor Justin Kendall and managing editor Jessica Infante also recap the latest 3 Up, 3 Down quarterly report from 3 Tier Beverages, noting a few bright spots through the halfway point of the year, including alternative packaging styles such as smaller can formats.

Plus, the team also hits the latest hot topics, including a major packaging change for Canada's Moosehead and the ensuing consumer backlash; a Denver brewery's closing announcement unlike any other; Iron Hill's decision to shutter three brewpubs; recent taproom consumer trends; and Boston Beer choosing a side in the Team Conrad versus Team Jeremiah debate in an effort to tap into Gen Z culture.

And a bonus: More tomato canning talk than you'd expect.

BrewDog USA's Eric Franco on Gaining Greater Autonomy and Getting Focused

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 00:20:39 +0000

Less has been more with BrewDog's U.S. business over the last year and a half.

On the latest episode of the Brewbound Podcast, BrewDog USA chief sales and marketing officer Eric Teodoro Franco explains how the business has "done fewer things better," leading with a focus on its core brands, which helped the brand increase volume 26% last year, to 89,084 barrels of beer, according to data from the Brewers Association (BA).

"We were very, very famous and very willing to be famous for throwing a lot against the wall and seeing what would stick for many, many years," Franco shared. "We can do that in the U.K. where you have a 50-plus share and you can develop a lot of things and trial and try new things.

"In this market, we did that and it didn't work. We've really taken our range plan, we've taken our focuses down to really doing fewer and better things."

That's led to improved wholesaler partnerships and led to a redeployment of BrewDog's teams to better support its core markets, Franco said.

Additionally, BrewDog USA has been given the opportunity to run its operations with some autonomy from its homebase in Scotland as its U.S. leadership team has earned the trust of the global team.

"We're running things the way we need to run them," Franco said. "Same on the food side and on the retail side of our business.

"For many years, we were very much driven by what the U.K. or international bars looked like, and we would apply that narrative, if you will, or business plan to the U.S. bars. That's gone away as well."

Franco also discusses how the exits of founders James Watt and Martin Dickie have affected the U.S. business, how the company is approaching innovation and how the company has rethought both its distribution footprint and its taproom strategy.

Before the interview, Brewbound's Justin Kendall, Jessica Infante and Zoe Lica break down the impending closure of 21st Amendment Brewery, the removal of a study from the dietary guidelines process and the challenges of making an alcoholic version of better-for-you soda. They also dig into TikTok trends and the latest grousing about Generation Z's bar habits.

Columbia Distributing Leaders On Building a Next Gen Pipeline of Beer Leaders

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 20:43:38 +0000

Columbia Distributing leaders believe they've tapped into a pipeline for the next generation of beer industry workers.

On the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast, Columbia president and CEO Chris Steffanci, VP of sales, Portland Chris Watzig and former intern Rebecca Logan share the ins and outs of the Pacific Northwest distributor's Beer Careers Program.

Watzig and Logan offer decades-apart experience of the 10-week paid internship program, which introduces participating students to all elements of Columbia's business and operations. Watzig entered the program in 2015 and has worked his way up the ladder over the last decade. Logan recently graduated from Oregon State University and was in the program's 2025 cohort.

The discussion covers how candidates are selected, why the company believes it's important to invest in career development programs and what employers can learn from the emerging Gen Z workforce.

Before the conversation, Justin, Jess and Zoe share their Labor Day weekend adventures, including an unexpected encounter with a sandwich-hungry seagull. The trio also cover the latest news, including Sierra Nevada's 2026 plans and Constellation Brands' negatively revised guidance.

Lessons on Navigating California's Turbulent Craft Distribution Market with Kevin McGee

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 22:15:54 +0000

Kevin McGee used his law degree more than he expected when his family took over legacy California craft brewery Anderson Valley Brewing Company (AVBC), including in legal battles over distribution rights.

Now that the family has sold the brewery, a move announced in March, McGee is putting his degree to use full time.

On the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast, McGee recounts recent franchise law cases and victories in the Golden State and shares his expectations for more challenges to craft brewers' ability to switch distributors in the future.

McGee, who acted as AVBC's president and CEO, also shares when he and his family knew it was the right time to sell the brewery. He explains what brewery owners thinking about selling need to consider, how they should prepare and what the current buyer market looks like.

Before the conversation, Brewbound editor Justin Kendall and senior reporter Zoe Licata discuss Anheuser-Busch InBev's sale of its New York City wholly owned distributor to Southern Glazer's Wine and Spirits and why they believe more moves are on the way.

Plus, Justin and Zoe play Another Round or Tabbing Out on Spindrift pulling the plug on its spiked seltzer brand and the crossover bev-alc market.

Rupee Beer Poised for Indian Cuisine's Breakout Moment

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 21:57:16 +0000

Rupee Beer founders Van and Sumit Sharma believe they're ready to meet Indian cuisine's moment.

On the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast, the brothers share their journey of launching the Indian American beer brand during the COVID-19 pandemic as an add-on purchase at their family's restaurant. Today, Rupee has expanded distribution to 18 states – most recently California – and the Sharmas are readying for an "explosion" of Indian restaurants entering the U.S market.

"We're doing something that really directly ties it into the only story that we know, which is restaurants," Van Sharma said. "That's what we grew up in, more specifically, Indian restaurants."

Rupee's beer has found its way onto menus in Thai, Middle Eastern, Persian, Latin American and Caribbean restaurants.

"Anywhere global flavor, spice, those things hang out, that's where we're operating these days," Van Sharma said. "Legacy brands out there definitely paved the way, but we're doing something a little bit different, which also involves a little bit more of the local, craft American space as well."

Although the Shamras built Rupee's business primarily through the on-premise channel, they're now getting the attention of national retailers and they're leaning into their chain business.

Rupee is bringing new innovation to the Indian beer segment, which hasn't seen an influx of new brands, Van Sharma said.

Later in the episode, The Sharmas discuss their strategy for engaging consumers and gaining their attention in retail stores, as well as their approach to building their distribution network and where they want to go next.

Plus, Justin, Jess and Zoe catch up on the latest headlines, including why it's not time to panic despite the Gallup survey's recent results on Americans drinking habits. They give a legal update on Uncle Nearest and the recipe agreement dispute between Schilling Cider and Incline. They also recap recent bev-alc experiences, from a growing dislike for black cherry flavors, to a sweaty trip to the Iowa State Fair.

A Look at Uncle Nearest's Fight to Retain Control of Operations

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 00:21:34 +0000

Representatives of Uncle Nearest were in court last week fighting to retain control of the whiskey brand's operations as its lender seeks the appointment of a receiver as the company has fallen into default on $108 million in loans.

BevNET spirits editor Ferron Salniker joins the Brewbound Podcast to share the latest on the case, including arguments made in court last week in favor of CEO Fawn Weaver remaining in charge, a gag order on comments to the media and on social channels and the timeline for a judge's ruling.

Plus, the Brewbound team discusses aluminum can producer Ball Corporation cutting back on beer in its mix, and Boston Beer's plans to shut down its Truly Hard Seltzer taproom in Los Angeles and sell the Angel City craft beer brand, as well as close its downtown LA taproom.

Justin, Jess, Zoe and Ferron also play Another Round or Tabbing Out on whether the attention the Spaghett – a bottle of Miller High Life with aperol and lemon juice added – is warranted.

Bump Williams Consulting on the Importance of Defending Display Space, 1st Half 2025 Trends

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 19:59:22 +0000

While defending shelf space remains important, suppliers need to make sure they're also retaining lucrative display, floor, promotional and feature space, Bump Williams Consulting (BWC) president Dave Williams and VP of business development and portfolio strategy Brian "BK" Krueger shared in the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast.

"That's what really multiplies anything that you have on the shelf," Krueger said.

Beer brands' display losses aren't just coming from competitors within the category – they're coming from other mega alcohol categories and even non-alcoholic (NA) beverages.

"If you look at what's on the floor on display now, it's less alcohol across the board," Krueger said. "You're seeing more of the sodas, more of the flavor, more of the Olipops, more of the Poppis that are getting that space that used to be 50-, 60-case stacks of beer or seltzer or craft or domestic or import.

"Now, it's gone, it's out of the mix," he continued. "And the frequency has also eroded away as well."

Williams stressed that suppliers need to maintain alignment with their wholesaler and retailer partners to protect that space, which will be key to winning in the future. That alignment comes from being present in the market to maintain those relationships.

In their conversation with Brewbound senior reporter Zoe Licata, Williams and Krueger also discuss first-half 2025 trends in detail with a few reality checks along the way.

"It hasn't gotten notably worse, but it hasn't also gotten markedly better," Williams said of early year trends. "The reality [is] that beer and malt in particular based products, that consumer isn't coming back around in large droves.

"I don't expect volume to come back in any meaningful way," he continued. "There are certainly some individual winners … I think a lot of behaviors from consumers right now are drawing people outside of the beer/malt world. They're slowing down their frequency of consumption or volume that they're consuming when they do go out and make a purchase at the package store.

Krueger and Williams also share how craft brewers are leveraging other areas of bev-alc for growth, what's contributing to flavored malt beverages' (FMB) struggles this year and whether consumers are making pricing-based decisions.

Plus, the Brewbound team reconvenes to discuss Jim Koch's return as CEO of Boston Beer and Michael Spillane's forthcoming exit after 16 months.

Justin, Jess and Zoe explain why the CEO change felt out of left field, what it means for Koch to return to power after 24 years and how the conversation around internal candidates is being framed.

Berkeley Alley Beer's New Owners on Being 'Crazy and Strategic'

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 20:31:28 +0000

After years working at various breweries and hosting their own craft beer podcast, Chelsea Rhoads and Liz Hess finally decided to take the plunge and buy a brewery.

The pair, who co-host the Body By Beer podcast, acquired Denver's Berkeley Alley Beer Company earlier this summer and have put their own spin on the beloved local spot. They joined Brewbound managing editor Jess Infante for a conversation about why now was the time to become brewery owners and how they plan for Berkeley Alley to be a community gathering hub.

The brewery, which opened as De Steeg before being sold and rechristened Berkeley Alley in 2021, has a four-barrel brewhouse, which Hess runs.

"We get a chance to really play and learn and really get our feet wet, so I'm looking forward to that," she said. "I'm not saying it's not scary times, as far as expense goes, because it is, right? But we think that we can push people to come in and expand that by offering more than just beer."

Ahead of the interview, Brewbound senior reporter Zoe Licata chats about the latest headlines, including Boston Beer's tale of two teas and the Brewers Association's midyear survey results. Plus, she details a recent taproom visit that blew her away.

How Almanac Embraced Its Tiniest Taproom Guests and Their Parents

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 21:27:23 +0000

Almanac Beer got lots of people (including the hosts of this podcast!) talking earlier this summer when it announced it was ditching the word "taproom" and rechristening its Alameda, California-based location as Alameda Adventureland.

There was a lot more than alliteration and snappy branding behind the move. Eschewing the "taproom" part of its name made way for Almanac to embrace all the other things it had become: a gathering space for all members of the community, whether or not they drank beer.

In the fourth and final installment in the Brewbound Podcast's Learning Lounge: Taproom Tactics series, Almanac EVP of sales Kevin Scoles details the brewery's transformation of its own-premise location from a taproom to a full-blown, family-friendly entertainment space.

In addition to Scoles' conversation with Brewbound managing editor Jess Infante, this episode highlights news from Calicraft Brewing and New England Brewing Company, as well as Brewbound reporter Zoe Licata's trip to Chicago, and remembers New Albion Brewing co-founder Jack McAuliffe.

The Future is Hoppy: HPA's Record-Breaking Harvest

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 16:19:09 +0000

Ray Latif spoke with Chris Swersey of Hop Products Australia (HPA) and Mitch Steele of New Realm Brewing about the 2025 Australian hop crop. Swersey reported a bountiful harvest for HPA, with total production up 10% and yields increasing by 30% despite reduced acreage. This success stems from favorable weather and significant investments in productivity and technology. Their new HPA HOP Central pellet plant, which processed popular varieties like Galaxy, Ella, and Eclipse, recently achieved FSSC food safety certification.

Mitch Steele praised HPA's Galaxy hops, highlighting its consistent tropical fruit intensity. After extensive evaluation, Steele found the 2025 Galaxy crop to have a complex aroma and taste, featuring classic passion fruit, lime, and a developing peach mango character. New Realm Brewing is showcasing this hop in a "less-coast pilsner," a crisp, light beer with an intense hop aromatic profile.

How Worth Brewing's Airbnb Earns Its Keep

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 20:59:20 +0000

Worth Brewing co-owner Peter Ausenhus has some advice for fellow craft brewers looking to become innkeepers (or just short-term rental hosts): digital keypad locks and a reliable cleaner.

"It's absolutely hands-off for me," he said of Worth's two-bedroom apartment, which is available for rent on Airbnb.

In Episode 3 of the Brewbound Podcast's Learning Lounge: Taproom Tactics series, Ausenhus discusses the ins and outs of adding on-site accommodations to the Northwood, Iowa-based brewery.

Since listing it for rent last summer, the apartment pulls in roughly $1,000 in monthly revenue. Guests have included people visiting family in the area or passing through during work trips.

In addition to this week's featured interview, Justin, Jess and Zoe recap the latest headlines, including Barrel One Collective's new CEO, Sloop Brewing's strategic partnership with Hendler Family Brewing, the legal drama surrounding Hulk Hogan's Real American Beer, and an interview with the national director of Ales for ALS.

Listen here or on your preferred podcasting platform.

And catch up on the prior episodes in Brewbound's Learning Lounge: Taproom Tactics series:

How Hard Slushies Became 10% of Red Bus Brewing's Summer Beverage Sales

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 19:09:51 +0000

Red Bus Brewing owner Erik Schmid is candid about what changed his mind about adding hard slushies to the Folsom, California-based craft brewery's summer menu: "bottom line."

In Episode 2 of the Brewbound Podcast's Learning Lounge: Taproom Tactics series, Schmid shares that since Red Bus purchased a slushie machine, the fruity drinks have become 10% of Red Bus' beverage sales and 5% of its overall business. He described their popularity from May through September as a "pleasant surprise," attracting consumers who wouldn't otherwise visit the brewery and offering others an alternative to beer.

Schmid walks through pricing, margin and profitability, production and the flavors that work best, plus how long the slushie machine took to pay for itself.

Plus, Justin, Jess and Zoe recap the latest headlines, including RNDC's planned layoffs in California ahead of its September exit and recent brewery closures and acquisitions.

The trio also play Another Round or Tabbing Out on the trend of hard sports hydration drinks.

Catch up on Episode 1 of the Learning Lounge with Death of the Fox co-founder Chuck Garrity sharing how coffee has become the dominant part of the brewery's business.

Learning Lounge: How Coffee Fortified Death of the Fox's AM/PM Business

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 20:12:37 +0000

When Death of the Fox Brewing Company opened eight years ago, co-founder Chuck Garrity wanted to make sure its Clarksboro, New Jersey-based taproom stayed busy day and night.

So to "maximize" Death of the Fox's taproom investment and utility, the company launched by also offering coffee service, Garrity shared during the first edition of the Brewbound Podcast's Learning Lounge: Taproom Tactics series.

Offering coffee was part of a total beverage mindset that covered an overlap between beer drinkers and coffee connoisseurs, while adding a revenue stream in one of the strictest operating environments for craft brewery taprooms.

"My goal was to always have an on-site coffee roastery," Garrity explained. "So to be able to produce and roast the coffee in the same way that we produce fresh beer for the brewery. In the same respect, we're doing that with the coffee. To me it just made sense in terms of a business model."

Building an on-site roastery during the COVID-19 pandemic was "a game changer" for the business due to taproom shutdowns. It's now become the dominant portion of the brewery's business.

"When we first opened, beer was about 75%, 80% of our sales," he said. "Now, flash forward eight years later, coffee, in terms of the total company, is about 70% of our sales. Beer is about 20% to 25%."

Garrity added that the brewery's beer sales are still strong, and he's confident that "beer's not going anywhere." But his philosophy is to "follow where the river takes you, don't fight against the current," and Death of the Fox's customers were telling him that while they liked the combination of beer and coffee, they really loved the coffee.

Listen for more from Garrity on Death of the Fox's mix, growing the coffee side of the business amid strict restrictions on beer and advice for adding an attractive coffee menu.

Before this week's featured interview, Jess, Zoe and Justin break down what Barrel One Collective's acquisition of Greater Good Imperial Brewing Company brings to the platform. And the trio play Another Round or Tabbing Out on 1990s nostalgia seeping into CPG, with more waterbed and Jelly shoes talk than you'd expect.

Deep Diving California's Distribution Shakeup and the RNDC Fallout

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 18:51:05 +0000

With Republic National Distributing (RNDC) winding down distribution operations in California ahead of September 1 exit and consolidation continuing among craft wholesalers, this week's Brewbound Podcast explores the fallout of both in the Golden State.

Ferron Salniker, BevNET spirits editor, and Dave Infante, founder of the Fingers boozeletter, join Brewbound's Justin Kendall and Jessica Infante to look back on how one of the top distributors in the country's California business crumbled, the effect on smaller bev-alc producers in RNDC's book and the trickle-down effect on craft brewers.

They also explore multistate distributor Hand Family Companies' entry into the state through the acquisitions of three craft-focused wholesalers – Stone Distributing, Classic Beverage and Scout Distribution in Los Angeles – and the formation of Sunset Distributing.

Plus, Brewbound senior reporter Zoe Licata and Justin chat about her recent feature on the hard refresher trend and Gen Z's aversion to carbonated beverages.

From Malt to Partner Brands – Growing with Supply Chain Allies with Destihl, Briess and U.S. Beverage

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 21:48:13 +0000

How can you get the most out of your supply chain relationships? Communication is key, and not just when the headwinds hit.

Matt Potts, founder of Normal, Illinois-based Destihl, and Ron Schroder, Briess director of marketing, share how they're navigating supply challenges and how craft brewers can mitigate issues by maintaining lines of communication.

Potts also explains why Destihl has supplemented its own growth with partner brands, including the Wrexham Lager, Hanson Brothers' Mmmhops IPA, an Evel Knievel-branded beer and collegiate beers, including with the University of Illinois Fighting Illini.

Plus, U.S. Beverage VP of brand development Kris Sjolander explains the importer and platform's sales and marketing partnership program. He also dives into what opportunities U.S. Beverage's contract brewing process offers to potential partners in the U.S. and beyond. U.S Beverage's partners include Uinta, Woodchuck Cider, Moosehead, Captain Lawerence and several others.

Sjolander shares why he believes U.S. Beverage excels at distributor management, how the company is expanding its national accounts presence to meet its partners' needs and what types of brands benefit the most from partnering with the firm.

Before the conversations, Brewbound editor Justin Kendall and managing editor Jess Infante break down Tilray Brands' latest leadership shuffle and taproom closure, as well as quick thoughts on White Claw's dominance of hard seltzer and cutting its vodka-based canned cocktail line.

Jess and Justin play Another Round or Tabbing Out on the elders' latest Generation Z gripe: forming a single-file line at the bar. They also talk about the Voodoo Ranger-Malört collaboration, Roulette IPA, where consumers risk getting a Malört-inspired IPA in a 6-pack.

BevBoost's Secret to Fresher Beer

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 20:11:27 +0000

How can brewers preserve freshness and extend their beer's shelf life without breaking the bank?

Upslope Brewing founder Matt Cutter believes he's found the answer with BevBoost, a Colorado company that has developed a patented dual-chambered widget that the company says is "food-safe, recyclable insert that holds fresh flavor compounds, functional ingredients, vitamins or even mood-enhancing additives such as THC and CBD, and unleashes them right when a carbonated drink is cracked open."

In the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast, Cutter explains why his attempts to maintain an IPA's flavor led to the founding of BevBoost and gives Brewbound editor Justin Kendall and managing editor Jess Infante a third-grade science lesson. He also shares his expectations for adding shelf life to beverages, how others interested in adding the widgets to their beverages can integrate them into their systems and why he believes BevBoost is prepared to scale and meet demand. Upslope is prepared to be the guinea pig with the release of Hop-Boosted IPA, which it celebrated last week at a party that featured side-by-side taste comparisons.

Before the interview, Justin, Jess and Brewbound senior reporter Zoe Licata discuss the latest M&A activity in Colorado, where Wilding Brands has added decade-old Denver brewery Station 26 to its roster and Ska Brewing has been sold to two families in the beer distribution business.

Plus, in this week's edition of Another Round or Tabbing Out, Zoe explains why anxiety may not be what's driving Gen Z to close out their tabs after every order.

Inside Rhinegeist's Merch Strategy – Emotional Hooks, Limited Drops and Loyal Fans

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 21:00:58 +0000

Merchandise remains an important piece of Rhinegeist Brewery's business, and the Cincinnati brewery is leveling up under the guidance of merchandise director Jenny Morrissey.

Morrissey and Rhinegeist VP of marketing Tracey Ireland share the evolution of the company's merch strategy from "marketing tool," to an individual business unit.

After hitting its peak in the late 2010s, Rhinegeist's merch business started to decline. Morrissey, who joined the company a year ago, has brought a fashion background and a new approach to the business, from assortment planning to limited-time offerings.

Morrissey and Ireland share how they're working to engage Rhinegeist's diverse customer base, from out-of-town visitors to the brewery's Cincinnati taproom, to its home market "super fans."

"We're trying to get as many skull drop T-shirts on as many people as possible for every occasion," Morrissey said.

Morrissey and Ireland discuss efforts to re-engage fans with new products via event-driven and limited-time offerings and monthly product drops.

"We're exploring doing a lot more illustration, a lot more nods back to Cincinnati heritage and just having a lot more fun with it, a lot more humor," Morrissey said. "And then driving sales with scarcity, essentially, and keeping our assortment fresh. It's such a good lever to pull to just keep things fresh, keep people coming back to check what we have that's new."

The conversation covers trend spotting, sourcing inspiration, partnering with brands and tapping into a collector community. Morrissey and Ireland also share why creating emotion is key to breaking through with consumers. Plus, they share when to cut bait on slow-moving inventory.

Ahead of the interview, the Brewbound team talks through Republic National Distributing Company's (RNDC) exit from California. Plus, the trio play Another Round or Tabbing Out on the creation of family-friendly spaces, and Almanac CEO Damian Fagan's distaste of the word "taproom."

3 Tier Beverages on Key Bev-Alc Trends for Summer 2025

Wed, 28 May 2025 22:11:36 +0000

The team at 3 Tier Beverages breaks down hot trends in bev-alc heading into the summer selling season on the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast.

3 Tier Beverages founder Donn Bichsel, consultant Danelle Kosmal and CGA VP Matthew Crompton share a complete look at trends in the off- and on-premise, including continued momentum for non-alcoholic beer, hard juice's rocketing growth and the growing simplicity movement within craft.

"The biggest opportunity for this summer and within the next year is just engaging new consumers and creating new drinking occasions," Kosmal said of NA beer.

Kosmal also covers why craft lagers are working, how flavored lagers such as lime are performing and what opportunities still exist in the space. Bichsel cautions craft brewers against playing the pricing game with mainstream lager brands.

"When most of your revenue is coming from 4-packs, 6-packs and you start playing in the 12-packs, 15s, 18s, 24s, I think you're chasing a losing proposition," he said. "You've got to be very careful or be prepared to have a high price and just give up some of your turns."

Kosmal and Crompton explore why ABV and style remain among the key factors driving consumer purchases. They also cover the three pillars of innovation growth – NA beer, flavor and craft line extensions – and explain why flavor is leading the way within new products, led by AriZona's Jumex Hard Nectar.

Before the conversation, Brewbound editor Justin Kendall and senior reporter Zoe Licata analyze 2024 craft brewery production data, which the Brewers Association released last week, including New Belgium leapfrogging Anheuser-Busch InBev's craft portfolio, big losses for Boston Beer, big gains for Athletic Brewing and the regional craft breweries leveling up.

NB2A's Kevin Asato on Supporting Black Brewers in Tough Times; Yonder Cider's Caitlin Braam Speaking to Many Audiences

Tue, 27 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

National Black Brewers Association (NB2A) executive director Kevin Asato explains how obstacles have mounted for the trade group's members as diversity, equity and inclusion efforts have come under fire during the Trump administration.

"The beautiful thing is, I was Black yesterday. I'm Black today. And god willing I wake up tomorrow, I'll be Black tomorrow," he said. "The point being, just because there isn't a tagline like DEI available, doesn't mean our challenges and our need for diversity and our need to help our Black brewers in this space has gone away. Nothing has changed. Not a single thing has changed for our space here."

Asato shares with Brewbound managing editor Jess Infante how the NB2A is supporting its 86 Black-owned brewery members and its nearly 400 overall members during a special bonus edition of the Brewbound Podcast. He also explains why equipment donations have been key for up-and-coming Black breweries, teases ancient grain fonio's potential inclusion in Volume 3 of the Black is Beautiful collaboration efforts and talks about why some retailers are doubling-down on diverse brands.

Following the conversation with Asato, Yonder Cider founder Caitlin Braam joins Brewbound senior reporter Zoe Licata to explain how experimenting with events at her brand's taproom has broadened her hard cider brand's consumer base.

A shared taproom partnership with craft beer brand Bale Breaker has also helped Yonder breakthrough with new audiences, she explains. It's all about "not being exclusive" and "making spaces and places for various audiences, not just one."

"There isn't just one audience for your brand. There are many. And you have to find ways to talk to them each individually," she said.

Both conversations were recorded during the 2025 Craft Brewers Conference in Indianapolis.

Lagers, IPAs and National Parks with Sierra Nevada and New Trail at CBC

Wed, 21 May 2025 20:55:59 +0000

Leaders from Sierra Nevada and New Trail discuss their craft portfolios, innovation, packaging and recent wins during the 2025 Craft Brewers Conference.

Sierra Nevada chief commercial officer Ellie Preslar and chief brewing officer Brian Grossman sit down with Brewbound editor Justin Kendall for a chat about new offering Pils, Pale Ale's limited edition National Parks packaging and Big Little Thing's recent glow-up.

Then, New Trail chief operating officer Mike LaRosa joins Brewbound managing editor Jessica Infante for a chat about the fast-growing Pennsylvania brewery's volume gains, IPA-heavy innovation slate and debut on the Brewers Association's top 50 list.

But first, Jess and Zoe break down all the beer industry news, including distributors' not-so-sunny outlook on the category as we enter summer, DoorDash's findings that more people want booze delivered to their homes and the latest brands to leave RNDC in California.

They also discuss new Masshole Light Lager in depth and reveal appreciations for greater Boston's gruff reputation and … seagulls.

The Future of Hops: New Varieties and Technologies from Clayton Hops

Wed, 21 May 2025 19:08:42 +0000

Brian Clayton, CEO of Clayton Hops, discusses the company's growth to four farms in New Zealand and their innovative hop products. He highlights their Amplifire™ pellets and oil, which boost flavor and aroma, increase beer yields, and offer environmental benefits like a low carbon footprint due to direct oil extraction from wet hop cones. These products are ideal for cold-side applications and also work well in hop waters and non-alcoholic beers.

Clayton also shares their rapid processing of T90 hop pellets, achieving completion within seven days of harvest. The company is introducing new hop varieties in partnership with Plant & Food Research, with commercial availability expected in 2025, offering unique "kiwi" flavors for brewers. Despite a 10% US tariff, the favorable foreign exchange rate helps maintain affordability. He invites interested parties to learn more and order through their website, which includes an e-commerce platform for US customers.

Live from CBC – Right Proper's Leah Cheston and Hi-Wire's Adam Charnack

Wed, 14 May 2025 18:40:14 +0000

Craft Brewers Conference conversations continue on the Brewbound Podcast with a pair of interviews featuring Right Proper Brewing co-owner and Brewers Association board chairwoman Leah Cheston and Hi-Wire Brewing co-owner Adam Charnack.

Cheston and Brewbound managing editor Jessica Infante discuss Executive Order Me a Beer – Right Proper's pay-it-forward program to support laid off federal employees with beers and networking – and the unique experiences of parents in the beer industry. Charnack discusses the recovery process of Hi-Wire's flagship location in Asheville in the wake of Hurricane Helene with senior reporter Zoe Licata.

In addition, Zoe and Jess discuss the last gasp of Q1 earnings season, the cooler selection at Zoe's parents' most recent gathering and Instacart's new party platform, Fizz.

Brewing a New Look: Prairie Malt's Bold Refresh

Tue, 13 May 2025 18:21:00 +0000

In this Brewbound Podcast episode, Prairie Malt's Regional Craft Manager for North America, Liam Colford, discusses the company's bold rebranding efforts and the motivations behind them. Recognizing that ingredient suppliers often appear traditional or outdated, Prairie Malt decided to inject more personality and creativity into its brand. The refreshed look includes new logos, packaging, apparel, and a revamped website, aiming to align more closely with the dynamic and colorful world of craft brewing.

Liam also highlights the advantages of Prairie Malt being part of Boortmalt, a global malting company with extensive reach and infrastructure. This connection allows Prairie to offer a wide catalog of over 60 malts while keeping costs down through a streamlined, internal supply chain. Customers benefit from this efficiency, especially during times of international instability, with consistent pricing and reliable access to high-quality malts sourced globally.

Looking ahead, Prairie Malt is expanding its catalog with several exciting new offerings, including German Vienna and Munich malts, and a Czech-inspired "Bohemian Rhapsody" pilsner malt. These additions cater to brewers looking to innovate and differentiate their products in a maturing craft beer market. For those interested in sampling these new malts or learning more, visit prairiemalt.com or follow @prairiemalt on Instagram to stay connected and request samples.

Brewers Association CEO Bart Watson on the State of the Craft Beer

Wed, 07 May 2025 19:59:38 +0000

Brewers Association (BA) president and CEO Bart Watson entered the Brewbound Podcast studio last week fresh off stage from giving his State of the Industry speech at the 2025 Craft Brewers Conference (CBC).

Watson discussed key takeaways from his speech, including why the 4% volume decline for craft last year wasn't everyone's experience, as 43% of craft breweries found growth last year.

"You can have a number where yes, the middle it is negative, but there's still lots of people on the positive side," Watson explained during a conversation with Brewbound's Jess Infante and Justin Kendall on the Brewbound Podcast.

Watson also discussed why the growing number of closures has hit the long-tail of craft breweries – those making fewer than 500 barrels of beer – the hardest.

"Running a small business is hard," Watson said. "They're just on the smallest line of, 'OK, the landlord changes the rent when our lease is up.' … Main Street gets torn up because the city is doing construction. It disrupts our traffic.'

"A 2,000-barrel brewery is going to have resources and options to weather that; a 500-barrel brewery might not," he continued. "Those are members that we're trying to think about how we help, how we drive foot traffic and what we can do to improve their conditions."

The conversation touches on several topics, including:

How the BA is advocating for its members with the Trump administration in Washington, D.C., and why it's important for brewery owners to connect with lawmakers;
Why full-strength spirits are being added to the Great American Beer Festival and how that's manifesting in a way to support BA members;
Whether the event could move away from Denver in the future;
Why there is a perception versus reality issue with consumers when it comes to the flavors that craft offers beyond IPA;
And his overall read on the vibe of CBC.

Ahead of the interview, the Brewbound team also discusses recent headlines, including Rhinegeist's NA beer venture and Tilray CEO Irwin Simon's honest thoughts on the company's stock price. Plus, the team plays Another Round or Tabbing Out on the commercialization of B.O.R.G.s, and Zoe dishes on her motorsport adventures.

CBC Week is Here; Plus, Drawdown Founder Liz Nicol

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 14:09:18 +0000

The Brewers Association's Craft Brewers Conference has taken over Indianapolis, and the Brewbound team gives a vibe check on the first day of the largest meeting of craft brewers in the U.S.

Justin, Jess and Zoe recap early presentations from BA board chair Leah Cheston, president and CEO Bart Watson and Trillium founders JC and Esther Tetreault and the overarching theme of resilience in the face of adversity.

Plus, Jess interviews Liz Nicol, the founder of Drawdown Brewing in Boston's Jamaica Plain neighborhood, on her brewery's embrace of women's sports, community building and running a membership club.

Brewers Association Staff Economist Matt Gacioch on Craft Brewers' 'Realistic' Mindsets, Industry Trends, Headwinds & CBC

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 21:08:43 +0000

When Brewers Association (BA) staff economist Matt Gacioch is asked whether craft brewers are optimistic or pessimistic, his response is "brewers are realistic."

"They are understanding that this is a new environment that they are operating in," Gacioch said during the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast. "Mid-April 2025 is very different than mid-April 2015."

Gacioch, who is in his first year as a full-time employee of the BA, described a maturing and challenging craft beer market for a variety of factors, from consumer consumption shifts to increased competition and variety to economic pressures and tariffs.

"The way that consumers and markets don't like uncertainty, small business owners really don't like uncertainty," he said. "That is the environment that we're in right now. There's a lot of products that go into beer making and [the] operating of a brewery [that] can be bought from within the U.S., but the supply chain is so complex and so global that certain tariffs are going to have an impact on pricing of brewery inputs.

"So not being able to plan too far into the future because of how things have been changing so quickly has made it really tough for brewery owners to make great beer and feel like they can make a solid business plan for the year and years ahead," he continued.

Which brings us to the 2025 edition of the Craft Brewers Conference taking place in Indianapolis next week (April 28-May 1). Gacioch anticipates that many of the conversations inside and outside of the Indiana Convention Center will center on those factors and strategies for pushing forward, including his own seminar (1:15 p.m. ET Tuesday, April 29) discussing case studies from breweries who tapped into growth drivers in 2024.

Gacicoh also touches on new breweries making this year's top 50 craft list, potential opportunities and challenges for breweries adding food service and why he's excited for CBC. Plus, more conversation about kicking field goals than you'd expect.

But first, the Brewbound team recaps the latest news, including the BA's recent webinar on tariffs and the NBWA and Fintech's Q1 2025 webinar on beer category sales trends. Justin, Jess and Zoe play Another Round or Tabbing Out on copycat designs infiltrating the hard lemonade and iced tea space, with a hat tip to Fingers' Dave Infante.

Top 50 Breweries, a California Craft-on-Craft Merger and a Conversation with Ibotta

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 16:26:49 +0000

The Brewbound team catches up on the latest headlines, including the Brewers Association's release of its top 50 breweries lists and updated data; the newest craft-on-craft merger between Fort Point Beer Co. and HenHouse Brewing in California; the closure of another Monster-owned production brewery; the surprise shutdown of a craft-centric distributor in Vermont; and the retirement of Molson Coors longtime CEO.

Jess, Justin and Zoe also play Another Round or Tabbing Out on a shower beer collaboration.

Plus, Jess and Justin interview Chris Riedy, chief revenue officer for cashback rewards app and tech and date insights firm Ibotta.

Crafting Tech for Craft Makers: Arryved's All-In-One POS and Capital Solution for Breweries

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 16:00:00 +0000

In this Brewbound Podcast interview, Ray Latif sat down with Ron Nelson, VP of Sales at Arryved, to discuss how the Boulder-based technology company is revolutionizing the craft beverage industry with its brewery-first approach to POS systems and now, funding.

Originally founded out of Avery Brewing Co., Arryved was created to solve a challenge that many breweries still face today: finding a point-of-sale solution specifically designed for the unique operations of a taproom or production brewery.

Arryved's dedication to the craft community doesn't stop at software. With the launch of Arryved Capital, the company is now helping breweries scale faster by providing access to quick, flexible funding. Whether it's a new tank, an expansion, or more barrels in production, Nelson says the process is fast and intuitive—because the Arryved team already understands the revenue model and rhythms of the businesses they serve.

Meet Arryved at CBC Booth #1865

Looking to upgrade your taproom technology or access funding to fuel your next stage of growth? Stop by Booth #1865 at the Craft Brewers Conference and grab a pour courtesy of Arryved's brewing customers!

The Latest Spirits News, Plus Colorado Craft-on-Craft Brewery Deals

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 21:27:52 +0000

Tariffs and economic uncertainty were hot topics during the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States' (DISCUS) annual meeting in late March.

BevNET spirits editor Ferron Salniker joins this week's Brewbound Podcast to share the scuttlebutt from the meeting, including trends to watch, distributor consolidation and supplier jumps to beer distributors.

Plus, Justin and Zoe share their experiences after attending Bell's Oberon Day in Kalamazoo, Michigan. They also break down the latest craft-on-craft deal activity in Colorado with new partnerships between Left Hand-Dry Dock and Wilding Brands-Great Divide.

The show wraps up with Another Round or Tabbing Out on breweries revamping existing brands, including a taste of Sierra Nevada's transformation of Big Little Thing into a hazy imperial IPA.

Exploring the Future of Hops: Hop Products Australia's Latest Harvest & Innovations

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 17:28:32 +0000

In this Brewbound interview, host Ray Latif speaks with Chris Swersey of Hop Products Australia and Steve Luke of Cloudburst Brewing to discuss the latest hop harvest, new investments in processing, and exciting beer collaborations. Chris shares insights on HPA's recent harvest, noting that yields and quality were well above average. He also highlights the company's new $35 million pellet plant, which will enhance the quality of their finished products.

Steve discusses his experience brewing with HPA's Galaxy hops, particularly in the new collaboration beer "Yay Space," set to debut at the CBC. He explains how the beer blends fresh and aged lots of Galaxy, creating a balanced hazy IPA with a drier finish. With enthusiasm for the latest crop, both Chris and Steve express optimism about the future of Galaxy hops and the opportunities they create for brewers worldwide.

For more information on Hop Products Australia and their latest hop innovations, visit hops.com.au. Be sure to check out Cloudburst Brewing and their latest collaboration, "Yay Space," at the Haas & HPA booth during CBC!

Road Report from the New England Craft Brew Summit

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 16:52:59 +0000

What's going on in the country's second-densest craft beer state? The Brewbound team hit the road to Portland, Maine, to find out.

While in town for the New England Craft Brew Summit, Brewbound managing editor Jess Infante and senior reporter Zoe Licata checked in with 3 leaders to take the pulse of Maine's formidable (and cheerfully collaborative) craft scene.

This special Maine-centric episode kicks off with Maine Brewers' Guild executive director Sarah Bryan. Bryan dishes on the hottest topics impacting Maine brewers right now – including concerns over decreased tourism from Canada – as well as goals for her second year as executive director.

"A huge strategic goal of ours is to re-stitch-together a sense of pre-COVID[-19] camaraderie in the industry," Bryan said.

"It's very easy for breweries to feel like they're on an island, there's always something more to be done, the work is never finished, there's never quite enough hands, you can never make enough beer and there's never enough storage. … Being in this role has impressed on me how deserving these breweries are of working channels of communication, creating pathways for them to work together."

The team then chats with Thirsty Pig owner Allison Stevens about the craft beer bar and changes she witnessed in how the craft industry is operating, including distribution consolidation and shrinking sales teams. She also gives tips for how breweries can be the best partners for Thirsty Pig and other retail accounts.

Then, Orange Bike Brewing co-founder and CEO Tom Ruff chats about the origins of the gluten-free-dedicated craft brewery, and how the venture has opened his eyes to the amount of consumers looking for GF options, and the impact the availability of diverse beer options has on connecting the community.

Brewbound editor Justin Kendall also joins the episode to discuss some of this week's California-centric headlines, including the formation of Sunset Distributing in LA and San Diego and the sale of Anderson Valley Brewing.

An Exit Interview with Bell's Brewery EVP Carrie Yunker

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 20:00:36 +0000

Carrie Yunker ended her more than two-decade run at Bell's Brewery on a high note Monday – Oberon Day, the annual release of the company's spring-summer seasonal wheat beer.

Yunker, who started at the Michigan craft brewery as a part-time receptionist and ended up leading the company as founder Larry Bell's handpicked successor, kicked off the festivities at the brewery's Kalamazoo taphouse and event space by raising an Oberon flag.

Hundreds of Michiganders and fans from neighboring states, many wearing costumes, lined up and waited for hours for the taphouse to open and to drink this year's Oberon and several special variants.

For Yunker, Oberon Day was a fitting way to say goodbye as employee No. 50.

"This day is the best of everything," she says in this week's episode of the Brewbound Podcast. "It's the best of Kalamazoo, which is a city that I love so much. It's the best of craft beer, which if you throwback craft beer to its heyday, it's really about bringing people together and community. And what you will see is the streets of Kalamazoo, lined with people wearing teal, wearing orange, drinking Oberon, lighting up not just our account but accounts all over Kalamazoo.

"It really is this wonderful amalgamation. .... It's food and fun and family and community and this day represents that, not just here in Kalamazoo, but you see that spotlighted across the Great Lakes."

Yunker described her time as EVP as "the privilege of my life to lead such an amazing, amazing team and brand."

So why step away? Yunker explained that she and her husband became empty nesters last fall, which led to more time for reflection.

"The silence created some space for me to really think about what's next for me, what's next for our family," she said.

"I have lots of dear friends and people that I love who are living in a place where they are fearful," she continued. "When I think about what I could do and take some of my leadership and my business acumen and potentially apply that in a different way to go do work either in politics or nonprofit to really make sure that people can live and love the way that they like.

"That's something that really motivates me."

In the conversation, Yunker discusses taking over for Larry Bell and how their leadership styles differed, guiding the brewery through several milestones and her favorite moments, including an off-the-cuff comment during a TV interview that led to 300 people showing up at the Comstock brewery for an impromptu job fair.

Full Disclosure: Bell's Brewery covered airfare and hotel accommodations for the Brewbound team to record this interview during Oberon Day.

Rob Tod on 30 Years of Allagash

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 21:01:06 +0000

Allagash Brewing will celebrate its 30th anniversary this summer, and founder Rob Tod knows where he'll be and what he'll be drinking on the brewery's birthday, July 1 – an Allagash White at the Great Lost Bear, the taphouse that served the first pint of White in Portland, Maine.

"I remember it like it was yesterday. That was our very first draftline," Tod tells Brewbound managing editor Jess Infante on the latest episode of the Brewbound Podcast. "I shipped eight kegs of Allagash White to Nappi Distributors on June 29, and July 1 I worked at the brewery all day and my plan was to head down to the Bear where I knew it was going on tap at 5 o'clock, and just hang out for a few hours and having a bunch of beers.

"I thought, my work's going to be done. I've spent a year building the brewery. I've written this recipe, I've brewed the beer. I'm kind of all done," he continued.

Tod had a pint with the Bear's owners and was happy with it. He had a second pint and a realization hit him: "I've got to get back to work."

"I got in my car and I drove right back to the brewery and kept working on whatever I was working on at the time just continuing to build and piece the brewery together," Tod said. "I've always felt like the work isn't done."

In the conversation, Tod Tod discusses growing Allagash into the 15th largest Brewers Association-defined craft brewery by volume. He also explains what Allagash is looking for in distributor partners, how much capacity his brewery has left for expansion and why the brewery pulled back in the early 2000s.

"We've really optimized how we can support a market, whether it's a really close local market like Boston or Minnesota, Colorado or even Los Angeles," Tod explained. "We really do feel like we've got a strong, competitive go-to-market plan and that we can do a really solid, optimized job supporting our distributor partners."

Tod taps into Allagash's innovation approach that checks the boxes of "balanced, drinkability, complexity and authenticity" and how the launches of a lager, hazy IPA and variety pack feed into those pillars.

Plus, the Brewbound team recaps the latest headlines and plays Another Round or Tabbing Out on Minute Maid Spiked's foray into lemonade, pink and otherwise.

Introducing...Nombase!

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

We're launching something BIG at BevNET, NOSH, and Brewbound, and you're invited to be the first to see it! Introducing Nombase — a new digital community and directory built for the CPG world. Nombase connects CPG professionals with trusted industry partners, AI-powered insights, timely conversations, company announcements, and job opportunities — all in one place. Join us for an exclusive overview, product demo, and info on how to take advantage of what Nombase has to offer you.

A St. Patrick's Day Primer with Guinness

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 19:18:57 +0000

Guinness is synonymous with U.S. St. Patrick's Day celebrations. National ambassador Ryan Wagner joins the Brewbound Podcast to discuss preparation for the holiday, how the Splitting the G viral phenomenon has played a role in the brand's upward trajectory and introduces it to new consumers.

Wagner also discusses the on-premise rebound following the pandemic, what goes into creating a perfect Guinness pour and consumer learnings in recent months.

Plus, the Brewbound team discusses the latest news coming out of Constellation Brands' Gold Network Summit with distributors, the New England Craft Beer Summit and the financial picture for the Brewers Association.

Jess, Zoe and Justin also play Another Round or Tabbing Out on recent beyond beer innovation plays, including Constellation's Rule of Five hard punch; Boston Beer's Sinless vodka RTDs and Just Hard Squeezed FMB; and Barrel One's latest crossover brand with Crystal Light Vodka Refreshers.

World Brewing Alliance Justin Kissinger on Global Beer Hot Topics

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 11:00:00 +0000

World Brewing Alliance CEO Justin Kissinger dishes on the global beer market, non-alcoholic beer trends, the rise of West African ancient grain fonio and emerging markets.

In addition, Kissinger dives into the dietary guidelines that are under review and may be revised. He also shares his favorite places in the world to drink beer.

Plus, the Brewbound team recaps the latest earnings reports from Boston Beer, Monster and Anheuser-Busch InBev, including standout quotes from Boston Beer founder Jim Koch.

And Another Round or Tabbing Out returns with the recent news that some major brewpub chains will begin selling domestics and imports.

An Energy Drink M&A Crash Course

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 16:46:26 +0000

In a very special crossover episode, BevNET managing editor Martín Caballero joins the Brewbound Podcast to break down the blockbuster Celsius/Alani Nu deal.

Marty discusses what energy deals usually mean for the beer distributors that built the acquired brands, current trends in non-alc energy and functional drinks and what brewers can learn from the space.

Then, Jess and Zoe get into recent beer news, including Brown-Forman's upcoming move to the Reyes network in California; proposed legislative changes in Georgia, Idaho and Maryland; and an upcoming departure from the Michigan craft scene (we miss you already, Carrie).

Non-Alc Beer Has a Record Dry January in Grocery Stores

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 18:39:50 +0000

January 2025 was a record month for non-alcoholic (NA) beer in grocery stores. NA beer claimed a 4.2% share of beer grocery sales during the month, according to NIQ food store data shared by Bump Williams Consulting.

The Brewbound team discusses how Dry January shook out, plus why industry leaders are bullish on regional cider; how the dots connect between the Consumer Price Index for beer at home outpacing overall inflation and beer's 2024 summer slump; and who is keynoting the Brewers Association's Craft Brewers Conference in Indianapolis.

Plus, Justin, Jess and Zoe play Another Round or Tabbing Out on a surprise bev-alc platform and the We Love LA collaboration beer effort.

Lawson's Finest CEO on a Decade of Sip of Sunshine

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 20:13:45 +0000

2025 marks a milestone year for Lawson's Finest Liquids and its flagship Sip of Sunshine IPA. How will the Vermont craft brewery celebrate? CEO Adeline Druart shares details on the latest Brewbound Podcast.

Druart, who took over as CEO in June 2023, shares the keys to keeping Sip growing, including a commitment to cold-chain distribution. She also discusses the crossover of her previous life in dairy, with the addition of cheese to Lawson's taproom.

The conversation also covers Lawson's expansion into North Carolina and Virginia, if more markets will follow, additions to the Sunshine family, B-Corp status and the brewery's Airbnb.

Plus, the Brewbound team discusses Zoe's trip to CiderCon and her Super Bowl celebration, more ad talk and play a game of Another Round or Tabbing Out on Anheuser-Busch's American versus domestic and Ball recycling its aluminum cup business.

How New Orleans' Southern Eagle Preps for Super Bowl Sunday – and Mardi Gras

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 20:51:14 +0000

Super Bowl LIX (59) kicks off on February 9 in New Orleans. What's life like for the Anheuser-Busch distributor in one of the country's biggest party towns ahead of one of the beer industry's biggest days?

Brandon Frederick, VP of sales; Greg Naquin, director of off-premise sales; and Kris Cutrell, director of on-premise sales walk through the preparations for the game, the expectations placed on them, the biggest pain points and much more.

Plus, the Brewbound team recaps the latest news, including why beer is expected to be the winner on Super Bowl Sunday, how many Dry January adherents stuck to their abstinence pledges and a first-hand report from Lagunitas' annual Dog Pile distributor meeting.

This week's game of Another Round or Tabbing Out tackles the slate of Super Bowl ads from Molson Coors and Anheuser-Busch, as well as Splitting the G copycats.

Pitch Slam Winner Hurray's Girl Beer

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 16:44:59 +0000

Hurray's Girl Beer won Brewbound's 2024 Pitch Slam competition during the Brewbound Live business conference last month in Marina del Rey, California.

Founder Ray Biebuyck joins the Brewbound Podcast to discuss how Hurray's Girl Beer is working to reclaim the term "Girl Beer," the brand's post-ironic, satirical and humorous vibe and why it's attempting to create a discourse about women and beer.

Biebuyck explains why she's interested in bringing women into the beer category, while getting her beer to stand out both on shelf and in social media algorithms.

Hear more from Biebuyck in this week's featured interview. Plus, the Brewbound team dives into the latest news, including the split between the Brewers Association and the American Homebrewers Association and hard times at Sapporo-Stone and Monster Brewing.

Also, Another Round or Tabbing Out returns with discussions around "faux-stalgia" lager brands, cannabev advertising and a surprising cameo by Angry Orchard.

The Year in Beer 2024

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 22:55:21 +0000

A tough year for craft. Big changes at the Brewers Association. A billionaire saving Anchor from the abyss. Looming dietary guidelines for alcoholic beverages …

2024 was a whirlwind.

To wrap up the year that was, the Brewbound team is joined by Christopher Shepard, senior editor of Beer Marketer's Insights, and Dave Infante, author of the Fingers newsletter and a contributing editor and columnist at VinePair.

The quintet gives the inside scoop on covering some of the year's top stories, and dives into the news to watch in 2025.

New Belgium CEO Shaun Belongie on Asheville Recovery Efforts, Mini Ripper Cans, Hard Refreshers and Oberon Light

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 15:54:59 +0000

New Belgium Brewing resumed brewing at its Asheville, North Carolina-based production facility this week for the first time since Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc on the region and shut down the brewery's operations.

It was a significant stoppage for the company as the Asheville brewery accounted for around 40% of New Belgium's total output. In the wake of the hurricane, the brewery was flooded with around 20 inches of storm water.

More than three months after being knocked offline, Voodoo Ranger Juice Force will be the first beer going into the tanks in Asheville, with packaged products expected to follow in March.

New Belgium CEO Shaun Belongie joins the Brewbound Podcast to discuss the comeback in Asheville, the company's still-unfolding contingency plans and the road ahead.

Belongie also shares New Belgium's 2025 plans, including the introduction of "Mini Ripper" cans of higher ABV Voodoo Ranger Force offerings; LightStrike hard refreshers; and Bell's Oberon Light. He also explores going into year eight of Voodoo Ranger, the opportunities for Bell's, building brands outside of the craft beer bubble and taking over sales, marketing and production of Kirin Ichiban.

Plus, the Brewbound team talks Zoe's trip to the Beer Summit, 2024 off-premise scans and Tilray Brands' Project 420.

Barrel One Collective Execs Discuss Deal That Merged Harpoon and Smuttynose

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 21:30:31 +0000

Leaders of the newly former Barrel One Collective shared their vision for the new platform, which was formed from the merger of Harpoon Brewery's parent company Mass. Bay Brewing and Smuttynose's home of FinestKind Brewing.

Harpoon co-founder and CEO Dan Kenary and FinestKind CEO Steve Kierstead explained how the platform came together, how open they are to adding to the collective and the types of partners they'd welcome, and how they're approaching innovation with a portfolio that now boasts 14 brands.

Kenary also discussed the circumstances that led to the end of Harpoon's employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). Moving forward, Kenary will lead Barrel One as CEO, while Kierstead will move into the role of chief commercial officer.

Plus, Brewbound editor Justin Kendall and managing editor Jess Infante share their history covering Mass. Bay and Smuttynose and dive into the latest headlines, including the surgeon general's advisory calling for cancer warnings on bev-alc labels and WWE's investment in Hulk Hogan's Real American Beer.

Garrett Oliver Dishes on Fonio Rising; Plus, Breeze Galindo Discusses the Michael James Jackson Foundation for Brewing & Distilling

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 19:11:36 +0000

This week's Brewbound Podcast features a pair of interviews with 2024 Brewbound Award Winners. Brooklyn Brewery brewmaster Garrett Oliver shares why fonio is a game-changing ancient grain for brewers. Brewbound named Brooklyn's Fonio Rising series of beers its 2024 Best New Product.

Plus, Breeze Galindo, director of operations of the Michael James Jackson Foundation for Brewing & Distilling, discusses the work of the grant-making and mentorship organization, which pays for technical education scholarships for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color in the brewing and distilling industries looking to continue their education.

But first, Brewbound editor Justin Kendall and reporter Zoe Licata are joined by weekend newsletter writer Sean McNulty to review the latest headlines, including Jim Koch's succession plan at Boston Beer and President Jimmy Carter's impact on craft brewing's history.

Sean also quizzes Justin and Zoe for his "Week in Beer Awards."

Bart Watson Shares His Vision for the Brewers Association

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 15:00:00 +0000

Incoming Brewers Association (BA) president and CEO Bart Watson joined the Brewbound Podcast this week to share how he's approaching the new role with the trade group.

Watson, the BA's VP of strategy and membership, was named as the successor to long-time leader Bob Pease, who will retire on January 3. Watson will take the post on January 6.

On the podcast, Watson explains how the trade group representing small and independent craft brewers will be "ruthlessly member centric" moving forward and serve as a problem-solving organization.

He also discusses how his leadership style may differ from Pease, the benefits of having a front-row-seat over the last 12 years, his approach to the BA's "big tent" membership and who gets in that tent, and the biggest opportunity ahead for the trade group.

Brewers Association Picks a New CEO, A Brewbound Live Recap & the 2024 Person of the Year

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 20:40:09 +0000

The Brewers Association has tapped Bart Watson to lead the trade group for small and independent brewers, following the planned retirement of Bob Pease. The Brewbound team breaks down the choice and the challenges ahead for Watson in his new role, as well as the larger industry after last week's release of the "Year in Beer" report.

Plus, Jess, Zoe and Justin share highlights of the Brewbound LIve business conference and the underlying theme of "focus," the primer on intoxicating hemp and a new long-time partnership between Dogfish Head and the Grateful Dead. They also discuss the winner of the 2024 Brewbound Pitch Slam competition, Hurray's Girl Beer.

The show wraps up with an interview with Brewbound's 2024 Person of the Year, Highland Brewing president Leah Wong Ashburn, who shares details of a new beer release that will help North Carolina hospitality workers in the wake of Hurricane Helene.

Meet Brewbound's 2024 Craft Brewery, Large Brewery and Beyond Beer Company of the Year

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 18:00:00 +0000

Brewbound revealed the winners of its 2024 awards during the Brewbound Live business conference this week in Marina del Rey, California.

This week's Brewbound Podcast features interviews with three of those award winners:

The 2024 Craft Brewery of the Year, Coronado Brewing Company;
The 2024 Large Brewery of the Year, Narragansett Beer;
And the 2024 Beyond Beer Company of the Year, Surfside.

Coronado co-founder Rick Chapman discusses how Weekend Vibes IPA was the catalyst for spurring the San Diego brewery's growth.

Narragansett Beer owner Mark Hellendrung shares how the Rhode Island legacy brand reversed fortunes and is now producing over 100,000 barrels.

And Surfside co-founder and CEO Clem Pappas breaks down the growth of the canned cocktail brand, which was the fastest growing spirits brand in the U.S. in 2024.

Molson Coors Buys a Brewery, the BA Elects New Board Members and Krampus Talk

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 22:01:55 +0000

The Brewbound returns from Thanksgiving breaks to discuss the pre-turkey day news dump, including Molson Coors' agreement to purchase the intellectual property of Cruz Blanca and why the Mexican-inspired, Chicago-produced brand is now on the clock.

Jess, Zoe and Justin also break down the results of the Brewers Association's board election and why this one was a bit out of the ordinary.

The conversation then turns to Olde Mecklenburg's recent global collaboration, Americans' dream of brewery ownership (at least in five states), Rogue's new Pacific Northwest IPA and Krampus' reappearance in Jess' spooky town.

Brewers Association Changes, Lagunitas' CEO Swap & a Brewbound Live Preview

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 16:39:44 +0000

After a packed news week, the Brewbound team breaks down the latest headlines, including leadership reorganization and staff cuts at the Brewers Association, an impending CEO change at Heineken-owned Lagunitas Brewing and Sapporo-Stone ceasing exports for the craft beer brand.

Jess, Zoe and Justin also preview the Brewbound Live business conference coming up December 11 and 12 in Marina del Rey, California. The team shares highlights of the on-stage talks and surrounding events, including networking parties, the Pitch Slam competition and retailer and wholesaler one-to-one conversations.

Stout Collective's Matt Tanaka on Keeping Beer Branding and Events Fresh in 2025

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 21:48:25 +0000

Stout Collective founder and CEO Matt Tanaka walks us through expected design trends for 2025, including why he believes mascots and maximalism will be a feature of beer labels in the new year.

Tanaka also breaks down the goals and experience of Stout Collective's BOPP Beer Design Conference, held annually in Chicago. He shares how his firm tries to keep the conference fresh and the conversations uninhibited.

But first, Brewbound reporter Zoe Licata shares insights from the Beer Marketer's Insights summit in New York City. Zoe recaps New Belgium CEO Shaun Belongie's energetic presentation, highlighting the addition of Mini Ripper 7.5 oz. cans of Voodoo Ranger Juice Force and Tropic Force, the occasion smaller cans are meeting, the launch of alcoholic sports drink LightStrike, some shade for amber ales and an admission that the reformulated Fat Tire didn't go well.

Our 200th Episode Extravaganza

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 21:00:34 +0000

This week the Brewbound Podcast crossed the 200th episode milestone. Insider's Week in Beer newsletter writer Sean McNulty joins to celebrate.

The Brewbound team recaps the latest headlines, including the Lord Hobo-Lone Pine merger, the Beer Institute's Annual Membership Meeting, layoffs at Molson Coors' remaining craft production facilities and Monster's Q3 financial results.

Plus, the gang plays Another Round or Tabbing Out, recalls Episode 100 (we think) and time capsules recent life moments for the next podcast milestone.

It's a fast-moving show, with an unexpected Real Housewives detour.

Highland Brewing's Leah Wong Ashburn on Asheville's Recovery in the Aftermath of Hurricane Helene

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 17:02:00 +0000

Highland Brewing owner and CEO Leah Wong Ashburn provides an update on how Asheville, one of the country's great craft beer cities, is recovering in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

Last weekend, Highland brewed its first beer since the hurricane cut a path of destruction through Western North Carolina. Ashburn shares the steps the brewery took to return to operations, starting with ensuring that all of its team members were accounted for and had their basic needs covered, and then stabilizing the business. She also explains the importance of people visiting Asheville now, after the biggest month of business was wiped off the calendar.

Ashburn also discusses Highland's first post-hurricane milestone, the release of Cold Mountain winter ale November 7-11.

Plus, Jess and Justin touch on several headlines, including a craft brewery deal in Iowa, the vibes at the Massachusetts Craft Brewers Guild's annual meeting, a leadership change at the American Cider Association and the pending closure of Revolution Brewing's Logan Square brewpub after 15 years.

Modern Times' New Partners, Boston's 'Messy' Earnings & Beer Wins Halloween

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 15:10:11 +0000

The Brewbound team dives into the top stories in the beer business, including the "strategic partnerships" made by Maui Brewing parent company Craft 'Ohana to hand off leadership of Modern Times Beer's daily operations and hospitality businesses.

The team also discusses Boston Beer's latest earnings report, which one analyst called "messy," the performance of Twisted Tea and a write down on craft beer brands.

The conversation then turns to beer being the preferred choice for Halloween celebrations.

Plus, this week's episode features a pair of conversations recorded during the National Beer Wholesalers Association's Annual Convention.

The first features David Christman, NBWA VP of state affairs, who shares why intoxicating hemp is the most talked about state-level issue and why distributors should have a seat at the table of those discussions.

Then, Behold Beverage Intelligence's Sean Mossman and Glazer's Beer and Beverage's Laura Melzow will explain how artificial intelligence is changing workflow in the middle tier.

Chula Vista Founder Tim Parker on How Meditation Can Improve Your Business

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 17:41:38 +0000

Chula Vista Brewery co-founder Tim Parker shares how meditation, mindfulness and taking care of your mental health can help your business on the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast.

Parker discusses his personal journey, how he and his wife Dali have struck a better work-life balance and much more.

Plus, the Brewbound team covers the latest news, including a brewery that is backing away from brewing for partners, the 2025 plans for Duvel USA and Boulevard Brewing Company and UK brewers' move away from the "craft beer" label.

Lester Jones, Live From the NBWA Annual Convention, and a GABF Recap

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 21:19:10 +0000

Lester Jones, chief economist and VP of analytics at the National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA), joins the Brewbound team to discuss the importance of the on-premise, and how tides may be shifting in draft beer's favor. The conversation was recorded in San Diego during the NBWA Annual Convention and Product Showcase.

Brewbound editor Justin Kendall and reporter Zoe Licata also recap the reimagined Great American Beer Festival (GABF) to managing editor Jess Infante, who is suffering from a bad case of FOMO. The duo give a play-by-play of walking through the new GABF experience areas – Fright, Blast Off, Chill, Prost and Score – and other changes the Brewers Association made to the festival, as well as the best (and strangest) beers they tried, and whether they're getting Another Round or Tabbing Out on the additions.

The Premium Edge: Exploring Glass Packaging Trends with O-I

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 14:30:00 +0000

In this Brewbound interview, host Ray Latif sits down with Alexis Guetzlaff, Director of Marketing for Beer and Non-Alcoholic Beverages at O-I, one of the largest global producers of glass packaging. With over 15 years of experience in the packaging industry, Alexis delves into how glass is becoming the go-to packaging solution for brands aiming to offer a premium, sophisticated consumer experience.

Alexis discusses the evolving consumer preferences that favor glass bottles, especially in the beer industry, highlighting how glass packaging creates a sense of class and enhances the drinking experience. She shares O-I's latest research on consumer behavior, explaining how brands can use glass to differentiate themselves on crowded shelves and offer a variety of packaging options to meet different consumer "need states," from casual backyard barbecues to formal gatherings.

She also details O-I's innovative supply chain solutions, including their program to ensure consistent availability of stock beer bottles nationwide, allowing breweries and beverage brands to act quickly when scaling production.

To learn more about O-I or connect with Alexis, visit O-I.com, or connect with Alexis on LinkedIn.

How the Great American Beer Festival Was Reimagined

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 20:42:14 +0000

Brewers Association VP of marketing and communications Ann Obenchain joins this week's Brewbound Podcast to discuss how the trade group reimagined the Great American Beer Festival (GABF).

The refreshed GABF takes place Thursday through Saturday in Denver, and attendees should expect a more experiential feel this year, Obenchain explained. She acknowledged that past GABF events were nearly indistinguishable in look with the blue and yellow color scheme and lines of booths serving beer.

For 2024, the geographic or alphabetical lineup of booths are gone, replaced with six experiential areas and a product lineup that goes beyond beer to include cider, hard seltzer, ready-to-drink canned cocktails and more, Obenchain said.

The meet-the-brewer area returns, but this year's GABF will lean into the season with a Halloween-themed area called "Fright" that will include scare actors, decorations and giant LED inflatables, and a section called "Prost" with Oktoberfest vibes, including a biergarten, stein-holding contests and German oom-pah bands.

Other areas include "Score," with live sports played on televisions and foosball; "Blast Off," a space-themed area; and "Chill," with live music. Adding to the experience will be Lucha Libre, the pro wrestling style originated in Mexico starring masked wrestlers.

All of this is aimed at appealing to younger, experience-seeking attendees who have been the majority of GABF goers in recent years, Obenchain said. The goal is to keep them coming back and get them interested in craft beer. She added that over the last seven years, GABF attendees have skewed younger, with the majority of attendees in the key 21- to 34-year-old demographic.

Obenchain also discusses the addition of beyond beer offerings to the GABF lineup; the Paired add-on, beer-and-food pairing event; and what's new with the GABF Awards.

Wrapping Up the 2024 NBWA Annual Convention

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 19:07:16 +0000

The 87th Annual NBWA Convention wrapped up earlier this week, and the Brewbound team recaps the themes of this year's event.

Jess, Zoe and Justin break down the buzzy topics, including a push to support the on-premise channel (especially draft beer), the growing presence of intoxicating hemp beverages and how those products should get to market, and some unexpected things creating headwinds for beer companies, including online gambling and health tracking apps.

BREW Making Moves Preview With NBWA COO Kim McKinnish

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 16:05:37 +0000

Kimberly McKinnish, SVP and chief operating officer of the National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA), joins the Brewbound Podcast to preview Making Moves 2024, taking place October 1-2 in San Diego immediately following the NBWA's 87th annual convention.

Making Moves, now in its third year, is a collaborative effort from the NBWA's Building Relationships and Empowering Women (BREW) and the Alliance for Women in Beer. The two-day event includes presentations, panel discussions and networking designed to help women advance their careers in the beer industry.

Convention Prep With NBWA President Craig Purser

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 18:47:44 +0000

Craig Purser, president and CEO of the National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA), joins the Brewbound Podcast to preview highlights of the trade group's upcoming 87th annual convention and product showcase, taking place September 29-October 2 in San Diego.

Purser discusses the NBWA's legislative priorities, metamorphosis into a beer and beverage distribution group, and top concerns for the association's members. Plus, the Brewbound team breaks down recent news, including insights for connecting with Gen Z from Zoe's trip to the Stout Collective's BOPP Beer Design Conference, a look at IPA's dollar share across the country and the forthcoming non-alc Michelob Ultra Zero.

Living in an 8% ABV World

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 21:22:00 +0000

Several new high ABV offerings are on their way to convenience store doors in 2025. The Brewbound team discusses the latest slate of offerings from Molson Coors that trades on three of their established brands: Blue Moon Extra, Topo Chico Max and Simply Spiked Bold.

The team ponders the timeliness of new singles hitting convenience and the prospects for these.

Jess, Zoe and Justin also discuss the latest news, including JuneShine's non-alcoholic kombucha play, job openings at the Brewers Association and California Craft Brewers Association and why the numbers say your brewery will likely survive.

Plus, deep thoughts on greetings and F1.

Listen here or on your preferred podcast platform.

A Beloved Brewpub Says Farewell

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 18:15:02 +0000

Cambridge Brewing Company (CBC) founder Phil Bannatyne joins the Brewbound Podcast to discuss the recent announcement that the Massachusetts brewpub will shut its doors in December after 35 years in business. Bannatyne shared his thoughts on the brewpub segment, the team's next steps and how many CBC alumni are scattered across the industry.

Plus, the Brewbound team covers recent California craft beer news, including Firestone Walker's annual business plan, Anderson Valley being up for sale, and production shifts and job cuts at Modern Times.

When to Refresh, Rebrand or Stand Pat with CODO Design's Isaac Arthur

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 17:47:35 +0000

When should you refresh your packaging? Or do a total rebrand? Or should you just stand pat? CODO Design's Isaac Arthur explains the choose-your-own-adventure decision tree beverage-alcohol companies should consider when tweaking the look of their products or the feel of their brand. Arthur walks through the gut check breweries need to do on each of these decisions and what they should know going into the process.

Arthur also gets into whether there are some products that are too iconic to touch, how nostalgia may factor into redesigns and what CODO might do for a certain San Francisco brewery rising from the ashes once more.

Plus, the Brewbound team talks Labor Day and muted post-pandemic wholesaler beer purchasing in August.

A Beverage-Alcohol Legal Update with Nutter's Bev-Alc Team

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 16:31:39 +0000

What legal issues should be on brewers' radar? Nichole Shustack and Isabelle Cunningham from the bev-alcohol practice team at law firm Nutter, McClennen and Fish join the Brewbound Podcast to share what to watch out for this year and beyond.

The team discusses the impact of non-alcoholic brands crossing over into bev-alc, direct-to-consumer sales, potential regulations on adult non-alcoholic beverages and other state legal updates.

Plus, the Brewbound team reconvenes to break down the latest headlines, including Colorado's Left Hand Brewing's efforts to raise money for a brewery platform, another sale of San Francisco's Magnolia Brewing and BeatBox Beverages' big deal with Shaquille O'Neal.

Tilray's Latest Craft Haul

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 17:19:32 +0000

Tilray cemented its place as a top five U.S. craft brewery by volume last week with the acquisition of four brands from Molson Coors' Tenth & Blake division: Atwater, Hop Valley, Revolver and Terrapin.

Zoe, Jess and Brewbound weekend newsletter author (and GIF-wielding genius) Sean McNulty break down the deal. The crew also discusses Jess' and Zoe's recent trips to New Trail and Sierra Nevada, respectively, as ABP season gets underway, plus Cambridge Brewing's impending closure and the National Black Brewers Association's most recent equipment donations.

NIQ on Bev-Alc at Halftime 2024 and the Coming 4th Mega Category

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 16:33:49 +0000

Beverage-alcohol's growing "fourth category" of flavor-first offerings are quickly becoming a "mega category," NIQ VP of alcohol industry thought leadership Jon Berg shared on the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast.

Berg explains how the collective of ready-to-drink offerings such as flavored malt beverages, canned cocktails, hard seltzers and other flavor-forward offerings have shifted the fortunes of bev-alc for the year, while the best case scenario for beer, wine and spirits is likely a flat year. He also dishes on the tension between value and volume, slumping craft sales, channel outlooks and brand life cycles.

Plus, Zoe is back with a beer report from the Bahamas. She and Justin discuss their travel schedules, the decline in attendance for this year's Craft Brewers Conference and Monster's bev-alc struggles.

World of Beer Bankruptcy, Bud Light 1 Year After the Boycott

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 18:02:49 +0000

World of Beer has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, in an effort to reorganize. Brewbound managing editor Jess Infante shares details of the filing and what it means for craft breweries.

Jess and Brewbound editor Justin Kendall also review the latest earnings reports, including Anheuser-Busch InBev cycling the anniversary of the Bud Light boycott, how A-B is faring in the U.S. a year later, and the fallout being felt by one of its top competitors, Molson Coors, and one of its biggest supply chain partners, Ball Corporation.

Jess and Justin also reveal how little they know about soccer, and discuss car trips with toddlers and adjusting to a new puppy.

A Mid-Year Beer Report; Plus Earnings SZN Begins

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 19:47:55 +0000

How is beer doing at the halfway point of 2024? Brewbound reporter Zoe Licata shares highlights from not one, but two mid-year beer reports. Zoe breaks down the Brewers Association's mid-year craft report, as well as a total beer overview from the National Beer Wholesalers Association and Fintech halfway through 2024.

Plus, Zoe and Brewbound editor Justin Kendall discuss the latest earnings reports from Boston Beer and Tilray Brands, including nuggets on Twisted Tea and Truly's hold on Boston's portfolio and improvements in Shock Top's trends.

Justin also relays his experience on the Voodoo Ranger pirate ship and spotting Stone Brewing co-founder Greg Koch's graphic novel at San Diego Comic-Con.

Friday Beers and Its Ready-Made Audience

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 18:33:49 +0000

Almost Friday Media, the comedy meme account turned digital media empire that has long celebrated the vaunted opening of a beer at the closing of the workweek, had a drinker base long before it had a beer brand. The media network reaches more than 800 million accounts across more than 30 channels on seven different media platforms, and launched its eponymous light lager Friday Beers late last year.

Almost Friday co-founder and CEO Jack Barrett and Corestone Capital founder and CEO Will McDonough joined the Brewbound Podcast to discuss the beer, its fans and the strategy behind it.

Plus, the Brewbound team discusses global hop production and inventory, regulatory changes for THC-infused drinks in Iowa and a makeover for Cigar City's Jai Alai IPA.

Brewers Association CEO Bob Pease on His Decision to Retire in 2025

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 16:55:32 +0000

Long-time Brewers Association (BA) president and CEO Bob Pease will retire on June 30, 2025, after 32 years at the trade organization representing small and independent craft brewers, Pease and the BA announced last week.

Pease joins the Brewbound Podcast to detail how long he's been in talks to retire, why now is the right time and what advice he would give to his successor. He also discusses the legacy he's leaving behind, the most important moves of his tenure and whether there's a next chapter beyond the ski slopes.

Plus, the Brewbound team discusses Pease's tenure leading the BA, a potential successor and the results of the latest Harris Poll of beer drinkers.

A July 4 Darty Report, Plus TikTok Adds Bev-Alc Ads

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 19:55:19 +0000

Following a long July 4 holiday weekend, the Brewbound team shares how they celebrated Independence Day.

Jess provides a Jersey Shore report, including whether there was enough Surfside supply.

Zoe shares the results from her July 4 darty on how newer beverages such as Surfside, Sun Cruiser, The Beast Unleashed, and Happy Thursday performed with the under 30 crowd. She also notes the prevalence of High Noon in Boston's party districts.

Then the conversation turns to social media platform TikTok opening its platform to beverage-alcohol advertisements. Jess explains why now and what bev-alc companies should consider.

The team also discusses non-alcoholic beer maker Athletic Brewing's $50 million equity financing round and rumored valuation.

How to Make a Summer Shandy Work Year-Round

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 17:54:04 +0000

Molson Coors-owned Leinenkugel's is making its flagship Summer Shandy a year-round offering. Leinenkugel's president Tony Bugher and John Leinenkugel discuss why the move represents the company getting out of its own way, how big the brand is for its business and how they plan to support the brand in the colder months.

But first, ReserveBar CEO Derrick Correia offers thoughts on the post-Drizly state of e-commerce and how bev-alc companies can win in the digital sphere.

Allagash Tests the Hop Waters, Some Cannabis Users Say They're Drinking Less & Hard Kombucha's Comeback

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 22:44:00 +0000

The Brewbound team catches up on the latest news, including Allagash's first foray into non-alcoholic adult beverages with Hop Water. Justin, Jess and Zoe discuss why this seems on brand for the Portland, Maine-based craft brewery, and why it may be a better entry point than NA beer.

Jess then shares why some cannabis users say they are drinking less, with a lot of caveats.

Zoe shares her experience at the Boston Celtics victory parade and thoughts on C's guard Derrick White's duck boat adventures. Zoe also breaks down her feature on the state of hard kombucha.

The show wraps with a conversation on whether the spicy trend has fully taken hold in bev-alc.

Streamlining Brewery Operations: Insights from Kyle Kensrue of Ollie

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 18:18:45 +0000

In this episode of the Brewbound podcast, host Ray Latif sits down with Kyle Kensrue, Account Executive at Ollie. With extensive experience in the brewing industry, Kyle shares his journey from managing breweries in New York City to his current role at Ollie, a software platform designed to support brewers. He highlights how Ollie, built by brewers for brewers, helps alleviate administrative burdens, streamline processes, and provide crucial insights into cost management and reporting.

Kyle discusses the evolving brewing industry and the importance of being nimble, particularly in response to challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, rising costs, and competitive market pressures. He shares personal anecdotes about the necessity of pivoting to new packaging formats and the value of having robust, flexible software to manage these changes effectively.

Ray and Kyle also touch on the broader theme of transforming a passion for brewing into a sustainable business. Kyle emphasizes the critical role Ollie plays in helping breweries not just produce great beer, but also operate efficiently and profitably.

For brewers looking to optimize their operations and stay ahead in a dynamic industry, this conversation provides valuable insights and practical advice. To learn more about Ollie and connect with Kyle, visit getollie.com or email them at sales@getollie.com

All the Angles of a Potential Boston Beer Sale

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 19:00:48 +0000

Bernstein analyst Nadine Sarwat breaks down the pros and cons of a potential sale of Boston Beer Company. Sarwat also examines potential suitors, Wall Street's view of potential deals and why Boston Beer continues to be in conversations around M&A.

Plus, the Brewbound team discusses the latest news, including the Kelce brothers' investment in Garage Beer, Hulk Hogan's new lager and Athletic's acquisition of another Ballast Point brewery in San Diego.

Crafting Stability: Scott Labs' 90-Year Legacy in Brewing

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 12:00:00 +0000

In this Brewbound Podcast interview, Ray Latif sits down with Nate Armbrust, a key figure at Scott Labs, to discuss the company's long-standing support for brewers and its role in the evolving beverage industry. Nate provides a detailed history of Scott Labs, which began as a yeast laboratory in Petaluma, California, 90 years ago. Originally serving the wine industry, Scott Labs has since expanded its expertise to include a wide range of beverages, focusing on stability and quality.

Nate explains how Scott Labs assists brewers in navigating the challenges of producing alternative beverages such as non-alcoholic beer, RTD cocktails, and flavored malt beverages. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique stability requirements of these beverages, especially when incorporating ingredients like fruit juices that introduce fermentable sugars. Scott Labs offers solutions like Valkrin, a stabilization method that can sometimes replace tunnel pasteurization, addressing the needs of producers who face limitations in space and capital.

Nate also discusses how Scott Labs helps brewers meet consumer demands for clean label products while ensuring beverage stability. He highlights the company's comprehensive approach to evaluating and stabilizing beverages, utilizing various methods including preservatives, pasteurization, and their proprietary products.

Listeners interested in learning more about Scott Labs' services and products can easily connect through their website, ScottLab.com, where a contact form is available for inquiries.

Burial Beer's Doug Reiser on the Importance of Immersive Experiences

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 22:27:40 +0000

Burial Beer Company's Doug Reiser discusses the culmination of a three-year project to open a rooftop wine bar for the company's Visuals wine brand in Asheville, North Carolina.

For Burial, it's about creating "immersive experiences" at its venues, Reiser explains. He discusses reviving once-abandoned spaces, how the company got into beer and then moved into the wine space and how much overlap there is between the company's beer drinkers and wine consumers.

But first, Jess, Zoe and Justin also discuss the key pieces Anchor Brewing is going to need in its resurrection. They also discuss the effectiveness of Brooklyn Brewery's European ad campaign, and pour over Voodoo Ranger's scans trends, with some brands in decline and others still on the ascent.

Lager Talk with Jack's Abby, Von Ebert; Marketing & Making Connections with Julie Rhodes

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000

On a special bonus episode of the Brewbound Podcast, we talk a lot about lagers and marketing.

First, Jack Hendler and Joe Connolly discuss their book – Modern Lager Beer: Techniques, Processes and Recipes – and producers' growing interest in craft lagers. Hendler is one of the co-founders of Jack's Abby, a Massachusetts-based lager brewery, and Connelly is the brewery's sales director.

Then, Von Ebert Brewing's Sam Pecoraro dishes on the Portland, Oregon brewery's increased focus on lager, takeover of the former Ecliptic Brewing space and its five taproom locations.

The show wraps with an interview with Not Your Hobby Marketing Solutions' Julie Rhodes talking shop on marketing, including the importance of personal connections and native digital marketing campaigns.

Anchor Back From the Abyss; Monster Closes Another Texas Brewery; and Boston Beer Sale Rumors

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 18:38:08 +0000

Following a flood of news last week, the Brewbound team recaps the latest major headlines, starting with the billionaire founder of Chobani acquiring Anchor Brewing. Justin, Jess and Zoe share whether they foresaw this scenario playing out.

Following the Anchor talk, they dig into the rumors of a potential acquisition of Boston Beer by Suntory.

The news wraps with a conversation on Monster Brewing's shutdown of the Deep Ellum brewery and taproom in Texas.

The show also features a 3-pack of interviews with:

Monday Night Brewing co-founder and CEO Jeff Heck on operating multi-state taprooms;
Dan Imdieke and Jason Pratt, the new owners of Cicerone, on their future plans for the certification program;
And Rob Day on the importance of marketing, especially in a maturing craft beer market.

Craft Beer Production Data Christmas Arrives

Wed, 29 May 2024 20:00:42 +0000

The 2023 craft brewery production data is officially in. Justin, Zoe and weekend newsletter writer Sean McNutly dive into the high-level data points and sift through some of the surprises in the numbers.

They also discuss planned changes for the 2024 edition of the Great American Beer Festival and why they may be a positive for the festival experience. Then, they discuss Heineken ceasing production at the Lagunitas facility in Chicago, consolidating operations in Petaluma, California. Sean also provides a Central Park beer report that features a lot of White Claw.

The episode closes with an interview with Brewjeria co-founder Agustin Ruelas and Norwalk Brew House founder Ray Ricky Rivera on Los Farmworkers, the fifth iteration of a collaboration series that benefits nonprofits supporting migrant workers.

The Toll of Burnout and Craft's Barriers to Entry with Infinite Ingredient and Lifting Lucy

Wed, 22 May 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Infinite Ingredient founder and executive director Katie Muggli joins the Brewbound Podcast to discuss burnout in the brewing industry, how to recognize it, and what resources are available for both industry leaders and individuals. Recognizing burnout can help industry members physically and mentally, and can help strengthen business's bottom line, according to Muggli.

May is also Mental Health Awareness Month, so it's a perfect time for this discussion, which was recorded on the trade show floor last month during the Craft Brewers Conference in Las Vegas.

Then, Ashlie Randolph chats with Brewbound managing editor Jess Infante about Lifting Lucy, the company Randolph co-founded that helps provide resources to women and non-binary people of color in the industry. Lifting Lucy helps industry members form deeper connections in beer, including providing financial assistance to travel to, attend and speak at conferences and networking events.

Randolph is also the global vice president for Pink Boots Society, International and on the advisory board for the National Black Brewers Association (NB2A).

Later in the episode, Justin and Zoe review the latest headlines, including Gallo's strategic investment in Montucky Cold Snacks, and Boston Beer Company founder Jim Koch's comments on the company's need to repair its "embarrassing" reputation. Plus, the duo plays Another Round or Tabbing Out on resealable bev-alc packaging and candy-inspired beverages.

3 Tier Beverages' Donn Bichsel Jr. & Mary Mills; Plus, New Belgium's Kelly McKnight

Wed, 15 May 2024 19:25:41 +0000

Donn Bichsel Jr. and Mary Mills, leaders from beverage consultancy 3 Tier Beverages, share why data with the top 15 brewers removed can reveal true market opportunities and pitfalls, why brewers should also have a total-beverage alcohol perspective and which packages are trending.

Then, New Belgium Brewing lead research and development brewer Kelly McKnight explains the Voodoo Ranger maker's strategy for new products, why new IPAs flow under the Voodoo umbrella and much more.

Plus, Justin and Zoe review the latest headlines, including people moves at Sierra Nevada, BrewDog and Great Lakes. They also discuss how Wisconsin Brewing is carving a niche within the non-alcoholic beer space with a Harley-Davidson branded beer.

A State of Craft Update with Bart Watson and Katie Marisic of the Brewers Association

Wed, 08 May 2024 20:54:20 +0000

Brewers Association (BA) chief economist and VP of strategy Bart Watson provides insights into the state of the craft brewing industry, while senior director of federal affairs Katie Marisic gives an overview of the trade group's government affairs work on the latest edition of the Brewbound Podcast.

The conversations were recorded on the BrewExpo floor of the Craft Brewers Conference in Las Vegas.

But first, Justin and Zoe discuss craft's bumpy April and rough overall shipment numbers in March.

And Justin plays Another Round or Tabbing Out with the Voodoo Ranger and Tombstone collaboration IPizzaA IPA.

Listen here or on your podcast platform of choice.

Brewbound Podcast On Location - CBC Conversations with Breeze Galindo and Pam Brulotte

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 21:35:01 +0000

The first round of interviews from the Brewbound Podcast On Location at the Craft Brewers Conference (CBC) in Las Vegas are here.

Breeze Galindo, the director of operations on the Michael J Jackson Foundation for Brewing and Distilling, discusses the foundation's work, evolution and scholarship awards for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color professionals in the bev-alc industry. Galindo also dishes on her brewery in-planning, MiLuna Brewing Company, which she will open in New York.

Then, Icicle Brewing owner Pam Brulotte chats about her journey into the brewing industry, being married to a hop farmer and starting a brewery in Leavenworth, Washington. She also discusses her work with the Brewers Association (BA), including co-chairing the trade group's diversity, equity and inclusion committee.

Plus, Jess, Justin and Zoe recap Day 2 of CBC, including BA chief economist and VP of strategy Bart Watson's state of the industry speech.

North Coast Brewing's Jennifer Owen; Plus, Tom McCormick and HopXL's Eric Duchin

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 14:00:00 +0000

In the last round of interviews from the Brewbound Podcast On Location at the California Craft Beer Summit, North Coast Brewing CEO Jennifer Owen discusses taking Acme California Lager statewide, what it means for the Fort Bragg, California-based brewery to be a certified B Corporation and the company's charitable work.

Plus, Tom McCormick, the former executive director of the California Craft Brewers Association, gives his perspective on the first CA Beer Summit he's attended as a civilian. And HopXL's Eric Duchin explains how his company is attempting to disrupt the hop marketplace.

Bump Williams Consulting on Q1 Beer Trends, What to Watch This Summer

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 18:59:33 +0000

Bump Williams Consulting's Dave Williams and Brian "BK" Krueger explore Q1 beer category trends, the stickiness of 2023's shifts caused by the Bud Light fiasco, the creep up of pricing, regional cider growth and the dampening of Dry January but continued growth of non-alc beer.

They also share what they're watching for the remainder of the year.

Plus, the Brewbound team reports from the floor of the Craft Brewers Conference in Las Vegas and recap the first day of the largest meeting of craft brewers. Jess, Justin and Zoe also recap the new strategic alliance between Black-owned breweries Full Circle and Crowns and Hops.

The Brewers Association's Dr. J on Thrive, CBC and Vegas Musts

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 18:16:57 +0000

Brewers Association (BA) director of social impact Dr. J Jackson-Beckham joins this week's Brewbound Podcast to preview the THRIVE pre-conference workshop, which takes place Sunday, April 21, ahead of this year's Craft Brewers Conference (CBC). Dr. J discusses the increased focus on wellness during this year's conference and how those elements are threaded throughout CBC.

Dr. J also shares her CBC picks, as well as the Las Vegas destinations on her list beyond the conference. She addresses how her new role will factor into keeping the trade group accountable.

Jess and Justin also break down the latest news from the BA, including a not-so-great production number, the shrinking gap between brewery openings and closings and the early read on the 2023 top 50 BA-defined craft breweries.

Hear From Green Cheek, Arryved and East Brother

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000

On a special bonus episode of the Brewbound Podcast, we bring you a 3-pack of interviews from the California Craft Beer Summit in Sacramento in March.

First, Green Cheek co-founder and CEO Brian Rauso discusses what having the "cool factor" means, doing what's best for business even if it means taking a financial hit, and expanding into the former Bagby Beer space in San Diego.

Then, Arryved director of partnerships and community Aaron Gore gives a view of the on-premise channel from the perspective of the point-of-sale company.

The episode wraps up with a conversation with East Brother Brewing co-founder Rob Lightner on focusing on core styles and forging strong community partnerships.

Topa Topa, Match Point and That's Delicious Financials on What's Working for Craft

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 19:14:16 +0000

This week's Brewbound Podcast features a 3-pack of conversations from the California Craft Beer Summit.

Topa Topa founder and CEO Jack Dyer discusses what's working for the fast-growing, Ventura-based craft brewery. Then, Match Point Brewing co-founder Simon Chen shares the Albany-based brewery's path to opening a taproom and also connecting with consumers in his hometown.

Finally, That's Delicious Financials founder Drew Kearns explains why he's optimistic about the craft brewing industry, as well as the most difficult conversations he's hearing on the financial side of the business.

The Brewbound team also reviews the latest headlines, including positive beer category trends and Tilray Brands' Q3 earnings report.

On Another Round or Tabbing Out, Jess and Justin answer whether they'd buy a $1,300 fridge for their cross-category chilling needs. Then Zoe shares why it might be lemon's time, if it ever isn't.

BevPort Seeks to Open Distribution Access for Craft Brewers

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 18:16:44 +0000

BevPort, a self-described three-tier compliant digital distribution portal, launched in Florida earlier this year. Co-founder Phil Guana joins the Brewbound Podcast to explain how BevPort works, its focus on helping "the little guy" gain market access in the Sunshine State and the partnerships the startup has in the market.

Guana also shares future expansion states for BevPort.

But first, the Brewbound team reviews the latest news, including a sibling company of Bevana Partners filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, the on-premise opportunities with 10,000 tap handles for the taking, increased efficiency at retail and The Bruery's plans for an Idaho outpost.

This week's Another Round or Tabbing Out focuses on the future of sour houses following the announcement that Vermont's Hermit Thrush is ceasing operations.

Anderson Valley's Kevin McGee on Keeping a Legacy Brand Fresh; Full Circle's Arthur Moye on Building a House of Brands

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 20:19:48 +0000

This week's Brewbound Podcast features two on location interviews from the California Craft Beer Summit in Sacramento. Anderson Valley Brewing president and CEO Kevin McGee shares how he's keeping the legacy craft brand relevant, and why he's entangled in a legal battle with the nation's largest beer wholesaler with potential wider implications for California craft brewers.

Then, Full Circle owner Arthur Moye explores plans for the Speakeasy brand, which his company acquired a year ago, and how he's executing a house-of-brands strategy with those craft brands and Sonoma Cider.

Plus, the Brewbound team discusses Sazerac's planned acquisition of ready-to-drink cocktail maker BuzzBallz, Tilray's ambitious innovation strategy and Sheehan's continued distributor sell off.

The show also features a game of Another Round or Tabbing on whether mango is the flavor of 2024.

Russian River's Natalie Cilurzo on Pliny The Younger's 20th Anniversary; Calicraft on Going Beyond Beer

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 16:50:59 +0000

Russian River co-owner Natalie Cilurzo joins the Brewbound Podcast On Location at the California Craft Beer Summit to discuss the 20th anniversary release of Pliny the Younger triple IPA, with festivities starting this weekend. Cilurzo discusses creating an experience that brings back repeat customers, its economic impact and Pliny babies. She also shares the strategy behind the Pliny for President quarterly releases, the growth of lager in the Russian River portfolio and much more.

Calicraft founder and CEO Blaine Landberg and marketing director and brewmaster Thomas Vo share how the brewery is expanding beyond beer with the Bloom line of fruit-forward offerings. They also explore their own-premise expansion strategy and share a wild pre-pandemic story.

Plus, the Brewbound team breaks down the latest news, including layoffs at Cigar City, a new CMO at New Belgium and Deschutes' national plans for non-alcoholic beer. The team also plays Another Round or Tabbing Out on a pricey Voodoo Ranger and Tombstone collab and Hard MTN Dew's attempts to be abducted by aliens.

How Breweries Can Navigate Leasing Issues

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 22:02:11 +0000

Landlord issues have been a frequent reason cited among recent brewery closures. What do you need to look out for in a lease? When should you start renewal discussions? How do you navigate improvements? BPE Law Group associate attorney Melanie De Marco gives a leasing 101 course.

Plus, Brewbound editor Justin Kendall and reporter Zoe Licata break down the latest headlines, including Sapporo-Stone's focus on beer and discontinuation of its hard seltzer and canned cocktail brands, and Constellation Brands' Mexican import performance. The duo also plays Another Round or Tabbing Out on Constellation's new product slate of Corona Sunbrew and new-to-world flavored malt beverages The Drop and Shyft.

Brewbound Podcast: A California Craft Beer Check In

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 20:51:12 +0000

California Craft Brewers Association (CCBA) board of directors member Alicia Barr (5050 Brewing Co.) and former director Peter Hoey (Urban Roots Brewery) join the Brewbound Podcast to discuss the state of craft beer in California, the country's largest craft market, in advance of the CCBA's annual California Craft Beer Summit next week in Sacramento.

The Brewbound team discusses recent headlines, including Pontoon Brewing's split from Bevana as part of its Chapter 11 filing, Karben4's bankruptcy filing and JuneShine's proposed acquisition of Flying Embers. Plus, it's Women's History Month and Zoe and Jess have thoughts.

Teamsters and A-B's Tentative Deal, Boston Beer's CEO Swap, Hard MTN Dew Going National, Blue Cloud Pivoting

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 22:53:00 +0000

With a flood of news over the last couple of days, the Brewbound team breaks down the latest stories, including the Teamsters and Anheuser-Busch InBev reaching a tentative agreement on a new five-year contract, Boston Beer Company's CEO succession plan, and PepsiCo's Blue Cloud Distribution pivoting from wholesaler to brand licensor.

Diving into Early Year Bev-Alc Data Trends with 3 Tier Beverages

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 17:42:33 +0000

3 Tier Beverages' Mary Mills and Stephanie Roatis break down the early year data, including positive cider trends in convenience, non-alc trends, hard seltzer rationalization and much more. They also get into the growing trend of private label hard seltzer and whether anyone can break through the hard coffee curse.

Plus, the Brewbound team discusses the potential strike at Anheuser-Busch InBev's U.S. breweries, and they play Another Round or Tabbing Out on the chances of Michelob Ultra challenger brands staking a claim of the better-for-you beer market.

Firestone Walker Details Its House of Brands Strategy

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 20:48:21 +0000

Firestone Walker CMO Dustin Hinz and brand director Hannah Barnett explore the marketing approach to the Paso Robles, California-based craft brewery's biggest brand, 805, as well as its portfolio of other brands, including Cali Squeeze, Mind Haze and the F Brand.

Hinz and Barnett break down Firestone Walker's Authenticos partnership program and how the black-and-white film work the brand does with its ambassadors plays with wholesalers.

Plus, the Brewbound team reviews the latest news, including Iowa's Big Grove Brewery taking a majority stake in non-alcoholic, THC-infused sparkling water brand Climbing Kites and the union strike at Molson Coors' Fort Worth facility. The team also plays Another Round or Tabbing Out on the Brewers Association's decision to pause Homebrew Con and shift activities to the Great American Beer Festival.

MikMak's Rachel Tipograph on the Post-Drizly Bev-Alc E-Commerce Landscape

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 21:20:40 +0000

MikMak founder and CEO Rachel Tipograph joins the Brewbound Podcast to analyze what's next for beverage-alcohol e-commerce in a post-Drizly world.

MikMak is a software analytics company that helps alcohol companies funnel their business to retailers in compliance with regulations. Tipograph shared that bev-alc companies found out about Uber shutting down Drizly at the same time as the general public.

In the aftermath, Tipograph believes Uber Eats, Instacart and ReserveBar will absorb Drizly's market share. As for alcohol companies, many have quickly transitioned away from the platform, she added.

In addition to this conversation, the Brewbound team talks about the latest headlines, including lawsuits against Boston Beer over its employee non-compete clause, independent craft brewers' growth in the convenience channel, and Two Robbers' shift from hard seltzer to spirits-based canned cocktails. The team also plays Another Round or Tabbing Out on 1990s hip-hop nostalgia permeating RTDs.

How a Las Vegas Wholesaler is Prepping for the Super Bowl

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 21:58:56 +0000

Breakthru Beverage Nevada beer division VP Deacon Nauslar joins this week's Brewbound Podcast to share how the distributor is preparing for Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas.

Nauslar dishes on when preparations began, how much of a bump the distributor is expecting, how the event will compare to the Formula 1 race earlier this year, and how the biggest football game of the year measures up to a normal week servicing Sin City.

The Brewbound team also breaks down the early week headlines, including a potential end to the Sheehan family lawsuit and a sale of the business, two former Boston Beer employees' lawsuits against the company over non-competes and why soda may be a threat to beer shelf space.

The team also plays Another Round or Tabbing Out on the latest big beer Super Bowl ads – including a mea culpa to the Chill train. And Justin does an impromptu round with a tasting of Truly Hot Wing Sauce hard seltzer.

An Exit Interview with Naomi Neville of Allagash Brewing

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 20:09:35 +0000

Naomi Neville is departing Allagash Brewing after 14 years of leading and building its sales team. She has helped turn the Portland, Maine-headquartered craft brewery into a regional powerhouse and the Allagash White brand into a flagship with relevance across the country.

Neville shares her experience building the Allagash brand, reflects on the last decade-plus of craft and dishes on where she sees the segment going and what's next for her.

The Brewbound team also discusses the latest news, including Anheuser-Busch's taproom closures and craft strategy, the growing issues between breweries and landlords, and beer's relevancy problem. Jess, Zoe and Justin also play Another Round or Tabbing Out on the latest Super Bowl ad fare from A-B.

Road Reports, Private Equity Deals and More Leadership Changes

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 17:59:54 +0000

The Brewbound team reconvenes after a week of West Coast travels to discuss the latest bev-alc industry news.

Zoe reports back on the themes coming out of this year's CiderCon in icy Portland, Oregon, and then she and Jess share takeaways from the Beer Industry Summit in San Diego resort city Coronado.

Justin joins the duo to break down the big news of the last week, including a craft-on-craft deal in New England, a private equity firm selling part of its stake in Mikkeller, a CEO change at Sapporo-Stone Brewing, another Heineken exec joining Lagunitas' c-suite and an update on the bidding for Anchor, including a Fritz Maytag sighting.

Plus, the team plays Another Round or Tabbing Out on the return of the Coors Light train for the Super Bowl and a comparison of ready-to-drink offerings to craft beer.

Ding Dong, Drizly is Done; Plus, Scanning the Craft Scans

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 20:48:19 +0000

Drizly will be no more as of March. The week started with Uber announcing plans to shut down the e-commerce alcohol delivery platform. Brewbound editor Justin Kendall and weekend newsletter writer Sean McNulty discuss the decision and why it's another blow for brewers. (Co-hosts Jess Infante and Zoe Licata are on the road this week.)

Plus, the duo discuss full-year 2023 craft beer scan data, the narrative (or lack thereof) for craft heading into 2024, and why the early read isn't great.

Other topics include New Jersey finally giving the state's craft breweries a break, Tilray wilding out with new products and Lawson's trying to get the low-ABV Beach Party started.

AFicioNAdo Founder Meagen Anderson on Creating the Non-Alc Training and Certification Program

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 19:56:16 +0000

Meagen Anderson, the founder and CEO of AFicioNAdo (AFNA), joins the Brewbound Podcast to discuss the formation of the training and certification program for professionals in the adult non-alcoholic beverage space.

Anderson shares her own journey to NA, how retailers are strategizing around the products and what it means for future generations.

The Brewbound team also looks back at the big headlines of the last couple of weeks, including Asahi's planned acquisitions of Octopi Brewing, the latest on the Tree House shareholder lawsuit, Flying Fish Brewing's bankruptcy filing and leadership changes at Allagash. The team also plays Another Round or Tabbing Out.

What Even Happened in 2023?

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 18:00:22 +0000

Fellow beer industry journalists Kate Bernot and Christopher Shepard join the Brewbound Podcast to recall the bev-alc/non-alc crossover brand madness of 2023, craft beer's stormy seas and a potentially grim outlook for draft beer sales.

The conversation isn't all doom and gloom, as the crew discusses positive developments in taproom hospitality and non-alcoholic beer options.

2023 Award Winners – Maui Brewing's Garrett Marrero and the National Black Brewers Association's Kevin Asato

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week's Brewbound Podcast features interviews with two of our 2023 Brewbound Award Winners.

Brewbound's 2023 Person of the Year, Maui Brewing co-founder Garrett Marrero, discusses his work to help the people of Maui during the wildfires that killed at least 100 people and destroyed Lahaina.

Then, Kevin Asato, executive director of the National Black Brewers Association (NB2A), whose founding members were named Brewbound's 2023 Beer Champions of the Year, shares experiences from the new organization's first year.

AriZona Emerges as a Twisted Tea Challenger

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 19:12:41 +0000

AriZona Hard Tea VP of sales Lou Fabiano joins the Brewbound Podcast to discuss the opportunity for the hard tea challenger brand as it attempts to cut into Boston Beer Company's 90% stranglehold on the market with Twisted Tea.

Fabiano shares how AriZona has grown to 2.5 million cases this year and why he believes the brand could eventually hold 20-25% share of the segment in the future.

The Brewbound team also breaks down the latest news, including the Brewers Association's year-end recap and NIQ's latest consumer insights. Plus, the trio plays Another Round or Tabbing Out with a focus on CPG's encroachment on bev-alc.

2023 Award Winners – Athletic Brewing, Lawson's & BeatBox

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 03:43:10 +0000

This week's Brewbound Podcast features interviews with some of Brewbound's 2023 award winners. Hear from;

2023 Large Brewery of the Year, Athletic Brewing, with founders Bill Shufelt and John Walker;
2023 Craft Brewery of the Year, Lawson's Finest Liquids, with founder Sean Lawson and CEO Adeline Druart;
And 2023 Beyond Beer Company of the Year, BeatBox Beverages, with co-founder and COO Aimy Steadman.

Also, the Brewbound team gives a few quick takeaways from last week's Brewbound Live business conference, recaps the Brewers Association's Year in Beer report, and plays Another Round or Tabbing Out on non-alc and alc convergence and a Lobster Pie beer.

It's Brewbound Live Week!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 14:30:00 +0000

The Brewbound team encourages you to skip this episode of the Brewbound Podcast and go to Brewbound.com and watch the 2023 Brewbound Live business conference. If you're a fan of this podcast, you won't want to miss Brewbound Live.

Garage Beer's Andy Sauer and Corey Smale on Finding the Craft Lager Brand's Voice

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 02:19:30 +0000

Garage Beer's new owner, Andy Sauer, and VP of marketing, Corey Smale, join the Brewbound team to discuss taking over the craft lager brand following a deal with Kentucky's Braxton Brewing earlier this year.

Sauer and Smale share how they're building the brand, expanding to new markets, speaking to consumers and creating and nurturing the brand's voice.

The Brewbound team also breaks down the latest legal news in the beer space, including a lawsuit among Tree House owners and the dismissal of a shareholder lawsuit against Boston Beer amid the slowdown of Truly Hard Seltzer. The team also play Another Round or Tabbing Out on the growing number of craft doomsday stories.

All the News Before Thanksgiving/Drinksgiving/Blackout Wednesday

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 17:30:27 +0000

More signs of the times keep coming in the beer industry, with consolidations, expansions, production shifts and IP sales. Jess, Zoe and Justin reconvene to discuss the latest industry shakeups at Made by the Water, Young Lion, Other Half, Riverwalk, Ipswich and Anchor.

Plus, the team shares whether they'll be participating in Drinksgiving/Blackout Wednesday and looks at the latest Circana convenience store scans, with New Belgium Voodoo Ranger Imperial IPA passing Molson Coors' Blue Moon Belgian White.

The show wraps with a game of Another Round or Tabbing Out on the influx of new non-alcoholic beer brands from regional breweries and large-scale marketing activations in the wake of Heineken's big F1 spend at the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Short's Makes Room at the Inn

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 16:43:16 +0000

Short's Brewing CEO Scott Newman-Bale joins the Brewbound Podcast to discuss the Bellaire Inn, the brewery's solution to the workforce housing crunch in its northern Michigan home. Thanks to the inn, Short's was able to remain fully staffed through its busy summer season.

Plus, Zoe and Jess break down the week's news, including Boston Beer's new vodka-based hard tea, Great Frontier Holdings' acquisition of Ecliptic Brewing and New Belgium's new CEO.

The Never-Ending Supply Chain Saga

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 17:44:36 +0000

In turbulent times, the supply chain rollercoaster delivers more chills than thrills. Fear not – Agrowgate partners Tim Near and David van Wees joined Justin on the Brewbound Podcast this week to break down everything craft beverage producers need to know.

Plus, Zoe and Jess detail the week's news, including quarterly earnings reports from Molson Coors and Anheuser-Busch InBev, Smuttynose's parent company's acquisition of Five Boroughs and Great Divide and Dry Dock Brewing's new strategic partnership.

Loverboy Spills the Tea on New NA Beverage

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 18:46:19 +0000

Hard tea and spritzer brand Loverboy is getting into the non-alcoholic space with a pair of 6-packs: lemon iced tea and white tea peach. Loverboy SVP of sales Derek Hahm and SVP of commercial strategy Todd Anderson discussed the launch of the brand, and how it will be incorporated into the Bravo reality series.

Hahm and Anderson also discuss Loverboy's goals in the hard tea category, the advantage of working with a Bravolebrity and Loverboy's strategy of working with beer wholesalers.

Bernstein Analysts on Ozempic's Effect on Bev-Alc Consumption

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 20:20:05 +0000

Bernstein Autonomous analysts Nadine Sarwat and Trevor Stirling share what they know so far about Ozempic, Wegovy and other diet/diabetes drugs' effect on alcoholic beverage consumption.

Sarwat and Stirling break down why these drugs have entered popular culture conversations, what users are saying about their cravings, comparisons to past diet trends and much more.

Also, Jess, Zoe and Justin discuss the latest news, including promotions at Rhinegeist, the failed union effort at Creature Comforts and non-alcoholic beer reaching its limit at retail.

A Field Report for the NBWA Annual Convention in Las Vegas

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 22:47:07 +0000

The Brewbound team reconvenes and debriefs following the National Beer Wholesalers Association's Annual Convention. Zoe and Justin give a field report on the convention, including the issues at the forefront of wholesalers' minds, the products sampled on the floor and the vibe at the Alliance for Women in Beer and BREW Making Moves event.

It's National Cider Month and the team at Seattle-based Schilling Hard Cider is "excidered."

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 22:21:50 +0000

Co-founder and CEO Colin Schilling, CCO Eric Phillips and EVP of marketing Rachel Thomas join the Brewbound team to discuss the cidery's participation in National Cider Month, as well as its debut at the Great American Beer Festival and a retail activation with Whole Foods.

Plus, Zoe, Justin and Jess break down recent headlines – including Molson Coors' Happy Thursday hard refresher, the Beer Institute's annual meeting and Duvel USA's 2024 innovation slate – and sample hop-infused chocolate.

Giving a Legacy Brand a Second Life

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 21:11:37 +0000

Eagle Park Brewing co-founder Max Borgardt discusses acquiring and reviving legacy brand Milwaukee Brewing Company (MKE).

The Wisconsin craft brewery acquired MKE's brands and recipes a year ago. Borgardt gives an update on the integration of the two brands and plans for the future.

Plus, Jess, Zoe and Justin break down the latest news, including draft challenges, inflation outpacing at-the-brewery sales and Tilray closing its deal for eight craft beverage brands from Anheuser-Busch.

A Field Report From the Great American Beer Festival

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 19:31:20 +0000

Fresh back from Denver, Justin and Zoe recap their experiences at the Great American Beer Festival. Jess quizzes them on the beers, the booths and the vibe of the fest.

Plus, stick around for a Brew Talks replay of our conversation on the health of national draft beer, featuring Dogfish Head co-founder Sam Calagione, Buffalo Wild Wings director of beverage strategy and innovation Jason Murphy, and Tamarron Consulting co-founder and president Lori Scheiffler.

Brooklyn Brewery and Hoplark Leaders Discuss Deal

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 21:19:57 +0000

Leaders from Brooklyn Brewery and Hoplark share the why behind their recent partnership. Hoplark founder Dean Eberhardt, CEO Betsy Frost and Brooklyn Brewery CEO Eric Ottaway also share their perspectives on the trajectory of NA beverages.

Plus, Jess returns after three months! Zoe and Justin bring Jess up-to-speed during a game of Another Round or Tabbing Out, covering some of the big news of the last quarter, including Tilray's big craft deal, Jim Koch's shade for hard tea competitors, Sapporo's decision to close Anchor and more.

Diving into Headlines with Deals, Deal Seekers, A Closing & Candy Corn Hard Cider

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 15:46:59 +0000

September has brought not only a heatwave to the Northeast, but a flood of beer industry news.

On this week's Brewbound Podcast, Justin and Zoe dive into some of the latest headlines, including several business deals, such as Brooklyn Brewery's minority investment in Hoplark and Green Man and Appalachian Mountain Brewing's new joint venture.

The duo also discuss the closing of Reverend Nat's Hard Cider, the search for new equity partners at Weathered Souls and Lost Nation and the changing of the guard that's happening in beer.

Plus, Justin and Zoe play Another Round or Tabbing Out on candy corn hard cider and share their experiences sampling Dunkin' Spiked.

Making A Dunkin' Spiked Run with Mass. Bay Brewing's Leadership Team

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 17:46:39 +0000

Mass. Bay Brewing is hitting the reset button on its partnership with Dunkin' for beverage-alcohol products in Year Six.

Mass. Bay co-founder and CEO Dan Kenary, CMO Val Toothman and chief growth and ventures officer Nathaniel Davis share why they moved from beer centric releases to hard coffees and hard teas in 2023, the opportunity they see with flavored malt beverages and expansion plans for the brand.

Plus, Justin and Zoe discuss the latest news, including more leadership shakeups at craft breweries, Russian River's new canned brands and play Another Round or Tabbing Out on hysteria over supposed two-beer-per-week limits.

What's Next for New England IPAs

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 20:46:44 +0000

As Brewbound's next Brew Talks event in Denver approaches, this week we replay a Brew Talks Boston conversation exploring what's next for hazy IPAs.

Vitamin Sea Brewing founder Dino Funari, Wormtown Brewery president and general manager Kimberly Golinski, Mighty Squirrel Brewing co-founder Naveen Pawar and Samuel Adams taproom head brewer Megan Parisi share where they believe the style is going, how New England craft breweries are approaching hazies and what maturity means in the market where it originated.

Plus, Justin and Zoe recap Firestone Walker's annual business planning meeting. They also play a game of Another Round or Tabbing Out, discussing White Claw's entry into non-alcoholic seltzer.

A Three Tier Reality Check

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 21:11:20 +0000

This week's Brewbound Podcast features a replay of the Brew Talks Boston three-tier reality check conversation with Dogfish Head's Sam Calagione, Total Wine & More's Andrea Starr, Burke Distributing's Kristen Burke and Bump Williams Consulting's Dave Williams.

They discuss the state of the market, their current priorities, their approach to new brands and suppliers, and much more.

Plus, Zoe and Justin review the latest news, including Sierra Nevada's 2024 strategy, as well as NBWA chief economist Lester Jones' check-in on the state of the U.S. beer industry.

Zoe and Justin also play Another Round or Tabbing Out, including the encroachment of CPG brands such as Eggo and KFC into bev-alc.

Four Corners Co-Founder on Independence From a Big Brewer

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 19:17:45 +0000

Four Corners Brewing co-founder George Esquivel shares why he and his partners decided to buy back the Dallas-based craft brewery from Constellation Brands.

Esquivel explains why independence from the brewing giant will lead to more freedom and an ability to move more swiftly, how he's viewing the brewery's future prospects and much more.

Plus, Zoe and Justin review the latest news, including the Brewers Association's midyear survey results, Gallup's poll on U.S. consumers' consumption habits and the continuing changing of the guard in craft beer.

The two also play a game of Another Round or Tabbing Out, looking at White Claw's connection with Generation Z consumers, Athletic Brewing's beer now being used as a chaser and beer holidays.

Black is Beautiful Vol. 2, plus Tilray's Blockbuster Craft Deal

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 17:08:15 +0000

Weathered Souls co-founder Marcus Baskerville discusses Black is Beautiful Vol. 2 and how the cause beer collaboration has evolved.

Plus, Zoe and Justin break down Monday's blockbuster news that Tilray Brands will acquire eight craft brands from Anheuser-Busch InBev in a $85 million cash deal. The deal includes Shock Top, Breckenridge, 10 Barrel, Redhook, Widmer Brothers, and Blue Point, among others.

Zoe and Justin also play Another Round or Tabbing Out on Harpoon's latest Dunkin' Spiked release.

How to Reshape a Portfolio with Larry Horwitz

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 18:27:01 +0000

Crooked Hammock director of brewing operations Larry Horwitz shares his vision for portfolio reinvention and why he is the "light lager whisperer." Horwitz also offers insights into brand creation and consumer trends.

Plus, Justin and Zoe review the latest earnings for Boston Beer and Molson Coors, discuss leadership changes in the industry, and play Another Round or Tabbing Out with greywater beer and aliens.

DISCUS CEO on the Opportunities for and Opposition to Spirits' Cold Box Expansion

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 15:32:33 +0000

Distilled Spirits Council of the U.S. president and CEO Chris Swonger joins to break down the opportunities canned cocktails are creating for beverage-alcohol companies. Swonger also pushes back against the beer industry's stance against expanded market access and lower excise taxes for these products.

Also, Justin and Zoe recount the latest Anchor Brewing news, including brewery workers' bid to buy the company and the response from Sapporo's spokesperson.

Zoe recaps July 4 data in both the on-premise and off-premise channels. Finally, Justin and Zoe close out the show with a game of Another Round or Tabbing Out on Walmart's unique UPC mandate for seasonals and variety packs, and an e-commerce platform's marketing target of tallboys.

Farewell to Anchor (For Now)

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 21:47:45 +0000

A week after Sapporo announced plans to shut down historic Anchor Brewing and liquidate the business to pay off creditors, the Brewbound team and Vine Pair reporter Dave Infante break down the story so far. The trio discuss the effect on the brewery's union workforce and what's next for the San Francisco institution, including how likely it is to be saved as a turnkey operation.

Plus, Justin and Zoe chat with Paradox Brewery's Devon Hamilton and Katie Eherton about the 10-year-old craft brewery's brand refresh and reinvention as packaged distribution becomes increasingly competitive for small brewers.

Finally, Justin and Zoe play a game of Another Round or Tabbing Out on beer slushies.

Shipping Up to Boston

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 19:30:46 +0000

With Brew Talks just a day away, the Brewbound team previews the Boston event and shares why they're excited.

Justin then quizzes Zoe on her wants in a taproom experience after reviewing a listicle on the best breweries in Massachusetts.

The team also salutes Chicago's Funkytown Brewery for winning the Samuel Adams Brewing the American Dream Brewing & Business Experienceship.

The show wraps with a game of Another Round or Tabbing Out on Truly Hard Seltzer's zero gravity sweepstakes.

Who is the Craft Beer Drinker in 2023?

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 21:39:19 +0000

The Brewbound team gives a quick overview of the Brewers Association and Harris Poll's latest craft beer consumer survey and plucks out a few key takeaways. Plus, Justin and Zoe dish on a Lagunitas defection to Firestone Walker, decry Friday news dumps, and play Another Round or Tabbing Out on Bud Light's latest media blitz.

A Collab Beer to Rebuild Ukraine

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 22:52:17 +0000

Wisconsin Brewing's Paul Verdu and Move Ukraine's Ken Shearer join the Brewbound Podcast to discuss the Move Ukraine collaboration beer project aimed at helping rebuild Ukraine.

Verdu and Shearer are seeking brewers to join the effort to brew a pilsner with sunflower seeds – the sunflower is the national flower of Ukraine. The duo share how the collaboration beer came to fruition, and why its mission is so personal to Verdu.

Plus, the Brewbound team discusses the latest news stories – including a July 4 preview from CGA and Monster's entry into hard tea – and whether Tucson, Arizona is a desirable retirement destination in Another Round or Tabbing Out.

Welcome to Seltzerland

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 20:31:51 +0000

What's it like to attend a hard seltzer festival in 2023? Brewbound reporter Zoe Licata shares her first-person experience at Seltzerland in Boston.

Plus, BevNet spirits editor Ferron Salniker joins the podcast for the first time, detailing everything that went down at the Distilled Spirits Council of the United State's annual meeting.

Zoe and Brewbound editor Justin Kendall also run through the latest headlines, including more craft brewery CEO changes, this time at New Belgium and Lawson's Finest. Justin wildly speculates what Sierra Nevada founder Ken Grossman should do now that another craft brewery exec hits free agency.

And the team plays Another Round or Tabbing Out on AriZona entering the hard tea war of 2023 against Twisted Tea.

A Legend Returns, a Cannabis Company Buys a Craft Brewery and Distributors Dish on Bud Light

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 18:46:37 +0000

The Brewbound team breaks down the latest headlines, including Ken Grossman's return to Sierra Nevada as interim CEO, Bayou City Hemp's acquisition of 8th Wonder in Houston, and Wall Street analysts' survey of distributors that paint a bleak picture for Bud Light.

Plus, Justin and Zoe play Another Round or Tabbing Out on pickle hard seltzer.

Funky Buddha's Ryan Sentz on Buying Back the Florida Craft Brewery

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 15:33:40 +0000

Funky Buddha Brewery co-founder Ryan Sentz discusses what it's like to buy back the business he and his brother KC sold to Constellation Brands in 2017.

Buying back the brewery has been a several-years-in-the-making process, Sentz shares. As Funky Buddha turns 10 years old, he also explores his vision for the company moving forward, the possibility of adding a distillery and why an independent seal won't be adorning the company's packaging any time soon.

Craft Beer Data Christmas is Here, Plus More Craft-on-Craft Deals

Wed, 31 May 2023 17:27:13 +0000

The Brewbound team, along with Brewbound Weekend Insider newsletter writer Sean McNulty, reviews the Brewers Association's annual craft beer volume data. The team also discusses the latest craft brewery deals, including Funky Buddha and Appalachian Mountain Brewery returning to independent brewery status, and FX Matt buying the Flying Dog Brewery brand.

Zoe shares how the latest hard seltzers and canned cocktails were received over Memorial Day weekend. The gang also says farewell to Jess, as she goes on maternity leave (and promises to come back).

Bronya Shillo on Selling Fishers Island Lemonade to Spirit of Gallo

Wed, 24 May 2023 16:07:20 +0000

Fishers Island Lemonade founder Bronya Shillo shares why she sold the nearly decade-old brand to Spirit of Gallo, the spirits division of E. & J. Gallo.

The show turns into an unofficial M&A episode as the Brewbound team discusses FX Matt's planned acquisition of Flying Dog Brewery, and the founders of Appalachian Mountain Brewery buying back the North Carolina craft brewery from Anheuser-Busch InBev.

Justin, Jess and Zoe also break down the latest headlines, including Massachusetts revoking Gopuff's liquor license for allegedly selling and delivering alcoholic beverages to underage drinkers, beer's economic impact, and the Human Rights Campaign suspending A-B's perfect score due to its handling of the Bud Light controversy. Plus, the team plays Another Round or Tabbing Out.

That's a Wrap on the 2023 Craft Brewers Conference

Wed, 17 May 2023 19:52:13 +0000

The Brewbound team reunites to dish on the 2023 Craft Brewers Conference (CBC). Jess, Justin and Zoe discuss the Brewers Association's state and federal ambitions, the beer trade groups' union against canned cocktail market access and tax breaks, and trade practice reform.

The team also recaps the 2023 economic impact of Russian River's Pliny the Younger, wholesaler consolidation and plays a game of "Another Round or Tabbing Out," featuring fake c-suite jobs, beer made with tulip petals and chicken-flavored beer.

Brewbound Podcast: Out-of-State Taproom Expansion Strategies, with Monday Night, Hi-Wire and Weathered Souls; Plus, the National Black Brewers Association

Thu, 11 May 2023 16:52:52 +0000

This week's Brewbound Podcast rebroadcasts two Brew Talks conversations from the 2023 Craft Brewers Conference. The first is an introduction to the National Black Brewers Association (NB2A), a newly formed trade group. Executive director Kevin Asato, Harlem Brewing founder Celeste Beatty and Black Frog Brewery owner Chris Harris share the NB2A's mission and vision, explain the challenges Black and Brown brewers face receiving capital and stress the importance of mentorship.

Then, three brewery leaders share their experiences with expanding their taproom presences in out-of-state markets. Monday Night Brewing's Jeff Heck, Hi-Wire Brewing's Adam Charnack and Weathered Souls Brewing's Marcus Baskerville share their strategies, offer advice to others considering similar expansions and lay out the potential pitfalls.

Plus, Brewbound's Justin Kendall and Zoe Licata share their early takeaways from CBC, straight from the convention floor in Nashville.

Rhinegeist Leaders Discuss Leadership Shakeup, Path Forward

Wed, 03 May 2023 17:13:28 +0000

Rhinegeist co-founder Bryant Goulding and interim CEO Adam Bankovich explain the change in leadership at the Cincinnati craft brewery that led to Bankovich's promotion. They share their vision for the brewery's next phase and how to tap into its full potential.

Goulding shares his experience in trying to step back from the day-to-day operations of the brewery and let others take the brewery to the next level.

Brewers Association CEO Bob Pease Previews the 2023 Craft Brewers Conference

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 17:42:50 +0000

Brewers Association president and CEO Bob Pease previews the 2023 Craft Brewers Conference, which will be held May 7-10 in Nashville. Pease offers tips to first-time attendees, shares his message to craft brewers as the segment matures, and offers his perspective on small brewery mergers and acquisitions and craft's conflicting growth drivers.

Whale Watching with Finback Brewery's Basil Lee

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 16:49:04 +0000

Finback Brewery co-founder Basil Lee shares how the New York craft brewery is preparing for the 2023 Whale Watching festival in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. Plus, Lee discusses plans to expand with another taproom in Long Island City and a farm brewery and building a diversified portfolio with spirits and coffee.

The Brewbound team also reviews the Brewers Association's rankings of the top 50 craft breweries by volume for 2022, Allagash's move to Reyes in SoCal and parts of the Bay Area and new products coming out soon.

Jester King Speaks Out About Anti-Drag Bill in Texas

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 17:46:51 +0000

Jeffrey Stuffings, co-founder of Jester King, discusses a bill in the Texas Senate that would fine businesses $10,000 for hosting "sexually oriented performances" – which includes drag events, if people under age 18 are present or on public property – and shares why the Austin, Texas-based brewery is encouraging its followers to oppose it.

Although the proposed law does not apply to establishments that are 21+, many breweries and restaurants that host drag shows are family-friendly and would like to stay that way. Stuffings explains how Jester King has built an inclusive space and why he sees the legislation as an example of "fear of the other."

Dave Infante, editor of independent drinks newsletter Fingers, joins the conversation to share why brewery owners hosting similar events need to be prepared for potential backlash in this overheated political environment.

Tomme Arthur on Growing The Lost Abbey By Scaling Down

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 16:03:23 +0000

The Lost Abbey is in the process of scaling down the business. Tomme Arthur discusses the process of growing by getting smaller, the opportunities he sees ahead for the Southern California-based brewery and the evolution of the craft brewing industry.

BONUS EPISODE ft. Full Circle Brewing and Societe Brewing Live from the CCBA Summit

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 15:00:00 +0000

On this special bonus episode of the Brewbound podcast, the Brewbound team talks with Full Circle Brewing and Societe Brewing live at the California Craft Beer Summit in Sacramento.

Full Circle marketing manager Adam Band and brewer Mike Sumaya talk about what's changed at the Fresno, California-based, Black-owned brewery since new ownership took over in 2016. The duo also discuss the success of building a community through crowdfunding, and the strategy behind the company's unique distribution map.

Societe Brewing co-founder and CEO Doug Constantiner discusses how the San Diego brewery has changed over its decade of life and how the company keeps things fresh while maintaining its core value to "make great beer." Plus, Constantiner gives an update on the state of craft in California and the biggest challenges brewers are facing now.

Listen to both conversations in-full in the episode above, and on popular podcast platforms, including iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher and Spotify.

Have questions, feedback or ideas for the podcast? Email podcast@brewbound.com

Russian River's Natalie Cilurzo and Oak Park Brewing's Rodg Little Live from the CCBA Summit

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 12:44:44 +0000

Live from the California Craft Beer Summit, the Brewbound team catches up with Russian River's Natalie Cilurzo on the 2023 launch of Pliny the Younger triple IPA, the brewery's shift from sours to lagers and more. Plus, Oak Park Brewing's Rodg Little discusses the Sacramento brewery's mission, the People's beer and much more.

Live From the California Craft Beer Summit

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 12:49:44 +0000

The Brewbound team reports live from the California Craft Beer Summit in Sacramento. The team discusses early takeaways from the first major meeting of California's craft brewers since 2019, including thoughts on David Walker of Firestone Walker's enthusiasm for craft beer, Brewers Association chief economist Bart Watson's early production data and much more.

Octopi Has 8 Arms in the Contract Brewing Game

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 18:12:27 +0000

Wisconsin-based contract brewery Octopi Brewing is targeting 7 million cases produced in 2023, and a lot of that product isn't beer. So how is the overall contract brewing landscape shaping up? Octopi founder president Isaac Showaki discusses.

Plus, the Brewbound team plays half-full, half-empty on new products hitting the market, including SunnyD Vodka Seltzer and New Belgium's Wild Nectar Hard Juice, Bud Light Seltzer's new-old ad campaign, and a St. Patrick's Day rally.

Early 2023 Beer Trends with Bump Williams Consulting

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Bump Williams Consulting's Dave Williams and Brian "B.K." Krueger discuss the early 2023 beer category retail trends, how the competition for the cold box is shaking out, the accelerated life cycle of brands, and Dry January and Super Bowl trends. They also share the opportunities ahead for smaller craft breweries and when is the right time to expand.

A Rough Week For Acquired Craft Brands, Plus, How PPP Funds Helped Breweries

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 19:50:59 +0000

After a rough week for craft breweries acquired by Anheuser-Busch, the Brewbound team discusses the fallout of the world's largest beer manufacturer shuttering operations of Platform Beer Co. in Ohio and layoffs at other Brewers Collective brands.

The team also dishes on the resurrection of lager brand House Beer and the executive shakeup at Molson Coors. Plus, featured guest Aaron Staples breaks down the effect the Paycheck Protection Program had on the craft beer industry.

What's Up – and What's Down – in Beverage Alcohol to Start 2023?

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 22:17:49 +0000

3 Tier Beverages consultant Stephanie Roatis shares the beverage alcohol segments trending up (hint, Dry January did all right) and those on the downward swing.

Plus, the Brewbound team analyzes the Drake's-Bear Republic craft-on-craft merger, breaks down Boston Beer's full-year earnings report, questions why one of the largest craft breweries in the U.S. isn't making non-alcoholic beer a focus, and calls for a moratorium on the use of "drinkable."

Who Won the Super Bowl Booze Ad Battle? Plus, BORGs Explained

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 19:41:49 +0000

Marketing and ad executives break down the winners and losers of this year's beverage-alcohol Super Bowl ad battle. Deb Gabor, CEO of Sol Marketing, and Mario Natarelli, managing partner of MBLM, each share an industry insider's view on the ads for Bud Light, Miller Lite, Coors Light, Michelob Ultra, Crown Royal, Remy Martin and more.

Also, Brewbound reporter Zoe Licata explains the BORG (Black Out Rage Gallon) trend of mixing water, vodka and flavor packets into a gallon jug.

The Aftermath of Dry January, Plus CiderCon Road Report

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 21:34:31 +0000

As Dry January wraps up, how do non-alcoholic beer producers keep up the momentum? Partake Brewing founder and CEO Ted Fleming and Lagunitas CMO Paige Guzman share what's next for the growing segment and discuss increased competition and what growing retailer support means for NA beer and similar offerings such as hop water.

Plus, Brewbound reporter Zoe Licata provides a field report from the 2023 CiderCon conference in Chicago.

Guild Leaders on Advocating for DTC Sales, Protecting Privileges

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 23:24:26 +0000

A new year brings the return of legislative sessions across the country and a new agenda for leaders of state brewers guilds. Texas Craft Brewers Guild executive director Caroline Wallace and Iowa Brewers Guild executive director Noreen Otto share their priorities in 2023, including advocating for direct-to-consumer sales, protecting existing privileges, working with wholesalers and much more.

How Well Do You Know Your Brewbound Coworkers?

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 22:02:09 +0000

To celebrate the Brewbound Podcast reaching 100 episodes, Justin, Jess and Zoe break the format to see how well they know each other (or don't) after all these years. Brewbound Insider newsletter writer Sean McNulty joins the festivities as quizmaster.

The team also breaks down the latest news, including full-year off-premise IRI sales data, wholesaler consolidation, and the Fireball/Sazerac class action lawsuit.

Sarah Bettman on the DEI Topics Facing Beverage Alcohol Companies

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 18:26:39 +0000

Leadership development speaker, coach, and consultant Sarah Bettman joins the Brewbound Podcast to discuss the diversity, equity and inclusion topics facing beverage alcohol companies and how they can avoid just "checking off boxes."

The Brewbound team also breaks down the top news stories, including Sazerac suing RNDC for allegedly not paying its invoices, the rebrand and reformulation of New Belgium's iconic Fat Tire, Molson Coors' Super Bowl ad playbook, and the increase in Brewers Association membership dues.

The Intersection of Beer and Pickleball

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 19:37:01 +0000

As the popularity of pickleball grows across the country, so has beer producers' interest in the game. At the intersection of beer and pickleball is an up-and-coming chain of restaurants dedicated to the sport. Chicken N Pickle started in North Kansas City and has branched out to six additional locations across the U.S., with more on the way. What do beverage-alcohol producers need to know about getting on tap and in the cold box at the restaurant chain? Chicken N Pickle mixologist Tim Holmes and director of strategic partnerships Matt Besler discuss with the Brewbound team.

Sazerac's Big Move Gets the New Year Started

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 19:31:00 +0000

The Brewbound team regroups in the New Year to discuss Fireball-maker Sazerac's big distribution move from RNDC to several beer distributors, including Reyes, Andrews, Faust, Keg 1, among others, as well as total beverage alcohol houses Johnson Brothers, Southern Glazer's, Breakthru and more.

Jess, Zoe and Justin also review Drizly's predictions for 2023, the start of Dry January and Athletic Brewing's seven-figure investment, and the closing of Roadhouse's deal for Melvin Brewing.

Five Beer Journalists Enter a Zoom & Wrap Up 2022

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 16:00:00 +0000

The Brewbound team is joined by Beer Marketer's Insights senior editors David Steinman and Christopher Shepard to put a bow on 2022. They discuss the most impactful stories of 2022, the blurring of beverage lines, supplier and wholesaler M&A and much more.

The Most-Read Beer Biz Stories of 2022

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 20:50:18 +0000

The Brewbound team and Insider newsletter writer Sean McNulty discuss the most-read stories on Brewbound.com in 2022, including the sale of Stone Brewing to Sapporo, the annual Brewers Association rankings of the top craft breweries by volume, and more. Then, McNulty takes the mic and quizzes Justin, Jess and Zoe and drags a few predictions out of them.

What's It Like to Open a Brewery in 2022?

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 19:36:53 +0000

Opening a brewery in any year is a challenge. In 2022, amid inflation, rising cost of goods and labor shortages, what's it like to try to move from brewery-in-planning to open with a full taproom? Sarah Real and Mike Dell'Aquila, the co-founders of Hot Plate Brewing, share their experience and the challenges they've faced in trying to open a brewery Western Massachusetts before the end of the year.

The Hazy Aftermath of Brewbound Live

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 22:08:04 +0000

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Catching Up with Brewbound Pitch Slam Winners Lunar, Crowns and Hops

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000

With its 2022 Pitch Slam competition just days away, the Brewbound team caught up with past winners of the Shark Tank-like competition held annually at the Brewbound Live business conference.

Lunar Hard Seltzer co-founder Sean Ro discusses his company's growth since its 2020 victory. Then, Crowns and Hops co-founders Beny Ashburn and Teo Hunter, winners of the 2019 competition, share where they are in the process of opening a 14,000 sq. ft. brewery and restaurant and dish on the roll out of their new e-commerce platform.

The Headlines Heading into Thanksgiving Weekend

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 17:25:14 +0000

The Brewbound team rounds up the latest news heading into the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, including Allagash's 2023 plans, layoffs at Odell Brewing, Molson Coors exiting a pair of partnerships, and much more.

Editor's Note: This episode was recorded before it was widely known that Atrevida Beer Co. co-founder Rich Fierro was the person who helped subdue the shooter at Club Q mass shooting that left five people dead and 19 injured in Colorado Springs, Colorado. We send our deepest condolences to the Fierro family as they recover from injuries sustained in the shooting and mourn the loss of daughter Kassy's boyfriend Raymond Green Vance, as well as the families of other victims.

What's Next for Stone Brewing in 2023

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 18:13:08 +0000

Nearly four months after the sale of Stone Brewing to Sapporo closed, Stone CEO Maria Stipp shares how the integration process has progressed, when the first Sapporo beers produced at Stone will hit the market, Stone's dip into spirit-based canned cocktails, and what's next in 2023.

Big Soda Makes a Big Investment in Non-Alc Beer

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 17:44:27 +0000

Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) has taken a minority stake in non-alcoholic beer maker Athletic Brewing Company, following a $50 million investment in the brand. Athletic co-founder Bill Shufelt shares why KDP was the right partner, what the investment will go toward, and how the company is pacing toward the end of 2022.

John Lane on Draft Day at the Winking Lizard Tavern

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 15:54:49 +0000

Following the Winking Lizard Tavern's annual announcement of its beer menu for 2023, founder John Lane shares how the event shook out, who left the day happiest, the one beer that is untouchable on the Winking Lizard's menus, the inflationary pressures on draft beer, changes to its Tour of Beers program and much more.

Pilot Project's Dan Abel & Glenn Allen Share Plans for Milwaukee Brewery

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 17:49:02 +0000

Chicago brewery incubator Pilot Project recently acquired the former Milwaukee Brewing Company (MKE) facility in Wisconsin. Pilot Project's Dan Abel and Glenn Allen share their plans for the production facility and how the expansion will affect the bev-alc producers they work with and open the door to additional suppliers.

Brewbound Podcast: How to Craft a National Accounts Strategy

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 16:19:25 +0000

National accounts managers from Odell Brewing, Athletic Brewing, Dry Dock Brewing and JuneShine share how they've built their teams and grown sales through chains. This conversation took place in Denver during a live Brew Talks event prior to the Great American Beer Festival.

GABF and NBWA Field Reports, Plus Brew Talks' Portfolio Strategies Beyond IPA

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 19:23:59 +0000

How do you innovate at scale beyond the IPA juggernaut? With the various IPA substyles accounting for nearly half of off-premise craft beer sales, leaders from Dogfish Head, Sierra Nevada, Atrevida Beer Co. and 3 Tier Beverages explore where the opportunities for growth are in other beer styles and how they're building their product mix during a Brew Talks conversation in Denver. Plus, we break some news.

The Chicago Brewseum's Liz Garibay on Preserving Beer and Bar History

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 20:52:13 +0000

Ahead of several industry gatherings in the Windy City, Chicago Brewseum executive director Liz Garibay discusses the importance of preserving beer and bar history and how the stories in those spaces are really oral histories of neighborhoods and cities. Plus, the Brewbound team discusses Reyes' Texas acquisition and New Belgium's next Voodoo Ranger Juice Force beer.

The Great American Beer Festival's Return with Brewers Association CEO Bob Pease

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 14:00:00 +0000

The Great American Beer Festival returns October 6-8 in Denver for the first time since 2019. Brewers Association president and CEO Bob Pease discusses his expectations for the trade group's biggest consumer-facing event, how the experience is different in 2022, the year in craft beer so far, supply chain headaches, and much more.

California Craft Brewers Association's Lori Ajax & Chris Walker on Satellite Locations, On-Sale Privileges & More

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 16:22:56 +0000

The California Craft Brewers Association's Lori Ajax and Chris Walker discuss a pair of bills awaiting the governor's signature that would benefit the state's craft brewers. Those bills -- expanding the number of satellite locations and bonafide eating places, and adding on-sale privileges -- were among the CCBA's priorities this year. Ajax and Walker also dish on middle tier consolidation, direct-to-consumer sales, supply chain issues and much more.

TRU Colors Closes, 2 Big Distribution Deals Made and Allagash to Move its Taproom

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 09:00:00 +0000

The Brewbound team discusses the closure of TRU Colors, the craft brewery that hired rival gang members to work together but whose mission was marred by violence. The team also looks at two big distribution deals, including Reyes entering its 10th market, and Allagash's future plans to move its taproom.

The New Yorker's Charles Bethea on TRU Colors' Questionable Track Record

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 21:45:44 +0000

New Yorker staff writer Charles Bethea discusses his story on TRU Colors in Wilmington, North Carolina, A Brewery's Anti-Violence Mission, Complicated by a Killing.

Bethea does a deep dive into TRU Colors' stated mission to end gang violence by hiring rival gang members to work together and how the company struggles to balance those efforts with its for-profit mission to first sell beer. TRU Colors' mission was further complicated by a double homicide at the home of George Taylor's son, George Taylor III, that led to charges against three individuals.

Dogfish Head, Harpoon and Craft Beer Cellar Explore the 4th Category

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 16:18:35 +0000

In this Brew Talks replay, Sam Calagione of Dogfish Head, Dan Kenary of Harpoon's parent company Mass. Bay Brewing and Suzanne Schalow of Craft Beer Cellar share their views on the evolution of the beer category with the addition of fourth category offerings such as hard seltzers, spirits-based canned cocktails, hard kombuchas, hard teas and more.

Plus, the Brewbound team discusses the results of the Brewers Association's latest Harris Poll consumer survey, the growth of Big Grove Brewery in Iowa, Twisted Tea's importance to Boston Beer and Labor Day plans.

The Latest on the CO2 Issues

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 16:04:04 +0000

The supply of CO2 is tightening in the U.S. What's it mean for craft brewers? Dorchester Brewing director of operations James Haugh and Earthly Labs CEO Amy George join the Brewbound Podcast to discuss the situation and alternatives available to brewers.

Plus, the Brewbound team dives into the latest news, including MIkkeller shuttering its U.S. brewing operations and returning to contract brewing, the booming growth of New Belgium's Juice Force IPA, Allagash adding a year-round IPA to its portfolio, and beer industry vet Neal Stewart's essay on the mental health challenges facing many workers in the beer business.

Paul Weaver on Boston Beer's Cannabis Plans

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 19:23:56 +0000

Paul Weaver, Boston Beer's head of cannabis, discusses the Truly Hard Seltzer and Twisted Tea maker's foray into cannabis-infused beverages in Canada. Weaver shares why tea was the perfect vehicle for a THC-infused drink, how the July launch of Teapot has gone and how the narrative of cannabis stealing occasions from beer has changed.

Strategies for Opening Additional Taprooms and Retail Outlets

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 20:10:18 +0000

This week's Brewbound Podcast features a replay of a Brew Talks conversation on strategies for expanding taproom and retail outlets, featuring leaders from White Lion, Medusa Brewing, Castle Island and Boston Beer Company.

Plus, the Brewbound team reunites to discuss New Belgium's Voodoo Ranger amusement park hoax and trolling of wine country; Ball closing two can manufacturing plants and blaming customer price increases for a lack of growth; the shaky Hard MTN Dew rollout; and Boulevard's Quirk Hard Seltzer sampling boat.

The NBWA's Lester Jones Provides a Reality Check on Beer and the Economy

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 20:08:25 +0000

National Beer Wholesalers Association chief economist Lester Jones joins the Brewbound Podcast to explain why he's bullish on the beer category despite the current economic climate. Plus, Jess and Justin discuss a nightmarish week, recap Brew Talks, and break down the latest headlines, including Night Shift's CO2 woes, the last gasp of Stone and Molson Coors' legal fight, Maui's plans to acquire Modern Times and more.

Bump Williams Consulting Breaks Down Craft Trends Halfway Through 2022

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 16:44:54 +0000

Bump Williams Consulting's Dave Williams and Brian "BK" Krueger break down craft's performance at the halfway point of 2022 and the opportunities available to suppliers. Plus, the Brewbound team talks Boston Beer's Truly tough Q2, wholesaler grievances and more.

Simply Spiked Lemonade Makes a Splash This Summer

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 20:56:56 +0000

Simply Spiked – the hard lemonade Molson Coors launched this summer in partnership with Coca-Cola – has taken the FMB corner of the bev-alc world by storm. Joy Ghosh, VP of marketing for above premium brands and FMBs at Molson Coors, joins the Brewbound Podcast to discuss the company's launch strategy, new campaigns and plans to recruit new drinkers. Plus, the Brewbound team breaks down July 4 off-premise sales and craft beer at the midpoint of 2022.

New Jersey Breweries Battle Taproom Restrictions

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 16:06:05 +0000

As Garden State regulators move to enforce strict limitations of brewery taproom events, Brewers Guild of New Jersey executive director Eric Orlando and Jersey City-based Departed Soles Brewing owner Brian Kulbacki join the Brewbound Podcast to discuss the fallout. Plus, the team talks about Molson Coors' Simply Spiked, the latest Modern Times auction developments, and more.

Melvin For Sale, Pliny the Younger Sets a Record, and Early July 4 Data

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 16:02:57 +0000

The Brewbound team regroups after the July 4 holiday weekend to discuss the potential sale of Melvin Brewing, the success of Russian River's Pliny the Younger release, the death of Boston Beer's Long Drink wannabe Bevy, early read Fourth numbers from Drizly and much more.

The Week in Brewery M&A

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 15:40:51 +0000

The Brewbound team discusses the pending sale of Stone Brewing to Sapporo and the auction sale of Modern Times to an affiliate of Brewery X. This week's featured guest is Courtney Simmons, diversity, equity and inclusion director for New Belgium and Bell's.

A Plot Twist in the Modern Times Auction Action

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 16:04:33 +0000

Modern Times finally hit the auction block, but the winning bid of $20 million from an affiliate of Anaheim, California-based Brewery X has been disputed by MTD Asset Acquisition. The Brewbound team also discusses developments in the trademark infringement lawsuit between Stone and Molson Coors and Mass. Bay Brewing's acquisition of Long Trail Brewing.

Residency Programs Opening the Door to Upstart Breweries

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 15:00:00 +0000

Leaders of Chicago-based Moor's Brewing Company share how their participation in a residency program for Black-owned breweries at Haymarket Brewing helped grow their fledgling business. This conversation took place during the first Brew Talks meetup of 2022 in Minneapolis during the Craft Brewers Conference.

CODO Design on The Beer Branding Trends to Watch in 2022

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 20:26:24 +0000

Isaac Arthur and Cody Fague, the founders of Indianapolis-headquartered CODO Design, break down the beer branding trends to watch in 2022 and beyond, following the release of their annual branding trends review.

Get to Know the Worldwide Brewing Alliance

Tue, 31 May 2022 12:00:00 +0000

The Worldwide Brewing Alliance represents more than 80% of the world's beer production. President and CEO Justin Kissinger and advisor Dan Kopman join the Brewbound Podcast to discuss the global trade group's mission, as well as the challenges facing the beer category, which has lost 12% share of total ethanol to spirits over the last two decades.

The Brewers Association's 2022 Legislative Goals

Wed, 25 May 2022 15:53:41 +0000

Following the Brewers Association's annual Craft Brewers Conference, general counsel Marc Sorini and federal affairs director Katie Marisic join the Brewbound Podcast to discuss the trade group's legislative agenda and what's on the regulatory horizon for the craft beer industry.

Molson Coors' Craft Beer Strategy

Wed, 18 May 2022 17:16:04 +0000

Molson Coors appointed Jeff Agase to lead its craft beer division, Tenth & Blake, on May 11. Agase joins the Brewbound Podcast to share his vision for the division, where it fits within Molson Coors' premiumization efforts, and how the company views M&A.

That's a Wrap on the CBC 2022

Wed, 11 May 2022 16:03:12 +0000

The Brewbound team recaps the 2022 Craft Brewers Conference and shares their big takeaways from the gathering of 10,000 beer industry professionals in Minneapolis. Justin, Jess and Zoe discuss the push on direct-to-consumer sales, brewery cultures and the overarching themes of positivity and back-to-business mentality of the show.

Crafting Community-Centric Beer Festivals

Sun, 01 May 2022 11:00:00 +0000

How can festivals make the beer community more welcoming to people who often don't see themselves reflected in it? Barrel and Flow co-founder Day Bracey and Grace Weitz, founder of Beers With(out) Beards and the Queer Beer Festival, join the Brewbound team to discuss how their festivals offer inviting experiences to beer drinkers who buck the conventional stereotype of white, bearded, flannel-wearing men.

The State of Hard Cider

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 15:59:12 +0000

Leaders within the craft cider industry break scan data misconceptions and share how regional cideries are growing in 2022. American Cider Association executive director Michelle McGrath, Schilling Cider co-founder and CEO Colin Schilling, Swilled Dog Hard Cider & Spirits co-founder and CEO Brooke Glover, and ANXO Cider co-founder and president Sam Fitz discuss the state of the industry, convergence trends, retail gains and much more. This interview was originally released as an exclusive to Brewbound Insiders, as part of the Frontlines video series.

Also in this episode, the Brewbound team counts down to the Craft Brewers Conference, discusses Truly Vodka Seltzer, and bids farewell to Beer Institute president and CEO Jim McGreevy.

'Stone Cold' Steve Austin and El Segundo on the Broken Skull Beers

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 11:00:00 +0000

WWE legend "Stone Cold' Steve Austin and El Segundo Brewing Company leaders Rob Croxall and Tom Kelley share how their partnership on the Broken Skull line of beers works, the bump the beers received following this year's WrestleMania, why their collaboration feels organic and the future of the brand.

What Receivership Means for Modern Times

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 15:46:09 +0000

Modern Times is on the edge of entering receivership to begin a court-ordered sale process. Jack O'Connor, a partner with Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger in Chicago, joins the Brewbound Podcast to explain the process. The Brewbound team also discusses the latest news, including the latest Stone legal wranglings, CBC and more.

Funkytown Brewery on Expanding Craft Communities

Thu, 07 Apr 2022 16:24:29 +0000

The Brewbound team reunites with Rich Bloomfield, Greg Williams and Zach Day, co-founders of Chicago-based Funkytown Brewery. Funkytown's founders discussed what they've been up to since winning the Brewbound Live 2021 Pitch Slam competition, what they've learned about the brewing industry since launching last year, and the roadblocks they've faced trying to bring craft beer to underserved communities in Chicago.

Inside the Stone-Molson Coors Verdict with Bianca Bruno and Brendan Palfreyman

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 16:06:55 +0000

A jury awarded Stone Brewing $56 million in its trademark infringement lawsuit against Molson Coors for its Keystone Light rebrand. Courthouse News Service reporter Bianca Bruno joins the Brewbound team to discuss what it was like inside the courtroom. Plus, Harris Beach partner Brendan Palfreyman returns to discuss the future of the case, if there could be a settlement, what else Stone might seek from Molson Coors, and actions Molson Coors might take.

NBWA CEO Craig Purser Previews 2022 Legislative Conference and Priorities

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 15:52:49 +0000

Craig Purser, president and CEO of the National Beer Wholesalers Association, previews his trade organization's agenda for its upcoming Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C. Purser breaks down the NBWA's 2022 legislative priorities, discusses the U.S. Treasury Department's report on competition in the alcoholic beverage industry, and shares his thoughts on what will be on beer wholesalers' trucks in the next five years.

Stone & Molson Coors Go to Trial

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 18:12:07 +0000

Four years after Stone filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against Molson Coors over its Keystone Light rebrand, the case has finally reached the courtroom. Harris Beach partner Brendan Palfreyman joins the Brewbound team to discuss the latest developments and discuss why this is the "Super Bowl" of craft beer cases.

Hard Seltzer Liquor Store Runs in Utah, Plus NA Lite Beer

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 13:00:00 +0000

The Brewbound team discusses the latest news, including a law making its way through the Utah Legislature that will require several hard seltzer brands to be sold in state-run liquor stores. The team also discusses the launch of Athletic Lite, a 25-calorie non-alcoholic beer, distribution moves in Minnesota and Vermont, and fundraising efforts for Ukraine. Plus, Jess goes to a tap takeover.

Kelly Meyer Explains How Not to Start A Damn Brewery

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 18:41:01 +0000

In the wake of several brewery closures, Kelly Meyer, host of the How Not to Start a Damn Brewery podcast, discusses his experience with starting and selling a struggling brewery. He also shares insights from other brewery owners who shuttered their businesses. Reporter Kate Bernot also joins the podcast to discuss her story on Modern Times being open to a sale or an investor. Plus, Zoe Licata shares her Hard MTN Dew field research study.

Brewers Association's Bob Pease on the Treasury's Competition Report

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 19:10:56 +0000

What does the Treasury Department's report on competition in the alcohol industry mean for craft brewers? Brewers Association president and CEO Bob Pease shares his thoughts on the report and what comes next. Plus, Jordan Breslauer from social media listening firm Social Standards breaks down the bev-alc chatter around the Super Bowl.

A Rash of Closures, A Big Rumor & The Treasury Report

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 17:27:31 +0000

The Brewbound team is joined by Selling Craft Beer's Sean McNulty to discuss several brewery closures, including Modern Times' plans to shutter four locations, the rumored deal between Constellation Brands and energy drink maker Monster, and the Treasury's report on competition in the alcohol industry.

Brewbound Podcast: What's Big Beverage's Plan with Bev-Alc?

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 18:57:00 +0000

Convergence is all the rage as big beverage companies (Pepsi, Coca-Cola, Monster) dive into bev-alc and lean into becoming "total beverage" producers. Nik Modi, managing director for RBC Capital, and Marty Caballero, editor for BevNet (Brewbound's sister publication), join the Brewbound team to discuss the latest beverage partnerships, what has caused the trend, and if a "complete collapse" of the lines between bev-alc and non-alc is ahead.

How Not to End Up in the TTB's Penalty Box With Your Sports Sponsorship

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 13:00:00 +0000

The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau is scrutinizing sports sponsorships struck by bev-alc producers and distributors. How can brewers play in this space without running afoul of the government agency? McDermott Will & Emery's Alva Mather and Nichole Shustack offer their opinions on the Brewbound Podcast.

Bart Watson Breaks Down the Cost Pressures Facing Brewers

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 17:59:15 +0000

The cost of making beer is rising faster than the cost to buy beer, so what does that mean for craft brewers? Brewers Association chief economist Bart Watson discusses the options, plus the state of the supply chain, and the need for a replenishment of the Restaurant Revitalization Fund.

How to Sell More Beer Via E-Commerce in 2022

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 18:31:20 +0000

Rabobank beverage analyst Bourcard Nesin joins the Brewbound Podcast to discuss his report breaking down e-commerce alcohol sales in 2021 and the opportunities that await brewers in the space and tips for how to succeed.

Monster to Buy CANarchy for $330M in Cash

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 22:01:04 +0000

The Brewbound team breaks down Monster's agreement to acquire the CANarchy Craft Brewery Collective for $330 million in cash.

Craft Brewers Joining the Non-Alc Beer Movement

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 13:00:00 +0000

Midway through Dry January, three craft brewers discuss their new non-alcoholic offerings and why these new products make sense both this month and the rest of the year. Deschutes' Veronica Vega, AleSmith's Brandon Richards and Notch's Chris Lohring join the Brewbound team to talk about their N/A beers and the development behind them.

Ball Kicks the Can Down the Road

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 16:00:00 +0000

Ball Corporation has postponed the implementation of its new minimum order quantities and warehousing policy until March 1 after conversations with the Brewers Association and Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR). Then, the newly reunited Brewbound team discusses more headlines, including Topo Chico Ranch Water, Troy Aikman's Eight Lager, and Pabst's social media attention grab.

The Most Read Stories of 2021

Thu, 30 Dec 2021 13:00:00 +0000

As 2021 winds down, Zoe and Jess break down Brewbound's top 10 most read stories of the year. Topics discussed include the beer industry's reckoning with an outpouring of women's experiences with sexual harassment and discrimination on the job, as well as the launches of some hard seltzer brands (Sonic Hard Seltzer, Happy Dad Hard Seltzer) and the demise of another (Coors Seltzer).

Five Beer Writers Enter a Zoom Meeting Pt. 2

Thu, 23 Dec 2021 13:00:00 +0000

Beer Marketer's Insights' Craft Brew News senior editors Chris Shepard and David Steinman join the Brewbound Podcast to discuss the biggest beer industry stories of 2021.

Bev Alc Predictions for 2022

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 21:27:14 +0000

On one of the final Brewbound podcasts of 2021, Jess Infante and Zoe Licata are joined by Jeff Carroll, general manager of Avalara for Beverage Alcohol, to discuss his predictions for 2022, from e-commerce growth and evolution to state DTC shipping changes (or lack thereof). Plus, Jess and Zoe run down recent beer news, and share an exciting Brewbound team announcement!

That's a Wrap on Brewbound Live 2021

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 00:13:44 +0000

With Brewbound Live 2021 in the rearview mirror, the team recaps what happened in Santa Monica both on and off the stage, including Firestone Walker co-founder David Walker's keynote speech, a data deep dive on Gen Z, and panel discussions featuring independent hard seltzer makers, beer buyers at popular national chains, and leaders in the middle tier.

The Ballout

Sat, 20 Nov 2021 02:02:57 +0000

The world's largest can manufacturer, Ball Corp., alerted clients that it will increase the minimum order for printed cans to five truckloads per SKU starting January 1, and the company will no longer offer warehousing for orders. Brewers Association chief economist Bart Watson joins the Brewbound Podcast to provide context on the fallout for craft brewers.

Unpacking the Deal for Bell's and a Trip to Castle Island

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 20:37:55 +0000

Just how big of a deal is the sale of Bell's to Lion Little World Beverages? The Brewbound team along with 3 Tier Beverages founder Donn Bichsel Jr. and Castle Island Brewing founder Adam Romanow discuss the transaction. Plus, Romanow offers insights into opening a second taproom location in South Boston -- such as how foot traffic varies throughout the day in Castle Island's suburban taproom vs. its new one in the city --and the brewery's booming contract brewing business.

Five Beer Writers Enter a Zoom Meeting ...

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 16:39:25 +0000

National beer writers Kate Bernot and Dave Infante join Brewbound's Justin Kendall, Jess Infante and Zoe Licata for a special Beer Byliners crossover conversation. Topics include the Brewers Association's 2022 event vaccine requirement, the disparity in available capital for different brewing ventures, Boston Beer's entry into the Finnish Long Drink space, labor issues at contract brewer City, the "Great Resignation," and Elvira "Mistress of the Dark."

Breaking News: Lion to Acquire Bell's Brewery; Larry Bell to Retire

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 17:14:10 +0000

Kirin-owned Lion Little World Beverages has struck a deal to acquire Bell's Brewery, the seventh largest craft brewery by volume in 2020. Bell's will join New Belgium as part of the international beer manufacturer's craft platform in the U.S.

SoCal Cerveceros Share How the Homebrew Club is Building a Brewery Pipeline

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 18:01:16 +0000

Agustin Ruelas and Ray Ricky Rivera join the Brewbound Podcast to discuss how the SoCal Cerveceros homebrew club is helping build a pipeline of professional brewers. Ruelas and Rivera share their own aspirations, including Ruelas' Brewjeria Company in Pico Rivera and Rivera's contract brewed Norwalk Brew House brand and self-distribution business.

A Discussion with DISCUS

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 18:25:17 +0000

On the heels of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States' annual convention in Austin, Chris Swonger, the trade group's president and CEO, joins the Brewbound Podcast to discuss the growth of ready-to-drink spirits-based canned cocktails, and the organization's efforts to even the tax rates for RTD products with beer, as well as efforts to add direct-to-consumer sales privileges and much more.

The State of the Craft Beer Biz ¾ Through 2021

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 16:17:12 +0000

Bump Williams Consulting's Dave Williams and Brian "B.K." Krueger share insights on the state of the craft beer business in the off-premise three-quarters of the way through 2021. The conversation covers how retailers are allocating shelf space, packaging trends including 19.2 single-serves and variety packs, the focus coming to the hard seltzer space and much more.

We'll All Be Drinking Seltzers From the C-Store

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 20:17:11 +0000

The Brewbound team reconvenes to discuss all the new hard seltzers coming to the convenience channel, plus new products from Sierra Nevada -- a lifestyle tea brand -- and Firestone Walker -- more 805, more Mind Haze and Cali Squeeze seltzers. The conversation then turns to the closing of Due South, the acquisition of Catawba and a bunch of openings. Dusty the dog also makes a squeaky appearance.

What Happened in Vegas

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 16:52:42 +0000

After an eventful National Beer Wholesalers Association annual convention in Las Vegas, the Brewbound team debriefs on all of the middle tier issues discussed over the last week. The team also hits the latest news, including a big wholesaler acquisition in Ohio, comments to the Department of the Treasury by Reyes and others, lawsuits over terminations in New York, and questions over PepsiCo's entry into alcohol distribution.

The Beer Institute's Jim McGreevy Discusses Priorities For the Trade Org

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 19:00:00 +0000

Beer Institute president and CEO Jim McGreevy dishes on the biggest issue facing the trade group's members — tax equalization efforts by spirits companies — and shares his vision for the organization moving forward.

Wrapping Up the 2021 Craft Brewers Conference

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 16:31:57 +0000

The Brewbound team recaps the 2021 Craft Brewers Conference, which focused on health, wellness, diversity, inclusion and equity. They also discuss the recent slowdown of hard seltzer sales and Boston Beer's beyond beer moves that on the surface look like swimming against the current.

Hard Seltzer Tries to Beat the Off-Season Blues

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 12:00:00 +0000

When the boss is away, the mice will play. Team J-Z tackles the news in this bonus episode, while Justin takes a much-deserved vaction. The duo discusses new fall and winter hard seltzer releases, an update on the annual NBWA convention's health and safety policies, and the new Moon Haze brand from Blue Moon.

A Beer Industry Chat About Beer

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 12:00:00 +0000

In Denver next week, the Brewbound team and leaders from Dogfish Head, New Belgium and Bell's will do something refreshingly novel: talk about beer (not hard seltzer). The team is prepping to head to Craft Brewers Conference, when they'll be together in person for maybe the first time ever.

Brewbound Frontlines Short: Sonic Hard Seltzer Heading Outside of Oklahoma Starting in Mid-October

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 20:09:25 +0000

Oklahoma City's COOP Ale Works made a splash in March with the reveal of its partnership with fast-food chain Sonic Drive-In to create a hard seltzer brand based on popular flavors such as Cherry Limeade and Ocean Water. COOP president Sean Mossman joins Brewbound Frontlines to discuss the early returns on the brand, the need to contract out production to meet demand, and the revised expansion plans that will take the seltzer brand to Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and Texas starting in mid-October.

Boston Beer Does the Dew

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 17:13:31 +0000

The Brewbound team breaks down the new partnership between Boston Beer Company and PepsiCo to produce Hard MTN Dew in a conversation featuring 3Tier Beverages CEO Donn Bichsel and Rabobank beverage analyst Bourcard Nesin.

Brewbound Frontlines Short: Rhinegeist Co-Founder Bryant Goulding on Handing Over the Reins

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 16:31:10 +0000

After announcing the hiring of Mike Parks as CEO last week, Rhinegeist Brewery co-founder Bryant Goulding discusses the decision to step back and hand the reins over to a beer industry outsider, the future of the Cincinnati craft brewery, his role moving forward and much more.

The Brewbound Minute: Wormtown Leadership Moves, Mid-Year Survey Results & More

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 22:35:05 +0000

Wormtown picks its next president and general manager; Montucky raises $5.7 million; the Brewers Association provides a snapshot of brewery growth at the midway point of 2021; and restrictions go into effect across the country.

The Plight of the Economy Drinker

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 16:54:06 +0000

How are Generation Z drinkers incorporating seltzers into their parties? The Brewbound team leans on its Gen Z correspondent to understand how seltzers are replacing economy beers in drinking occasions. The team dives into Molson Coors' economy beer purge and what it means for those loyal drinkers. They also put to rest the mainstream media narrative that hard seltzer is dead, and lament the pandemic and lower-than-expected vaccination levels jeopardizing fall events.

The Numerator Challenge

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 19:28:28 +0000

The Brewbound team takes on the "Numerator Challenge" in an effort to better understand the differences in the consumption behaviors of Generation Z and millennial drinkers. The team also discusses Boston Beer Company's tie up with Beam Suntory, gets hit with breaking Reyes news, and dabbles in the various cannabis news of the week.

Are you an omni-biborous consumer?

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 20:49:41 +0000

With the release of the Brewers Association's latest consumer survey, the Brewbound team discusses what it means to be an "omni-biborous" consumer, a term coined by chief economist Bart Watson. The team dives into the survey, as well as Fourth of July data from Drizly, the latest shipment and import numbers, and the latest acquisition by mega beer wholesaler Reyes.

The One Word You Should Never Say on a Slow News Day

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 16:37:11 +0000

The Brewbound team discusses the one word you should never say on a not-so-busy news day. They also discuss A-B's new U.S. leader; legislative moves in NY, PA and NJ; craft beer bar closures; and more.

The Brewbound Minute: Falling Rock to Close, GoPuff to Acquire Liquor Barn & More

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 00:08:53 +0000

Denver craft beer bar the Falling Rock Tap House announced it will permanently close on June 27 after 24 years in business; GoPuff continued its buying spree of brick-and-mortar liquor stores this week with the acquisition of Liquor Barn; Pepsi looking at bev-alc for Rockstar; and much more.

The Brewbound Minute: Lord Hobo Leadership Changes, Pandemic Drinking & More

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 20:23:48 +0000

Lord Hobo makes major leadership changes; myth-busting pandemic drinking; High Noon-maker E. & J. Gallo to construct a production facility in South Carolina; and much more.

Love Conquers Ale

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Boston Beer Company's Carissa Sweigart (leader of diversity, equity and inclusion) and Shelley Smith (brewing innovation manager) join the Brewbound team to discuss Love Conquers Ale, Samuel Adams' Pride month release. Plus, meet the newest member of the Brewbound team.

The Experience of a 'Craft Beer Casualty'

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Indeed Brewing co-founder Rachel Anderson shares her experience of being forced out of the Minneapolis craft brewery and discusses her essay, "I Am a Craft Beer Casualty."

Misconduct and Misogyny in the Beer Industry

Tue, 25 May 2021 20:53:37 +0000

On a special edition of the Brewbound Podcast, the Brewbound team recaps some of the news stories from the outpouring of accounts of sexual harassment, abuse, misogyny and toxicity within the beer industry. The team discusses the chilling effect non-disclosure agreements can have on former employees' ability to speak out about past experiences in toxic workplaces, as well as why employees are hesitant to report harassment or inappropriate behavior when it happens.

Editor's Note: This episode may not be suitable for all listeners. It was recorded on Monday, May 24.

Brew Talks 2021: The Road to Recovery 1 Year Into The Pandemic

Thu, 20 May 2021 12:00:00 +0000

A year into the pandemic, beer industry leaders discuss the pathway to recovery. Panelists include Dogfish Head's Sam Calagione, BevMo's Amy Gutierrez, the Winking Lizard Tavern's John Lane, and the U.S. Small Business Administration's Julie Verratti.

Talkin' Brew Talks and a Peek Behind the Paywall

Thu, 06 May 2021 12:00:00 +0000

The Brewbound team discusses the upcoming Brew Talks live event and dives into the latest headlines. Then, get a peek behind Brewbound's paywall with a special Frontlines interview with Stone Brewing CEO Maria Stipp, first recorded in February 2021.

How Easy is It Being Green?

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Allagash brewmaster Jason Perkins joins the Brewbound team to discuss the Portland, Maine-based craft brewery's twin recycling programs on a special Earth Day edition of the podcast.

How 2020 Shook Out for Craft Brewers

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 12:00:00 +0000

The Brewers Association shared its production report for 2020, and the pandemic made for a tough year for craft brewers. Brewbound's Justin Kendall and Jess Infante dive into the 2020 numbers, recap a BA heavy news week, including the cancellation of the in-person Great American Beer Festival event for the second consecutive year, and offer PR tips and tricks (while also airing grievances).

Why You Shouldn't Freak Out When You See the Latest Off-Premise Scans

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 12:00:00 +0000

As bars, restaurants, offices and pretty much everywhere else shut down in March 2020, consumers rushed to grocery and club stores to stockpile everything they thought they'd need to hunker down at home for a few weeks, including beer. This kicked off months of elevated off-premise beer sales, but now that the calendar has cycled the beginning of that time, beer scan data looks like it's declining. NielsenIQ VP of beverage alcohol practice Danelle Kosmal joins the Brewbound Podcast to explain why there's no need to panic and how we should be deciphering the data.

Protecting Your Taproom Team in the Pandemic

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 12:00:00 +0000

What happens when your state cancels all COVID-19 safety restrictions, but you're not ready to do the same in your taproom? Austin Beerworks co-founders Adam DeBower and Michael Graham joined the Brewbound Podcast to discuss why they're asking guests to continue masking up.

How to Rebrand Without Upsetting Your Drinkers

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 13:00:00 +0000

How do you refresh your brand without alienating your fans? Blind Tiger Design's Oceania Eagan and CODO Design's Isaac Arthur share strategies for rebranding and rallying consumers behind a rebrand.

The Bev-Alc Legal Landscape in 2021

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 13:00:00 +0000

Between pandemic-driven changes to shipping and home delivery privileges, the rise of e-commerce and the nebulous definition of hard seltzer for tax and regulatory purposes, there's a lot that brewers need to know to remain on the right side of the law in 2021. Alva Mather and Nichole Shustack of McDermott, Will & Emery -- a law firm with one of the country's leading beverage alcohol practices -- join the Brewbound Podcast to break down all the pressing legal issues facing the beer industry.

The Big Game, Plus a Big Deal

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 13:00:00 +0000

Did this year's crop of Super Bowl beer commercials score or fumble? Ad Age assistant managing editor E.J. Schultz joins the Brewbound team to break down all the beer ads from the big game. Rabobank analyst Bourcard Nesin also stops by to discuss Uber's $1.1 billion deal to acquire Drizly. The Brewbound team breaks down recent beer industry news, including the culture of harassment and leadership changes at Boulevard, A-B shifting Stella Artois production to the U.S. and more.

The State of the States: Guild Leaders Discuss 2021 Priorities

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 13:00:00 +0000

Nearly a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, state guild leaders from California, Oregon and Minnesota discuss their legislative priorities in 2021 and the challenges ahead for their members. The Brewbound team also discuss the latest news, including Boston Beer's Super Bowl ad, Pabst pausing production of Olympia, the legacy of Untappd and much more.

Changing American Drinkers

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 18:49:05 +0000

Rabobank beverage analyst Bourcard Nesin joins the Brewbound Podcast to discuss a new report that details how the changing demographics of American and how beverage companies can welcome these new consumers, who are more female, more diverse and older.

Nesin and the Brewbound team discuss the Capitol Hill riot and its implications for the beer industry, including how the largest brewers and trade organizations are approaching their political donations.

New Year, New News

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 13:00:00 +0000

The Brewbound team recaps all the beer news that broke while you were celebrating the socially distant holidays: The federal government making permanent excise tax cuts from the Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act; the Dietary Guidelines for Americans upholding its recommendation of two daily drinks for men; the Sheehan Family Companies lawsuit; and much more.

The Brewbound Live Schedule Reveal

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 14:00:00 +0000

With the annual Brewbound Live business conference less than two weeks away, the Brewbound team shares the schedule for the two-day event taking place December 14 and 15. They also air grievances and discuss Thanksgiving eve trends and the latest headlines.

A Canadian Cannabis Company Swallows Sweetwater

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 13:00:00 +0000

Canadian cannabis company Aphria struck a $300 million deal to acquire Atlanta's Sweetwater Brewing Company -- the maker of the 420 Extra Pale Ale brand and other cannabis-themed products.

Liz Connors, director of analytics for Headset, a firm that tracks cannabis data and analytics; Rick Maturo, associate director of client services for the cannabis practice at Nielsen; and
Sean McNulty, host of the Selling Craft Beer podcast, join the Brewbound team to discuss the opportunities and challenges ahead for the combined company, the current cannabeer market and more. Plus, the team discusses growing e-commerce player goPuff's deal to acquire BevMo, Tree House branching out in Massachusetts and more.

Julia Herz On the Road

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 13:00:00 +0000

Craft beer evangelist Julia Herz discusses breweries' needs during the pandemic, how the beer industry can become more inclusive, and what's next for her following her departure from the Brewers Association.

Plus, the Brewbound team breaks down recent beer business news, including winter hibernations announced at breweries in Illinois and Massachusetts, more wholesaler moves in the Midwest and new products in the pipeline at Guinness and Boston Beer.

The Middle Tier, It's Shrinking, But Reyes Keeps Getting Bigger

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 12:00:00 +0000

3Tier Beverage's Donn Bichsel Jr., the Brewers Association's Marc Sorini and PINTS LLC's Kimberly Clements join the Brewbound Podcast to discuss wholesaler consolidation in recent weeks, including Reyes' moves in Indiana, California and Illinois, and what it means for small brewers.

Hard Seltzer, Just Another Word for Innovation

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 12:00:00 +0000

On the second episode of the revamped Brewbound Podcast, a panel of three expert guests discuss hard seltzer introductions from Michelob Ultra, Topo Chico and others, as well as the recently completed acquisition of Craft Brew Alliance by Anheuser-Busch.

Guests include NBWA chief economist Lester Jones, marketing and communications consultant Lisa Derus and Credit Suisse managing director of equity research Kaumil Gajrawala.

Big Brewers Get Even Bigger -- Tomme Arthur, Caitlin Braam, Bourcard Nesin

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

On the first episode of the revamped Brewbound Podcast, a panel of guests discuss recent beer industry news stories, including the joint venture between Molson Coors and Yuengling, the DOJ's approval of the merger between Anheuser-Busch InBev and Craft Brew Alliance, a study that found the beer industry could shed 651,000 jobs by the end of the year due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the staying power of e-commerce sales.

Guests include Tomme Arthur, San Diego-based founder of the Lost Abbey, Port Brewing, the Hop Concept and Tiny Bubbles; Caitlin Braam, Seattle-based co-founder of Yonder Cider and the Source Cider; and Bourcard Nesin, New York-based beverage analyst at Rabobank.

Brew Talks: Beer Trade Group Leaders on The Path Forward

Tue, 08 Sep 2020 16:42:31 +0000

Nearly six months after the pandemic upended the beer industry, leaders from the three major beer industry trade organizations discuss how the industry is meeting challenges presented by the novel coronavirus, efforts to provide brewers with relief, the industry's legislative priorities, and much more.

Guests include National Beer Wholesalers Association president and CEO Craig Purser, Brewers Association president and CEO Bob Pease and Beer Institute president and CEO Jim McGreevy. This audio was first recorded during the August 27 Brew Talks virtual event, presented by Dogfish Head

Brew Talks: Beer Trade Group Leaders on The Path Forward

Tue, 08 Sep 2020 16:42:21 +0000

Brew Talks: Navigating the Next Normal with Dogfish Head, Russian River, Green Bench and Hopewell

Tue, 01 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Leaders from Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, Russian River Brewing Company, Green Bench Brewing Co. and Hopewell Brewing Co. share how their breweries have operated since the COVID-19 pandemic upended the beer industry in mid-March.

Panelists include Dogfish Head co-founder Sam Calagione, Russian River co-owner Natalie Cilurzo, Green Bench co-owner and head brewer Khris Johnson and Hopewell co-founder Samantha Lee. The group discusses running their businesses in volatile conditions, maintaining company culture for employees, and offering consumers high-quality products in hospitable environments during the pandemic.

Brewbound Podcast: Dealmakers Discuss Private Equity's Influence in Craft Brewing and the State of M&A

Tue, 18 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Dealmakers from Arlington Capital Advisors, Cascadia Capital, Cowen and Company, and Farlie, Turner & Co. discuss the influence of private equity money on the craft brewing industry and the current state of M&A activity in the brewing space.

Guests include Craig Farlie, Managing Director, Farlie, Turner & Co.; Townsend Ziebold, Managing Director Investment Banking, Cowen and Company; Nicole Nugent Fry, Managing Director, Cascadia Capital; and Ryan Lake, Principal, Arlington Capital Advisors. The conversation offers a look into the rearview mirror at private equity's infusion of capital into the industry, as well as look forward at the market.

S3 E30: Fresh Fest & Taproom Staff Management During the Pandemic

Tue, 11 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Fresh Fest co-founder Day Bracey joins to discuss the beer festival showcasing Black-owned breweries, and industry professionals share taproom staff management best practices.

Bracey shares his experience organizing a cultural event in a post-COVID-19 world. Dani Babineau, CEO of Worcester, Massachusetts-based Redemption Rock Brewing, and Adam Delaura, co-founder of Manchester, Connecticut-based Labyrinth Brewing, discuss their companies' staff management tactics, including wages and tipping. Arryved POS president Nancy Trigg shares industry trends and how technology can help busy taproom managers.

S3 E29: Ballast Point Leaders Discuss Taking the Helm During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

The leaders of Ballast Point Brewing discuss their journey from running small upstart craft brewery Kings & Convicts, to making one of the biggest acquisitions of 2019.

CEO Brendan Watters and COO Chris Bradley shared the challenges they faced as they were handed the keys to Ballast Point from Constellation Brands just two days before the COVID-19 pandemic shut down on-premise establishments nationwide, including Ballast Point's six retail locations across California and Illinois.

The conversation covers operating in an unstable business climate, maintaining the culture of one of San Diego's largest and most established craft breweries and leading a workforce of more than 500.

S3 E28: Hard Seltzer Makers and National Trends

Tue, 28 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Danelle Kosmal, VP of Beverage Alcohol Practice at Nielsen, analyzes hard seltzer sales trends during the coronavirus pandemic, and leaders from hard seltzer brands Press, Nauti and Bubs discuss how their regional and national brands are competing in the fast-growing segment.

Joining Kosmal on the panel are Archie Gleason, VP of sales for Bubs maker Sycamore Brewing; Amy Walberg, co-founder of Press Premium Alcohol Seltzer; and Christian McMahan, president of Wachusett Brewing Company, which makes the Nauti and Country Hard Seltzer lines.

S3 E27: Removing Barriers to Entry in the Beer Industry

Tue, 21 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Brewing education is expensive, and it's often difficult for entrepreneurs who are Black, indigenous and people of color to secure capital. These hurdles often keep women and people of color out of beer, an industry that's long been dominated by white men. This week's panelists are working to provide scholarships, hands-on experience or business loans to people who want to enter the beer industry.

Brooklyn Brewery brewmaster Garrett Oliver, Tired Hands co-owner Julie Foster and brewer Christina Alleva, Boston Beer director of partnerships Jennifer Glanville and Chula Vista Brewery founder and owner Tim Parker discuss how their organizations and companies are working to break down barriers to entry in the beer industry for underrepresented groups.

S3 E26: Border X and Mujeres Brew Club's New Taproom; Heavy Seas CEO Dan Kopman on the State of Craft

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Border X Brewing co-owners David and Carmen Favela and Mujeres Brew Club co-founder Esthela Davila discuss the upcoming Mujeres Brew House, a taproom and community space for women in San Diego to learn about brewing and the beer industry. Dan Kopman, the CEO of Maryland-based Heavy Seas, discusses the current state of the beer industry and the regulatory assistance needed to help craft brewers get back on their feet.

S3 E25: Legal and Regulatory Experts on Changes Made During COVID-19

Tue, 07 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Legal experts Nichole Shustack of McDermott, Will & Emery and Shauna Barnes of Kaleo Legal joined Brewbound Frontlines to discuss recent privileges extended to brewers and retailers during the COVID-19 pandemic and the finer points of operating within the three-tier system. Jim Peters, director of the Responsible Hospitality Institute, discussed expansion of open container policies to create social districts, which allow people to patronize bars and restaurants safely.

S3 E24: Jack's Abby, Wormtown, Castle Island and Vitamin Sea Leaders Discuss 2019 Growth, COVID-19 Impact

Tue, 23 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Leaders of Massachusetts craft breweries Jack's Abby Craft Lagers, Wormtown Brewery, Castle Island Brewing and Vitamin Sea Brewing discuss their 2019 volume growth and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The conversation turned to the measure of success in the volume growth-obsessed craft beer industry. Panelists discussed what indicators they check to measure the health of their companies, such as product quality, brand loyalty and quality of life for employees.

S3 E23: Weathered Souls Brewing & Buffalo Wild Wings

Tue, 16 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Weathered Souls Brewing co-founder Marcus Baskerville and marketing and sales manager Kimberly Machado discuss the Black is Beautiful collaboration, which aims to raise money and awareness to end police brutality and racism. So far, 635 breweries have signed up to participate.

Buffalo Wild Wings beverage innovation manager Jason Murphy shares the sports bar chain's reopening plans post-COVID-19 shutdown, as well as how the nation's largest pourer of draft beer is adjusting its strategy to stay relevant with craft beer drinkers.

S3 E22: Brewbound Frontlines: Beer Economists Lester Jones and Bart Watson

Tue, 09 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Brewers Association chief economist Bart Watson and National Beer Wholesalers Association chief economist Lester Jones discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected consumers' beer-buying patterns, what the road back might look like for the beer industry and what's needed in the interim as breweries attempt to recoup losses from a shuttered on-premise channel.

S3 E21: Brewbound Frontlines: Leaders of Stone, Rogue and Revolution

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000

In Episode 21 of the Brewbound Podcasts's third season, leaders of Stone Brewing, Rogue Ales & Spirits and Revolution Brewing discuss how their companies are navigating the COVID-19 pandemic.

Stone Brewing CEO Dominic Engels, Rogue Ales & Spirits president Dharma Tamm and Revolution Brewing CFO Doug Veliky share updates on their breweries' business, how they've pivoted and what they're doing to maintain employee culture.

Brewbound Frontlines: E-Commerce During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Tue, 26 May 2020 16:38:11 +0000

In Episode 20 of the Brewbound Podcast's third season, experts from leading e-commerce platforms Drizly and GoPuff, as well as beverage analysts from Rabobank discuss the success of the e-commerce channel during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Drizly director of consumer insights Liz Paquette, GoPuff director of alcohol Randy Ornstein and Rabobank analysts Bourcard Nesin and Jim Watson share how breweries can find opportunities via online sales.

S3 E19: Brewbound Frontlines: Missouri and Georgia Breweries on Reopening

Tue, 19 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Cinder Block's Bryce Schaffter, 2nd Shift's Libby Crider, Creature Comforts' Chris Herron and Monday Night's Jeff Heck discuss how they plan to ease back into on-premise service, safety precautions they're adding to their breweries and the emotional aspect of how it feels to weigh business conditions against the health and safety of staff and customers.

S3 E18: Brewbound Frontlines: Guild Leaders From California, New York and Illinois

Tue, 12 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

In Episode 18 of the Brewbound Podcast's third season, guild leaders from California, New York and Illinois, as well as Brewers Association senior VP Paul Gatza discuss challenges during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Gatza, along with Illinois Craft Brewers Guild executive director Danielle D'Alessandro, California Craft Brewers Association executive director Tom McCormick and New York State Brewers Association director Paul Leone delve into guild fundraising, brewery closures, declines in craft beer sales and more.

S3 E17: Brewbound Frontlines: Founders of Deschutes Brewery and Harpoon Brewery

Tue, 05 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

In Episode 17 of the Brewbound Podcast's third season, Harpoon Brewery co-founder Dan Kenary and Deschutes Brewery founder Gary Fish discuss the survival mode thousands of craft brewers find themselves in. They would know -- Kenary and Fish's companies have ridden out many storms during their 30-plus years in business. They discuss leadership, what it's like to be an employee-owned company and what the beer industry might look like once the pandemic ends.

S3 E16: Brewbound Frontlines: Other Half, Trillium and WeldWerks

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

In Episode 16 of the Brewbound Podcast's third season, the founders of Other Half, Trillium and WeldWerks discuss how they're adjusting their businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Trillium's JC and Esther Tetreault, Other Half's Matt Monahan and WeldWerks' Colin Jones discuss how their businesses have pivoted, how they're approaching innovation, the future of the on-premise and much more.

S3 E15: Brewbound Frontlines: Operating in a State Without Stay at Home Orders

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Representatives from Iowa's Exile Brewing, Oklahoma's COOP Ale Works and North Dakota's Six Shooter Hospitality share what it's like to operate in states that haven't issued statewide stay at home orders during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nick Cervine, Sean Mossman and Angie Pelton share safety measures they're taking, their experiences applying for government assistance programs and more in the first Brewbound Frontlines event.

S3 E14: Brew Talks Virtual: Trade Group Leaders Discuss Legislative Efforts During COVID-19 Crisis

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 21:34:33 +0000

Brewers Association president and CEO Bob Pease, Beer Institute president and CEO Jim McGreevy and National Beer Wholesalers Association president and CEO Craig Purser discuss the industry's responses and legislative priorities in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.

S3 E13: Bump Williams Consulting's BK Krueger

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 17:00:39 +0000

Bump Williams Consulting VP of business development and portfolio strategy Brian "BK" Krueger discusses the slowdown in alcoholic beverage purchasing during the week ending March 28 following two weeks of stocking up during the COVID-19 outbreak. Krueger also shares thoughts on the patterns consumers are beginning to settle into, including the frequency of shopping trips, the regionality of purchasing behaviors, the possible return of variety seeking and more.

S3 E12: Brew Talks Virtual: Brewers, Retailers Discuss Navigating COVID-19 Crisis

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 22:39:46 +0000

Dogfish Head co-founder Sam Calagione, Denizens Brewing Company co-founder Julie Verratti, Total Wine director of beer Matt Bardill and Winking Lizard Restaurant and Tavern co-owner John Lane share how the COVID-19 outbreak has impacted their businesses and discuss strategies for navigating the crisis during a special Brew Talks event.

S3 E11: Special Coverage: Monday Night Brewing's Jeff Heck

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 00:08:59 +0000

In Episode 11 of the Brewbound Podcast's third season, Monday Night Brewing's Jeff Heck shares how the Atlanta craft brewery went into "survival mode" due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Heck discussed the existential threat facing small breweries and the entire hospitality business during a crisis few could have predicted, how business owners must balance the tension between a lack of cash flow and the need to stock up, the future of the industry on the other side of the crisis and much more.

S3 E10: Special Coverage: Rabobank's Jim Watson and Bourcard Nesin

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 22:44:48 +0000

In Episode 10 of the Brewbound Podcast's third season, editor Justin Kendall interviews Rabobank analysts Jim Watson and Bourcard Nesin.

Watson and Nesin share insights into the shift in consumer purchasing behaviors caused by the coronavirus disease, the effect on premium products, the opportunity for e-commerce sales and the challenges facing small brewers and much more.

S3 E9: Special Coverage: Arlington Capital's Ryan Lake

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 23:18:41 +0000

In Episode 9 of the Brewbound Podcast's third season, editor Justin Kendall interviews Arlington Capital Advisors principal Ryan Lake.

Lake discusses why deal-making in the craft beer industry hasn't slowed in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Lake provides insights into those conversations, stresses that good brands will always find a home and more.

S3 E8: Vitamin Sea's Dino Funari

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

In Episode 8 of the Brewbound Podcast's third season, editor Justin Kendall interviews Vitamin Sea Brewing co-founder Dino Funari.

Funari shares how Vitamin Sea's growing popularity doesn't make the company immune to the realities of business, the challenges of balancing time at the brewery with his day job, the goal of maintaining a work-life balance and much more.

S3 E7: Atlanta Brewing's Cameron Davis

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

In Episode 7 of the Brewbound Podcast's third season, editor Justin Kendall interviews Atlanta Brewing marketing director Cameron Davis.

Davis shares what it's like to deconstruct a legacy brand and relaunch it anew, as well as the fallout of rebranding, the realities not matching expectations, the importance of working with an agency, and more.

S3 E6: FIFCO USA's Josh Halpern

Thu, 12 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

In Episode 6 of the Brewbound Podcast's third season, editor Justin Kendall interviews FIFCO USA chief sales officer Josh Halpern.

Halpern discusses how FIFCO USA came to embrace being a big-small brewery, how that leads to co-creating brands with reality TV stars and why ceding some creative control to popular platforms such as Barstool Sports to build brand equity is necessary.

S3 E5: Neal Stewart

Thu, 05 Mar 2020 13:00:00 +0000

In Episode 5 of the Brewbound Podcast's third season, editor Justin Kendall interviews Deschutes Brewery VP of sales and marketing Neal Stewart.

Stewart discusses his preference for working with people with beer industry experience, how craft beer has stopped being an "easy business," and why he's adopted a wholesaler's mindset. He also explains why he's embraced the dreaded question, "How does this help us sell beer?"

S3 E4: Tyler Willie

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 13:00:00 +0000

In Episode 4 of the Brewbound Podcast's third season, editor Justin Kendall interviews Iron Heart Canning founder Tyler Willie.

Willie shares his journey into mobile canning, Iron Heart's expansion into other markets through acquisitions, the growth of his company's beyond beer business and much more.

S3 E3: Michelle McGrath

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 13:00:00 +0000

In Episode 3 of the Brewbound Podcast's third season, reporter Jess Infante interviews American Cider Association executive director Michelle McGrath.

McGrath shares the ACA's goals, opportunities and challenges in 2020, as cider fights for share in an increasingly crowded alcoholic beverage marketplace. McGrath also delves into the trade group's lobbying efforts in Washington, D.C.

S3 E2: Kevin Youkilis

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 13:00:00 +0000

In Episode 2 of the Brewbound Podcast's third season, editor Justin Kendall interviews Loma Brewing's Kevin Youkilis.

The former Boston Red Sox star discusses the next chapter of his career and shares his future ambitions for his California craft brewery, including opening multiple taproom locations in an effort to build up communities.

S3 E1: Rob Burns

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 13:00:00 +0000

In Episode 1 of the Brewbound Podcast's third season, editor Justin Kendall interviews Night Shift Brewing co-founder Rob Burns.

Burns shares Night Shift's "guiding light" of morphing into a beverage company, the company's future ambitions, including a $10 million bet on building a production facility in Philadelphia, and how the 7-year-old company is juggling all of its various projects.

S2 E6: No-Li Brewhouse's John Bryant

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 15:00:00 +0000

In Episode 6 of the Brewbound Podcast's second season, No-Li Brewhouse founder John Bryant shares how his company survived early struggles and why beer companies need to self-reflect and know when not to grow.

S2 E5: Brewers Association CEO Bob Pease and Beer Paws Founder Crystal K. Wiebe

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 18:11:18 +0000

In Episode 5 of the Brewbound Podcast's second season, Brewers Association president and CEO Bob Pease gives a snapshot of the craft brewing industry in 2019. Additionally, Beer Paws founder Crystal K. Wiebe shares how the ebbs and flows of the craft brewing industry affects a small, beer-adjacent business.

S2 E4: Wynne Odell and Ken Grossman Prepare to Step Back

Thu, 07 Nov 2019 15:00:00 +0000

S2 E3: Deschutes Leaders Discuss the Brewery's Evolution and Growing Competition

Thu, 31 Oct 2019 14:00:00 +0000

In Episode 3 of the Brewbound Podcast's second season, Deschutes Brewery founder Gary Fish and other leaders from the Bend, Oregon-headquartered craft brewery discuss growing competition from 7,500 craft breweries and the business' evolution beyond beer.

S2 E2: pH Experiment Co-Founders Karmen Olson and Thomas Bleigh

Thu, 24 Oct 2019 14:00:00 +0000

In Episode 2 of the Brewbound Podcast's second season, Karmen Olson and Thomas Bleigh discuss the pH Experiment's holistic approach to innovation, which extends beyond liquid to experiences, delivery models, technology and more. They also share what it's like to have a license to fail, how they define success and much more.

S2 E1: Douglas Constantiner

Thu, 17 Oct 2019 17:40:10 +0000

In Episode 1 of the Brewbound Podcast's second season, editor Justin Kendall interviews Societe Brewing co-founder and CEO Douglas Constantiner.

Constantiner discusses why 2019 has been a transformative year for the up-and-coming San Diego craft brewery, his journey from investment banking to craft brewing and much more.

Episode 045: Jim McGreevy

Thu, 18 Jul 2019 14:09:26 +0000

In episode 45 of the Brewbound Podcast, Beer Institute CEO Jim McGreevy discusses his group's effort to extend tax cuts for all brewers and importers. He also discusses the importance of fighting aluminum and steel tariffs, explains what it's like to work in Washington, D.C., as a lobbyist in the Trump era, and provides an update on an industry-wide advertising initiative aimed at improving the health of the beer category.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 16:40: Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall introduce episode 45, discuss the constant barrage of hard seltzer content hitting the internet, and read the latest headlines.

16:40 – 41:25: Furnari and Kendall interview Beer Institute CEO Jim McGreevy.

41:25 – 1:01:10: Furnari and Kendall share takeaways from the interview, and select their four-pack of summer activities to do with a beer.

Episode 044: Julie Verratti

Thu, 11 Jul 2019 15:51:04 +0000

In episode 44 of the Brewbound Podcast, Julie Verratti discusses her experience opening a second brewing location, and explains why the company structured its debt around reasonable growth projections.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 15:30: Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall introduce episode 44 and recap their Fourth of July vacations.

15:30 – 46:05: Furnari and Kendall interview Denizens Brewing co-founder Julie Verratti

46:05 – 1:14:07: Furnari and Kendall share takeaways from the interview, select their four-pack of all-time summer blockbusters, and do some "dumb journalist math."

Episode 043: Nancy Palmer

Thu, 04 Jul 2019 11:42:49 +0000

In episode 43 of the Brewbound Podcast, Nancy Palmer discusses what franchise law reform could look like in Georgia, and shares her outlook on similar efforts across the U.S.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 10:30: Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall introduce episode 43, do some Fourth of July trivia and share the latest news

10:30 – 39:40: Furnari interviews Georgia Craft Brewers Guild executive director Nancy Palmer

00:00 – 1:00:18: Furnari and Kendall share takeaways from the interview, and select their four-pack of Fourth of July activities.

Episode 042: John Dantzler

Thu, 27 Jun 2019 17:55:59 +0000

In episode 42 of the Brewbound Podcast, Torch & Crown Brewing co-founder John Dantzler discusses the ins and outs of bankruptcy buys, and explains why he's committed to opening a production brewery in Manhattan. He also discusses what's leading to the uptick in distressed brewery sales, and shares how his business model has evolved over the last five years to accommodate for the current marketplace realities.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 23:55: Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall introduce episode 42, discuss hard seltzers, old beer on retail shelves, and the latest news.

23:55 – 1:02:08: Furnari and Kendall interview Torch & Crown Brewing co-founder John Dantzler.

1:02:08 – 1:23:36: Furnari and Kendall share takeaways from the interview, and rundown segments

Episode 041: Matt Katase

Thu, 20 Jun 2019 16:48:10 +0000

In episode 41 of the Brewbound Podcast, Brew Gentlemen co-founder Matt Katase discusses his flagship philosophy and explains why he identifies "themes" to help guide the company at the start of every year. He also shares the company's expansion plans and contemplates the future of beer retailing.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 10:55: Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall introduce episode 41, discuss the Beer Institute's annual meeting and share recent news.

10:55 – 41:00: Furnari and Kendall interview Brew Gentlemen co-founder Matt Katase

41:00 – 1:00:44: Furnari and Kendall share takeaways from the interview, and rundown segments

Episode 040: Bill Shufelt

Thu, 13 Jun 2019 16:37:16 +0000

In episode 40 of the Brewbound Podcast, Athletic Brewing co-founder Bill Shufelt discusses his outlook on the emerging non-alcoholic beer sector in the U.S., and the occasions in which his products -- and others like it -- play.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 23:45: Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall introduce episode 40, discuss the Beer Institute's annual meeting and share recent news

23:45 – 51:14: Furnari and Kendall interview Athletic Brewing co-founder Bill Shufelt

51:14 – 1:01:22: Furnari and Kendall share takeaways from the interview

Episode 039: Matthew Osterman

Thu, 06 Jun 2019 16:46:52 +0000

In episode 39 of the Brewbound Podcast, Sleeping Giant founder Matthew Osterman shares his perspective on the current state of contract brewing in the U.S. and explains how the contract brewery competes for business at a time when some well-known regional craft players have opened up their breweries for contract opportunities.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 20:35: Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall introduce episode 39 and discuss news

20:35 – 52:15: Furnari and Kendall interview Matthew Osterman

52:15 – 1:11:10: Furnari and Kendall share takeaways from the interview + rundown segments

Episode 038: Steve Fechheimer

Thu, 30 May 2019 15:44:18 +0000

In episode 38 of the Brewbound Podcast, New Belgium CEO Steve Fechheimer discusses the internal tug-of-war between creating new brand identities and leveraging the company's already well-established name.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 20:35: Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall introduce episode 38 and discuss news

20:35 – 52:15: Furnari and Kendall interview Steve Fechheimer

52:15 – 1:11:10: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview

Episode 037: Keith Villa

Thu, 23 May 2019 16:05:48 +0000

In episode 37 of the Brewbound Podcast, Ceria Beverages co-founder Keith Villa discusses his days of brewing and selling the iconic Blue Moon brand, and shares his outlook for the future of cannabis-infused drinks.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 26:05: Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall introduce episode 37 and discuss the latest news

26:05 – 1:09:55: Furnari and Kendall interview Keith Villa

1:09:55 – 1:23:23: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview

Title: Episode 036: Iron Hill Brewery

Thu, 16 May 2019 18:59:19 +0000

In episode 36 of the Brewbound Podcast, Iron Hill Brewery's Mark Edelson and Kim Boerema discuss the opportunities and challenges of running a brewpub chain at a time when brewery taprooms have become so popular, and explain how they see the taproom-focused business model evolving.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 23:10: Furnari and Justin Kendall introduce episode 36 and discuss the latest news

23:30 – 51:40: Furnari interviews Mark Edelson and Kim Boerema

51:40 – 1:15:51: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview and rundown segments

Episode 035: Sean Lawson

Thu, 09 May 2019 18:32:07 +0000

In episode 35 of the Brewbound Podcast, Lawson's Finest Liquids founder Sean Lawson discusses the Sip of Sunshine business and explains how his company approaches innovation. He also shares advice for brewery owners looking to expand and talks about how to entice customers to visit the taproom.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 17:30: Furnari and Kendall introduce episode 35 and discuss the latest news

17:30 – 58:15: Furnari interviews Sean Lawson

58:15 – 1:20:10: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview and rundown segments

Episode 034: Nikos Ridge

Thu, 02 May 2019 17:05:44 +0000

In episode 34 of the Brewbound Podcast, Ninkasi Brewing co-founder Nikos Ridge shares his vision for the Legacy Breweries platform, and explains some of the transaction options that are available to brewery owners. He also discusses how the proliferation of smaller craft breweries is impacting regional breweries, Ninkasi's new hard seltzer offering, and how he sees the better-for-you alcohol space developing.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 20:48: Furnari and Kendall introduce episode 34 and discuss the latest news

20:48 – 58:30: Furnari interview Nikos Ridge

58:30 – 1:21:31: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview and rundown segments

Episode 033: Diversity and Inclusion in Brewing

Thu, 25 Apr 2019 19:23:49 +0000

In episode 33 of the Brewbound Podcast, we rebroadcast this month's Brew Talks conversation on diversity and inclusion with Brewers Association diversity ambassador Dr. J. Nikol Jackson-Beckham; Founders Brewing diversity and inclusion director Graci Harkema; and Bow & Arrow Brewing founder Shyla Sheppard.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 16:25: Furnari and Kendall introduce episode 33 and discuss the latest news

16:25 – 1:02:05: Furnari and Kendall moderate a Brew Talks panel discussion on diversity and inclusion

1:02:05 – 1:17:33: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview and rundown segments

Episode 032: Kai Adams

Thu, 18 Apr 2019 16:07:01 +0000

In episode 33 of the Brewbound Podcast, Sebago Brewing's Kai Adams discusses the ways in which his company has evolved over the years, the decisions he's made along the way, the legislative climate for craft beer in Maine, and how a two-decades-old brewery stays relevant in a competitive environment.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 19:10: Furnari and Kendall introduce episode 32, discuss the latest news, and share a few takeaways from CBC 2019

19:10 – 54:46: Furnari and Kendall interview Kai Adams

54:46 – 1:02:18: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview

Episode 031: Donn Bichsel

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 21:56:22 +0000

In episode 31 of the Brewbound Podcast, Donn Bichsel discusses how Revolution Brewing is dealing with industry headwinds and shares his outlook on the future of craft. He also shares how the company is staying relevant in a crowded marketplace, and how it intends to succeed over the long-term.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 14:50: Furnari and Kendall introduce episode 31, discuss the latest news and share their initial CBC 2019 highlights

14:50 – 49:30 Furnari and Kendall interview Donn Bichsel

49:30 – 56:21: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview

Episode 030: Lester Jones

Thu, 04 Apr 2019 16:16:39 +0000

In episode 30 of the Brewbound Podcast, NBWA chief economist Lester Jones explains how the NBWA's monthly "Beer Purchaser's Index" can help predict future industry trends, and how beer professionals can use it to make more informed decisions. He also explains his "cognitive beer dissonance" theory, and gives us all a reason to believe that the industry is actually pretty healthy.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 20:25: Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall introduce episode 30, discuss a recent encounter with baseball legend Wade Boggs and discuss the latest news

20:25 – 54:00 Furnari and Kendall interview Lester Jones

54:00 – 1:07: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview

Title: Episode 029: Rob Tod

Thu, 28 Mar 2019 15:53:48 +0000

In episode 29 of the Brewbound Podcast, Brewbound editors Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall chat with Allagash founder Rob Tod about how the addition of canned packages will transform the Allagash business in the years to come, how the company is repositioning itself off-premise, why it invests disproportionately in quality-control measures and how it approaches innovation without chasing trends.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 16:45: Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall introduce episode 29, discuss recent people moves and provide an update on #Corntroversy

16:45 – 1:00:10 Furnari and Kendall interview Rob Tod

1:00:10 – 1:11:35: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview

Episode 028: Bart Watson

Thu, 21 Mar 2019 15:27:11 +0000

In episode 28 of the Brewbound Podcast, BA chief economist Bart Watson shares his early 2018 analysis and discusses the circumstances that have led to an increasing number of brewery closures in recent years. He also answers questions about the BA's revised craft brewer definition, and the possible future impact of legal recreational cannabis on the alcohol segment.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 17:50: Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall introduce episode 28 and discuss the latest legislative and leadership updates in the beer industry

18:50 – 53:50: Furnari and Kendall interview Bart Watson

53:50 – 1:04:38: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview and run down segments

Episode 027: Justin Catalana

Thu, 14 Mar 2019 16:26:58 +0000

In episode 27 of the Brewbound Podcast, Fort Point Beer Company founder Justin Catalana shares his plan to grow the company's revenue to as much as $22 million in 2019, while hiring another five dozen employees. He also discusses the pros and cons of self-distribution, why the company takes a debt-averse approach to financing growth, and how it builds strong core brands at time when breweries and consumers alike are chasing new beer offerings.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 18:50: Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall introduce episode 27 and discuss the Brewers Association's new top 50 U.S. craft brewing companies list

18:50 – 50:10: Furnari interviews Justin Catalana

50:10 – 1:10:14: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview and run down segments

Episode 026: Jeff Heck

Thu, 07 Mar 2019 16:04:41 +0000

In episode 26 of the Brewbound Podcast, recorded in February, Monday Night Brewing co-founder Jeff Heck discusses the company's recruiting and hiring processes, interviewing and onboarding new employees, the company's culture, and how the executive team encourages employees to take ownership over certain aspects of the brewery's operations.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 10:20: Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall introduce episode 26 and discuss recent news items.

10:20 – 40:55: Furnari and Kendall interview Jeff Heck

40:55 – 49:45: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview

Episode 025: Peter Bissell

Thu, 28 Feb 2019 12:00:00 +0000

In episode 25 of the Brewbound Podcast, Bissell Brothers co-founder Peter Bissell shares his company's origin story and discusses brand building, the future of "line culture" in craft beer, how the company is introducing its beer to new consumers at a secondary brewery in northern Maine, and why he looks outside of the beer industry for inspiration, among other topics.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 09:35: Furnari and Kendall introduce episode 25
09:35 – 56:31: Furnari and Kendall interview Peter Bissell
56:32 – 1:06:28: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview

Episode 024: Chris Jackson and Patrick Delves

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 16:33:57 +0000

In episode 24 of the Brewbound Podcast, which was recorded at the end of 2018, Chris Jackson and Patrick Delves discuss Seismic's sustainability efforts, what it's like to sell beer in wine country, early entrepreneurial lessons they've learned, and how the emerging cannabis industry could disrupt the alcohol sector, among other topics.

Also in this episode: Brewbound editors Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall talk about Anheuser-Busch InBev's latest acquisition and discuss a pair of compromise bills in Texas that could finally give manufacturing breweries the right to sell beer to-go.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 18:16: Furnari and Kendall introduce episode 24 and discuss recent news items.
18:16 – 55:03: Furnari interviews Jackson and Delves
55:03 – 1:12:54: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview and rundown segments

Episode 023: Jason and Todd Alström

Thu, 14 Feb 2019 20:36:36 +0000

In episode 23 of the Brewbound Podcast, Jason and Todd Alström sit down for a discussion about the business of beer festivals, the future of print journalism within beer, A-B InBev's investment in competitor beer ratings website RateBeer, and what it's like to be at the center of a controversy that is unfolding on the BeerAdvocate forum.

Also in this episode: Furnari and Kendall discuss forthcoming acquisitions by a well-funded cannabis company, brewery closures in Portland, Oregon, and the disturbing allegations of sexual misconduct by the owner of a small craft brewery in Ohio.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 23:40: Furnari and Kendall introduce episode 23 and discuss recent news items.
23:40 – 52:40: Furnari and Kendall interview the Alströms
52:40 – 1:05:19: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview and rundown segments

Episode 022: Natalie Cilurzo

Thu, 07 Feb 2019 17:15:07 +0000

In episode 22 of the Brewbound Podcast, Russian River Brewing co-owner Natalie Cilurzo sits down for a wide-ranging conversation that examines the process of managing debt, buying out investors, building a $50 million brewery, exploring industry trends and more.

Also in this episode: Brewbound editors Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall discuss Anheuser-Busch's Super Bowl LIII commercials and Sierra Nevada's first-ever acquisition. They also give their Warm Shelf/Cold Box nominations of the week, and play a game of "Did Andy Crouch Tweet That?"

Show Notes:

0:00 – 14:40: Furnari and Kendall introduce episode 22, discuss Super Bowl commercials and Sierra Nevada's first-ever acquisition.
14:40 – 58:00: Furnari interviews Cilurzo
58:00 – 1:12:47: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview and rundown segments

Episode 021: Fergal Murray

Thu, 31 Jan 2019 16:25:41 +0000

In episode 21 of the Brewbound Podcast, Murray discusses the changes to the American beer scene that he's witnessed during his long career in beer, his latest collaboration with Wachusett Brewing and innovations that could drive future category growth.

Also in this episode: Brewbound editors Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall share their takeaways from the annual Beer Business Daily Summit in San Diego.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 18:07: Furnari and Kendall introduce episode 21, and share their takeaways from the 16th Annual Beer Business Daily Summit
18:07 – 51:18: Furnari and Kendall interview Fergal Murray
51:18 – 1:02:07: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview and explain why McP's Irish Pub on Coronado Island has some of the best people watching

Episode 020: Brendan Sindell

Thu, 24 Jan 2019 16:44:14 +0000

In episode 20 of the Brewbound Podcast, House Beer founder Brendan Sindell discusses his company's value proposition, its distribution and growth strategy, the challenges and opportunities of selling a single product offering and why his investors remain interested in the beer category despite declining volumes.

Also in this episode: Brewbound editors Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall discuss Super Bowl storylines, the closing of the Widmer taproom in Portland, Oregon, and key executive hires at Sierra Nevada and MillerCoors. They also share some social media accounts to follow, and discuss the latest "Beer Twitter" debate over craft breweries using unpaid volunteers on packaging day.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 20:10: Furnari and Kendall introduce episode 20, discuss Super Bowl storylines and discuss the latest news
20:10 – 49:30: Furnari interviews Brendan Sindell
49:30 – 1:06:37: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview and rundown this week's segments

Episode 019: Josh Landan

Thu, 17 Jan 2019 20:35:42 +0000

In episode 19 of the Brewbound Podcast, Josh Landan talks about his time building the Saint Archer brand and the lessons he learned as a first-time entrepreneur. He also discusses the differences between building a beer company and a non-alcoholic beverage company.

Also in this episode: Brewbound editors Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall discuss the early 2019 headlines and storylines. Furnari and Kendall also make some predictions for the new year and provide an update on the Goose Island field goal challenge.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 24:45: Furnari and Kendall introduce episode 19, and make some predictions

24:45 – 59:55: Furnari and Kendall interview Josh Landan

59:55 – 1:09:52: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview

Episode 018: Tony Yanow

Thu, 10 Jan 2019 17:56:40 +0000

In episode 18 of the Brewbound Podcast, Tony Yanow discusses the circumstances that led to the sale of Golden Road, and what his goals are for the Artisanal Brewers Collective. He also talks about the state of the craft beer market, the consumer shift toward supporting hyper-local businesses, and how he evaluates beers that are sold in his pubs.

Also in this episode: Brewbound editors Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall discuss Andy Thomas' revised employment contract with CBA, and explain why Pizza Hut is expanding its beer delivery service. Furnari and Kendall also share musings from beer Twitter, including the outrage over Sen. Elizabeth Warren's choice of beer, and Goose Island's free-beer-for-a-year promotion.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 16:35: Furnari and Kendall introduce episode 18, discuss Andy Thomas' revised employment contract with CBA, and explain why Pizza Hut is expanding its beer delivery service

16:35 – 51:35: Furnari and Kendall interview Tony Yanow

51:35 – 1:15:56: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview and rundown segments

Episode 017: Doug Campbell

Thu, 03 Jan 2019 17:32:02 +0000

In episode 17 of the Brewbound Podcast, Brewery Ommegang president Doug Campbell discusses the Brut IPA trend, how Brewery Ommegang plans to help build awareness around the new style, and the challenges of building an entirely new product category. He also discusses strategies for executing successful partnerships – such as the one Ommegang had with HBO and the Game of Thrones series – as well as a consumer shift toward prioritizing proximity over quality when making purchasing decisions.

Also in this episode: Brewbound editors Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall share Brewbound's most-read stories of 2018, and the final news clips that crossed our desks before the end of the year. Furnari and Kendall also introduce two new segments, and share their 2019 New Year's resolutions.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 12:25: Furnari and Kendall introduce episode 17, discuss the top read stories on Brewbound in 2018 and the final news clips of the year

12:25 – 50:53: Furnari and Kendall interview Doug Campbell

50:53 – 1:10:31: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview and rundown segments

Episode 016: Eric Ottaway

Thu, 27 Dec 2018 17:21:30 +0000

In episode 16 of the Brewbound Podcast, Brooklyn Brewery CEO Eric Ottaway discusses his company's global partnership strategy, shrinking international opportunities for U.S. craft breweries, growing consumer interest in low- and no-alcohol products, and the overall state of the beer business.

Also in this episode: Brewbound editors Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall discuss the latest news, including information about Anheuser-Busch InBev's recent partnership with Canadian cannabis company Tilray, layoffs at Oregon's Deschutes Brewery, the Brewers Association's "craft brewer" definition change and retail franchise Craft Beer Cellar's ongoing legal disputes.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 21:27: Furnari and Kendall introduce episode 16 and discuss the latest beer news

21:27 – 53:50: Furnari and Kendall interview Eric Ottaway at Brewbound Live

53:50 – 1:00:06: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview

Episode 015: Jim Woods

Thu, 20 Dec 2018 15:23:35 +0000

In episode 15 of the Brewbound Podcast, Woods Beer Co. founder Jim Woods discusses his company's shift from a distribution-focused business model to a retail-minded operation. He also talks about the difficulty of trying to build a new product segment – in his case yerba mate-infused beer – and the challenges small breweries face now that thousands of competitors have flooded the space.

Also in this episode: Brewbound editors Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall share the latest news, including information about new co-packing facility in New Hampshire, details about equipment manufacturer DME's receivership, and an update on Drizly's latest round of funding.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 7:07: Furnari and Kendall introduce episode 15 and read the latest news

8:07 – 40:15: Furnari interviews Jim Woods

40:15 – 54:29: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview

Episode 014: Michael Kurson + Neil Quigley

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 17:14:56 +0000

In episode 14 of the Brewbound Podcast, Michael Kurson and Neil Quigley, the founders of Briggs Hard Seltzer, discuss their offerings – which are made with 100 percent real fruit -- the emerging spiked seltzer category, and the opportunities they see for a higher-end brand in the market.

Also in this episode: Brewbound editors Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall share the latest news, including details about layoffs at Anheuser-Busch, another update on the Trillium Brewing controversy and new data from the Brewers Association. Furnari and Kendall also celebrate the return of segments, including the debut of "Seriously, WTF?"

Show Notes:

0:00 – 8:05: Furnari and Kendall introduce episode 14 and read the latest news

8:05 – 31:48: Furnari interviews the founders of Briggs Hard Seltzer

31:48 – 41:00: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview

41:00 – 56:19: Segments, including "Seriously, WTF?" "Bad PR Pitches" and Buy 'Em a Beer."

Episode 013: Dan Kopman

Thu, 06 Dec 2018 18:40:01 +0000

In episode 13 of the Brewbound Podcast, Dan Kopman, the co-founder of The Saint Louis Brewery, discusses his experience launching and building Schlafly Beer in the early days of craft beer, the amount of change that's occurred in the industry since the early 1990s – and the impact that's had on the three-tier system -- and he also shares lessons for other beer entrepreneurs.

Also in this episode: Brewbound editor Chris Furnari shares the latest news items, including information about a new hard seltzer product from Oskar Blues, an update on the Pabst-MillerCoors contract brewing lawsuit, and details about Boston-area craft brewery Trillium Brewing, whose labor practices and brewing methods are under scrutiny after accusations were lodged by a self-described former employee in an online beer forum.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 1:17: Furnari introduces episode 13

1:17 – 6:20: Furnari runs down the latest beer industry news

6:20 – 44:15: Furnari interviews Dan Kopman

44:15 – 45:25: Outro

Episode 012: Jake Maddux

Fri, 30 Nov 2018 02:22:48 +0000

In episode 12 of the Brewbound Podcast, editor Chris Furnari interviews Jake Maddux, owner of The Brewer's Table in Austin, Texas.

During the interview, Maddux discusses how The Brewers' Table is redefining food and beer pairings, how he fortuitously found his way into the beer industry, and why he is hell-bent on winning a James Beard Award.

Episode 12 also features a conversation about the 2018 Brewbound Live business conference with Brewbound editor Justin Kendall and BevNET senior brand specialist Jon Landis.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 10:00: Introduction to episode 12 and a discussion about Brewbound Live 2018

10:00 – 39:45: Interview with Jake Maddux

39:45 – 41:02: Outro

Episode 011: Hugh Sisson

Thu, 22 Nov 2018 14:00:00 +0000

In episode 11 of the Brewbound Podcast, editor Chris Furnari interviews Hugh Sisson, the founder and managing partner of Heavy Seas Beer in Baltimore, Maryland.

In the mid-'80s, Sisson successfully lobbied the Maryland General Assembly to pass legislation required to open a brewpub in Maryland, and he opened the state's first pub brewery, called Sisson's.

In 1994, he left Sisson's to launch Clipper City Brewing Company, which is more widely known as Heavy Seas. Today, his company's products are sold in 20 states as well as Washington, D.C.

During the interview, Hugh discusses how his company is evolving amid increasing competition within the craft beer segment, and he explains the headwinds facing regional breweries. He also talks about trends that he's paying close attention to, and shares his vision of how the beer category will continue to mature in the coming years.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 3:03: Introduction to episode 11

3:03 – 39:14: Interview with Hugh Sisson

39:14 – 40:02: Outro

Episode 010: Amy Cartwright

Thu, 15 Nov 2018 14:54:15 +0000

In episode 10 of the Brewbound Podcast, Brewbound editors Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall interview Independence Brewing co-founder Amy Cartwright.

Throughout the conversation, Cartwright discusses her entrepreneurial journey, explains how the craft beer landscape in Texas has changed since Independence opened in 2004, and shares her thoughts on consumer purchasing habits.

Cartwright also discusses her company's deal with Lagunitas Brewing and Texas' confusing direct-to-consumer sales laws.

Also in this episode: Furnari and Kendall discuss Artisanal Brewing Ventures' acquisition of Sixpoint, Pabst Brewing's lawsuit with MillerCoors, and the 'Camp Fire' wildfires in California. They also share some bad PR pitches, and offer a conspiracy theory about rapper Post Malone and Brewers Association director Paul Gatza.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 1:08: Furnari introduces episode ten

1:31 – 13:06: Furnari and Kendall discuss the latest news items.

13:06 – 49:12: Interview with Cartwright

49:12 – 1:11:16: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview and rundown the latest segments.

Episode 009: Bill Covaleski

Thu, 08 Nov 2018 16:37:36 +0000

In episode nine of the Brewbound Podcast, Brewbound editor Justin Kendall interviews Victory Brewing co-founder Bill Covaleski.

In episode nine of the Brewbound Podcast, editor Justin Kendall interviews Victory Brewing co-founder Bill Covaleski, who explains how the company's growth strategies have evolved as the craft beer category has become more competitive.

Throughout the conversation, Covaleski shares his thoughts on how craft breweries can reach a broader base of beer consumers as well as opportunities he sees ahead for Victory. He also dives into Victory and Southern Tier's tie-up with Artisanal Brewing Ventures and talks about the family-office backed collective's appetite for continued M&A.

Also in this episode: Kendall and fellow Brewbound editor Chris Furnari discuss the proposed changes to the Brewers Association's (BA) craft brewer definition, and rundown a grab bag of segments.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 1:55: Furnari introduces episode nine.

2:15 – 24:46: Furnari and Kendall discuss proposed changes to the BA craft brewer definition, and introduce the interview with Covaleski.

24:46 – 48:00: Interview with Covaleski.

48:00 – 1:06:12: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview and rundown this week's segments.

Episode 008: Bill Hackett

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 15:13:19 +0000

In episode eight of the Brewbound Podcast, editor Chris Furnari interviews Constellation Brands' beer division chairman Bill Hackett, who talks about building the Corona brand in the United States.

Throughout the conversation, Hackett discusses how the beer industry has changed since he started with Pabst Brewing Company in 1976, the strategies that have allowed the Corona brand to flourish in the U.S. over the last three decades, and how he sees the beer market evolving in the years to come.

Also in this episode: Furnari and fellow Brewbound editor Justin Kendall discuss the latest news and run down segments.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 1:45: Furnari introduces episode eight

2:06 – 10:30: Furnari and Kendall catch up on the latest news and introduce the featured interview with Bill Hackett

10:30 – 37:30: Interview with Hackett

37:30 – 46:30: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview

46:30 – 55:01: Furnari and Kendall rundown three Brewbound Podcast segments -- Challenge Flag, Are You Kidding Me and Tweet of the Week

The Brewbound Podcast is an audio broadcast extension of Brewbound's leading B2B beer industry reporting, featuring interviews with beer industry executives and entrepreneurs, along with highlights and commentary from the weekly news. New episodes are released every Thursday. Send comments and suggestions to podcast@brewbound.com.

Episode 007: Josh Hare

Thu, 25 Oct 2018 13:38:05 +0000

In episode seven of the Brewbound Podcast, editors Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall discuss Texas' confusing direct-to-consumer sales laws with Hops & Grain Brewing founder Josh Hare.

Throughout the conversation, Hare explains his path to becoming a brewery entrepreneur, how he's financed the company's growth over the last seven years, and why current Texas alcohol laws make it difficult for upstart breweries to breakout.

Also in this episode: Furnari and Kendall share the latest news and run down segments.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 1:57: Brewbound editors Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall introduce episode seven

2:18 – 7:27: Furnari and Kendall catch up on the latest news and introduce the featured interview with Josh Hare

7:27 – 51:15: Interview with Hare

51:15 – 59:18: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview

59:18 – 1:07:39: Furnari and Kendall rundown Brewbound Podcast segments

The Brewbound Podcast is an audio broadcast extension of Brewbound's leading B2B beer industry reporting, featuring interviews with beer industry executives and entrepreneurs, along with highlights and commentary from the weekly news. New episodes are released every Thursday. Send comments and suggestions to podcast@brewbound.com.

Episode 006: Sam Calagione

Wed, 17 Oct 2018 18:01:43 +0000

In episode six of the Brewbound Podcast, editor Chris Furnari and Dogfish Head co-founder Sam Calagione discuss how the Delaware craft brewery is "navigating the noise" of 7,000 small breweries, how other craft breweries can grow without taking on too much debt, and how Dogfish Head has financed its own expansion in recent years.

Throughout the conversation, conducted during Dogfish Head's annual distributor meeting, held in Baltimore last month, Calagione explains the benefits of remaining a small, taproom-focused brewery in today's competitive marketplace, why he is bullish on the Brewers Association's independent craft brewer seal, and how he envisions the marketplace evolving in the coming years.

Also in this episode: Furnari and Brewbound assistant editor Justin Kendall share the latest news and run down segments.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 1:34: Brewbound editors Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall introduce episode six

1:55 – 6:31: Furnari and Kendall catch up on the latest news and introduce the featured interview with Sam Calagione

6:31 – 39:16: Interview with Calagione

39:16 – 50:17: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview

50:17 – 55:18: Furnari and Kendall rundown Brewbound Podcast segments

The Brewbound Podcast is an audio broadcast extension of Brewbound's leading B2B beer industry reporting, featuring interviews with beer industry executives and entrepreneurs, along with highlights and commentary from the weekly news. New episodes are released every Thursday. Send comments and suggestions to podcast@brewbound.com.

Episode 005: Lynne Weaver

Thu, 11 Oct 2018 14:35:16 +0000

In episode five of the Brewbound Podcast, editors Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall sit down with Three Weavers founder Lynne Weaver to discuss why she "bought into" the Canarchy Craft Brewery Collective, opportunities to grow craft beer sales in Los Angeles and why Three Weavers initially chose to build its brand on-premise as a draft-only brewery.

Throughout the conversation, conducted during the 2018 Great American Beer Festival, Weaver explains the process of launching, scaling and selling Three Weavers, the maturation of the craft beer category, and how Canarchy will help Three Weavers expand into off-premise chain retail sets.

Also in this episode: Furnari and Kendall share the latest news and run down segments.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 1:26: Furnari introduces episode five.

1:48 – 8:08: Furnari and Kendall catch up on the latest news and introduce the featured interview with Lynne Weaver

8:08 – 39:21: Interview with Lynne Weaver

39:21 – 44:46: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the interview

44:46 – 55:42: Brewbound Podcast segments: Challenge Flag and Stay Woke.

The Brewbound Podcast is an audio broadcast extension of Brewbound's leading B2B beer industry reporting, featuring interviews with beer industry executives and entrepreneurs, along with highlights and commentary from the weekly news. New episodes are released every Thursday. Send comments and suggestions to podcast@brewbound.com.

Episode 004: Jake Rouse

Wed, 03 Oct 2018 21:59:27 +0000

In episode four of the Brewbound Podcast, editor Chris Furnari sits down with Braxton Brewing co-founder Jake Rouse to discuss his journey as a beer entrepreneur, collaboration and partnership strategies, and managing rapid growth.

Throughout the conversation, conducted in mid-August 2018, Rouse explains how his company approaches collaborative brewing projects. He also shares how Braxton has professionalized as it has grown while maintaining its company culture as well as the loneliness of being a founder.

Also in this episode: Brewbound assistant editor Justin Kendall shares the latest news and runs down our segments.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 1:17: Brewbound editors Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall introduce episode four

1:38 – 13:16: Furnari and Kendall catch up on the latest news and introduce the featured interview with Jake Rouse

13:16 – 59:06: Interview with Jake Rouse

59:06 – 1:03:28: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the Rouse interview

1:03:28 – 1:18:06: Furnari and Kendall rundown Brewbound Podcast segments

The Brewbound Podcast is an audio broadcast extension of Brewbound's leading B2B beer industry reporting, featuring interviews with beer industry executives and entrepreneurs, along with highlights and commentary from the weekly news. New episodes are released every Thursday. Send comments and suggestions to podcast@brewbound.com.

Episode 003: Tomme Arthur + Gov. John Hickenlooper

Wed, 26 Sep 2018 19:24:48 +0000

In episode three of the Brewbound Podcast, Brewbound editors Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall sit down with Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper and Tomme Arthur, the co-founder of Port Brewing and The Lost Abbey, for two separate conversations about beer, politics and the future of brewing.

During the episode's first interview, Gov. Hickenlooper discusses his possible presidential bid in 2020, the impact of steel and aluminum tariffs on small businesses, an emerging cannabis industry and the evolution of the craft beer category since he opened Denver's Wynkoop Brewing in 1988.

In the second interview with Port Brewing's Tomme Arthur, Furnari and Kendall explore the state of the industry, innovation versus imitation, and how he thinks the industry will continue to evolve in the future.

Show Notes:

0:00 – 3:28: Brewbound editors Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall introduce episode two.

3:30 – 19:46: An interview with Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper

19:48 – 21:13: Furnari and Kendall introduce their interview with Tomme Arthur

21:15 – 57:04: An Interview with Tomme Arthur

57:05 – 1:04:17: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the Arthur interview.

1:04:17 – 1:13:20: Furnari and Kendall rundown Brewbound Podcast segments "First One's Free," and "Beer Twitter."

Episode 002: Carey Falcone

Wed, 19 Sep 2018 23:25:12 +0000

In the second episode of the Brewbound Podcast, Carey Falcone, the co-founder of New Realm Brewing, joins Brewbound editor Chris Furnari in a discussion about his long career in the beer business and the launch of the Atlanta-based beer company.

Throughout the conversation, Falcone talks about his experience as a first-time entrepreneur, New Realm's core values, the eight-year planning process to get the brewery off the ground, and how he convinced former Stone Brewing Company brewmaster Mitch Steele to move across the country to join a startup in the South.

Falcone also discusses the impact that recently enacted direct-sales laws in Georgia have had on New Realm's business, the decision to purchase a distressed brewing facility in Virginia ahead of the company's original expansion plans, and how he envisions the craft beer category evolving over the next decade.

Show Notes:

0:00 -- 1:33: Brewbound editors Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall introduce episode two.

1:54 -- 11:18: Furnari and Kendall catch up on the most recent industry news, and introduce the Falcone interview.

11:20 -- 48:12: Furnari interviews Falcone.

48:15 – 58:27: Furnari and Kendall share their takeaways from the Falcone interview, and introduce upcoming Brewbound Podcast segments.

The Brewbound Podcast is an extension of Brewbound's leading B2B beer industry reporting, featuring interviews with beer industry executives and entrepreneurs, along with highlights and commentary from the weekly news. New episodes are released every Thursday. Send comments and suggestions to podcast@brewbound.com.

Episode 001: Dan Kenary

Wed, 12 Sep 2018 22:39:38 +0000

In the inaugural episode of the Brewbound Podcast, Dan Kenary, the co-founder of Boston-based Mass Bay Brewing Company (Harpoon Brewery), joins Brewbound editor Chris Furnari in a discussion on the state of the beer industry.

Throughout the conversation, Kenary talks about his experience launching and scaling Harpoon, some of the more savvy business decisions he's made over the years -- including the purchase of a distressed brewery in Vermont for 25 cents on the dollar -- and where he thinks the craft category is headed over the next few years.

Show Notes:

0:00 -- 5:41: Brewbound editors Chris Furnari and Justin Kendall introduce the Brewbound podcast and discuss the upcoming Brew Talks GABF meetup in Denver, Colorado.

5:44 -- 44:30: Interview with Dan Kenary

44:30 -- 50:25: Furnari and Kendall discuss takeaways from the conversation with Kenary.