Random Beer Thoughts: May 2017

Big news in Massachusetts beer, the state has started an alcohol task force to address some of the archaic laws in the state. One of the first changes involves the growler laws, you can read summaries here and here. Basically breweries are now allowed to fill unmarked growlers in addition to ones with their logo. This isn’t a perfect solution, I’m sure many breweries will opt out, and there is concern from brewers about branding and marketing. Still, for those of us with piles of growlers in a closet it’s nice to know that we can visit a new brewery without adding to the collection.

Growlers

One of the most discussed beer stories of the last month has been the sale of Wicked Weed Brewing to AB-InBev. The announcement was met by the usual mix of emotions from outrage to apathy. Afterwards a number of breweries withdrew their commitments to Wicked Weed’s annual Funkfest. In it’s place Night Shift and Springdale are teaming up to host a celebration of sour and funky beers in MA.

On the week of Memorial Day it is important to remember the people who are serving and have served on the military. The Boston Herald has the story behind the Black Ale Project, where a rotating group of breweries are making dark beers and donating the proceeds to charities that provide assistance to veterans. I’ve had the Black Ale Project beers from Medusa Brewing and True West and enjoyed both, looking forward to trying the release from Castle Island.

The Mass Brew Brothers have a summary of the women who play a pivotal role in Massachusetts beer. While there is still too much sexism in the beer community (any amount is too much), it is nice to see that the ridiculous notion that beer is predominantly a drink for men is starting to disappear.

Alex Weaver at Hop Culture has some interesting ideas on what is next for the American IPA style.

Dave Patterson at Maine Today has an interesting history on the origins of Geary’s Brewing.

Design to Drink has a conversation with Kelsey Roth of Exhibit A Brewing on their logos and branding.

I really enjoyed this interview with Hill Farmstead founder Shaun Hill. I especially agree with his assessment that the future of craft beer is local focused, with brewers making high quality small batches that are sold almost entirely from the brewery.

Hop Culture did a series of beer tour itineraries for a number of cities. Here are the tours of Boston and Portland, ME.

Trillium announced plans for a huge new brewery and restaurant in the Seaport. I imagine this will immediately become a major destination for beer fans.

Congratulations to Bone-Up Brewing, now celebrating their one-year anniversary!

Leave a comment