Crafty Brewers: Tales Behind Craft Beer

Hop up your spirits with a barrel of laughs as we close out 2024. Plus: a major announcement that you don’t want to miss! Brian, Katherine, and Cody get together via the internet to have some fun to close out the year, sharing reviews of local beers, making some major announcements, and looking ahead at what’s to come in 2025. Brian starts things off by sharing the huge news that the next episode of Crafty Brewers will feature Dovetail Brewing on January 2, 2025 — mark your calendars! Then, Cody plugs his science-heavy review of the 2024 lineup of Goose Island Bourbon County Brand Stout, which you can read on the Crafty Brewers website here: https://craftybrewerspod.com/2024-bourbon-county-brand-stout-review-first-impressions-goose-islands-newest-craft-beer-variants/ [https://craftybrewerspod.com/2024-bourbon-county-brand-stout-review-first-impressions-goose-islands-newest-craft-beer-variants/] Katherine describes her Peanut Butter Porter by Fort Myers Brewing Company and talks a bit about the beer scene in Florida, before Brian talks about Hop Butcher’s Minted Imperial Stout made with chocolate and Frango mint oil. Cody then plugs a VERY IMPORTANT listener survey that you should take if you’re ever listened to the show, which you can find at https://craftybrewerspod.com/survey [https://craftybrewerspod.com/survey] Then, stick around to hear what the crew is looking forward to in 2025, learn about their go-to drinks for the holidays, get a quick update on what Chris Valleau is brewing these days, and get the inside scoop on why we all have strong feelings about Taco Bell. You can learn more about Crafty Brewers on our official website, https://craftybrewerspod.com [https://craftybrewerspod.com] — and support the show by picking up our amazing merchandise [https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/]! —  Looking for podcasts to listen to during the holiday season while you’re waiting for Crafty Brewers to come back on January 2, 2025? Then check out this four-part series from Freakonomics Radio called “Is America Switching from Booze to Weed?” https://freakonomics.com/podcast-tag/is-america-switching-from-booze-to-weed/ [https://freakonomics.com/podcast-tag/is-america-switching-from-booze-to-weed/]  If you enjoyed this episode, then please tell at least one friend about the show! And if you’re a brewer or know any brewers who would like to share their story on the podcast, then email craftybrewerspod@gmail.com [craftybrewerspod@gmail.com]. We’re always happy to hear from you! Crafty Brewers is a production of Quantum Podcasts, LLC. Is your brewery or business looking to capture a loyal audience to drive business results with the power of podcasting? Then visit https://quantum-podcasts.com/ [https://quantum-podcasts.com/] to learn more. Our executive producer and editor is award-winning podcaster Cody Gough [https://www.linkedin.com/in/codygough/]. He insists that we tell you that in this episode, you’ll learn about: Crafty Brewers Podcast, dark beers, peanut butter porter, Fort Myers Brewing Company, adjunct-heavy stouts, remote production challenges, beer industry trends 2025, Florida ballot issues, alcohol industry, marijuana legalization, holiday beer pairings, Goose Island Bourbon County Brand Stout, peanut butter porter review, craft beer insights, beer and social media, tariffs on beer prices, beer style guidelines, Festival of Wood and Barrel-Aged Beer, Freakonomics Radio, small business challenges, craft beer community, cannabis industry economics, off-the-clock beer favorites, holiday ales, eggnog and brandy recipe, beer and food pairings, supporting local breweries, holiday season brews, and podcast humor.

Learn how BubbleHouse Brewing ensures they have “something for everyone” and the story behind the best pub game you’ve never heard of. John and April Miller, owners of BubbleHouse Brewing Company, discuss crafting a diverse beer portfolio, providing unique taproom experiences, and their journey from corporate life to brewing. They discuss the challenges and rewards of brewing clean, simple beers without relying on heavy adjuncts and the importance of community engagement by creating an inclusive taproom atmosphere. John, who is also BubbleHouse’s brewer, also shares his experience getting Level 1 and 2 Cicerone Certifications from College of DuPage’s Business of Craft Beer education program and explains why Skeleton Key Brewery’s Spare Keys incubator program was instrumental in making BubbleHouse what it is today. After the beer break, the Millers delve into specific beers including their Isle of Lyle Mexican Lager, 10 Second Hug Double Dry Hopped Hazy IPA, and Smoky Poofs Rye Smoked Porter, highlighting their balanced flavors and the brewing techniques that emphasize quality and authenticity. And stick around to hear about crokinole, the best pub game you’ve never heard of! You can find our amazing merchandise and learn more about Crafty Brewers on our official website, https://craftybrewerspod.com [https://craftybrewerspod.com]  About Bubblehouse Brewing Company: Having opened their doors in fall 2021, BubbleHouse prides itself on its welcoming community that offers something for everyone. Located at 2121 Ogden Ave., Unit A in Lisle, IL, you can learn more on their website at https://www.bubblehousebrewing.com/ [https://www.bubblehousebrewing.com/]  — If you enjoyed this episode, then please tell at least one friend about the show! And if you’re a brewer or know any brewers who would like to share their story on the podcast, then email craftybrewerspod@gmail.com [craftybrewerspod@gmail.com]. We’re always happy to hear from you! Crafty Brewers is a production of Quantum Podcasts, LLC. Is your brewery or business looking to capture a loyal audience to drive business results with the power of podcasting? Then visit https://quantum-podcasts.com/ [https://quantum-podcasts.com/] to learn more. Our executive producer and editor is award-winning podcaster Cody Gough [https://www.linkedin.com/in/codygough/]. He insists that we tell you that in this episode, you’ll learn about: craft beer, brewing techniques, craft brewing, inclusive taproom, crokinole, Lisle, craft beer creativity, experimental hazy IPAs, clean simple beers, brewing process, taste-testing, College of DuPage Business of Craft Beer program, Cicerone program, beer quality, beer authenticity, family-friendly brewery, pet-friendly brewery, non-beer drinkers, Canadian pub game, lactose in beer, dietary restrictions, beer pairings, brewing principles, brewing challenges, community engagement, seasonal beers, pub games, beer styles, beer flavor balance, beer brewing courses, and beer adjuncts.

Learn how Horse Thief Hollow became the most award-winning brewery on the south side of Chicago, having won 10 major awards (and counting). Horse Thief Hollow Brewing Co’s Jake Nelson (Head Brewer) and Adrian Morrison (Brewer and Sales Manager) discuss the fascinating legacy of Horse Thief Hollow Brewing in Chicago's historic Beverly neighborhood, exploring the origins of the brewery's name, its cultural significance, and why the Illinois militia had to run off horse thieves in the very early days of Chicago. They also share their humble beer origin stories, including Andrian’s rising through the ranks in order to get to where he is at Horse Thief Hollow. They also talk about what “cellar work” actually means when working in beer before they discuss how Horse Thief Hollow Brewing Co. has become the most award-winning brewery on Chicago’s south side, including a deep dive into how they overcame the challenge of brewing high-quality Pilsners consistently in order to come up with their award-winning Little Wing Pilsner.  After the beer break, they discuss Annexation, a West Coast IPA, including an explanation of what makes an IPA a West Coast IPA specifically and why West Coast IPAs are making a comeback. Jake also talks about when a beer is “done” and he doesn’t feel like he needs to keep changing a recipe. Then, they discuss Horse Thief’s Soul Train Sour Ale, which they insist Brian try, even though Brian is outspoken about the fact that he doesn’t normally like sours. Did he love it or not? You’ll have to listen to find out! Today’s Featured Merchandise: Celebrate the art of beer diversity with the "Taste the Grainbow" muscle tank. Featuring a colorful design of four unique beers, this tank is perfect for craft beer enthusiasts who embrace variety, available in multiple styles and colors! Every purchase you make directly supports the show's production and hosting costs. Find it here: https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/gals-grainbow-tank?_pos=1&_sid=fd3f273a5&_ss=r [https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/gals-grainbow-tank?_pos=1&_sid=fd3f273a5&_ss=r]  You can find other amazing merchandise [https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/] and learn more about Crafty Brewers on our official website, https://craftybrewerspod.com [https://craftybrewerspod.com]  About Horse Thief Hollow Brewing Co: Located in the Beverly neighborhood on Chicago’s South side, Horse Thief earned its 10th craft beer award in its 10th year of brewing: Little Wing Pilsner captured gold medals at the World Beer Cup and the Great American Beer Festival in 2023. Learn more on their website at https://horsethiefbrewing.com/ [https://horsethiefbrewing.com/]  — If you enjoyed this episode, then please tell at least one friend about the show! And if you’re a brewer or know any brewers who would like to share their story on the podcast, then email craftybrewerspod@gmail.com [craftybrewerspod@gmail.com]. We’re always happy to hear from you! You can also follow Crafty Brewers on Instagram at https://instagram.com/crafty_brewers_pod [https://instagram.com/crafty_brewers_pod]  Crafty Brewers is produced by award-winning podcaster Cody Gough [https://www.linkedin.com/in/codygough/]. He insists that we tell you that in this episode, you’ll learn about: Pilsner, West Coast IPA, East Coast IPA, Sour Beer, Milkshake IPA, Slushy Sour, Farmhouse Ales, Saison, Kolsch, Lager, craft beer, Chicago's South Side, Soul Train Sour Series, Mango Tahini, beer pairings, craft beer trends, German hops, brewing consistency, Lagering process, brewing techniques, cellar work, award-winning beer, beer SOPs, South Side beer market, brewing philosophy, sourcing beer ingredients, beer clarity, American malts, German malts, Tettnanger hops, beer fermentation, craft beer enthusiasts, Miller High Life, Allagash White, Pistachio brown ale, Brewing innovation, Beverly neighborhood, Illinois militia history, Chicago history, and horse thieves.

Learn how Burning Bush Brewery crafts its unique brews, including their spruce tip IPA named after a true story of “tree wrestling.”  Burning Bush Brewery’s Brent Raska, owner and brewer, and Scott McElhenney, head brewer, discuss their unique transition from meeting at church to brewing together, the surprising similarities between running a church parish and running a brewery, and the art of crafting kettle sours. They also delve into why they typically have about 12 of their own beers on tap, ranging from lagers to stouts to IPAs to seasonal brews, and how they became known for their sours and IPAs in particular. After the beer break, Brent and Scott discuss their signature beers, such as the fruit-forward Red Sea Raspberry Kettle Sour and the spruce-infused Tree Wrestler Spruce-Tip IPA. They explain the difference between a regular sour and a kettle sour and the difference between a regular and a hazy IPA. More importantly, Brent shares the unbelievable story of “tree wrestling” that inspired the Tree Wrestler Spruce-Tip IPA and how actual spruce tips are involved in its brewing process. Plus: the unique use of hops like Mosaic in creating distinct flavors, growing basil on-site to use in their beers, the science behind crafting Hazy IPAs with specific yeast strains for desired haziness and flavor profiles, and how to strike the right balance with additions like peanut butter, as experienced in their St. Peter Peanut Butter Porter. Today’s Featured Merchandise: Buy our merchandise that says “I just want beer flavored beer,” available in multiple styles and colors! Every purchase you make directly supports the show's production and hosting costs. Garment-dyed Heavyweight T-shirt: https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/beer-flavored-beer-garment-dyed-heavyweight-t-shirt-1 [https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/beer-flavored-beer-garment-dyed-heavyweight-t-shirt-1]  Long Sleeve T-Shirt: https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/beer-flavored-beer-long-sleeve-t-shirt-1?variant=44283749236976 [https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/beer-flavored-beer-long-sleeve-t-shirt-1?variant=44283749236976]  Premium Crewneck Sweatshirt: https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/beer-flavored-beer-premium-crewneck-sweatshirt?variant=44281814745328 [https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/beer-flavored-beer-premium-crewneck-sweatshirt?variant=44281814745328]  You can find other amazing merchandise [https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/] and learn more about Crafty Brewers on our official website, https://craftybrewerspod.com [https://craftybrewerspod.com]  About Burning Bush Brewery: Located in the North Center neighborhood of Chicago, their mission is to provide high-quality Craft Beer, generous hospitality, and to serve their neighborhood and the greater Chicago community. With 12 rotating taps, there are always a variety of styles available including IPAs, lagers, sours, stouts and seasonal and unique offerings like an apple ale, a spruce-tip IPA and an amber ale brewed with homegrown basil. Learn more on their website at https://www.burningbushbrewery.com/ [https://www.burningbushbrewery.com/]  — If you enjoyed this episode, then please tell at least one friend about the show! And if you’re a brewer or know any brewers who would like to share their story on the podcast, then email craftybrewerspod@gmail.com [craftybrewerspod@gmail.com]. We’re always happy to hear from you! You can also follow Crafty Brewers on Instagram at https://instagram.com/crafty_brewers_pod [https://instagram.com/crafty_brewers_pod]  Crafty Brewers is a production of Quantum Podcasts, LLC. Is your brewery or business looking to capture a loyal audience to drive business results with the power of podcasting? Then visit https://quantum-podcasts.com/ [https://quantum-podcasts.com/] to learn more. Our executive producer and editor is award-winning podcaster Cody Gough [https://www.linkedin.com/in/codygough/]. He insists that we tell you that in this episode, you’ll learn about: St. Peter peanut butter porter, Hazy IPAs, brewing techniques, spruce tips, spruce-infused beer, beer flavor balancing, peanut flour, powdered peanut butter, basil-infused amber ale, St. Basil Amber Ale, maple bacon imperial red ale, craft beer community, brewing innovation, home-grown basil, beer naming, India pale lagers, cold IPAs, brown IPA, growler sales, beer pairing, beer and food pairing, River Room event space, brewing equipment, fermentation, dry hopping, lactobacillus, Brettanomyces, and the brewing process.

Learn how Twisted Hippo recovered from a devastating fire and found a way to thrive while brewing their unique beers. Karl and Marilee Rutherford, co-founders and owners of Twisted Hippo, share the story of their humble beginnings from a homebrewing beer kit from Bed, Bath, and Beyond, to opening a brewery. They explain how they recovered from a devastating fire in 2022, after which the Chicago craft brewery community rallied around them to help them get back on their feet, and the innovative way they found a way to maintain a physical presence at District Brew Yards [https://districtbrewyards.com/]. After the beer break, Karl and Marilee delve into the brewing techniques and flavor profiles of their honey-infused cream ale and award-winning Golden Lasso beer and talk about honey as an adjunct in beer. They also discuss the importance of embracing individuality in brewing and the significance of water chemistry in beer production. Plus: a whimsical look at their mascot, Pinky, and insights into balancing innovation with financial sustainability. Today’s Featured Merchandise: Show off your Pride with our “Beer is for Everyone” merchandise, available in multiple styles and colors! Every purchase you make directly supports the show's production and hosting costs. Beer is for Everyone soft style tank: https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/beer-is-for-everyone-soft-style-tank [https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/beer-is-for-everyone-soft-style-tank]  Beer is for Everyone Uni-Sexy Heavyweight Tee: https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/beer-is-for-everyone-uni-sexy-tee [https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/beer-is-for-everyone-uni-sexy-tee]  Beer is for Everyone Uni-Sexy Soft Style Tee: https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/beer-is-for-everyone-uni-sexy-soft-tee [https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/products/beer-is-for-everyone-uni-sexy-soft-tee]  You can find other amazing merchandise [https://3b8877-3.myshopify.com/] and learn more about Crafty Brewers on our official website, https://craftybrewerspod.com [https://craftybrewerspod.com]  About Twisted Hippo: Funky brewpub with creative eats paired with house beers and oversized cans to-go. Now pouring at District Brew Yards: 417 N. Ashland Ave, Chicago IL. Learn more on their website at https://www.twistedhippo.com/ [https://www.twistedhippo.com/]  — If you enjoyed this episode, then please tell at least one friend about the show! And if you’re a brewer or know any brewers who would like to share their story on the podcast, then email craftybrewerspod@gmail.com [craftybrewerspod@gmail.com]. We’re always happy to hear from you! You can also follow Crafty Brewers on Instagram at https://instagram.com/crafty_brewers_pod [https://instagram.com/crafty_brewers_pod]  Crafty Brewers is a production of Quantum Podcasts, LLC. Is your brewery or business looking to capture a loyal audience to drive business results with the power of podcasting? Then visit https://quantum-podcasts.com/ [https://quantum-podcasts.com/] to learn more. Our executive producer and editor is award-winning podcaster Cody Gough [https://www.linkedin.com/in/codygough/]. He insists that we tell you that in this episode, you’ll learn about: Twisted Hippo Brewing, craft beer, brewing systems, beer pairings, Mr. Beer Kit, ADHD creativity, honey-infused cream ale, Golden Lasso beer, brewing equipment, water chemistry, brewpub, collaboration with District Brewery Yards, craft beer industry, Pinky mascot, resilience, financial sustainability, homebrew, beer innovation, unique beer styles, Belgian IPA, Old St. Augie's, California common, Bee’s Sleaze, roasted beets, Kolsch, electrical brewing elements, boiler system, direct fire kettle system, steam systems, Lake Michigan water, fermentation, hops, Pilsners, IPAs, buckwheat honey, ESB, food and beer pairings, bourbon, Malort, craft beer community, beer festivals, brewing challenges, and water in beer.