The DC Beer Show
The official podcast of DCBeer.com! Everything you need to know about the people, places, and brews that make the DMV America’s best beer scene, including the best local places for eats, brews, trivia, live music, and more! Learn about the latest trends in craft beer – from the beers, to the breweries, to the business – from the editors of DC Beer.
30 Years of Brewer's Alley
Join us as we explore the rich history and vibrant craft beer scene at Brewer’s Alley in Frederick, Maryland. From its building's historic roots dating back over 240 years to its modern craft-brewing innovations, this episode features conversations with brewer Karl Knoop and explores the legacy of a pioneering brewpub that’s shaped Maryland’s beer culture.
In this episode:
The historic significance of the Brewer’s Alley building and its role in Frederick’s storyThe evolution of craft beer styles over 30 years, including traditional styles like Kolsch and modern hazy IPAsHow Brewer’s Alley balances historic bre...Bear Branch: Malting in Maryland
Dive into the world of craft malt, regional ingredients, and sustainable agriculture as we chat with Brad Humbert, owner of Bear Branch Malt in Maryland. Discover how local grains and farming practices shape the beer landscape in the Mid-Atlantic.
Main Topics:
The journey of local and craft malting in MarylandBridging agriculture and brewing through regional ingredientsSustainability and farm-to-brew relationshipsChallenges and opportunities for grain and hop growers in the Mid-AtlanticUpcoming events and collaborations for craft malt month>In this episode:
Brad shares his background and the history of Bear Branch Malt, a...The Resilience of Murphy & Rude Malting
In this episode of the DC Beer Show, the hosts delve into the recent ups and downs Murphy & Rude Malting has faced, highlighting its journey through near-closure, innovative solutions, and its commitment to local agriculture. Jeff Bloem shares insights on how craft malting is evolving amidst climate challenges, industry camaraderie, and the future of purpose-grown grains.
Main Topics:
Murphy & Rude’s recent near-closure and subsequent revivalThe impact of climate change on barley farming and maltingThe importance of regional grains and heritage varieties in craft brewingIndustry camaraderie and healthy competition among maltersFuture visions: grain-focused facilities and purpose-grown cr...Kristi Griner on NA Beer, the Hazy Debate, and 20+ Years Atop the Mash Tun
After two decades in the brewhouse, Kristi Mathews Griner quit drinking and became, in her own words, an NA beer snob. She joins Jake, Brandy, and Jordan to argue that non-alcoholic beer has finally gotten good and to explain how brewers are achieving it with newer yeast strains, hotter mashes, and smaller batches.
Kristi started waiting tables at Hops Grill & Brewery in Alexandria in 2002 and worked her way into the brewhouse, eventually leading brewing operations at Capital City and serving as technical brewer at Beltway, where she brewed contract batches for Grimm and others. Along the way...
Recreating 18th Century Beers for America's 250th
Dive into a fascinating discussion with hosts and brewers exploring the rich history of American beer. From historic recipes to modern collaborations, this episode highlights the enduring spirit of brewing in the United States and the power of beer to connect communities and preserve tradition.
Key Topics:
The revival of 18th-century brewing recipes, including Martha Washington's rules for brewing and hand-measured ingredientsCollaboration between modern breweries like Dynasty, Mount Vernon, and Chilly Hollow to recreate historical beersThe significance of local ingredients and sourcing authentic regional barley varieties like six-row maltThe impact of historic hops such as Liberty...Wheatland Spring is an Oasis
Explore the intersection of farming, community, and craft beer with Bonnie and John from Wheatland Spring. This episode highlights their sustainable farming practices, innovative brewing, and the meaningful community events they host, emphasizing the importance of terroir and local support in beer production.
Main topics:
The farm's history and regenerative agricultural practicesThe philosophy behind estate brewing and terroir in beerThe annual Land Beer Fest and Oktoberfest celebrationsThe impact of small-scale maltsters on local brewingCommunity engagement and the future of Wheatland SpringIn this episode:
Bonnie and John share the background and mission of Wheatland...Bullpen Pilsner! Did you say Bullpen Pilsner? Yes, Bullpen Pilser
In this lively episode of the DC Beer Show, we highlight Atlas Brewing's recent gold medal win at the World Beer Cup for their Bullpen Pilsner. Join us as we explore the brewing process, innovation, and growth of Atlas across DC and Virginia, along with industry challenges and brewing tips.
Main Topics:
Here Comes Urban Garden Brewhouse!
Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of Eamoni Collier, founder and owner of Urban Garden Brewhouse, a pioneering Black-owned brewery in Washington DC. Discover how her passion merges ancient brewing traditions with modern craft, creating a space that’s about community, healing, and cultural storytelling.
In the heart of Washington DC, a trailblazing Black woman-owned brewery is finally opening its doors. Urban, innovative, and inspired by ancient traditions, Urban Garden Brewhouse isn't just creating fantastic, floral-infused beers; it's rewriting the story of community, healing, and cultural heritage through craft beverages. If you've ever wondered wh...
Tony Prebula of Saints Row Brewing
In this episode, Tony Prebula reflects on nearly a decade of running Saints Row, sharing insights into the challenges of small business ownership, community building, and the emotional journey of closing a beloved brewery and taproom. Join us for a heartfelt conversation about craft beer, family, and what’s next.
Tony’s journey from opening Saints Row in Rockville to relocating in GaithersburgThe importance of community, friendships, and local support in the craft beer industryThe challenges faced by small breweries during COVID-19 and economic shiftsBalancing family life with the demanding brewery businessThe creative process in developing innovative beers and...Third Hill Brewing Company
On this episode of the DC Beer Show, we dive into the stories behind innovative collaborations and the art of brewing with purpose.
Discover how Third Hill Brewery’s owner, Jason Sliter, and head brewer, Matt Cronin, are pushing boundaries with techniques like decoction mashing and smoked yeast reuse, creating beers that surprise even the most seasoned palates.
We break down their latest brew, There Might Be Sirens, a Helles with a twist—infused with subtle smoked character from a German helles yeast process borrowed from Silver Branch, proving that good innovation isn’t just about...
Craft Beer & Community Initiatives with Elinor Reina
Join us in this episode as we sit down with Elinor Reina from The Veil Brewing in Richmond. We delve into her journey managing taprooms, the importance of Safe Bars training, community engagement, and upcoming collaborations—plus, get the inside scoop on the Veil's anniversary celebrations.
In this episode:
From Maine with Love: Rob Tod of Allagash White
In this episode, Rob Tod shares the fascinating history of Allagash Brewing, from its humble beginnings to its status as a craft beer pioneer. We delve into the company's innovative brewing practices, barrel-aging adventures, and commitment to community and education. Whether you're a beer enthusiast or industry veteran, Rob's insights will inspire your own brewing journey.
Key Topics:
The origins of Allagash Brewing and its early challenges (200 years from Maine, 1995 founding)The impact of DC's craft beer scene on Allagash's growthBalancing bottle versus can: Rob's perspective on tasting differencesThe significance of barrel aging in creating complex...Reviving Tradition: Heirloom Corn in Craft Beer
In this episode, Jake, Mike, and Brandy chat with Matt Furda from Mayan Monkey Brewing, diving deep into the world of craft beer, particularly focusing on unique ingredients like heirloom corn.
The conversation kicks off with everyone's current beer selections, highlighting a variety of Mexican-style lagers. As the discussion unfolds, Matt shares insights into his brewing process, emphasizing the importance of local ingredients and traditional methods. He reveals his efforts to revive a nearly extinct corn variety, which he plans to use in future brews after growing it in his backyard, showcasing a commitment to both heritage a...
Exploring DC's Beer and Cocktail Scene with Jessica Sidman from Washingtonian
In this episode, we welcome Jessica Sidman, Food Editor at Washingtonian, to discuss the latest trends in the DC food and drink scene. They explore the importance of supporting local breweries, the challenges facing restaurants and bars, and the rise of neighborhood bars.
The conversation also touches on the significance of food trucks and the community's engagement with local establishments. Throughout the episode, the hosts share their favorite drinks and experiences, creating a lively and informative discussion about the evolving culinary landscape of DC.
Follow what's happening in the DC scene at DCBeer.com and @d...
Pohjala: Exploring the Depths of Baltic Porter in Estonia
In this episode of the DC Beer Show, Jake, Mike, and Brandy welcome guests Peeter Keek and Martin Vahtra from Pohjala Brewery in Estonia. They discuss the rich history of Baltic Porters, the brewery's production techniques, and the unique flavors achieved through barrel aging. The conversation also touches on the craft beer culture in Estonia, the challenges of educating consumers about craft beer, and the impact of tariffs on beer exports. The episode concludes with a celebration of Pohjala's seventh anniversary and an invitation for listeners to visit the brewery.
Thanks to our monthly supporters SARA S GEIST ...It's a Holiday Hostful!
The hosts discuss their current beer selections, upcoming events in the local beer community, and the beer of the month. They delve into industry news, including recent (failed) mergers and acquisitions, and explore the dynamics of local breweries and their community engagement. The conversation also touches on the future of craft beer, market trends, and the significance of Baltic Porter Day, with a special guest appearance planned.
Randy Mills of Burnish Beer Company
In this episode of the DC Beer Show, the hosts engage in conversation with Randy Mills from Burnish Brewing, discussing a range of topics, including unique beer choices, the brewing process, seasonal beers, and the importance of community support in the brewing industry. Randy shares insights about his brewing philosophy, the challenges of running a brewery, and the significance of collaboration in creating new beers. The conversation also explores regional differences in beer preferences and strategies for attracting foot traffic in a competitive market.
Dave Infante, Beer Journalist
Welcome back to The DC Beer Show! This episode brings some extra sparkle as our hosts sit down with special guest Dave Infante, the freshly crowned 2025 North American Guild of Beer Writers best business writing category winner.
Our hosts ditch their usual "What's in your glass?" opener in favor of a midday roundup of recent brews, like Dave Infante's nonalcoholic Hoplark hop water (scored from a rare local drop), and Brandy Holder's cute little Sierra Nevada craft lager—plus plenty of shoutouts to delicious pale ales and lagers from spots like Right Proper, Eebee's, and Lost Generation, se...
Blindhouse Beer Company of Roanoke
In this episode of the DC Beer Show, the hosts engage in a lively discussion about various craft beers, focusing on the unique offerings from Blindhouse Beer Company in Roanoke. Tyler Wert, the brewer, shares insights into the mixed-culture fermentation process, the importance of balancing acidity in beer, and the challenges of maintaining flavor consistency across batches.
The conversation also touches on the growing beer tourism in Roanoke, the influence of Virginia's wine industry on craft brewing, and the community's response to innovative beer styles.
Overall, the episode highlights the vibrant craft beer culture and th...
Wanderland: A New Maryland Craft Beverage Festival
In this episode of the DC Beer Show, the hosts discuss the upcoming Wanderland event organized by the Brewers Association of Maryland, emphasizing the importance of supporting local breweries and fostering a family-friendly environment. They examine the changing trends in craft beer consumption, the role of music and entertainment at events, and the legislative hurdles faced by Maryland breweries. The discussion also includes personal beer preferences and the excitement around local craft alcohol initiatives.
https://wanderlandmd.com
Snallygaster 2025 Preview
In this conversation, Greg Engert discusses the upcoming Snallygaster festival, its significance for local breweries, and the evolving landscape of import beers. He highlights the importance of local food sourcing, the training of veteran farmers, and the festival's role as a major fundraiser for Arcadia Farm. Engert also shares insights on the feedback from previous festivals, the diverse serving formats expected at Snallygaster, and the growing popularity of cider. The conversation touches on the challenges breweries face, especially during the summer, and the strategies employed to keep the festival fresh and engaging for attendees.
Thanks to our monthly...Cheers to Oktoberfest and Strong Women
Join us as we return from our summer break with Episode 216 of the DC Beer Show! We're live from Casa de Brandy, diving into the world of craft beer with a special focus on Oktoberfest and the inspiring women in the brewing community.
Highlights:
Beer Tasting: Jake, Brandy, and the team share their current favorites, including a double dry hop pilsner and a Vienna lager.
Spotlight on Women: Celebrating gender equity in brewing, with a shoutout to Jasmine Dill of Liquid Intrusion and her ongoing health journey.
Upcoming Events: Get ready fo...
Inside Ardent: Scaling Up, Innovation, and Community at Richmond’s Craft Beer Hub
Welcome back to The DC Beer Show, your hub for all things craft beer across DC, Maryland, and Virginia! This episode, we welcome Tasha Dixon from Ardent Craft Ales in Richmond, Virginia, for a lively conversation packed with brewing insights, local flavor, and community celebrations.
The show kicks off with the crew sharing what’s in their glasses—expect shout-outs to Trillium’s foeder-aged lager, Ardent’s Bohemian Pilsner and IPA 14, and a juicy Kolsch from Bearchase.
Tasha dives into Ardent’s brewing philosophy, revealing the story behind their flagship IPA 14 (it’s all about that 14th, al...
Flowable Hop Products? Shana Solarte Explains!
Welcome back to The DC Beer Show, your hop-forward source for all things craft beer in the DMV! This episode finds our dynamic crew—Jake, Mike, Brandy, and Jordan—diving headfirst into the fascinating world of hops and modern brewing with special guest Shana Solarte, Marketing Communications Manager at John I. Haas.
Kicking off with the usual “what’s in your glass?” roundtable, the hosts compare notes on a fresh selection of IPAs (with more than one nod to Other Half), a Peabody Heights pilsner, and shout-outs to local beer reps. Brandy brings a little Cinco de Mayo energ...
14 Years of DC Brau
Pour yourself a crispy lager and settle in for a festive episode of The DC Beer Show! This week, hosts Michael Stein and Jordan Harvey raise a glass to 14 years of DC Brau with special guests Brandon Skall (CEO and cofounder) and Alex Spencer (head brewer). The convo kicks off with springtime vibes—think Star Wars Day, Cinco de Mayo, and the promise of patio beers—before diving headlong into DC Brau’s big news: Dueling Grounds Vienna Lager has officially joined their flagship lineup.
Brandon and Alex give us the behind-the-scenes scoop: Dueling Grounds is malty, bready...
Henceforth...we shall drink ESB!
Let's dive into a beer-filled adventure with guests Ben Mullet and Michael Spinello, co-founders of DC's newest brewery, Henceforth. The episode kicks off with the usual friendly banter about what everyone is sipping, featuring an impressive lineup of pints from rich ESBs to crisp pilsners.
Michael and Ben reveal the inspirations behind Henceforth, sharing their journey from ideation to near opening at their unique space on H Street. They discuss the innovative concept of creating a cozy brewpub atmosphere that feels more like a living room than a warehouse, aiming to bring refreshing change to the local...
Beer and Baseball with Emily Brown
Mike, Brandy, and Jake Berg are joined by esteemed local industry god Emily Brown, and Jordan Harvey provides an update on a cool new collab, all in this episode of The DC Beer Show.
We kick things off with Brandy and Jake's thrilling escapade to Nationals Park for media day, where the lineup of beers for the upcoming baseball season is overflowing with local flavor and they met the legendary Ryan Zimmerman, who was celebrating the Number 11 Kölsch from Lost Barrel, one of the many local drafts available this season.
Next, we dive deep w...
Celebrating Women in Brewing
Jacob Berg, Brandy Holder, and Michael Stein are here to celebrate the incredible women making waves in the brewing industry. We’re thrilled to have Anne Choe of Lost Generation join us to discuss her craft brewing journey and the impact of community engagement.
Thanks to a fortuitous grant from DC, Anne shares her excitement about the brewery’s plans to expand distribution and gives us the inside scoop on some new brews hitting their taps soon. Spoiler alert: A West Coast Pilsner and a German-style Bock are in the lineup!
The episode also dives into...
Vine Street Brewing in Kansas City
Today on The DC Beer Show, Jake and Brandy keep the good brews flowing. First off, Brandy's fresh from a trip to Ardent Craft in Richmond, singing praises of their alt beer. Jacob joins in the cheer, holding a pint of Wheatland Spring's Common Grain—a tipple toasting women in the brewery world, like the incredible Bonnie.
This week, we're catching up on the pulse of the March beer scene, full of exciting events like the Women's Panels at Lost Generation and Other Half, celebrating women with a blend of pizza, craft suds, and… shenanigans, obviously! March bein...
Black Beauty Brewing Stays True
Welcome back to the DC Beer Show, where Jake, Mike, and Brandy gather for an exciting episode featuring our special guest, Sheldon Goins of Black Beauty Brewing. As the weather in D.C. toggles annoyingly between porter and wit beer seasons, the crew navigates the cozy, enclosed metrobar patio to pour up some phenomenal black-owned breweries for a great cause.
Brandy kickstarts the chatter with fond reviews of Port City's Robust Porter, while Mike forecasts local beer temperatures like a pro, promising a weekend of camaraderie and craft joys despite no snow accumulation!
This episode...
Lyon Hall: A Bit of Belgium in Virginia
Welcome back to The DC Beer Show! In this episode, our hosts Jacob, Jordan, Michael, and Brandy explore the freshest brews and upcoming craft beer events around the D.C. metro area.
The spotlight is on Alyssa Hackbarth, Beer and Marketing Director for Lyon Hall in Arlington. She talks about reviving Lyon Hall’s beer dinner series, including the much-anticipated Black Brewers Beer Dinner on February 18th, featuring Soul Mega, Liquid Intrusion, and Bitter Fruit Brewing. Alyssa’s dedication to maintaining a balanced mix of Belgian staples and local favorites shines through, as does her knack for cura...
The first DC Beer Show of 2025!
Welcome back to The DC Beer Show, where our hosts are ringing in 2025 with frothy excitement and a lineup you won’t want to miss. This episode is jam-packed with news, events, and brews that are bound to tickle your taste buds.
First off, Jake introduces our newly launched “Beer of the Month” collaboration with The Brew Shop in Arlington. Kicking things off in style, we spotlight Sojourn Fermentory's "Midnight Dark Lager," a Czech-inspired gem chosen by Michael Stein and notable for its complexity.
We're not just about the booze, though! For those participating in Dry...
The 2024 Beer In Review with Phil Runco
Welcome back to the DC Beer Show! In this episode, our hosts Mike, Brandy, and Jake dive deep into the heart of the DC craft beer scene with an engaging conversation and a touching farewell to a local brewery. The gang kicks things off with their beverages of choice—Brandy's savoring some leftover Prosecco, Michael is classily sipping on Schönramer Hell, and Jacob is enjoying a pre-Prohibition lager from Lost Generation.
The episode takes an emotional turn as the hosts lament the closing of Hellbender Brewing Company, a neighborhood staple that's been a haven for beer lov...
Flights Across The Country with Joel Geier
Welcome back to The DC Beer Show! This week, our hosts Michael Stein, Jacob Berg, and Brandy Holder take you on a flavorful journey with brewery aficionado Joel Geier. Renowned for his extensive "brewery travels," Joel shares his adventures and insights from visiting a staggering 1,367 breweries across all 50 states, and yes, that includes our very own Washington D.C.!
Joel's new book, "Flights Across America" will be out December 17 and is available for pre-order now.
Joel kicks off by reminiscing about his early love for craft beer, sparked by his father’s influence and further ig...
Drinkin' It Up In Hagerstown with Thick-N-Thin
Welcome back to The DC Beer Show! Today, our hosts dive into the vibrant Hagerstown beer scene with special insights from Derek Siewert and Jake Beamer of Thick-N-Thin Brewing.
The episode kicks off with our hosts sharing their current beer choices—Jordan Harvey is savoring the hop-loaded "Homecoming Volume 2" from Harvey Wilder and Third Hill, Brandy Holder is enjoying a robust porter from Dynasty, and Jacob Berg has just picked up a crisp Lakeview Lager from Hamburg Brewing Company in New York.
We then express our deep gratitude for Veterans Day, acknowledging the sacrifices made by...
Importing Beer: Live! at Snallygaster
Welcome back to The DC Beer Show, your go-to source for everything craft beer in the DC area! In this enlightening episode, our host, Michael Stein, is joined by an illustrious panel featuring Christian Gregory, John Sten, Justin Hawke, and Ryan Dorosky, recorded live at Snallygaster 2024.
Together, they navigate the intricate web of beer importing, exporting, and the evolving craft beer landscape. Justin Hawke dives straight into the heart of brewing, blending California innovation with German natural techniques and British real ale traditions. The result? Delightfully sessionable beers with classic styles and natural carbonation, perfect for any o...
Live! at Snally 2024 with Great Breweries
This very special episode of The DC Beer Show was recorded LIVE at Snallygaster 2024 and is hosted by Andy MacWilliams, DC Beer Member and namesake of DC Beer's "Andy Award."
Andy leads a panel of outstanding brewery owners and professionals, including:
Adam Goodwin, Founder and Head Brewer at Charles Towne Fermentory in Charleston, South Carolina.Jeff Cozzens, Co-Founder of Schilling Beer Company in Littleton, New Hampshire.Frank Zagami, Co-founder and Co-owner of Deciduous Brewing Company in New Market, New Hampshire.Dan Modica, Sales Director at Chicago's Dovetail Brewery in Chicago, Illinois.Jeramy Biggie, Co-founder and Co-owner...Upweller with Josh & Jenna Chapman
Welcome back to The DC Beer Show! Our lively hosts Michael Stein, Brandy Holder, and Jacob Berg are joined by special guests Josh and Jenna Chapman of Upweller for a flavorful and fascinating episode.
Kicking things off, Michael sips on Plank beer Dunkle Weitzenbach, Brandy delights in a medley of 838 Irish stout, Proper IPA, and service Hellas Lager from Wheatland Spring, while Jacob explores Bright Side, an American style lager that might make it to Snally!
In this episode, we dive deep into the world of Upweller and their innovative approach to brewing. Josh Chapman...
Silver Branch, Freigeist, and More!
Welcome back to another deliciously engaging episode of The DC Beer Show! Join your hosts Jacob Berg and Brandy Holder as they dive deep into the world of craft beer, joined by an all-star lineup of guests: Sebastian Sauer, Brett Robison, Christian Layke, and Chris Bonnell!
Today's episode kicks off with a quick rundown of Oktoberfest events. Then Jake and Brandy sit down with the guys from Silver Branch Brewing Company to talk about their evolution into a hospitality brand specializing in beer and pizza. Silver Branch is raising money to open a new location in Rockville...
The Snallygaster Preview Episode!
Welcome back to The DC Beer Show, where hosts Mike Stein, Brandy Holder, and Jake Berg, along with their special guest Greg Engert, give you the ultimate preview of the highly anticipated Snallygaster beer festival in this exciting episode!
We start with a tantalizing overview of what’s brewing for this year's Snallygaster. This year’s fest promises to feature a unique mix of international beers that aren’t easily found locally, making it a huge draw for beer enthusiasts.
Jake Berg points out that Snallygaster brings diverse beer selections and supports a good cause: fundra...
