Beer In Front

Yeah… we’re talking about malt. This week I’m joined by Ron Silberstein from Admiral Maltings, and if you think malt is just the thing that shows up on an invoice… this one might change your mind. We get into:
🌾 Why malt is the backbone of beer
🍺 Craft malting & California-grown barley
🔥 Floor malting vs the big guys
🍻 Why lagers are having a moment Plus—I crack open Sunglider from Firestone Walker
👉 Bready, biscuity, super clean
👉 Easy crusher when the weather finally warms up Bottom line:
If you see Sun Glider… put it in the cart. 🎧 Listen now wher...

🎙️ Beer In Front – Episode 294 Craft Beer Concierge + Chicago Merger News

Dave is back with a packed episode featuring a deep dive into the evolving beer scene, a great conversation with the “Craft Beer Concierge,” and a couple of beers worth putting straight in the cart. 

What’s On Tap This EpisodeA major Chicago beer merger that could reshape the local sceneA conversation with Allo Gilinsky, aka the Craft Beer ConciergeBeer reviews featuring a Perennial saison and a classic Irish red from BegyleIndustry news, trends, and what’s next in craft beerAllo Gilinsky


Becom...

🍺 New Episode – Beer in Front 🎙️ Quick solo show this week (yes, I sound a little congested 😅), but we’ve got a LOT to cover. 🚨 Chicagoland Closures We’re up to six brewery closures in two months.
It’s a tough stretch for Illinois craft beer. If you’ve got a favorite spot — now’s the time to support them.
 🌎 Beer NewsBrewDog sold to Tilray for $40M (once valued near $2B 😳)Pickle beer collab: Grillo’s x PBRFirestone Walker dropping a dragon fruit sourRevolution expanding the Cold Time lineup🐟 Deep Dive: Ballast Point From a homebrew shop…
To a $1 BILLION sale…
To being sold for...

🍺 Guest Interview: Jerry Siote – Lone Tree Brewing Company
This week, Dave heads back to Colorado to talk with Lone Tree Brewing Company’s Jerry Siote. Founded: 2011
Locations: Lone Tree & Parker, Colorado
Recently Won: Gold Medal – Colorado Brewers Cup (Mexican Lager) 🔥 Highlights from the ConversationLone Tree’s journey from aviation & finance to brewingCelebrating 15 years and brewing their 3,000th batchWhy their Mexican Lager now accounts for nearly half of productionWinning multiple medals at the Great American Beer FestivalRefreshing their IPA lineup (and surviving customer feedback)The challenge of balancing beer vs. non-beer offeringsThe state of hazy IPA fatigue & the return of clea...

This week we’re doing something a little different… but don’t worry, there’s still beer involved. 🎙 Guest: Morgan Smith – CEO of Kalm With Kava. Dave sits down with Morgan Smith from Kalm With Kava to talk about kava — the traditional South Pacific root drink known for its calming, social effects. Kava doesn’t give you a “buzz” like alcohol or THC. Instead, it delivers a mellow, relaxed feeling that helps take the edge off without fogging your head. What We Covered:What kava is and how it’s been used for 3,000+ years in places like Fiji, Vanuatu, Tonga, and HawaiiHow kava diff...

Sometimes the beer in front of you really is the best one yet—and this week’s episode proves it. Dave heads back to Colorado to catch up with Justin Grant, co-owner of Goat Patch Brewing Company in Colorado Springs. Since opening in 2017, Goat Patch has built a reputation for balance: balanced beers, balanced business decisions, and deep roots in the community. From award-winning Scottish ales to hazy IPAs, lagers, and Italian pilsners, Goat Patch has something for just about every palate. Justin shares the origin story of Goat Patch, how the brewery got its name, and why “Home of Balanc...

🍺 Beer In Front — Episode 289 Wet February Begins, Brewery Closures, Zima Dreams & Barrel-Aged Beers Episode 289 kicks off with Dry January officially in the rearview mirror and Wet February underway. Host Dave Zalatoris reflects on dropping 10 pounds during January, the success of his non-drinking month, and a massive surge in YouTube growth—even without beer-heavy content. But it’s not all good news. Dave talks about troubling brewery closures in the Chicago area, urges listeners to support local breweries while they can, and dives headfirst into beer and beverage news from across the country. And yes… the quest to Get Dave a Zima is off...

🍻 Beer In Front – Episode 288 Guest: Kevin Waltermire, Co-Founder of Comma

Thanks to a listener assist, Episode 288 is stacked—from THC-infused non-alcoholic beer to industry news, Dry January reflections, and a pair of solid beer reviews to close things out. 🍺 🎙️ This Week’s Interview Dave is joined by Kevin Waltermire, co-founder of Comma, a THC-infused non-alcoholic beer brand built for people who love beer culture but want a different kind of buzz. What you’ll hear in the conversation:Why Comma focuses on “pauses” instead of quitting alcohol altogetherHow Comma differs from THC seltzers (spoiler: it’s actually brewed)The role of THC, CBD, and...

Data, Dollars, and the Business of Beer (feat. Matt Gacioch, Brewers Association)
Host: Dave Zalatoris
Network: Beer Media Group

Craft beer isn’t just passion projects and taproom vibes — it’s big business. On Episode 287 of Beer In Front, Dave digs into the numbers, trends, and realities shaping today’s beer industry with Matt Gacioch, staff economist at the Brewers Association. From rising costs and tighter margins to non-alcoholic growth and why January is brutal for breweries, this episode takes a clear-eyed look at where craft beer stands in 2026 — and where it’s headed.

W...

Episode 286 of Beer In Front covers a lot of ground, blending beer news, personal updates, product reviews, and a deeper look at the non-alcoholic beer category. Dave Zalatoris opens the show with a Dry January check-in, sharing progress so far—down 4.4 pounds thanks to more water, NA beers, and watching calories. While the scale is moving in the right direction, better sleep hasn’t followed yet, proving Dry January isn’t a cure-all, but it’s still paying off. The episode then dives into beer and beverage news from around the country. Highlights include Kishwaukee Brewing’s elderberry ale made with berri...

Dry January Doesn’t Mean Ditching Your Local Brewery Happy New Year! I kick off 2026 with a Dry January check-in and a reminder that taking a break from alcohol doesn’t mean abandoning your favorite breweries — especially during one of the toughest months of the year. I'll share smart, simple ways to support breweries without drinking, including buying merch and gift cards, ordering NA beers or hop waters, showing up for events, grabbing food, leaving reviews, and being the designated driver for friends. The episode also touches on the most unexpected beer news of the week: the Pop-Tarts Bowl, complete with b...

In the final episode of 2025, I'll go solo to recap a packed year for Beer In Front. From major beer news and industry trends to podcast milestones, festival highlights, and standout beers, this episode ties a big holiday bow on everything that made 2025 memorable. Plus, I'll crack open a couple of seasonal favorites and reflects on how beer content—and attention spans—continue to evolve.

          Featured Beers
Pollyanna Brewing – Fireside Gap (Winter IPA, 5.8%)
A darker, old-school West Coast-style IPA with a great malt-hop balance. Great Lakes Brewing – Christmas Ale (7.5%)
A holiday classic brewed with honey and spices—22...

Today’s guest is one of the true originals of American beer education — Marty Nachel. Marty is an award-winning author, longtime beer educator, and Certified Beer Judge who has spent more than 30 years helping people understand and appreciate beer. Marty has a new book out now titled The Beer Story Project available now for any beer lover on your holiday gift list. Marty brings a wealth of knowledge and a down-to-earth passion that makes beer accessible to everyone.

The Beer Story Project

American Craft Beer Hall Of Fame



Beco...

In Episode 282 of Beer in Front, I'll bring you a festive, gift-focused edition of the show—perfect for the beer lover on your holiday shopping list (even if that person is you). I'll also break down the latest beer and beverage industry news, highlight friends of the show doing great work, and taste through a pair of holiday beers to round out the episode.

🎁 Holiday Gift Ideas for Beer Lovers Dave spotlights a collection of beer-centric gifts from friends of the show—none of which benefit him directly (with one exception clearly noted). They’re great ways to support i...

This week on Beer In Front, I’m shining a spotlight on a style that refuses to die quietly: the Black IPA. Once a cult favorite, then a near-extinct curiosity, the Black IPA is suddenly popping up again in breweries across the country — and I couldn’t be happier to see its comeback. In this episode, we dig into where the style came from, why it faded away, and why it deserves a spot back in your regular rotation.
I'll have the fantastic Wookey Jack from Firestone Walker, and have local Illinois ones from Midwest Coast and Half Acre!
<...

In Episode 280, I'll chat with David Nilsen—award-winning author, Certified Cicerone®, educator, and one of the sharpest voices in beer media. We'll dig deep into:
The inspiration behind Final Gravity, David’s human-centered beer zineWhy beer and chocolate make such powerful (and surprising) pairing partnersThe origins of David’s passion for craft beerThe growing world of craft chocolateHow breweries are navigating today’s shifting beer industryDayton’s underrated and walkable beer sceneHoliday pairing tips that anyone can try at homeI'll also share Thanksgiving beer pairing tips, cover the week’s big beer news, and close the show with a live beer-and...

In Episode 279, Dave dives into the rise, fall, and lasting legacy of Anchor Brewing, one of the true pioneers of American craft beer. From its 19th-century roots to the steam beer that helped kickstart the modern craft movement, this episode looks at how Anchor shaped the industry — and why its story still hits so hard today.

Main Topics

The History of Anchor Brewing A full walkthrough of Anchor’s incredible journey, including:
Its founding during the California Gold RushThe near-collapse in the 1950s and 60sThe Fritz Maytag rescue that changed everythingHow Anchor Steam became a craf...

If you are of a certain age, Pete’s Wicked Ale brings back fond memories of the early days of craft beer. On this episode, I’ll dive into the meteoric rise and fall of one of the first superstar craft brands of the 80’s and 90’s. I’ll also have a FOBAB review and have a craft beer from Peru!

Beer Media Group 

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Beer Media Group

THC beverages are everywhere right now, but not everyone’s thrilled about it. This week on Beer In Front, I break down why the attorneys general are pushing back — and what it means for drinkers. I'll also have some great beers this week from Bruz and Sierra Nevada! 

Beer Media Group

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Beer Media Group

Fresh Wet-Hopped Episode Hosted by: Dave Zalatoris
Produced by: Beer In Front / Beer Media Group
Release Date: October 2025
Runtime: ~62 minutes

This week, I'll explore the world of fresh and wet-hopped beers — celebrating the seasonal release that marks one of craft beer’s most anticipated times of year. I'll talk to three standout breweries from Colorado, producing exceptional wet-hopped ales and discuss the nuances that separate fresh hops from traditional hop varieties.

Bruz Beers
FlyteCo Tower
Public Offering Brewing

Beer Media Group

The Festival Of Wood And Barrel Aged Beer is right around the corner. FOBAB will be held this year on November 7-8 at the Credit Union 1 Arena in Chicago. Each session will have over 300 beverages all aged in wood or wood barrels. I'll chat with Katie Carrier from the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild to get the details on the festival for 2025! 

Festival Of Wood And Barrel Aged Beer
Illinois Craft Brewers Guild

Beer Media Group



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No one wants to feel hungover after a night of alcohol! Last Call is a new product with natural ingredients that improves well being the following morning. I spoke to the founders of Last Call about their product. I tried it myself and noticed a difference and felt better than I should have! 

If you use the code inthecart you can save money and try it for yourself. 

Last Call

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Beer Media Group

The GABF is this weekend. I'll talk to the owners of Colorado's Bootstrap Brewing about their story, charitable work, and trying to add to their medal count as one of Colorado's most decorated breweries! 

Bootstrap Brewery
Great American Beef Festival

Beer Media Group




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Beer Media Group

Solo show this week, I'll have the news of the week plus some great beers from Alter, Sketchbook, and Revolution! 



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Beer Media Group

This week, I stopped by Haymarket Pub & Brewery in Chicago to hear their story. They’re hosting an Oktoberfest/Halfway to Sausagefest extravaganza this Saturday, the 27th. We’ll get the details on that, as well as talk about an amazing sandwich: The Riot!

Haymarket Pub & Brewery



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Beer Media Group

Comma is a new NA beer with THC, CBD, and Lion's Mane for when you need a little pause, but you don't want the alcohol hangover. They come in 3 delicious varieties and if you order now, you'll save!
I also had a great beer from Destihl in Illinois and even a Tequila review this week! 

Comma THC Beverages

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Beer Media Group

September is Craft Malt Month. On this episode, I’ll talk to Chris Schooley over at Troubadour Maltings to find out more about Craft Malt. I also talked to Shea Guillot from Koval Distillery about how they use local Midwest farmers for their great Whiskey!  

Craft Malt Month
Craft Maltsters Guild
Troubadour Maltings
Koval Distillery

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Beer Media Group

Millpond and Little Lager collaborated on Milklörd. Aged in Malört, this Helles is fantastic! I’ll have this, plus all the news of the week and a long-lost segment returns this week!  

Millpond Brewing
Little Lager  

Bruz Beers  
Beer Media Group

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Beer Media Group

Firestone Walker was kind enough to send over their new Mix Pack featuring 4 great IPA's, I'll have them all this week. That, plus all the news and details on the Oak Park Microbrew Review next Saturday the 16th! 

Firestone Walker Mix Pack
Oak Park Microbrew Review

Beer Media Group


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Beer Media Group

Illinois Brewing Magazine is a quarterly publication that features the finest in craft beer in our great state. Each issue is filled with everything you need to know about Illinois Breweries. The Summer 2025 issue is available now. I’ll also have offerings from Brothership Brewing and Old Irving Brewing this week.  

Illinois Brewing Magazine
Illinois Craft Brewers Guild
Brothership Brewing
Old Irving Brewing  

Beer Media Group

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Fighting a summer cold so quick show this week featuring two iconic Illinois Breweries. Revolution and Phase Three! 

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Beer Media Group

Two great beers this week, the iconic 90 Minute IPA from Dogfish Head and the fabulous Gay IPA from Marz Brewing in Chicago! All that and the unedited Lee Elia rant in honor of his passing on this edition of Beer In Front! 



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Beer Media Group

Solo show this week. I’ll provide all the news of the week plus have some beers from CraftHaus, Athletic, Phase Three, and Half Day Brewing.



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Beer Media Group

19 is the new 22. Or, 19.2 oz is the new bomber. The large format can known as the stovepipe is growing in popularity around craft beer and it’s not just the big players like New Belgium and Goose Island utilizing the format. Local Chicago breweries like Revolution, Half Acre and Maplewood have put their beers in the single serving can. I sat down with acclaimed writer Kate Bernot and we discussed the growing popularity of the Stovepipe. All that and more on this edition of Beer In Front.

Sightlines
Bluesky Feed

Five Corners Beverage Company is a local Chicago based company that has one of the most unique tasting beverages I’ve had. They are a husband-and-wife team making small batch products right here in the Midwest. I sampled their Salted Lemonade over at Bottles and Cans a few weeks ago and had to buy it on the spot. I’m so happy to welcome Benno Nelson the co-founder of Five Corners today.

Five Corners Beverage Company


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Beer Medi...