Beverage Chronicles

Beverage Chronicles America's Macro Beer Debate, Brand Psychology, and the Ancient History of the Pub This episode of Beverage Chronicles questions the reputation of American macro beer, from price and ingredients to forever chemicals and craftwashing, before Leslie Jespersen explains how brands claim real estate in consumers' minds and historian Rachel Binkowski traces the pub's origins from ancient Mesopotamia to the modern taproom. Macro Beer's Complicated Reputation Gary Monterosso opens Beverage Chronicles with a look at America's complicated relationship with beer, from ballpark coolers to backyard tailgates. He names the familiar macro brands, Budweiser, Coors, Miller, Pabst, and Michelob, and...

Beverage Chronicles America's Macro Beer Debate, Brand Psychology, and the Ancient History of the Pub This episode of Beverage Chronicles questions the reputation of American macro beer, from price and ingredients to forever chemicals and craftwashing, before Leslie Jespersen explains how brands claim real estate in consumers' minds and historian Rachel Binkowski traces the pub's origins from ancient Mesopotamia to the modern taproom. Macro Beer's Complicated Reputation Gary Monterosso opens Beverage Chronicles with a look at America's complicated relationship with beer, from ballpark coolers to backyard tailgates. He names the familiar macro brands, Budweiser, Coors, Miller, Pabst, and Michelob, and...

Beverage Chronicles Health Myths in Your Glass, Allagash White's Legacy, and the Great Oktoberfest Showdown Title: Oktoberfest Beer Surprises, Beverage Health Myths, and the Power of Storytelling Summary: This episode of Beverage Chronicles explores several sides of the beverage world, from the health claims surrounding alcoholic drinks to the evolution of craft beer and the importance of public relations. Katie Johnson reviews Allagash White, the award-winning Belgian-style witbier that helped change perceptions of hazy, unfiltered beer. Michelle Lam explains why compelling storytelling is essential to building consumer engagement in the age of AI. Gary Monterosso wraps up the episode with...

Beverage Chronicles Savoring the Season: Beer Traditions, Fall Pairings, and Better Bottled Water Short summary This episode of Beverage Chronicles explores how seasonal beers reflect changing weather, ingredients, traditions, and food occasions—from refreshing spring and summer pours to richer autumn ales and winter stouts. Chef Christina Martin shares a savory fall cider pairing built around roasted squash, apples, grains, and maple-mustard dressing, while Rachel Benkowski examines beer-drinking rituals from around the world. The episode closes with a closer look at bottled water sourcing, flavor, and packaging. Seasonal Beer Guide, Fall Apple Cider Pairings, and Beer Rituals Around the World Ga...

Beverage Chronicles Savoring the Season: Beer Traditions, Fall Pairings, and Better Bottled Water Short summary This episode of Beverage Chronicles explores how seasonal beers reflect changing weather, ingredients, traditions, and food occasions—from refreshing spring and summer pours to richer autumn ales and winter stouts. Chef Christina Martin shares a savory fall cider pairing built around roasted squash, apples, grains, and maple-mustard dressing, while Rachel Benkowski examines beer-drinking rituals from around the world. The episode closes with a closer look at bottled water sourcing, flavor, and packaging. Seasonal Beer Guide, Fall Apple Cider Pairings, and Beer Rituals Around the World Ga...

Beverage Chronicles Brown Ale Basics, Champlain Valley Wines, and Morning Coffee with Kyle Mozden Gary Monterosso makes the case for brown ale as a gentle entry point to darker beer and looks at when to drink coffee. Robin Shreeves talks with Kyle Mozden, director of winemaking at Rolling Hills Estate Winery, about cold-hardy grapes and building a new wine region in New York's Champlain Valley. A Brown Ale Gateway to Dark Beer Gary Monterosso opens the program with a case for brown ale, aimed at listeners who like the comfort of dark beer but are not ready for a porter...

Beverage Chronicles New Beverage Launches, a Fresh Contributor, and Wine Made for Real Palates with Erin Redden Title: New Products, New Voices and Wine Made Welcoming We discuss a range of recent nonalcoholic launches, from hydration and sports-drink innovations to energy mocktails, protein shakes, craft sodas, cold brew and better-for-you beverage options. Contributor Jessica Gonzalez interviews ECR Vintners founder Erin Carroll Reddan about her small-batch California wines, approachable wine education and hospitality-focused tasting events. The program closes with a community-minded announcement: Denny’s Heroes is seeking nominations for local educators, caregivers, first responders, volunteers and other hometown difference-makers.. Gary Monterosso ru...

Beverage Chronicles Craft Beer's Loyalty Gap, Wine Value Myths, Brand Consistency, and NFL Beer Price Shock Gary Monterosso reviews new survey data on craft beer loyalty, wine expert John Mahoney answers listener questions on pricey bottles and summer whites, branding contributor Leslie Jespersen makes the case for consistency over novelty, and Monterosso closes with a look at soaring beer prices at NFL stadiums. Craft Beer's Loyal Fans Versus A Shrinking Audience Gary Monterosso opens the show with new numbers from the Brewers Association's Harris Poll consumer survey, which paints a mixed picture for craft beer. He reports that eighty five...

Beverage Chronicles Inside Oakwell Beer Spa's Craft Beer Taproom and Hydrotherapy Suites with Jessica French and Damien Zouaoui Gary Monterosso runs through the latest sales rankings across seltzer, energy drinks, craft beer and ready-to-drink cocktails before Katie Johnson sits down with Oakwell Beer Spa co-founders Jessica French and Damien Zouaoui, who explain how a rainy day in Poland turned into a Denver taproom-and-spa concept now expanding nationwide through franchising. A Rundown of Recent Beverage Sales Gary Monterosso opens the show with a rundown of recent beverage sales figures covering data through roughly the end of June. In the non-flavored sparkling...

Pumpkin Beer, Frost-Damaged Vineyards & America’s Drinking Habits This episode of Beverage Chronicles explores the arrival of pumpkin beer season, including Elysian Brewing’s long history with the style and its pumpkin variety pack. Wine critic Robin Shreves then discusses the impact of April’s devastating frost on Mid-Atlantic vineyards with Auburn Road Vineyards’ Scott Donini, who explains how winemakers are adapting to reduced crops. The episode closes with a look at per-capita alcohol consumption by state, with New Hampshire ranking first and Utah last.

Title: Snallygaster 2026: Great Beer, Big Flavor, and a Purpose Beverage Chronicles explores the FDA’s push for clearer caffeine labeling before Katie Johnson talks with Greg Engert about Snallygaster, Washington, D.C.’s massive beer festival. The October 10 event brings hundreds of beers, international brewers, music, family activities, and support for sustainable-food nonprofit Arcadia. From Caffeine Warnings to Snallygaster: Craft Beer, Community and a Festival Built to Give Back Caffeine Labeling and Consumer Awareness Gary opens the episode with a short discussion of caffeine labeling, saying caffeine appears in coffee, energy drinks, pre-workout products and even snacks. He explains that the...

How Breweries, Food Pairings, Storytelling, and Soda Innovation Are Reshaping Beverage Culture

Craft Beer’s Midyear Reality: IPA Still Carries the Market Contraction may be easing: Craft volume fell about 4%, yet a majority of responding breweries said they are growing—an improvement from last year’s survey. IPA is doing the heavy lifting: Every top-30 craft brand gaining in grocery, mass retail, and convenience was an IPA, led by brands such as Voodoo Ranger, Hazy Little Thing, and Elysian Spacedust. Diversification remains urgent: Draft can give lagers, wheat beers, and other non-IPA styles more room to perform, but the category’s dependence on IPA is increasingly risky amid stiff competition from RTD beverage

Lost Beers, Chilled Reds, and the Homebrewers Who Built Craft Beer Long-lost beers are making a comeback, with breweries reviving classic brands and recipes to tap into nostalgia and reconnect with drinkers. Chilled red wine is becoming a summer trend, especially for light-bodied styles like Pinot Noir, Gamay, and Cabernet Franc served slightly cooler than traditional room temperature. Homebrewers played a major role in building American craft beer, helping shape experimentation, style diversity, and the rise of many iconic breweries.

Title: Debunking Whiskey Myths, Tracing Pilsner’s Origins, and Why PR Still Matters Description We explain the differences between single malt, blended malt, and blended Scotch, dispelling common whiskey misconceptions and helping listeners choose based on taste rather than labels. The fascinating history of the Pilsner is traced, from its revolutionary debut in 1842 to becoming the world's most influential beer style. The enduring appeal of the Old Fashioned is explored, including its origins, evolution, and why the choice of whiskey makes all the difference.

Title: Do Beer Ratings Really Matter? Beer ratings can help drinkers discover new breweries and styles, but they're only opinions—not facts—and personal taste should always come first. Contributors Josh Seaberg and Rachel Benkowski offer segments on the classic Pegu Club cocktail and why the right beer glassware dramatically enhances aroma, flavor, and the overall drinking experience. Bartenders are using salt and saline solution to balance cocktails, brighten flavors, and elevate drinks without making them taste salty. 

TITLE: Foam, Pairings and Fresh Pours Beer foam isn’t waste — it’s a sign of proper brewing, protects aroma, and improves texture Pizza-and-beer harmony comes from yeast, carbonation, and choosing the right style for the slice New RTDs, wine tips, and Leslie Jesperson’s BFD TV round out this week’s Beverage Chronicles highlights

Long Island Iced Tea Returns as a Cocktail Classic We explore the competing origin stories of the Long Island Iced Tea and explain why the cocktail is enjoying a modern revival. Learn how beer was brewed before refrigeration, why lagers were stored in caves, and how seasonal brewing shaped beer history. Flavorful mid-strength beers are growing in popularity as craft breweries respond to consumers seeking moderation without sacrificing taste. Six-Paragraph Summary A Cocktail With Two Origin Stories Gary Monteroso opens the episode with a feature on the Long Island Iced Tea, presenting it as a cocktail that appears harmless but...

Warm Weather Wines and the Craft Spirit of the Lake Erie Ale Trail Warm Weather Wines for Easy Summer Drinking The episode opens with wine contributor John Mahoney offering warm-weather wine recommendations designed for dinners, restaurant outings, and casual evenings with friends. He highlights refreshing whites such as Albariño, Grüner Veltliner, and Pinot Gris, noting their acidity, brightness, and ability to work well in hot conditions. He also recommends rosé, Beaujolais, and sparkling wines such as Cava as chilled choices that can complement a range of summer meals. A Beverage Destination Along Lake Erie Gary Monteroso then introduces an...

Dive Bar Soul, Bottle Science, and the Pickle Beer Surprise The Humble Doorway Into Dive Bar Culture The episode opens with a sponsor message for Buna Connection Brewing Company before host Gary Montaroso introduces Beverage Chronicles as a relaxed conversation about the stories behind what people drink. The main feature begins by defining dive bars as casual, unpretentious places with simple drinks, low prices, local clientele, and a worn-in atmosphere that often includes music, karaoke, or pool tables. Why Authenticity Matters More Than Polish The host explores the dive bar as a cultural symbol of authenticity. Rather than focusing on...

From Speakeasies to Canned Cocktails: How America's Drinking Culture Evolved Prohibition failed to stop Americans from drinking, but it sparked the rise of speakeasies, bootlegging, and the cocktail culture we still enjoy today. The aftertaste of a beverage can significantly influence enjoyment, with bitterness affecting people differently based on genetics and taste perception. Modern canned cocktails combine convenience with quality, using refined spirits and craft-inspired recipes to deliver bar-quality drinks anywhere.

Beverage Chronicles with Gary Monterosso Root Beer, Vodka, and the Unexpected Science in Your Glass This episode of Beverage Chronicles explores the nostalgic origins of root beer, from its sassafras‑root beginnings to its clever rebranding by Charles Hires in the 1870s. It then shifts to the rise of flavored vodka and how it reshaped modern drinking culture, before closing with a surprising look at how everyday fruit juice can naturally ferment into low‑alcohol beverages. Together, the segments highlight how tradition, innovation, and chemistry all shape what we drink.

Beer Flights, Coffee Trends and Beverage Brand PR - Learn the best way to enjoy a beer flight by tasting from lighter to heavier styles. - Discover how public relations helps beverage brands build trust, visibility, and sales opportunities. - Get the latest on Starbucks Rewards changes and new research linking coffee consumption to lower dementia risk.

Title: Schlitz, Session IPAs and Starbucks Summer Strategy Schlitz beer rose from Milwaukee brewing roots to become the world’s top-selling lager before collapsing in the 1970s after cost-cutting changes damaged quality and consumer trust. Founders All Day IPA helped redefine the “session IPA” category by offering full hop character with lower alcohol, making craft beer more approachable and widely drinkable. Starbucks’ new summer lineup uses colorful, layered drinks and experiential marketing to create premium, Instagram-ready beverages aimed at making customers feel the experience is worth the price.

Guinness Cocktails, Gin Trends, and the Rise of Finland’s Long Drink Guinness is finding new life as a cocktail ingredient in drinks like the Espresso Stout Martini, Black Velvet, and Top Hat. We highlight gin cocktails, including the lighter and refreshing Gin Sonic. Beverage Chronicles visits Atlantic City to explore Finland’s famous Long Drink and its growing popularity in the United States.

Title: Beer Names, Wild Fermentation, and the Strangest Lager Yet Breweries are simplifying beer style names to attract casual drinkers while trying to avoid losing the identity and uniqueness that built craft beer culture. Beer historian Rachel Benkowski explores the history and cultural importance of Belgian lambic, a spontaneously fermented beer deeply tied to place, patience, and tradition. A new study compared health outcomes among beer, wine, and spirits drinkers, while Columbia Sportswear grabbed headlines with a bizarre “bear scat infused” promotional beer.

Smuggling Nun: Reviving Ireland's Bootleg Poitin Legacy Poitin, Ireland's ancient unaged barley spirit, was illegally bootlegged for 300+ years until 1997, predating whiskey and inspiring global moonshine culture. Maura Clare learned a secretive 20th-century recipe with molasses and beet sugar from a retired bootlegger, blending whiskey warmth, tequila aroma, gin complexity, and rum sweetness at 45% ABV. Named after her nun cousin who smuggled it in a holy water bottle, the Gothic-arch bottle ships to 40 states via smugglingnun.com, perfect for cocktails like Celtic sours or neat sips.

Title: Why You Might Not Actually Hate IPAs Episode Description: Many IPA critics just haven’t found the right style—flavors vary widely and bad storage can ruin the experience. Modern IPAs are more balanced and approachable than the overly bitter versions of the past. Freshness, proper storage, and open-minded tasting can completely change your perception of the style. Here is the primary reasoning regarding the questioning about DAI: Over the next few weeks and months, there may be a restructuring of the show distribution process. It is complex, but we may be coupling with a company that will handle all...

From Ales to IPAs: Exploring Beer Styles, History, and Tradition We break down the differences between ales and lagers, explore the evolution of hops from ancient brewing to modern IPAs, and dive into the tradition of British cask ale. It highlights how ingredients, techniques, and culture shape the diverse flavors and experiences found in beer.

Title: From Alcohol Metabolism to Beverage Culture and Health Trends Alcohol affects the body quickly, with impacts on brain and body functions within minutes and peak effects within an hour, depending on factors like metabolism, food intake, and drink strength. Beyond biology, beverages like wine have historically fostered social bonding and civilization. Modern beverage choices are also shaped by branding and health perceptions, while emerging research suggests coffee may contain compounds with potential benefits for managing conditions like type 2 diabetes

Gluten-Free Beer: How It’s Made and Why It’s Booming Gluten-free beer avoids barley and wheat, using alternative grains like millet, rice, and buckwheat, while gluten-reduced beers use enzymes to break down gluten but may not be safe for everyone. Brewing gluten-free beer requires extra steps and precision, but modern techniques have greatly improved flavor, offering styles that rival traditional beers. Once a niche product, gluten-free beer now appeals to a wider audience—from those with celiac disease to curious drinkers—making the beer world more inclusive. Many classic cocktails we still enjoy today were born during Prohibition, when bartende...

Title: THC-Infused Drinks: Boom Meets Regulation Cornbread Hemp's CEO Eric Zipperle discusses the rapid rise of THC beverages as a wellness alternative to alcohol, highlighting their company's growth, key partnerships, and regulatory hurdles.

Title: Straight Bourbon, Status Bottles, and Smart Storage Highlights: Straight bourbon must be made in the U.S., use at least 51% corn, and age a minimum of two years in new charred oak to be called “straight.” Kentucky produces the lion’s share of the world’s bourbon and leverages climate swings to drive intense barrel interaction. Premium pricing and bottle design act as silent PR, signaling occasion, status, and expected quality before anyone tastes a drop. Most pale ales and IPAs are best within about three months, while strong, malt‑forward styles can be cellared for years with cool, steady, da...

Title: Smart Beer Buying, Can Innovation & Cocktail Classics Unrefrigerated beer and the effects on quality Canned beer has evolved from low-quality perception to the best format for freshness and protection How Public Relations help beverage brands grow History of the Espresso Martini

Whether you enjoy bourbon, scotch or rye, we have a beer for you! The perfect food and wine pairings. When that label catches your eye.

Our Katie Johnson talks with Jessica Merritt, aks "Beer Babe Jess" (photo attached) about her new book, "Rethink Everything You Know About Craft Beer" (available now via Amazon). They also talk about March being "Women's Beer Month."

Does An Exceptional Beverage Have To Empty Your Wallet. Is that relationship between price and quality real or are we all just falling for a very expensive marketing trick?

Is Your Glass REALLY Clean, PR for drinks, perfect food and wine, and myths debunked Is Your Glass REALLY Clean? Brand Magic: PR for Drinks Drink Smarter: Perfect Food & Wine Canned Beer: Myths Debunked

Host Gary Monterosso speaks with Hannah Mizrahi of the New York Cocktail Expo. Hannah tells us about upcoming trends in the cocktail segment for 2026. We also discuss how festivals play a key role in shaping consumer tastes.

Guest, Hannah Mizrahi, New York Cocktail Expo In this episode, host Gary Monterosso speaks with Hannah Mizrahi of the New York Cocktail Expo. Hannah tells us about upcoming trends in the socktail segment for 2026