Unmasking the Finest Beer Podcasts to Elevate Your Brew Game
There’s no denying that the craft beer revolution is sweeping the nation, and people are thirsty for more than just a tasty beverage. They want to know the stories behind their favorite brews, the ins-and-outs of the brewing process, and how to elevate their personal tasting experiences. That’s where beer podcasts come in. So, grab a pint, sit back, and let us introduce you to some of the best beer podcasts that every beer enthusiast should be tuning into.
1. Craft Beer & Brewing Podcast
Ideal for: Brewing enthusiasts and those curious about the behind-the-scenes of their favorite brews.
The Craft Beer & Brewing Podcast brings in experts from the world of beer, including brewers, authors, and other notable personalities. Hosted by Jamie Bogner, co-founder and editorial director of Craft Beer & Brewing Magazine, this podcast offers deep insights into beer production, ingredient selection, and the ever-evolving techniques used by the best brewers in the business.
Memorable episode: “Episode 127: John Palmer: Water Chemistry and Building Brewing Water Profiles”
In this captivating episode, John Palmer, the author of “How to Brew,” delves deep into the significance of water chemistry and how you can manipulate it to achieve desired flavors in your brews.
2. The Beerists Podcast
Ideal for: Beer lovers interested in exploring new varieties and learning valuable tasting notes.
Known for their brutally honest reviews and often comedic commentary, The Beerists crew reviews a selection of beers in each podcast episode. An entertaining and informative listen, their banter is sure to make you laugh out loud as they guide you through a plethora of beer styles and characteristics.
Memorable episode: “Episode 467: Mexico or Bust”
In this amusing episode, the team samples and critiques a diverse range of beers from Mexico, providing a glimpse into the country’s beer scene and the quality brews that lie beyond the well-known lagers.
3. The Brewing Network’s The Session
Ideal for: Those who want to stay updated on the latest trends in the brewing industry.
The Brewing Network’s The Session is a comprehensive podcast that covers notable news and trends in the brewing world. Hosted by Justin Crossley, this podcast invites professional brewers on the show and engages in in-depth interviews, providing a wealth of knowledge straight from the source.
Memorable episode: “The Session: Live with Wayfinder Beer”
In this engaging episode, Kevin Davey, the brewmaster of Portland’s Wayfinder Beer, joins the show to discuss their unique lager-focused approach and the challenges and rewards of brewing award-winning, unconventional lagers.
4. BeerSmith Home and Beer Brewing Podcast
Ideal for: Homebrewers and DIY brewing enthusiasts.
BeerSmith is an essential podcast for those looking to hone their homebrewing skills. Hosted by Brad Smith, creator of BeerSmith Software, the podcast delves into tips, tricks, and techniques for confident brewing at home. With experts from the brewing world sharing their knowledge, BeerSmith is a valuable resource for anyone looking to brew their own beer.
Memorable episode: “Renowned Maltster and Author John Mallett on BeerSmith Podcast #84”
This insightful episode features John Mallett, a true malt expert and the author of “Malt: A Practical Guide from Field to Brewhouse.” Mallett shares his extensive knowledge on malt’s role in the brewing process, breaking down the science to give listeners a better understanding of this essential ingredient.
5. Brew Strong
Ideal for: Amateur and professional brewers seeking in-depth brewing insights.
Brew Strong is a great podcast for those looking to take their brewing knowledge to the next level. Hosted by brewing extraordinaires Jamil Zainasheff and John Palmer, this show delves into the nitty-gritty of brewing science, techniques, and equipment, ensuring listeners leave each episode feeling like brewing masters.
Memorable episode: “Brew Strong: Water Profiles”
In this informative episode, Jamil and John tackle the topic of water profiles and their impact on brewing. They provide an in-depth look at the importance of water chemistry in the brewing process and offer practical advice on manipulating water profiles for specific styles.
6. The Sour Hour
Ideal for: Fans of sour and wild ales seeking insights into the complex world of these beer styles.
The Sour Hour is a unique podcast dedicated entirely to sour and wild ales. Hosted by Jay Goodwin, Director of Brewing at The Rare Barrel, this show explores the multifaceted world of sour beer, from ingredients to fermentation techniques. With engaging interviews and in-depth discussions, The Sour Hour is a must-listen for fans of these complex beer styles.
Memorable episode: “The Sour Hour – Episode 37”
In this intriguing episode, Jay interviews Lauren Salazar, a sensory specialist and wood cellar blendress from New Belgium Brewing. They discuss sensory evaluation techniques, blending methods, and the importance of quality control in sour beer production.
7. Steal This Beer
Ideal for: Beer enthusiasts looking for unfiltered opinions and entertaining conversations.
Steal This Beer is a podcast hosted by Augie Carton, co-founder and brewer at Carton Brewing, and John Holl, senior editor of Craft Beer & Brewing Magazine. This podcast is a refreshing mix of unscripted beer-adjacent discussions and candid conversations with industry professionals.
Memorable episode: “Episode 269: Phil Markowski, Two Roads Brewing”
In this entertaining episode, the hosts chat with Phil Markowski, brewmaster and co-founder of Two Roads Brewing, about his extensive career in the brewing industry, the diverse range of beers they produce, and the future of the beer scene.
Now that you have a wealth of beer knowledge at your fingertips, it’s time to get listening and elevate your brew game. Whether you’re a brewmaster in the making, a sour beer aficionado or just someone who enjoys a good laugh over a cold one, these beer podcasts will quench your thirst for all things hoppy, malty, and pleasantly boozy.
Cheers!
As you enjoy these podcasts and expand your beer knowledge, we encourage you to share your newfound expertise with your fellow beer lovers. Our community thrives on the exchange of ideas and experiences, so don’t hesitate to engage with others in the comment section below, join or create beer tasting events, or simply savor a cold one with friends.
Remember, the key to fully appreciating beer is to keep exploring and learning, so be sure to stay informed, sample new brews, and, above all, enjoy the camaraderie that comes with being a part of the vibrant beer community.