Spring 2026, Issue 83
From the Editor
Chris Guest – Managing Editor
As spring turns toward summer, our Spring edition explores some of beer’s most pressing questions as well as its most revealing shifts. From Japanese lagers and cask ale in the U.S. to college brewing program closures, NA beer labeling, and whether macro brands belong at craft beer festivals, this edition examines where the industry stands and where it may be headed next. Thanks for joining us!
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Opinions
Can (and Should) U.S. Breweries Try to Cash in on Cask Ale?
Cask ale is a centuries-old British tradition that values patience, craftsmanship, and a perfectly poured pint. While it remains a cornerstone of pub culture in the U.K., only a handful of American breweries and bars have embraced the labor-intensive method. Could this historic style find a larger audience in the U.S., or will it remain a niche curiosity?
Are College Brewing Program Closures a Bad Omen—or Just a Blip?
Several colleges have recently shut down brewing programs, raising concerns about the future pipeline of young brewers. Budget cuts, declining enrollment, and shifting drinking habits among Gen Z are all part of the story. But industry leaders say the closures may reflect broader higher-education pressures rather than a lasting decline in brewing education.
Do Macro Beer Brands Belong at Beer Festivals?
As beer festivals evolve, the presence of large macro breweries is sparking debate across the industry. Supporters say their resources and reach help keep festivals thriving, while critics argue these events should remain a showcase for independent craft brewers. The question raises bigger issues about identity, economics, and what beer festivals are meant to represent.
Feature Stories
Dostal Alley: Where the Casino Meets the Brewpub
In Colorado’s historic Central City, Dostal Alley blends two unlikely worlds: a small family-run casino and an award-winning brewpub. Built on decades of community investment by the Schmalz family, the business reflects the town’s long tradition of reinvention. The result is a place where local history, craft beer, and gaming intersect in unexpected ways.
Have We Reached Peak Beer? Why Japanese Lagers Brought Me Back to “Less”
Craft beer spent decades pushing toward bigger flavors and higher ABV. But the crisp elegance of Japanese lagers is reminding some drinkers that restraint can be just as compelling. In a world of excess, “less” may be the next frontier.
Non-Alcoholic vs. Alcohol-Free Beer: What’s the Difference?
As alcohol-free options surge in popularity, many drinkers assume all “no-alc” beers are the same. In reality, U.S. regulations draw a sharp legal and technical line between non-alcoholic and alcohol-free beer. Understanding that distinction reveals how these beverages are made, and why it matters.
Simplify Your Way to Success by Brewing Fewer Beers
As the craft beer market cools, breweries may find that less is more. By focusing on a smaller, stronger lineup of beers, producers can sharpen their brand identity, reduce operational complexity, and build the kind of consistency today’s drinkers, and retailers, are increasingly seeking.
Breweries & Beer
Official Review
Our certified tasting panel evaluates standout beers from around the world, offering detailed notes, scores, and insights for discerning drinkers.
