Sipisode 13 // Sour Beers, Welcoming Vibes & Healthy Tips
Body By Beer Podcast: Sour Secrets, Inclusive Cheers, and Wellness Wisdom - Sipisode [13]: Airing: [1/31/2024]
*Sound of beer pouring
Introduction:
Chelsea: Welcome back to the Body By Beer Podcast! I’m Chelsea Rhoads, and with me is my best friend Liz Hess.
Liz: Hello everyone! Thank you so much for joining us today! In today’s sipisode, we’re discussing [xxx]
Chelsea: Sit tight and relax because we’re about to get into the Ale Academy! This is our beer 101 segment that is perfect for newbies and aficionados alike.
[TRANSITION MUSIC]
Ale Academy; Beer 101: Unraveling the Secrets of Sour Beers
Chelsea: This week we’re jumping into a specific style of beer, and that specific style of beer happens to be sour!
[Opening Scene: A montage of various sour beers being poured into glasses, close-ups of vibrant colors and bubbles.]
So, Liz, get us started. How do we unravel the story of sour beers to fit into the world of beer newcomers and enthusiasts alike?
Liz: Absolutely, Chelsea! We are embarking on an exploration into the tantalizing world of sour beers. Sadly, they’re often misunderstood, but these complex brews have been capturing the hearts of beer connoisseurs around the globe.
Today, we will get into the secrets behind these glorious delights and crack the code to their unique flavors. If you don’t have one already, grab a glass, and let's dive in!
Chelsea: Sour beers, as the name suggests, have a distinct tanginess to them. But what gives them that signature sour taste?
It all comes down to the fermentation process.
Unlike your “standard” beers, sour beers are brewed with wild yeasts and bacteria, which introduce a whole new level of complexity to the flavors.
Now, if you’re traditionally a wine drinker, pay attention because odds are you’re going to love a sour beer.
Liz: Just like a symphony, a sour beer orchestra is composed of different strains of yeast and bacteria, each contributing its own flavor notes.
Some may bring hints of citrus, while others offer funky and earthy tones.
The magic starts to happen as these organisms ferment and transform the sugars in the beer, creating a medley of flavors that will surprise and excite your taste buds.
Chelsea: But how do sour beers achieve that perfect balance between sourness, sweetness, and acidity?
It's all about patience and time.
Sour beers often undergo an extended aging process, giving the yeast and bacteria ample time to work their magic.
The result and reward for your patience? A delicious blend of sour, sweet, and funky flavors that dance across your palate!
Liz: Sour beers come in various styles, from the lighter Berliner Weisse to the bolder Flanders red ales.
[Cut to footage of traditional Belgian Lambics and German Goses.]
Whether you're a fan of fruity and tart notes or prefer a more robust, vinegar-like tang, there's a sour beer out there for every palate.
Chelsea: So next time you're perusing the beer aisle, embark on a sour beer adventure!
With their intriguing flavors and hidden delights, sour beers are sure to leave you wanting more.
Liz: Ok! That pretty much wraps up this session of Ale Academy. Remember, beer appreciation isn't just about alcohol; it's about the flavors and the craft. Make sure to subscribe to get weekly Ale Academy lessons to boost your knowledge and confidence in the space.
Chelsea: This week's Ale Academy segment was brought to you by our Affiliate partner, The Microbrewed Beer of the Month Club!
"They drank a lot of bad beer…So you don’t have to.”
And they are so proud of their selections that they archive online with tasting notes for every beer that they've ever featured."
Make sure to click the link at the very bottom of our description to get your order in today.
Liz: It's partnerships like these that help us to keep bringing you top-notch content every week on the Body By Beer Podcast. So, if you love what you hear and want to explore some incredible beers, click on that link below, it’s a win-win for everyone involved!
[TRANSITION MUSIC]
Brew News Segment
Chelsea: Now it’s time for BREW NEWS! This segment is dedicated to bringing you the latest in craft beer news, focusing on local highlights and industry-wide trends. We've handpicked these topics from the most buzz-worthy articles of the past week, ensuring you stay informed and engaged with what's happening in the world of craft beer.
LIZ: Great Divide Brewery & Roadhouse Opening Soon in Lone Tree
For those in the Southern Denver area and for those wanting to get out of their bubble. Get ready to elevate your dining and drinking experience. Great Divide Brewery & Roadhouse is opening in Lone Tree. This is a collaboration between Great Divide and the hospitality mavens at Vibe Concepts. This new venture promises a fusion of craft beer excellence with culinary delight.
The opening signifies an exciting expansion for the Great Divide. Collaborating with Vibe, known for its successful Roadhouse concepts, this new location in Lone Tree will offer a menu of elevated comfort food alongside a diverse beer selection, including experimental brews. Great Divide's growth strategy, including licensing agreements and branching into new areas, reflects its strong market presence as a reputable brewery. We would say they’ve figured out how to persevere in a competitive and as some would say a peeked industry.
CHELSEA: Colorado Beer Drinkers Design A Control To Make Pinball More Inclusive:
This article is a shout-out to inclusivity in the craft beer industry! It’s about wanting to include rather than having to include. The Denver Post article discusses Colorado's Gamewerks Brewery's initiative to make pinball more inclusive for people with disabilities. They have developed a specialized controller that allows individuals with various disabilities to play pinball. This innovation is part of a broader effort to make gaming and entertainment spaces more accessible and inclusive. Gamewerks aims to create a welcoming environment where everyone can enjoy the fun and excitement of pinball regardless of their physical abilities.
They were able to get a grant from the Colorado Disabilities Fund.
They have interest from other breweries for the device as well: Locavore Beer Works
The Benefits of Drinking Stout: According to an article from the Good Health Center in the UK; Stout contains antioxidants, which are beneficial for heart health, and is rich in calcium, supporting bone health. It also provides essential vitamins and iron, contributing to overall nutritional intake. The article emphasizes responsible drinking and the surprising fact that stout is a lower-calorie option compared to other beers. This piece sheds light on the positive aspects of stout, often overlooked in discussions about alcoholic beverages.
Thankfully it’s stout season, dry January has almost passed and we can resume or craft beer exploration with some overlooked healthy stouts. All hail Stout Month!! :)
Liz: Ok, that’s going to do it for our brew news today. We hope you enjoyed, and remember please drop any links or articles in the comments so we can discuss some of your favorite articles in the brewing industry!
[TRANSITION MUSIC]
Hoptimistic Inquiries & Community Stories Segment: Q & A
Chelsea: And now, It's time for our Q n A segment: Hoptimistic Inquiries! We’re highlighting a topic that we wanted to get our two cents in on from the Craft Beer Professionals. CBP: Is the place to go to have a community sounding board for you brewery and taproom.
Liz: Today, we're talking about the importance of adjusting your brewing schedule to stay on-trend with the ever-evolving beer scene. Let's get started!
Chelsea: Craft beer trends can vary from region to region, or even nationwide. So, how aggressively do you adjust your brew schedule to accommodate these trends? Well, we think the answer lies in finding the right balance between tradition and innovation.
Liz: It's crucial to stay connected with your local craft beer community. Being aparat of groups like CBP, attending events, talking to fellow brewers, and most importantly, paying attention to what consumers are demanding. After all, they are the ones who will be enjoying your creations.
Chelsea: The craft beer industry is all about experimentation, pushing boundaries, and creating exciting new flavors. So, don't be afraid to take inspiration from popular styles or ingredients that are trending. This will help you stay relevant in the market.
Liz: However, it's essential to maintain your unique identity as a brewery. Craft beer enthusiasts appreciate authenticity and originality. So, while it's important to adapt, always bring your own twist to the trends.
Chelsea: Collaborations with other breweries can also be a great way to adapt your brewing schedule to match the latest trends. By working together, you can share knowledge, explore new techniques, and create something truly exceptional.
Liz: Keeping an eye on national beer trends can help you broaden your reach beyond local boundaries. But remember, what works in one part of the country may not have the same appeal in another.
Chelsea: So, constantly evolving your brewing schedule to adapt to trends is essential, but always stay true to your passion as a brewery. It's all about finding that delicate balance between innovation and authenticity.
Liz: Thanks for watching! If you enjoyed this segment, be sure to subscribe to our channel to stay updated with all things Craft Beer Culture.
[Transition Music]
Main Segment: Alcohol & Your Body. An Interview w/ Dr. Dan Brown, PT.
Chelsea: Welcome to our main segment today, where we’re going to have an engaging discussion with Dr. Dan Brown, an expert in physical therapy and a guide to understanding the nuances of our bodies' interaction with alcohol. I’ve known Dr. Dan for many years, I can personally vouch for his incredible expertise in physical therapy and his passion for maintaining health and well-being.
Our conversation today will be particularly insightful as Dr. Dan embodies a balanced approach to life. He is no stranger to enjoying a good time and has made great efforts to balance a vibrant social life with a healthy lifestyle. This unique perspective makes him an ideal person to discuss the effects of alcohol on the human body, and how one can enjoy life's pleasures while still taking care of their health.
Liz: Dr. Dan is going to shed some light on are common impacts of alcohol consumption and offer us some practical tips on mitigating these effects through exercise, stretching, nutrition, and some simple lifestyle changes. We will also explore how alcohol affects men and women differently, emphasizing the importance of understanding our biological uniqueness.
Ok, we think it’s time to start this insightful conversation with Dr. Dan. Let’s get right into the often-discussed and sometimes overlooked relationship between alcohol consumption and our well-being.
Q/A: Chelsea take the lead!
Dan gave us an intro
Common effects of drinking on the body
How to offset those effect with <exercise, stretching, nutrition…>
Effects on men vs women
Simple changes to your lifestyle that make a big difference
Chelsea: As we bring our conversation with Dr. Dan to a close, it's clear that his insights into the effects of alcohol on the body, paired with his expertise in physical therapy, provide some awesome guidance for anyone looking to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle. His practical advice on how to mitigate the impacts of alcohol through exercise, nutrition, and simple lifestyle changes is not just informative but also highly actionable. Who doesn’t love knowing the next steps?!
Liz: For those of you in the Boulder, CO area who have been inspired by Dr. Dan's expertise and are seeking a top-notch physical therapist, I highly encourage you to visit his website at [insert website] and schedule a consultation today. Whether you're addressing specific health concerns, looking to improve your overall well-being, or seeking advice on balancing enjoyment with health, Dr. Dan is an exceptional resource.
Thank you for joining us in this enlightening discussion. We hope you found it as informative and engaging as we did!
Liz: Alright, beer lovers, we do appreciate Dr. Dan stopping by today, but now, it's time for some beer facts! Welcome to the Beer Facts' segment where we chat about fun facts about beer!
[Transition Music]
Sips of Wisdom: Unusual Drinking Habits From Around the World
Chelsea: This is my absolute favorite segment! Today, we’re discussing some unusual drinking habits from around the globe. Not every little nook and cranny is known for their alcoholic consumption BUT they do have some interesting traditions:
Liz: First stop, Kenya! Here, the Masai (Muh-Sai) tribe celebrates their warrior status with a traditional drink called Osere (Ah-Sear), made from cow's blood mixed with milk. A unique way to replenish their strength! Could be an interesting option for a milk stout???
Chelsea: Yikes! In Mongolia, the locals indulge in "Airag," a fermented mare's milk served in a leather pouch known as "surok." It might sound strange, but they say it's both delicious and nutritious! Could be as strange as brewing a watermelon IPA???!! ;)
Liz: Next up, we travel to Russia, where the famous "Vodka Eyeballing" trend has emerged. Yep, you heard that right! They believe pouring vodka directly into their eye sockets enhances the alcohol's effects. Talk about a wild way to kickstart a party! Sounds like another Monday night to me!
Chelsea: Moving on to South Korea, we encounter the tradition of "Soju Bombing." This involves dropping a shot of Soju into a pint of beer and chugging it in one go. It's a crowd-pleaser at gatherings and helps build camaraderie among friends. I think they got that one from the Irish.
***Liz: Speaking of Dublin Drops and Soju Bombings…Have you heard of a Washington Red?...
Liz: Now, let's explore the vibrant streets of Mexico. Here, they celebrate with Pulque (Pull-Kae), a milky alcoholic beverage made from the fermented sap of the maguey plant. It was the sacred drink of the Aztecs, who used it in offerings to the gods and also for medicinal purposes.
Chelsea: Our final stop takes us to Finland, where "Kalsarikännit" (Kal-sari-kann-it) is the name of the game. This translates to "getting drunk in your underwear." It's a laid-back way of enjoying a few drinks at home without the fuss of dressing up. Sounds like someone got fancy describing Kevin and mines week nights!
Liz: Lol! Thank you for joining us on this exciting adventure. If you enjoyed this segment, be sure to hit that subscribe button and stay tuned for more intriguing sips of wisdom from around the world of drinking.
Chelsea: That’s it for the beer facts today. Stay with us for a round of 'Brews and Bites' where we pair our favorite beer with our favorite bites."
[Transition Music]
Brews & Bites Segment: Beer and Food Pairing: Unconventional Combinations
Liz: We’re keeping it weird and unusual this week. This week we’re discussing some unconventional combinations of beer and food, because why not?! This is BREW & BITES!
Chelsea, why don’t you start us out with some pairings:
Chelsea: That’s right we’re exploring the unique ways beers can enhance the flavors of unexpected dishes.
Our first unconventional pairing takes us to the one of my favorite places, which is enjoying spicy foods.
While many may instinctively reach for a glass of water, or milk, depending on how high the heat, but we say, why not try a bold and flavorful IPA instead?
Its hoppy bitterness perfectly complements the heat, balancing out the flavors and leaving your taste buds craving more.
Liz: Next up, a rich and creamy stout paired with... chocolate-covered bacon. That sounds amazing right now!
That’s right. We say the deep flavors of a stout meld beautifully with the sweet and savory notes of bacon and chocolate, creating a sensational a tantalizing experience that's just right for the mind that needs a bit of new or different.
Chelsea: Moving on to a more unexpected pairing, let's talk about sushi and beer. While traditionally, sake may be the beverage of choice, we encourage you to step outside the box and try a crisp and refreshing pilsner. Its clean and light profile cuts through the richness of the fish and amplifies the delicate flavors, elevating your sushi experience to new heights.
Liz: Now, brace yourselves for an uncharted territory - dessert and beer. When it comes to desserts, many automatically think of wine, but we challenge that notion. Imagine a velvety smooth porter paired with a decadent chocolate cake. The robust and roasted flavors of the porter create a heavenly blend with the sweet and chocolaty goodness of the cake, leaving you with a sinfully delicious dessert experience.
Chelsea: So there you have it, folks! Unconventional beer and food pairings that will take your taste buds on an epic adventure. Remember, don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and explore the limitless possibilities of brewery and kitchen collaborations. Thanks for joining us on Brews & Bites. Don't forget to hit that subscribe button and keep unlocking the secrets of flavor. Cheers!
Liz: As always, in each pairing, the goal is to either complement or contrast the flavors of the dish with the hop profile. Even if they’re unconventional.
Chelsea: This week’s segment of the Brews N Bites is brought to you by The Original Gourmet Cheese Club. Each month, you can embark on a flavorful journey with a selection of the finest traditional and artisan cheeses from around the globe, including award-winning varieties from both local American producers and renowned international cheesemakers.
The expert cheesemongers, with international experience and accolades, ensure each cheese reaches its peak flavor in meticulously maintained cheese "caves". With over 25 years of expertise in packaging and shipping, the Gourmet Cheese Club guarantees your cheese arrives in perfect condition, ready for you to savor as intended.
Liz: Make sure to click the link at the very bottom of our description to get your order in today. Just a heads up, while the Gourmet Cheese of the Month Club didn't pay us to sing their praises, we do have an affiliate link.
If you click through and decide to subscribe to their amazing cheese selections, we'll get a small kickback. It's partnerships like these that help us keep bringing you top-notch content every week on the Body By Beer Podcast. So, if you love what you hear and want to explore some incredible cheeses (and beers!), it’s a win-win for everyone involved!
[Transition Music]
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Craft Beer Countdown: Top 10s with Body By Beer
Chelsea: It’s time for our Top 10 List on the Body By Beer Podcast. This week’s list is taken from Hop Culture. The link to the article is included in the description. The article is The 9 Craft Beer Trends to Watch in 2024. We added number 10.
Let’s jump right in Liz!
10. Liz: Taprooms Must Embrace Evolution:
Taprooms are evolving beyond just serving beer; they're becoming cultural hubs. Customers now seek experiences like events, community engagement, and diverse food options.
This shift in consumer expectations challenges taprooms to offer more than just new beer releases.
9. Chelsea:Taking Time for Traditions:
Craft beer trends are circling back to traditional practices. German customs like kölsch service and bierstacheln are gaining popularity in US breweries. The trend includes Czech side-pull faucets and English-style cask ale.
This revival of historical beer practices is part of a broader cultural cycle, reflecting a desire to reconnect with the past while innovating for the future in the craft beer industry.
8. Liz: Love for the Lager Landsape:
2024 is predicted to be the "Year of the Dark Lager" in the craft beer industry. Light Lager's popularity is rising, with significant check-ins on Untappd.
This trend reflects a shift in both brewer innovation and consumer preferences, moving towards well-crafted, traditional lager styles.
7. Chelsea: West Coast is back … And not just IPAs
West Coast styles are resurging in craft beer, moving beyond just IPAs. Breweries are diversifying their offerings, shifting from a heavy focus on hazy IPAs to include other hoppy varieties and dark lagers.
West Coast IPAs, long overshadowed by hazies, are now re-emerging with a fruitier profile, using newer-school hops. This trend is extending to other styles like West Coast pilsners, indicating a broader shift in consumer preferences and brewing approaches.
6. Liz: Hops! Hops! Hops!
Brewers are now innovating with hop extracts, oils, and frozen products, not just new hop varieties. This shift aims to enhance flavor and aroma in beers while addressing practical concerns like increasing yields and profits.
Given rising costs and limited price increases, brewers are focusing on maximizing ingredient use. Terms like "cryo," "Lupomax," "CGX" indicate beers brewed with these novel methods, signaling a trend towards more cost-effective and creative brewing techniques.
5. Chelsea: Non-alcoholic Needs
As we’ve been saying the non-alcoholic beverage segment is rapidly growing within the beverage industry. Brands like Samuel Adams predict significant market expansion, with non-alcoholic beers, wines, and spirits gaining popularity. Many breweries have introduced non-alcoholic products, reflecting this trend.
The Adult Non-Alcoholic Beverage Association reports a substantial increase in sales, with non-alcoholic beers leading the growth. The segment's rising popularity is further supported by impressive growth in non-alcoholic wine and spirits categories.
4. Liz: Welcoming the not so new RTD - Twisted Tea
Hard tea is emerging as a popular ready-to-drink (RTD) choice, overshadowing hard coffee in the beverage alcohol market. With Twisted Tea leading sales, the segment has expanded from 80 to almost 150 brands since 2020.
This trend is driven by consumers seeking alternatives to craft beer, contributing to the expected growth of the RTD category to $40 billion by 2027.
3. Chelsea: Pushing New Packages: The Highs and Lows:
Craft beer packaging is evolving with 19.2oz "stovepipe" cans gaining popularity, offering a distinctive shelf presence and value. Breweries like New Belgium and Bell’s are using this format for core beers.
Meanwhile, smaller 8oz cans are also emerging, indicating a trend towards diverse packaging sizes in the craft beer industry. This shift in packaging reflects breweries' efforts to stand out and cater to varied consumer preferences.
2. Liz: Brewery Consolidation:
2023 saw significant brewery consolidation, with prominent mergers like Dorchester and Aeronaut Brewing, Westbound & Down's acquisition of Aspen Brewing and Capitol Creek Brewery, and several other notable partnerships and acquisitions.
These moves indicate a growing trend in the industry towards collaboration and strategic partnerships. This trend is expected to continue in 2024, reshaping the craft beer landscape.
1. Chelsea: Tapping Into Digital
In the craft beer industry, digital marketing has become a key strategy for breweries to broaden their reach. Breweries are leveraging online platforms to promote events, engaging a wider audience beyond their local communities.
This approach not only enhances visibility but also fosters a more connected and widespread craft beer community. The emphasis on digital marketing reflects the evolving landscape of the industry, where online presence is crucial for growth and engagement.
End the Sipisode!
Chelsea: Thank you for joining and supporting us this week on the Body By Beer Podcast. We hoped that you enjoyed the sipisode!
You can catch a new sipisode of the Body By Beer Podcast every Wednesday on your favorite podcast listening platform; Apple, YouTube, Spotify, etc. Please, if you haven’t already, rate and leave a review of the podcast. This really helps us grow and reach a wider audience.
Also, if you’re looking for ways to support the podcast, we’re happy to announce that our merch page is up! Get a hoodie, some stickers or whatever your pleasure. Link to the merch store is in the description.
Liz: Cheers to making some incredible memories with us this week! Join us next time on the Body By Beer Podcast for another sipisode full of insights and fun.
We’ll continue to explore more fascinating tales from around the world of beer. If you have any suggestions or stories to share, drop us a comment. Thank you for listening!
Chelsea & Liz: "Cheers!"