A few players in the craft beer industry shared their predictions for beer in 2016 with Draft Magazine. Nothing here is too shocking, but the comments are interesting (Upland Brewing’s Doug Dayhoff has a very funny, and sarcastic, take on 2016).
I’m not very good at making predictions, but here goes.
- I’m guessing that we’ll see even more thoughtful experimentation from small brewers trying to find their niche in an increasingly competitive market.
- I’m a hop head, but I’d like to see more styles become en vogue. Having said that, I don’t see IPAs going anywhere. I suspect we’ll see more IPA derivatives—black IPAs, barrel-aged IPAs, etc.—which have been gaining steam over the past year or two.
- Craft brewery growth will continue. I realize this is hardly a stretch, but I expect more above average breweries to pop up. The proliferation is good for beer drinkers because competition breeds quality.
- I think we’ll see more repercussions from the Anheuser-Busch InBev takeover of a SABMiller. I really believe that it will serve as galvanizing force within the craft beer industry, but concerns about sketchy distribution tactics are valid. Expect the beer distribution model to undergo some scrutiny in 2016.
Barley’s Angels Bierklasse Series
Barley’s Angels is a group that’s doing some pretty cool things. The latest is a women’s only Bierklasse series at Café Centraal (2306 S. Kinnickinnic Ave.). It starts on Tuesday at 7 p.m. when the group explores strong ales. The three-part series continues with Trappists on Feb. 16 and saisons on March 15. The cost is $30 for the strong ales and saisons classes, but $45 for the Trappist session. Email Bierklasse@LowlandsGroup.com to reserve a spot in any, or all, of the three.
Barley Pop of the Week
A friend brought me a six pack of Black Rajah back from Ohio, and I’m glad she did. The black IPA from The Brew Kettle has a nice citrus bitterness with a tasty malt flavor. I’m not always a fan of black IPAs, but this one is outstanding.
Quick Taps
Thanks for all of the comments on the Best Beer list I posted last week. It’s a fun list to put together.
What’s Milwaukee native and former NBA player and coach Terry Porter doing now? Having beers named after him.
Events Brewing
Wednesday, Jan. 13: Bierklasse at Café Centraal (2306 S. Kinnickinnic Ave.) features beers from Central Waters and is hosted by CW bigwig Anello Mollica. Tickets are just $30 for what should be a great experience.
Wednesday, Jan. 13: The Milwaukee Beer Society are sampling beers from Lakefront Brewery from 6 to 9 p.m. at Best Place (901 W. Juneau Ave.). Come support the locals.
Thursday, Jan. 14: Bernie’s Tap Room (351 W. Main St., Waukesha) hosts a small plates beer pairing with Founders Brewing at 6:30 p.m. Four Founders brews are paired with tasty bites like smoked pulled pork served over cheesy grits. The cost is $33.60. Call 262-548-9800 to reserve a spot.
Saturday, Jan. 16: The Brass Tap (7808 W. Layton Ave.) celebrates its one-year anniversary in style. Head there at 4 p.m. to taste beauties like Goose Island Bourbon County Coffee Stout, Central Waters Bourbon Barrel Stout, AleSmith Speedway Stout, Toppling Goliath Pseudo Sue and plenty more. Cheers to the Brass Tap.
Saturday, Jan. 16: Taste “big, bold and beautiful” beers at Three Cellars (7133 S. 76th St.) from 1 to 4 p.m.
Sunday, Jan. 17: The monthly bottle share at The Malt Shoppe (813 N. Mayfair Rd.) focuses on Belgians—beers actually made in Belgium, not just the style. Bring either two small bottles or one large bottle to share and a snack. Tasting starts at 5:30 p.m.
Monday, Jan. 18: Story Hill BKC (5100 W. Bluemound Rd.) is hosting a great Bar Bites beer dinner with Founders. The beer list includes All Day IPA, Spectra Trifecta, Curmudgeon, KBS (yes, KBS), reDANKulous Imperial Red and Rubaeus on nitro (the raspberry brew should be deliciously smooth on nitro). Call 414-539-4424 to make a reservation for the $70 dinner.
