Hoppy Craftsmen - Arizona Craft Beer Podcast

(NSFW) In this lively episode, the crew dives into a mix of nostalgia, creativity, and celebration. The legendary Randal the Enamel Remover makes a comeback in conversation, and Ed proposes an intriguing blend of stout and sour beers. They review the Hockey Czech! Pilsner from Goldwater Brewing Co. and reflect on the bittersweet end of the Arizona Coyotes and Grand Canyon Brewing's Kachina beer, w...

(NSFW) Join Ed, Chris, and Nate in this episode as Ed returns from Spain and shares his discoveries about the local craft beer scene—or the lack thereof. Ed recounts his visit to a single craft beer bar and a memorable drinking session with some Irish lads. The conversation shifts to Wisconsin, revealed as having the drunkest counties in the US, leading to a discussion about binge drinking and whe...

(NSFW) Ed is still out of the country, backpacking around Europe....  we think. Though we're not sure what he's doing over there. I'm sure we'll get filled in on his beer escapades when he gets back. Until then Nate and I decided to sit down at his place and have some of the newer Wren House releases. We talk about some current news from the latest DDH Spellbinder and other varriation release part...

(NSFW) On this exhilarating installment of Road Sodas, your hosts Nate and Chris sit down at one of the valley's favorite brew pubs, Tombstone Brewing. But the north location, they didn't drive all the way down to Tombstone to enjoy Tombstone IPAs. During this new-ish format of Road Sodas they go over some behind the scenes talks from the last episode with The Shop. They talk about the amazing loc...

(NSFW) Join Nate and Chris for a captivating episode as they reunite with the team from The Shop Beer Co. to delve into their remarkable achievements over the past few years. From discussing the expansion of their production facility to the remodeling plans for the adjacent space, Dylan and Dave share insights into their journey. Learn about the widespread success of Church Music, their flagship h...

(NSFW) In this lively episode, Ed, Chris, Nate, and special guest Sarah Ritchie from Monster Brewing Company gather at Hair of the Dog in Gilbert, Arizona. Amidst clinking glasses, they explore Monster Energy's "The Beast" and Hard Tea, setting the stage for an engaging session. Sipping on Pueblo Vida Pulp IPA and Roses By the Stairs Fairy Dust Triple Dry-Hopped IPA, they honor podcast traditions...

(NSFW) In this episode, Chris and Ed sit down with Rob Fullmer, the Director of the Arizona Craft Brewers Guild, to spill the beans on Strong Beer Fest 2024. The trio breaks down the festival's essentials—what to expect, where to be, and when it's all happening. Beyond festival talk, they explore past highlights, teasing with insights into this year's exciting event. Rob shares the guild's festiva...

(NSFW) In this episode, Ed regales Nate and Chris with tales from his visit to the iconic Rowley Farmhouse Ales in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The studio comes alive with the popping of corks as the trio embarks on a beer-tasting adventure. The first sip is the uniquely crafted "Teosinte," a farmhouse ale where Oaxacan green dent corn, and Teosinte a Mexican grass take center stage creating a delightful...

(NSFW) Welcome to the first episode of 2024 with Ed, Chris, and Nate—a lively journey through the ever-evolving craft beer landscape. Ed brings back some hoppy treasures of Weld Works Extra Extra Juicy Bits IPA from his Colorado holiday, setting the stage for a year of exciting new brews. For the old news front, the gang talks about some drama that happened with the closing of Flying Basset, inter...

(NSFW) In our final 2023 gathering, the whole crew comes together for a heartfelt reflection on the rich tapestry of Arizona Craft Beer. Ed, Nate, and Chris take a stroll down the memory lane of the year, reminiscing about the most cherished beers and the ones that found their way into countless glasses. Surprisingly, the most enjoyed and most consumed don't always align. They delve into the less-...

(NSFW) In this festive episode filled to the brim with holiday cheer, Ed takes on the role of an online detective, navigating the vast interwebs to curate the ultimate Christmas gift guide for craft beer enthusiasts. After thorough investigation, he compiles two distinct lists: one highlighting five gifts that should never grace the hands of a craft beer aficionado, and the other presenting five m...

(NSFW) In this episode, Ed and Chris delve into the realm of beer appreciation, exploring Hop Culture Magazine's compilation of the "Most Five-Star Check-ins on Untappd in 2023." As they navigate through the list, they offer insightful critiques, questioning whether certain entries are truly deserving of the prestigious five-star rating or if they are merely riding the wave of hype or exclusivity....

(NSFW) In this thirst-quenching episode, Ed and Chris dive headfirst into the rising star of beverage trends—Hop Waters! As per Nielson, this newcomer is swiftly becoming one of the fastest-growing drink categories. Following the "expert" guidance of Vine Pair , they navigate through the best selections, considering categories like the ideal choice for hop-heads, the perfect pick for newbies, and...

(NSFW) In this year's Craft Beer Awards season, Ed and Chris delve deep into the 2023 GABF results, celebrating the victories of Arizona's breweries. They shine a spotlight on the major categories and the skilled brewers who have risen to the top. However, as they navigate through the list, they can't help but notice the absence of certain beer styles. Chris laments the missing Sour Stout, while t...

(NSFW) In this intriguing episode, Ed and Chris embark on an internet odyssey, delving deep into the digital catacombs of Reddit. Their mission? To unearth and examine a treasure trove of unpopular craft beer opinions. The online world is awash with passionate voices, and selecting just a handful of these digital gems proved to be quite the challenge. As they dissect these unconventional perspecti...

(NSFW) Join us in this delightful episode as Ed and Chris embark on a frothy autumnal adventure through a vast array of fall-inspired brews. From the classic Marzen to the revered Vienna lagers, they traverse the rich tapestry of flavors, encompassing both local marvels and enticing foreign imports. As the amber elixirs flow and laughter ensues, they sprinkle in delightful nuggets of Oktoberfest t...

(NSFW) In the second episode of this season, Ed, Nate, and Chris kick things off with a splash of significant beer news. They shine a spotlight on some substantial acquisitions orchestrated by a relatively lesser-known player in the industry, Tilray, a Canadian-based cannabis product company. Tilray's acquisition spree extends to a slice of AB/InBev's craft portfolio, including renowned brands suc...

(NSFW) In the inaugural episode of Season 2, Ed, Nate, and Chris embark on a flavorful journey as they savor their last sips of the illustrious Dirty Hop Water Series, aptly named "This is the End" by AZ Wilderness Brewing. This hazy IPA boasts a single hop variety, the illustrious Wai-iti. As they sip and savor, they find themselves awash in nostalgia, reminiscing about the series' formative days...

(NSFW) On this exhilarating installment of Road Sodas, your hosts Ed and Chris share the airwaves with the esteemed Patron Supporter, Zach D. With the recent unveiling of Phoenix Magazine's illustrious 2023 Best of Edition, our trio takes the plunge into the crème de la crème offerings nestled within the vibrant heart of Phoenix and its sprawling Valley. Ed kicks off the customary "predict the vic...

(NSFW) Prepare your stash of tissues, as it's time to reach for those tear-jerking moments. Welcome to the Culmination of Season 1 of the Hoppy Craftsmen podcast. Over the course of this dual installment, Ed, Chris, and Nate convene with Jeff to delve into a medley of cherished episodes. Amidst these discussions, they unveil the concealed intricacies that often evade the ears of most listeners. Un...

(NSFW) Prepare your stash of tissues, as it's time to reach for those tear-jerking moments. Welcome to the Culmination of Season 1 of the Hoppy Craftsmen podcast. Over the course of this dual installment, Ed, Chris, and Nate convene with Jeff to delve into a medley of cherished episodes. Amidst these discussions, they unveil the concealed intricacies that often evade the ears of most listeners. Un...

(NSFW) In this rebroadcast of a Patron Exclusive episode Ed and Chris go through the gambit of several Pumpkin Spice beers so you don't have too. They range from not so bad to down right drain pours. They laugh, they cry, and most likely have a little throw up in their mouths, all for you. So remember this holiday season, not all Pumpkin Spice things are good. And most are down right terrible, but...

(NSFW) Ed and Chris reunite with the ever-friendly Andrew Bauman, Deputy Director of the AZ Craft Brewers Guild, to delve into the exciting updates on Flagstaff's Real, Wild and Woodsy craft beer festival. They reminisce about their previous chat before the Strong Beer Festival and eagerly discuss their enjoyable experience at the new location. Andrew generously shares insights into the festival's...

(NSFW) This week, join Nate and Chris as they venture to Divided Vine for an unforgettable IPA tasting session with Ed. It all started when Ed insisted they try a particular IPA on draft, leading to an impromptu gathering. As they arrived, they couldn't help but be captivated by the impressive selection of IPAs available. Thus, an IPA Showdown ensued, with each member choosing their own brew for o...

(NSFW) In this episode of the Hoppy Craftsmen podcast, join Nate, Chris, and Ed as they embark on a thrilling adventure in "Crafting Adventures and Ales: An Interview with Jordan Gregory." Gather 'round as they sit down with Jordan Gregory, a long-time friend of the show, who is no stranger to living the adventure lifestyle and exploring the world one beer at a time. Prepare for an engaging conver...