Points Of Brew
By Points of Brew
Points Of BrewJan 15, 2021
Episode 68: Dank & Danker
Hello, and welcome to the latest episode of the Points of Brew podcast with Stephen Carter and Aaron Getliffe.
In this episode, the lads are joined by Social Media & Marketing Manager of Unbarred Brewery, Brett Preston. Brett joins Stephen & Aaron for a drink-along of sorts, as they both drink the latest releases from Unbarred; the Dank & Danker IPAs.
Listen in as Brett discusses life at Unbarred Brewery and how he came to be there, and the story behind both beers which were drank on the show. The beers were sourced and purchased from Yorkshire Craft Beers where they are available, or from Unbarred's website directly here.
Huge thanks to Brett for coming onto the show, and we hope that you enjoyed listening as always!
Episode 67: Brewing In The Capital
In this episode, Stephen & Aaron are joined again by Lotte Peplow of the Brewer's Association as they speak with head brewer of DC Brau Alex Spencer.
A brewery that has come to the UK recently hitting the shelves in Home Bargains, they have also collaborated with the Craft Beer Channel and Howling Hops too, both at home and away.
Alex discusses both brews, and the resulting beers, alongside his involvement with the brewery and history within the industry. Huge thanks to Lotte for organising the show once more and providing samples of both beers which were consumed during the show.
Episode 66: Bargains At Home
Join the lads (Stephen & Aaron) as they delve into the world of craft beer which is available on the shelves of Home Bargains right now! Joined by Lotte Peplow (European Representative of the Brewers Association), Chris Smith and Robby Willey (co-founders of Virginia Beer Co) they chat about all things American beer, import/export and the support the BA lends to American brewers.
As part of the show, Stephen and Aaron both drink Gorgeous, Virginia's hazy Citra IPA at 5.7%, which is available in Home Bargains now in 330ml cans. Stephen also tries a can of their Purple Hand Gang, a fruited sour which isn't available in the UK right now sadly. They are however optimistic about future beers making it to UK shores in the near future.
Huge thanks to Lotte for arranging the podcast, sending the beers out to drink during the show and for the chaps from Virginia taking time to chat to the Points of Brew podcast.
Episode 65: Going Atomic
In this episode, Stephen & Aaron are joined by a very special guest, Steve Grossman of Sierra Nevada brewery in the US!
Steve is the brother of original founder, Ken, and now heads up the brewery's export division amongst other duties which he explains as part of the show. Steve was an excellent guest, and there's potentially another show in the works before the end of the year too, so watch this space...
Thank you for listening to this Sierra Nevada special, and please send any comments, suggestions or feedback to pointsofbrew@gmail.com
Episode 64: What Does The Fox Say?
In this episode of the Points of Brew podcast, Stephen is joined by returning guest, James Fox, who originally joined Stephen during lockdown three years ago.
James explains what has changed since they last spoke three years ago, whilst discussing the two beers he sent over to drink during the show. They were a Session/Table NEIPA which he brewed in under three days, and a black IPA which he knows that Stephen loves!
He goes on to discuss how the Teesside home-brew club has grown and he now heads it up since previous lead Alex Postles has taken on his brewery, Bayonet, full time.
Thanks to James for sending out the beers to be drank on the show and if you want to find out more about James and his brews, you can do so by searching for 'Fox Brewing' on Instagram. Likewise, search for the 'Teeside Homebrew Club' to find out more about their meetings too.
Episode 63: Drink Cask Fresh
In this episode, Stephen & Aaron make their way through the beers kindly sent to them from the new Drink Cask Fresh campaign; a campaign designed to reform cask beer and reinvigorate people's passion for it.
Cask beer is unique to this country, but it is often treated as a second-grade citizen in the beer world, often dismissed as nothing more than brown, boring or even twiggy beer! We bust some myths regarding cask beer in an attempt to promote and save this genuine British institution as it is something we created and is completely unique to us as a nation.
During this show we drink beers included in the box from Timothy Taylor, Robinson's, Dark Star and Titanic all of which were well-received and excellent examples of bottle conditioned beer that would be delightful on cask as per this campaign. Of course, this box is for promotional purposes and the intention is that we all head to our local and drink fresh pints of cask where we can.
For more info, head to the Drink Cask Fresh website here
Episode 62: In the Pursuit of Flavour
In this show, Stephen & Aaron chat with Simon Howers of Padstow Brewing Co. who is now one of the most featured guests on the show!
As always, it was a great chat with Simon and he shares details of how Padstow are celebrating their 10th anniversary and the beer they brewed for it, 10/10.
Episode 61: Military Grade
In this episode, Stephen & Aaron welcome Alex Postles, owner and brewer from Bayonet Brewing onto the podcast. Whilst the brewery may only be part time, running alongside Alex's full-time military career, it has certainly gathered momentum and a strong reputation over the past 18 months which Alex discusses. During the show the chaps discuss and drink beers which Alex kindly sent to the show which were Keyboard commander and Delta Lima Six, a West Coast IPA and a Pale Ale respectively. Whilst doing so, Alex also discusses his busy schedule for 2023, plus for expansion and the potential to bring in another brewer in his absence due to his career.
As part of this show, Alex has offered 10% off his webshop and listeners can use code 'POB10' to get 10% off their order placed directly with Bayonet on their website. More info can also be found here, and it's recommended you follow them across all their social media channels and purchase Alex's beer where you can!
As always, if you have any questions, comments or feedback please send it in to pointsofbrew@gmail.com and don't forget to like, follow and subscribe to this channel wherever you choose to listen, and leave a positive review if you think we're doing a good job!
Episode 60: Monkey See, Monkey Do...
In this episode Stephen & Aaron are joined by returning guest, Elliott Carrington AKA Crafty Carrington who first appeared on the show back in 2020 as a home brewer and enthusiast. Since then, things have changed somewhat as Elliott is now a brewing assistant at Powder Monkey Brewery in Gosport and the trio drink some Powder Monkey beers whilst having a chat how Elliott found himself at Powder Monkey. During the show, the chaps drink their extremely nice Explosion West Coast IPA, the Drop Anchor Vienna Pale Ale and the BBQ Pitmaster Rye IPA, all of which were superb. Powder Monkey brew some interesting styles which aren't regularly seen in the beer world, alongside the hazy IPAs and Pales you'd expect them to.
Do you want to learn about the second swallow? Then listen in to this show as Aaron tells you all about it!
You can find more out about Powder Monkey by visiting their website or finding them across social media by searching for Powder Monkey. They are also offering 20% off their beers for a limited time only so use code 'POB20' at point of checkout to receive 20% off your order!
Episode 59: Tees Company
Episode 58: Phantasm Of the Hopera (Mondo Special)
In this episode of the Points of Brew podcast, Stephen & Aaron find themselves recording virtually once again as they are joined by Tom Palmer, co-founder of Mondo Brewing in London. Tom explains how Mondo came to be founded, his history home brewing and experiences doing so both in the US and in Japan, which sparked his enthusiasm for experimentation and brewing on a larger scale.
During the show, Stephen drinks their Session IPA Little Victories, before both him & Aaron come onto Phantasm Of the Hopera, their latest collaboration beer with Saltaire Brewery in Yorkshire. This beer uses an ingredient which, to date, is exclusive to the US and New Zealand; Phantasm, a powder derived from dried and crushed white wine grapes. Tom explains how this helps promote flavour and aroma in their beer, with fewer hops needed during the brewing process which hopefully will help the industry become more sustainable in the future.
Tom also discusses their process of choosing not to boil during the brewing process, which they did for this beer also, and the benefits which this can bring to particularly hoppy beers in both depth and thickness. Thanks to Tom for joining us on the podcast, we appreciated his time with us considering he was feeling under the weather on the night too. Also thanks to the team at Mondo for sending us the beers ahead of the show, whilst they were free this did not influence our thoughts and opinions which were reflected in the show.
As always, please feel free to send any questions, comments or feedback to pointsofbrew@gmail.com and don't forget to like, comments, share and subscribe to this podcast wherever you choose to listen to it.
Episode 57: Slutty For Putty
It's brew day! Watch and listen in as Stephen & Aaron fire up the pilot kit at Quirky and attempt to brew a Double IPA (DIPA) in homage to the yearly hype release, Putty, from Verdant in Cornwall. Taking inspiration from it, the duo try and replicate Putty's success and follow the recipe as closely as possible but make their own tweaks to the recipe in order to put their own spin on the beer.
Stephen & Aaron drink a can of Putty in this episode to see what the hype is all about and if the fuss is still worth it (spoiler alert, it is!) and begin to dream of making a beer of a similar quality to this. Does the pilot kit survive? Tune in and find out, and see what tweaks have been made to the recipe and, more importantly, when the beer will be released! The beer will be available in the coming weeks at the Quirky tap room so stay tuned for announcements on social media for its release.
As always, if you have any questions, comments or feedback please get in touch on pointsofbrew@gmail.com or reach out on any of our social media platforms. Don't forget to like, comment, share and subscribe to this podcast wherever you listen and watch it, as it helps reach more people interested in good beer!
Episode 56: Jupiler, is that you? (Forest Road Special)
In this episode of the Points of Brew podcast, Stephen & Aaron are joined by Pete Brown, the founder of Forest Road Brewing Company in London. Coming from America with a dream to be a part of the UK's upcoming craft beer revolution, Pete explains how he left the US to make it in the brewing world in London. With previous experience at Siren and Camden, Pete was no stranger to brewery life when he went to make it on his own, but he discusses how it wasn't quite as simple as that.
During the show, the lads drink Forest Road's Sesh, Ride, Work and Posh before simultaneously finishing off on they now-renowned Double IPA, Jupiter. We then dig into the cease and desist case submitted by AB InBev against Jupiter, over fears it would cause damage to their existing product, Jupiler. Being a lager served and brewed in Belgium, this seemed extreme and eventually the case was dropped, which Pete goes on to explain why it was dropped.
Huge thanks to Pete for coming onto the show and more information can be found out about Forest Road here including how to order their beer! They all come highly recommended, with Jupiter being a firm favourite of the hosts. The beer was kindly provided to the show before recording, however this did not affect their thoughts and opinions given on them.
If you'd like to contact the Points of Brew podcast, then you can do so by emailing direct at pointsofbrew@gmail.com
The World's Oldest Brewery? A Birra Montecassino Special
In this bonus episode, Stephen & Aaron drink two beers which they were sent from Birra Montecassino in Italy. Regarded as perhaps the world's oldest brewery, Birra Montecassino was revived following its destruction during the infamous battle of Montecassino during World War Two. Beginning production once more in 2018, using new kit but traditional methods, recipes and ingredients, the brewery is now looking to expand and once more become renowned worldwide as it once was many years ago.
The two beers drank during the show were 'Alba' and 'Aurea', the first being a golden ale and the second being a white wheat beer at 5% and 4.8% respectively. Listen in as the chaps give their views on these two beers in this short bonus episode, and you can find more information about the brewery over at their website here.
As usual, please send any comments and feedback to pointsofbrew@gmail.com and don't forget to like, follow and subscribe to the Points Of Brew podcast wherever you listen to the show. You can also find us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and TikTok.
The two beers sent were gifted to the show, but this did not affect our views reflected in the show.
Episode 55: The Home Of Lager (Pillars Brewery Special)
Episode 54: What Is A Cold IPA?!
Can A Shark Play Drums?: A Voyager Special
In this special edition podcast, Stephen chats with professional drummer and craft beer enthusiast Ashley Doodkorte all the way from Perth, Australia. Graphic designer by day, but drummer for the progressive pop metal band Voyager (and others) by night, Ash is the first musician on the show, and the first guest from Australia!
In this show, Ash shares his experiences as a drummer and life on the road across Australia, Europe and beyond, but more importantly, shares his beer adventures and experiences whilst doing so! To name but two, he has visited Cloudwater and Dogfish Head on his travels and hopes to do more on their next tour (TBC for 2023). Ash also discusses their attempt to represent Australia at last year's Eurovision and how they came so close, only to be thwarted by the judging panel. Is that the end of their attempts however? Maybe they'll give it one more go next year...
We also discuss the age old question of 'Can a shark play drums?' which Ash not only answers, but demonstrates (link below).
Massive thanks to Ash for coming onto the Points Of Brew podcast, and thanks to the band for reaching out and offering to be part of the show. To find out more about Voyager, head to their website. You can listen to their music on Spotify and YouTube and also watch the video for their single 'Submarine' here, in which you can watch a shark attempt to play drums... As always, any feedback is appreciated and can be sent to pointsofbrew@gmail.com
All artwork and music used with permission of the band.
Episode 53: Beards & Hairlines (Dead Weight Special)
In this episode of the Points Of Brew podcast, Stephen & Aaron are joined by David & Dale from new brewery in Nuneaton, Dead Weight. A very small batch brewery, producing around 100 cans per batch, David & Dale are intent on producing the best beers they can and only producing ones that they would like to drink themselves.
The duo kindly sent out some cans ahead of the recording including their newly launched west coast IPA, Tidal Wave, hopped with Huell Melon, their session IPA, Dinghy, and their baltic porter, Tempest. As you'll hear on the show, the beers went down incredibly well and wish the pair all the best for their future releases and potential expansions when they are ready.
To find out more about Dead Weight, head to their website (https://www.deadweightbrewing.co.uk) where you can also buy their beers directly to be shipped, and you can also find them on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/deadweightbrewingco/).
Thanks to them for sending the beers out to be tried on the show, and their gifting of these did not affect the thoughts or opinions reflected on the show. As always, any questions comments or feedback can be sent to pointsofbrew@gmail.com
Episode 52: Pronunciation Problems
In this episode of the Points of Brew podcast, Stephen & Aaron drink two beers from Flying Trunk Brewery and deliberate how to pronounce the first of theirs, Petrichor. Whilst drinking this beer, they discuss Aaron's recent trip to Prague as he visited 'beer heaven' and drank a flight of beers ranging from a west coast IPA all the way to a NEIPA. What could be better?!
They then drink the second beer sent to them by Flying Trunk, Past Your Bedtime, a five grain stout which (surprisingly) both Stephen and Aaron enjoyed! When Stephen finds a stout he can drink, you know it's serious business! Huge thank to Flying Trunk for providing the beers for the show, and both Stephen & Aaron gave their honest opinions on both beers despite them being provided for free.
If you have any questions, comments or feedback for the show please get in touch via one of our social media channels or get in touch by emailing at pointsofbrew@gmail.com
Episode 51: Save The National Brewery Centre
In this special roundtable episode, Stephen hosts a number of guests who have been affected by and campaigning against the closure of the National Brewery Centre in Burton Upon Trent. In a recent decision taken by owners Molson Coors, following actions taken by Burton Council, the National Brewery Centre has now closed its doors, however local residents will not sit by quietly and allow this to go unnoticed.
Stephen is joined by Steven Blakemore (Former Volunteer & Campaigner), Jack Burrows (Former Volunteer & Campaigner), Richard Grosvenor (Local Councillor & Campaigner) and George Collins (Former Burton resident & Campaigner) who all share their opinions and experiences on the matter. Whilst the Centre may have closed, there is clearly still a chance to voice opinions against this closure to the council who, hopefully, may change their decision or at least go some way as to putting minds at rest regarding the collection of displays within the museum.
There is an active Facebook group with regular updates on the matter which can be joined here and protests arranged in an attempt to further the message and change the council's decision. Thanks to all guests who joined on the show and to George for asking to us take part in this vitally important campaign helping persevere our national brewing heritage. The National Brewery Centre was a vitally important showcase of our brewing history & something to be proud of and, without it, the town will be much poorer for it.
Molson Coors were approached to appear on the show, however they did not respond to any of our requests.
#SaveTheNationalBreweryCentre
Episode 50: Good Beer Hunting; The Old Grocers
Episode 49: Simply Red
In this episode of the Points of Brew podcast, Stephen & Aaron continue their research into the world of red ales ahead of their upcoming second brew day. Red ales aren't too common so why not make your own in the absence of many others?
In this show, they drink Atlantic Red from Atlantic Brewery, Red Rock from Roosters and Several Minutes On Mars from St Mars Of the Desert, the latter two of which are available at Yorkshire Craft Beers. As they reflect on these three beers, Stephen discusses his latest trip to Cornwall whilst Aaron has been busy in Manchester visiting several watering holes on the way.
As usual, any and all feedback on this or any other show is welcomed and can be sent directly to pointsofbrew@gmail.com or by messaging on any of the following social media channels; Instagram, Facebook or Twitter.
Episode 48: Tiny the Elder
Stephen and Aaron try their first beer!
Yes it's finally that time and the first Points of Brew beers is ready to try. Ish. Is it quite what they expected? Listen in as Stephen & Aaron give their respective verdicts and see how the beer turned out. Whilst they aimed high at trying to replicate Pliny the Elder from Russian River this, Tiny the Elder, is their first attempt at the style and certainly won't be the last. The artwork on this beer was provided by NC_Redrawn and you can check out his work by following this link.
The show is rounded out with a look at what the next beer will be in this ongoing small batch series, and it's a red IPA. The research begins with Paper, Scissors from North Brew Co in Leeds and the beer was provided by Beer52 in their recent Stone & Friends box. You can try Beer52 also using code 'STEPHENFREEBEER' at checkout, needing only to pay postage on the box. You can't say fairer than that!
Thanks for listening to the Points of Brew podcast, and if you have any feedback please do send it to pointsofbrew@gmail.com and don't forget to like, follow and subscribe to us on social media and wherever you tune into the show.
Episode 47: Going Out West
Episode 46: Ghost In The Machine (Parish Special)
In this episode I am joined by head brewer of Parish Brewing Co, and now master cicerone, Ryan Speyrer. Ryan joins me live from the brewhouse in Louisiana, ahead of his regular Monday routine of checking inventory and stocks for the upcoming week's brew schedule.
As part of our conversation, Ryan tells me about his brewing history & ongoing love of home brewing and how he came to be head brewer at Parish. We discuss their now most recognised beer, Ghost In The Machine (which I drink a can of) and how the beer actually started life as a west coast IPA before being converted into the beer it is today. Ryan also discusses the affect of global supply chain issues and rising costs, and how hop harvest and selection is his favourite time of year.
Huge thanks to Ryan for joining me, and you can follow the latest updates from Parish on their website or by searching Parish Brewing on Facebook & Instagram.
Episode 45: The Magic Rock Odyssey
Cannonball Run? Or Cannonball Done?
In this episode of the Points of Brew podcast, Stephen and Aaron digest the news that Lion is selling Magic Rock and Fourpure to Odyssey Inns with immediate effect. They also drink and rate the recently released 2022 Cannonball Run beers alongside the original and try to stay relatively sensible along the way, despite their ABV. The pair also discuss Magic Rock's place in the current beer scene, where it could be heading and if this new ownership could be a return to form for them.
The three Cannonball specials were provided to the show by Magic Rock directly however this did not influence their reception or the opinions given during this show. Thanks to Magic Rock for sending the beers out ahead of the show being recorded.
If you enjoy the Points of Brew podcast, please let us know on pointsofbrew@gmail.com
Episode 44: Life & Death In The Premier League
In this episode, Stephen and Aaron drink and rate the new Life & Death series from Vocation Brewery in Hebden Bridge. Called the Life & Death festival, these beers were brewed in celebration of the original's 7th birthday, first being brewed back in 2015. Since then, Life & Death has gone on to become Vocation's best-selling beer with the brewery now selling over 10 million pints in total per year, a long way away from the chicken shed they first started in! The three beers were a session version at 3.5%, a hazy version at 6.5% and a gold version at 7.4% all of which were drank and rated on the shows.
Whilst drinking the beers, both Stephen & Aaron reflect on the incredible achievement that was the England Lionesses winning the 2022 Euros on home soil at Wembley in front of a record-breaking crowd. Beating Germany 2-1 in the second period of extra time, the women did what the men couldn't and finally brought football home and hopefully inspired a nation of young female athletes as a result. We consider the potential effects of this amazing achievement and what it could mean for the future of women's football.
Before we close out the show, we give our thoughts on the upcoming Premier League season with Stephen being a Manchester United fan and Aaron being a Leeds United fan. The Ronaldo problem comes up in conversation, as does Leeds' selling of two of their best players, Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha, before pinning our colours to the mast and predicting where both will respectively finish come the end of the season. Did someone also say Cannonball Run?
If you like the show, or have any feedback, please do get in touch and send any and all to pointsofbrew@gmail.com or reach out on any social media channels. We are always happy to welcome guests onto the show and looking for venues to host us so we can record in the field, so if you think you could do that then let us know! To keep up with Aaron's antics you can follow him @basicbeerboy on Instagram and you can find Points of Brew on all social media channels.
Episode 43: Into Orbit (Orbit Brewery Special)
In this episode, Stephen is joined by Paul Spraget, head brewer of Orbit beers who are based in Walworth London. Stephen recorded this show as part of a mini series over the course of summer focussing on some of the UK's best sour beer producers, which Paul & Stephen discuss during the show. Paul discusses his employment history with numerous different breweries, and how he came to be at Orbit, bringing along with him the idea for a tzatziki sour which we drink whilst recording. We also try their basil sour, basziki, afterwards which Paul discusses and tries for the first time since bottling this new beer.
Huge thanks to Paul for joining me on the show and Orbit for sending the beers out to me to drink whilst recording. The beers being sent of course did not affect my judgement of them and I can highly recommend both of the sours if you ever find them in a bar in London or if you visit their tap room. If you'd like to find out more about Orbit, you can do so by visiting their website or by searching 'Orbit Beers' in either Instagram or Twitter. Likewise you can find Paul himself on Twitter @MarshallStaxx.
If you have any questions, comments or feedback for this or any other show, please send it to pointsofbrew@gmail.com or get in touch on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook.
Episode 42: Goosey Gander
In this episode of the Points of Brew podcast, Stephen & Aaron head over to the Gaping Goose in Garforth as this was Aaron's first place of employment during his school years. The Gaping Goose has a great local reputation for its community-led approach and its well-kept cask ales, being recognised for its excellence by Timothy Taylor's themselves. During this show we drank Theakston's Best Bitter, Adnam's Broadside and Ossett's Yorkshire Blonde, all served on cask and in great condition too.
Being on the outskirts of Garforth, it is a distance from the main street but it is worth the trip over to check out what guest ales they are serving. We also discuss Aaron's recent trips to Spain and Halifax and the beer that he found there, followed by looking at Quirky's latest beer launches and finally our upcoming collaboration brew day. We will document this journey and can't wait to make it happen!
Huge thanks to Jo for hosting us and we look forward to returning in the future! You can find out more about the Goose by checking out their Facebook page. For all the latest details about the show, what we're drinking and where we are heading then search for Points of Brew on all social media channels or Basicbeerboy on Instagram for Aaron.
Episode 41: Clubland
In this episode, Stephen is joined by award-winning author Pete Brown as part of the launch of his new book, Clubland. Stephen had the pleasure of meeting Pete recently at the Robin Hood in Pontefract where he did a talk about his new book and this conversation is a continuation of that talk. Having read Pete's previous books, it was a privilege to have Pete on the show.
Pete explains how this book has been a project of his for a long time, almost exceeding his previous book from 2003, Man Walks Into A Pub which shares a similar theme. Clubland, however, focuses specifically on the important role working men's clubs played in our social history and how the upper classes attempted to control our movement, however this ultimately failed. This lead to the rise in popularity of the club and how they shaped our society, particularly in areas of industry in the North.
If you'd like to learn more about the club movement, you can purchase a copy of the book at one of the following retailers; Waterstones, Amazon or Bookshop. Huge thanks to Pete for joining me, and we look forward to meeting and speaking to Pete again in the future.
Episode 40: Not For Twitter (NFT)
In this episode, we wade into the muddy waters of discussing supermarket craft beer after Salt Beer Factory kindly sent us their latest addition to ASDA's shelves out to try; NFT IPA. A 6.5% IPA which incorporates the latest trend of buying and collecting digital assets also known as NFT's, this beer got people talking upon its press release being sent out and the beers being received.
We try this beer, brewed in collaboration with Gwei-Lo, on the show before comparing it against a non-supermarket beer; the latest release in Northern Monk's Thought Bubble series, a 7% DDH IPA. Our discussion sees us cover cost, availability, quality and the impact on the industry amongst other things as part of our assessment of supermarket craft beer. This show was recorded at Yorkshire Craft Beers and thanks to them for hosting us once more.
Aaron also tells us about his time spent dressed as a viking in York, along with a couple of other trips he has been on since we last recorded. I also explain a brief period of radio silence since my son, Sebastian, was born and how parenthood has been so far. We also look on to where we may be recording our next episode/s.
Huge thanks to Salt for sending this beer out to us and their sending of it in no way influenced our views on the beer nor did we request the beer to be sent out to us. For more info, and to buy it direct, head on over to their webshop
Episode 39: Papaya Don't Preach
In this bonus episode, I chat with Chris & Ben from Pastore Brewing & Blending and Lee from Brew York as part of their collaboration brew day. The guys from Pastore travelled North to collaborate on their now released Berliner Weisse, Papaya Don't Preach, made using papaya, lemongrass and ginger. The beer is available from Brew York directly here.
As part of this special episode we discuss all things sour including the current nationwide demand for them, the increase in production costs and how the idea for this collaboration was formulated. This episode was recorded on site at Brew York's new brewery site at Handley Park which Nadia from their social media team kindly showed me around and invited me to their lunchtime barbecue afterwards! Huge thanks also to Chris, Ben and Lee for agreeing to have a chat with me and taking time out of their day to do so. You can find out more about Pastore and order their beers here.
As this episode was recorded on site, there is some background noise throughout so it may be best listening to this one through headphones.
Episode 38: Get Out, Drink & Have Fun
In this continuation of the new format podcast, Aaron and Stephen visit the Market Tap in Castleford. Established between lockdowns in 2020, the Market Tap has successfully negotiated obstacles placed in its way and continues to serve a great selection of beers to its customers.
Drinking from the bar this time, we drink two different beers whilst attending with Aaron drinking Cloudwater's 'Happy!' a session pale at 3.5% and Stephen drinking an Exercise In Friendship, a 6.2% NEIPA by Triple Point. In this episode, we continue to discuss how this new format will take shape and the places we hope to go both locally and further afield. We touch upon how Castleford having a professional rugby league team, Castleford Tigers, based in the town helps boost its appeal and also how Leeds United being in the Premier League also boosts the city's beer appeal.
We hope that you enjoy this new format, and if you would like to send any feedback please do so by reaching out at pointsofbrew@gmail.com. Likewise, keep up to date with the latest info and updates on our social media channels; @points_of_brew for the podcast and @basicbeerboy for Aaron.
Episode 37: Transatlantic Pilot
Welcome to the first in a new series and direction for the Points of Brew podcast as I am joined by new co-host Aaron Getliffe, brewer from Quirky Ales in Garforth. As part of this new direction and series of regular shows, we will be drinking beers out and about at various pubs, bars and breweries across Yorkshire and beyond (hopefully). This first episode sees us recording at Yorkshire Craft Beers in Castleford as it is not only the workplace of me, Stephen, but it is also where I met Aaron which we discuss on the show.
Whilst there we drink the latest collaboration between Sierra Nevada and Adnams, Eastern Edge, a 4.8% Transatlantic Pale Ale. As part of this new format, we will also discuss a central theme or topic of discussion whilst we are at our recording venue. Sadly in this first episode we discuss the closure of some breweries in recent weeks including Kelham Island and Beatnikz Republic and the hardships which they, and everyone else, are facing right now. Thanks to Yorkshire Craft Beers for hosting us and we hope you like the new format and style!
If you have any feedback, comments or suggestions as to where we should go next, please send them to pointsofbrew@gmail.com
Episode 36: Talkabout Walkabout
In this episode I am joined by Josh from Turning Point Brew Co, who heads up their sales & events team. Josh has been with the Knaresborough outfit since 2019 and he tells me his history before joining them, and how his role has been in recent times.
Whilst the event was before the recording, and has since passed, we talk about their Stout Walkabout in York which they had organised. A stout heavy trail across the city of York with never-to-be-seen again beers must surely have appealed to all local stout lovers right? Josh explains some of the beers involved and it was no wonder the event was billed to be so popular!
Thanks to Josh for joining me on the show and for more information on Turning Point, head to their website, Instagram, Facebook or Twitter page.
Episode 35: Leeds Beer Tours
Episode 34: Putty Power
In this episode I am joined by Adam Robertson, co-founder of Verdant Brewing Co. in Penryn, Cornwall. I took a different approach in this episode, and avoided the usual questions posed to Adam about their back story and formation, focussing on other topics.
Instead, we chat about the recent opening and launch of their new taproom, this year's Putty launch and how they are starting to produce cask beer for the very first time. Adam shares some insight into what it's like being based in a remote location and the challenges they have faced locally.
Huge thanks to Adam for joining me on the show, and to keep up to date with what's happening at Verdant HQ, you can head to their Insta, Twitter or Facebook pages or head to the blog on their website.
Episode 33: Mere Mortals
In this episode I am joined by Paul Grenier, co-founder & CEO of Mortalis Brewing in Avon, New York. Paul kindly agreed to be on the show after I made contact with the brewery, as he is keen to share their message and spread their brand further afield.
In this episode we chat about how the company was started after winning a local business contest, the popularity of their heavily fruited sour beers (the Hydra beers in particular) and the cult following the now have in Korea.
Thanks to Beers of America for supplying me with some Mortalis beers ahead of the show, these were kindly gifted, however if you would like to check their stock levels and other products, click here.
Huge thanks to Paul for joining me on the show, and to find out more about Mortalis you can follow them on Instagram and check out their website.
Episode 32: Bear Necessities
In this episode I am joined by Sam Bennett, owner and brewer of Grizzly Grains in Sheffield. Sam is a small-batch producer in the heart of Sheffield, producing predominantly cask beers and a range of experimental beers utilising produce from local suppliers.
Sam and I have a chat about how he started his journey in the beer world, and where he hopes to take the brewery in 2022 and beyond. Sam looks back at 2021 and the four fruited saisons, a saison using sourdough yeast and pale using a new experimental heritage barely crop grown in Sheffield.
Huge thanks to Sam for joining me on the podcast and thanks to him for providing me with some beers to try ahead of the show.
For more information about Grizzly Grains, you can find him on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook
Episode 31: Springwell Special
Alex kindly showed me around the site before we sat down on the mezzanine, overlooking the bar area and alongside the catwalk of the brewery itself. In this show Alex tells me how he came to be at North, how life started at North and how the company grew from being a singular bar to its current form now spanning several sites and producing their own beer.
Alex also shares some insight into how things have gone for North since moving over to Springwell, how Covid has affected them and their recent experience of serving time in Instagram jail. Huge thanks to Alex for allowing me to come visit their site and taking time out of his day to chat with me and show me around.
*As this episode was recorded on site and during production, there is some background noise throughout the show. This has been reduced however for the best listening experience, it is recommended you listen to this show through headphones*
Episode 30: Ply Me With Pliny
This week I am joined by very special guest co-owner and brewer of Russian River Brewing Co. Vinnie Cilurzo. Vinnie kindly took some time in the brewery to have a chat about all things Russian River and how things have been for them in recent months.
Vinnie shares his background and how he came to first work at Russian River before taking over the business and how it has grown since he first joined as brewer.
We also have a look at some of the other beers in their portfolio beyond Pliny the Elder including Blind Pig, STS Pils, Happy Hops and Mind Circus. We also finish by talking about their upcoming annual release of Pliny the Younger, their triple version of their renowned double IPA, Pliny the Elder.
Huge thanks to Vinnie for agreeing to be on the show and giving up his time to have a chat to me and I can't wait to hopefully visit and meet him in person one day!
Episode 29: Trouble Brewing In The Loire
I have a chat with Tommy about his time there and some of the troubles he faced including heatwaves, COVID, Brexit and some less-than-helpful farmyard animals making repeated breaks for freedom.
Having read some of the book, it is highly recommended and can be purchased from most online book retailers and you can find out more about Tommy on his Instagram page (Brasloubiere) and his books are available to purchase from most online retailers. Thanks to Tommy for joining me and sending a digital copy of the book to read ahead of recording the show.
Episode 28: Rock & A Hard Place
Hugo and George tell us about their recent legal struggles after facing a cease and desist order and how they are still awaiting their brew kit to be fully operational. We also take a look at George's addiction to Kings of Leon (of course) and how they are looking to shake up their local beer scene, going head-to-head with Sharps who are over the road from them.
For more details about Bluntrock, head on over to their Instagram page for all the latest updates on the brewery and the events they have in store for the coming weeks. Thanks to both George and Hugo for being on the show and sharing their journey so far.
30 Years In Craft Beer Special - Abbeydale Brewery
In this special edition of the podcast I am joined by both Laura & Dan from Abbeydale brewery who are celebrating their 25th anniversary this year. We have a look at the beers which they have brewed to celebrate reaching this milestone along with the processes, ideas and history behind them. The pair give us an insight of what it's been like to work for Abbeydale over the years they have both enjoyed there whilst Laura finishes off by telling us about their festival at the end of the year, Funkfest.
For anyone wanting to find out more about Abbeydale and the beers which they have brewed and are brewing, you can head along to their beer section on the website here.
Thanks to Laura & Dan for joining me
Episode 27: Elusive No More
In this episode I talk to Andy, founder of Elusive Brewing, as we discuss all things Elusive as they celebrate their fifth birthday this year. Andy tells us how he came to found Elusive, what he did beforehand and their five collaborations they have in the pipeline as part of their ongoing celebrations.
Elusive also kindly offered listeners a 10% discount until the end of June (POB10) should they wish to put any online orders in with them and we can highly recommend their Level Up and Oregon Trail!
To keep up to date with all things Elusive please go follow them on all social media channels and, if you're a budding brewer, submit an entry for their home-brew competition
Episode 26: George's Swansong
This time I am joined by Simon, Ricky and George of Padstow Brewing Co as we discuss their latest beer which we drink on the show; Pockarillo. A single-hop West Coast IPA showcasing Amarillo hops which has launched to coincide with this podcast
We discuss this, compare it to Pocket Rocket before moving onto the sad news that George is leaving Padstow! He explains his new venture, Lowlands Brewing, whilst Ricky details how he will try and fill the large shoes that George will be leaving behind
You can find Pockarillo on Padstow's website here; https://www.padstowbrewing.co.uk/product/pockarillo/
Episode 25: Hopped in 60 Minutes
Aaron explains how they are planning on opening and serving outdoors now pubs are able to have outdoor seating and how their schedule looks over the coming weeks and months
Thanks to Geoff from the Beer N BS show for allowing us to use their equipment and record in person for this episode, for anyone who hasn't checked their show out please do so by searching for them via all major podcast outlets
Episode 24: Tartarus Awaits
We drink two of his beers on the show; Hel, Black DIPA, and Cthulhu, Triple West Coast IPA, which are a staggering 8.9% and 12% respectively. We chat about those and his other high percentage beers he is brewing including Abaddon, his 17% Imperial Stout.
You can find out more about Tartarus at his social pages; Instagram, Twitter and Facebook
Episode 23: Eastern Promise
This week I am joined by Sean Robertson, Commercial Director, of Gwei Lo in the UK. We have a chat about Gwei Lo's history and how they started in Hong Kong, and their plans to bring Asian inspired beers to the UK. Sean also explains their current contract brewing arrangements whilst we discuss some of our favourite drinking spots and festivals.
We also have a giveaway running in this episode with three cans of their core range and a glass to giveaway, check out my Instagram and Twitter pages for how to enter!
You can find more information about Gwei Lo here; https://gweilobeer.co.uk or by heading to the Instagram or Twitter pages. You can also find Sean @BeerAgentSean
Episode 22: First Time For Everything
Tori tells us how she got into craft beer and how she came to be a co-host of A Woman's Brew alongside Joanne Love, as they try to encourage more women to share their thoughts and views on craft beer.
You can find more information about Tori's podcast here and Joanne's beer school here