Ep. 116 - Reflections on Beer in 2021

For the second year in a row, as we end a year amid a pandemic, there continues to be innovation and uncertainty in the beer space. To reflect on it all host John Holl gathered some of his friends and fellow writers to talk about the year that was and what might be coming over the horizon of 2022. 

Guests this week are: 

- Christopher Shepard the senior editor of Craft Brew News, published by Beer Marketers Insights;

- Freelance writer Carla Jean Lauter;

- Matt Kirkegaard, the founder and editor of Australia Brews News;

- Andy Crouch, the publisher of Beer Edge, and the host of the beer edge podcast. 

We hoped to have Melissa Cole back with us this year, but she was unable to make it. Still she has a new book out – The Ultimate Book of Craft Beer. We encourage you to find it and buy a copy where books are sold. 

The groups talks a little business, has a little fun, and takes a walk through the green door.

Get a beer, get comfortable, and let’s have some fun. 

This Episode is sponsored by:

NZ Hops
NZ Hops, the co-operative of Master Hop Growers are a passionate collective of farms dedicated to innovation and sustainability. Leading the charge in sustainable farm practices, some NZ Hops farms have over five generations of knowledge that inform their composting program, used by growers to promote healthy regenerative growth of hops year upon year. This creates high quality soil, a critical component of healthy growing conditions. At NZ Hops, they feel that sustainability is not only being a steward for the land, but for our future.

Athletic Brewing Co.
Athletic Brewing Company’s innovative process allows them to brew great-tasting

craft beer without the alcohol. From IPAs to stouts to golden ales and more, they offer a full selection of beers starting at only 50 calories. Now you can keep your head clear and enjoy the refreshing taste of beer anytime, anywhere. Place an order today at

athleticbrewing.com and get free shipping on two six packs or more. New customers

can also get 10% off their entire order with code BeerEdge10. Limit one per customer.

For more Drink Beer, Think Beer or to check out Beer Edge: The Newsletter for Beer Professionals, follow us on Twitter @thebeeredge and subscribe to our beer industry focused newsletter. There is more information, articles, and engaging content at Beer Edge.

• Host: John Holl
• Guest: Andy Crouch, Matt Kirkegaard, Carla Jean Lauter, Christopher Shepard
• Sponsors:   NZ Hops, Athletic Brewing, and The Beer Edge
• Tags: Beer, Lager, Rauchbier, IPA, Non-Alcoholic, Brave Noise, Mergers, Sales, Cans, Bottles, Christmas