Assemblage Beverage Podcast

In this special send-off episode, Mason and Adam raise a glass to life’s highs, lows, and everything in between. They talk about the importance of celebrating—not just the big wins, but also the lessons that come with losses—and share the beverages that make those moments memorable. From bubbles and bitters to comfort pours, it’s all about marking the occasion.As The Assemblage Beverage Podcast takes a pause, Mason heads to Italy to celebrate his birthday, while Adam and his wife prepare to welcome their first child. To all our listeners: thank you for tuning in, sharing a glass with us, and being part of our journey through 90 episodes. This isn’t goodbye forever—just a pause while we celebrate some big life moments. We can’t wait to raise a glass with you again soon. Until then, keep exploring, keep tasting, and keep celebrating.Question of the Day: What is the next celebratory event in your life?Shoutout to our Sponsor, Shoe's Pizzeria! We are here to celebrate Mason's early birthday and Adam and Olivia!! This podcast is dedicated to baby shoe sponsored by Shoe’s Pizzería. I think I can say for everyone, we cannot wait to welcome him into this world and join our crazy life! You know the first word will be Pizza! Go tell Chris that Mason, Adam and Baby Shoe sent you! Go check out Shoe’s at 3300 N. Calumet Avenue in Valparaiso, IN.

In this episode, Mason and Adam crack open the world of hard seltzers—from the grocery aisle classics to the bar-ready craft versions. They break down the difference between malt-based seltzers (the kind that built the craze with mass appeal, light profiles, and beer-adjacent production) versus spirit-based seltzers made with vodka or tequila (bringing cleaner flavor, higher-quality ingredients, and cocktail-like versatility).The guys discuss how each category fits into the wider drinking culture, where malt still dominates shelves, and how spirit-based seltzers are carving out space as premium, occasion-driven choices. Question of the Day: Malt or Spirit based seltzers?Sponsor: Bubble bubble pop. Crack sizzle bubble bubble pop. Crisp refreshing. Mmmmmm mmmmmm gooood. That’s the sound of a refreshing drink. And you know what goes so good with refreshing drinks? Shoes pizza! Go to tell Chris you need some good pop with your amazing hand made pizza by the man myth the legend himself. Don’t forget to mention Adam and Mason sent you. Go check out Shoe’s at 3300 N. Calumet Avenue in Valparaiso, IN.

In this flavor deep dive, Mason and Adam pull back the curtain on how flavors are built. From the chemistry behind natural extracts to the artistry of crafting artificial flavor compounds, they explore the science and creativity that shape what we taste in our glasses. Whether it’s the citrus pop in a spritz, the vanilla in your bourbon, or the tropical notes in a hard seltzer, the boys break down how these flavors are created—and why they matter. Question of the Day: When picking a beverage, what flavors do you tend to lean towards?Shoe's Pizzeria Ad Read: Today’s podcast is all about flavor and learning how the architect builds and balances that flavor. You know who has been a flavor architect for over 15 years? Chris from Shoe’s Pizzeria. They have been crafting unbelievable flavors from their hot and cheesy pizza, crispy and spicy wings, salty fries, and frosty draft beer. Go check out Shoe’s at 3300 N. Calumet Avenue in Valparaiso, IN. Tell Chris that Mason & Adam say what’s up dog.

On episode eighty seven of The Assemblage Beverage Podcast, Mason + Adam discover some new beverages and drinking traditions found around the world. The boys dig into the fermentation of Tepache, Palm Wine, and Raki before they dive into how different cultures enjoy beverages in social settings.Question of the day: What culture’s drinking tradition are you going to add to your regular ritual?Ad Read: While we might be talking about some lesser known beverages, our sponsor of today’s podcast is known around the Midwest as the best pizzeria around. Shoe’s Pizzeria has been slinging pizza, wings, subs and apps for over 15 years. Go check them out at 3300 N. Calumet Ave, Valparaiso, IN. Tell Chris that Mason + Adam say hello.

In this reflective and flavorful episode, Mason and Adam explore the role of time in every sip. From the long journey of grains to glass in spirits, to the patience behind vine to bottle in wine, and the precision it takes to craft the perfect cocktail—timing is everything. They also unpack how time of day, season, and even mood influence how and what they drink. Whether it’s an afternoon spritz or a winter nightcap, this episode is all about honoring the moments that make beverages shine.Question of the day: What stage in your life are you compared to the alcoholic beverage?Shout out to our sponsor, Shoe’s Pizzeria, who has spent some time as our sponsor here at The Assemblage Beverage Podcast and they have been open for some time too. They have over 15 years of serving northwest Indiana high quality pizza, wings, subs, salads and ice cold beers.  And this is all thanks to the main man in charge, Chris. He has led his team to keep a high standard of food and service. Next time you are in Valparaiso, go check them out at 3300 N. Calumet Ave. and when you are there, tell Chris that Adam + Mason say “what’s good”

In this episode, Mason and Adam take you on a tour through the diverse and dynamic wine regions of Northern Italy. From the alpine elegance of Alto Adige to the rolling hills of Piedmont, and the sparkling lakeside vineyards of Veneto, they break down the hallmark red and white grapes that define the area. Expect insights on everything from Nebbiolo and Barbera to Pinot Grigio and Gavi, as well as a dive into the wine styles that make Northern Italy a powerhouse—think Barolo, Amarone, and Franciacorta. Whether you're a sommelier, wine student, or just a curious drinker, this episode is packed with takeaways that will make you want to plan your trip to Northern Italy!Question of the Day: What is the most iconic grape/wine style in Northern Italy?Shoe's Pizzeria Ad Read: Shoe’s Pizzeria has been a proud sponsor of The Assemblage Beverage Podcast for a few years now and we could not be more grateful. I am going to visit Shoe’s in a few weeks, and Mason, I am not sure what I am the most excited about. The cheesy pizza, the spicy chicken wings, the crispy fried pickles, or the ice cold beers, there is a little bit of something for everyone. If you are in Valparaiso, go check them out at 3300 N. Calumet Ave. Tell Chris that Mason + Adam say “WAZZZZZ UPPPPP”

In this episode of The Assemblage Beverage Podcast, Mason + Adam take a deep dive into one of the world’s most debated grapes—Chardonnay. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a long-time skeptic, this conversation is for you.They unpack the myths and misconceptions surrounding this versatile varietal, explore the wide range of styles from lean and mineral-driven to rich and buttery, and highlight notable producers and regions across the globe—from Burgundy to California, and beyond.Get ready to challenge your assumptions and maybe even discover a new favorite bottle. So... Chardo-nay or Chardo-yay? Tune in and decide for yourself.Question of the Day: Do you prefer old world style (un-oaked) or new world style (oaked) Chardonnay? Why?Shoe's Pizzeria Ad Read: Keeping with our theme for this podcast, I need you to answer with the following: Nayyy or Yayyy. Sound good? Has Shoe’s Pizzeria been an incredible sponsor? YAYYY Does Shoe’s Pizzeria have amazing pizza, wings, subs, salads, and appetizers? YAYYY Is there a better restaurant than Shoe’s Pizzeria in Valparaiso? NAYYYY Do they have the coldest beers? YAYYY Is the owner, Chris Shoemaker, an absolute gem?YAYYY Go check them out at 3300 N Calumet Avenue in Valparaiso, Indiana. Tell Chris that Adam and Mason said “Yayyyy”

In this episode of The Assemblage Beverage Podcast, Mason and Adam take a deep dive into the storied past of some of the most iconic cocktails ever created: the Martini, Margarita, and Old Fashioned. These timeless drinks aren't just bar staples—they're the blueprint for countless modern cocktails. Join the conversation as the boys explore the origins, myths, and cultural influence of these legendary libations, and uncover how they continue to shape mixology today. Whether you're a seasoned bartender or a curious sipper, this episode is a toast to the classics that never go out of style.Question of the Day: What is your favorite classic cocktail, and how do you like it served?Ad Read: Shoe’s Pizzeria has been a flagship sponsor of the podcast for almost 2 years now, and we are so grateful for their support. They have the best pizza, wings, subs, appetizers, salads, coldest beers and pops north of the equator. Go check them out in Valparaiso, IN. Tell Chris that Mason + Adam sent you.

In this episode of The Assemblage Beverage Podcast, the boys dive deep into the rich world of Iberian wines. Join them as they explore the iconic wine regions of Spain and Portugal, from the sun-drenched vineyards of Rioja to the rolling hills of the Douro Valley. They break down the main subregions, share fascinating insights into local winemaking traditions, and touch on the complexities of wine labeling in the Iberian Peninsula. Whether you're a wine aficionado or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable information. Plus, a special shoutout to our sponsor, Shoe's Pizzeria, who has been serving up top-tier pizza in Valparaiso for nearly as long as Spain has been perfecting Rioja. Tune in for a blend of great conversation and delicious wines!Don't forget to subscribe, and enjoy the sip!

Mason and Adam crack open a cold one and dive into the world of breakfast beers—because who says beer isn’t a morning beverage? In this episode, they break down different beer styles, decode beer bottle verbiage, and share their go-to brews for any time of day.Question of the Day: If you were to mysteriously disappear from your house, what kind of beer would naturally ferment with what’s left behind?Special thanks to our sponsor, Shoe’s Pizzeria—because nothing pairs better with a beer than a great slice. And hey, let’s not forget… 99 bottles of beer on the wall, 99 bottles of beer, take one down, pass it around, 98 bottles of beer on the wallPour yourself a pint and tune in!