Macro Beer - The Beer Thrillers

When Canada Attacked Yuengling!

paulrkan — Mon, 19 May 2025 19:44:46 +0000

When Canada Attacked Yuengling!

Thirty years ago, Canada struck at the brewing pride of Pennsylvania. The sudden, unexpected broadside was aimed at Yuengling. At stake was the very definition of “America.”

Yuengling Lager

In 1995, Yuengling wanted to trademark the slogan “America’s Oldest Brewery” for its products. Since 1829, the brewery had been making its beer in Pottsville, Pennsylvania. However, Molson Brewery objected. Founded in 1786 in Montreal, Molson not only argued that it was older than Yuengling, but Yuengling’s use of “America” was “deceptively misdescriptive.” Molson’s attorneys claimed that “America is synonymous North America,” which definitely includes Canada. For Molson, Yuengling was being dishonest with beer drinkers in the United States and around the world.

The Yuengling family was unimpressed. At the time, fifth-generation brewery owner Richard L. Yuengling Jr. quipped, “When Kate Smith stands up and sings ‘God Bless America,’ she’s not singing about Saskatchewan.” Plus, the brewery had been using its slogan since 1957 without any confusion over what country Yuengling was located.

The Trial and Appeal Board of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office took up the dispute. Molson went as far as to introduce a Webster’s dictionary of geography to show that America means North America. Yuengling responded by showing that Molson’s marketing had previously referred to the brewery as Canada’s oldest instead of America’s. Clearly, Molson understood the distinction.

Anyone who has looked at the label of a Yuengling beer lately knows the end of the story. It took nearly four years for the Board to reach its decision. For the board members, there was no evidence that “the purchasing public in the United States would equate the term ‘America’ with North America, rather than the United States of America.” Case closed.

Over twenty years later, all was forgiven. In 2020, Yuengling and Molson announced a joint venture to distribute Yuengling beer farther west… in America.

(To learn more about this dispute and Yuengling’s history, the author recommends Yuengling: A History of America’s Oldest Brewery by Mark Noon)

Paul R. Kan

Paul R. Kan is the author of Hawai’i Beer: A History of Brewing in Paradise which was a North American Guild of Beer Writers’ award winner and a #1 new release on Amazon’s Books on Beer. He has written for Good Beer Hunting and is Editor-at-Large at The Beer Thrillers. Along with beer reviews, book reviews and interviews, he also writes about the interesting ways beer intersects with people and society. His current book project is Red, White and Brew: The Beers and Battles that Shaped America. He lives in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

ʻOi kau ka lā, e hana i ola honua (While the sun yet shines, do all you can).

Paul R. Kan Articles

The following are articles that Paul R. Kan has written here for The Beer Thrillers:

For More Information on D. G. Yuengling and Sons Brewery

The following comes from Untappd.

Yuengling Brewery is a regional brewery from Pottsville, Pennsylvania. They have 22 unique beers and over 1 Million ratings. They have a global average rating of 3.43 (as of 5.19.25). Their Untappd description reads: “Based in Pottsville, PA, D.G. Yuengling & Son, Inc., America’s Oldest Brewery, is family owned and operated since 1829. Principal beer brands include Traditional Lager, Light Lager, Premium, Light, Black and Tan, Dark Brewed Porter, and Lord Chesterfield Ale. For more information, visit www.yuengling.com.”

You can find them on their social media platforms here:

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4 Ways to Incorporate Sustainable Practices Into Your Craft Brewery

Julia Nikolaus — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 04:00:29 +0000

4 Ways to Incorporate Sustainable Practices Into Your Craft Brewery

Image URL: https://www.pexels.com/photo/brass-colored-pipe-3324442/

The craft brewing industry continues to grow, with brewpubs, microbreweries, and independent taprooms thriving and attracting dedicated customers. For craft breweries, incorporating sustainability can be a valuable strategy to ensure a successful and enduring future.

A company’s sustainability is becoming a major purchasing decision, especially among younger adults. Harvard Business Review recently found that Millennials were 27% more likely than older generations to buy a product when they believed a company cared about its impact on the earth and its people.

How can your brewery implement measures to become more sustainable? Follow the tips below.

1. Conserve and Recycle Water

Everything from filling up kegs or barrels to cleaning used equipment requires water. Besides being unsustainable, wasting lots of water means facing expensive monthly water bills. Fortunately, utilizing water conservation and recycling methods can resolve excess water usage.

Some craft breweries reduce how much water they use by installing or updating their wastewater treatment systems. This somewhat simple but effective change reuses wastewater created during brewing-related processes.

Breweries using wastewater more efficiently have less dependency on fresh water. Buying water-efficient cleaning and irrigation equipment can also significantly reduce water usage for breweries.

2. Lower Energy Usage

Image URL: https://www.pexels.com/photo/blue-plastic-pail-1267361/

An effective way to lower energy consumption is by having your brewery use renewable energy. Utilizing wind energy is an effective way to become a more sustainable business. However, this type of energy isn’t typically available unless you’re near a wind power station.

Many craft breweries emphasizing sustainability increase their reliance on solar energy. After a solar panel installation, the sun’s rays shine down on these panels. Then, the business using these panels can rely on some or all of its energy needs by using solar power.

Your brewery can also begin making easier-to-implement changes on a smaller scale through an energy audit. Energy audits measure how a business uses energy, identifying where to make changes to reduce its overall electricity usage.

3. Implement Sustainable Shipping Methods

So far, you’ve learned about implementable sustainability methods to use during the brewing process. But what can your business do to be sustainable after products leave your warehouses? Focus on sustainable shipping.

There are nearly endless ways to become more sustainable through shipping changes. Your brand can send each order in a beer can shipper made from recyclable materials. Another option is to use sustainable materials as a medium for keeping a package’s contents safe.

4. Change What Happens to Brewing Waste

There’s no way to brew beer and other beverages without creating brewing-related waste. This situation leaves breweries dealing with a near-constant stream of seemingly useless grains from the brewing process. Fortunately, spent grains have many uses.

These grains remain edible while retaining most of their nutrients. Because of that, some craft breweries donate used grains to local farmers to use as compost or animal feed.

Brew a Greener Future

Staying successful in the brewing industry takes time and effort, but it can pay off in several ways. Sustainable companies often build and maintain strong relationships within nearby communities. Sustainable business practices may also lower your company’s operating expenses or help it qualify for tax-related incentives.

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The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #5 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #9 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of August 2024.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

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Elysian Brewing’s Georgetown Brewery Closure: What It Means for Seattle’s Beer Scene

B. Kline — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 01:00:28 +0000

Elysian Brewing’s Georgetown Brewery Closure: What It Means for Seattle’s Beer Scene

Seattle’s craft beer landscape is undergoing yet another shake-up as Elysian Brewing, owned by Anheuser-Busch, announced the permanent closure of its Georgetown production brewery and taproom by December 31st, 2024. This marks the end of an era for a facility that had been a significant contributor to the brand’s identity since its acquisition by the beer giant in 2015. While details are still unfolding, the closure has sparked questions, speculation, and concern within the local beer community.

Elysian Brewing Company’s Georgetown Location

Elysian Brewing’s Georgetown Brewery Closure

The End of Georgetown Production

The Georgetown brewery, known for its large-scale production of popular beers like Space Dust IPA, is shutting its doors, with reports indicating that brewing will now shift to other Anheuser-Busch facilities. The smaller, original Capitol Hill brewery—Elysian’s birthplace—will remain operational and has been touted as the future focal point for the brand. According to Elysian representatives, a $1.7 million investment will be made to expand and enhance the Capitol Hill location.

The Georgetown brewery (located at 5410 Airport Wy S, Seattle, WA 98108), is one of the largest full scale production breweries in Seattle. (It is also one of the largest across the country comparative to many of the other Top Producing Breweries.)

However, the announcement leaves many unanswered questions. What happens to Elysian’s third location, Elysian Fields, near T-Mobile Park? For now, its fate remains unclear, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the brand’s Seattle footprint.

Impact on Employees

Employee layoffs are perhaps the most sobering aspect of this closure. Conflicting reports suggest anywhere from a handful to as many as 90 workers could be affected. According to insiders, most Georgetown staff, including the Brewmaster and Lead Brewer, have already been let go, with only two employees reassigned to the Capitol Hill location.

This isn’t the first instance of such consolidation. Employees have likened the move to what happened at Golden Road Brewing, another Anheuser-Busch-owned craft brewery, where production was similarly centralized.

Did Unionization Play a Role?

Adding a layer of complexity is Elysian’s unionization efforts. In 2022, employees at the Georgetown facility voted to join the Teamsters Union, but negotiations for a labor contract reportedly stalled. Some speculate that the closure could be retaliation for unionization, although this remains unconfirmed. With Anheuser-Busch’s broader workforce already unionized, the relationship between Elysian’s closure and its union efforts remains murky.

A Changing Strategy for Craft Beer

This closure is part of a broader strategy shift for Anheuser-Busch, which recently sold off eight of its craft beer brands, including Seattle’s own Redhook, to cannabis-focused company Tilray Brands. While Elysian wasn’t included in that deal, the move signaled a departure from A-B’s previous approach to craft beer. The focus now appears to be on consolidating production and streamlining operations—a strategy that has clearly impacted Georgetown.

Capitol Hill’s Beer Evolution

Elysian’s Capitol Hill brewery will now bear the weight of the brand’s legacy. Opened in 1996, this location has been the heart of Elysian Brewing, and the company plans to invest in its infrastructure to support both brewing and customer experiences. However, for fans of Elysian’s larger-scale offerings, future batches will be brewed outside Seattle, potentially altering the perception of the once-local favorite.

The move also highlights Capitol Hill’s shifting beer scene. Recent years have seen major changes, such as Stoup Brewing’s acquisition of Optimism Brewing and the sale of Redhook’s E Pike Brewlab to Tilray. Smaller breweries like Outer Planet Brewing remain resilient examples of independent craft beer, but Elysian’s closure underscores the challenges and transformations within the local industry.

What’s Next for Elysian and Seattle Beer Fans?

While Anheuser-Busch paints the closure as an opportunity to refocus on Capitol Hill, many in the community are left questioning what this means for Seattle’s craft beer identity. For now, Elysian enthusiasts can still visit the Capitol Hill pub to enjoy their favorite beers, but the shift in production raises questions about how connected the brand will remain to its Seattle roots.

For beer lovers in the Pacific Northwest, this news serves as a reminder of the ever-changing dynamics of the craft beer industry. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Elysian’s Space Dust or a casual beer enthusiast, the closure of the Georgetown facility is a bittersweet chapter in the brand’s story. As the dust settles, one thing remains clear: the Seattle beer scene is evolving, and local beer lovers will be watching closely to see what comes next.

What are your thoughts on Elysian Brewing’s closure? Have you visited their Capitol Hill pub recently? Share your experiences in the comments below or let us know your favorite Seattle brewery!

(Stay updated on craft beer news by following The Beer Thrillers!)

More Information on Elysian Brewing Company

The following comes via Untappd.

Elysian Brewing Company, a Subsidiary of Anheuser-Busch InBev, is a macro brewery from Seattle, Washington. They have 878 unique beers and over 1.5 Million ratings, with a global average rating of 3.74 (as of 11.15.24). Their Untappd description reads: “We opened our doors in 1996 when bold art and music defined Seattle. Over the past 25 years, we’ve carried this same spirit in the way we brew our beer – shaking up classic styles, using unusual ingredients, and learning from experimentation. Come chase down the rabbit hole with us.”

You can find them at the following social media platforms:

Elysian Brewing Company – Official Website
Elysian Brewing Company – Facebook
Elysian Brewing Company – Instagram
Elysian Brewing Company – Twitter
Elysian Brewing Company – Untappd

Brewery News

Interested in finding out about many other brewery openings, new locations, closings, movings, and in general brewery news? You can check out our links below:

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If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

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The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #5 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #9 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of August 2024.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

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Craft Beer vs. Regular Beer: Exploring the Differences

B. Kline — Sun, 28 Jan 2024 16:27:15 +0000

Craft Beer vs. Regular Beer: Exploring the Differences

In the ever-expanding world of beer, two terms often surface, creating a buzz among enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike: craft beer and regular beer. While both ultimately serve the same purpose—quenching thirst and offering a spectrum of flavors—the paths they take from brewery to glass are markedly different. This article delves into the essence of craft beer, contrasts it with regular beer, and explores the factors that distinguish one from the other.

The Craft Beer Identity

Craft beer is synonymous with creativity, quality, and local flavor. It’s produced by small, independent breweries—craft breweries—that prioritize innovation, taste, and traditional brewing methods. The Brewers Association, a key authority in the craft brewing industry, defines craft breweries based on three criteria: small, independent, and traditional. This means they produce a limited amount of beer, are independently owned, and focus on quality, flavor, and brewing technique.

The Regular Beer Landscape

Regular beer, often referred to as “macro beer” or “commercial beer,” is produced by large-scale breweries with a global presence. These breweries prioritize consistency and accessibility, ensuring that a beer bought in one country tastes the same as one bought on another continent. Brands like Budweiser, Coors, and Heineken dominate this segment, offering products that appeal to a broad audience with their mild flavors and approachable profiles.

Distinguishing Factors

1. Scale of Production

One of the most significant differences lies in the scale of production. Craft breweries produce beer in smaller batches, allowing for greater flexibility, experimentation, and attention to detail. In contrast, macro breweries focus on large-scale production to meet global demand, often at the expense of diversity and innovation.

2. Ingredients and Innovation

Craft brewers are known for their experimental approach to ingredients and brewing methods. They often incorporate local, unconventional, or seasonal ingredients, resulting in a wide array of unique flavors and styles. Regular beers, however, tend to stick to a standard recipe to maintain flavor consistency across the board.

3. Flavor Profiles

Craft beers generally offer more complex and varied flavor profiles compared to their regular counterparts. From the hoppy bitterness of an IPA to the rich, dark notes of a stout, craft beers can range widely in taste, aroma, and appearance. Regular beers, while enjoyable, usually provide a more consistent and less adventurous drinking experience.

4. Community and Culture

Craft breweries often serve as community hubs, reflecting local culture and preferences. They support local economies, engage with their customers on a personal level, and contribute to regional identity. Macro breweries, with their global reach, cannot replicate this level of local involvement and personal touch.

5. Price Point

Due to the use of high-quality ingredients, smaller scale production, and artisanal methods, craft beer often comes at a higher price point compared to regular beer. Consumers pay for the experience, diversity, and quality that craft beers offer.

Conclusion: A Matter of Preference

Choosing between craft and regular beer boils down to personal preference. Do you value the consistency and familiarity of a global brand, or do you seek the unique, locally-produced flavors that craft breweries offer? Perhaps the real joy lies in exploring the vast spectrum of beers available, appreciating the craftsmanship and tradition behind each pour. Whether you’re a devout craft beer aficionado or a regular beer enthusiast, the world of beer has something for everyone.

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If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

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MAPS OF BREWERIES

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

Please be sure to follow us on our social media accounts – Facebook, Facebook Group, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Influence. As well as our brand new Tumblr page. Please be sure to also follow, like, subscribe to the blog here itself to keep updated. We love to hear from you guys, so be sure to leave a comment and let us know what you think!

The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #7 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #8 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of January 2023.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

Macro Beer - The Beer Thrillers

When Canada Attacked Yuengling!

When Canada Attacked Yuengling!

Paul R. Kan

Paul R. Kan Articles

Other Yuengling Articles

More Articles About Canada

For More Information on D. G. Yuengling and Sons Brewery

Thank You For Reading

4 Ways to Incorporate Sustainable Practices Into Your Craft Brewery

4 Ways to Incorporate Sustainable Practices Into Your Craft Brewery

1. Conserve and Recycle Water

2. Lower Energy Usage

3. Implement Sustainable Shipping Methods

4. Change What Happens to Brewing Waste

Brew a Greener Future

Thank You For Reading

Elysian Brewing’s Georgetown Brewery Closure: What It Means for Seattle’s Beer Scene

Elysian Brewing’s Georgetown Brewery Closure: What It Means for Seattle’s Beer Scene

Elysian Brewing’s Georgetown Brewery Closure

The End of Georgetown Production

Impact on Employees

Did Unionization Play a Role?

A Changing Strategy for Craft Beer

Capitol Hill’s Beer Evolution

What’s Next for Elysian and Seattle Beer Fans?

More Information on Elysian Brewing Company

Brewery News

Thank You For Reading

Craft Beer vs. Regular Beer: Exploring the Differences

Craft Beer vs. Regular Beer: Exploring the Differences

Craft Beer vs. Regular Beer: Exploring the Differences

The Craft Beer Identity

The Regular Beer Landscape

Distinguishing Factors

1. Scale of Production

2. Ingredients and Innovation

3. Flavor Profiles

4. Community and Culture

5. Price Point

Conclusion: A Matter of Preference

Thank You For Reading