This content was originally published by The Hop Review, a digital magazine that joined the Hop Culture family in March 2020.
This piece was written by Tom White.
In this week’s Hoplinks, a Syrian beer is born in Chicago, a brewpub finally (maybe?) shutters, top beer cities are listed, Christmas beers are here, we find out what an Arboretum is, and you can relive the High Life.
Let us know what else we missed in the comments below.
CHICAGO, IL – The widespread problems created by ISIS in the Middle East are felt everywhere, but perhaps nowhere more than Syria where the country faces a massive refugee crisis. Two big names in the Chicago beer community, Illuminated Brew Works and Kaiser Tiger/Paddy Long’s Pat Berger, aim to raise awareness of the issue by collaborating on Palmyra, a table beer brewed with hibiscus and anise. $1 from each pint sold with benefit RefugeeOne. Check out our interview with Pat and IBW from earlier this year. [THR Wire]
WRIGLEYVILLE, CHICAGO – Goose Island Wrigleyville has shut its doors for the last time as it seems the 17 year run for the brewpub has finally, officially come to an end. If this all sounds like deja-vu, the brewpub has already closed and reopened in 2014 following a dispute with the landlord. Maybe there’s still a chance? [Eater Chicago]
USA – Miller High Life is re-releasing three classic TV spots this holiday season, all featuring the thoughts of the “High Life Man.” Our personal favorite is embedded below and you can watch all three on the High Life YouTube channel. [Miller High Life YouTube]
USA – As is the norm, another list of best something-or-others came through our inbox this week. This one, listing the top beer cities in the US, seems to take an entirely different approach to the question. Clearly placing a large emphasis on quality of living outside of the bar, you’ll some surprises at the top of this list. [Livability]
NORTHCENTER/WRIGLEYVILLE, CHICAGO – Irish restaurant Mrs. Murphy & Sons and Wrigley staple Murphy’s Bleachers are featuring their “12 Beers of Christmas” throughout December. If spiced beers are you thing, stop by one of the bars to sample some great examples of Christmas themed brews. [THR Wire]
LISLE, IL – The western suburban Morton Arboretum (basically a giant tree museum and preserve) is collaborating with Lake Effect Brewing to premier their first brew, Arbor Oak Amber Ale. Oak chips from the Arboretum were added at the end of the fermentation to impart oak flavors. You can try the beer for the first time on December 14th from 5-8 at the Arboretum. [THR Wire]
Photo from our interview with Illuminated Brew Works earlier this year.