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, the merger is finally happening, Indiana brewers brew with corn, one of our favorite beer festivals is just around the corner, the UK scene continues to blossom, and a well known southern brewery hits the Windy City. Let us know your thoughts on all of this and more in the comments.
GLOBAL — The big news over the last week was the shareholder approval of the long awaited AB InBev takeover of rival SABMiller. This marks the last major hurdle with the merger expected to complete on the 10th of October. The new mega-corporation will control hundreds of brands and produce nearly a third of the world’s beer. [BBC News]
INDIANA — The Indiana Brewers Guild is making a big push to unify the state’s craft fans through the IN Beer Brigade — similar to Illinois’ ImBIBE program. The first collaboration brew from the group, Corn King IPA, showcases the talents of some of the best brewers of Northwest Indiana and was brewed at 3 Floyds. Good luck getting your hands on any however, as the beer is available to Beer Brigade members only. [Brew Studs]
CHICAGO, IL — FoBAB, the Festival of Wood and Barrel-Aged Beers, is just over a month away and we’re already getting excited for everything the fantastic event offers. This just released video highlighting the road brewers take to the festival is sure to get you ready for some barrel aged brews. And in case you need more, check out the new FOBAB Instagram account and their “Know Your Styles” posts. [THR Wire]
UNITED KINGDOM — The craft beer movement has long been a global phenomenon and that holds true in the UK, a country that has in the past remained committed to traditional methods and styles. The number of UK breweries has increased by 8% over the past year, bringing the number of breweries to around 17,000. You can check out our perspective on London’s booming scene on the Bermondsey Beer Mile. [The Guardian]
LAKEVIEW, CHICAGO — West Lakeview’s Corridor Brewery & Provisions is celebrating their one year anniversary with events throughout next week. Check out the full schedule here including a special beer release and the start of their “Beer League,” the brewery’s take on a mug club which includes several other benefits. [THR Wire]
WOOLRICH, PA — In an unlikely industry pairing, outdoor clothing company Woolrich and Dogfish Head are collaborating for the release of Pennsylvania Tuxedo, as well as a special edition clothing line. Available in late October across the Dogfish distribution map, the spruce-infused pale ale pays homage to the red and black plaid wool outfits traditionally worn by hunters in the deep woods of Pennsylvania. [THR Wire]
MEMPHIS, TN — Wiseacre, one of Tennessee’s most well respected brewers, is entering the Chicago market this month and they’ve set up a lengthy event schedule to kick things off. We haven’t had the chance to sample their beer aside from the excellent Alfalfa King collab with Off Color and 3 Floyds so expect to see us out there. [THR Wire]
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Photo of the crowds sampling the barrel-aged beers at FoBAB 2015 at the UIC Forum — by Jack Muldowney.