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Step into the vibrant world of Wisconsin's craft beer scene as the Northwoods Beer Guy and friends explore the Between the Bluffs Beer, Wine and Cheese Festival in La Crosse. This on-location adventure captures the excitement of discovery as Mike and his crew of familiar podcast voices sample their way through dozens of unique offerings, delivering real-time reactions and expert ratings.

Wandering from booth to booth, the team encounters everything from pepper-infused pilsners that glow slightly green to dessert stouts garnished with marshmallows. They discover hidden gems like Skeleton Crew Brew's Salty Dog salted caramel porter and Marshon Cider's Snowed In Cinnamon that "tastes exactly like apple pie." Each encounter becomes a mini-masterclass in beer appreciation as they analyze flavor profiles, discuss brewing techniques, and rate each selection on their established scale.

The gang's excitement is palpable when they discover unexpected standouts like Turtle Stack's perfectly balanced Coconut Baltic Porter and North Pillar's surprisingly smooth double hazy IPA. Their candid reactions and friendly banter create an immersive experience that makes you feel like you're right there with them, sample glass in hand. Whether you're planning to attend next year's festival or simply looking to expand your craft beer knowledge, this episode provides both entertainment and education from true midwest beer enthusiasts who know how to appreciate everything from traditional styles to boundary-pushing experiments. Join the Northwoods Beer Guy for this festival tour and discover why Wisconsin's craft beer scene deserves your attention.

Thank you for listening to The Northwoods Beer Guy Podcast. If you have a question, comment or would like us to review your beer, please feel free to contact us at northbeerguy@gmail.com.

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What happens when two beer enthusiasts taste their way through seven wildly different craft beverages in a single sitting? A flavor journey that spans continents, traditions, and brewing philosophies.

Mike and Jim kick off with excited chatter about the upcoming Between the Bluffs Beer, Wine and Cheese Festival before diving into their eclectic tasting lineup. Their adventure begins with Stone Arch Brewing's Honey Wheat Ale, where they discover how honey attempts to temper wheat's distinctive character—with mixed results. The mood shifts dramatically when they crack open a Newcastle Brown Ale, finding comfort in the time-tested English classic that's been perfected since 1927.

The conversation takes a sharp turn with Lupaline's "Tropical Fun Pants," a fruit-forward experiment featuring mango, pink guava, and passion fruit that leaves them pondering whether too many flavors can compete rather than complement. Their collaborative German-style lager—a partnership between Lakefront Brewing and Hofbräu München—sparks discussion about international brewing collaborations and traditional techniques.

Perhaps most fascinating is their first-ever mead tasting on the podcast with "Kill All the Golfers," a Caddyshack-referencing black tea and lemon metheglin that challenges their palates in unexpected ways. The hosts explore the ancient origins of mead, dating back 9,000 years to northern China, while comparing it to the clean, champagne-like finish of Loon Juice's Honeycrisp hard cider.

The tasting concludes with two distinctly different offerings: Central Waters' "Semantic Satiation" West Coast IPA with its surprisingly approachable hop profile, and Hammer Heart Brewing's "Flaming Longship," a smoky Scotch ale inspired by Viking traditions and Swedish metal music that divides their opinions dramatically.

Whether you're a seasoned craft beer enthusiast or simply curious about the incredible diversity in today's brewing landscape, this episode offers thoughtful insights, honest reactions, and plenty of laughs along the way. Join Mike and Jim as they remind us that great beverages, like great conversations, bring people together—even when opinions differ.

Thank you for listening to The Northwoods Beer Guy Podcast. If you have a question, comment or would like us to review your beer, please feel free to contact us at northbeerguy@gmail.com.

You can also find us on Facebook, YouTube, X (Twitter), Instagram and Tik Tok.

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When we stepped into Boulevard Brewing Company during our Kansas City visit, we knew we were in for something special. What we didn't expect was just how masterfully this brewery has honed their craft across such diverse beer styles. Having brought back seven distinct bottles to sample, we're taking you on a flavor journey that showcases why Boulevard deserves its reputation as one of America's premier craft breweries.

From the moment we crack open the Joker's Wit Double Wit Beer with its perfectly balanced coriander notes, through the fascinating Saison Brett farmhouse ale with its distinctive earthy character, our palates are challenged and delighted in equal measure. The Dark Truth Imperial Stout delivers complex layers of espresso, roasted fig, and subtle smoke, while the Mexican Xocolatl Ale perfectly harmonizes chocolate, cinnamon, vanilla and mild chile heat in what quickly becomes one of our highest-rated offerings.

Perhaps the most remarkable discovery comes with Boulevard's Baltic Porter aged in both red wine and bourbon barrels. In an unprecedented tasting experience, we find that sipping reveals prominent wine notes, while taking larger gulps brings forth bourbon flavors – something neither of us has ever experienced in over a hundred podcast episodes. Beer can rarely surprise seasoned tasters like this, yet Boulevard manages the improbable.

The brewery's innovations continue with their Chai Imperial Stout and Espresso Martini Stout, both clocking in at a formidable 12% ABV yet drinking with remarkable smoothness. The collaboration with Kansas City's Oddly Correct coffee creates an espresso intensity that builds fascinatingly with each sip, cementing our impression that Boulevard's barrel aging program ranks among America's finest.

What truly sets Boulevard apart is their ability to create beers with pronounced, distinctive flavors that remain perfectly balanced and approachable. Whether you're a seasoned craft beer enthusiast or just beginning your journey, these offerings showcase brewing artistry at its finest. Join us as we explore the depth and breadth of Boulevard's exceptional lineup – and if you find yourself in Kansas City, their taproom is an absolute must-visit experience.

Thank you for listening to The Northwoods Beer Guy Podcast. If you have a question, comment or would like us to review your beer, please feel free to contact us at northbeerguy@gmail.com.

You can also find us on Facebook, YouTube, X (Twitter), Instagram and Tik Tok.

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A familiar voice returns to the Northwoods Beer Guy Podcast as Brian rejoins Mike after a long absence since appearances on episodes one and two. Their reunion brings a diverse lineup of six unique beers that take listeners on a journey from the shores of Hawaii to the heartland of Wisconsin.

The duo kicks off with Kona Brewing's Big Wave, a golden ale that serves as the perfect gateway beer for craft novices, before diving into more adventurous territory with 608 Brewing's scandalous "2 Hot for Chancellor" fruited sour. This beer not only delivers surprising flavor complexity but comes with local university controversy baked right into its provocative label art.

As they progress through their tasting adventure, Mike and Brian encounter everything from the subtle maltiness of New Glarus Tailwagger amber to the perfect harmony of 608's Udder Punk Maple Walnut Milk Stout. The conversation takes an aromatic turn with Burr Oak's coffee-forward Mochaccino Milkshake Porter before concluding with Lakefront Brewing's deceptively smooth 11.2% bourbon barrel-aged Honey Bock.

Between sips, the friends discuss their approach to coffee sourcing during travels, debate what makes an ideal introductory craft beer, and propose that National Beer Day should become a recognized holiday with paid time off. They also tease a potential new segment focused on documentaries they've watched, asking listeners to weigh in on the idea.

Whether you're a seasoned craft beer enthusiast or someone looking to expand your palate beyond mainstream offerings, this episode offers honest assessments of diverse beer styles and the surprising discoveries that come when brewers push creative boundaries. Pour yourself something interesting and join the conversation where warm campfires and cold beers always await.

Thank you for listening to The Northwoods Beer Guy Podcast. If you have a question, comment or would like us to review your beer, please feel free to contact us at northbeerguy@gmail.com.

You can also find us on Facebook, YouTube, X (Twitter), Instagram and Tik Tok.

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Venture into the fascinating world of barrel-aged beers as Mike and BK embark on a tasting journey that reveals just how varied and complex these special brews can be. From the moment they crack open their first beer – a velvety chocolate mint stout that transforms dramatically as it warms – to the surprising discoveries in Mobcraft's barrel-aged collection, every sip tells a story of craftsmanship and experimentation.

The conversation takes an exciting turn when they encounter Pryes Brewing's Monkey Bar, an 11% ABV imperial pastry stout that combines peanut butter, banana, chocolate, and marshmallow into what BK declares "a show and tell beer." This unexpected standout earns a spot on their potential Beer of the Year list, hiding its substantial alcohol content behind layers of dessert-like flavors that develop beautifully at proper temperature.

Temperature emerges as the unsung hero of the episode, with both hosts noting how crucial proper serving temperature is for appreciating barrel-aged beers. Cold temperatures mask complexity, while allowing beers to warm reveals their true character – a revelation that transforms their ratings throughout the tasting.

Mobcraft's barrel-aged collection offers a fascinating study in how different barrels impact the same base beer. From traditional bourbon barrels to more unusual apple brandy casks, each imparts distinctive characteristics ranging from subtle booziness to surprising tartness. The variations prompt thoughtful discussion about barrel selection, aging time, and the unpredictable nature of barrel-aging itself.

Whether you're new to barrel-aged beers or a seasoned enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights into appreciating these complex creations. Grab your favorite imperial stout, give it time to warm properly, and join Mike and BK on their flavorful exploration of what happens when brewers push the boundaries of barrel aging.

Thank you for listening to The Northwoods Beer Guy Podcast. If you have a question, comment or would like us to review your beer, please feel free to contact us at northbeerguy@gmail.com.

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When it's time to explore a brewery's full range, sometimes you discover surprising variance in quality – and Central Waters certainly delivered that experience. While renowned for their stellar barrel-aging program, what happens when these expert bourbon-barrel wizards venture into lighter, everyday beer styles?

Mike and Jim bravely sampled seven distinct Central Waters offerings – from ultra-light rice and corn lagers to hoppy pale ales, dessert-inspired stouts, a fruited sour, and ultimately, their signature bourbon barrel-aged creation. The contrast couldn't have been more dramatic.

The journey begins with barely-there flavors in their rice and corn lagers – beers that might serve as gateways for mass-market drinkers but left our hosts searching for descriptors beyond "minimal" and "light." Their pale ales followed with surprisingly aggressive hop profiles, while an ambitious Neapolitan stout promised strawberry, chocolate and vanilla but delivered primarily on tart, almost bitter strawberry notes. A peach cobbler-inspired sour similarly missed the mark with its promised flavor complexity.

Just when all seemed lost, Cassian Sunset arrived – an 11.7% bourbon barrel-aged imperial stout with coffee, vanilla and cinnamon that instantly demonstrated why Central Waters commands respect in the barrel-aging realm. This stunning contrast raised fascinating questions about brewery specialization and consistency across styles.

Between tastings, Jim quizzes Mike on brewing fundamentals, creating a fun, educational element that allows listeners to test their own craft beer knowledge. Whether you're curious about Central Waters' range, contemplating your next brewery visit, or simply enjoy authentic reactions to unexpected beer experiences, this episode offers honest insights from two passionate craft beer enthusiasts who aren't afraid to call it like they taste it.

Thank you for listening to The Northwoods Beer Guy Podcast. If you have a question, comment or would like us to review your beer, please feel free to contact us at northbeerguy@gmail.com.

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What happens when you put six Irish beers in front of two craft beer enthusiasts? A St. Patrick's Day adventure that reveals the surprising truth about Irish craft beer.

The Northwoods Beer Guy and his co-host embark on a post-holiday tasting journey through various Irish beer styles, from dry stouts to red ales and beyond. Starting with Phase 3's Claddagh Irish Dry Stout, they discover an approachable alternative to Guinness that might appeal to novice craft drinkers. As they work through The Knot Irish Red Ale, Johnny Blood Red, Busted Knuckle, and more, a pattern emerges - these craft versions struggle to match the depth and character of their established commercial counterparts.

Between sips, fascinating tidbits emerge: St. Patrick wasn't actually Irish but was kidnapped by Irish pirates; blue was originally associated with St. Patrick before green took over; and the Chicago River was first dyed green to trace sewage leaks, not celebrate the holiday. The hosts also share the amusing story of football legend Johnny "Blood" McNally, who famously negotiated his Packers contract down from $110 to $100 per week specifically to preserve his right to drink after Wednesdays.

The tasting concludes with Lakefront's Export Stout, which delivers more pronounced flavor but perhaps not in the most appealing way. This leads to a surprising admission from the typically craft-beer-championing hosts: sometimes the established brands like Guinness and Killian's might actually be the better choice when it comes to Irish beer.

As they put it, "That's why the leprechauns are so angry - they're looking for good flavorful beer!" Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast or just curious about Irish brewing traditions, this episode offers honest insights and plenty of laughs.

Join us for our next adventure and remember - may your campfire always be warm and your beer always be cold!

Thank you for listening to The Northwoods Beer Guy Podcast. If you have a question, comment or would like us to review your beer, please feel free to contact us at northbeerguy@gmail.com.

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When we walked into Smoke Brewing Company in Lee's Summit, Missouri, we were immediately struck by the explosion of St. Patrick's Day decorations covering every inch of the place. "There might be a tipping point when you go over the top," Jim observed, and this brewery was definitely testing those limits with its festive atmosphere.

Between the two of us, we sampled ten distinct beers across two carefully curated flights. The journey began with lighter offerings like their Herd of Turtles American Pilsner featuring New Zealand Wakatou hops and their Flyover Wheat with its harmonious blend of lemon peel, orange peel, and coriander. These approachable beers provided a solid foundation before we ventured into more complex territory. The contrast between their two hazy IPAs—Shelter in Haze and Galactic Vineland—highlighted the brewery's willingness to experiment within style guidelines. While the former attempted to balance notes of pineapple, melon, and berries, the latter embraced the full New England IPA experience, for better or worse. Their Celtic Cross Irish Red Ale felt right at home amid the St. Patrick's Day decor, offering classic malty depth that cleansed our palates.

As we progressed through our second flight, two clear standouts emerged. Their Oatmeal Stout, the darkest offering at 7.3% ABV, delivered remarkable complexity with subtle vanilla and caramel notes that belied its strength. "This is pretty good and it doesn't taste like 7.3%," we agreed, awarding it our highest score of the day. Their American Pale Ale followed closely behind with its balanced approach and pleasant pine character.

Throughout our visit, we also sampled their barbecue offerings—an intriguing combination with the Irish-themed atmosphere. The appetizers impressed, and the main dishes looked equally promising. Despite some beers missing the mark, the overall experience proved worthy of recommendation.

Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast passing through Missouri or a local looking for quality brews paired with barbecue, Smoke Brewing Company offers a unique experience that goes beyond just good beer. As we always say, we hope your campfires are warm and your beers are cold!

Thank you for listening to The Northwoods Beer Guy Podcast. If you have a question, comment or would like us to review your beer, please feel free to contact us at northbeerguy@gmail.com.

You can also find us on Facebook, YouTube, X (Twitter), Instagram and Tik Tok.

If you are on Untappd, look up NorthwoodsBeerGuy and send a friend request.

Subscribe to our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, YouTube Music, or wherever you listen to podcasts, or you can click on our RSS feed as well.