A Woman’s Brew

In this Bucket List Beers episode, we’re diving into one of the most iconic saisons out there—Saison Dupont. Joanne is firmly in her happy place, while Tori has a bit of a “wait… I have had this before” moment. Together, we explore whether this legendary Belgian beer really lives up to its reputation as the saison. Along the way, we chat about the charm (and possible myths) behind the saison style, share our first impressions, and compare it with a couple of very different modern takes on the style. Expect plenty of tasting notes, a few unexpected tangents, and some strong opinions on what makes a saison truly special. As always, there’s talk of food pairings, beer geekery, and a little bit of chaos—plus a reminder of why some beers earn their place on the bucket list. Grab a glass and come drink along with us. Check out our saison and grisette episode here: https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-wger3-173d366 Find out more about DuPont’s history here: https://www.brasserie-dupont.com/en/our-history/ Hop Culture’s article on Saison DuPont: https://www.hopculture.com/saison-dupont-beer-review/ Get in Touch: Website: https://awomansbrewpod.beer/ Email: awomansbrewpodcast@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awomansbrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWomansBrew Tori: @adventures_in_hoptimism Joanne: @lovebeerlearning Jo’s website: http://www.lovebeerlearning.co.uk Support us: https://ko-fi.com/awomansbrew Join our 2025 drinking challenge here Subscribe: PodbeaniTunesSpotifyTuneIn Watch: YouTube Music: Higher Up by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

We’re so excited to finally welcome back one of our favourite returning guests—Emma from Merakai—and honestly, it feels like no time has passed (even if it’s technically been three years 😅). In this episode, we catch up on everything that’s happened since we last spoke: from launching their Worthing taproom to navigating the realities of running a small, independent brewery in a tough climate. Emma shares how Merakai has evolved, including the decision to scale back production in order to stay sustainable—something we think is such an important and often overlooked conversation in the craft beer world. It’s a brilliant reminder that success doesn’t have to mean “bigger”—sometimes it’s about building something meaningful, manageable, and rooted in community. We also dive into the heart of what makes Merakai so special: the people. From their welcoming, inclusive taproom (where beer is literally brewed on-site!) to events like International Women’s Collaboration Brew Day and Pastry Palooza, it’s clear that community is at the centre of everything they do. We chat about the joy of creating spaces where everyone feels comfortable exploring beer—whether that’s through guided tastings, collaborations, or just having a friendly chat at the bar. And of course, we couldn’t finish without talking about their brand new crowdfunder! Emma shares what’s next for Merakai, from investing in new brewing equipment to reimagining their taproom space to make it even more accessible and community-focused. There’s so much passion, honesty, and resilience in this conversation, and we’re just so proud to see how far they’ve come. If you love great beer, grassroots businesses, and hearing the real stories behind them—this one’s for you. 🍻 Check out their crowdfunder here: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/merakai-next-chapter And find out more at their website: https://www.merakaibrewing.com/ Or Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/merakai_brewing/ Get in Touch: Website: https://awomansbrewpod.beer/ Email: awomansbrewpodcast@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awomansbrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWomansBrew Tori: @adventures_in_hoptimism Joanne: @lovebeerlearning Jo’s website: http://www.lovebeerlearning.co.uk Support us: https://ko-fi.com/awomansbrew Join our 2025 drinking challenge here Subscribe: PodbeaniTunesSpotifyTuneIn Watch: YouTube Music: Higher Up by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

In this episode, we dive headfirst into the wonderfully nerdy world of hop breeding, sparked by our shared stash of Dolcita (formerly HBC 1019) pellets. What starts as a casual “shall we talk about this?” quickly turns into a full-on exploration of how new hop varieties are created—from experimental crosses and field trials to pilot brews and, eventually, commercial release. Along the way, we chat about why hop breeding matters more than ever, especially in the face of climate change, shifting beer trends, and the very real impact of brewery closures on the wider supply chain. Basically: hops are way more complicated (and fascinating) than they might seem. We also get stuck into some experimental hopped beers, comparing notes on flavours, from delicate citrus and cantaloupe to coconut, peach rings, and tropical daiquiri vibes. As always, there’s a mix of proper brewing insight and our own reactions—plus a healthy dose of disbelief at hop farmers who can apparently hear when hops are ready to harvest (Tori is still not convinced, sorry). We dig into how flavour perception works, how suppliers choose and blend hops for consistency, and why the same hop can taste different year to year. Finally, we shine a spotlight on Dolcita itself—its surprisingly quick development, unique flavour profile, and the science behind why it works so well in beer. From its “little sweetie” name origin to its high geraniol content and versatility in brewing, it’s a great example of what modern hop breeding is all about. Whether you’re a beer geek, a casual drinker, or just here for the vibes, this episode is a love letter to hops, experimentation, and the people behind the scenes making your pint taste amazing. 🍻 Here is the beer analytics website Tori found: https://www.beer-analytics.com/hops/dual-purpose/hbc-638/ The Beervana blog post about Dolcita: https://www.beervanablog.com/beervana/2025/8/28/the-hop-that-earned-its-name-dolcita Learn more about the HBC program and Dolcita here: https://www.hopbreeding.com/ Get in Touch: Website: https://awomansbrewpod.beer/ Email: awomansbrewpodcast@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awomansbrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWomansBrew Tori: @adventures_in_hoptimism Joanne: @lovebeerlearning Jo’s website: http://www.lovebeerlearning.co.uk Support us: https://ko-fi.com/awomansbrew Join our 2025 drinking challenge here Subscribe: PodbeaniTunesSpotifyTuneIn Watch: YouTube Music: Higher Up by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

In this episode of A Woman’s Brew, we head to Bristol to chat with Kezia and Rosie from Bristol Beer Factory about their 2026 International Women’s Collaboration Brew Day beer, Cowgirl Supernova. Rosie, one of BBF’s female brewers, and Kezia from the marketing team talk us through how the brewery handed the reins over to the women of the company to design the beer from the ground up—from recipe to branding. The result? A rebellious Kölsch IPA brewed with the Pink Boots hop blend, Nelson Sauvin, and even a touch of sorghum to reflect the brewers’ South African and New Zealand heritage. It’s crisp, fruity, and unexpectedly sessionable—and yes, Jo (a self-confessed Kölsch sceptic) ended up loving it. We also dive into the story behind the name Cowgirl Supernova, inspired by the BBF women’s “Pink Ponies” WhatsApp group and the bold, fun energy of the brew day itself. Kezia shares how the creative brief for the beer’s branding embraced that rebellious spirit, resulting in a vibrant design full of disco lights, cowboy hats, and unapologetic colour. The conversation highlights how empowering it can be when breweries actively create space for women across departments—brewing, marketing, and beyond—to shape the final product. Beyond the beer itself, we explore Bristol Beer Factory’s Brewed To Give initiative, which sets aside 2% of brewery sales to support local charities and community groups. For this International Women’s Day release, profits are being shared between four organisations supporting women, migrant communities, and LGBTQ+ groups in Bristol. It’s a brilliant example of how a collaboration brew can celebrate great beer while also strengthening the communities around it—and exactly the kind of story we love sharing on the podcast. Read more about the beer here: https://www.bristolbeerfactory.co.uk/blogs/news/iwd-with-bbf Buy the beer here: https://www.bristolbeerfactory.co.uk/products/cowgirl-supernova Follow Bristol Beer Factory on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/bristolbeerfactory/ BBF’s charity partners: https://eastoncowfolk.org.uk/womens-football/ https://one25.org.uk/ https://www.projectmama.org/ https://www.transpridebristol.org.uk/ Get in Touch: Website: https://awomansbrewpod.beer/ Email: awomansbrewpodcast@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awomansbrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWomansBrew Tori: @adventures_in_hoptimism Joanne: @lovebeerlearning Jo’s website: http://www.lovebeerlearning.co.uk Support us: https://ko-fi.com/awomansbrew Join our 2025 drinking challenge here Subscribe: PodbeaniTunesSpotifyTuneIn Watch: YouTube Music: Higher Up by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

In this prehistoric party of a Bucket List Beers episode, we finally get stuck into the iconic Sue line-up from Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. — starting with the legendary Pseudo Sue before levelling up to King Sue. While only one of them officially makes it into the bucket list books, we couldn’t resist putting both (okay… three) to the test. From that unmistakable Citra burst in Pseudo Sue — all juicy citrus, mango and soft malt sweetness — to the dangerously smooth, 8.2% imperialised glow-up that is King Sue, we explore whether these hyped-up hazies truly earn their global reputation. Spoiler: one of them seriously reignites our love for classic Citra-forward pale ales. We dig into the story behind the brewery’s meteoric rise from nano system to destination beer mecca in Iowa (yes, Iowa!), and the surprisingly wholesome trademark tale involving Field Museum and the famous T-Rex “Sue.” Instead of a legal battle, we got collaboration — and we love to see it. Along the way, we compare awards, Untappd stats, Beer Advocate rankings, and debate whether bigger (and stronger) really means better when it comes to hazy dippers. Expect hop chat, imperial IPA origins, “juicy DIPA” giggles, and some serious danger juice energy. And because we can’t help ourselves, we also personify Pseudo Sue into a neon-dino, museum-hopping, craft-beer-loving icon who absolutely would get told off for touching the fossil displays. Is she our new best friend? Quite possibly. But the real question is: which Sue would make your bucket list? 🍻 Get in Touch: Website: https://awomansbrewpod.beer/ Email: awomansbrewpodcast@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awomansbrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWomansBrew Tori: @adventures_in_hoptimism Joanne: @lovebeerlearning Jo’s website: http://www.lovebeerlearning.co.uk Support us: https://ko-fi.com/awomansbrew Join our 2025 drinking challenge here Subscribe: PodbeaniTunesSpotifyTuneIn Watch: YouTube Music: Higher Up by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

In this special Valentine’s Day episode of A Woman’s Brew, we’re celebrating love in all its forms—romantic, platonic, and definitely beer-related! We dive into how to craft the perfect beer pairing for a romantic date night, from selecting the ideal flight to sharing a few heartwarming (and hilarious) stories about how beer has played a role in our relationships. Whether it’s a love for beer, breweries, or even our favourite beer-related traditions, we’re here for it all. We may not be the biggest fans of Valentine’s Day (no cards, no flowers), but we’re all in when it comes to planning the ultimate brewery date night. Think cozy spots, great brews, and food that’s definitely more than just a sad bowl of nuts. From tips on choosing the right venue for your first date to how to make the experience feel extra special, we cover it all. So grab your favourite beer, get comfy, and let’s raise a glass to love, beer, and everything in between! Cheers to a fun, beer-filled Valentine’s celebration! Beer pairing for date night: https://mojavecider.com/blog/say-i-do-to-these-romantic-beer-pairings-for-date-night Breweries for date nights: https://www.thelondoneconomic.com/lifestyle/londons-best-bars-for-a-first-date-3287 Last minute Valentine’s activities needed? Check out Jo’s beer tasting kits here: https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/1386712002/valentines-beer-and-chocolate-pairing?ref=shop_home_active_2&dd=1&logging_key=7285c6700743586ea1265284fec9961b0dee61b8%3A1386712002 https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/1395279683/valentines-blind-beer-tasting-kit?ref=shop_home_active_1&dd=1&logging_key=e08f04c54b81595cfbe951160ae4aa83df20c5ac%3A1395279683 Bookshop Crawl website: https://www.bookshopcrawl.co.uk/londonprogramme Get in Touch: Website: https://awomansbrewpod.beer/ Email: awomansbrewpodcast@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awomansbrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWomansBrew Tori: @adventures_in_hoptimism Joanne: @lovebeerlearning Jo’s website: http://www.lovebeerlearning.co.uk Support us: https://ko-fi.com/awomansbrew Join our 2025 drinking challenge here Subscribe: PodbeaniTunesSpotifyTuneIn Watch: YouTube Music: Higher Up by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

In this episode of A Woman’s Brew, we’re officially dusting off the crystal ball and looking ahead to what beer might look like in 2026. Fresh off a reset—new goals, new microphones, and a renewed sense of purpose—we dig into why now feels like the right moment to talk trends. With lagers in our glasses, we reflect on the state of the industry, the post-COVID reality for breweries, and why stories of decline don’t tell the full picture. Beer, as ever, is cyclical, resilient, and deeply tied to how and why people choose to gather. We chat through some standout insights from recent trend pieces, including the idea that Gen Z isn’t “killing beer,” but simply approaching it differently—seeking flavour, quality, and experience over volume. From the supposed rise of the “golden lager” to the continued popularity of hazy beers, we unpack what feels genuinely meaningful versus what might just be hype. We also touch on the resurgence of iconic brands like Guinness, how smart (and sometimes surprising) marketing can shift drinking habits, and why accessibility—both in flavour and format—matters more than ever. Finally, we turn our attention to what might be heading our way in the UK: a broader range of lager styles, evolving packaging formats, drinks beyond beer, and the continued growth of low- and no-alcohol options. As always, we approach it with curiosity rather than certainty. Whether it’s a smoked lager, a tiny can, or a genuinely good alcohol-free stout, our hope for 2026 is simple: more choice, more inclusivity, and more reasons to enjoy great beer together. Em Sauter's Forbes Article: https://www.forbes.com/sites/emsauter/2026/01/07/craft-beers-current-trends-show-its-cyclical-resilience/ Lotte Peplow's article: https://www.morningadvertiser.co.uk/Article/2025/12/08/five-us-craft-beer-trends-heading-to-uk/ Vinepair trends article: https://vinepair.com/articles/drinks-trends-to-watch-2026/ Get in Touch: Website: https://awomansbrewpod.beer/ Email: awomansbrewpodcast@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awomansbrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWomansBrew Tori: @adventures_in_hoptimism Joanne: @lovebeerlearning Jo’s website: http://www.lovebeerlearning.co.uk Support us: https://ko-fi.com/awomansbrew Join our 2025 drinking challenge here Subscribe: PodbeaniTunesSpotifyTuneIn Watch: YouTube Music: Higher Up by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

In this episode of A Woman’s Brew, we’re calling last orders on 2025 and raising a glass to a fresh start in 2026. We chat through our end-of-year rewind, reflecting on what was a surprisingly huge year for the podcast, even when life, travel, and work got wildly busy. From rethinking how we structure our wrap-ups (goodbye quarterlies, hello half-years) to acknowledging just how high a bar we accidentally set for ourselves, this episode is very much about taking stock, having a laugh, and giving ourselves a bit of grace. As always, beer is at the heart of the conversation. We talk about what we’re drinking, from winter warmers and nostalgic classics to truly bucket-list beers (yes, that one), alongside stories of travel, thoughtful gifts, and the realities of beer shopping on both sides of the Atlantic. There’s plenty of honest chat about changing drinking habits, tracking beers (or not), Untappd stats, favourite styles, and how our year in beer looks very different to previous ones — fewer check-ins, but no less love for great flavour and memorable moments. We also get real about burnout, social media overwhelm, and why it’s okay to disappear into a cocoon sometimes. This episode is a gentle reset: a reminder that beer should be joyful, not stressful, and that it’s fine to step back, simplify, and do things differently. Here’s to saging the vibes, being a bit more “Yoncé” (IYKYK) in 2026, and continuing our mission to get more people drinking and talking about great beer. 🍻 Get in Touch: Website: https://awomansbrewpod.beer/ Email: awomansbrewpodcast@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awomansbrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWomansBrew Tori: @adventures_in_hoptimism Joanne: @lovebeerlearning Jo’s website: http://www.lovebeerlearning.co.uk Support us: https://ko-fi.com/awomansbrew Join our 2025 drinking challenge here Subscribe: PodbeaniTunesSpotifyTuneIn Watch: YouTube Music: Higher Up by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

In this Bucket List Beer episode, we finally sit down with one of the most talked-about and divisive classics in the beer world: Duchesse de Bourgogne. From the very first pour, this conversation becomes as much about ritual and anticipation as it is about flavour — from glassware choices and careful bottle-conditioned pours to the (very real) emotional impact of not having the right cheese to hand. We talk honestly about why this Flemish Red has earned such an iconic reputation, how it balances tartness, malt sweetness, oak and balsamic notes, and why it feels less like “just a beer” and more like a luxury experience. As hosts, we dig into what makes Duchesse such a standout within the Flanders Red style, unpacking its history, production methods, and why its sourness is complex rather than sharp. We reflect on how this beer challenges expectations — especially for sour lovers and traditional beer drinkers alike — and why it can be both a gateway beer for wine drinkers and a polarising first sip for the uninitiated. Along the way, we share tasting notes, food pairing ideas (cheese, obviously, but also roasts and even salads), and our own evolving relationship with a beer we keep coming back to. We also place Duchesse firmly in its Bucket List Beer status, discussing where it appears (and surprisingly doesn’t appear) in classic beer books, its legacy alongside breweries like Rodenbach, and why cultural reputation matters just as much as printed lists. Whether you’re already devoted to Flemish Reds or still wondering if a beer that tastes like balsamic vinegar could possibly be for you, this episode is a love letter to one of Belgium’s most regal, misunderstood, and rewarding beers. Get in Touch: Website: https://awomansbrewpod.beer/ Email: awomansbrewpodcast@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awomansbrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWomansBrew Tori: @adventures_in_hoptimism Joanne: @lovebeerlearning Jo’s website: http://www.lovebeerlearning.co.uk Support us: https://ko-fi.com/awomansbrew Join our 2025 drinking challenge here Subscribe: PodbeaniTunesSpotifyTuneIn Watch: YouTube Music: Higher Up by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

In this festive episode of A Women’s Brew, we dive head-first into the most chaotic and comforting corner of Christmas: Quality Street, Roses, Heroes, Celebrations… and the Vault City beers inspired by them. We kick things off by sorting ourselves into our “chocolate houses,” reminiscing about the glory days of Woolworths pick-and-mix, and fiercely debating which sweets truly count as Christmas classics. Along the way, we discover that not all orange chocolates are created equal, that desiccated coconut remains controversial, and that some beers deserve to be enjoyed without any chocolate interference whatsoever. From chocolate-orange sours that somehow turn into Christmas-morning mimosas, to a coconut-strawberry concoction that tastes like boozy strawberry yogurt, to the absolute star of the episode—the stunning Truffle Berry Bliss—we taste our way through Vault City’s festive lineup and (attempt to) pair each beer with its confectionery counterpart. There are big reactions, bigger opinions, and a surprising amount of emotional processing about textures, ABVs, and holiday breakfast traditions. We also share some of our favourite Christmas-and-beer memories, chat about the myths around “festive” beers, and peek at what we’re excited to crack open this holiday season. Whether you’re Team Roses, Team Celebrations, or simply here for the chaos, pour yourself something seasonal and join us for this merry, sweary, sweet-filled festive episode. Get in Touch: Website: https://awomansbrewpod.beer/ Email: awomansbrewpodcast@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awomansbrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWomansBrew Tori: @adventures_in_hoptimism Joanne: @lovebeerlearning Jo’s website: http://www.lovebeerlearning.co.uk Support us: https://ko-fi.com/awomansbrew Jo's Etsy Shop: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/LoveBeerLearning Join our 2025 drinking challenge here Subscribe: PodbeaniTunesSpotifyTuneIn Watch: YouTube Music: Higher Up by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

In this episode of A Woman’s Brew, we’re joined by the brilliant Lucy and Lizzy of Closet Brewing—Scotland’s only openly queer-owned brewery. We chat about their journey from literally brewing in a cupboard in their Leith flat to becoming a fast-growing, award-winning brewery known for bold flavours, community focus, and killer artwork. From exploding fermenters at 3am to DIY mash tuns crafted from Tesco coolers, the pair share the chaotic, hilarious, and deeply personal beginnings of their brewing story. We dive into the evolution of Closet Brewing: scaling up equipment, learning the hard realities of brewing commercially, and balancing being brewers, business owners, marketers, event managers—and occasional electricians. They talk us through the science (and cake-based experimentation!) that led to beers like their beloved lavender pale ale, Gal Pals, and give us a peek into their incredible queer artist collaboration programme responsible for some of the most eye-catching labels in UK craft beer—frog butts and all. Finally, we explore Closet’s commitment to queer community, accessibility, and creating spaces that uplift and celebrate everyone. The duo share their pride in award wins, their manifesting list for the next few years (a taproom?!), and how much their success is rooted in the village of people who support them. So, check out their newly reopened webshop, grab a beer and settle in for an episode full of heart, humour, and truly excellent brews. Visit Closet Brewing at their website and grab some beers here, there is also 10% off merch until the end of 2025! https://closetbrewing.com/ If you are in Leith, grab a beer at The Bowler’s Rest: https://bowlersrest.com/ Find them on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/closetbrewing/ And the artists you should look into: Jumper designs by Audrey Subra @aud_pizzanova – https://www.instagram.com/aud_pizzanova/ @zuzamakes - They're Turning The Friggin Frogs Gay, Thine Cup Runneth Over – https://www.instagram.com/zuzamakes/ @gawrjuhsart - Lemon Soul, Bright Young Things – https://www.instagram.com/gawrjuhsart/ @ajd.illustrates - Gal Pals – https://www.instagram.com/ajd.illustrates/ @hamillustration - Fault Lines, Hidden Track – https://www.instagram.com/hamillustration/ @hicarbi - Freudian Slip – https://www.instagram.com/hicarbi/ @enbean_art - Spectre, Vampire Spa Day – https://www.instagram.com/enbean_art/ @_lostastronaut - Lost in the Sauce – https://www.instagram.com/_lostastronaut/ @ergi.world - Alex, Lucy's sibling, Tattooist and designer of several of our early can labels inc. GOAT, Mieter*innen, Smoke Signals and Last Train Out of Manchester – https://www.instagram.com/ergi.world/ @scotsqueerfilm – SQIFF https://www.instagram.com/scotsqueerfilm/ Get in Touch: Website: https://awomansbrewpod.beer/ Email: awomansbrewpodcast@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awomansbrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWomansBrew Tori: @adventures_in_hoptimism Joanne: @lovebeerlearning Jo’s website: http://www.lovebeerlearning.co.uk Support us: https://ko-fi.com/awomansbrew Join our 2025 drinking challenge here Subscribe: PodbeaniTunesSpotifyTuneIn Watch: YouTube Music: Higher Up by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

We’re back! We finally reunite after a whirlwind of holiday travel, festivals, and award ceremonies! In this bumper November catch-up (or “Novembeer,” as we’ve christened it!), we catch you up on our latest globe-trotting escapades in Germany, the US, and Japan. We celebrate some massive milestones—like Joanne winning Beer Communicator of the Year at the Women in Beer Awards and being shortlisted for 2 British Guild of Beer Writers awards while Tori regales us with tales of navigating Tokyo’s subways and finding a Sapporo Vintage 2025 lager. Tune in for our usual blend of beer geekery, silly tangents (Modelo! Dessert Dash! Dirndls for any occasion!), and a deep dive into beer industry news. We discuss new World Beer Cup categories, non-alcoholic beer trends in Germany, and the surprising uses of AI in Japanese craft brewing. Plus, find out how Untappd’s latest expansion has us rethinking our beer tracking habits. Grab a beer, settle in, and get ready for plenty of laughs—and maybe a few travel tips—straight from your two favourite beer-loving presenters! Links we mentioned: World Beer Cup introduces new categories: https://www.worldbeercup.org/news/registration-now-open-for-the-2026-world-beer-cup/ German non-alcoholic beer sales boom: https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/10/11/germany-nonalcoholic-beer-sales-boom/ Global non-alcoholic beer market growth: https://www.brewersjournal.ca/2025/09/03/global-non-alcoholic-beer-market-set-for-robust-growth-projected-to-reach-usd-43-9-billion-by-2035/ Non-alcoholic beer sales: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/non-alcoholic-beer-sales-9-194518058.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com&guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly9jaGF0Z3B0LmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAABHkwqz6WHn-EPW6wiQ4MOGryoSaaVDSAOdko5KhDrR9FA3tsLX_yITQjLY08QasdBtxqQpLFFnhk8VtDHc3Y6zvOggRVgdQmdx2KkKV_Jk694qHYqw0VpzvxI5zq0Qca1uOdo1Bq6hdXm66kO479urtKoLyCE5TQdiMY7_HglCK Innis & Gunn recreate 150 year old beer: https://uk.news.yahoo.com/rare-bottle-150-old-beer-134642397.html AI-driven fermentation time: https://asiabrewersnetwork.com/news/ai-driven-fermentation-time-of-craft-beer-cut-by-28-in-japan-trial?utm_source=chatgpt.com Untappd expands beyond beer: https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2025/11/untappd-expands-beyond-the-beer-category/ Get in Touch: Website: https://awomansbrewpod.beer/ Email: awomansbrewpodcast@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awomansbrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWomansBrew Tori: @adventures_in_hoptimism Joanne: @lovebeerlearning Jo’s website: http://www.lovebeerlearning.co.uk Support us: https://ko-fi.com/awomansbrew Join our 2025 drinking challenge here Subscribe: PodbeaniTunesSpotifyTuneIn Watch: YouTube Music: Higher Up by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

In this episode, we’re cracking open a true bucket-list classic: Allagash White. We share our personal history with this iconic Belgian-style witbier—how we’ve somehow managed to drink loads of it over the years without logging it on Untappd, the memories it brings back for both of us, and the pure joy of that first coriander-and-orange-kissed sip. From flipping the can to “rouse the yeast,” to admiring that unmistakable milky sheen, this beer had us grinning right from the pour. We also take you through what makes a proper witbier, diving into BJCP style notes and talking aroma, flavour, and mouthfeel—because yes, we’re going full beer geek on this one. We look at Allagash Brewing’s story, the early struggles to get people on board with hazy Belgian flavours, and how it eventually became the most-awarded witbier in the world. And of course, we go off on our usual tangents—everything from airport beer choices to seafood pairings we’ll never eat, to the eternal debate over frosty mugs. If you love wheat beers—or think you don’t—this episode is a ride. So grab an Allagash White if you can, pour it into your fanciest glass (or whatever’s clean), and drink along with us. Cheers, friends! 🍻 Links we mentioned: About Allagash: https://www.allagash.com/about/our-story/ Vinepair article: https://vinepair.com/articles/the-oral-history-of-allagash-white/ Hop Culture article: https://www.hopculture.com/11-things-you-didnt-know-about-allagash-white/ Food and Wine article: https://www.foodandwine.com/hefeweizen-vs-witbier-what-s-the-difference-8657632?utm_source=chatgpt.com Reddit Article: https://www.reddit.com/r/52weeksofbaking/comments/f5hxq8/week_5_beverage_pairing_allagash_white_inspired/ Under the Jenfluence – BJCP prep videos here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpb8Fu5Y8LU4zkqj6qAexh41JtPf9TYYo Her deep dive into Belgian beers here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SygcOSkdKpw&list=PLpb8Fu5Y8LU4zkqj6qAexh41JtPf9TYYo&index=13&t=21s Get in Touch: Website: https://awomansbrewpod.beer/ Email: awomansbrewpodcast@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awomansbrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWomansBrew Tori: @adventures_in_hoptimism Joanne: @lovebeerlearning Jo’s website: http://www.lovebeerlearning.co.uk Support us: https://ko-fi.com/awomansbrew Join our 2025 drinking challenge here Subscribe: PodbeaniTunesSpotifyTuneIn Watch: YouTube Music: Higher Up by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

It’s our 5th birthday! 🎉 In this episode, we’re raising a glass (or five) to celebrate five years of A Woman’s Brew. From our very first chat about Burnt Mill and women head brewers, to 243 episodes, 73 interviews, countless styles explored, and more pumpkin spice beers than we probably should admit—we’re looking back at the journey with plenty of laughter and a few stats that even surprised us. Along the way, we share memories of recording in conservatories, battling Zoom’s time limits, and figuring out if hanging duvets for soundproofing was really necessary. To mark the occasion, we each picked five beers that represent different parts of the podcast’s history—from our Burnt Mill beginnings to pumpkin spice indulgences and beyond. Expect quiz questions, tangents galore, and a celebratory cheers to everyone who’s joined us over the years. With more than 25,000 downloads and so many brilliant conversations with brewers, beer lovers, and beer-adjacent creatives, we’re feeling grateful, giddy, and just a little bit nostalgic. Here’s to five years of beers, cheers, and brilliant company—and to the next round still to come! 🍻 Get in Touch: Website: https://awomansbrewpod.beer/ Email: awomansbrewpodcast@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awomansbrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWomansBrew Tori: @adventures_in_hoptimism Joanne: @lovebeerlearning Jo’s website: http://www.lovebeerlearning.co.uk Support us: https://ko-fi.com/awomansbrew Join our 2025 drinking challenge here Subscribe: PodbeaniTunesSpotifyTuneIn Watch: YouTube Music: Higher Up by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

This week we’re putting on our lab coats and goggles for a true beer geek adventure—yeast experiments! We cracked open a special set of four collaboration beers from Elusive, UnBarred, and Lallemand, each brewed with the same malt and hops but fermented with different yeast strains. To help us navigate the science (and keep us from bumbling our way through too many Google searches), we’re joined by the brilliant Alix from Lallemand. She dives deep into why yeast is way more than just the alcohol-maker—it’s the flavour-shaper, aroma-creator, and unsung hero of brewing. Together, we taste through the lineup—comparing the clean, sherbety BRY-97 with the juicy peach-citrus hit of Aurora, the Belgian-style farmhouse tang of Saison, and the clove-and-banana whispers of the Wit strain. Along the way, Alix drops some absolute gems about biotransformation, hybrid yeast strains, and even the art of “schmooing” yeast cells (yes, that’s a thing!). We also chat about brewers breaking yeast “rules,” the challenges of low-alcohol brewing, and—of course—the importance of good socks and merch in the beer world. It’s equal parts nerdy and fun, and by the end, you’ll never look at yeast the same way again. 🍻 Find out more about Lallemand here: https://www.lallemandbrewing.com/en/global Find the beers here: https://www.elusivebrewing.com/buy-bottled-beer Get in Touch: Website: https://awomansbrewpod.beer/ Email: awomansbrewpodcast@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awomansbrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWomansBrew Tori: @adventures_in_hoptimism Joanne: @lovebeerlearning Jo’s website: http://www.lovebeerlearning.co.uk Support us: https://ko-fi.com/awomansbrew Join our 2025 drinking challenge here Subscribe: PodbeaniTunesSpotifyTuneIn Watch: YouTube Music: Higher Up by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

This week, we’re back with our old friend Jaipur IPA—but with a twist (or three)! Since it’s Jaipur’s anniversary, Thornbridge have released some special variants, and of course we had to try them. We’ve got Hazy Jaipur, Pink Grapefruit Jaipur, and Jaipur Faith (a collab with Northern Monk) lined up, and we’re sharing our thoughts, tasting notes, and plenty of laughs along the way. We’ll also dig into what actually makes a beer hazy, bust some common myths, and chat through the science behind that soft, pillowy mouthfeel we love. Plus, you know us—expect tangents about Charmed, Ghostbusters, fruity vs. piney hops, and some spicy hot takes from the beer community. So grab yourself a Jaipur (or three!) and join us as we celebrate one of Britain’s modern classics, explore its variants, and prove once again that busting myths really does make us feel good! Get in Touch: Website: https://awomansbrewpod.beer/ Email: awomansbrewpodcast@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awomansbrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWomansBrew Tori: @adventures_in_hoptimism Joanne: @lovebeerlearning Jo’s website: http://www.lovebeerlearning.co.uk Support us: https://ko-fi.com/awomansbrew Join our 2025 drinking challenge here Subscribe: PodbeaniTunesSpotifyTuneIn Watch: YouTube Music: Higher Up by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

This week on A Women’s Brew, we’re geeking out over one of the most fascinating bits of brewing heritage — the Burton Union system — and sharing how Thornbridge Brewery has rescued part of it for a new chapter in Bakewell. We kick things off with some quality sticker chat, a Queer Brewing shirt reveal, and the story of our very mismatched bottle openers before cracking open two Thornbridge beers brewed on their very own “Thornbridge Set.” Expect tasting notes that range from cosy, rainy-day pub corners to sunny beer garden sessions. Jo takes you on a trip through the history of the Union system — how it was designed in the 1800s to create crystal-clear, flavour-packed ales, why it almost disappeared in 2024, and how brewing legend Garrett Oliver stepped in to make sure it lived on at Thornbridge and Epochal. Along the way, we share what makes this setup so unique (there are swan necks, troughs, and a lot of cleaning involved), and we even throw a bit of shade at Firestone Walker’s bucket-based “adaptation.” And because we can’t resist having some fun with our beer facts, Tori brings out 100% fictional, 110% fun “facts” about the Thornbridge Set — haunted barrels, jazzy saxophone pipes, and hedgehog hydration included. Whether you’re a beer history buff, a brewing process nerd, or just here for the laughs, you’ll have a pint’s worth of fun with us. Here are the articles we reference in the episode: Roger Prost’s article https://wb.camra.org.uk/2024/06/24/beautiful-beast-now-brewing-in-bakewell Thornbridge blog post https://thornbridgebrewery.co.uk/pages/union?srsltid=AfmBOoo9fXuxZ5kKsYjHUbhnn5NX06iZiLAYyVa_o0wRpDhD7bIbE596 Anthony Gladman article with diagram: Once More for the Union Get in Touch: Website: https://awomansbrewpod.beer/ Email: awomansbrewpodcast@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awomansbrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWomansBrew Tori: @adventures_in_hoptimism Joanne: @lovebeerlearning Jo’s website: http://www.lovebeerlearning.co.uk Support us: https://ko-fi.com/awomansbrew Join our 2025 drinking challenge here Subscribe: PodbeaniTunesSpotifyTuneIn Watch: YouTube Music: Higher Up by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

In this hilarious and heartwarming episode of A Woman's Brew, Tori and Joanne welcome back fan-favourite Tom Bacon for a deep dive into the quirks and charms of Northern British pub culture. From the legend of the meat raffle to the mystery of why every walk to and from a Sheffield pub is somehow uphill, Tom shares his encyclopaedic and entertaining knowledge of pub traditions, language oddities, and cask beer etiquette. Expect tales of bread cakes, sandwich knives, and the enduring debate around sparkler usage. The trio dig into what makes a proper pub—from sticky floors and unwelcoming stares to lovingly rude bar staff—and highlight some of their favourite watering holes across the UK. Whether you're a seasoned pub-goer or just pub-curious, this episode is packed with insights into what makes these community spaces so special. They even discuss creating a collaborative Google Map of their top picks, so listeners can join in the pub-crawling fun. As always, the conversation is as educational as it is chaotic. Tom quizzes the hosts on British pub trivia (do you know the most common pub name in the UK?), reveals why meat hampers are a perfectly normal prize, and passionately champions the cultural importance of cask beer. If you’ve ever wondered how to spot a working men's club or what a Wigan kebab really is, this is the episode for you. Don’t forget to support your local—it might just be hiding the best pint and pie of your life. And here is our collaborative map of great pubs – add your faves as well: https://www.google.com/maps/@51.2257671,1.1870816,14z/data=!4m3!11m2!2snOZjwUXGTeuTcMJ2i270VQ!3e3?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDcyOS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D Get in Touch: Website: https://awomansbrewpod.beer/ Email: awomansbrewpodcast@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awomansbrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWomansBrew Tori: @adventures_in_hoptimism Joanne: @lovebeerlearning Jo’s website: http://www.lovebeerlearning.co.uk Support us: https://ko-fi.com/awomansbrew Join our 2025 drinking challenge here Subscribe: PodbeaniTunesSpotifyTuneIn Watch: YouTube Music: Higher Up by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

It’s time for another quarterly catch-up on A Woman’s Brew, where we dive deep into our beer journeys and reflect on the highs, lows, and chaos of the past three months. We embrace the spirit of imperfection and decide what goals are serving us and which we should Marie Kondo! We share the latest on our evolving beer goals, tracking progress against ever-expanding spreadsheets and the ever-challenging Untappd style checklist. Get a peek behind the scenes as we discuss the thrill (and sometimes frustration) of seeking out beers with unusual ingredients (hello, squid ink!), completing can rainbows, and tackling prompts from the “Drink Harder” Challenge. Of course, there’s plenty of chat about standout drinking moments—from wild experiences at festivals to awkward (but empowering) returns of off pints at the bar. Expect laughs as we dig into the nuances of cask beer, the complexity of Untappd’s ever-shifting categories, and the genuine delight of recommending, swapping, and sipping beers together. Whether you’re meticulously tracking your beer styles or just here for the laughs let us know how your 2025 is going so far! And if you want to join us on the A Woman’s Brew Drinking Challenge, you can download the prompts PDF here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KMP2T9RRaaM8XA-jbj4XIyu-QCvX56iD/view?usp=drive_link Get in Touch: Website: https://awomansbrewpod.beer/ Email: awomansbrewpodcast@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awomansbrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWomansBrew Tori: @adventures_in_hoptimism Joanne: @lovebeerlearning Jo’s website: http://www.lovebeerlearning.co.uk Support us: https://ko-fi.com/awomansbrew Join our 2025 drinking challenge here Subscribe: PodbeaniTunesSpotifyTuneIn Watch: YouTube Music: Higher Up by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

In this episode of A Woman’s Brew, we look at our next bucket list beer and take a deep dive into one of the UK’s most influential beers: Thornbridge’s Jaipur. Celebrating 20 years of this modern classic, we crack open both the original Jaipur IPA and its alcohol-free sibling, to see if the peak beer of the Peak District still holds up. Expect honest tasting notes, thoughts on what makes Jaipur such a fridge staple, and plenty of laughter about surprising flavor finds — including the unmistakable Maris Otter malt backbone. We break down how Jaipur helped shape the UK craft scene by bringing bold American hops to British drinkers back in 2005, and share a quick Thornbridge history lesson — from stables in Derbyshire to award-winning brews and legendary collaborations. We also compare how the alcohol-free version stacks up against the original, chatting through the pros and cons for designated drivers who still want a hoppy hit. Beyond the beer, Joanne and Tori swap stories about visiting Thornbridge’s impressive Bakewell taproom (yes, there’s pizza and barbecue-ready meats too!) and give top tips for a Peak District brewery weekend. And, true to form, we go on the best kind of tangents: Bakewell tarts vs. puddings and a cheeky AI experiment that brings “Gavin Thornby” — the imaginary personification of Jaipur — hilariously to life. Whether you’re a Jaipur veteran or a curious newbie, this episode is a love letter to a beer that’s stood the test of time. Join as we toast to Thornbridge’s legacy — and maybe inspire you to plan your own brewery road trip soon! Get in Touch: Website: https://awomansbrewpod.beer/ Email: awomansbrewpodcast@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awomansbrew/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWomansBrew Tori: @adventures_in_hoptimism Joanne: @lovebeerlearning Jo’s website: http://www.lovebeerlearning.co.uk Support us: https://ko-fi.com/awomansbrew Join our 2025 drinking challenge here Subscribe: PodbeaniTunesSpotifyTuneIn Watch: YouTube Music: Higher Up by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com