Craft Maltsters Guild To Celebrate Third Annual Craft Malt Month

NATIONAL— Craft Malt Month by the Craft Maltsters Guild is a celebration of this grassroots movement toward more resilient and sustainable grain supply chains that make better tasting beer and spirits. 

Now in its third year, Craft Malt Month will take place in September of 2026. This is a community-wide celebration of farmers, maltsters, brewers, distillers, and consumers that spreads the word about the small grains movement and why it matters. 

"Craft Malt Month is our chance to pull back the curtain on what makes great craft beer and spirits ... the malt! Every event, pour, and post this September helps build a stronger, more informed community while supporting those who grow, malt, brew, and distill,” says Steve Clark, President of the Craft Maltsters Guild Board of Directors. “We encourage everyone, from lifelong industry folks to first-time craft beer and spirit drinkers, to join in."

Malthouses, breweries, and distilleries are planning Guild fundraisers, events, and educational opportunities to celebrate Craft Malt Month across North America. Find the full calendar of events and submit yours at CraftMaltMonth.com. 

All are encouraged to join the conversation by using the #CraftMaltMonth hashtag and tagging the Guild @craftmalting on Instagram, Facebook, Linkedin, and X throughout September.

For more information about Craft Malt Month, visit craftmaltmonth.com. Media inquiring about Craft Malt Month and the Craft Maltsters Guild can contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com.

ABOUT THE CRAFT MALTSTERS GUILD

Formed in 2013, the Craft Maltsters Guild’s mission is to promote and sustain the tradition of craft malting in North America, provide services and resources to the Association’s members, and uphold the highest quality and safety standards for Craft Maltsters. Learn more about the Craft Maltsters Guild at www.craftmalting.com. 

Riverbend Malt House Introduces Ridgeline Red

ASHEVILLE, NC— In response to their brewing customers’ requests for a red-hued malt option with versatile usage opportunities across ale and lager styles, Riverbend Malt House presents Ridgeline Red. 

Fresh off the kiln and now available for purchase, this new malt opens with an inviting aroma of toasted grains, bread crust, and rich honey before shifting into a complex layer of figs and raisins. It closes with a palate-cleansing loose leaf tea finish. Great for red ales and lagers of all kinds, Ridgeline Red can be used for up to 100% of the grain bill, yielding brilliant amber color.

After recent trials, here’s what these brewers across the Southeast had to say about Ridgeline Red: 

“It worked great as a base malt and was on par with the efficiency of Riverbend pilsner in my brewhouse. The pH was lower than I anticipated though— good to expect and adjust in the mash.” — Mark Goodwin, Cellarest Beer Project 

"Thanks for trusting us to pilot some of this new malt. I think the beer and color are awesome!" — Jason Ford, NOFO Brew Co. 

“We made our Holler Atcha West Coast IPA with Ridgeline Red; it looks and tastes exactly as it should!” — Ray Dobens, Salt Face Mule Brewing Co.

Find a Ridgeline Red flavor wheel and even more details at riverbendmalt.com. Place an order by emailing orders@riverbendmalt.com. Media inquiring about Riverbend Malt House can contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com. 

ABOUT RIVERBEND MALT HOUSE

Riverbend Malt House is on a quest to connect Southeastern family owned farms and fermenters. Co-Founders Brent Manning and Brian Simpson launched Riverbend, the first craft malthouse east of the Mississippi River, in Asheville, North Carolina in 2010. Buoyed by a 70,000 foot production facility and state of the art equipment, Riverbend Malt House helps breweries and distilleries large, small, and in-between stand out with flavor, locality, and community in an increasingly competitive landscape— all the while challenging the status quo of corporate, big-agriculture malt. Learn more at riverbendmalt.com.

Celebrate Oktoberfest Season With Lone Tree Brewing Lagers

COLORADO— Oktoberfest season will tap at Lone Tree Brewing on August 7 when the brewery releases their traditional Oktoberfest in cans. They’ll bring back their classic Helles recipe in the tasting rooms at their Oktoberfest celebrations in September.

Crafted with traditional European malts and German Hallertau Mittelfruh hops, the amber-hued Lone Tree Oktoberfest is a 5.5% ABV lager with rich, toasty and bready flavors, minimal bitterness, and a dry finish. Find it on tap and in canned 12oz. 6-packs at both of the brewery tasting rooms in Lone Tree and Parker, and distributed across Colorado by Elite Brands— all while supplies last.

Lone Tree Helles, originally named Mountain Mama Helles, will return for German-style lager season exclusively at Lone Tree Brewing Main near Park Meadows Mall and at Lone Tree Brewing Parker. Similar to Oktoberfest, the selected malts showcase all the foundational German attributes from Weyermann’s heirloom varieties. The Lone Tree brewers chose to ferment the Helles with another iconic yeast strain to mimic the traditional Augustiner flavor profiles, leaving the drinker with a rich, malty-sweet experience. It will be on draft alongside Oktoberfest at each of the taprooms Oktoberfest celebrations, slated for September 5 (Parker) and September 12 (Lone Tree), and available in limited 6-packs to-go. 

“We rarely get to make Helles anymore, and we have always loved this style,” says Jerry Siote, Lone Tree Brewing Director of Operations. “The new label provides a refreshed look that fits in perfectly with our flagship and seasonal lineups, while reminding our drinkers of a classic lager that opened the doors for us 15 years ago — look for it in our mixed packs this season.” 

Check Lone Tree Brewing’s Facebook and Instagram channels for Oktoberfest event details. Media interested in attending or sampling these beers can contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com.

ABOUT LONE TREE BREWING 

Lone Tree Brewing Company was the first brewery to open in Lone Tree, Colorado in Denver’s South Metro area in 2011, and has remained a local staple for more than a decade. Now deeply rooted in this community, the brewing company is growing friends at its two tasting rooms– the original location near Park Meadows Mall in Lone Tree, and Lone Tree Brewing Parker in the heart of Parker, Colorado. Visit the brewery online at lonetreebrewingco.com.

Alaskan Brewing Co. Commemorates 40 Years with Limited Edition 40 Pack

JUNEAU, AK— For Alaskan Brewing Co., 40 years is both an amazing milestone and a stepping stone along the path of its continued legacy. To celebrate four decades of crafting authentically Alaskan, community and employee-owned beer, the brewery has released a variety pack like no brewery has released before. Introducing the Alaskan 40 pack.

Loaded with four cans each of ten of Alaskan’s signature beers, this 40 pack is perhaps the largest variety pack ever assembled by a craft brewery. It includes Alaskan Amber, Husky IPA, Kölsch, Icy Bay IPA, White Ale, Class 5 Pale Ale, Juneau Juice IPA, Excursion West Coast IPA, Ascender Pale Ale, and Wildness. It was made as a thank you from Alaskan to its fans to give them a reason to gather that’s also reasonably priced. 

“What I love about our 40 pack and what I’d love to see come back is that notion of ‘lets go have a beer’,” says Geoff Larson, Alaskan Co-Founder. “Let's sit down and talk and have a beer. Invite friends over, open up the 40-pack, celebrate, and enjoy.” 

As pioneering leaders in the craft beverage industry, Alaskan Brewing adds this 40 pack to a history of innovations implemented, awards achieved, and even patents acquired over the years. Founders Geoff and Marcy Larson’s vision for their truly Alaskan operation, run by Alaskans and inspired by the surrounding wilderness has come to life through the tenacity and grit required to live and work in its vast frontier. 

Craft beer lovers in Alaska and Alaskan’s additional 24-state footprint can find the Alaskan 40 pack starting now in select retailers while supplies last. Share your 40th anniversary celebrations on social media with @alaskanbrewing and the hashtag #Alaskan40

Media are invited to join Alaskan Brewing Co. leaders at a virtual 40th anniversary press conference, slated for Tuesday, August 25 at 1pm Pacific. RSVP to this exclusive media event and inquire about the Alaskan Brewing 40 pack by emailing Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com. 

ABOUT ALASKAN BREWING CO. 

In 1986, Geoff and Marcy Larson founded Alaskan Brewing Company, the first brewery to operate in Juneau, Alaska in almost 100 years– and they want to be around for a hundred more. This employee and community-owned craft beer institution remains authentic to its name: each beverage is brewed and packaged in Juneau, by Alaskans, using local ingredients and inspired by historical recipes and the Alaskan lifestyle. Their highly decorated beers, crafted with pure Alaska waters and Alaskan ingenuity, are available in 24 of the Lower 48 states and counting. Visit Alaskan online at alaskanbeer.com.

Oktoberfest Season Taps At Ska Brewing

DURANGO, CO— Oktoberfest season begins this Fresh Beer Friday at Ska Brewing’s World Headquarters when the Ska Oktoberfest taps and rolls out in cans. This award-winning lager will be available across the brewery’s distribution footprint out west while supplies last.

Back in 2018 when Ska first debuted their Oktoberfest in cans, the beer scored a gold medal at the Great American Beer Festival® in the Vienna-style Lager category. It has since earned awards at the European Beer Star and The Stockholm Beer and Whiskey Festival. Crafted with all-European Munich and Vienna malts and classic German lagering techniques, this amber-brown hued lager is nutty, bready, and toasty with a clean, neutral yeast flavor on the finish. 

“We realize releasing an Oktoberfest while it’s still 105 degrees outside is a little like putting up Christmas lights before Halloween,” said Ska Brewing Co-Founder Dave Thibodeau. “But the beer is ready, fall will get here eventually, and patience is only our virtue until the lagering is done.” 

Get this lager on tap at Ska Brewing in Durango beginning this Friday at 11am. The brewery will offer up German-inspired eats that day, and guests can score a specialty stein made for the occasion. It will be on tap from there on out, but only while supplies last. 

Ska is also excited to serve their Oktoberfest at Durango’s resurrected Oktoberfest celebration from September 26-27, as well as Oktoberfest Cortez and Montrose Oktoberfest— also on September 26. 

For more information about Ska Brewing’s Oktoberfest Lager or any of their internationally renowned beers, contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com.

ABOUT SKA BREWING

Founded in the spirit of punk rock and a little bit of ska, Ska Brewing has been challenging the status quo and brewing beers that refuse to conform since 1995. From the iconic Mexican Logger to the rebellious Modus Hoperandi IPA, Ska Brewing is dedicated to crafting unforgettable beers and beverages that are as unique as the people who drink them. For more information, samples, or just to chat about how great peaches are, contact Ska Brewing at info@skabrewing.com or visit our website at www.skabrewing.com.

Murphy & Rude Malting Co. Joins Forces With Carolina Malt House In Strategic Partnership

CLEVELAND, NC— Murphy & Rude Malting Co. and Carolina Malt House are thrilled to announce a strategic partnership and merger of operations, combining Murphy & Rude's specialty malt, roasting equipment, and roasting expertise with Carolina Malt House's world-class, custom-designed base malt and high-kiln malting machinery. 

These two time-honored craft maltsters from Virginia and North Carolina believe this partnership will greatly benefit brewers and distillers in the Mid-Atlantic and Southern regions with more product diversity and more affordable pricing of the thoughtfully grown and sourced ingredients that both companies already prioritize.  It not only retains both brands' deep commitment to regionally grown grains and the distinctive flavors of craft malt, but also leverages each respective maltster’s expertise and equipment to form a one-stop shop with more diversified product offerings and a wider geographic footprint.

Murphy & Rude’s roasting equipment will be relocated to Carolina Malt House in Cleveland, North Carolina, where all of its malts will now be manufactured. Customers can expect the same high standards they are accustomed to, including the continued production of Murphy & Rude’s Virginia Pils, which will continue to be crafted with 100 percent Virginia-grown barley. Other Murphy & Rude Malting products, including English Pale, five Crystal malts, and eight dry-roasted malts will soon be offered alongside Carolina Malt's variety of base and high-kilned malt selections to form a diverse portfolio of 32 total malt products. 

“I could not be happier with the partnership we were able to architect with the superb team at Carolina Malt House,” says Jeff Bloem, Founder and Head Maltster of Murphy & Rude Malting Co. While our brand quality, industry reputation, and tailored customer experience has always been a strong point for us; our ability to scale, expand our customer reach, and offer more competitive pricing has proven difficult over the last two years in the face of continuous economic and business headwinds. Given the correction market currently facing craft beer and spirits, we believe we are in a much better position working collaboratively than continuing to go-it-alone. My hope is that the efficiencies gained from a dually beneficial partnership like this will lift all boats and prove to be the innovative business structure that lights the path forward.” 

“We're excited about adding Jeff's valuable knowledge to our combined organization and offering an even wider selection of malt products to create local, world-class flavor and freshness,” adds Aaron Goss, Carolina Malt Co-Founder.

Moving forward, customers will see continued quality and value improvements as these two teams combine their knowledge to produce the best malt possible.

To place an order of Murphy & Rude malt, contact Jeff Bloem at jeff@murphyrudemalting.com. 

Contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com with media inquiries about Murphy & Rude Malting Co. 

ABOUT MURPHY & RUDE MALTING CO.

Murphy & Rude Malting is Virginia’s first and only maltster creating radical malts for differentiating products, leveraging processes rooted in traditional methods (their ol' dog Murphy) and then combined with innovation and adventurous creativity (Rudy, or Rude...the puppy). Opening as a specialty-focused malthouse in 2018, Murphy & Rude is committed to providing a diversity of character malts to craft breweries and distilleries as traceably and thoughtfully as possible. Find them online at murphyrudemalting.com.

ABOUT CAROLINA MALT HOUSE

Carolina Malt House also hit the market in 2018. Co-Founded by Aaron Goss and built DIY by local millwrights and smiths, this world-class malting facility makes it possible for craft breweries and distilleries to claim that their beverages are truly local. The capacity of this state-of-the-art malthouse supplies malt with the consistency of macro-producers, with the creativity, attention to detail, and personalization of a small, local supplier working with family farmers. Learn more at carolinamalt.com. 

Summer Hop Zombie Is Back For Solstice At Lone Tree Brewing Parker

PARKER, CO– Lone Tree Brewing Summer Zombie, a twist on a cult classic, returns June 20th— just in time for Solstice, and for one day only. 

Bigger hops, killer flavor, and enough attitude to fuel an endless summer, the Summer Solstice Imperial Juicy IPA lures you in with hypnotic waves of tropical fruit and a potent 10% ABV bite. It will be available on tap and in 6-packs to-go, but not for long. 

Lone Tree Brewing Parker is releasing a limited run of collectible Hop Zombie glassware, designed with this year’s Point Break theme. As is tradition for Zombie Days at the brewery, the first ten people in line score a free Hop Zombie glass. 

Surf’s up. Cans down. This one’s for the legends.

Media interested in learning more about the 14-year Hop Zombie legacy and the Summer Zombie making its return for the second year can contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com. Zombie Day at Lone Tree Brewing’s original location will take place later this fall. 

ABOUT LONE TREE BREWING COMPANY

Lone Tree Brewing Company was the first brewery to open in Lone Tree, Colorado in Denver’s South Metro area in 2011, and has remained a local staple for more than a decade. Now deeply rooted in this community, the brewing company is growing friends at its two tasting rooms– the original location near Park Meadows Mall in Lone Tree, and Lone Tree Brewing Parker in the heart of Parker, Colorado. Visit the brewery online at lonetreebrewingco.com.

Lone Tree Brewing Selects Elite Brands As Colorado Distribution Partner

LONE TREE, COLORADO— Lone Tree Brewing and Elite Brands announced today a new distribution partnership to supply Lone Tree beer across Colorado. 

The same Lone Tree brands previously distributed by Western Distributing are now available across Elite’s distribution footprint in the Centennial State, including the flagship Mexican Lager that recently brought home a World Beer Cup® and the newly released Peach Wheat Ale. Lone Tree’s other year round beers— IPA, Blueberry Blonde Ale, Red Ale, and Double IPA— as well as their seasonal and specialty releases will join Elite’s storied portfolio. The Lone Tree spring seasonal Czech Lager is available now while supplies last. 

“We’re excited to welcome Lone Tree Brewing into the Elite Brands portfolio,” said Terry Cekola, Founder and President of Elite Brands. “Lone Tree has a long history of making consistent and true to style beers. As a fellow independently owned company, their values align with Elite Brands. It makes sense to partner and help them grow.”

With the reach of the Elite’s network, Lone Tree products will now be offered statewide for the first time. “We are so excited to expand our footprint with the experienced team at Elite Brands,” says John Winter, Lone Tree Brewing Founder. “As we near our fifteenth anniversary, distribution to the entire state is a huge milestone.” 

Contact Josh Troutman at jtroutman@elite-brands.com or call 303-394-7535 to place a wholesale order of Lone Tree beers.

Contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com with media inquiries about Lone Tree Brewing. 

ABOUT LONE TREE BREWING CO. 

Lone Tree Brewing Company was the first brewery to open in Lone Tree, Colorado in Denver’s South Metro area in 2011, and has remained a local staple for more than a decade. Now deeply rooted in this community, the brewing company is growing friends at its two tasting rooms– the original location near Park Meadows Mall in Lone Tree, and Lone Tree Brewing Parker in the heart of Parker, Colorado. Visit the brewery online at lonetreebrewingco.com. 

ABOUT ELITE BRANDS 

Elite Brands of Colorado is an independent beverage distributor dedicated to bringing a best-in-class beverage experience to retail and hospitality partners across Colorado. Founded in 2003, Elite has built a carefully curated portfolio that spans craft beer, wine, spirits, non-alcoholic, and other emerging beverage categories. Each brand is thoughtfully evaluated by Elite’s experienced team for quality, fit, and growth potential before earning a place in the portfolio. The Elite team canvasses the state daily, proudly bringing premium beverages from neighborhood bottle shops and restaurants to stadiums, music venues, and retailers at the peaks of Colorado’s mountain resorts. For more information, visit elite-brands.com.

Beer Is Now Cheaper Than Gas. Finally, Some Good News.

DURANGO, CO— Gas prices are once again giving America something to talk about, complain about, and stare at in disbelief from behind the wheel. Ska Brewing can’t fix the price at the pump, but starting June 1, the brewery is offering one small bit of relief: a new light beer that costs one cent less than the price of a gallon of unleaded gas.

Introducing West’s Easy Light Lager, because everything else is so hard.

Clean, crisp, and effortless, Easy Light is Ska’s new low-alcohol, low-calorie, low-carb lager brewed for everyday drinking, easy sharing, and easier mornings. At just 3.8% ABV, it delivers the kind of light, refreshing beer people want right now: flavorful, uncomplicated, and affordable.

To launch the beer, Ska Brewing is introducing the Gas vs. Beer Index, a highly scientific economic measurement based on one question: Is a pint of Easy Light still cheaper than a gallon of gas?

The answer, at least at Ska Brewing’s World Headquarters in Durango, will always be yes. Beginning June 1, a pint of Easy Light will be priced at one cent less than the average national price of unleaded gas. If unleaded is $4.59, Easy Light is $4.58. If gas goes up, Easy Light stays one cent below. If gas goes down, well, for once people can celebrate two prices falling at the same time.

“We’re always listening to what beer drinkers are asking for,” says Ska Co-Founder Dave Thibodeau. “People want something lighter, lower in alcohol, and easier to drink— but they don’t want it to feel cheap or watered down. Easy Light is a beer we’re proud to pour, made with good ingredients, full of flavor, and priced in a way that actually feels good in 2026.”

The brewing team at Ska built Easy Light with premium ingredients and a simple philosophy: less is more. Less alcohol. Fewer calories. Lower carbs. No fuss. Just a clean, refreshing lager made for the cooler, the fridge, the river, the backyard, and the friend who says they’re “only having one” but brought a 12-pack just in case.

“Easy Light is also a little nod to the way beer used to feel— approachable, affordable, and not something you had to overthink,” adds Thibodeau. “Gas prices might suck, but this beer sure doesn’t.”

Easy Light will make its first appearance on draft at Ska Brewing’s Durango tasting room on June 1, where the Gas vs. Beer Index will officially begin. Budget-friendly 12-packs of 12 oz cans will follow later in June across Southwestern Colorado. Follow along @drinkingeasy.

Contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com with media inquiries about Easy Light. 

ABOUT SKA BREWING

Founded in the spirit of punk rock and a little bit of ska, Ska Brewing has been challenging the status quo and brewing beers that refuse to conform since 1995. From the iconic Mexican Logger to the rebellious Modus Hoperandi IPA, Ska Brewing is dedicated to crafting unforgettable beers and beverages that are as unique as the people who drink them. For more information, samples, or just to chat about how great peaches are, contact Ska Brewing at info@skabrewing.com or visit skabrewing.com.​​

Lone Tree Brewing To Operate Beer Garden at High Note Park

High Note Park groundbreaking, photo courtesy Colorado Photography

LONE TREE, COLORADO— Lone Tree Brewing Company will operate the beer garden at The City of Lone Tree’s High Note Park, which just celebrated its groundbreaking at the end of April. 

High Note Park will be the largest park in Lone Tree, located near Interstate 25 and RidgeGate Parkway, with plans for an amphitheater and regional promenade, ballfields, a dog park, and the Lone Tree Brewing beer garden. 

This new beer garden bar will be built from a shipping container, with long communal benches— all of which will be open air but covered for weather protection. Patrons can expect a lineup of Lone Tree beers on draft, a light menu, and a smattering of other beverage options. The beer garden will be family and dog friendly. 

“Our partnership with the City of Lone Tree dates back to before our opening and has included special beer releases and a multitude of events,” says Lone Tree Brewing Co-Founder and Director of Brewhouse Operations Jerry Siote. “We’re thrilled about the evolution of this relationship that gives us the opportunity to create a new, unique gathering space for the community that makes our business possible.” 

Phase one of High Note Park is slated to open to the public in late summer 2027. Stay tuned for updates at cityoflonetree.com/highnotepark. 

Contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com with media inquiries about Lone Tree Brewing Co. 

ABOUT LONE TREE BREWING CO. 

Lone Tree Brewing Company was the first brewery to open in Lone Tree, Colorado in Denver’s South Metro area in 2011, and has remained a local staple for more than a decade. Now deeply rooted in this community, the brewing company is growing friends at its two tasting rooms– the original location near Park Meadows Mall in Lone Tree, and Lone Tree Brewing Parker in the heart of Parker, Colorado. Visit the brewery online at lonetreebrewingco.com.

Fresh From Goat Patch Brewing: Citrus Summer Drink Fruited Pale Ale

COLORADO— Goat Patch Brewing Company’s summer seasonal, Citrus Summer Drink Fruited Pale Ale, hits shelves this week.

The brewing team at Goat Patch loves to experiment with exotic fruits in their recipes, and this new Pale Ale is no exception. Brewed with Calamansi (a tangerine-kumquat hybrid) and lime, Citrus Summer Drink is uber refreshing and bursting with citrus flavor accentuated by citrusy aroma hops Glacier, Motueka, and Mandarina. Its lighter grain bill lets the fruit shine, and additions of wheat and flaked barley give the mouthfeel a pillowy boost. 

“Calamansi has become popular recently because the orange-lime flavor combination is more vibrant than just orange and softer than just lime,” says Darren Baze, Goat Patch Co-Owner and Director of Production Operations. He and his brewing team have used this fruit in a few recipes already, and they’re excited to see this latest creation in cans in the Colorado marketplace. 

Goat Patch Citrus Summer Drink will be available in six-packs and on tap through springtime at the three brewery locations, and across Southern Colorado— all while supplies last. 

Media inquiring about Goat Patch Brewing Company can contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com. 

ABOUT GOAT PATCH BREWING COMPANY

Goat Patch Brewing Company started like all great ideas - good friends with a common passion sitting around a kitchen table dreaming about the future. Even before their name (which eventually became a nod to the beard style of co-owner and head brewer Darren Baze), they all agreed on a shared set of values: balanced brews, community engagement and adventure. Now with 2018 and 2020 GABF medals, a World Beer Cup medal in 2022 and 2024, and numerous other recognitions, they are proud to play a part in bringing award-winning craft beer to their community. Find the brewery online at www.goatpatchbrewing.com. 

For all awards and accolades, please visit www.goatpatchbrewing.com/aboutus. 

Lone Tree Brewing Wins First World Beer Cup Award For Famed Mexican Lager

LONE TREE, CO— Lone Tree Brewing Company Mexican Lager was awarded a bronze medal in the Mexican-Style Pale Lager category at the 2026 World Beer Cup in Philadelphia last week. 

This is Lone Tree’s first award in the World Beer Cup, one of the most prestigious beer competitions with entrants from across the globe. 2026 marked the 30th year of the World Beer Cup, for which an international panel of 255 judges from 50 countries evaluated 8,166 entries using rigorous, blind-tasting protocols. The 2026 competition had entries from 1,644 breweries representing 50 nations, awarding the best in beer and cider across 118 categories. The Mexican-Style Pale Lager category had 114 entries. 

Lone Tree Mexican Lager is a three-time recipient of medals in the Great American Beer Festival® (GABF) American Light Lager category, as well as a gold medal in the Colorado Brewers Cup International Pale Lager category. Its easy drinkability and accolades have grown its fan fame over the years, and helped to popularize the Mexican Lager style in Colorado and beyond.

"We couldn't be happier to have received our first medal on the World Beer Cup stage,” says Jerry Siote, Lone Tree Brewing Director of Operations. “Our Mexican Lager proves we can consistently produce a quality pale lager that our community can always rely on. It's become our largest flagship, and we're proud to call it a "beer's beer". The brewhouse team works very hard every day and never settles for just good enough, and it shows. We let the results speak for themselves, and It's always our goal to implement proven processes along with quality ingredients in everything we brew. This may be our first World Beer Cup medal, and we’re motivated to say it won't be our last.”

For more information about Lone Tree Brewing’s award-winning Mexican Lager, contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com.

ABOUT LONE TREE BREWING CO. 

Lone Tree Brewing Company was the first brewery to open in Lone Tree, Colorado in Denver’s South Metro area in 2011, and has remained a local staple for more than a decade. Now deeply rooted in this community, the brewing company is growing friends at its two tasting rooms– the original location near Park Meadows Mall in Lone Tree, and Lone Tree Brewing Parker in the heart of Parker, Colorado. Visit the brewery online at lonetreebrewingco.com. 

Ska Brewing True Blonde Wins Gold at the 2026 World Beer Cup

Photo © Brewers Association

DURANGO, CO - April 23, 2026— Ska Brewing is raising a glass to its first-ever and most decorated beer for yet another distinguished award. Yesterday at the 2026 World Beer Cup awards ceremony, True Blonde won the gold medal in the English-Style Pale Ale category. 

The 2026 gold is True Blonde’s third win at the World Beer Cup, one of the most prestigious beer competitions on the globe and a place where brewers go to get judged in the most flattering possible way: blind. Organized by the Brewers Association, this year’s World Beer Cup marked the competition’s 30th year. It recognized the best in beer and cider across 118 categories with 8,166 entries from 1,644 breweries representing 50 nations. Those entries were evaluated by an international panel of 255 judges using blind-tasting protocols designed to uphold the competition’s global standard for technical excellence, innovation, and creativity. The English-Style Pale Ale category included 77 entries this year. 

For Ska, this win is especially meaningful. True Blonde has been one of the brewery’s flagship beers since day one, with the first two kegs ever brewed poured at the second annual Telluride Brewer’s Festival in September 1995. Thirty-one years later, the beer continues to earn recognition on the world stage— and, make people look smart for ordering it.

“This one means a lot,” says Dave Thibodeau, Co-Founder of Ska Brewing. “True Blonde was where it all started for us. It was the first beer we ever brewed, and to see it win World Beer Cup gold 31 years later is incredibly rewarding. It says something about the quality of the beer, the consistency of our brewing team, and the staying power of a beer that has been part of Ska since the very beginning.”

True Blonde’s latest honor joins five Great American Beer Festival medals, three L.A. International Beer Competition awards, a European Beer Star, an Australian International Beer Awards medal, multiple recognitions from the Good Food Awards, and more in the trophy case.  

“Thirty years in, the World Beer Cup remains a powerful reflection of how far global brewing has come— and where it’s headed,” says Chris Williams, World Beer Cup Competition Director. “Even in a year that challenged beverage alcohol producers to evolve, this year’s winners demonstrated that innovation, precision, and passion for craft are stronger than ever.” 

Ska Brewing has built its reputation on bold flavor, independence, and a healthy disregard for taking itself too seriously. But behind the irreverence has always been a deep commitment to brewing quality beer. With this latest gold medal, True Blonde continues to prove that a classic never goes out of style.

For more information about Ska Brewing True Blonde’s remarkable 31-year-run, and counting, contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com.

ABOUT SKA BREWING

Founded in the spirit of punk rock and a little bit of ska, Ska Brewing has been challenging the status quo and brewing beers that refuse to conform since 1995. From the iconic Mexican Logger to the rebellious Modus Hoperandi IPA, Ska Brewing is dedicated to crafting unforgettable beers and beverages that are as unique as the people who drink them. For more information, samples, or just to chat about how great peaches are, contact Ska Brewing at info@skabrewing.com or visit skabrewing.com.

Riverbend Malt House Crystal 80 Malt Is Now Available

ASHEVILLE, NC— Riverbend Malt House is adding its darkest malt offering yet to its Crystal malt family. Crystal 80 is now available for purchase. 

After years of research and development to inform the move from caramelization to crystallization, the Riverbend team is pleased to add Crystal 80 to its portfolio. This new malt is produced using a proprietary kilning technique that mimics the stages of a standard roasting profile without the intense heat. The result is a truly crystalized malt that delivers syrupy smooth dark cherry, baker’s chocolate, finishing with a touch of coffee cake and oak. This malt will add deep color and complexity to the flavors in styles like English Mild or Barleywine.

Like all the products in Riverbend’s Crystal family, if the kernels were to be cut open one could see their crystallized cores. The malt house team is proud to have achieved this effect, especially in this darkest product that comes in at an SRM range of 70 to 90. Crystal 50 delivers syrupy smooth toffee notes supported by hints of coffee and dark chocolate, with an SRM range of 45 to 55; and Crystal 20 yields loads of light caramel and toffee flavors followed by hints of pumpernickel and black tea, with 15 to 25 SRM. 

Contact your sales representative or email orders@riverbendmalt.com to place an order of Crystal 80.

Contact hutto@radcraftbeer.com with media inquires about Riverbend Malt House. 

ABOUT RIVERBEND MALT HOUSE

Riverbend Malt House is on a quest to connect Southeastern family owned farms and fermenters. Co-Founders Brent Manning and Brian Simpson launched Riverbend, the first craft malt house east of the Mississippi River, in Asheville, North Carolina in 2010. Buoyed by a 70,000 square foot production facility and state of the art equipment, Riverbend Malt House helps breweries and distilleries large, small, and in-between stand out with flavor, locality, and community in an increasingly competitive landscape— all the while challenging the status quo of corporate, big-agriculture malt. Learn more at riverbendmalt.com.

New Lone Tree Brewing Czech Lager Showcases Traditional Czech Malt and Lagering Techniques

COLORADO— Lone Tree Brewing Company Czech Lager is now available in cans and on draft for the spring season. This classic Czech-Style Golden Pilsner, a popular tasting room beer turned production batch, was brewed with traditional Czech malt from Tchecomalt. Find it at both Lone Tree Brewing tasting rooms, and across Colorado, while supplies last. 

Lone Tree Brewing works closely with Country Malt Group, so it seemed fitting to build this simple yet complex Pilsner recipe with quality malt from one of the oldest Czech malting companies in their portfolio, Tchecomalt circa 1869. Tchecomalt's floor-malted Pilsen, Vienna, and Munich malts created the base for this full-bodied, hop-forward, and clean finishing lager with a traditional Czech lager yeast profile. Lone Tree Czech Lager is only 4.5% ABV for supreme drinkability. 

"Since our inception almost 15 years ago, we’ve understood the importance of showcasing classic lager styles from all beer cultures," says Jerry Siote, Lone Tree Brewing Director of Operations. “Our German-Style Helles Lager showed our early patrons that simple recipes with proven methods and ingredients could result in a complex and drinkable beer. Moving into our intermediate brewing years, our Mexican Lager has become a staple beer that people can rely on over and over. Given the current trends for quality, straightforward lagers, we felt that highlighting the rich heritage of Czech culture could illustrate our depth and variation within the light lager category."

This Pilsner was aggressively hopped with a new hop for Lone Tree, Zuper Saazer that was grown at Hop Head Farms in Southwest Michigan. This variety imparted aromas of spice, and a noble hop finish with higher alpha-acids. "We like a little fight in our Pilsners, IPAs, and other hop-forward beers from an IBU standpoint. There's been an alarming trend in the industry where bitterness began to carry a negative connotation, which we hope to dispel with this lager."  

Lone Tree Czech Pilsner is now available in 12oz cans and kegs in  the Colorado market, and is currently on draft at both brewery locations for a limited time. 

Contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com with media inquiries about Lone Tree Brewing Co. 

ABOUT LONE TREE BREWING CO. 

Lone Tree Brewing Company was the first brewery to open in Lone Tree, Colorado in Denver’s South Metro area in 2011, and has remained a local staple for more than a decade. Now deeply rooted in this community, the brewing company is growing friends at its two tasting rooms– the original location near Park Meadows Mall in Lone Tree, and Lone Tree Brewing Parker in the heart of Parker, Colorado. Visit the brewery online at lonetreebrewingco.com. 

Goat Patch Brewing Announces 2026 Summer Music Series

Goat Patch Brewing - Monument

COLORADO— Goat Patch Brewing Company will offer a diverse lineup of live musical talent at the Summer Music Series at Goat Patch - Lincoln Center and the newly rebranded Goat Patch - Monument locations this spring, summer, and fall. 

Beginning on May 3, the Summer Music Series will take place every Sunday at Goat Patch - Monument and Goat Patch - Lincoln Center. The lineup is just like the Goat Patch tap list, with something for everyone— from acoustic sets to multi-piece bands that range in genre from rock to punk to funk, mixed with jazz, country, and dance throwbacks that span the eras, plus more. 

Bands on the Summer Music Series roster include local celebrities like Soapdish, SofaKillers, and Tiny Pockets, as well as groups from all over Colorado and beyond. Goat Patch visitors should mark their calendars for the brewery’s ninth anniversary weekend from July 24 to 26, with live music planned at all locations— including the first-ever live tunes at Goat Patch - Northgate. 

Find details about each week’s Summer Music Series on the Goat Patch website events page for each location: Goat Patch - Lincoln Center, Goat Patch - Monument, and Goat Patch - Northgate. 

Media inquiring about Goat Patch Brewing Company can contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com. 

ABOUT GOAT PATCH BREWING COMPANY

Goat Patch Brewing Company started like all great ideas - good friends with a common passion sitting around a kitchen table dreaming about the future. Even before their name (which eventually became a nod to the beard style of co-owner and head brewer Darren Baze), they all agreed on a shared set of values: balanced brews, community engagement and adventure. Now with 2018 and 2020 GABF medals, a World Beer Cup medal in 2022 and 2024, and numerous other recognitions, they are proud to play a part in bringing award-winning craft beer to their community. 

Find the brewery online at www.goatpatchbrewing.com. 

For all awards and accolades, please visit www.goatpatchbrewing.com/aboutus 

Lone Tree Brewing Debuts Peach Wheat Ale

COLORADO–  Lone Tree Brewing Peach Wheat Ale is now available in cans and on draft across Colorado. This refreshing fruit beer is replacing Lone Tree’s flagship Peach Pale Ale in their year-round portfolio.

In a continued effort to provide a well-rounded lineup of beer styles, the brewing team at Lone Tree has always loved to experiment with fruit— and demonstrated their prowess on fruit additions with multiple awards for the beloved Peach Pale Ale. As the market craves more and more fruit, they are excited to debut a fresh recipe that still pays homage to one of their first-ever recipes. 

The new Peach Wheat is a fresh take on a classic American Wheat Ale with generous additions of real peaches. Bold hop flavors of tropical fruit, candied peaches, and apricot complement the finest pale malts and soft wheat backdrop to craft this hand-picked ale. It pours with a soft orange haze and a medium body, approachable bitterness, and a stone fruit finish.

“The end of Peach Pale is truly the end of an era, but we welcome the fresh, fruit-forward flavors of this new wheat ale,” says Lone Tree Director of Brewhouse Operations Jerry Siote. “We feel the most successful breweries balance the importance of tradition with willingness to experiment and adapt to customer preference. The Peach Pale was an important part of our growth over the years that taught us how to balance real fruit flavor with the goal of creating a “beer-first” brand. Working closely with Hopsteiner showed us we can highlight Alora™ hops in the new Peach Wheat for their flavor notes of peach, yuzu fruit, sweet melon, and apricot.” 

Peach Wheat is now available on draft and in 6-packs to to-go at both Lone Tree locations. Find it on draft and in cans at retailers and venues across the Centennial State. 

Contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com with media inquiries about Lone Tree Brewing.

ABOUT LONE TREE BREWING CO. 

Lone Tree Brewing Company was the first brewery to open in Lone Tree, Colorado in Denver’s South Metro area in 2011, and has remained a local staple for more than a decade. Now deeply rooted in this community, the brewing company is growing friends at its two tasting rooms– the original location near Park Meadows Mall in Lone Tree, and the recently opened Lone Tree Brewing Parker in the heart of Parker, Colorado. Find Lone Tree’s stylistically diverse lineup of canned beers in cans and on draft in Colorado to enjoy with your buds. Visit the brewery online at lonetreebrewingco.com.

Living The Dream Brewing Refreshes Canned Portfolio

COLORADO— Now in its twelfth year in business and eighth year packaging cans, Living The Dream Brewing is excited to present a branding refresh of its canned beer portfolio. 

The same great recipes now have a cleaner, bolder look that combines matte and metallic finishes with complementary color combinations. All of the cans, including seasonal offerings, are more readable with succinct flavor descriptions so beer lovers know exactly what to expect.

“The new can design concept is more cohesive, which we know will result in instant brand recognition of Living The Dream Beers and more flexibility to bring beers to the market more quickly, creating a wider selection for the consumer,” says Founder Jason Bell. 

Living The Dream cans previously featured outdoor photography captured across Colorado. “Instead of each label telling its own story,” Bell adds, “the new designs allow each beer to tell the story of our brewery.” 

Look for refreshed cans of Powder Run and its seasonal variants, Trailhead Fog Hazy IPA, 7 Speed IPA, Fly Reel Amber, and Coconut Stout across Colorado. Living The Dream beer is distributed across the Centennial State by Colorado Craft Distributors, available at more than 500 retailers and establishments. Find the closest Living The Dream beer via the brewery’s online beer finder. 

Contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com for sample requests and with media inquiries about Living The Dream Brewing. 

ABOUT LIVING THE DREAM BREWING

Living the Dream Brewing is a craft brewery established in 2014 in Littleton, our home base for adventure in Colorado. Built on a foundation of brewing beer using only the finest ingredients, Living the Dream celebrates the people, places, and activities of the Centennial State. Live the life you've imagined, and join us at livingthedreambrewing.com. 

Goat Patch Brewing Releases First Canned West Coast IPA

COLORADO— Goat Patch Brewing Company is excited to add breadth to its IPA portfolio with its first-ever West Coast IPA in a can. Goat Patch West Coast IPA is now available across Colorado. 

Long known for their popular Hazy IPA, Goat Patch Brewing is proud to present this new IPA on tap and in canned 6-packs at all three brewery locations, and in kegs and cans at bars, restaurants, and retailers in Colorado Springs, Monument, and the surrounding area. 

This foray into clear, canned IPA is a refreshingly dry and intensely hoppy IPA brewed with a trifecta of classic Pacific Northwest hops: Mosaic, Citra, and Simcoe. It weighs in at 6.7% ABV with 58 IBUs. This West Coast IPA was popular on tap before the Goat Patch brewing team decided to package it. 

“We brewed this with a super dry grain bill, a Pilsner base to really showcase the hops,” says Co-Owner and Director of Production Operations Darren Baze. “It tasted great brewed on our pilot system, and we’re excited to release this beer on a larger scale.” 

Goat Patch West Coast IPA will be available in six-packs and on tap through springtime, all while supplies last. 

Media inquiring about Goat Patch Brewing Company can contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com. 

ABOUT GOAT PATCH BREWING COMPANY

Goat Patch Brewing Company started like all great ideas - good friends with a common passion sitting around a kitchen table dreaming about the future. Even before their name (which eventually became a nod to the beard style of co-owner and head brewer Darren Baze), they all agreed on a shared set of values: balanced brews, community engagement and adventure. Now with 2018 and 2020 GABF medals, a World Beer Cup medal in 2022 and 2024, and numerous other recognitions, they are proud to play a part in bringing award-winning craft beer to their community. Find the brewery online at www.goatpatchbrewing.com. 

For all awards and accolades, please visit www.goatpatchbrewing.com/story. 

Craft Maltsters Guild Names 2026 Malt Cup Winners

NATIONAL— The Craft Maltsters Guild announced the 2026 Malt Cup award recipients at a virtual ceremony this evening, with winners from across the globe. 

Hannah Uhlmann, Director of the Barley, Malt & Brewing Lab at Montana State University and manager of the Malt Cup awards for eight years now, presented the awards alongside Aline Brito, Sensory & Food Scientist at Food Montana State University. They reported 117 total entries from 29 malthouses in five countries. These entries included seven grain types and 48 varieties. 

Here are the 2026 Malt Cup winners: 

Distillers Malt

Gold: Maltese, Two Track Malting in Menoken, North Dakota

Silver: Distillers – High Enzyme, Root Shoot Malting in Loveland, Colorado

Bronze: Whiskey Jack, Red Shed Malting in Red Deer County, Alberta 

Light Munich

Gold: RS M-10, Root Shoot Malting in Loveland, Colorado

Silver: Light Munich, Blue Ox Malthouse in Lisbon Falls, Maine 

Bronze: Mjolnir Light Munich, ND Malting & Hops in Williston, North Dakota 

Caramel 

Gold: Cara Rubie – C20, Root Shoot Malting in Loveland, Colorado

Silver: Caribou Malt – C40, Red Shed Malting in Red Deer County, Alberta

Bronze: MOD AFTDRK – C120, Troubadour Maltings in Fort Collins, Colorado 

Vienna

Gold: Super Pevec, Troubadour Maltings in Fort Collins, Colorado

Silver: Vienna, Voyager Craft Malt in Whitton, NSW Australia

Bronze: Keughen Vienna, Gallatin Valley Malt in Manhattan, Montana

Wheat

Gold: Wheat Pale, 3D Malt in Camrose, Alberta Canada

Silver: Wheat Malt, Rabbit Hill Malt in Shiloh, New Jersey

Bronze: Wheat Malt, South Fork Malthouse in Cynthiana, Kentucky 

Pale Malt

Gold: Parkland Pale, Red Shed Malting in Red Deer County, Alberta

Silver: Okefenokee, Two Track Malting in Menoken, North Dakota

Bronze: Baronesse Pale, LINC Malt in Spokane Valley, Washington

Pilsen

Gold: Pilsner Lake, Loam Malt Studio in Nomans Lake, WA Australia 

Silver: ’23 Violetta Pils, Mitten State Malt in Okemos, Michigan 

Bronze: Yankee Pils, Blue Ox Malthouse in Lisbon Falls, Maine

Unique Malt

Gold: Finger Lakes Flaked Corn, New York Craft in Malt Batavia, New York

Silver: Golden Triticale, Blue Ox Malthouse in Lisbon Falls, Maine

Bronze: Frontier Malt, Gallatin Valley Malt in Manhattan, Montana

Each year, the Best In Show designation goes to the Gold Medal malt that had the highest performance through all three rounds of evaluation: Analytical Quality, Sensory Evaluation, and Best Of Show Judging. The 2026 Best In Show malt was Parkland Pale by Red Shed Malting, crafted from the CDC Churchill barley variety. 

“Winning the Malt Cup means the world to us— we pour our heart and soul into this business and our products,” says Matt Hamill, Maltster at Red Shed Malting. “I’m constantly touting ‘premium’ products in the market, so this recognition helps us as a sales tool and an icebreaker to get us in the door.” 

Red Shed Malting will receive the traveling Malt Cup trophy, shipped to them from last year’s winners Blue Ox Malthouse. 

The 2026 Malt Cup was made possible by generous sponsors Ackermann, Bratney, the Canadian Malting Barley Technical Centre, the Montana Wheat and Barley Committee, the National Barley Growers Association, New Glarus Brewing Co., Promalting, RadCraft, and Yingtai Machinery; as well as AV partner Empowered Streaming. 

The Craft Maltsters Guild extends gratitude to all of the Malt Cup entrants who will soon receive judging notes for their entries. This program intends to provide feedback that improves malt quality, ultimately elevating the credibility of the small grains community at large. Registration for the 2027 Malt Cup will begin in October.

Media inquiring about the Craft Maltsters Guild and the Malt Cup can contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com. 

ABOUT THE CRAFT MALTSTERS GUILD 

Formed in 2013, the Craft Maltsters Guild’s mission is to promote and sustain the tradition of craft malting in North America, provide services and resources to the Association’s members, and uphold the highest quality and safety standards for Craft Maltsters. Learn more about the Craft Maltsters Guild at www.craftmalting.com.