In this episode, we're joined by Jackie Zykan, Master Blender and co-owner of Hidden Barn Whiskey. Our conversation explores craft distilling, the techniques of barrel blending, and Jackie's unique ODUOAK perfume line. All of us also put our senses to the test in a sensory evaluation game. PS: hope you like Cold IPAs!
Featured Beverages
Support the podcast by giving us a rating and a review. Prefer YouTube? Subscribe to our channel: www.youtube.com/@louisvillealetrail. If you like what you hear, you can tip us a few bucks over on our Patreon: www.patreon.com/kycommons.
0 Comments
 There’s a new brewery opening in Louisville soon. We sat down with Awry Brewing co-founders Tyler Martin, Alex Vogt, and Tom Bartle to learn more about their inspirations, what sets their brewery apart, and what customers can expect when they visit their taproom. Read on to discover the passion and vision behind this up-and-coming Highlands neighborhood brewery. Q: What inspired you to open Awry Brewing, and how did the three of you come together to make this dream a reality?
Tom Bartle: I've always wanted to open a business and I've always had a passion for good beers. Then I got involved with the Kentucky Guild of Brewers and met Alex and Tyler. We all started hanging out, and things began to come together as a team. From there, we pursued our shared dream of opening a brewery. Q: Why “Awry?” Alex Vogt: We chose "Awry" because it seemed like every time we took one step forward, it was two steps back. Something always seemed to go awry. Awry is a testament to us embracing every curveball and misstep we take, and taking it in stride, always remembering that something is bound to go awry. Q: What will set Awry Brewing apart from other breweries in the Louisville area, and what can customers expect from your beers in terms of styles? Tyler Martin: We love telling stories, and we want to tell those stories through our space and our beer. Style-wise, I don’t think anything is off the table. We have all traveled a bit, and all get excited about different beers. Customers can expect a diverse beer menu featuring various styles. Q: Which of your beer styles are you most excited about featuring? Alex: I have always loved the idea of “Brewer’s Beer”. The beer that the brewery workers drink at the end of a shift. I’m excited to see what that beer is going to be for us, and how it's going to change. Q: Are there any seasonal or limited-release beers that customers should keep an eye out for throughout the year? Tom: I'm sure we will have some things up our sleeves for the public to get excited about. Collaborations should be highlights of some of our taps. Q: You’re keeping the old Chimera brewing system. What size system is that? What are your thoughts on brewing on that system versus the large systems you have used in production brewing? TMart: It's a 5bbl system. We are excited about the size because smaller systems allow us to be more nimble and can source hyper-local and/or unique ingredients and practices. Q: Can you give us a sense of the atmosphere and overall experience we can expect when visiting Awry Brewing? Alex: We want an eclectic atmosphere. We plan to lean hard into art in all forms, creating a relaxed and fun vibe that encourages people to be who they are. We like telling stories, but we also really like hearing stories too. Q: You have a functioning kitchen! What does that culinary experience look like? Tom: We plan to keep it as simple as we can. Chicken fingers, fries, and a few sides. The focus is on the beers. Q: Are there any plans for hosting events, live music, or community gatherings at Awry Brewing? If so, what types of events can patrons expect? TMart: For sure! We definitely have some stuff planned, like trivia nights and beer/brewers Olympics. Live music is a possibility on occasion, but we don't plan for that on the regular. Q: What are your long-term goals for Awry Brewing, and how do you hope to contribute to the growing craft beer scene in Louisville and beyond? Alex: Long-term, we would love to open an additional space in Southern Indiana, where we're all from. My passion project is to retire to my in-laws' farm and make Kentuckiana farmhouse ales. We want to contribute to the growing craft beer scene in Louisville by offering unique, high-quality beers and fostering an atmosphere that encourages community and creativity. Q: Which non-Kentucky breweries inspire you in terms of both beer and business? Tom: My first introduction to "craft beers" was in the early '90s with Sierra Nevada and Anchor Steam. We could get those on the East Coast, and I loved them, so both of those inspired me to learn more about beers from around the world. Q: When can we expect to see Awry open? TMart: We're working hard to get everything in order, and we would like to get open in June. Keep an eye on our social media for updates on our progress and official opening date.  Louisville, KY: A Rising Star Among America's Best Beer Cities As a vibrant and bustling city, Louisville has long been famous for its bourbon and horse racing. But in recent years, the city has been making a name for itself in the craft beer scene, joining the ranks of America's best beer cities. In this blog post, we'll explore the factors contributing to Louisville's rise as a top beer destination, including its unique contribution to American brewing history with the Kentucky Common beer style, and how the Louisville Ale Trail can help you uncover the city's thriving craft beer community. A Diverse and Growing Craft Beer SceneOne of the key factors behind Louisville's ascent as a premier beer city is the sheer diversity and growth of its craft breweries. With nearly thirty local brewery taprooms and counting, there's something for every beer lover's taste. From traditional ales to experimental brews, the city's breweries are constantly pushing the boundaries of craft beer, making Louisville a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts. Home of the Kentucky Common Beer StyleLouisville holds a special place in American brewing history as the birthplace of the Kentucky Common, a distinctive beer style with origins dating back to the late 19th century. This regional specialty, known for its dark color, malt-forward flavor, and slight tartness, was once a popular choice among beer drinkers in the area. Today, many Louisville breweries are reviving this historic style, showcasing the city's rich brewing heritage and adding to the diversity of its craft beer scene. Strong Community Support The success of Louisville's craft beer scene can also be attributed to strong community support. Locals and visitors alike are passionate about supporting their local breweries, which in turn fuels innovation and growth. Events like Louisville Beer Week, Tailspin Ale Fest, and the Kentucky Craft Bash and a world-class beer bars such as Holy Grale and Sergio's further demonstrate the city's commitment to promoting and celebrating its thriving beer culture. The Louisville Ale Trail: Your Passport to the Best OF LOUISVILLE BEERIf you're eager to experience Louisville's incredible craft beer scene, look no further than the Louisville Ale Trail. Our brewery passport program not only connects you with the city's top breweries but also supports local businesses and communities. As you collect stamps from participating brewery taprooms, you'll uncover valuable insights about each taproom's history and recommended beer styles. Experience Louisville's Craft Beer RenaissanceWith its diverse and growing craft beer scene, strong community support, and the immersive Louisville Ale Trail passport program, it's no wonder that Louisville, home of the Kentucky Common, is quickly becoming one of America's best beer cities. So, whether you're a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, grab your brewery passport and embark on a memorable journey through Louisville's thriving craft beer landscape. Cheers!
The guys return to cheese - but this time with a guide. Louisville's own cheesemonger, Adam Steckler, joins the show to teach Michael, John, and David the ins and outs of the cheese biz, beer and cheese pairings, and da cheez tax.
Live in or close to Kentucky? Mark your calendars for these two Kentucky festivals:
Featured Beverages
Support the podcast by giving us a rating and a review. Prefer YouTube? Subscribe to our channel: www.youtube.com/@louisvillealetrail. If you like what you hear, you can tip us a few bucks over on our Patreon: www.patreon.com/kycommons.  502 Beer Appreciation Day Returns A Celebration of Louisville Beer Culture Amidst the Excitement of the Kentucky Derby April 13, 2023 (Louisville, KY) – Louisville Ale Trail, in partnership with local brewery taprooms, is thrilled to announce the return of the annual 502 Beer Appreciation Day on Tuesday, May 2nd. This event, which celebrates the rich beer culture of Louisville, serves as the halfway mark to the highly anticipated Louisville Beer Week held every October. The festivities will coincide with the excitement surrounding the iconic Kentucky Derby, adding to the spirited atmosphere of this time-honored tradition.
For the third consecutive year, participating breweries throughout Louisville will showcase the best of their craft, offering a selection of special releases and pint specials priced at just $5.02. This daylong event promises a celebration of the city's thriving beer community, with something for every beer lover to enjoy. "Before the mint julep became the popular choice at the Kentucky Derby, locally-made Kentucky Common beer held that honor," said John Ronayne, Louisville Ale Trail co-founder. "502 Beer Appreciation Day is a celebration of 502’s thriving beer community and serves as a reminder that local beer has always been part of Kentucky Derby celebrations." Roger Huff, Gallant Fox Brewery co-founder, added, "502 Beer Appreciation Day not only celebrates Louisville’s current beer scene but also highlights the connection between our city's beer culture and the iconic Kentucky Derby. Our brewery was named after a legendary Triple Crown-winning horse, and we're proud to be part of this celebration that unites the passion for local beer and the excitement of horse racing.” The synergy between the Kentucky Derby and 502 Beer Appreciation Day perfectly encapsulates the essence of Louisville - a city that cherishes tradition while embracing innovation. As Derby City celebrates the horse races, raise a glass to Louisville as a growing hub for beer enthusiasts. The celebration also marks a significant milestone, serving as the halfway point to the eagerly awaited Louisville Beer Week in October. Organizers will gather at Shippingport Brewing on May 2nd, between 6-8 PM, to unveil this year's Louisville Beer Week theme. This announcement will set the stage, igniting excitement and anticipation among beer enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. For more information, follow Louisville Ale Trail on social media and visit their events calendar at www.louisvillealetrail.com. About Louisville Ale Trail Louisville Ale Trail serves to engage with Louisville tourists and residents about our local beer scene by encouraging city-wide tourism through the promotion of participating member brewery taprooms. To learn more, visit www.louisvillealetrail.com About Louisville Beer Week Louisville Beer Week, presented by Louisville Ale Trail, is a grassroots collaboration by Louisville beer nerds for Louisville beer nerds and is an annual seven-day celebration of Louisville’s historic and growing beer community. 
Martin Svab, Jack-Of-All-Trades at Pivot Brewing, joins David and John to chat all things cider, beer, and whiskey. We chat about his beginnings in Czechoslovakia and the California Bay Area, and we delve into the world of Pivot Brewing and the craft of cider making.
Live in or close to Kentucky? Mark your calendars for these two Kentucky festivals:
Featured Beverages
Martin Svab has been incorporated in the beer industry since the early 2000s. He comes to Pivot Brewing by way of the California Bay Area and even before from the former Czechoslovakia, where his family shares rich Publican History. With nearly 20 years of experience in beer production, sales, marketing, and intergalactic command, Martin still finds passion in new and creative styles of beer. His role at Pivot allows him to flex his jack-of-all-trades nature. When he isn’t out enjoying a Pivot brew, he enjoys visiting other local breweries, hanging out by the fire with his wife, and of course, his beloved pup. Support the podcast by giving us a rating and a review. Prefer YouTube? Subscribe to our channel: www.youtube.com/@louisvillealetrail. If you like what you hear, you can tip us a few bucks over on our Patreon: www.patreon.com/kycommons. 
In this episode of Kentucky Commons Radio Hour, we're joined by Louisville author and hot sauce connoisseur Kevin Gibson for a Hot Ones-inspired challenge. Dive into his experiences in beverage journalism, uncover intriguing Louisville history, and taste-test Kevin's homemade hot sauce as we indulge in mouthwatering wings provided by Hometown Brewing + Craft House Pizza.
Featured Reads:
Featured Beers: This episode includes a segment that was used in conjunction with an April Fools Day joke around Budweiser releasing a Kentucky Common. Despite the joke, we do take Kentucky Common seriously. We believe Kentucky Common should be the Official State Beer of Kentucky and we need your help to make that happen. Sign this petition. Support the podcast by giving us a rating and a review. Prefer YouTube? Subscribe to our new channel: www.youtube.com/@louisvillealetrail If you like what you hear, you can tip us a few bucks over on our Patreon: www.patreon.com/kycommons 
4/3/23 Update:
No, Budweiser isn't making a Kentucky Common. Despite our announcement being an April Fools Day joke, we do take the Kentucky Common seriously…so we’re bringing back our campaign: we believe the Kentucky Common should be the Official State Beer of Kentucky. And we need your help to tell that story: Sign the petition. The KING OF COMMONS
We are beyond excited to announce the launch of a brand-new beer that brings together the brewing heritage of St. Louis, MO, and Louisville, KY – Budweiser Kentucky Common. This historic beer style, deeply rooted in American brewing history, is a unique and flavorful addition to the Anheuser-Busch portfolio. You can expect to find thirty-can cases and six-packs of this dark cream ale on shelves and on draft at your favorite bar later this month.
The Kentucky Common has a rich past, originating in the Louisville area in the late 19th century. A favorite among blue-collar workers, this dark cream ale was often enjoyed in taverns and saloons. Known for its darker color, crisp finish, and balanced malt and hop profile, Budweiser Kentucky Common perfectly aligns with the recent trend of simpler, more traditional beers. 
Louisville's Falls City Brewery, circa 1930
By introducing Budweiser Kentucky Common, the largest beer producer in the United States celebrates the shared brewing heritage of St. Louis, home to Anheuser-Busch, and Louisville, with its rich pre-Prohibition brewing history and distinct beer styles and traditions. This unique and delicious beer style will delight beer lovers across the country.
"We're thrilled to introduce our take on this classic beer style," said a spokesperson at Anheuser-Busch. "Budweiser Kentucky Common is a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, and we're excited for beer enthusiasts to try it nationwide." Since we’ve been promoting the Kentucky Common as a style and championing our hometown as a historic beer city since 2020, Louisville Ale Trail is happy to collaborate and help launch Budweiser Kentucky Common. We think the beer style is worth celebrating and we’re excited that such a large brewery has embraced this Kentucky tradition and wants to share it with the world. We feel honored that we’ve been selected to help Anheuser-Busch announce the news.
(Statement of disclosure); In this monumental partnership, AB InBev, Anheuser-Busch’s parent company, has agreed to purchase the intellectual property and service rights to "Louisville Ale Trail®," as well as "Kentucky Commons Radio Hour ™" podcast and associated media, for $5.02 million, contingent and spanning a ten (10) year license agreement, pursuant to all contractual and pre-defined terms, and obligations, and effective immediately.
Budweiser Kentucky Common will be available in select markets across the United States in the coming months after April 1st. For more information, CLICK HERE 
A big thank you to Kevin Gibson for joining us to share this news. Learn more about Louisville beer and history by picking up some of his work here.
|
RSS Feed