Category Archives: Beer News
Hopslam!
Oh, that slightly sweet, golden, hoppy deliciousness. I crave this stuff. Continue reading
There’s a Crispness in the Air
No way around it sun worshipers, the days are getting shorter, the nights are getting cooler, and the beer is getting maltier. It’s time for the fall seasonals. Continue reading
It’s Always Nice to See Old Friends
One of the most frequently asked questions I get behind the bar (other than the ever popular, “So, what’s your favorite?”, and the always funny, “What do you guys have on tap?”) Continue reading
Special Beer, Sacred Stones
Just up the road from Chico, where Sierra Nevada brewery is located, you’ll find something you wouldn’t normally associate with northern California. There, you will find the Abbey of New Clairvaux, home to a community of monks who follow the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance. In short, they’re Trappist monks. Continue reading
Going out on a Limb
That’s right, boys and girls, it’s time to talk about beer again.
Who’s excited? I know I am. Continue reading
Are you ready for the Urban Assault?
What’s got 2,400 wheels, seven obstacles, lot’s of beer and will take you all over Des Moines in just a couple of hours? The 2011 Urban Assault Ride, of course. Continue reading
International IPA Day!
Whether you prefer the earthy, malty, goodness of a Samuel Smith IPA, or the straight up, rip your face off, citrus and herbal explosion of the Oracle from Bell’s, Thursday, August 4 is our day to celebrate. Continue reading
The Nearly Inevitable Brewfest Post
That’s right everybody, next weekend is the 5th annual Cityview Brewfest, and we, once again are a proud sponsor. Continue reading
Change to Wisconsin beer distribution law will hurt small brewers. Or will it?
The Wisconsin Legislature’s Joint Finance Committee recently approved a measure that would change the way that state handles beer distribution. Let’s talk about it. Continue reading
New on tap from Goose Island
We’ve gotten so much great new stuff in over the course of the last couple of weeks that I’m going to break it down by brewery. This time out, let’s talk about Goose Island. Continue reading
El Bait Shop Smorgasbord
Say that 10 times fast! Since we have so much going on these days, I think I will keep this post focused on the variety of activities you can participate in at el Bait Shop, and get to the beer … Continue reading
American Craft Beer Week!
The Mother of all Beer Weeks is right around the corner! American Craft Beer Week, May 16-22nd, has become the largest national effort focused on Craft Beer in the states. 2011 is the first year that all 50 states will … Continue reading
Yep, I’m finally going to talk about new beer again.
I know, I’ve been failing in my duty to keep you updated about what’s new here at Ye Olde El Bait Shop. That ends now. Continue reading
Newcastle Summer Ale?
Yep. Newcastle Summer Ale. Also Newcastle Werewolf, Newcastle Winter IPA, and Newcastle Founder’s Ale. Who would have guessed? Continue reading
Wave goodbye, with your Left Hand
Unfortunately, Left Hand Brewery from Longmont, Colorado recently decided to cease distribution in Iowa. My question to you, loyal reader, is how can we prevent future pullouts? Continue reading
Lots and lots of new drafts (3/13)
Holy cow, we’ve got a lot of new beers. In no particular order, here’s what’s new since the last time we talked: Continue reading
What’s in your Back Pocket?
Tonight from 4-6, Head Brewer Jacob Simmons will be here with five brews from our newest friends at Back Pocket Brewery. Continue reading
Missed us on TV? Here ya go.
We’ve been talking a lot about the BeerGenius lately, and for good reason. Continue reading
Introducing Toby, Our Resident Beer Genius!
It’s the same story every time. You have way too many beers! How am I supposed to choose? Wow! This is overwhelming! As a bartender at the best beer bar in Iowa (ok, so I might be a bit biased … Continue reading
New Beers for February 11
Sean talks about the new beers for February 11. Continue reading

