From the Editor, Issue 75

The holidays are a joyful time, and their return also marks the return of us here at The Beer Connoisseur. So come one, come all and welcome – to the 75th edition of The Beer Connoisseur Magazine!

This issue has terrific stories aplenty that will appeal to a wide range of beer fans – from dark beer aficionados to lagerheads.

Issue 75 kicks off with an intriguing editorial from Jim Dykstra, who decries the use of AI slop in creative fields and lifts up the stuff that helped the Founding Fathers frame the Constitution and create the United States of America. I’m talking, of course, about beer!

Then, it’s an intriguing piece delivering seven terrific Thanksgiving recipes alongside corresponding beer pairings that will have even your most curmudgeonly uncle beaming with happiness.

Next up is our bi-monthly What We’re Drinking Now column, with some terrific holiday seasonals mentioned, including some top-tier Christmas Ales that will be available soon, if they aren’t already.

Speaking of Christmas Beers, our next piece delivers an Advent calendar’s worth of the famed seasonal style in advance of the Christmas season. These tremendously interesting, flavorful and festive beers are sure to have you thanking your lucky stars you’re on the “nice” list.

Following that is a detailed piece about Chicago’s beloved Festival of Wood and Barrel-Aged beer, a beer connoisseur’s paradise that specializes in beers that are aged on wood or in barrels. Unsurprisingly, these beers are replete with terrific aromas and flavors and ooze complexity.

A detailed education story about Modelo Beer follows, which covers the history of this venerable brand as well as its rise to being the top-selling brand in the U.S. – and one of the top sellers around the world.

Lastly, it’s an investigation into the Doppelbock style, which dates back centuries to when monks brewed it to drink during Lenten fasts. This strong, dark brew is eminently enjoyable and is a favorite of those who enjoy delectably rich German styles.

Of course, the issue wouldn’t be complete with our Industry News, Official Review and Brewer Q&As, which are present here, as always.

We thank you, once again, for joining us this holiday season and we wish you all the best as we close out 2024.

Happy Holidays and Cheers from The Beer Connoisseur family to you!

Chris Guest
- Managing Editor