This video podcast by Chicagoans Brad Chmielewski and Ken Hunnemeder should be appreciated by beer enthusiasts of all varieties. New fans of craft beer will find Brad and Ken's beer reviews very useful. Hardcore beer geeks will love the interviews with commercial and home-brewers. Chmielewski and Hunnemeder have traveled around the country visiting different breweries, but Chicago breweries really take the spotlight on the Hopcast. And why not? Chicagoland has some of the best breweries in the country. My favorite episode is an interview with Gabriel Magliaro and Matt Gallagher from Half Acre (my current favorite brewery).
The Hop Cast definitely have a laid back and casual vibe to it. Brad and Ken aren't such huge snobs that they would throw away a bottle of beer just because it's a couple of years old. The hosts have a wacky sense of humor and their podcasts often feature friends and family members. However, they have also had Chicago food royalty like Rick Bayless and Paul Kahan of Publican on the show too. The Hop Cast will definitely deepen your appreciation for the fine craft beer produced in this area. Drink well and responsibly!
For even more information on beer, check out one of these awesome titles:
Great Beers: 700 of the Best from Around the World (2010).
641.23 GRE (New Non-Fiction)
Find it in the catalog!
1001 Beers You Must Taste Before You Die (2010).
641.23 ONE (New Non-Fiction)
Find it in the catalog!
Tasting Beer: An Insider's Guide to the World's Greatest Drink (2009).
Mosher, Randy.
641.23 MOS
Find it in the catalog!
Check out my earlier review.
Extreme Brewing: An Enthusiast's Guide to Brewing Craft Beer at Home (2006).
Calagione, Sam.
641.873 CAL
Find it in the catalog!
