In this issue

The autumnal shift is right around the bend, and as the hues of leaves skew brighter, the beers get darker. Easy-sipping ales with whiffs of lemon and mango give way to bold browns and hearty porters, and long nights under lights with lagers cede to fireside stouts as the days grow shorter.

No matter how technologically advanced we become, we are reliant on living, breathing nature. Brewers may be especially aware of this fact – all grains, hops and yeast are or were, at least in some stage of the beermaking process, alive. The intrinsic connection of beer to nature is enescapable. Just ask The Mixed-Culture Master, Chad Yakobson. The Crooked Stave founder goes to great lengths to ensure the organisms living in his barrels thrive, but don't run rampant. For more on foeders, the large barrels in which these micro-organisms work their magic, check out The Art of Coopering Part II.

For a different look at how nature can inspire, we'll talk with Red Hare co-founder Bobby Thomas to find out how Chasing the Rabbit put a new hop in his step, and enjoy specially prepared seafood and beer pairings with award-winning Chef Erin Coopey.

Our thirst for knowledge leads us to do some Drinking in the French Countryside with Owen Ogletree, before sniffing out the difference of two harvest-time favorites in Oktoberfest vs. Marzen. Meanwhile, Jonathan Ingram lays down the law regarding Why Beers Need Packaged On Dates, and we keep you covered with all the news, events, and more expert reviews than you can shake a snifter at, with Brewer Q+A's to boot.

Here's to the joy that comes with opening a bottle, can or (digital magazine), and savoring every last droplet (of knowledge). We hope you enjoy the Fall Issue of The Beer Connoisseur!

The Mixed-Culture Master

Chad Yakobson of Crooked Stave discusses his brewing techniques and his pioneering work with Brettanomyces.

8 mins

Chasing the Rabbit: Bobby Thomas of Red Hare Brewing

The head brewer talks background, beers and bunnies.

5 mins

Why Beers Need “Packaged On” Dates

I recently completed a beer trade with a couple of friends and ended up with the equivalent of two mixed six-packs after the swap.

6 mins

Foeders

The Barrel's Big Brother

5 mins

Read all stories from The Beer Connoisseur®

The Beer Connoisseur® Magazine Description:

Discover the World of Beer

Delve into the world's premier beer magazine as it explores beer culture both in America and abroad. The reader will find informative articles on craft beers and those who brew them. You may also expect expert beer reviews, dining, cooking with recipes, international travel, brewery tours, personalities, style studies, culture and more.

The Beer Connoisseur® Magazine & Online is the leading authority of this rising phenomenon, with a goal of delivering the message to those who have yet to embrace this rich lifestyle.

The reader will find magazine articles and unique online content on craft beers and those who brew them. You may also expect in-depth beer reviews, the best in dining, cooking with recipes, international travel articles, brewery tours, industry personalities, up-close beer-style studies, culture and more.