The post Beerknurd Gifting Guide 2023 appeared first on Beerknews.
]]>https://www.northernbrewer.com/products/craft-beer-making-gift-set-kama-citra-session-ipa
Every beer fanatic should brew at least once, even if it’s with a simple extract kit like the gift sets available from Northern Brewer. There are several kits available catering to a variety of tastes and interest levels. If you want to take this gift idea to the next level, stop into your local homebrew shop for even more options.
https://www.3floyds.com/product/3-floyds-flannel-shirt/
Been dying to get your favorite Beerknurd out of all those t-shirts? A flannel from Munster Indiana legends 3 Floyds might get them into a collared shirt on the weekends for once. If they won’t budge on T-shirts, 3 Floyds current lineup of tees is among our favorite beer merch offerings for 2023.
https://pretentiousglassco.com/product-category/special/2nd-sale/
Hear us out, you need more glassware if it’s as cool as the hand blown art pieces from Pretentious Glass Company. Yes, the glasses are pricey but they are handmade and each glass is completely unique, making them not only great quality but also great conversation starters. Looking for a deal? Check their “2nd’s Sale” section. We can speak from experience when we say even the “flawed” glassware available on this page is every bit as beautiful as their full price glassware.
https://shop.beerknurd.com/product/saucer-dad-hat/
Wear what the real Beerknurds wear. This unstructured casual dad hat from ’47 brand is emblazoned with our iconic Saucer logo. It’s our go to style for day to day wear, from the bar to the golf course to our favorite brewery tour.
https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/andre-darlington/a-booze-vinyl-christmas/9780762482856/
Our personal beer & libations library now tallies over 120 books. After amsassing such a collection, undoubtedly, the books in the “Booze & Vinyl” series are among our very favorites. The Christmas edition is not only fun way to start a new tradition you can revisit each Christmas season, it’s a great conversation starter at holiday gatherings. If you are one of those folks who is especially Christmas music averse, the 2 standard editions are winners as well.
https://shop.mainebeercompany.com/collections/other/products/beer-mustard
There is a ton of beer based food offerings out there but this mustard from Maine Beer Company might be our favorite. Made in small batches, it’s the same mustard served at the Maine taproom. What’s more, the mustard is made using their world class IPA, Lunch.
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-beer-bucket-list-mark-dredge/1129794885
If you wanna know what we bought for ourselves this year, here it is. This is it. This list of trips, challenges & experiences is an excellent checklist of things every true beer lover should do. The rundown includes some of the best craft breweries in America, Macro brewing mainstays, plus bars, breweries and other can’t miss stops from around the globe. Even after decades in the industry, we had only ticked a small number of the fun jaunts. This is a must have checklist for any beer traveler.
https://shop.beerknurd.com/
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]]>The post BEER FESTIVALS ARE (STILL) ALIVE appeared first on Beerknews.
]]>This year was a bit different for me, though. I was nervous about the upcoming festival season because I heard noise that festivals may be dead in America. Specifically, Todd Alstrom posted about this subject in a forum on Beer Advocate. Here’s a link to that forum. However, I was pleased to discover that this year’s beer festivals I attended were nothing short of amazing. Come with me as I share this year’s festival experiences with the hopeful, adventurous, beer-loving Beerknurds.
First, let’s start with my trip to Germany. It’s not America, but I frequently referenced this experience with what Todd wrote about, as it turned out to be one of the best work trips of my life. We flew into Munich, Germany where we took a short trip over to Freising, home to Weihenstephan brewery. Freising is considered the heart of old Bavaria. Saint Corbinian founded the monastery that would later become Weihenstephan in 725 A.D. Rich in Bavaria beer-making history, they have been making incredible beer for around 1000 years from this location.
After a tour of the amazingly old brewery that has been combined with the world’s best beer-making technology, we headed to a hop farm in the Hallertau region. We received an incredible heartfelt thanks from the farmers that grow, cultivate and process the hops for all of the German beers we imbibe. Their hospitality was incredible.
Later, we changed into some lederhosen and participated in a parade by walking to the opening night of the Freising Volksfest. Oktoberfest is a celebration in Munich for Prince Ludwig’s wedding in 1810, whereas Volksfest celebrates the hop harvest outside of Munich, and started in 1818. When we were there, nearly 10,000 people showed up for the first night of Volksfest. The attendance is around that amount every night for 10 straight days. Everyone comes to Volksfest to try a festbier by Weihenstephan, which is the star of the show, not some bourbon-barrel-aged whale.
Next, I went to the Great American Beer Festival in Denver, Colorado. Our company has the pleasure of taking our some of our long-term customers around the town to meet up with our best brewery partners. Every year, it’s so exciting to meet up with Knurds who haven’t had the chance to see this experience yet, or those who love going so much that they make it part of their yearly routine. It’s a great chance for the breweries to say thanks to our customers for all the beers they have consumed, and for us to show them a great time in one of the best beer cities in the world.
Great American Beer Festival is the largest beer festival in America. There are events all over the city, and breweries submit beers to a highly educated judging committee to be awarded for their beers. This year, there were 263 breweries that won 303 medals for some extremely great beer making. The events around the festival in Denver are equally impressive with some of the best tap lists and tap takeovers imaginable to an excited Beerknurd, like me, and countless others. I ran all over the city to try great stuff, such as Cohesion’s lager program, Finn’s Manor tap list, and countless tap take overs.
Another amazing festival I was a part of was in Sugar Land, Texas. The 2nd annual Sugar Land Town Square Oktoberfest hosted nearly 7,000 attendees. It was an incredible day of Dachshund races, a stein hoisting competition, a beer tasting with several rare beers, over 30 Oktoberfest beers, and awesome live music. The amount of beer we sold was something that I hadn’t seen in one single day of my career. It was so moving to see the amount of Beerknurds show up and tell us what a great time they were having. We also put together similarly amazing festivals at our San Antonio Flying Saucer and Fort Worth Flying Saucer that brought Beerknurds out to try some of the rarest beers available.
I’ve been in the craft beer business for 20 years, and I can tell you that beer festivals are (still) alive and well. I am very proud to keep beer festival traditions going, and I stand by the fact that every festival we are a part of as a company is well worth it to our customers. Being able to try beers from all over the world in one setting is an incredible experience to this day for people who love adventure. When you’re looking for that experience in 2024, don’t listen to the noise. Push “click” on that festival purchase. I promise you won’t regret it.
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]]>The post Mary Katherine Peek: Best Bartender in Arkansas! appeared first on Beerknews.
]]>That’s why it makes us extra proud when our staff’s efforts are recognized and rewarded by those outside the inner circle. It happened recently when Mary Katherine Peek from Little Rock Flying Saucer was named Best Bartender in Arkansas by readers of the Arkansas Times. We wanted to help celebrate Mary Katherine and shine the spotlight on her by picking her beer brain a bit.
So, read on and learn more about Little Rock’s Best Bartender.
I have been at the Flying Saucer since 2013. I can’t believe it’s almost been a decade! I guess time flies when you’re having fun.
My favorite part of my job is definitely the people I get to see everyday. My coworkers, new customers, regulars. I’ve met so many phenomenal people along the way and some have even become like family to me.
To me, it makes me feel really thankful. I truly love my job because I get to tell people all about something I’m truly interested in: beer. It also makes me feel appreciative because people must like my presence as much as I enjoy theirs. *cue warm and fuzzy feeling*
Definitely speed. I’m always going so fast. If I were interviewing for The Flash, I would knock it out of the park.
There’s an old law still technically on the books that states it’s illegal to mispronounce Arkansas. Which I think is hilarious because locals do get a bit offended if you pronounce it Ar-kansas.
Samuel Smith Taddy Porter. It’s funny to think that I used to be a domestic beer kinda girl but jumped right into loving porters and stouts and never looked back.
French 75. Super refreshing and has an interesting story behind it that dates back to World War I. Gin, fresh lemon, simple syrup, and champagne. All of my favorite things.
Actually my favorite Saucer story is how I got hired. I was sitting on a bench outside and was talking to a friend of mine about needing a job. Slade (who is now my manager) just happened to be standing next to me and said “You do? Want to fill out an application?” I did it right then and there and that was the start of thousands of Saucer stories!
Harry Styles, J.R.R Tolkien, Jeremy Clarkson.
90’s music all day!
There you have it! Thank you to the readers of Arkansas Times for voting for Mary Katherine, thank you to the Little Rock Beerknurds, and thank you to the entire Flying Saucer staff family for supporting the Best Beer Bar in Little Rock and Arkansas!
And CONGRATULATIONS Mary Katherine! A very well-deserved award. Thank you for all you do!
Read more about other Toast of the Town winners in Arkansas Times’ Best of Issue.
Do YOU have a favorite Flying Saucer staff member you feel needs celebrating? Let us know! More importantly, let THEM know!
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]]>The post Flying Saucer’s 2021 Christmas Shopping Guide appeared first on Beerknews.
]]>We know shopping can be stressful and take away from your Flying Saucer time. Thanks to this Beerknurd-friendly Christmas Shopping Guide and the beautiful world of online shopping, you don’t have to run around from store-to-store, fight all that traffic, and lose out on your trek to your next plate. Instead, just peep these recommendations, make a few clicks, and you’re done!
Not only is this gift guide full of Christmas gift ideas for beer lovers but they are ways to support some incredible partners, friends, and even some Beerknurds!
Since 2010, Pints and Panels has been making learning about and celebrating beer easier for those of us who are more visual learners. Using her unique and fantastic artistic gifts, Em Sauter (the genius behind Pints and Panels) puts forth wonderful pieces of artwork that look great on social media AND in your home or office. The attention-grabbing creations cover everything from raw brewing ingredients to easy explanation of off-flavors to pairing suggestions for your favorite beer styles.
Shop for prints, stickers, koozies, and even Cicerone study materials at her online shop. Be sure to follow her on social media, too.
SHOP: pintsandpanels.com
The Hop Topic World crew is a mission-focused group of Beerknurds and beer lovers bringing authentic inclusion to the Craft Beer Community. Long-time supporters of the Sugar Land and Houston Flying Saucers, Hop Topic World hosts podcasts, writes intriguing essays, and gathers people together to celebrate beer. They want to make beer more available and more welcoming to parts of society that historically haven’t felt welcome – either because of race, gender, ethnicity, or any other barriers. Through beer they have found a platform to affect change and it’s inspiring to see. They are truly passionate, brilliant, and amazing – and worthy of your support.
Their merch store is loaded with excellent gift ideas for beer lovers. Grab some gifts and support their cause. Give them a follow on social media and sign up for their newsletter.
SHOP: hoptopicworld.com
Despite what some may say, every Beerknurd could always use more glassware. EVERY. ALWAYS. And so, grab some excellent vintage glassware from Unibroue and do some good while you’re at it. Unibroue is offering up 10-pack boxes of their glassware and each box supports women and children in need. Per their site: “Unibroue has prepared surprise boxes containing 10 randomly selected collectible glasses. 100% of the contributions related to this box will be donated to La Maison Simonne-Monet-Chartrand to help women victims of domestic violence, as well as their children.”
SHOP: unibroue.com
What’s better than kicking back at the end of the day with a beer and some light, beer-related reading material? Not a whole hell of a lot. Give the Beerknurd in your life a subscription to Beer Connoisseur magazine, longtime supporters of Flying Saucer and a world-class publication. You’ll find articles that appeal to those just starting their craft beer journey AND to the Knurdiest of Knurds. It’s an invaluable resource and extremely entertaining.
SHOP: beerconnoisseur.com
Look. Ain’t nothing wrong with a little self-care and a relaxing soak in the tub. Especially with a fine beer. Whipped Up Wonderful makes it more fun with handmade bath bombs, shower steamers, and other products to help your skin and body feel good. All products are handmade from all-natural, trustworthy ingredients in a tiny workshop in Dallas by a small team of Beerknurds. And they look f***ing awesome!
The designs are true works of pop art that look like sweet treats into which you’d happily sink your teeth. And while you could do that, you’ll get a much better experience dropping them into your bath or shower and just taking a moment.
Find fantastically scented products for women AND men! Even fun bath bombs for children with hidden surprises.
SHOP: whippedupwonderful.com
Flying Saucer isn’t just about drinking as much beer as you can. Our mission is to educate, celebrate, and explore the seemingly infinite world of craft beer. Education is key and what we pride ourselves on. If you have someone in your life that thirsts for a well-made Double IPA AND knowledge, we have some book recommendations for you:
THE BEER BIBLE by Jeff Alworth
From the back cover: “Imagine sitting in your favorite pub with a friend who happens to a world-class expert on beer. That’s this book.” The Beer Bible is an approachable, encyclopedic, and entertaining breakdown of everything you’ve probably ever wanted to know about beer. Jump in. Jump out. Jump around. It’s a wonderful resource and a great book to have in a Beerknurd library.
ORDER: jeffalworth.com
BREWMASTER’S TABLE by Garrett Oliver
We’re the first to admit it: we prefer beer over wine when it comes pairing with food.We find it so much more interesting, complex, and full of potential. But it can be really tricky. Luckily, Garrett Oliver gave the world the Brewmaster’s Table in which we makes beer and food pairing that much easier. Full of tips, tricks, explanations, and recipes, this is a perfect gift for the beer-loving foodie in your life.
ORDER: brooklynbrewery.com
THE OXFORD COMPANION TO BEER by Garrett Oliver
Just like The Beer Bible is a super-deep and encyclopedic dive into beer, The Oxford Companion, goes into the history, explores myths and facts, discusses sociology, and is an unabashed love letter to beer. Oliver helped compile and edit the book which is a compilation of insight from 166 contributors from around the world. The information is deep and the number of random, party, chit-chat factoids to mine is infinite.
ORDER: brooklynbrewery.com
We’ve talked about the Michael Jackson Foundation before and continue to be big believers and supporters of their mission. Established by Brooklyn Brewery’s Garrett Oliver, the foundation funds “technical education and career advancement for black, indigenous, and people of color in the brewing and distilling industries.” Named after one of the most influential humans in the history of craft beer, the MJF has awarded scholarships to 13 well-deserving individuals who are driven to make their mark on the brewing and distilling industries. If you are looking to give a gift to that person that has everything, a donation to the MJF in that person’s honor is the perfect idea.
LEARN MORE & DONATE: themjf.org
Yet again, the hottest gift continues to be anything from Flying Saucer Draught Emporium! It’s remarkable. Every year, Beerknurds just can’t get enough of the Saucer. So, don’t even try to deny the people what they need. It’s like depriving them of oxygen.
Flying Saucer gift cards, shirts, hats, and even UFO Club Memberships are the perfect gift for family, friends, colleagues, awkward acquaintances, and even random strangers. When all else fails, stuff those stockings with Saucer.
We hope this guide helps. You can find inspiration from the 2020 Christmas Gift Guide, too!
MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY HOLIDAYS, BEERKNURDS!
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]]>The post Houston Beerknurds! Send us your photos! appeared first on Beerknews.
]]>2021 marks Houston Flying Saucer’s 21st anniversary. They’re celebrating with a big kegger-style bash on Saturday, August 21st. We want to help them celebrate by gathering and sharing your favorite photos of YOU celebrating craft beer in Houston, TX at Flying Saucer.
Here’s how:
1.) Scroll through your phone, your social media, your camera, your old memory cards, your photo books, your undeveloped disposable cameras. (Side: how many of you have no idea what we were just talking about?)
2.) Submit them to us by:
Send ’em over by TUESDAY, AUGUST 24th. so we can get them gathered, posted, shared, celebrate your photography skills, and 21 great years in Houston.
Thank you, Houston Beerknurds, for supporting us!
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]]>The post Michael Jackson Foundation: Brewing good & raising spirits appeared first on Beerknews.
]]>The Michael J. Jackson Foundation is named in honor of Michael James Jackson, a.k.a. “The Beer Hunter”, an English writer who can undeniably be credited with sparking the American Craft Beer movement. He was also – as perfectly worded by Garrett Oliver – “actively and profoundly anti-racist.” Oliver is Brewmaster at Brooklyn Brewery, as well as an accomplished writer, an American Craft Beer icon, and the founder of the MJF.
Established in 2020, the Michael J. Jackson Foundation announced its first five scholarship winners in early 2021. The MJF will annually award two scholarships to worthy recipients: The Sir Geoff Palmer Scholarship Award for Brewing and The Nearest Green Scholarship Award for Distilling.
Sir Godfrey Henry Oliver “Geoff” Palmer is a Professor Emeritus in the School of Life Sciences at Heriot-Watt University. He’s a pioneering scientist and educator as he is the first Black professor in the history of Scotland. He’s a foremost expert in grain science, inventor of the barley abrasion process, winner of the Award of Distinction from The American Society of Brewing Chemists (the “Nobel Prize of Brewing”), and human rights activist. He was recently named Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, one of the most prestigious brewing and distilling schools in the world.
Nearest Green was the first known African-American distiller, originally while enslaved, and the original Master Distiller for Jack Daniel’s Distillery. “Uncle Nearest” was hailed by local preacher Dan Call as “the best whiskey maker” he knew of and – along with Call – worked with a 15-year-old orphan to craft and sell Tennessee Whiskey. That orphan boy would come to be known as Jack Daniels. Daniels bought out the company and after Nearest was a Free Man, offered Nearest the job as Master Distiller. Together they built the Jack Daniels brand. To this day, Nearest Green’s family – seven straight generations – has continuously worked for Jack Daniels.
LATROYA BUTTS – SIR GEOFF PALMER SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNER
JONATHAN CANO – SIR GEOFF PALMER SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNER
ENRIQUE LEYVA – SIR GEOFF PALMER SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNER
ALEXANDRA TURNER – SIR GEOFF PALMER SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNER
LANNON POWELL – SIR GEOFF PALMER SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNER
Congratulations to the inaugural recipients! We look forward to the impact the MJF will have on this world, both in our culture and in our glass.
For more information and to donate to The Michael J. Jackson Foundation, please visit the MJF Website. Cheers to the winners, cheers to Garrett Oliver and his fellow MJF Board Members, the MJF as a whole, and to Michael Jackson. This American Craft Beer Week is because of and dedicated to you all.
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]]>The post 2020 was tough but… appeared first on Beerknews.
]]>In October 2019 and the beginning of 2020 I was spending a lot of time traveling around the country to meet with Saucer management teams, plan with our fantastic ownership team, work at beer festivals, and meet up with amazing Beerknurds at the Great American Beer Festival. What happens at GABF stays at GABF
Every Saucer I went to was bustling. There are few things I love more than walking into a Flying Saucer and seeing it firing on all cylinders. I have a great sense of pride when I hear staff talking about great beer with our regulars and watching my favorite breweries’ beers fly off the tap. Flying Saucer was having record-setting sales at several of our locations and gearing up for our best year ever. I met up with the fantastic San Antonio team to prepare for a huge Craft Beer Conference in April. 2020 was going to be lit!
Then the COVID-19 pandemic swept the nation. We have all had our own experiences, and I’m sure there are many people worse off than we are, but our work life definitely changed. It became increasingly stressful trying to adapt to the changing business guidelines handed down from local and state officials.
“I have always loved the Flying Saucer, but this year made me love it so much more. “
Once we were modified to a strictly to-go operation, we all had to pivot from our typical business model and focus on surviving. Almost everything I was working on as Beer Director was put on pause. The new modus operandi was to participate in daily meetings with ownership and managers across the country so we could strategize together on how to stay alive. The hustle was real.
We heavily focused on to-go beer deals to liquidate our product fast. It was very tough to let some of our long-term vendors know that we didn’t need them during the shutdown. It was even tougher to let our great staff know that we didn’t have work for them until things picked up. They all knew it was coming, but actually telling these people that you don’t need them due to something out of your control was emotional for all of our management teams.
“You guys can’t close because this is my family.”
Although none of this was ideal, and nothing that any of us were accustomed to, the ideas were flowing. I was blown away by the ideas for Special Glassware, Grocery Bundles, Special Six-Packs, and Growler Bundles. We were throwing everything at the wall!
Despite all of the great ideas and effort, the sales were not always there. Business offices were closing in most of our markets. Concert venues were not open, no sports, and no conventions. There was really no walk-in business. But, the people who always showed up were the Beeknurds. The absolute best regulars in the world. They always showed up to buy some beer and take care of the staff. The amount of love pouring in from our regulars brought me to tears several times.
“But, the people who always showed up were the Beeknurds. The absolute best regulars in the world.”
I had a very impactful conversation early on in the pandemic with one such Beerknurd. This Beerknurd, who has several plates on the wall, was waiting in line to buy some to-go beer. I had not seen him since the pandemic started. He wanted to give me a hug and I wanted to take that big hug. But…you know…social distancing. Teary-eyed, he asked if we were going to make it. I told him I wasn’t sure, but I had great faith in our team up top and on the ground to make it happen. The part I will never forget is when he said, “You guys can’t close because this is my family.”
I grew up with a Dad who owned a bar. When my dad would leave to open the bar after we opened our presents Christmas morning, I remember asking him why he had to go to work on Christmas. He said that the bar is like family to some people. I don’t think I fully understood that until 2020. It really is a family.
The camaraderie at a bar is something I have always loved. It is just different than a restaurant. The flowing drinks, the good music, the holiday parties, the happy hours, the wedding receptions, the bachelor and bachelorette parties, the first dates, the date nights, and the plate parties. The plate parties at the Saucer are the best. It’s always great to see the pride in that Beerknurd’s face when you stand on the bar to toast them in front of all their peers. They have accomplished something that few have – the journey to 200 different beers. Whether knowingly or unknowingly, they have supported some of the best breweries in the world along the way.
The staff at the Saucer is some of the best I have seen. I have witnessed some of our staff meet their significant others at the Saucer, get married, have families, and then return to gush their love for the Saucer. Some of our staff have grown from punk rebellious teenagers to fully-functioning adults. Some of our long-term staff have also grown into new roles with the company. I’ve met some of my best friends at the Flying Saucer and also watched my co-workers build lifelong friendships.
Sure, we are a beer bar. A beer bar that has been open for nearly 20 years at most locations (25 at our original). But we’re also a home for people from every walk of life. And unfortunately, we lost some of those homes along the way. It’s a heartbreaking decision to have to say goodbye to cities that have supported the way Kansas City, Columbia, and Addison have. We miss you very much, Beerknurds. We’re sorry to not be there with you today. Thank you for the memories. Thank you for allowing us to serve you great beer.
But without being callous, 2020 marked the 25th Anniversary of the 1st day of Flying Saucer serving good beer to good people. Not many bars and restaurants can flex something like that. But, none of those bars or restaurants have what we have. We have this really great secret weapon that will be the reason that both the idea of and the actual brand “Flying Saucer Draught Emporium” made it through 2020. And it’s the reason that we will still be serving you the best possible beer we can get our hands on for many, many more years to come. That secret weapon is…the Beerknurds.
THANK YOU TO ALL THE BEERKNURDS. Thank you for coming in and supporting us this year. Thank you for every year, but thank you especially for this hard year. Thank you so much for supporting all of our great specials…and all our silly specials, too. Thank you for tipping way more than you should, and probably more than some of you could actually afford to, just to make sure that our staff was able to survive. I will never take a Beerknurd for granted again. I will run to change any television in the place for you as fast as I can from now on (even you, Randy).
I have always loved the Flying Saucer, but this year made me love it so much more. Thank you, Beerknurds, for treating us like family. Cheers!
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]]>The post Josh Justice’s Christmas Music That Doesn’t Suck List appeared first on Beerknews.
]]>Aside from being an incredible manager and beloved part of the Flying Saucer family, Josh is famous for two things. One, his appearance on Google Maps. Two, his strong opinions. Opinions on beer, pop culture, sports, the hospitality industry – everything. And that includes music. So, we asked Josh to put together a list of his favorite Christmas songs to share with you all.
We personally think it’s a great list and we hope you do too. If not, you can let Josh know. Merry Christmas and happy listening from us at Flying Saucer! And remember you can still get some great last-minute Christmas gifts from some of our best partners.
“MERRY CHRISTMAS (I DON’T WANT TO FIGHT TONIGHT)” – THE RAMONES
Josh Says: “I’ve lived a ways off from my family for a good portion of my adult life so Xmas for me reminds me of drinking beer with friends around dive bar jukeboxes. Nothing better sums that up than the Ramones. It’s sad, it’s happy, it’s a great summation of Christmas.”
“HAVE YOURSELF A MERRY LITTLE CHRISTMAS” – LEE VING
Josh Says: “I’m a sucker for covers. This one from the former lead singer of Fear is a nice mashup of punk camp and traditional Christmas.”
“CHRISTMAS (BABY PLEASE COME HOME)” – JOEY RAMONE
Josh Says: “More Ramones…sense a pattern?”
“ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS YOU” – MARIAH CAREY
Josh Says: “I don’t care if you hate it. I love everything about this song. I’ll fight you about it.”
“WHITE CHRISTMAS” – BING CROSBY & DANNY “F***ING” KAYE
Josh Says: “Favorite Xmas song from favorite Xmas movie.”
Who could use some Christmas beer and cheer?! Come and get it! Merry Christmas, Beerknurds!
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]]>The post Flying Saucer’s 2020 Beerknurd Shopping Guide appeared first on Beerknews.
]]>And remember, if all else fails, a Flying Saucer gift card is always the perfect present.
MINDY’S BEER GEAR
Perfect for: Craft Beer Lovers; Eco-Friendly; Beer Fashionistas
The eponymous Mindy handcrafts awesome beer gear by upcycling beer boxes she comes across. She turned a Bell’s Two Hearted beer box into a wallet, a Sierra Nevada Bigfoot beer box into a dog collar, an Alaskan Spruce IPA beer box into a tiara, and even a New Belgium beer box into a bowtie. When COVID took over, she started making beer-inspired masks and now does her best to keep up with demand. Everything she makes is cut and sewn by hand. So, each piece has a bit of uniqueness to it and full of her love and artistry. Act fast and you might be able to score this Resting Beer Face mask!
Shop Now: https://www.mindysbeergear.com/
BEER CONNOISSEUR
Perfect for: Beerlovers, Readers,
Over 8 million readers can’t be wrong! The Beer Connoisseur is one of the most read craft beer publications by both consumers and industry pros. The BC team explores craft beer culture in America and abroad through their online articles, industry news, beer reviews, style guides, brewer/brewery profiles, and more. A subscription can help you be the Beerknurd with the biggest beer brain at the bar. And compliments of Flying Saucer Draught Emporium, take advantage of a limited time 30% discount on any subscription option with coupon code KNURD30. A subscription is great for last-minute shoppers…or for yourself. Immediately download and print a gift card with the purchase. Stuff it in a stocking or send it over via email. It’s time to become a beer connoisseur and attempt to keep up with our Beer Goddesses!
Shop Now: https://beerconnoisseur.com/premium-subscription – use code KNURD30
JUST HIT SEND GIFTS
Perfect for: Client & Employees; Hard-To-Shop-For Friends; Host/Hostess Gifts, Shoppingly-Challenged Beerknurds
Just Hit Send makes shopping and gifting super easy. Browse through high-end premade packages or build your own from collections of curated goodies on their website, enter the recipient’s info, and hit “send.” The Just Hit Send team takes care of the rest. Need something for clients or employees working from home? They got you. Something for your awkward brother-in-law? They got you. Just need ANYTHING for that annoying-ass friend or family member who refuses to admit they want anything for Christmas? They got you. You can feel good about your purchase thanks to their sustainability practices and the portion of proceeds they give to OneTreePlanted to plant trees.
Shop Now: https://www.justhitsendgifts.com/
APOLLO
Perfect for: Houstonians
Have someone on your list with a deep, unapologetic, and – frankly – concerning obsession with Houston? Perhaps, specifically the Houston Astros? Check out Apollo for t-shirts, hoodies, and masks that drip Space City culture. The designs are legit and very cool (even non-Houstonians will recognize that) and the quality is great. So, regardless of whether you’re trash can banging is ironic or not – H-Town is for Everyone.
Shop Now: https://apollohou.com/
BAYOU BURNS CANDLE COMPANY
Perfect For: Candle Addicts, Freshly Sparked Romances, the Olfactorily Fixated, Deodorant Deniers
Bayou Burns is proving that candles aren’t just for grandma or a give-up gift. This company started by a couple of friends is taking their passion for fresh fragrances and giving it to the world in the form of hand-poured, all natural, candles. Browse creative and brilliantly constructed candles with scents for just about everyone: The Grind (for coffee lovers), 100% That Candle (for Lizzo fans), Sunday Vibes (for the die-hard brunch fan), the Man Cave Bundle (for the dude that needs a not-so-subtle suggestion), or the Girl, Relax (for the Karen in your life.) Ship one so they can spark one.
Shop Now: https://bayou-burns-candle-co.myshopify.com/
BEES BUBBLES
Perfect For: Bathknurds, Beerknurds Trying to Recover from a Plate Party, Stocking Stuffers,
Plop plop. Fizz fizz. Oh what a relief it is. Not indigestion medicine, but these handmade bath products from Bees Bubbles. These friends of Flying Saucer started their bath and body business as a hobby and grew it to the point that they’re now featured on this amazing blog! All their creations are natural and tested out by Tracie – creator/designer/owner – herself. These bath bombs and shower melts are perfect for Beerknurds trying to recover the day after their plate party – or for adding an extra level of luxury to your daily sobs in the tub.
Shop Now: https://beesbubbles.com/
44 FARMS
Perfect For: Beef Lovers
Give the give of beef this Christmas. But not just regular beef. INCREDIBLE beef from good friends and partners of Flying Saucer, 44 Farms. Family owned and operated 44 Farms has been in operation since 1909 and is recognized as one of the “premier Black Angus producers in the county.” The ranchers focus on the health of their livestock and the land on which they live. Multiple generations worth of ranching expertise has resulted in some of the highest quality beef that both restaurants and home cooks drool over. Shop for Christmas Holiday Gifts and Packages because…#beef. FYI – that Christmas Prime Rib Package is probably underpriced! Get it! Beef: it’s what’s for Christmas! (Can we say that without getting sued?)
Shop Now: https://www.44steaks.com/
FLOURPRESS
Perfect For: Sweet Toothed Beerknurds
Frequently a partner with San Antonio Flying Saucer pairings, Flourpress makes incredible cookies, cakes, and other confections – both traditional and inventive. Almond raisin scones, Gingerbread Muffins, Spiced Cocoa Poptarts, and Chocolate Hazelnut Linzer Cookies are some of their latest creations. They put out a menu of goodies every Thursday that you can order for Saturday pickup. Act fast. When they’re gone – they’re gone.
Shop Now (well.Thursday): https://www.flourpress.com/
VAQUERO COFFEE CO.
Perfect For: Coffeeknurds, Caffeine Junkies
Incredible coffee from coffee snobs of the highest order. What Flying Saucer is to craft beer education and knowledge, the folks at Vaquero Coffee are to craft coffee. They know their beans. Their grinds are divine. Their java is the jam. Order their coffees (blended and roasted in-house) from their website for local or national delivery. Choose from whole beans or their new line of K-Cups at their online store. You can even get a monthly subscription to make sure someone you know will always have you to thank as they’re running through walls like the Kool-Aid man, high on that Vaquero Coffee supply.
Shop Now: https://www.vaquerocoffeeco.com/
HOPPY HEAT
Perfect For: Foodies, Spice Addicts, Beerknurds Who Think Beer Should Go In Everything
Do you know anyone that thinks the only way to improve hot sauce is by adding beer? If so, they need the hot sauces and mustard Hoppy Heat bottles. The Houston-based sauce slingers bring the heat with small batches of sauces made by hand and with fresh local produce. Then, they up the game by adding Houston beer to their recipes. Each recipe is unique, inspired by the team’s creative personalities, free of mysterious crap, and full of bold flavor. Enjoy flavors like Figgy Smalls (made with Eureka Heights’ Moo Caliente Milk Stout), Oye Como Guava (made with Urban South’s Triple Spilled Sour), and Bob’s Hair Tonic (made with Brash’s P*** Wagon).
Shop Now: https://www.hoppyheat.com/
HOUSTON DAIRYMAIDS
Perfect For: Foodies, Cheese-lovers, Party Nosh
Looking for a killer cheese tray for your Christmas party of any size? Houston Dairymaids can hook you up with an arrangement of killer cheese and charcuterie. They scour America for the best cheeses they can find, but really love to put the spotlight on Texas cheesemakers. Beerknurds can place an order for in-store pickup or delivery through Postmates or DoorDash. Grab a Gift Box bursting with dairy delights or pick up a variety of fresh cheese and charcuterie from their cheese shop in the Houston Heights. Don’t know cheese? No problemo, our queso-impaired friend. The Houston Dairymaid cheesemongers will happily help you out. Or you can bestow the gift that keeps on giving with a Cheese of the Month Club Membership!
Shop Now: https://www.houstondairymaids.com/
Perfect For: Musicknurds, Vinyl Junkies
Nothing goes better with craft beer than music. And as supporters of indie craft breweries, we also throw our support behind indie record stores. Almost every community has one and for the last few years we’ve had a blast partnering with them for Record Store Day. If you’re in need of something truly unique, explore your local indie record Store. Does someone you know love music and all that comes along with it? They got it! New, used, rare, classic, fresh, popular, nichey. Vinyl, CDs, cassettes, posters, shirts, toys, movies, etc. Dive in and find that something really special for that special (or not-so-special someone).
A few of our favorites:
Arkansas Record-CD Exchange (Little Rock, AR)
Bat Cave Vinyl (San Antonio, TX)
Cactus Music (Houston, TX)
MEDDLESOME MOTH
Our more sophisticated sister, Meddlesome Moth, celebrated 10 years of extraordinary craft beer and food in 2020. Our 25th and their 10th weren’t what we hoped they would be, but we’re grateful to have been able to celebrate. Beerknurds can send a gift card to their friends and family to Dallas’ original gastropub that constantly maintains one of the best beer lists in the world. Act fast and you could score one of Meddlesome Moth’s 12 Beers of Christmas boxes with 12 hand-picked and hand-wrapped beers. It really is the perfect gift for the beer snob in your family…or for a day when you have nothing better to do.
Shop now: https://mothinthe.net/
RODEO GOAT
Rodeo Goat is easily the best burger in Texas (probably the U.S.). Our family at the goat prides itself on perfectly cooked burgers made with fresh, hand-ground 44 Farms Beef and awesome craft beer. A gift card stuffed into a stocking will let someone stuff their face and love it.
Shop now: https://www.rodeogoat.com/ (Purchase gift cards by clicking on an individual location’s link)
FLYING FISH
Inspired by the fish shacks of east Texas, Flying Fish serves up delicious fish dishes. Feast on everything from fried catfish to grilled mahi. Po’boys are killer, whole fried snapper is flakey and tender, and gumbo is gooo-oood! Send a gift card someone’s way and make their Christmas fish come true!
Shop now: https://www.flyingfishinthe.net/giftcards
MIRIAM’S COCINA LATINA
The newest member of the family, Miriam’s Cocina Latina, serves Latin-flavored dishes (Mexican, Dominican, South American, and beyond). The patio faces beautiful Klyde Warren Park in Downtown Dallas and the Dallas Arts District. And despite the comida dripping with sabor, the best thing about Miriam’s is a hug (air hug) from Miriam – the woman in charge and namesake. Her larger-than-life personality and passion for hospitality guarantees a great dining experience. Put some #MiriamHugs in someone’s stocking.
Shop now: https://www.miriamcocina.com/product/e-gift-card/
Of course, don’t forget Flying Saucer Gift Cards, Shirts, and Merch. See what’s available at your local Saucer or SHOP ONLINE.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, Beerknurds! Thank you for your support since 1995 and throughout 2020.
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]]>High fives, laughs, and clinking glasses were the soundtrack. The building was packed with thirsty beer fans ready to shake Ken’s hand and get a photo with the craft beer pioneer.
Flying Saucer Beerknurds raised the money by choosing to drink Sierra Nevada beers (at least $1 of every Sierra draft was directly donated), buying raffle tickets for contests hosted by their local Flying Saucer, or generous cash donations. Houston Flying Saucer Beerknurds raised the most of any of the Saucers. Jenal Willhelm, a member of the Flying Saucer family for 12 years, was the top individual go-getter.
Additionally, brewers and reps from 15 Houston craft beer breweries were in the house for the event. These breweries all graciously brewed Resilience IPA, the beer created specifically as a way to raise money for Camp Fire Relief. Saint Arnold presented their own check to Ken and Sierra Nevada’s Camp Fire Relief Fund.
Combined, these Houston-area craft beer breweries raised tens of thousands of dollars that were all donated. The breweries included:
It was such a cool sight to watch the godfather of craft beer drinking his and others’ beers with Houston beer fans and awesome local Houston breweries. Imagine Ken Grossman and other brewing bad asses like Saint Arnold Brewing’s Brock Wagner just hanging out shooting the shit. How cool is that?! Grossman even presented Hanrahan with a magnum of Sierra Nevada Pale Ale – the beer that opened Asa’s craft beer eyes. We heard that Hanrahan experienced his own Josh Justice pants–related moment when it happened – minus the whole Google maps part.
It was such an incredible night. It wouldn’t have been possible without you Beerknurds. Thank you for always rallying and answering the call to help out our fellow humans – beer lover or not.
Peace, love, beer, Saucer.
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