167: Adam Robbings of Reubens Brews Reflects on the Brewing and Business Impacts of 2020

Published: Jan. 1, 2021, 1 a.m.

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Reuben\\u2019s Brews\\u2019 Adam Robbings has always been a thoughtful and mission-driven brewer, who focuses as much on building a business that delivers on the promise of \\u201ccraft\\u201d as he does on compelling beers that fit within the craft category. That approach to brewing has been a successful one, with GABF and FOBAB medals and a Craft Beer & Brewing Beer of the Year earned all in the space of the past year.

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In this episode, Robbings dives into the theory and practice around popular Reuben\\u2019s beers like Three Ryes Men barrel-aged rye barleywine and Triple Crush hazy triple IPA. Along the way, he touches on:

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  • The growth and importance of \\u201cvariants\\u201d
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  • This year\\u2019s developed \\u201cNo man\\u2019s land\\u201d in ABV
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  • The growth of interest in west coast IPA
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  • Reuben\\u2019s approach to their award-winning Three Ryes Men barleywine
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  • How barrel age impacts finished beer
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  • Choosing competition categories for barrel-aged beers based on flavor gestalt rather than production methods
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  • Building specialty beers with a consumer focus for drinking occasions
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  • The resurgence of pumpkin beer
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  • Scaling recipes to different sized brewhouses
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  • Bench testing new hops crops to gauge changes year over year
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\\u201cThere\\u2019s a whole lot of game theory behind competitions,\\u201d says Robbings. \\u201cIt\\u2019s not just \\u2018the best beer wins.\\u201d

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*This episode is brought to you by: *

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BSG (https://bsgcraftbrewing.com/) This episode is brought to you by Rahr North Star Pils. A new base malt to set your compass by. Rahr North Star Pils is crafted for brewers looking for a domestic pilsner malt with low color and low modification. North Star Pils carries overtones of honey and sweet bread, supported by flavors and aromas of hay and nutty character. Suitable for any beer style, but particularly craft brewed versions of classic lagers. Let Rahr North Star Pils guide your craft by visiting BSGCraftbrewing.com, or contact BSG at 1.800.374.2739.

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ABS Commercial (https://www.abs-commercial.com): ABS Commercial is excited to be a part of today\\u2019s Podcast! ABS is a full brewery outfitter offering brewhouses, tanks, keg washers and small parts. ABS wanted to do something fun for the craft beer industry, and gave away an ABS Keg Viking Keg Washer LIVE this past December 7th. Congratulations to Lazy Horse Brewing & Winery in Nebraska who are the new proud owners of a Keg Viking! To make sure you\\u2019re on the list for future giveaways, go to www.abs-commercial.com, click on \\u201cKeg Viking\\u201d page and fill out the contact form to stay in the know!

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