Beer In Front

Dave Zalatoris

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I'm Dave, a regular Chicago Beer Guy with a podcast about some old school beers and new classics. Sometimes the Beer In Front of you is the best one yet! https://www.patreon.com/beerinfront https://linktr.ee/BeerInFront Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support.

1 DAY AGO

303 Craft Beer Week

This week on the Beer In Front podcast, Dave celebrates both Illinois Craft Beer Week and American Craft Beer Week with a packed episode full of beer news, local brewery updates, playoff beer gimmicks, a killer lager from Goldfinger Brewing Company, and finally… a long-awaited review of the legendary Zima. Plus, a quick detour into punk rock with thoughts on the new album from Social Distortion. In This EpisodeCelebrating Illinois Craft Beer Week and American Craft Beer WeekIllinois Craft Beer Week passport program and brewery promotionsThoughts on the new Social Distortion album Born to KillBrewers Association concerns over tariff refunds and aluminum pricingBall Corporation’s can supply reportedly committed through 2030Illinois brewery updates from Hop Butcher For The World and Maplewood Brewery & DistilleryMichigan brewing collaboration between Brewery Vivant and Saugatuck Brewing CompanyNew West Coast pilsner “Boat Plane” from Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.Beer bats, hockey beer skates, and playoff drinking vessels taking over sportsAB InBev posts first quarterly beer sales increase in three yearsNew NA collaboration “Baller Melon” from Go Brewing and Hop ButcherTHC beverages arriving at select Target Corporation storesSummer release preview from Goat Patch Brewing CompanyBig-format Chelada releases from ModeloBeer Review: Goldfinger – Danube Swabian Dave cracks open Danube Swabian, an historical Vienna-style lager from Goldfinger Brewing. Rich toasted malt character, balanced hop spice, and classic lager drinkability make this one an instant winner. If you see the red can, Dave says one thing: “Put it in the cart.” Retro Review: Zima Returns After years of searching, Dave finally gets his hands on Japanese-market Zima thanks to a hookup from a coworker and friends at Japan Airlines. Does the iconic lemon-lime malt beverage still hold up after all these years? Spoiler alert: absolutely. Expect nostalgia, carbonation, and zero tolerance for people putting Jolly Ranchers in it. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

15 min
5 DAYS AGO · BONUS

How 2020 Changed Beer

If you didn't catch the livestream last week, here is the audio part of the Midwest Beer Show. I along with Rod J talked about how beer has changed since 2020. We spoke to people from The Brewers Association, Hop Butcher, and WildEdge Brewing Collective! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

2h 22m
4 MAY

301 Tate Huffard From Best Day Brewing

🍺 Episode Summary Dave is back for Episode 301 with a conversation that might just change how you think about non-alcoholic beer. This week’s guest is Tate Huffard, founder of Best Day Brewing—a company proving that NA beer doesn’t have to feel like a compromise. From the evolution of drinking habits to the explosion of the NA category, Tate breaks down how Best Day is creating beers that stand on their own—full flavor, real craft, just without the alcohol. Plus, Dave puts a few Best Day beers to the test with honest, no-BS reviews. 🔥 In This EpisodeThe origin story behind Best Day BrewingWhy non-alcoholic beer used to fail—and what’s changedThe biggest technical challenge in making great NA beerHow lifestyle (not sobriety) is driving the categoryWhy NA beer is showing up everywhere—from Target to taproomsThe future of NA beer (draft lines, new styles, and more)🍻 Beer Reviews (Dave’s Take) Wild American (Pilsner-style)Clean, crisp, classic beer flavorBalanced malt + subtle hopsNo weird NA aftertaste“Lunch beer approved.”KolschLight, refreshing, highly drinkableSlight citrus note on the finish“Exactly what you want this style to be.”Electro-Lime (with sea salt)Bright lime upfront, super refreshingPerfect warm-weather crusher“Summer beer. No doubt.”👉 Bottom line: “It’s not NA beer—it’s just beer.” Go to https://bestdaybrewing.com/ Use the code INFRONT for 20% off your first order! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

45 min
28 APR

300 Episodes

🎉 300 Episodes In Dave looks back on six years behind the mic and the evolution of the showEarly beer memories: Vienna lagers, Samuel Adams Boston Lager, and Dovetail BrewingFrom COVID-era rants to today’s more balanced formatListener feedback welcome as the show continues to evolve🍔 Chicago Beer & Food Stop Visit to Hop Butcher for a charity collab eventSmashburgers from “Biker Dude” supporting Meals on WheelsVerdict: absolutely worth the trip—“that flipping good”📰 Beer & Beverage News 🔥 Big Industry Move Firestone Walker acquires Stone BrewingProduction shifting to California; major restructuring of facilitiesPart of a busy acquisition streak for Firestone Walker🏆 World Beer Cup Highlights Illinois breweries bringing home medals:Go Brewing (NA category wins)Adams Street BreweryGoose Island (including Bourbon County Brand Stout)Cruz Blanca, Phase Three, Industry Ales🍺 Beer Reviews – Craft Macro Series Dave kicks off a new segment reviewing “craft macros”—easy-drinking beers from craft breweries. Pipeworks – “Beer” Style: Light lager (4.4%)Score: 31/50Notes: Classic macro vibe, clean but middle-of-the-roadVerdict: Solid, drinkable, not a standoutRevolution Brewing – Cold Time Lager Style: Premium lager (4.8%)Score: 35/50Notes: Balanced, flavorful, crushableVerdict: “Put it in the cart” — strong everyday option Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

17 min
21 APR

299 Revolution Changes The Game

🍺 Episode Overview Episode 299 is a quick solo run with Dave—no guests this week, but plenty of beer news, industry insight, and a deep dive into one of the most interesting trends in craft beer right now: non-alcoholic versions of flagship beers. From brewery closures to new collaborations and a standout NA release from Revolution Brewing, this episode covers the current state of the beer world, plus a few “put it in the cart” recommendations. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

23 min
13 APR

298 A Barrel Aged April

🎙️ Beer In Front Podcast – Episode Show Notes Barrel-Aged Season… in April? Spring in Chicago… and somehow we’re talking barrel-aged monsters like it’s late November. This episode dives into a surprise wave of fresh barrel-aged releases from three legendary Chicago breweries, plus a deep, behind-the-scenes conversation with one of the best in the game. Dave sits down with Marty Scott (Barrel Program Manager at Revolution Brewing) for an in-depth look at blending, wood, and the philosophy behind one of the country’s most respected barrel programs — including a sneak peek tank pour of a brand-new Deep Wood release. Also: industry news, new (and questionable?) beer releases, and a bittersweet beer rumor that hits close to home. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

55 min
6 APR

297 The Reviews Are In

Week of April 6, 2026 A packed episode this week with a heavy focus on what really matters: the beer in front of you. 🍺 Expect a streamlined format loaded with reviews, plus some news, events, and a few things you might want to… put in the cart. 🍻 What’s On Deck A stacked lineup of beer reviews featuring:Dragon’s Milk (New Holland)Midwest Coast BrewingNew BelgiumSound GrowlerSierra NevadaBeer news from around the worldChicago-area event spotlightMidwest Beer Show preview Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

18 min
30 MAR

296 Ska Brewing

🍺 Beer In Front – Episode 296 Guest: Ska Brewing co-founder Dave Thibodeau 🎙️ Episode Summary Dave Zalatoris is joined by craft beer OG Dave Thibodeau of Ska Brewing for a conversation that hits the sweet spot between beer, music, and staying true to your roots. From the early “punk rock” days of microbrewing to today’s ultra-competitive craft landscape, this episode dives into how Ska Brewing has stayed relevant for over 30 years. Plus: beer news, industry trends, and a review of Ska’s brand new West Coast IPA. 🍻 In This Episode 🎤 Interview: Dave Thibodeau (Ska Brewing) The origins of Ska Brewing and its deep roots in punk, ska, and DIY cultureWhat early craft beer was really like (hint: not always good… and nobody noticed)How today’s drinker has changed—and why you can’t get away with mediocre beer anymoreThe evolution of IPAs—from no IPA at all to flagship statusBrewing innovation: cryo hops, biotransformation, and modern West Coast IPA techniquesThe wild story of opening (and closing) a location in 71 minutes due to COVIDWhy “beyond beer” (seltzers, RTDs) still feels off-brand for many legacy brewersCraft beer shakeout: who survives and whySka’s experimental “Mod Project” beers—including the unforgettable Pink Vapor StewThe importance of community and Durango’s role in Ska’s identity🍺 Beer Review Ska Brewing – New West Coast IPA Aroma: Mango, guava, bright tropical notesAppearance: Clear, classic West Coast look with solid foamFlavor: Balanced hop profile with noticeable bitterness (in a good way)Takeaway: A modern West Coast IPA that respects tradition while using new-school techniquesVerdict: 👉 “Put it in the cart.” Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

38 min

TRAILER

Trailer

Sometimes the beer in front of you is the best one yet. I'll talk about some old school beers that maybe you've forgotten about. Some new beers that have the potential to be a classic. I'll also talk to various people around the beer world and get their stories all about beer. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support. Beer Media Group

01/09/2023

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1 min

I'm Dave, a regular Chicago Beer Guy with a podcast about some old school beers and new classics. Sometimes the Beer In Front of you is the best one yet! https://www.patreon.com/beerinfront https://linktr.ee/BeerInFront Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support.

Creator

Dave Zalatoris
Years Active

2020 - 2026
Episodes

272
Rating

Explicit
Copyright

© Beer Media Group
Show Website

Beer In Front