Latest Pour: Friday, October 3, 2025
Welcome to this edition of Latest Pour: Interesting Stories in Booze, Brews, and Bubbles You Should Know About, where we dive into the latest stories from the vibrant world of breweries, distilleries, wineries, and more. Pour yourself a glass and join us as we explore these captivating tales from the world of craft liquids!
He Went to Look at Brewery Equipment—He Bought the Brewery Instead
What started as a simple trip to check out some equipment turned into a life-changing decision when a Minnesota man bought the entire brewery on the spot. Now he’s not just a customer of craft beer but an owner, jumping headfirst into the local brewing scene. His story is a reminder of how passion — and maybe a little impulsiveness — can reshape lives and communities. Read more
La Vista Brewing Company Announces Closure
La Vista Brewing Company in Nebraska has announced it will be closing its doors, marking another loss for the region’s craft beer scene. The decision comes after years of operation, leaving loyal patrons saddened but grateful for the memories. The closure highlights the ongoing challenges small breweries face in an increasingly competitive market. Read more
Maui Brewing Faces Community Scrutiny After Layoffs
Maui Brewing Company, a staple of Hawaii’s craft scene, is facing criticism after a wave of layoffs. While the brewery cites restructuring and economic pressures, the move has raised questions about corporate responsibility and the balance between growth and local community support. The controversy adds another layer to the broader challenges facing craft brewers in 2025. Read more
Malley’s, Great Lakes Brewing & Heinen’s Team Up on Chocolate Beer
Cleveland icons are joining forces in a unique collaboration. Malley’s Chocolates, Great Lakes Brewing Company, and Heinen’s grocery stores are partnering to create a chocolate-infused beer just in time for the fall season. This sweet and malty brew combines beloved local brands in a way that celebrates both craft tradition and hometown pride. Read more
16 Breweries to Visit During Albuquerque’s Balloon Fiesta
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is one of the biggest events in New Mexico, and this year craft beer is front and center. Forbes has rounded up 16 must-visit breweries where festival-goers can sip while they watch the skies fill with balloons. From hop-forward IPAs to traditional lagers, the list showcases the diversity of New Mexico’s brewing scene. Read more
Anheuser-Busch Shutters Beloved Goose Island Brewpub
In a move that shocked longtime fans, Anheuser-Busch has closed the iconic Goose Island brewpub in Chicago. Once a hub for Midwest beer lovers, the closure underscores the tension between corporate ownership and community expectations. For many, it’s the end of an era that helped put Chicago on the craft beer map. Read more
Popular NJ Brewery Expands with Second Location
New Jersey’s craft beer scene is growing as one of the state’s popular breweries announces a second location in a neighboring county. This expansion reflects both the brewery’s strong local following and the rising demand for craft beer experiences beyond taprooms. Fans can look forward to more space, more beer, and more community gatherings. Read more
St. Louis Breweries Arch Nemesis & Steampunk Close Down
Two well-loved breweries in St. Louis — Steampunk Brew Works and Arch Nemesis Brewing — are shutting their doors. Their closures are a blow to the city’s vibrant beer community and highlight the difficulties independent brewers face amid shifting consumer trends and rising costs. Locals are already mourning the loss of two unique gathering spaces. Read more
Rumor Mill: New Beer Saves Sea Turtles + Mass Brewers Guild Conference Returns
This week’s craft beer rumor mill is buzzing with good news. A Massachusetts brewery is helping save sea turtles through a special beer release, proving that pints can make a difference. Meanwhile, the Mass Brewers Guild Conference is back, bringing together brewers, innovators, and enthusiasts to share ideas and shape the industry’s future. Read more
Upright Brewing, Portland Staple, to Close at Year’s End
One of Portland’s most respected breweries, Upright Brewing, has announced it will close at the end of the year. Known for its farmhouse-style ales and experimental beers, Upright has been a cornerstone of Portland’s beer identity. Its closure marks the end of an influential chapter in the city’s craft beer history. Read more
Thank you for joining us on this journey through the world of craft liquids. Whether you’re a seasoned craft liquids enthusiast or just starting to explore the diverse flavors and stories behind each release, there’s always something new and exciting to discover. Until next time, cheers to great drinks and the memories we each create with every sip!
