HH Soda Co is associated with Back Pew Brewing Company, a craft brewery in Porter, Texas, that offers non-alcoholic THC-infused sodas, including their own ‘H.H. Soda Co. Root Beer’, alongside their amazing beers, creating a unique spot in their church-themed taproom, “The Sanctuary”. They blend traditional brewery vibes with fun offerings like Harry Potter trivia and welcome families and pets every weekend.

Fair disclosure, I did have it on tap and in crowlers before it was available in four-packs and kept asking when it would finally be in cans! Before I dive too far in, I should let you know that each 12-ounce can (or pour) is dosed at 5 mg, so don’t make the mistake I made and drink two pints on an empty stomach! That was a fun story I can share with you if you ask me when you see me around.

I was asked by several people to cover a THC product as I’m a huge “canna-nerd” as I call it, and I geek out on talking about legally available cannabis products. I won’t dive too deep into the benefits of THC as we don’t have enough time in this article, but I will tell you how much I love these sodas.

I chose the Cherry Cream Spice flavor to write the article on (I’ll touch on the other available flavor later). Out of habit, I went straight in for a smell, and it smells just like a certain soda that had to obtain its doctorate degree to be so tasty. There is definitely some vanilla and cherry that stands out that translates into the taste as well.

Immediately upon the first sip, I would swear I was drinking a normal soda. The carbonation was perfect, which brought out the spice at the end that refreshed my palate and made me want to dive back in mouth first. If I wasn’t aware it had THC in it, I would have thought it was a soda straight out of the corner store fridge!

You may be thinking, “Well, duh, that’s the point, right?!” but let me explain. As someone who has had a ton of THC beverages, you can often tell it is a THC product with either a medicinal taste or an astringent aftertaste. This had no signs whatsoever, and for someone who is very particular about my THC beverage tastes, this is the easiest drinking one I’ve found.

After about 10 minutes of finishing my first, I start to feel the effects of the soda; I relax and I can’t help but smile. At only 5 mg per pour, it’s not going to overwhelm anyone, allowing for you to enjoy multiple and dose at your own level, as everyone is different.

I could see myself enjoying these while doing my favorite thing: putting on some music and just getting lost in the moment.

I teased a second flavor earlier. The second flavor is Rootbeer, and I can tell you as someone who is not particularly fond of rootbeer, this one is amazing. It tastes just like a rootbeer with none of the aftertastes that other THC brands overlook. I could see myself enjoying these at dinner or with a scoop of ice cream for dessert (on my cheat meal days, of course).

This is definitely a product I see being able to reach across so many different types of needs. For example, I actually use THC to help me with my weight loss and recovery from working out, as well as general pain. Not to mention the mental benefits THC provides and the stress relief you will feel, especially with the holidays upon us! If you’re planning on doing Dry January, this is a great solution to help make it so much easier to keep yourself on track with your goals.

The post A New Kind of Buzz: From Hops to Hemp with H.H. Soda Co. first appeared on Houston Beer Guide.

The post A New Kind of Buzz: From Hops to Hemp with H.H. Soda Co. appeared first on Houston Beer Guide.

Don’t know about the Canto series? It’s a highly-anticipated bourbon barrel-aged series Back Pew has been doing for years. What does the fifth installment entail, you may ask?

Canto V is a Bourbon Barrel-Aged Oatmeal Stout that uses Wolf’s Dream, a Double Imperial Oatmeal Stout, as the base beer. It was aged in Weller barrels! The last time Wolf’s Dream was on tap, it went fast, so you know aging it in bourbon barrels is only going to make it even better. If you have ever read any of my articles, you know how much I geek out on BBA stouts (I have one of the largest collections of them!), so allow me to tell you about this one that really caught my attention.

One thing I love about BBA stouts is the nose and the balance of barrel and beer that is impossible to replicate outside of my favorite style. The nose on Canto V is sweet, like dark chocolate, with a balanced bourbon barrel presence that gives hints of vanilla, cherry, and a touch of spice. This could honestly be a candle, and I would just dive into the scent over and over again. There is just something about the way the chocolate and the spice of the barrel combine to make the aroma a genuine treat.

I know I can’t keep sniffing the beer forever, so let me tell you about the way Back Pew balanced this beer beautifully.

I initially get a roasty ancho-style chili note with some dark chocolate up front that made me light up with a smile. There is a mild, nutty flavor in there (think hazelnut) if you really allow the beer to sit on your tongue and linger, as you should when enjoying a well-made stout. The finish is well-balanced and doesn’t overpower the palate but brings the barrel out, which is where the notes of cherry and spice come from. You can practically taste the barrel char in the back end of the sip—if you’re a bourbon fan, you’ll know how important this is.

The mouthfeel is rich, creamy, and smooth while finishing with a mild bourbon bite that keeps the burn and sweetness in check so you can continue to enjoy the pour. As for the color, it has a beautiful brownish-tan head and a beer so dark no light passes through the glass, allowing the logo on the glass to pop.

Overall, I could see myself enjoying a couple of bottles on a chill night with time to savor. The beer only gets better as it comes up to room temperature. If you’re patient enough to allow it to warm up, you really can see how perfectly balanced Canto V is and truly get the spice notes with the barrel char characters.

Let’s be honest, as I’ve said before, stout season is the best and something beer enthusiasts look forward to every year. Want to get your hands on it?

Canto V is available in the taproom in bottles to go as well as on draft until they run out. So, don’t hesitate to make it out, because I may just drink it all if you don’t hurry!

Can’t make it to Porter? Don’t worry, H-E-B and Specs will have them in stores while supplies last. Every Canto release is always quick to sell out, so you may not want to wait around.

With the coldest months on the way, bourbon barrel-aged stouts are the best way to stay warm. I can’t wait to enjoy this beer around a fire pit and good company. Come raise a glass with me at Back Pew and tell me what you think or what notes you get from this great beer!

The post Stout season is back! Back Pew Releases Canto V first appeared on Houston Beer Guide.

The post Stout season is back! Back Pew Releases Canto V appeared first on Houston Beer Guide.

Big Owl is turning four, and they’re celebrating in a big way on September 6th from noon until 11 p.m.! It’s hard to believe it’s been four years since their grand opening. In that time, they’ve become a true community hub—a place where you can make new friends, discover amazing new beers, and share tons of laughs.

Since opening its doors, Big Owl has become a beloved fixture in the Houston craft beer scene. They offer a unique mix of traditional craft brews and special beers with Latin-inspired flavors. You’ll find a rotating selection of local and regional beers on tap, Mexican bottled beers for the non-craft crowd, and a wide variety of to-go options. Plus, any drink can be upgraded to a michelada.

What’s Planned for the Celebration?

The party is split into two parts so everyone can join in the fun.

• 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. (Family-Friendly Fun): Bring the whole family for face painting, Sweet Treats by Lily, and tasty paletas (popsicles) to keep the kids happy while you relax.
• 5 p.m. – 11 p.m. (Grown-Up Time): The evening kicks off with a DJ and door prizes given away every hour from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Confirmed sponsors include Galveston Island Brewing, Misfit Outpost, Great Heights, Louie Louie, Frost Town, Equal Parts, and Space City Snax, with more to be announced!

Of course, the celebration wouldn’t be complete without beers from their in-house brewery, Turkey Forrest Brewing, which will have several options on tap.

Don’t drink alcohol? No problem! Alcohol-free and THC options will also be available.

See You There!

I can’t wait to celebrate with good friends and the incredible community of beer lovers that Big Owl has built. Big Owl always goes all out for its events, and this will be no exception. As an early bird rather than a night owl (see what I did there?), I’ll be sure to get there early to support the friends I’ve made over the years. I’ll never forget when Al from Big Owl caught me secretly writing a review for Turkey Forrest Brewing, after I snuck in an article on Big Owl without them knowing who I was. Now, whenever they see me with my beer notebook, they know exactly what’s coming!

Which part of the celebration are you most looking forward to?

The post Celebrating Four Years of Big Owl! first appeared on Houston Beer Guide.

The post Celebrating Four Years of Big Owl! appeared first on Houston Beer Guide.

Few weeks ago when I saw that Backpew was releasing a Kolsch, I knew I had to rush to the taproom to check it out. A Kolsch is such an easy-drinking beer that I was certain I was in for a pleasant treat. This style is often overlooked in breweries, yet it’s so perfect for the Houston heat. I always make an effort to find new ones to try.

This Kolsch was everything you could ask for in a true-to-style brew. While the nose was mild, the taste packed a punch. It poured a beautiful golden hay color with a pillowy white head that perfectly laced the glass as I sipped. I noticed a hint of lemon up front, followed by a mild yet balanced hop bite reminiscent of an orange. This mouthwatering and refreshing blend of lemon and orange allowed me to savor each sip before going back for another. Backpew’s Kolsch was smooth and crisp, with a sweet finish that perfectly balanced the mild hop bite. If you’re a fan of being able to crush multiple easy-drinking beers, this was definitely the one to try.

While this beer may no longer be on tap (Bobby, please brew more!), you can still go check out Back Pew’s other solid lineup of crushable beers.

Oh, and that 5K I teased? It’s taking place on November 15th, and you can find all the details here:

LINK TO SIGN UP: https://runintexas.redpodium.com/back-pew-brewing-co-5k-beer-run-2025

Join me in running a 5K (3.1 miles) and having some beers afterward! Maybe by then, I’ll be close to losing 175 pounds, and we can make this fun event a huge celebration! Who’s with me?

Back Pew Brewing Co 5K Beer Run

The 5K starts and finishes at Back Pew Brewery, running on shady and beautiful neighborhood streets. Upon finishing, runners will receive four 8oz craft beers, a custom finisher pint glass, and a nice tech shirt with the event logo. Food will be on-site, but it is not included in the entry fee. Strollers are welcome!

Event Details:

• Location: 26452 Sorters McClellan Rd, Porter, TX 77365
• Date & Time: Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 8:00 AM

Packet Pick-up:

• Friday Race Week: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM at Back Pew Brewing Co.
• Saturday Race Day: 6:30 AM – 7:45 AM at Back Pew Brewing Co.

Pricing:

• 5K Entry:
  • $60 through October 15
  • $65 through November 1
  • $70 after that
  • $75 on race day
• Minor / Non-Alcohol Entry:
  • $45 through October 15
  • $50 through November 1
  • $55 after that
  • $60 on race day
• Discounts: Military, Police, and Fire receive a $5 discount. Email info@runintexas.com for the code, and have your ID handy at packet pick-up. Thanks for your service!

The post Ready to Run for a Beer? Join Me at the Backpew 5K! first appeared on Houston Beer Guide.

The post Ready to Run for a Beer? Join Me at the Backpew 5K! appeared first on Houston Beer Guide.

Downtown Dusty boasts a color true to the amber style, pouring a gorgeous amber or golden-red hue with a creamy white head. The aroma is subtly malty and bready, enticing you to take a deep breath and savor the moment. With the first sip, the maltiness smoothly envelops your palate, urging you to take larger sips than usual. Following the initial malty notes, you’ll notice a delightful interplay of bready and caramel flavors, complementing each other beautifully. On the finish, a faint floral note emerges, accompanied by a mild hop presence that refreshes your palate just enough.

Now, after geeking out over Downtown Dusty’s flavors, let me tell you why I believe it’s the perfect beer for spring and summer—especially in Houston, where they’re practically one and the same. At 5%, Downtown Dusty is crushable, allowing you to enjoy multiple without feeling weighed down, making it ideal for tackling those tasks you’ve been procrastinating, like yard work. Its crispness leaves your mouth dry enough to crave another sip.

And the convenience doesn’t stop there—Downtown Dusty is available in cans to-go and can be found at local grocery stores, making it accessible wherever you are. Plus, the can’s artwork by Kevin Dyer captures downtown Katy and its historic silos and rail line, adding a touch of local history to your beer experience. Be sure to swing by the taproom or check your local grocery store shelves for Downtown Dusty, and if you need assistance locating it, feel free to shoot me a message on IG.

Cheers!

The post Headed out West to meet Downtown Dusty first appeared on Houston Beer Guide.

The post Headed out West to meet Downtown Dusty appeared first on Houston Beer Guide.

If you’ve read any of my articles or ever had a conversation with me about beer you’ll know that I’m all about that stout life. When I heard Excalibur Brewing in Old Town Spring announced the 2nd annual Stout Fest 2024, you know I had to get the inside scoop. Stout Fest 2024 will be held at Excalibur Brewing on Saturday January 27th, where 11 breweries including Excalibur will be showcasing their finest stouts. This ticketed event will let you taste beer from several breweries in one location. With your general admission entry, you will receive a 4 oz taster glass and 8 taster tickets starting at noon for only $45. VIP ticket admission allows you to enter a hour early to enjoy unlimited samplings of the stouts and an additional taster tickets and access to refreshments – all for $80. You can buy additional tickets at the bar if you want a bit extra to enjoy. If you do not purchase a ticket, you will not be able to enter the brewery or order beer until 6PM as it will be closed exclusively for Stout Fest ticket holders only. Treat this like a private stout party with all our closest darkest friends. I am looking forward to this year’s Arthur’s Tomb variant. Peanut butter variant was a big hit before, and Red Velvet is currently on tap – I wonder what it will be this year?

The breweries in attendance for this year’s Stout Fest are Equal Parts, DECA, Location Six, Brew: 30, Misfit Outpost, Frankenboltzzz, Brash, Devil and the Deep, Megaton, and Turkey Forrest Brewing. The way Stout Fest works is each brewery will offer two different stouts for you to sample, so that’s over 20 samples of stouts available to you! With this stacked line up of breweries, there is no wrong decision on which you pick!

I was able to enjoy the collaboration beer designed between Excalibur and Frankenboltzzz while I visited. This golden stout aged with tres leches cake had a well balanced sweetness with soft coffee tones – very tasty! Each brewery will also have merchandise on site so you can show your support for them by purchasing shirts, stickers and hats. 

Purchase your tickets for Stout Fest at: https://excaliburbrewing.com/stout-fest-2024-ticket-sales/ 

With only two weeks until the event, you better hurry because the tickets are flying fast. There is plenty of seating available however if you would like to bring your lawn chairs to create your own camp, you’re more than welcome to. Parking is not a challenge either – there is a lot that is available on the corner of Border and Prairie, but since there are plenty of stouts to go around, we recommend ride sharing. Designated driver tickets are also available for $20 for individuals who want to attend but will not be drinking. Please have fun but be responsible.

No beer festival is complete without live music.

To keep you entertained Excalibur Brewing will host Mississippi Smile, Tab Cocchia, and Background Noise HTX.

Galexy Concessions just opened up next door to Excalibur so you can walk over and get a bite to eat or enjoy additional food vendors on site. Rustic Barrel will be on site selling BBQ, and Maine Lobster will be serving up their famous lobster dishes.

I am looking forward to celebrating local made stouts at this event. Bring a friend or make a date out of it. Other Houston Beer contributors will be available during the event to chat about all the way you can help support local craft beer too. See you there!

The post Stout Fest 2024 at Excalibur Brewing in Old Town Spring first appeared on Houston Beer Guide.

The post Stout Fest 2024 at Excalibur Brewing in Old Town Spring appeared first on Houston Beer Guide.

How do you say goodbye to a brewery you’ve been visiting since the beginning, made countless memories from, built great friendships and was the place you started your craft beer adventures at? I would like to start by first saying, this sucks. Really sucks!

January 6th will be Ingenious’s official last day open. As someone who supported them through every twist and turn the industry saw, it hit me hard to hear this news. I spent so much time & money at this brewery and stood up for them in many ways. Like many other die hard Ingenious fans, I often went out of my way to share beers I was drinking on social media to spread the love and never left the taproom without buying beer to go. I loved walking in and everyone immediately starts shouting and cheering, truly excited that I was there. This was the one place I could count on feeling right at home. Ingenious even participated in this past year’s Houston Beer Block Party and was quite popular on the block, kicking 3 kegs that day! Much love to them for keeping stouts on year round too. It’s safe to say that Ingenious has etched a special place in my heart that I will never forget.

Normally I’m known for being the serious and strictly beer focused writer with my articles but I want to use this time to acknowledge all the employees I’ve gotten to know over the years and the memories they’ve help create. This team was the pillar of Ingenious Brewing Co. From bullying Graham during trivia with team names themed around him, to laughing with Casey aka DJ C-Note every time I visited. I enjoyed having in depth conversations with him about the Oilwell vending machine in the lobby. Talking metal and music with Krista, she always knew what beers I was walking in for, and Jason being there a short time but being someone who got my humor. There was never a dull moment with him and I loved sampling michelada prototypes he was working on. Derek and I would geek out on beer and he would motivate me to add adjuncts to my home brew to get the desired “Ingenious” effect. Alex and I have had a few moments of me sharing beers from all over and I will certainly miss these conversations. Lee and the funny beers named after him during his birthday celebration, and the night he needed help kicking a keg of a barrel aged stout along with the headache that followed the next morning.  James and I would talk sports and sample beers from the brite tank. James took great pride in all of his beers and loved helping with social media even going emo for a night that will forever live in infamy. Such good times to remember.

So I ask you, please raise a glass to the hardworking team that has ever been a part of Ingenious power house. I wish each and every one of them the best of luck on their future path forward.

It’s not too late to support. Join me in these final days and let’s help them clear out some inventory by buying merchandise, glassware, beer, and stickers to forever have a piece of Humble history. Before you leave, get your hands on the Brewers Reserve. This year’s was aged in still Austin barrels for two years giving that barrel aged finished we all know and love. It’s smooth chocolate note along with a beautiful roast to balance out the bourbon barrel is very delicious. This beer represents James’ focus on his amazing stouts as they only use the barrel and his base recipe. Feeling sour? We know you are. Go get the last batch of Elf’s Blood, a Christmas tradition that comes out every December. Ingenious wasn’t just known for their crazy adjunct focused beers, but was really keeping things fresh with lager and crispy as of late. Go get Layover in Vienna or Das Crisp to quench that thirst. Want a hazy IPA? On Comet and C1000 will definitely not let you down. Channel your inner beer nerd and drink the black IPA aptly named Come and drink it.

I am really going to miss this place. Very sad to see it go.

In case you haven’t noticed, Houston Beer needs your love. With breweries dropping out left and right, the beer fans in this area need to rally together to save these local businesses before it’s too late. Please support your local breweries if you can. Your support and contribution is appreciated more that you know.

Ingenious Brewing Company is located at 1986 S Houston Ave, Humble, TX 77396.

The post Ingenious Brewing Company announces closure first appeared on Houston Beer Guide.

The post Ingenious Brewing Company announces closure appeared first on Houston Beer Guide.

This Saturday October 7th, Back Pew Brewing will be hosting their annual OktoBEERfest at their brewery – also known as the Sanctuary. Located in Porter TX on several acres of land, Back Pew has a spacious outdoor space with plenty of shade to stay cool in while enjoying some great beers. Don’t worry about parking either – the ample onsite parking space and event parking attendant will get you in and out with ease. To top it off, Back Pew is always pet and family friendly and will be pulling out all the stops to make an enjoyable experience for all that attend. 

Like any true Oktoberfest event, there are plenty of activities to accompany good ole beer drinking. This year’s fun includes a stein holding contest, stein racing, keg toss, and more games that I don’t want to spoil that are sure to give you a laugh. The popular Homebrewed Brass Ensemble will be on the main outdoor stage with all the polka and beer drinking songs you can handle. If you’ve never had the fortune of experiencing them do yourself a favor and get a good spot-on site to hear them play. You can also bring your lawn chairs and create your own area for a bit more space to yourself. One of my favorite parts of OktoBEERfest is pairing the vast combo of lagers with delicious bites from local food truck, The Sauerkraut. Their amazing lineup of German food including beer brats and my personal favorite, the Schruben, can’t be beat. Don’t skip out on the pretzels that pair excellently with light drinker Kingsbrau on tap. The Webster Melting Company will be providing a variety of sandwiches during the event while Rosalia Urbano will be serving up delicious offerings including tacos and quesadillas. Still not enough? Gastrocraft is also joining in the fun with a full German inspired menu PLUS a limited amount of Corned Beef Reubens.

Our favorite feature, of course – BEER! While a few of my personal favorites are making a return, I know that I’ll be starting with Mast to Marzen 6.2% abv. This beer is a more traditional style for Oktoberfest, that holds nutty/darker flavors, while still meaning for all day drinking. Huzzah to that!

While you are there, be sure to try the newest beer Damned Dunkle – which will also be available in six packs to go. This limited run of packaged cans will go quick so snag your beer to go upon arrival.

Check out the full list of beer available for this event below.

Year-round Offerings:
Blue Testament
Hyper Light
Satyrs Swill
Lucy Wheat
Tanuki IPA
Apple Ale

Seasonal Brews:
King of the Helles
Kingsbrau
Me Beer
Black Habit

Oktoberfest Specific Beers:
Erica (German Pils)
ExALTation (Altbier)
Double Stanges (Kolsch)
Mast to Marzen (Marzen)
Back Pew Vator (Doppelbock)
Berliner Weisse
Damned Dunkel (Dunkel)
Zwickelbier (A lager brewed in collaboration with Nobi Public House in Webster)
Vienna Lager
Son of Satyr (Low ABV variant of Satyr’s Swill)

The event kicks off at noon – we hope to see you there! This might be your last chance to celebrate Oktoberfest season so don’t forget to dress for the occasion – lederhosen and dirndls are welcome! It’s time for beer drinking, excellent food with friends and merriment for the whole family.

The post OktoBEERfest This Weekend at Back Pew Brewing first appeared on Houston Beer Guide.

The post OktoBEERfest This Weekend at Back Pew Brewing appeared first on Houston Beer Guide.

Wicked was just unleashed upon us in Houston as the elusive haunted beer mascot from No Label Brewing, Murkey Myers has now broken out of his cage and is on the loose, causing havoc and chaos that we all know and love. Fresh off of winning a Global Crushie for best beer mascot – he has somehow gained more power and is out on the prowl looking for trouble.

October is now the month of Murkey, as Murkey has spread to Vallensons’, Elder Son, Galveston Bay, Project Halo, Megaton, and Senate Avenue – each doing their beer in the style of Murkey Myers. I’m excited to see how Murkey’s tour of chaos turns out and to see everyone’s unique twist on the style. With Murkey’s reach spreading, we must find a way to contain him and lock him back up in the Katy silos. But first, let’s have a little fun with him.

This year, No Label is inviting everyone to embark on a haunted hop quest. Visit all 7 breweries and stamp your Murkey Myers passport for a chance to conjure a special Limited-Edition Month of Murkey tin tacker designed by Anthony Gorrity. Beware: you’ll need to check with each brewery for cryptic clues and info.

Check out the details on the passport here from No Label’s Facebook post: Read More.

Murkey (short for Murkey Myers DIPA) lives true to its name, pours a murky pale gold color and has a very upfront aroma of grapefruit. Pay close attention and you will find a mild citrus and a pine note that lingers on the back end balancing out the nose. Upon the first sip, I immediately notice the grapefruit characteristic from the New Zealand Pacific Sunrise hops. There is also a mild fruit flavor that cuts through the hoppy bitterness that makes this beer very smooth to drink. When I say fruit, think of orange citrus or almost mango-like sweetness that balances out the hop bite and makes it an easy drinker despite the ABV sitting at 7.8%. Even though Murkey seems like a tough guy, his mouthfeel is very soft and smooth. For such a hoppy beer I expected there to be a bit of an overwhelming bite, nonetheless No Label managed to find a beautiful balance with the hop bite and fruit character. The fact that the body isn’t too heavy, and it doesn’t weigh you down or make you bloated making it easy to come back for more, which I struggle to find in a hazy double IPA.

I will be splitting up the visits between days to compare and contrast what differences each brewery will bring to the table with their versions.

Canned Murkey will be releasing on October 13th and can be found at the No Label taproom in Katy, HEB, Total Wine, and in select craft beer bars around town. However, if you visit the brewery beware that Murkey doesn’t catch you off guard and alone, rumor is he already took over GABF and Chicago. Stay safe out there and if you see me at any of these locations, come have a beer with me, and let’s discuss which version was your favorite.

Murkey Beer Release Dates to Know:

**ELDER SON BREWING** – 10/1: ELDER MURKEY

**SENATE AVENUE BREWING** – 10/6: MAYOR MURKEY

**MEGATON BREWERY** – 10/7: RADIOACTIVE MURKEY

**VALLENSON’S BREWING** – 10/12: IMMORTAL MURKEY

**NO LABEL BREWING** – 10/13: MURKEY MYERS

**PROJECT HALO BREWING** – 10/21: MURKEY MEOWERS

**GALVESTON BAY BREWING** – 10/31: WEEKEND AT MURKEY’S

The post Murkey Myers Hazy DIPA Haunts Houston – Passport Challenge from No Label Brewing first appeared on Houston Beer Guide.

The post Murkey Myers Hazy DIPA Haunts Houston – Passport Challenge from No Label Brewing appeared first on Houston Beer Guide.

El Carlito, NL’s award winning German style wheat ale/Weizenbock, has won several knockout awards in the last 3 years including 2021 in the US Open Beer Championship, 2022 Texas Craft Brewers Cup, and most recently – a 2023 New York International Beer Competition. Since then, No Label Brewing has been dominating the regional beer award circuits since the 2021 win. Tom Paynter, Marketing Director of No Label Brewing explains “El Carlito is our first beer in over 8 years to win an international medal, nabbing the US Open medal right after we won two crushies in Summer 2021. Those two things essentially kick-started this era of No Label.” Speaking of awards, No Label cleaned up in the recent Craft Beer Marketing Awards last month.

No Label Brewing Co.’s 2023 Craft Beer Marketing Awards include:

• Global Crushie for Best Can Design on a 32-ounce crowler for “Bottle Cap Crowler”  
• Global Crushie for Best Can Design on an 8 to 15 – ounce can for “Mind Your Own Business Sour IPA” 
• Global Crushie for Best Can Design on an 8 to 15 – ounce can for “Cali Boy West Coast IPA”
• Global Crushie for Best Tap/Tasting Room Experience/Creative Brewery Mural or Installation for “Rail Line Label Wall,” by artist Chris Hernandez
• Gold Crushie for Best Use of Retro Branding for “Old Katy ‘800,’” which honors the heritage of the MKT Rail Line in the historic Rice Silo Yard 
• Global Crushie for Best Brand Identity / Unique Logo Design for “Year 12 Logo” designed by Design Riot
• Global Crushie for Best Brand Identity / Use of Icon or Mascot in Logo or Branding Mascot, for “Murkey Myers DDH DHIPA,” a celebration of Michael Myers 
• Global Crushie for Best Brand Identity / Logo Typography for “Cali Boy Sales Sheet”
• Gold Crushie for Best Brand Identity / Beer Release Calendars
• Global Crushie for Best Merchandise Design / Most Creative Line for ‘Murkey Myers DDH DHIPA” 
• Gold Crushie for Best Ingredient Collaboration for their collaboration with Hound Song Brewing Co.

No Label has always had a special place in my heart. El Hefe, their widely known Hefeweizen was one of my first true loves of my craft beer journey. German style beers especially hefeweizens and any clove dominate beers were always my beer of choice.

When I was told El Carlito was close in taste to El Hefe, I had to get my hands on it. El Carlito is if El Hefe took steroids – and boy, that might an understatement. While enjoying, the first thing I notice is the fragrant aroma of banana and clove that pops out of the glass. Additionally, there is a nice balance of dark fruit esters (think plum or raisins) that lures you in for more. The aroma travels straight to the back of your nose, leaving with a slight fruity after taste. Visually appealing too, El Carlito pours a deep gold with a fluffy slightly off-white head. It provides a refreshing banana and dark fruit upfront that is followed by a mild wheat flavor as the taste lingers in your mouth. The wheat flavor really smooths out the initial sweetness of the fruit and it’s a beautiful example of what balance you want in your German ales. At a bold 8.3% abv, El Carlito drinks much easier than what the ABV suggests, and this could still be a summer crusher for many. Imagine getting all your housework and yard work done on the weekend and popping open a can as a reward – this is definitely THAT beer. One quality I love about El Carlito is its medium body and creamy tongue as it warms the palate but still light enough to enjoy without the feeling of being weighed down. 

In recent news, Houston breweries, especially No Label Brewing, have been really driving home what we’ve known for a while – our beer scene as a whole can compete with most distinguished beer cities out there. With great beers like El Carlito who displays his championship belt proudly on the face of the can, it really feels like a representation of what this beer (and No Label Brewing Co) has to bring to the table. Exciting stuff!

This beer was released just a few weeks ago on Cinco de Mayo and if you are lucky – you might be able to find six packs out in the market at various H-E-Bs and Total Wines. If all else fails, drive out to Katy and enjoy El Carlito on tap in the brewery. With so many fun weekend activities scheduled, No Label always makes the drive out west worth your time. Bringing a non-beer friend? They carry other options to enjoy like cider and sodas. Speaking of things to do, there is a playground to keep your kids entertained while you enjoy a beer. Things get a bit busy during the weekend so check their Facebook page to learn about upcoming events.

Until next time!

No Label Brewing Co. is located at 5351 1st St, Katy, TX 77493.

No Label Brewing Co. | Katy TX | Facebook

The post El Carlito – No Label’s International Champion first appeared on Houston Beer Guide.

The post El Carlito – No Label’s International Champion appeared first on Houston Beer Guide.