Mashing-In News: Turning 40, Freshies & Friends
GOOD MORNING, SOUTH PUGET SOUND!
Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2025 — Amy Poehler turns 54 today!
From Bavarian beer gardens in Portland to fresh hops in Marysville, milestone anniversaries for Bell’s and the BJCP, new leadership in barley, awards season at Brewbound, and even a spicy Thai somtum ale—today’s craft beer news is a global mix of tradition, innovation, and celebration.
Weihenstephaner Brings Bavarian Flavor to Portland Oktoberfest
Downtown Portland’s Hotel Zags and PLS on Sixth are transforming their patio into an Oktoberfest hub from September 19 to October 10, featuring Weihenstephaner beers, Bavarian eats, live music, contests, and hotel stay discounts for safe celebrating. (The Brew Site)
5 Rights Brewing Hosts Annual Fresh Hop Festival, Oct. 4–6
5 Rights Brewing in Marysville will host Freshies & Friends 2025, October 4–6, pouring fresh hop beers from 11 standout breweries across Washington, Oregon, and California, including Russian River, Reuben’s, Bale Breaker, and Breakside. (Washington Beer Blog)
Anniversary Badge, Rare Beers, and The 1985 Headline Bell’s 40th Celebration
Bell’s Brewery will celebrate its 40th anniversary on Sunday, September 21, with a party at its Café & General Store featuring a special BBA Expedition Stout release, throwback beers, costumes, live music, oysters, merch, and exclusive anniversary badge check-ins. (Untappd)
BJCP Marks 40 Years with New Bravo Platform
The Beer Judge Certification Program is celebrating its 40th anniversary with the launch of its new Bravo platform, updated policies, new leadership roles, and enhanced recognition tools for judges worldwide. (BJCP)
National Barley Improvement Committee Adds Five Fresh Voices in 2025
The National Barley Improvement Committee has elected five new members and re-elected two, strengthening its regional representation as it continues advocating for federal funding and policies to support U.S. barley growers, researchers, and industry. (ProBrewer)
Nominations Open for 2025 Brewbound Awards
Brewbound has opened nominations for the 2025 Brewbound Awards—honoring standout beer companies, leaders, and innovations—with winners announced at Brewbound Live on December 10 in Marina del Rey; nominations close October 24. (Brewbound)
Somtum in a Glass: Bangkok Brewery Crafts Spicy Salad Beer
Bangkok’s United Peoples Brewery has brewed Hua Lamphong, a chile-laced sour ale inspired by Thailand’s iconic somtum salad, balancing lime, bird’s eye chiles, and umami notes into a spicy yet drinkable beer with a cheeky cultural backstory. (Craft Beer & Brewing)
LINK: Peaks & Pints beer and cider cooler inventory
