The Brew Times
All-American Brews: 5 Patriotic Mr. Beer Recipes to Brew for Memorial Day
Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, is a time for remembrance—a solemn day to honor and mourn the U.S. military members who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. It's also a day when many Americans come together with friends and family to reflect, share stories, and enjoy the freedoms those heroes fought to protect. This Memorial Day, celebrate with intention. Fire up the grill, gather your crew, and raise a glass of something homebrewed and heartfelt. Here are five red, white, and brew-worthy Mr. Beer recipes to toast with, plus food pairings to match every sip. 1. Patriot's Pride American Lager Flavor Profile: Crisp, clean, and easy-drinking with a balanced malt and hop profile. ABV: ~4.2% Why It's Patriotic: Brewed for the land of the free and the home of the grians. Nothing says America like a classic lager brewed with care. Inspired by the beauty of the American landscape and the spirit of independence, this brew is perfect for your cookout or backyard fireworks preview. Light, drinkable, and designed to be shared with kith and kin—this is the American dream in a bottle Pair With: Bratwursts, grilled corn on the cob, or classic cheeseburgers. This crisp lager balances rice and savory flavors beautifully. ⇒ Shop Now 2. Dad's Favorite Cream Ale Flavor Profile: Pale, light-bodied, and refreshingly smooth ABV: ~5.1% Why It's Patriotic: A true American original—and a tribute to hard-working heroes, including dad. Cream ales are a classic U.S. beer style, and this one lives up to its legacy. After mowing the lawn or manning the grill, this beer is the reward. Give Dad (or yourself) a frosty toast to effort, sacrifice, and savoring the little things. Pair With: Grilled chicken, hot dogs, or loaded potato salad. Light and versatile, it plays well with just about anything. ⇒ Shop Now 3. Rapturous Raspberry Flavor Profile: Sweet, tart raspberry flavors with a clean malt finish ABV: ~4.4% Why It's Patriotic: Bursting with red berry flavor, perfect for honoring the bold. Bright, flavorful, and picnic-perfect, this raspberry cerveza delivers a punch of summer fruit without being too heavy. It's a festive choice for those who like their beer with a splash of color and a whole lot of flavor. Pair with: BBQ-glazed chicken, grilled shrimp skewers, or fruit-forward summer salads. The berry tang cuts through spice and sweetness alike. ⇒ Shop Now 4. Sunday Morning Coming Down Coffee Stout Flavor Profile: Deep roasted coffee and chocolate notes with a smooth finish ABV: ~4.2% Why It's Patriotic: A toast to reflection—bold, dark, and full of character. Start your Memorial Day slow and meaningful with this rich stout. Brewed with dark espresso and Irish stout base, it's contemplative and bold—the kind of beer for sunrise flag ceremonies, storytelling, or honoring loved ones who served. Pair With: Smoked ribs, grilled portobello mushrooms, or even a slice of chocolate cake by the fire pit. Deep and indulgent, this one's made for flavorful bites. ⇒ Shop Now 5. Surly Dog IPA Flavor Profile: Resinous and citrusy with a hoppy bite ABV: ~8.8% Why It's Patriotic: Loud, proud, and unapologetically American in its punch. This heavy-hitting American IPA doesn't pull any punches. It's bold and bright, with citrusy hops and a backbone of strength—just like the spirit of those we honor on Memorial Day. Crack one open and sip slowly, surrounded by good people and good stories. Pair With: Spicy sausages, grilled pork chops, or anything with a kick. The hops love heart and bold flavors. ⇒ Shop Now Stock Up & Save This Memorial Day Why stick to just one recipe when the world of beer is full of flavor? Mix and match any two or more beer recipes and get 10% off your entire bundle—perfect for sharing, sampling, and brewing for all your weekend plans. Plus, shop the entire site at 15% off to stock up on ingredients, gear, or that next brew you've been eyeing. Celebrate with freedom and flavor, just the way it should be.
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The History of National Beer Day & How You Can Celebrate with a Homebrew
Every great holiday deserves a proper celebration, and National Beer Day is no exception. Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast, a homebrewing hobbyist, or just someone who enjoys a cold one, April 7th is a day to raise a glass to the beverage that has stood the test of time. But what exactly is National Beer Day, beyond just another excuse to crack open a cold one? And why do we celebrate it? Let's take a look at the history behind this beer-lovers holiday and how you can make the most of it with Mr. Beer. From Dry Spells to Cold Brews: The Birth of National Beer Day On December 18th, 1917, the U.S. Congress proposed the Eighteenth Amendment, better known as Prohibition, which banned the sale, transportation, and production of alcohol in the United States. While the intent was to curb alcohol consumption the reality was quite different. Prohibition led to a decline in the amusement and entertainment industries, which struggled to stay afloat without legally selling alcohol. Thousands of jobs were lost as breweries, distilleries, and saloons shut down, and even more workers in related trades—like barrel makers, truck drivers, and waiters found themselves unemployed. Fast forward to March 21st, 1933, when Congress passed the Cullen-Harrison Act. President Franklin Roosevelt signed it into law the following day, setting the stage for its enactment on April 7th, 1933. This act allowed the production and sale of beer with an alcohol content of up to 3.2% ABV, effectively signaling the beginning of the end of Prohibition. Finally, on December 5th, 1933, the Twenty-first Amendment repealed Prohibition altogether, making it the only constitutional amendment ever overturned. In honor of this historic moment, Justin Smith, a Richmond, Virginia Craft Beer Examiner, and his friend Mike Connolly from Liverpool, England, established National Beer Day. Celebrated every April 7th, this day marks the end of America's 12-year dry spell. Since then, it has been unofficially embraced by beer lovers across the country, with Virginia even recognizing it as an official state holiday. Beer has been around for thousands of years, with evidence of brewing dating back to 7,000 BC. Ancient Mesopotamians wrote poems about it, Ancient Egyptians used it in religious ceremonies, and medieval European monks perfected brewing into an art form. Today, beer is the third most popular beverage in the world—and more than 35 billion gallons are produced annually worldwide. How to Celebrate With Mr. Beer Alright, let's be real—what's the best way to celebrate National Beer Day? By enjoying a cold one, of course! And what's better than cracking open a beer? Cracking open one that you brewed yourself. Here's how you can make this National Beer Day extra special with Mr. Beer: Brew Your Own Batch: Whether you're new to brewing or a seasoned pro, there's something satisfying about crafting your own beer. Grab one of our complete kits, follow a few simple steps, and in a few weeks, you'll be sipping on your very own homebrew. Host a Beer Tasting Party: Invite your friends over, showcase your brewing skills, and taste different styles of beer. Compare notes, swap brewing tips, and toast to the repeal of Prohibition. Try a New Recipe: Been wanting to experiment with a new beer style? National Beer Day is the perfect excuse to miss things up. Try a new Mr.Beer recipe or get creative by adding fruit, spices, or hops to your next batch. And to make your National Beer Day even better, Mr. Beer is offering a 15% sitewide sale! Whether you need a new kit, refills, or some extra brewing gear, now's the perfect time to stock up. So, grab a beer (or better yet, brew your own), kick back, and celebrate National Beer Day the way it was meant to be—cheers!
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Hop To It: Your Guide to Hops and Their Flavors
Hops are the heart and soul of beer, giving it that distinctive aroma, flavor, and bitterness we all love. Whether you're a seasoned homebrewer or just a craft beer enthusiast, understanding hops can deepen your appreciation for every sip. In this article, we'll explore what hops are, popular varieties, and the science (and magic) behind hop additions. And guess what? You can get all your hops right from the Mr. Beer website! Plus, we have recipes crafted by our expert brewmasters featuring all your favorite hops—so you can brew the perfect pint at home. What are hops? Hops are the flowers (or cones) of the Humulus Lupulus plant, and they're basically the life of the beer party. These little green powerhouses contain essential oils and acids that contribute to a beer's bitterness, aroma, and flavor. Without hops, your beer would be flat, sweet, and way less exciting—so let's give them the respect they deserve! Hops help: Keep beer fresher for longer (yep, they're natural preservatives!). Maintain a beer's head retention, enhancing aroma and mouthfeel. Balance the sweetness of malt with bitterness. Infuse beer with a wide range of flavors, from citrusy and tropical to earthy and piney. Popular Hop Varieties and Their Characteristics Let's take a hop-forward journey through some of the most famous varieties—all of which you can find on the Mr. Beer website! Cascade Origin: Developed in the USA and released in 1971, Cascade is a cornerstone of American craft brewing. Characteristics: Known for its versatility, Cascade is used for both bittering and aroma. Flavor Profile: Dominant notes of floral, citrus, and pine, with a signature grapefruit aroma. Common Usage: Widely used in American Pale Ales and IPAs, Cascade imparts a distinctive American hop character. →You might like these brews: Howling Irish Red Ale, Horse's Ass American Pale Ale, Dangerously Hoppy IPA Centennial Origin: Released in 1990, Centennial was named in honor of Washington State's centennial celebration. Characteristics: Often referred to as "Super Cascade," Centennial boasts higher alpha acids (bitterness). It's prized for its dual-purpose capabilities for both bittering and aroma. Flavor Profile: Offers a balanced blend of floral and citrus notes, with less emphasis on grapefruit compared to Cascade. Common Usage: Ideal for Pale Ales and IPAs, Centennial provides a robust hop character with balanced bitterness →Consider these recipes: Slipper Socks Double IPA, Thunder Bay IPA, Phil-Hop-Sophy IPA Citra Origin: A relatively new variety, Citra has quickly become a favorite among brewers for its intense aromatic properties. Characteristics: With high alpha acids, Citra is primarily used for its intense aromatic properties rather than bittering. Flavor Profile: Renowned for its strong citrus aroma, including lime and grapefruit, complemented by topical fruit notes like mango and passionfruit. Common usage: Perdominetely featured in IPAs and Pale Ales, Citra imparts a vibrant, fruity aroma that defines many modern hop-forward beers. →Try these brews: Summertime Shanty, Sun Kissed Blonde Ale, Space Warrior Double IPA Northern Brewer Origin: Developed in England in 1934 for Scottish & Newcastle Breweries. Characteristics: This dual-purpose hop has moderate to high bitterness, contributing to its versatility in brewing. Flavor Profile: Features a unique combination of woody, earthy tones and subtle minty and piney notes. Common Usage: Commonly used in English-style ales, as well as California Common (steam) beers, Northern Brewer provides a distinct, robust hop character. →Explore these recipes: On The Mountain Pop Cream Ale, Shillelagh Stout, Rusky Business Amarillo Origin: Discovered in Washington's Yakima Valley, Amarillo has become a staple in craft brewing. Characteristics: With a mild alpha acid content, Amarilla is valued for both bittering and aromatic purposes. Flavor Profile: Offers a floral, tropical, and citrus-like aroma, often described as sweet orange or tangerine, with some topical fruit nuances. Common Usage: Widely used in American Ales, IPAs, and Pale Ales, Amarillo contributes a bright, citrusy character that enhances hop complexity. →Take a look at these brews: Running With The Dev-Ale, Royal Juice NEIPA, Queensland NEIPA 5 Gallon Time the Hop Additions: When to Toss Those Bad Boys In The magic of hops isn't just in what they bring to the table—it's also when they crash the party. Here's how timing affects your brew: Bittering Hops (Added early in the boil, 45-60min) - These hops give beer its signature bite. They're like the responsible friend who keeps things balanced. Flavoring Hops (Added in the last 15-20 min) - Want a specific hope taste? These are your go-to. Aroma Hops (Final minutes or after the boil) - These give that hoppy, fragrant goodness. Dry Hopping for Aroma If you want to supercharge your beer's aroma without adding bitterness, dry hopping is where it's at. Toss those hops straight into the fermenter after the primary fermentation and let them work their magic. This technique is a must for hop-forward styles like IPAs. The Secret Superpower of Hops: They're Natural Preservatives! Fun Fact: Hops were originally used in beer to prevent spoilage before refrigeration existed. But even after the fridge came along, brewers kept adding them because—let's be honest—beer just tastes better with them! Stock Up on Hops from Mr. Beer! Whether you're after Cascade's citrus burst or Simcoe's piney punch, Mr. Beer has you covered. Check out our selection of high-quality hops and start crafting your perfect brew today! Want to experiment with different hops and find your favorite? We’ve got brewmaster-crafted recipes to help you explore unique flavors and brewing styles—try them out and discover the perfect hop for your next batch! In Celebration of Our Upcoming Brew-Along! In anticipation of our upcoming brew-along and the release of our new Sun-Kissed Blonde Ale - Hoppy Summer Edition, now's the perfect time to experiment with hops! This crisp golden ale is balanced with a touch of Cascade bitterness and a bold citrus punch from dry-hopped Citra—a refreshing companion for those sunny days by the grill. Get ready to brew along with us and experience the magic of hops firsthand!
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From Idea to Glass: How to Design Your Own Homebrew Recipe
Create Your Own Homebrew Recipe: Brew your Dream Beer! Want to take the next step and push your brewing abilities to the next level? Designing your own homebrew recipe is a fun, rewarding adventure—and there's nothing quite like cracking open a cold one that you made yourself. Ready to make your dream beer a reality? Let's dive in! Step 1: Pick your Beer Style First things first: what kind of beer are you in the mood to create? If you're looking to save time, start with a style you're familiar with, maybe one you've brewed before, and tweak it for a new twist. Look through the Mr. Beer refill section to find your perfect base. For some more inspiration, the Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP) style guidelines are your best friend. They give you a complete rundown from flavor profiles to ingredient tips. But, hey don't be afraid to get creative and break the rules! Step 2: Gather your ingredients Now that you've got your beer style locked down, it's time to think about the essential ingredients that will bring your beer to life. You're going to need the classic four: malt, hops, yeast, and water. But within each of these categories, there's an ocean of options to explore. Luckily, Mr. Beer has you covered from specialty grains to fresh hops, we have everything you need! Malts: This is going to serve as the backbone of your beer. If you're brewing something dark like a porter, then roasted malts with chocolate or coffee flavors are calling your name! Think of malts as the flavor palette that sets the stage for everything else. Hops: These little guys are going to add bitterness, flavor, and that signature aroma that makes beer so irresistible. The hops you choose will depend on your style, for a juicy IPA reach for something like Cascade or Citra for the citrusy notes. Yeast: The magic happens here (no, seriously!). Yeast ferments the sugars in your wort and turns it into alcohol! Different strains will produce different flavors and aromas. Step 3: Put It All Together With your ingredients in hand, it's time to design your recipe. A great place to start is by using a beer recipe calculator that can help you figure out things like your beer's alcohol content (ABV), bitterness level (IBUs), and color (SRM). Don't be afraid of the more technical aspects—it's part of the fun! Almost every Mr. Beer recipe comes to life thanks to the Brewer's Friend Beer Recipe Calculator and the creative genius of our Brewmasters. That's how we craft the delicious recipes you know and love! Step 4: Brew It Up! Now comes the fun part—brewing your beer! As you brew keep your eye on these numbers to make sure your beer turns out just the way you want it! Original Gravity (OG): This is how strong your beer will be before fermentation. Typically, the higher the OG, the higher the alcohol content. Bitterness (IBUs): The bitterness ratio helps you balance your beer's flavor—think of it as the battle between hops and malt. A super hoppy IPA? High bitterness ratio. A smooth, malty stout? Low bitterness ratio. Color (SRM): It's an easy way to match your beer's appearance its style. Keep it simple: if you want light beer, stick to pale malts; if you want something dark, go for the deep toasty ones! Final Gravity (FG): This is the last gravity reading after fermentation, showing how much sugar is left and your final alcohol content. As you start out, final gravity isn’t something to stress over—it’s just good to keep notes! Step 5: Perfect Your Brewing Technique Once you've got your ingredients and recipe dialed in, it's time to focus on technique! Different beer styles call for different methods, so here are a few key ones to consider: Hops: Play with dry hopping, late additions, or bittering hops to get the right aroma and balance. Steeping: Instead of mashing, Mr. Beer uses steeping—a simple way to add rich, grainy flavors to your brew without the extra work. Just soak your grains in hot water (155-160°F) for 30 minutes, like making a strong tea for your beer. Easy, flavorful, and no complicated mash required! Fermentation & Aging: Keep your yeast happy by fermenting at the right temp, and consider aging for smoother results. Brewing is part science, part art—so experiment, have fun, and enjoy the process! Step 6: Taste and Adjust You're almost there! Now that your beer is brewed and fermented, it's time to taste it. Don't be afraid to take notes on what you love and what you might want to tweak next time. The beauty of homebrewing is that it's a continuous process of trial, error, and improvement. If you love how it turned out, you've just crafted your very own beer recipe! If not, hey there's always next time. Final Sip Creating your own beer is a totally rewarding experience, and you don’t have to be a pro to get started. With a little creativity, a few great ingredients, and some good ol’ fashioned trial and error, you’ll soon be sipping on the beer of your dreams. So what are you waiting for? Get brewing, and let your imagination run wild! Cheers to your next homebrew adventure! Looking for All the Homebrewing Ingredients You Need? We’ve got you covered! Mr. Beer offers specialty grains, brewer’s yeast, hops, and malt extract so you can get started brewing your own masterpiece. Check out our full selection of ingredients here, and start making your dream beer today! Remember, there's no rush—brewing should be fun, not stressful! If creating your own recipe feels overwhelming, just kick back and reorder your favorite Mr.Beer refill. It’s easy, delicious, and always a win!
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The Great Beer Migration: How Seasonal Brews Took Over Winter
It’s the middle of winter. The days are short, the nights are cold, and all you want is a warm blanket and a cold pint of… something that feels like the holidays in a glass. Enter the winter beer. From rich stouts to spiced ales, winter beers have become a beloved staple for beer enthusiasts—but how did this seasonal tradition start? Let’s dive into the frothy history of winter brews and how they’ve become such a hit. A Brief History of Seasonal Beers Seasonal brewing is no new trend. In fact, it dates back centuries to a time when brewing wasn’t just a hobby or an art—it was a survival tactic. Ancient brewers crafted beers to match the seasons, using ingredients that were fresh, local, and available. In the winter, that often meant heartier, darker beers made with spices to warm both the body and spirit. During medieval times, monks played a huge role in popularizing seasonal brews. They created beers with higher alcohol content for winter, not just because they were delicious, but because they provided more calories during fasting periods. (Fun fact: Who knew beer could be a meal replacement?) Why Winter Brews Are Darker, Stronger, and Spiced The Role of Tradition in Winter Beers Winter beers didn’t become darker and spicier by accident. In colder months, people naturally craved richer, more robust flavors. Brewers leaned into this by incorporating roasted malts for depth, higher alcohol for warmth, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for seasonal flair. Brewing for Survival: Cold-Weather Brewing Practices Centuries ago, refrigeration wasn’t an option. Winter brought cooler fermentation temperatures, which lent themselves to styles like lagers and stouts. Brewers also used heartier ingredients that could withstand storage through the long, dark season. How Seasonal Beer Became a Marketing Phenomenon Fast forward to modern times, and seasonal beer is no longer just about tradition—it’s about excitement. Breweries saw an opportunity to connect their craft to the festive spirit of winter. Limited-edition beers became a surefire way to attract fans and keep sales flowing during slower months. Brands like Sierra Nevada’s Celebration Ale and Anchor Brewing’s Christmas Ale paved the way for today’s flood of winter-themed beers. Consumers now eagerly await these releases as part of their holiday traditions, much like eggnog or gingerbread cookies. The Modern Winter Beer Scene Winter Beers You Have to Try This SeasonNot sure where to start? Here are a few winter beers that deserve a spot on your must-try list: Samuel Smith’s Winter Welcome Ale: A classic British ale with notes of caramel and fruit. Deschutes Jubelale: A rich, malty brew with hints of toffee and spice. Great Lakes Christmas Ale: Packed with honey and spices, this one screams holiday cheer. Mr. Beer’s Long Play IPA with a Winter Twist: Brew our signature Long Play IPA and customize it with orange peel and coriander during fermentation for a citrusy, spiced winter brew. Grab the kit here and get creative with your seasonal spin! How to Brew a Winter-Inspired Beer at Home Homebrewers, rejoice! Crafting your own winter beer can be as simple or as complex as you like. Experiment with roasted malts, holiday spices, and higher ABV recipes to capture the essence of the season. Mr. Beer’s advanced kits make it easy to bring your wintry brew dreams to life. Brewmaster's Final Pour: Winter beers aren’t just drinks—they’re traditions that bring warmth to the coldest season. Whether you’re savoring a spiced ale or crafting your own brew with a seasonal twist, remember: the magic of winter is in every pour. Cheers to great beer and even greater brews to come!
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