Press Release: Chicago – Two Master Cicerones with deep experience in the beer industry have purchased the Cicerone Certification Program from its founder, Ray Daniels.
NEW EPISODE: In this episode of the BeerWise Podcast, I am joined by Tim Ogden, owner and brewer of Deviant Libation, one of Tampa’s newest brewers helmed by one the area’s most experienced brewers.
The chapter has closed on another Tampa Bay Beer Week, and after attending some classic events and some new events, there are a few common threads that seemed to ring true for all time and some that are changing rapidly.
One of Florida’s most popular dessert-beer confectionaries is at it again with their beers of Pi Day. Oakland Park’s Funky Buddha Brewery is celebrating March 14th by giving the people what they want – pie-inspired beers, this time debuting in 16oz cans.
Orlando’s Deadwords Brewing Company, a local favorite and GABF Medal-winning brewery, has announced that they will close their location on Orange Blossom Trail in the Parramore neighborhood at the end of April 2024.
According to an article published March 6th by WFTV, the relative newcomer to the Orlando beer scene has announced that due to “several months of negotiations with the brewery’s landlord and the inability to reach a feasible arrangement to enable the brewery’s continued operation at its current location,” the brewery said in a news release. “From the outset, Deadwords Brewing embarked on its journey amid the unprecedented global COVID-19 pandemic, facing immense challenges including massive delays, cost overruns and the slow implementation of the Parramore Main Street development program.”
Deadwords had previously filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy protection in November 2023, but remained open through the process and promised to continue making beer. “Deadwords: Filed on Oct. 1, listing between $500,000-$1 million in assets and $1 million-$10 million in liabilities. The brewery opened in 2022 and has an Orlando taproom near Camping World Stadium. It remains open,” according to the Orlando Business Journal article from the same time.
Deadwords became known for their embrace of historical and modern beer styles alike as well as their spacious taproom and eclectic decor, including a large message board reminiscent of those in a train station or bus stop, which would change messages regularly with announcements and fun facts about beer and beer history.
“While short-lived, the success of Deadwords Brewing is as much a testament to the spirit and passion of our guests as it is to the quality of our beer and the dedication of our team,” the release said. “Your support has been the light during the most challenging times, and for that, we are eternally grateful.”
The same release cites April 27th as the closing day for Deadwords Brewing. The brewery also said that all merchandise will be liquidated with updates coming in the future in that regard.
About Deadwords Brewing
Deadwords Brewing is a craft brewpub operating in the Parramore District of Downtown Orlando. We produce a portfolio of the highest quality beers brewed with the finest ingredients, inspired by the pioneers and innovators of the American craft beer movement. We feature artisan menu items with locally sourced ingredients.
Press Release: The accolades keep pouring in for Fort Myers Brewing Co. as they proudly announce their latest achievements in the world of craft brewing. The esteemed brewery has been named Florida’s Best Large Brewery, further solidifying its status as a leader in the industry. Adding to the celebration, Fort Myers Brewing has clinched an impressive array of medals, including golds and silvers, at the 2024 Best Florida Beer Brewer’s Ball.
Leading the charge are our gold medalists, the OYA Double IPA and Czech Around Pilsner. OYA, known for its potent citra hop character, took home the gold in the Imperial IPA category, while Czech Around, a super refreshing and malty delight with a spicy hop finish, secured the gold in the Bohemian Pilsner category.
In addition to OYA and Czech Around’s triumphs, Fort Myers Brewing’s lineup boasts other standout brews, such as the Penny Lager, a Copper Lager exuding a warm, inviting malt character reminiscent of biscuit, honey, and subtle bruleed sugar which secured a silver medal in the American Style Amber Lager category. The illustrious Chocolate Stout is a decadent Imperial Stout beloved by chocoholics everywhere. This brew, boasting rich layers of chocolate intertwined with hints of dark roasted coffee, has garnered top honors, including a bronze medal at this year’s Best Florida Beer competition.
Fort Myers Brewing Co’s signature High 5 IPA, an IPA featuring Citra and Centennial hops, has clinched multiple gold medals including the Gold Medal for Best Florida Beer in 2015 and 2023. Over the years, High 5 has reaffirmed its status as a fan favorite winning a bronze medal in the Pale Ale Category.
“We are thrilled to be recognized as Florida’s Best Large Brewery,” exclaimed Rob Whyte, co-founder of Fort Myers Brewing Co. “It’s a testament to the dedication and passion of our team, who consistently strive for excellence in every batch we produce.”
For those seeking a taste of victory, Fort Myers Brewing invites beer enthusiasts to savor their award-winning brews, available on tap or in cans at their brewery located at 12811 Commerce Lakes Drive, Suite 28, in Fort Myers and at various locations throughout the state of Florida.
The recent accolades come on the heels of Fort Myers Brewing’s consistent success at the Best Florida Beer Championships, where they have medaled every year since their inception in 2013. With a total of 37 Best Florida Beer accolades including; being named Best Large Brewery in Florida 3 times, 17 gold, 9 silver, and 11 bronze medals under their belt, Fort Myers Brewing continues to set the bar high for craft breweries across the state. The Best Florida Beer Championships, a sanctioned beer, mead, and cider championship is sponsored by Best Florida Beer. This professional competition aims to promote commercial breweries, their brewers, and excellence in craft beer. The 2024 competition attracted 780 judged entries in 46 Medal Groups.
About Fort Myers Brewing
Opening in an industrial park in 2013, Fort Myers Brewing Company was the first microbrewery in Lee County. Now, as one of the largest breweries in the state of Florida, we continue to lead the surging craft beer movement. Amidst our rapid growth, FMBrew’s promise remains the same – to brew the best beer you’ll ever drink!
One of the most fantastic weeks of the year is beginning on Friday, March 1st! Tampa Bay Beer Week is again upon us and the week will see a massive number of beer releases and events from breweries around Tampa Bay and surrounding counties all celebrating the love of beer and beer culture.