If you know me, you know I love smoked beers.

It all started with Hammerheart Brewing Company. An associate of mine brought a growler of beer to share from Hammerheart called Bog Burial. I learned that it was an Extra Special Bitter aged in Laphroaig barrels. While others were at the table loathing the smoky flavor, I was entranced.

“This is what beer can taste like”, I said to myself. It’s not a new revelation to me by any means; It’s what continues to drive my appreciation for craft beer.

I would soon discover Live Oak’s Grodizske, the history and flavor behind Bamberg, Germany’s Schlenkerla and taste Lichenhainer-style beers from Blackman Brewing, Vector Brewing and others.

It’s an interest that I think only fresh hopheads can understand. The hunt for another flavor expression. For me, it’s about the smoke as well as hops (and peppers/chiles, too, but that’s another blog).

So, when Funky Picnic Brewery & Café co-founder Collin Zreet mentioned he and TexMalt are hosting an inaugural smoke beer competition in Fall 2022, I was absolutely thrilled. The competition will award 1st, 2nd and 3rd place style and technical awards, as well as a Brewer’s Choice award that will be brewed on their pilot system and be placed on tap at Funky Picnic.

Homebrewers, here are the full details from Funky Picnic and the registration link.

Can’t wait to taste the winning brew! In meantime, find yourself a sip of smoke.