Craft Beer Podcast Discusses Schlitz Hiatus, Busch Gardens Free Beer Promotion, and the Search for the Worst Beer Ever Paid For

Schlitz Hiatus, Free Beer Promotions, and Craft Beer Horror Stories

The latest episode of Craft Beer Republic covers several notable beer industry topics, including Pabst Brewing Company’s decision to place Schlitz Premium on hiatus, the return of free beer promotions at Busch Gardens, and ongoing discussions about beer quality and freshness.

Hosts Greg and Flex, joined by Steph from the Utah Brewers Guild, discuss stale craft beer inventory, memorable drain pours, barrel-aged beer, and a surprise voicemail from longtime listener Psycho Bear.

Schlitz Placed on Hiatus After 175 Years

One of the biggest beer industry stories discussed in the episode is Pabst Brewing Company’s decision to place Schlitz Premium on hiatus.

According to Pabst, rising storage and shipping costs contributed to the decision. The brewery noted that the brand remains an important part of its history and left open the possibility of a future return.

The discussion also touches on Schlitz’s long history in American brewing and its place among legacy beer brands that continue to hold recognition with consumers decades after their peak popularity.

Busch Gardens Brings Back Free Beer Promotion

Busch Gardens is once again offering complimentary beer to eligible guests during the summer season.

The promotion allows annual pass holders, members, and military pass holders to receive one free beer per day during designated promotional periods. Additional discounted beer offerings are also available at participating parks.

The return of the promotion continues a long connection between Busch Gardens and beer culture dating back to the park’s historic ties to Anheuser-Busch.

Beer Freshness and the Craft Beer Shelf-Life Problem

A major discussion in the episode centers on beer freshness after Greg discovers a five-year-old IPA sitting on a retail shelf.

The discovery sparks a broader conversation about inventory rotation, aging hop-forward beer styles, and the challenges consumers face when shopping for craft beer at large retailers.

The hosts discuss the importance of checking packaging dates, particularly for IPA and hazy IPA releases where freshness can significantly impact flavor and quality.

The Worst Beer Ever Paid For

A listener email leads to a conversation about memorable beer disappointments.

Stories include a red ale that tasted like pennies, a doppelbock that resembled soy sauce, barrel-aged beers that missed the mark, and several unforgettable drain pours.

The discussion highlights a reality familiar to many craft beer fans: even experienced drinkers occasionally find a beer they simply cannot finish.

California Craft Beer Updates From Psycho Bear

Longtime listener Psycho Bear calls in with updates from California beer country.

His voicemail touches on Firestone Walker, Wondrous Brewing, Schumer’s final day, barrel-aged imperial stouts, and recent brewery visits throughout the region.

The call also sparks discussion about regional breweries and the changing craft beer landscape.

Featured Beers

• Malibu Brewing Company Hippie Van HazyHazy IPA featuring pine, citrus, and dank hop character.

• Templin Family Brewing Mexican LagerA crisp lager discussed after a disappointing doppelbock experience.

• Skygazer Brewing Watercolors Fruit PunchA smoothie sour brewed with pineapple, passionfruit, raspberry, and mango.

• Drowned Lands KinsfolkA doppelbock that sparked discussion about beer quality and off-flavors.

Listen Now

The latest episode of Craft Beer Republic, titled “Worst Beer I Ever Paid For,” is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.