Episode 496 - Half Acre Beer Co.

ABV Chicago Craft Beer Podcast

We can give a lot of credit to Half Acre co-founder Gabriel Magliaro for helping awaken the craft beer scene in Chicago. And more than 16 years later, Half Acre is still a leader in craft in the city and all over the country, so we’re thrilled to sit down with Gabriel for a deep dive into the history of his legendary brewery. We talk about how he was strongly advised against putting beer in 16-ounce cans, how opening a retail shop exposed the brand to a new audience, the evolution of their barrel program to its esteemed current status, and why the Lincoln taproom sale was the best of all outcomes. Then, Craig and Ryan open four Half Acre beers across a variety of styles to review, and it’s kind of a cosmic gumbo. Also, we’re trying hard to make Slowdem a real thing.

Gabriel Magliaro Interview (00:07:29 - 01:09:02)

Beers Reviewed

Green Torch (Lime Lager)

Bodem (IPA)

Slow Wink (West Coast IPA)

Double Barrel Benthic 2022 (Double arrel-aged imperial stout with toasted coconut and cinnamon)