The beer biz never sleeps at American Craft Beer. And here’s just some of what’s been happening in the beer world while you were enjoying the weekend.

New “Beer Is Art” Film Dives Deep Into Global Brewing Culture

Beer Is Art has just released its newest documentary, and it’s not your typical craft beer flick. Shot over several months and spanning continents, the film takes viewers on a visual journey from massive New York production breweries to the ancient brewing traditions of South Africa.

It’s equal parts science lesson and cultural exploration, revealing how brewing is rooted in history yet constantly shaped by innovation. Sweeping cinematography and genuine storytelling give the documentary a depth that goes beyond foam and fermentation — it positions beer as a craft, a science, and, yes, an art.

One of the most striking storylines takes place in South Africa, where sorghum has long been the backbone of traditional brewing. The film opens with moving scenes of local women preparing sorghum beer the way their ancestors have done for generations — hands in the grain, fire stoked beneath clay pots, the process unfolding in true community spirit.

Those moments are juxtaposed with sleek, modern brewing setups and precision equipment like the Grainfather system. The contrast is powerful, showing how age-old techniques and cutting-edge technology don’t compete, but instead inform and elevate each other.

The documentary also offers a rare look at traditional Setswana beer brewing from start to finish — an art form that isn’t often captured on camera. Whether you’re a brewer, a beer geek, or just someone who appreciates craftsmanship, this film invites you to see beer differently.

Not just as a beverage, but as a living expression of heritage and innovation.

Words to Drink By

“The people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do.” Steve Jobs, American businessman, investor, and inventor

(Courtesy Lakefront Brewery)

Lakefront Black Friday Beers – 2025

Milwaukee-based Lakefront Brewery has announced the return of an annual tradition, it’s special Black Friday releases. And this year’s Black Friday releases include four special offerings along with a festive early-morning crowd, (these beers are uber-collectable), and a charitable coat drive for local students.

And here’s what fans look forward this year…

2025 Black Friday™ Imperial Stout – Aged in Great Lakes Distillery’s Still & Oak Black Friday Straight Whiskey Barrels.

2025 Black Friday™ Triple Black IPA – Dry-Hopped with Cascade, Citra, Centennial, and Chinook Hops.

2025 Black Friday™ Wheatwine Ale – Aged in Brandy Barrels.

2025 Black Friday™ Imperial Coffee & Cacao Nib Stout – Aged in Great Lakes Distillery’s Still & Oak Black Friday Straight Whiskey Barrels.

“We typically start discussing next year’s Black Friday beer pretty shortly after the current year”, says Luther Paul, Lakefront’s Head Brewer, “with these beers needing several months to age properly in barrels, it’s a year-round labor of love creating the finest liquid we can for those making the trek to see us that day.”

And beer lovers historically line up as early as the night before to ensure a chance at their desired allotment of Black Friday™ beer. Just as with the Goose Island Bourbon County Black Friday release, many have turned it into a tradition, collecting multiple years of the special releases to share with friends and family over the holidays.

All varieties will come  packaged in cool 19.2oz. cans and placed in dynamic individual boxes with no limit to the amount an individual can purchase. And every 2025 Black Friday beer will be available to try at the bar while supplies last. Plus a collectible Black Friday souvenir wrapped pint glass will be free for those who purchase a minimum of four Black Friday™ cans.

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