The world of alcoholic beverages is changing rapidly. Products like canned cocktails and hard seltzer – along with the low-carb trend – are changing the way consumers drink. And despite the growth of craft beer over the last decade, it’s a whole new world for breweries, wineries and distilleries.
But what does all of this really mean for the beer industry? We consulted with Megan Mares, trade brewer for MillerCoors about the changing beer landscape. During our chat, we trace Mares’ journey from infectious disease researcher to Trade Brewer for Miller-Coors, and she shares her perspective on how both science (and smarts) play a role in training folks to taste and appreciate the many flavors in beer. Along the way, we discuss the changing beverage market, explore trends (from milkshake IPAs to the return of lagers) and discuss the future of beer in a world ruled by e-commerce.
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Got an idea for a topic we should consider for FoodCrush? Want to offer feedback on our latest episode? Email me at lori@staff.onmilwaukee.com. You can also give @FoodCrushMKE a follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
As a passionate champion of the local dining scene, Lori has reimagined the restaurant critic's role into that of a trusted dining concierge, guiding food lovers to delightful culinary discoveries and memorable experiences.
Lori is an avid cook whose accrual of condiments and spices is rivaled only by her cookbook collection. Her passion for the culinary industry was birthed while balancing A&W root beer mugs as a teenage carhop, fed by insatiable curiosity and fueled by the people whose stories entwine with every dish. Lori is the author of two books: the "Wisconsin Field to Fork" cookbook and "Milwaukee Food". Her work has garnered journalism awards from entities including the Milwaukee Press Club. In 2024, Lori was honored with a "Top 20 Women in Hospitality to Watch" award by the Wisconsin Restaurant Association.
When she’s not eating, photographing food, writing or planning for TV and radio spots, you’ll find Lori seeking out adventures with her husband Paul, traveling, cooking, reading, learning, snuggling with her cats and looking for ways to make a difference.
