By Lori Fredrich Senior Food Writer, Dining Editor, Podcast Host Published Jun 12, 2019 at 6:01 PM

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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Lori Fredrich Senior Food Writer, Dining Editor, Podcast Host

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 each and every dish. She’s had the privilege of chronicling these tales via numerous media, including OnMilwaukee and in her book “Milwaukee Food.” Her work has garnered journalism awards from entities including the Milwaukee Press Club. 

When she’s not eating, photographing food, writing or recording the FoodCrush podcast, 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.