397: Brewing Scientist and Historian Greg Casey Builds a Case for the Worldwide Impact of American Lager Brewing

“If you like beer," says Greg Casey, "There’s no better time in the history of mankind to be living in the United States, right now.” And if anyone is qualified to make such a statement, it's Casey. After decades leading yeast and quality programs for some of the biggest brewers in the Western hemisphere, Casey retired to work on his passion project—telling the story of American brewing from the 1830's to the present in a way that showcases its innovation as well as the interplay through that history with parallel brewing cultures and industries in Europe. In this episode, Casey hits on turning points in American lager brewing history, outlining the contexts and driving factors in large scale recipe changes, consumer preferences, ABVs, and more. Along the way, he discusses: differences in 1800's beer drinkers in Europe and America American brewers' development of pale beer without chill haze the two prominent yeast lineages in American lager brewing "flowering times" through American brewing history where beer, in general, became lighter early attempts to ban corn and rice via congressional action the impact of the pork industry on brewery closures in the 1940's the long history of using offbeat ingredients in American beer And more. This episode is brought to you by: G&D Chillers ( https://gdchillers.com ) : G&D Chillers builds with non-proprietary parts, expert craftsmanship and constant innovation! G&D’s in-house Engineering crew have been piping breweries, wineries and distilleries for over 30 years. They offer FREE piping design and consultation with the sale of every chiller they build. Reach out for a quote today. Berkeley Yeast ( https://berkeleyyeast.com ) . Stop worrying about diacetyl with Berkeley Yeast’s line of Fresh™ strains. These revolutionary yeast strains are engineered to produce the ALDC enzyme inside the cell, preventing diacetyl before it forms. That means no more lengthy diacetyl rests—just clean, crisp beer that’s ready for packaging sooner. Learn more at berkeleyyeast.com/fresh. Old Orchard ( https://www.oldorchard.com/brewer ) : Every beer menu could use a refresh button on the fruit flavors. That's why it's time to revisit Old Orchard's flavored craft juice concentrate blends, where the latest additions include Fruit Punch, Guava, Kiwi, and Pomegranate. More information and free samples are waiting at oldorchard.com/brewer Indie Hops ( https://indiehops.com ) Strata, Indie’s original hop release, is now available in cold-side flowable hop oil form—Strata HyperBoost—in coordination with Yakima Chief Hops. Indie Hops T90 pellets establish the multi-layered Strata experience, while cryogenic CGX pellets in coordination with Crosby Hops, and now Strata HyperBoost with YCH expand the possibilities. Learn more about Strata and Indie’s more recent hop releases at www.indiehops.com . Ss Brewtech ( https://www.ssbrewtech.com ) Featuring a laser-welded cooling jacket for efficient and precise temperature control, an innovative silicone racking arm, and a carbonation stone that allows you to carbonate right in the fermenter, Unitank 2.0 is engineered to help you get the most out of your fermentations! Visit Ss Brewtech.com to learn more! Isuzu Trucks ( https://www.isuzucv.com ) Whether you are looking for a self-distribution solution or one to deliver supplies, there is an Isuzu truck that will fit your needs. Go to isuzucv.com to check out their impressive lineup or visit an Isuzu dealer today to find out why now, more than ever, Isuzu trucks are the trucks you trust for the work you do! Brewer's Retreat ( https://brewersretreat.com ) Tickets for the Craft Beer & Brewing 2025 Brewer’s Retreat in Asheville and Mills River, North Carolina are on sale now and going fast. Brew on homebrew systems with some of the most inspiring craft brewers in the U.S. Learn more and secure your tickets at brewersretreat.com Support Craft Beer & Brewing Magazine Podcast