Podcast
UnCapped Podcast
Hosted by Chris Sands · EN
A weekly discussion with your favorite brewers and brewery owners.
20episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Episode 390 - Heavy Seas Turns 30 and Wanderland
Sep 2601:16:16Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Uncapped Podcast, I sat down with Hugh and Caroline Sisson of Heavy Seas Beer to celebrate a their 30 years in craft beer. We dug into how they’re marking the occasion with special releases, collaborations, and a big anniversary party this December.We also talked about the state of today’s beer industry, including shifting drinking habits, rising costs, and why being a legacy brand gives Heavy Seas an edge. Hugh shared insights from three decades in beer, including why adaptability is everything, while Caroline gave a peek behind the scenes at anniversary highlights like the 30th Anniversary Variety Pack, Loose Cannon’s 20th birthday, and the big celebration to come.It’s a fun mix of history, industry insight, and excitement for the future of one of Maryland’s most iconic breweries.Caroline also gave a little preview of Wanderland, a brand-new event from the Brewers Association of Maryland that’s bringing together breweries, wineries, and distilleries from all over the state. Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelFollow Chris on Instagram Like us on Facebook! Supported by the Brewers Association of Maryland
Transcribe →Episode 389 - Kill The Lights 2024 ep1
Sep 2301:41:11Tap to summarizeAs we approach Xul Beer Company's Kill the Lights beer festival let's listen to another episode of stupid questions recorded at last years festival. Kill the Lights is one of the best festivals out there. Get your tickets here: https://xulbeer.com/event/kill-the-lights-2025-2025-10-25/This episode features the following people:Brad West - Xul Beer CompanySeth Thacker - Xul Beer CompanyFrank Zagami - Deciduous Brewing CompanyZac Porter - Schilling Beer CompanyKen Correll - Human RobotGarret Chambers - Cushwa Brewing CompanyWhitney Myhra - Drekker Brewing CompanyDan O'Hara - Foam BrewersMarc-Andre Filion - Messorem Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelFollow Chris on Instagram Like us on Facebook! Supported by the Brewers Association of Maryland
Transcribe →Episode 388 - Frey's
Aug 22Tap to summarizeIn this episode I interviewed Adam Frey, owner of Frey's, a farm brewery and winery and part of a larger 2500 acre farm. Adam discusses several significant changes and initiatives at the farm, including a 33-acre wetlands and stream restoration project designed to mitigate flood damage, reduce erosion, and promote wildlife diversity. He also highlights their unique beginner's off-road course, which utilizes portions of the farm for recreational driving experiences. Additionally, Frey touches upon the challenges of modern farming, the shift in their business model from solely brewing to including wine, and the broader regional issues concerning proposed transmission lines and their potential impact on local businesses and the environment.Follow Chris on InstagramLike us on Facebook! Supported by the Brewers Association of Maryland
Transcribe →Episode 387 - Martinis and Mixology
Jun 24, 202501:08:44Tap to summarizeIn this episode, I sit down with Josh Cross, the beverage director at Wye Oak Tavern, to dive into the martini renaissance and all things mixology. We talk about how martinis have evolved over time, from their sweeter beginnings to the bone-dry versions people love today, and how something as simple as glassware can impact both presentation and function. Josh walks me through his creative process for developing new cocktails, where he pulls inspiration from big ideas, specific spirits, and the occasional trend. We also get into the resurgence of espresso and dirty martinis, the age-old debate of shaking vs. stirring, and why having the right tools and ingredients makes all the difference. It’s a great conversation about balancing classic techniques with fresh, creative flavor.Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelFollow Chris on Instagram Like us on Facebook! Supported by the Brewers Association of Maryland
Transcribe →Episode 386 - Rye Curious
May 13, 202501:14:17Tap to summarizeOn this episode I had the chance to sit down with Braden Bumpers from McClintock Distilling, Eli Breitburg-Smith from Baltimore Spirits Company, and Ryan Norwood from Sagamore Spirits. We talked all about Rye Curious—a special collaborative Maryland rye whiskey blend created by these three distilleries. We got into the details of the project, including the guidelines that required the whiskey to be at least three years old and distilled right here in Maryland. These three were ready to roll this year, but we’re all hopeful more distilleries will join in future editions. We also explored each of their approaches to distilling and blending rye, the unique aspects of their stills and techniques, how Rye Curious came together, and what’s ahead—including more releases and events in the Spirits of Maryland series.Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelFollow Chris on InstagramLike us on Facebook! Supported by the Brewers Association of Maryland
Transcribe →Episode 385 - True Standard Distilling
May 4, 202501:10:39Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Uncapped podcast, I have the pleasure of chatting with Brian and Ashley Allen, the passionate founders of True Standard Distilling. We talked about the upcoming grand opening that takes place on May 29th. They share the story behind their distillery’s name, highlighting the deep meaning of "distilling" as opposed to "distillery" and the hurdles they've faced in trademarking their brand. We dive into their craft of rum-making, where their commitment to quality is front and center: staying true to the standard of aged, additive-free rum. They introduce their diverse lineup, including a unique silver spiced rum and one of their amazing aged rums, Oxford Reserve. Plus, they give us a behind-the-scenes look at their thoughtfully designed facility—featuring a barrel room inspired by natural aging conditions and an archive room filled with historical batches. Throughout our conversation, they share inspiring insights into their journey from passionate hobbyists to proud distillery owners in Frederick, Maryland, and reflect on the incredible support they've received from their local community. We also discussed a proposal taking place at the distillery. This is a story of passion, craftsmanship, and community that you won’t want to miss! Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelFollow Chris on Instagram Like us on Facebook! Supported by the Brewers Association of Maryland
Transcribe →Episode 384 - Maryland Craft Beer Festival
Apr 25, 202500:53:05Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Uncapped podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with John Zerivitz of Cultivate and Craft, representing the Brewers Association of Maryland, and Abby Casarella, the event manager for the Brewers Association of Maryland Brewers Association of Maryland. We dive into everything you need to know about the upcoming Maryland Craft Beer Festival—set in the heart of downtown Frederick. From the date and time to exciting new features like the Super VIP experience (think early access, private lounges, and exclusive presentations), we cover it all. We also get into the festival’s impressive growth, the incredible lineup of Maryland breweries, live entertainment, and why grabbing your tickets in advance is a must. And of course, we keep things fun with our signature off-the-wall questions and plenty of laughs along the way. If you love craft beer, good vibes, and a little bit of chaos, this one's for you. Get your tickets here —> www.mdcraftbeerfestival.com Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelFollow Chris on Instagram Like us on Facebook! Supported by the Brewers Association of Maryland
Transcribe →Episode 383 - Fallen Oak Distilling
Apr 22, 202501:00:04Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Uncapped Podcast, we visited Fallen Oak Distilling, located right next to Lone Oak Brewery. We sat down with the four co-owners, Chris, Charlie, Ralph, and Ryan, to talk about how both establishments got started and evolved over time. They share the story of the fallen oak tree that not only inspired the distillery's name but also provided wood for its construction. We dive into their unique farm-to-bottle approach, the wide variety of spirits and beers they offer, the mix of family-friendly and adult-focused spaces, and the backgrounds that each owner brings to the table. We also chatted with the head and lead brewers about their brewing philosophies, their core and seasonal offerings, how they distribute their beer, and some exciting barrel-aged releases coming up—including collaborations with the distillery.Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelFollow Chris on InstagramLike us on Facebook! Supported by the Brewers Association of Maryland
Transcribe →Episode 382 - Bier Bath
Apr 11, 202500:56:43Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Uncapped Podcast, we visited Bier Bath in Sykesville, Maryland, interviewing co-founders Greg and Hector. The idea for Bier Bath came from Hector's visit to a beer spa in Iceland. He and Greg, who initially considered a brewery, partnered to bring the concept to the US.The "beer bath" uses beer ingredients (hops and barley), minerals, and Epsom salt in water, not actual beer, yeast, or alcohol. Benefits include vitamin B and antioxidants good for the skin. The experience involves a soak, infrared sauna, and shower.Bier Bath features a separate spa and a large taproom with a rotating selection of nearly 100 beers, mainly from microbreweries. They have a flight club and are introducing their own house lager. Future plans include potential expansion and a take-home version of the beer bath experience; they will also be adding cocktails to their offerings.Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelFollow Chris on Instagram Like us on Facebook! Supported by the Brewers Association of Maryland
Transcribe →Episode 158 - Bar Room Blitz
Nov 27, 2019Tap to summarizeEric Kozlik,of Modern Bar Cart, and Braeden Bumpers,of McClintock Distilling, stopped by to talk about the upcoming Bar Room Blitz. This charitable bartender competition takes place on Friday, December 13th at 7pm. Eric also explained to us what his company Modern Bar Cart does. Finally, Braden filled us in on McClintock’s 3-year anniversary party, and the release of our collaboration whisky.
Transcribe →