Top Michigan Craft Beer Trends to Watch in 2020

‘Spirits of Detroit’ columnist Brian Manzullo shares the latest news in Michigan’s craft alcohol industry.

Detroit Free Press columnist Brian Manzullo says he has his eye on five state breweries that are expected to grow significantly this year, including Ascension Brewing Co.

The Novi brewery had a huge hit at last year’s Summer Beer Festival with their Gorilla Juice Stout series. 

“There’s a lot of hype around this beer with craft beer enthusiasts…. [Ascension Brewing Co.] really hit the mark in terms of a nice balance.” – Brian Manzullo, Detroit Free Press


Click on the player above to hear Brian Manzullo on Michigan’s craft beer. In this conversation: 

  • Growing breweries, include Eastern Market Brewing. 

  • Brew Detroit’s Cold Brew, a coffee-based stout, is returning next year.

  • Old Nation Brewing, famous for its M-43, expects fans to love their new low-carb B-43 IPA.


In other state brewery news, legislation in the Michigan House could help the state’s craft breweries get more of their product on store shelves and on tap at your local bar

“I think what’s significant here is that Michigan has the lowest limit in terms of self-distribution compared to other Midwestern states,” says Manzullo. 

Currently, state brewers are limited to 1,000 barrels per year in Michigan. Manzullo says that includes delivering to stores, taprooms, and restaurants.

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Author

  • Amanda LeClaire is an award-winning host and producer of CultureShift on 101.9 WDET-FM Detroit’s NPR station. She’s a founding producer of WDET’s flagship news talk show Detroit Today, and a former host/reporter for Arizona Public Media. Amanda is also an artist, certified intuitive and energy healer, and professional tarot reader.