Brewing heroes come in all shapes and sizes. Many go unsung, and it would fill a book to properly recognize them all. In this issue, we take a moment to recognize a few of the founders of our great craft and hobby with their thoughts, reflections, and brewing inspirations.

What makes your homebrew club awesome? The Hogtown Brewers won the Radegast Club of the Year Award in 2016. Past club president Ron Minkoff leads you through dozens of ideas on raising your club’s game.

While its homebrewing movement is about 15 years behind that of the U.S., Mexico is currently enjoying a surge of interest in craft brewing, exploring new styles, and making beer at home with indigenous ingredients.

Luis Gonzalez took inspiration from the great brewing traditions of Europe to found Cerveceria Hercules in Santiago de Querétaro, Mexico. He and brewer Josh Brengle are leading a new generation of craft fans and fellow brewers.

Bavarian beer hiking is the quintessential “slow food” adventure. Seasoned beer traveler Franz D. Hofer leads you over the hills and through the forests of rural Franconia for beautiful views, hearty fare, and of course, delicious Bavarian Beer

Cider, like wine, is an integral part of French culture and has a rich history. Kristen Kuchar discusses the details of its origins, and elaborates on how many traditional methods have been adopted by craft cider makers in the U.S.