THE WAKKER WEEKLY – Issue #1771
Issue #1771 – Posted on: 03 – Jan – 2025
BUSHWAKKER SEASONAL SUDS STATUS. Bushwakker head brewer, Michael Gaetz, reports our seasonally available MISSILETOW CHRISTMAS ALE, 30TH ANNIVERSARY BLACKBERRY MEAD, MORK’S MEAD, POWERHOUSE PORTER, TREPHINATION IMPERIAL IPA and BREW & GOLD DORTMUNTER EXPORT LAGER are currently available. There are also batches of PICKARD’S OATMEAL CREAM STOUT, KAI’S MUNICH HELLES, JUST CHERRY ALE and DOUBLE HONEY RED ALE currently working their way through the brewery.
This WEEKEND’S SPECIAL DINING FEATURE for Jan. 3rd & 4th is TOMAHAWK PORK CHOP DINNER. Our Saturday CLASSIC STEAK & A PINT SPECIAL as well as our Monday and Wednesday WINGS & A PINT SPECIAL and Tuesday PIZZA & A PINT SPECIAL are also great value deals.
JANUARY PREMIUM WINE FEATURES: This month’s wine features are the MIRAFLORES wines from Chile. The red is a CABERNET SAUVIGNON and the white is a SAUVIGNON BLANC. Both are post-holiday season priced at only $7.95 for a glass and $21.95 for a half litre.

The nice thing about offering two meads this season is there is plenty to go around. Yes, be sure to sip in 2025 this January with our 30th Anniversary Blackberry Mead or our original Mork’s Mead which was first introduced over 30 years ago!

Our Bushwakker & Robbie Burns Combined Birthday Bash is coming up on Saturday, January 25th. Many folks comment that no one would ever want to buy the stuff so we give it away instead! Enjoy FREE HAGGIS, neeps and birthday cake with live Celtic music, Highland dancing, a pipes & drums performance and a special Scottish firkin tapping too! 5:30 PM. $5 cover charge in effect.
UPCOMING EVENTS

Jan. 3: FIRST FIRKIN FRIDAY. Kick off your new year with this longstanding Bushwakker monthly tradition! A piper from The Regina Police Services Pipes & Drums leads a keg (the firkin) of special ale throughout the pub in a procession. A guest volunteer tapper is selected to wield the handmade wooden maul affectionately named, The Mighty Firkin Wakker, and attempts to tap the keg in one mighty blow! We’re kicking off 2025 with a “bang” and have created a ROBUST ROBERTSON SUPER STRONG! This is a special blend of our English Barleywine with Laphroaig single malt scotch and toasted oak infused-Palliser Porter. The suds-soaking spectacular takes place at 5:30 PM.

Jan. 6: Monday Night Jazz & Blues. THE CAMPBELL COMBO COLLECTIVE. A brand new, youthful year calls for a brand new, youthful band. Enjoy swing, Latin and funk. Don’t miss their Bushwakker debut! 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.

Jan. 8: MONTHLY ALES CLUB MEETING. Perhaps Santa brought you a home brewing kit and now you need to know how to master it. If you are interested in delving into the world of homebrewing or are just looking to brush up on your brewing skills then the ALES Club is for you! The January presentation topics include PALE ALES & IPAS as well as a little bit of WATER CHEMISTRY! Come to the Bushwakker basement clubroom at 7:00 PM and discover what the ALES Club can offer you. New members are always welcome!

Jan. 8: Wednesday Folk Night. SIX STRING KINGS. Talented stringed trio returns for an encore performance! 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
Bushwakker Easter Egg. Did you know The Bushwakker and Robbie Burns share the same January 25th birthday? Be the first person to tell bar manager Grant you think free haggis is the best marketing idea in the world and you just may win a free piece of cheesecake!
Beer Trends In 2025: Exploring the Future of Craft Brewing

Beer trends are constantly evolving, and it’s no surprise that the craft beer industry is booming. As we approach 2025, experts predict that the future of craft brewing will be shaped by several key trends.
This article will focus on exploring beer trends in 2025 and how they will impact the craft beer industry as a whole. From new flavors to sustainability efforts, here are some of the top trends to look out for in the coming years.
New Flavors and Ingredients
Brewers are embracing innovative new flavors and ingredients to captivate their audience. With a process based on beverage analytics, breweries are taking a scientific approach to creating new and unique flavors. Expect to see more experimental brews on tap, as well as collaborations with other industries such as coffee roasters or distilleries.
In addition, there will be an increase in the use of alternative ingredients such as fruits, spices, and herbs. This not only adds variety to the craft beer market but also caters to consumers who are looking for healthier options.
Embracing Technology
Technology is playing a major role in shaping the future of craft brewing. From automated systems that aid in production to social media platforms that help with marketing, technology is streamlining processes and making it easier for brewers to connect with their customers.
In the coming years, we can expect to see even more advancements in technology being integrated into the craft beer industry, including virtual reality experiences and online ordering systems. For example, virtual reality can be used to give customers a 360-degree view of the brewery and its production process, providing a unique and immersive experience.
Sustainability Efforts
As consumers become more environmentally conscious, breweries are taking steps towards sustainability. This includes using renewable energy sources, implementing eco-friendly packaging, and reducing water waste in the brewing process.
In 2025, we can expect to see even more sustainable practices being adopted by craft breweries, as they prioritize minimizing their environmental impact. For example, some breweries may start using locally-sourced ingredients to reduce carbon emissions from transportation.
Rise of Low-ABV and Non-Alcoholic Options
With health-conscious consumers on the rise, there has been a significant and growing demand for low-alcohol and non-alcoholic beer options among a diverse demographic.
In response to this trend, craft breweries are increasingly experimenting with innovative alternative brewing methods and unique ingredients to create flavorful low-alcohol and non-alcoholic options that do not compromise on taste.
These breweries are exploring a variety of techniques, such as removing alcohol after fermentation or using special yeasts that naturally produce lower alcohol levels, to craft beverages that appeal to both casual drinkers and those seeking healthier choices.
This trend is expected to continue gaining momentum in the coming years, with more breweries recognizing the opportunity to cater to this market by offering a wider range of appealing options for individuals looking for a lighter or entirely alcohol-free alternative, all while maintaining the quality and character that craft beer enthusiasts have come to love.
Inclusivity and Diversity
The craft beer trend has traditionally been dominated by white male brewers and consumers. However, there is a growing movement towards inclusivity and diversity within the industry. More women and people of color are entering the craft beer scene as brewers, owners, and consumers.
Breweries are also making efforts to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all customers, regardless of their background or identity. This includes offering diverse beer styles that cater to different tastes and preferences. Also, some breweries are partnering with local organizations to support underrepresented groups in the community.
Community Involvement
Craft breweries have always been known for their close-knit communities, and this will continue to be a prominent aspect in the future. In fact, we can expect to see even more involvement and support from local communities as craft brewing becomes increasingly popular.
Breweries will continue to host events such as beer festivals and community fundraisers, bringing people together and supporting local businesses. This sense of community not only strengthens relationships between breweries and their customers but also contributes to the growth of the industry as a whole.
Additionally, craft breweries often prioritize sustainability and giving back to their communities. Many breweries source ingredients locally, reducing their carbon footprint and supporting local farmers. They also participate in charitable initiatives and donate a portion of their profits to causes they believe in.
Experimentation and Innovation
One of the most exciting aspects of the craft beer industry is its constant experimentation and innovation. Craft brewers are always pushing the boundaries with new flavors, styles, and brewing techniques. This not only keeps consumers intrigued but also challenges traditional ideas of what beer should be.
In the future, we can expect to see even more creativity and boundary-pushing from craft breweries as they continue to evolve and grow. From using unique ingredients like fruits, spices, and even flowers, to experimenting with barrel-aging and wild yeast strains, the possibilities are endless. This experimentation not only keeps beer lovers on their toes but also encourages other brewers to push themselves creatively.
Wrapping Up
Craft beer has come a long way and will continue to thrive in the future thanks to its loyal community, dedication to sustainability, and constant innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer enthusiast or just discovering the world of small-batch brewing, there’s always something new and exciting to explore. So next time you’re looking for a refreshing and flavorful beer, be sure to grab a craft brew and support the growth of this thriving industry.
TIME OUT – Plausible New Year Resolutions
My resolution to eat healthier lasted about as long as it takes to microwave a pizza.
I’m on a whiskey diet; I’ve lost three days already.
I’ve finally found the key to a successful New Year’s resolution, lower your expectations.
My gym resolution is straightforward, befriend someone who already goes; social fitness is still fitness, right?
I’m not dieting this year; I’m just adjusting my inner-tube, it’s all about self-love.
My resolution was to read more; now, I turn on subtitles when I watch TV.
New Year’s resolutions are like fruitcakes, nobody wants them, but they keep showing up at holiday parties.
The only exercise I’ll be doing this year is running late, fashionably, of course.
My resolution is to be more optimistic; but who am I kidding, that’ll never happen, it’s just wishful thinking.
I’m not dieting this year; I’m just embracing my love for horizontal life enrichment.
New Year’s resolutions are like babies, fun to make but difficult to maintain.

Resolve to be flexible with your New Year resolutions this year. Find what works for you !




