All About Beer

One Iconic Beer: New Glarus Wisconsin Belgian Red

July 20, 2026·51 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

In 1993, Deb and Dan Carey released Wisconsin Belgian Red, the third beer they made at their new Wisconsin brewery, New Glarus. It was one of the country’s first “sour” ales, and it created quite a stir, and not just because it was so unusual. The Careys weren’t on a momentary flight of fancy. Rather, Dan Carey, the brewer, had been experimenting with wild ales for six years, and they intended Wisconsin Belgian Red to be a key part of their portfolio. Thirty three years later, it still is. On this episode, we’re going to hear from Jeff Sparrow and Dan Carey about how these old, almost extinct methods jumped the ocean to the United States to become an enduring part of craft brewing. No beer was more critical in developing interest in wild ales than New Glarus Wisconsin Belgian Red, and this is its story.Visit AllAboutBeer.com for more podcasts, to read original articles, and to get info on upcoming events.Click here to support independent journalism covering the beer industry.This episode is sponsored by:RahrBSGThis episode of the One Iconic Beer podcast is supported by RahrBSG – trusted supplier to brewers, distillers, and beverage makers across North America.  From the barley field to your brewhouse, we’re proud to support the people behind great beer with the ingredients, expertise, and service they depend on.  Whether you’re brewing the next great American Double IPA or crafting an award-winning continental lager, RahrbSG provides the industry’s finest quality, selection, and support. Behind every great – or even iconic – pint, there is a partner who knows what it takes to make it happen. RahrBSG is proud to keep the beer flowing with you. Escarpment LabsTired of inconsistent fermentations and off-flavors in your beer? It’s time to strike back with Yeast Lightning Nutrient from Escarpment Labs. Unlike generic nutrients, Yeast Lightning is a balanced blend containing bioavailable zinc, magnesium, and B vitamins designed specifically for beer yeast. It’s been proven to shorten fermentation times and improve final beer flavor. Plus, it helps you get more generations out of your yeast, saving you money on every batch. Whether it's a dry-hopped IPA or a crisp lager, give your yeast the fuel they actually need. Order your first pack today by emailing sales@escarpmentlabs.com. Mention the All About Beer podcast to get free shipping on your first order.Host: Jeff AlworthGuests: Dan Carey, Jeff SparrowSponsor:  Escarpment Labratories, RahrBSG, All About BeerTags: New GlarusLogo Design: Jeff QuinnThe following music was used for this media project:Lounge R&B PianoBy Music_for_videoshttps://pixabay.com/music/rnb-lounge-rampb-piano-166431/ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

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