From April 20–22, the energy in Philadelphia was unmistakable as thousands of brewers, suppliers, innovators, and industry leaders descended on the city for CBC. For Briess Malt & Ingredients, it was more than just another trade show. It was a celebration of craftsmanship, collaboration, and the connections that drive the craft brewing community forward. CBC is always an unforgettable week, and the vibes were even better this year based on recent positive reports about craft beer sales at retail and in taprooms during the first four months of 2026.
Between a busy booth + taproom pouring four exceptional beers each day, countless meaningful conversations with brewers, and a packed Tuesday night after-party at Other Half Brewing, Briess’ 2026 CBC experience was nothing short of amazing. Add in a one-of-a-kind collaboration beer brewed with Briess’ Heritage Gold™ Malt, and the week became a perfect expression of everything Briess stands for: tradition, quality, innovation, and partnerships that matter.
Briess’ 150th Anniversary
CBC is always a highlight on the brewing calendar, but there was something electric about Philadelphia. With its deep brewing heritage and thriving modern beer scene, the city offered an ideal backdrop for conversations about beer’s future.
This year’s CBC was extra special for Briess because it coincides with our 150th Anniversary. When the modern craft brewing movement began to take shape in the early 1980s, and there were no other options, Briess was there, supplying 50-pound bags of base and specialty malts to some of the pioneers who helped define what American craft beer would become. Briess’ dedication to quality, spirit of innovation, and commitment to supporting our customers is stronger than ever.
Amazing Beers, Meaningful Conversations
One of the biggest highlights of CBC week was Briess’ taproom, which poured four outstanding beers throughout the conference. Each beer was intentionally selected to showcase the quality, versatility, and flavor contributions of Briess malts—sparking conversations with brewers about recipe design, malt selection, and sensory impact.
We were grateful to the brewers who brewed those special beers stopping by our booth to celebrate their beer on tap and the awesome craft brewing community that we’re privileged to be part of.
Epic After Party
If the conference floor was where ideas were exchanged, Tuesday night was where the community truly came together to celebrate. Briess proudly co-hosted an unforgettable after-party with Yakima Chief Hops, Yakima Chief Ranches, and NZ Hops at Other Half Brewing, one of Philadelphia’s most respected and creative breweries. The venue was perfect, equal parts industrial cool and an atmosphere that invited conversation, celebration, and, of course, incredible beers.
At the heart of the after-party was a unique collab beer, brewed by Other Half and Briess specifically for the occasion, and featuring Briess’ Heritage GoldTM Base Malt. It’s one of the newest malts from Briess and brings the character of an English Ale Malt using a traditional malting process, including five days in germination. The barley is an heirloom variety grown in the Bighorn Basin of Wyoming and Montana, and then malted at Briess’ plant in Manitowoc, WI. It delivers complex bread character, with notes of honey, biscuit, and floral.
Looking Toward the Future
As the Craft Brewers Conference came to a close, Briess left Philadelphia energized, inspired, and deeply grateful. The connections made, beers shared, and ideas exchanged reinforced why Briess has remained committed to craft brewers for decades, and why that commitment will continue long into the future. We’re proud to be part of your process, your recipes, and your success stories. We’re already looking forward to San Antonio!
Cheers from all of us at Briess!