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Monday Mar 23rd, 2026

Czech Mate!

Czech Mate!

When you brew beer for a living, it’s always important to know what’s “hot.” Right now in the brewing world, Pilsners and Lagers are in demand. Light, crisp, and low in alcohol, they are easy to drink, flavorful, and versatile.

Currently in our portfolio, we have two lagers. Me and Julio, our best-selling beer, has been with us since the very beginning. It’s a Mexican Lager (think Corona) that can be enjoyed with a slice of lime on the rim, sits at 4.2% ABV, and is probably the lightest beer we brew consistently. Last year, we collaborated with Mercyhurst University to create the Laker Lager. This sports-style lager is the perfect companion for sporting events at Erie’s D1 sports university, and in my humble opinion, is probably the best beer Kenny has brewed yet!

AND SO… it turns out Kenny brews good lagers. This spring, we decided to try out a Pilsner, a Czech Pilsner nonetheless. This bready, golden, low-ABV beer pairs beautifully with chicken dishes or pizza. While red meats tend to go better with heavier, more flavorful beers, Pilsners can truly complement almost anything. Plus, usually sitting below 5% ABV, they’re a beer you can enjoy more than one of—without needing a nap.

As we continue exploring new beer styles, we’re always excited to share our projects with you. The fun thing about one-offs and seasonals, for me, is wondering how popular they will be and how quickly they’ll sell out. This Czech Pilsner is definitely a one-off, so I encourage you to come up to the brewery and try it as soon as it’s released.

Selfishly, I love having something to entice you to make the trip up the hill, but this beer, like Stout-Standing and If You Like Piña Colada, will also be available at all of our pubs beginning in April.

Speaking of Czech! The Ireland vs. Czechia soccer game will be shown here at the brewery on March 26th at 3:45 PM. Come watch the game with us, get your stamp for an extra entry into the Ireland Trip drawing, and participate in the first-ever Russ Rally! John Russell Brewing Company and Erie Beer can’t wait to see if Ireland makes it to the World Cup and who can recognize Russ’ face on a Guinness.

Cheers to Irish Beers will be wrapping up in just a few weeks with the drawing on March 28th at the brewery! Please join us that evening for Hannah’s favorite night of the year. Have a beer, enter your passport for a chance to win, and enjoy the evening. The beer has been ordered, John, Russ, and Erie Beer are ready to announce a winner, and the staff at the brewery is anxiously awaiting your presence. We can’t wait.

More beers are being brewed every day, new food features keep popping up, and the staff at the brewery works hard to ensure you have a flavorful and friendly visit every time you come in. Thank you for choosing us time and time again—whether it’s for your company happy hour, family gathering, or just dropping in for a beer. We are always grateful and can’t wait to see you on your next visit—whenever that may be.