432: Ben Clayton of Test Approaches Brewing with a Chef’s Discipline and a Beginner’s Mind

432: Ben Clayton of Test Approaches Brewing with a Chef’s Discipline and a Beginner’s Mind

Author: Craft Beer & Brewing Magazine August 22, 2025 Duration: 1:10:56

Ben Clayton of Brooklyn’s Test honed his approach to brewing while working in the context of a Michelin-starred restaurant in New York City. Today, building a deep, meaningful supply chain for interesting ingredients animates him more than lighting up the beer-trading boards. Accolades have followed, and today he’s finding stories to tell in thoughtfully sourced grain and the novel ways he uses it in everything from Mexican-style lager to hazy IPA.

In this episode, Clayton discusses:

  • brewing Mexican-style lager with nixtamalized heirloom Oaxacan corn
  • blending floral corn notes with complementary Noble hop notes
  • using oats in multiple forms in hazy IPA
  • why hazy IPA might be the “perfect” beer style
  • tweaking pH to preserve texture, flavor, and aroma
  • promoting biodiversity in beer

And more.

This episode is brought to you by:

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There’s always more to discover in a glass of beer, whether you’re patiently tending a fermentation in your closet or just appreciate the craft behind a well-made pint. The Craft Beer & Brewing Magazine Podcast brings that curiosity to life through weekly conversations with the people who shape the industry. Instead of vague overviews, you’ll hear professional brewers and seasoned experts break down specific techniques, from water chemistry to hop selection, in a way that’s useful for both homebrewers and dedicated enthusiasts. These discussions go beyond simple tips, offering a deeper look at the evolving trends and science that influence how beer is made and enjoyed today. Tuning into this podcast feels like having a seat at a lively taproom table where the talk is always honest, detailed, and genuinely passionate about quality. It’s that blend of practical advice and broader insight that makes each episode a valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand-and savor-the art of brewing a little better.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

Craft Beer & Brewing Magazine Podcast
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