450: Stephen Boardman of 450 North Builds Intense Flavor and Nostalgic Connection With Fruit

450: Stephen Boardman of 450 North Builds Intense Flavor and Nostalgic Connection With Fruit

Author: Craft Beer & Brewing Magazine December 12, 2025 Duration: 1:14:02

From the corner of the family farm in rural Columbus, Indiana, surrounded by corn fields, 450 North has built a worldwide reputation for intensely flavored fruit beers and supersaturated smoothie sours. Stephen Boardman—now sales director as well as recipe creator and ingredient-sourcing whiz—joins the podcast to share the brewery’s unique perspective on these unapologetically assertive fruit beers.

In this episode, Boardman discusses:

  • bring a culinary background to the craft-beer space
  • the evolution of line culture and a look back at the brewery’s earlier days
  • managing scarcity with “rare” releases
  • finding inspiration through a variety of creative modes
  • the impact of salt, fat, and acid on flavor and sweetness
  • reverse-engineering food flavors with natural ingredients
  • building compelling base beers for smoothie sours
  • designing beers to hit all the senses
  • building memorable festival experiences

And more.

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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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