In a unique twist of fate, Smoldered Society, an offshoot of Community Beer Works, has emerged as one of the most talked-about new breweries in 2024. Founded by three former employees of Thin Man Brewery—Cameron Frank, Peter Cahlstadt, and Ryan Zacarchuk—the brand is distinguished by its rebellious spirit and unconventional brewing methods. This article delves into the origins of Smoldered Society, its creative philosophy, and the surprising success of its flagship beer, Strike Anywhere.

The Birth of a Brand from a Near-Disaster

In the heart of Buffalo, NY, a seemingly insignificant incident sparked the creation of Smoldered Society. Brand Manager Cameron Frank recounts a mishap where an ember from his mother's fireplace ignited a small fire on an antique ottoman while he was watching her dogs. Upon returning home to find the house filled with smoke, Frank realized how close he came to burning down the house. Years later, this near-disaster inspired the name and ethos of Smoldered Society, a brewery that thrives on creativity and unpredictability.

Frank, Cahlstadt, and Zacarchuk met at Thin Man Brewery, where they each found their niche. Frank, once a busser turned salesperson, developed a passion for beer. Zacarchuk, initially bored as a barista, discovered his calling in brewing. Cahlstadt, an art school dropout, channeled his artistic flair into marketing and design. When Community Beer Works acquired Thin Man, it offered the trio the opportunity to launch Smoldered Society using an unused seven-barrel tank space.

An Artistic Approach to Brewing

Smoldered Society's approach to brewing is as unconventional as its origin story. The brewery's aesthetic is reminiscent of underground raves, with labels featuring quirky illustrations like dancing skeletons and three-eyed monsters. Head Brewer Zacarchuk pushes the boundaries of flavor profiles, creating beers that evoke childhood memories or challenge traditional tastes. One such creation, Weaponized Incompetence, mimics the flavors of ambrosia salad—a dish often brought to Midwest parties—using hops and marshmallow powder.

However, not all of Smoldered Society's offerings are bold and experimental. Their pilsner, Strike Anywhere, has become the brewery's crown jewel. This Czech-American lager blend, infused with corn for a distinctly American touch, is surprisingly drinkable and has garnered widespread acclaim. Brewed in a twenty-barrel system, Strike Anywhere represents a balance between tradition and innovation, embodying the brand's core values.

A Philosophy of Creativity and Fun

At Smoldered Society, creativity is king. The team embraces a "fed-up garage punk" style, where hand-drawn illustrations and whimsical designs dominate their branding. Cahlstadt's doodles, which he likens to classroom sketches, bring a raw, authentic feel to the brewery's identity. This unapologetic approach has resonated with consumers, making Smoldered Society stand out in a crowded market.

The trio's ultimate goal is to push boundaries continually. Whether through extreme hopping rates or taproom exclusives, they aim to create experiences that leave a lasting impression. As they look toward opening a taproom, Smoldered Society remains committed to its rebellious roots, ensuring that every sip tells a story.

From a smoldering ember to a thriving brewery, Smoldered Society exemplifies how even the smallest sparks can ignite something extraordinary. Its success lies not just in its innovative brews but in the unwavering passion and creativity of its founders. Where there's smoke, there's indeed Smoldered Society.