In an innovative brewing collaboration, the teams from Hold Out and Live Oak breweries in Austin have created a unique American pilsner that incorporates potato starch flour. This special brew, affectionately dubbed "the king of tater beers," has garnered both local acclaim and national recognition. The beer, known as Spudweiser, recently earned a bronze medal at the 2024 Great American Beer Festival in the Collaboration category. Fans can taste this distinctive creation during the second annual Pinvitational festival in Austin, where it will be served alongside other cask-conditioned ales and lagers from over 40 breweries.

The concept for Spudweiser originated from the creative minds at Hold Out and Live Oak, who sought to push the boundaries of traditional brewing techniques. Brent Sapstead, the director of brewing at Hold Out, shared insights into the development process. By integrating potato starch flour into the recipe, the brewers aimed to introduce a subtle earthiness while maintaining the crisp, refreshing qualities characteristic of an American pilsner. The result is a well-balanced beer with a slightly higher body than typical pilsners, offering a unique twist on a classic style.

The success of Spudweiser extends beyond its innovative ingredients. The beer's popularity has grown steadily since its introduction, earning praise not only from local enthusiasts but also from industry professionals. The accolades culminated in a bronze medal win at the prestigious Great American Beer Festival, solidifying its place in the brewing community. This achievement highlights the collaborative spirit between Hold Out and Live Oak, demonstrating how combining different perspectives can lead to groundbreaking results.

Looking ahead, Spudweiser will feature prominently at the upcoming Pinvitational festival in Austin. Scheduled for March 1st, this event brings together a diverse array of craft breweries, including Acopon Brewing from Dripping Springs, Texas, and Dutchess Ales from Wassaic, New York. Attendees will have the opportunity to sample Spudweiser alongside a wide selection of cask-conditioned beverages, celebrating the rich diversity of craft brewing. Tickets for the festival are now available, promising an unforgettable experience for beer aficionados.

Beyond its flavor profile, Spudweiser represents a milestone in collaborative brewing. The fusion of unconventional ingredients with traditional brewing methods showcases the potential for innovation within the craft beer industry. As Hold Out and Live Oak continue to explore new frontiers in brewing, they invite beer lovers to join them on this exciting journey, tasting the fruits of their creative labor at events like the Pinvitational. This partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration and the endless possibilities it brings to the world of craft beer.