What if the future of beer looks less experimental — but also more thoughtful, more intentional, and more serious — than it has in years?

In this special forecasting episode, Mark and Richard channel “Yeastrodomus” to predict the biggest brewing and culture shifts coming in 2026. From beer trends to consumer behaviour to brewing philosophy, we explore why the next wave of craft isn’t about novelty… but about mastery, experience, balance, and brand coherence.

We dive into:

• Why the industry is shifting from constant reinvention to better-over-new

• How the experience economy’s return will reshape taprooms

• The rise of fruit beers that aren’t sours (finally!)

• Why pasteurization is no longer a dirty word in craft

• The growth of staff-led side brands

• The visual language of animal beers, celeb beers, and semiotics on shelves

• The growing movement toward genre-less beer

• And why English pub vibes and session culture are coming back strong

2026 won’t be boring — but it may be quieter, smarter, and more delicious than the last decade of hype cycles. Let’s look ahead.