Global tariffs have me worried—not just for craft beer prices, but for the U.S. craft beer industry as a whole. Let’s dig into the brewing storm:
Beer Marketer’s Insights reports: “Trump administration slapping 25% tariffs on canned beer imports and empty can imports from across the globe.” You may be thinking: I don’t drink much imported beer in cans… or What would I do with an imported empty can?
Well, most aluminum cans used by U.S. craft breweries come from Canada, China, and Mexico—and they’re what your favorite local breweries use to package your go-to beverages. Think you’re safe with draft? Think again. According to Convenience.org: “Nearly all steel kegs used by U.S. brewers are made in Germany, so a tariff on finished steel products raises the cost of kegs.”
Craft beer expert Em Sauter warns that hops from Australia and New Zealand are becoming more expensive—directly impacting IPA prices. And Washington Beer Blog adds that retaliatory tariffs could make U.S.-grown hops more expensive for international buyers.
WTOP News in Washington, D.C. shared this from Port City Brewing Company: “We use a specific strain of barley from Canada. Because of tariffs, we may have to raise the price of a six-pack from $12.99 to $18.99.”
Higher costs for cans, kegs, hops, and barley equals higher prices for beer lovers. There is a small silver lining: tariffs could lead to more people supporting domestic craft beer instead of imports. But will consumers accept the price hike?
I’m not an economist, but if craft beer is any indication, the ripple effect on small U.S. businesses could be huge.
And let’s not forget that iconic "Ferris Bueller’s Day Off" classroom scene, referencing the Hawley-Smoot Tariff Act of 1930:
“Did it work? Anyone? Anyone? Bueller? … No, it did not work.”
#HandsOffOurCraftBeer
To lift the mood, a trio of us Culture Hounds took a Sunday trip to Beacon, NY, and discovered a standout stop: Draught Industries, 394 Main St., in Beacon (845-440-8682 or draughtindustries.com).
Owner Greg Colon fell in love with Magic Hat #9 and homebrewing—and opened Draught in 2016.
“My late father told me there’s no loyalty in big companies,” Greg said. “When I saw that was true, I jumped at this opportunity. Business has been excellent for eight years.”
This spot has serious character. A former alley transformed into a cozy craft bar with high ceilings, exposed brick and rotating local art. Add in funky indie music (Modest Mouse, Decemberists), long high-top tables, and a friendly communal vibe.
“Our clientele is all different,” Greg said. “Mainly locals, folks from around the tri-state area, and beer fans traveling for the special taps.”
Their motto says it all: “Some People Collect Art. We Drink It!”
Draught runs 20 tap lines, offering something for every beer style and preference.
Our picks from the visit:
Old Glenham Cask Dog Daze Red Ale – creamy and smooth
Schilling Modernism – Czech dark lager with roasty undertones
Trillium Mettle – juicy DIPA delight
Bonus for Back to the Future fans: Draught’s tap system is a Flux Capacitor—a rare setup that calibrates gas pressure per line. Think nitrogen for stouts, more CO2 for Belgian ales. Science!
Authentic Mexican fare that hits all the right notes.
Highlights: spicy chorizo tacos, rice and beans, and a guac with just the right kick. Everything paired beautifully with the beer list.
New Bar & Grill Alert: Wogies is coming to Katonah. Stay tuned for more on that.
The Katonah Beer Man can be reached at TheKatonahBeerMan@gmail.com or visit thekatonahbeerman.wordpress.com.
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