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D.C. Craft Beer Scene Booms with Collaboration and Smoked Malts

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/03/27 .. e-booms-with-collaboration-and-smoked-malts.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, March 27th 2026 at 5:55 GMT by WTOP News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Washington D.C. - March 27th, 2026 - This week, WTOP's Beer of the Week, Bluejacket's Morning Fog Smoked Bock Lager, isn't just a delicious brew; it's a microcosm of a broader trend shaping the D.C. craft beer landscape: collaboration and the adventurous pursuit of unique flavor profiles, particularly with the increasingly popular technique of incorporating smoked malts. The limited-release beer, a partnership between Bluejacket and Right Proper Brewing Company, perfectly encapsulates the spirit of innovation currently thriving amongst local brewers.

For years, D.C.'s craft beer scene was steadily gaining traction. But the past two years have seen a notable acceleration in both quality and creativity. A key driver? Collaboration. Brewers, once often fiercely independent, are increasingly recognizing the benefits of pooling resources, expertise, and creative energies. The Morning Fog is a prime example. By combining Bluejacket's established brewing prowess with Right Proper's distinct style, they've crafted something neither could have easily achieved alone. This isn't just about shared marketing or distribution - it's about pushing boundaries and exploring new horizons in beer-making.

"We've always respected what Right Proper is doing," explains Adam Stansbury, head brewer at Bluejacket. "Their dedication to traditional techniques and quality ingredients aligns perfectly with our own philosophy. When the opportunity arose to experiment with a smoked bock, we immediately thought of collaborating with them. Their expertise in lager brewing was invaluable."

But beyond the collaborative spirit, the real star of the show is the smoked malt. Smoked malts aren't new to the craft beer world, historically prominent in styles like Rauchbier (German smoked beer), but their application is expanding rapidly. Brewers are now experimenting with various wood types - beechwood, oak, hickory, even applewood - to impart different smoky nuances to their beers. This isn't simply about adding a smoky flavor; it's about adding complexity, depth, and a unique sensory experience.

Morning Fog utilizes smoked malt to create a rich, savory profile that balances beautifully with the clean, crisp finish expected of a bock lager. The smokiness isn't overpowering; rather, it's integrated seamlessly into the beer's overall character. This is a crucial distinction. Poorly executed smoked beers can taste acrid or medicinal. The skill lies in achieving a harmonious balance, and Bluejacket and Right Proper have clearly mastered that art.

The rise in popularity of smoked beers seems to align with broader trends in food and beverage. Consumers are increasingly seeking out bold, complex flavors and are becoming more adventurous in their palates. The smoky notes pair exceptionally well with grilled foods, smoked meats, and even cheeses, making it a versatile beer for pairing. As the weather warms and outdoor gatherings become more frequent, this makes Morning Fog, and other smoked beers like it, particularly appealing.

However, the limited-release nature of Morning Fog highlights a challenge facing many small craft breweries: scaling production without compromising quality. The use of smoked malts often requires specialized equipment and a more intensive brewing process, increasing production costs. This, coupled with rising ingredient prices, means limited releases are becoming increasingly common.

Despite these challenges, the future looks bright for D.C.'s craft beer scene. Breweries are continuing to innovate, collaborate, and experiment with new flavors and techniques. Expect to see more beers featuring smoked malts, as well as other unconventional ingredients and brewing methods. The demand for unique, high-quality craft beer is strong, and D.C. breweries are well-positioned to meet that demand. Fans of Morning Fog are encouraged to visit Bluejacket's locations or select bars and restaurants before the limited supply runs out. Keep an eye out for future collaborations and releases from both Bluejacket and Right Proper - they are clearly setting the standard for creativity and quality in the District's burgeoning beer scene.