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S1, E91: Head Brewmaster, Mountain West Cider - Marcio Buffolo

Episode 91 of the Small Lake City podcast, hosted by Erik Nilsson, titled "S1, E91: Head Brewmaster, Mountain West Cider - Marcio Buffolo" was published on July 12, 2025 and runs 65 minutes.

July 12, 2025 ·65m · Small Lake City

0:00 / 0:00

Summary

When Marcio Buffolo arrived in Salt Lake City from Brazil, a career making alcohol wasn't part of his plan. With a master's degree in cell biology, he followed his scientist wife to Utah where he worked in university research. But a chance opportunity to solve contamination problems at Shades Brewing changed everything. Marcio's scientific background proved invaluable as he built a quality control lab, identified bacterial culprits, and eventually took over as head brewer when his predecessor...

Episode Description

When Marcio Buffolo arrived in Salt Lake City from Brazil, a career making alcohol wasn't part of his plan. With a master's degree in cell biology, he followed his scientist wife to Utah where he worked in university research. But a chance opportunity to solve contamination problems at Shades Brewing changed everything. Marcio's scientific background proved invaluable as he built a quality control lab, identified bacterial culprits, and eventually took over as head brewer when his predecessor unexpectedly departed.

The pandemic transformed Marcio's brewing approach. With taprooms closed and distribution channels disrupted, he pioneered an ambitious strategy: creating a new beer flavor every single week for eighteen months straight. From pie-inspired concoctions to savory experiments like jalapeno popper and spaghetti dinner beers, this creative explosion earned Shades three World Beer Cup medals—the pinnacle of brewing recognition.

Despite this success, Marcio found himself yearning for change. Industry pressures, inflation concerns, and shifting consumer preferences left him questioning his future. That's when Mountain West Cider entered the picture. Though initially unfamiliar with craft cider (despite unknowingly drinking it during Brazilian Christmas celebrations), Marcio discovered a beverage category that perfectly balanced his scientific mindset with creative possibilities.

Now as head cidermaker at Mountain West, he's applying his experimental approach to a new medium—crafting everything from traditional single-varietal ciders aged for months to playful innovations like Bloody Mary cider. He recently earned his Pommelier certification (cider's equivalent to a sommelier) and delights in educating visitors about cider's surprising complexity and diverse styles.

Ready to experience Marcio's craft firsthand? Visit Mountain West's garden in the Marmalade District, where you'll find live music, events, and newly added food options alongside an impressive range of craft beverages. As Mountain West celebrates its 10th anniversary, there's never been a better time to discover how science and creativity converge in every glass.

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