Archives for June 2021

Kihei, Hawaii – Just in time for summer, Maui Brewing Company is re-launching their light, crisp Mexican-style Lager, Maui Lime Lager. The beer is brewed with local limes, offering notes of fresh citrus and is perfect for these upcoming warm months.

Brewer Mike Petker says, “With summer upon us, we created the perfect beverage that will quench your thirst. This brew is a crafty Mexican Lager with a hint of lime zest on the back end. Maui Lime Lager can be enjoyed whether you are just hanging out crushing it on the beach or paired well with fresh tri-tip off the barbeque.”

Light gold to straw in appearance, Maui Lime Lager is brewed with Motueka, Tettnag and Magnum hops with Pilsner, Vienna and Flaked Corn malts. With an ABV of 4.6% and 20 IBUs, it offers high satisfaction with less alcohol by volume.

While the brewery’s Kihei restaurant is offering the first to-go packages, all MBC locations in Lahaina, Kailua, and Waikiki, as well as other MBC retail and restaurant partners will receive a supply in the upcoming weeks. It will be available in 6-pack cans and draft in all markets where independently owned Maui Brewing Company craft beer can be found.MBC is a fiercely local company and has remained steadfast regarding local production. The MBC team are stewards of their communities and the ‘aina, and curators of the craft beer way of life. Their beers have been recognized worldwide for quality and innovation.

About Maui Brewing Company

Founded in 2005, Maui Brewing Company is Hawaii’s largest craft brewery, operating 100% in Hawaii. MBC is based on Maui, with its production brewery, full service restaurant and tasting room in Kihei, as well as restaurants in Lahaina (Maui), Kailua (Oahu), and Waikiki (Oahu). Maui Brewing Company is available in 20 states, 1 district, and 3 international countries with more areas to follow.

For More Information:
https://mauibrewingco.com

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COLUMBUS, Ohio – The member breweries of the Ohio Craft Brewers Association elected six representatives to the eleven-member board of directors. Alan Szuter of Wolf’s Ridge Brewing in Columbus was chosen by the association’s members to succeed Seventh Son Brewing’s Collin Castore as board president. Szuter was appointed to the board in 2018 and subsequently elected to a full two-year term the following summer.

“Like a lot of Ohio craft breweries, we joined the Ohio Craft Brewers Association very soon after we opened,” Szuter remarked. “At every stage of our growth and development, the OCBA has been instrumental in supporting us, from helping us get exposure to customers, navigate regulatory questions, find local suppliers, provide educational opportunities for our team, and in myriad other ways. I look forward to continuing growing and evolving the OCBA to meet the needs of the incredible Ohio craft brewing industry.”

Szuter will become the Ohio Craft Brewers Association’s fifth president since its founding in 2007, following Castore, Chris Alltmont of Fat Head’s Brewery, Eric Bean of Columbus Brewing Company and John Najeway of Thirsty Dog Brewing. Castore is term-limited after serving on the board for six years, the last four as president.

“We have proven that when we unite – through effective advocacy, through effective fundraising, through effective messaging – when we listen to each other and when we speak with a unified voice, we can change things,” Castore said in remarks to Ohio Craft Brewers Association members earlier this month. “Both our new and returning board members are creative, intelligent, compassionate and thoughtful. I am 100% confident that their new ideas and fresh thoughts will continue Ohio craft beer’s progress in years to come.”

Upon assuming the president’s seat on the board, Szuter will take over Castore’s duties as a public advocate for the Ohio craft brewing industry, in addition to leading the board’s work behind the scenes.

“I’d also like to thank Collin Castore for his years of selfless service,” Szuter said. “Collin’s thoughtful and considered approach has set an example, and I’ve come to view him as an inspiration and a true friend. We wish him good luck and continued success.”

Down the ballot, Garrett Hickey of Streetside Brewery was re-elected for his second full term and will again serve as board secretary. Fifty West Brewing Company’s Bobby Slattery was re-elected to his current at-large seat, his second term on the board of directors.

Three new board members were elected for the first time and will be seated on the board in August: Melissa Dallas of Upside Brewing in Sylvania, Carmone Macfarlane of The Phoenix Brewing Company in Mansfield and Chris Shields of Rhinegeist in Cincinnati.

Each of the six elected members of the board of directors will serve a two-year term expiring in August 2023.

Founded in 2007, the Ohio Craft Brewers Association is a nonprofit guild that exists to promote, preserve, diversify and unify Ohio’s craft brewing industry. We aspire to be recognized as the industry leader at both state and national levels for preserving the art of making high-quality, unique craft beer; to serve as the unified voice for craft brewers across the state; to advocate on behalf of the Ohio craft beer industry; to contribute to systemic, local community development by driving economic and job growth, while creating experiences that bring people together; to promote safe, responsible enjoyment of Ohio craft beer; and to serve as a beacon for local production and manufacturing through craft beer, resulting in diverse choices for consumers.

For More Information:
https://ohiocraftbeer.org

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Boonville Calif. – Anderson Valley Brewing Company (AVBC) today announced its expanded distribution partnership with North Bay’s Eagle Distributing. Initially bringing Eagle Distributing on board in May 2020 to distribute AVBC in Mendocino and Lake Counties, Eagle Distributing has now added Sonoma and Marin Counties.

After a successful year focusing on availability and awareness in its home markets, along with a rebranding, AVBC developed a strong synergy with the team at Eagle Distributing, who is based less than 30 miles from AVBC’s Boonville taproom and brewery. Eagle Distributing will now handle distribution for AVBC in the “home market” territories of Marin, Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties in Northern California.

“After a significant repositioning in 2020 in our most important California markets, moving distribution in these critical markets to Eagle Distributing was a natural progression for AVBC,” said President and CEO Kevin McGee. “Working with Eagle in Mendocino and Lake Counties over the past year has been great and it became clear that the team at Eagle is a great fit for us. We’re really excited to be able to expand our relationship by adding the Sonoma and Marin markets to their territory.”

About Anderson Valley Brewing Company

For over 32 years, Anderson Valley Brewing Company has sustainably hand-crafted authentic ales and lagers with balance and complexity. Founded in 1987 in the lower level of Boonville CA’s Buckhorn Saloon, Anderson Valley Brewing Company has grown to be widely recognized as one of the true pioneers in craft brewing. From the flagship Boont Amber Ale to innovative seasonal offerings like the Blood Orange Gose, every Anderson Valley Brewing Company beer is crafted with purpose and an unwavering commitment to producing world-class beer. Anderson Valley Brewing Company is available in 39 states and at its Taproom in Boonville, CA.

For More Information:
https://avbc.com

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Hood River, Oregon – Fresh from Full Sail Brewing Co. is a new, seasonal brew in their Strong Current Double IPA Series, Lazy Summer Haze, just in time for summer days on the river, the mountain, or in your own backyard.

Syrupy and bitter Double IPA? Heck No! “Our goal was a distinctly tropical DIPA that drinks like a pale – I think we hit it”, says Full Sail Brewmaster Greg Doss. “It’s spectacularly smooth and crushable at 8.5%.” Oats, Wheat and 2 Row malt are fermented with our proprietary yeast culture creating the perfect hazy base for our hop additions. A big charge of Sabro hops adds hints coconut and tangerine. We followed that with additions of Mosaic and Ekuanot hops to layer subtle but complex notes of citrus, mango and melon.

Our Strong Current Series celebrates our sense of place where we’re constantly inspired by the great outdoors and the environment that provide amazing recreation and one of our most treasured natural resources, the pure water that flows from the springs on Mt. Hood to our brewery and beyond. Like summer, this seasonal brew won’t last, so get out there, drink up, and have some fun. Available June – September in 4-packs of 16 oz cans and limited draft. ABV 8.5%, 35 IBUs.

Up next in the Strong Current series will be the Full Sail favorite Wreck the Halls bringing hoppy holidays to all, October to December.

About Full Sail Brewing Company

Perched on a bluff in Hood River, Oregon, overlooking the mighty Columbia River’s epic wind and kite surfing and the snow-capped volcanic peak of Mt. Hood, Full Sail is a true craft-brewing pioneer. Since 1987, Full Sail has been pouring pure Mt. Hood water, local ingredients and responsible processes into each and every pint. Full Sail’s brews and sustainable practices have garnered more than 300 national and international awards, including more than 200 gold medals and Beverage World’s “Craft Brewer of the Year” distinction. From Full Sail Amber and IPA to Session Lager and bourbon barrel-aged beers, Full Sail consistently strives to brew complex, balanced and ridiculously tasty beers.

For More Information:
https://fullsailbrewing.com/summer-days-call-for-hazy-ipas/

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SACRAMENTO, Calif. – California breweries are kicking off a special statewide collaboration brew to benefit the California Craft Brewers Association (CCBA), the non-profit trade organization representing the craft and specialty brewing industry in California.

“As we pull through the pandemic and look forward, CCBA is launching a celebratory and unifying beer that any CCBA member can brew to continue to tell the story of craft beer across the state of CA and fundraise for the association.” said Lori Ajax, Executive Director of the CCBA.

Participating breweries will be creating their own recipe and choosing their own beer style to brew.

“As long-time members, supporters and a former Board Member of the CCBA, Vinnie and I are excited and honored to be brewing this special beer for the best craft beer trade association in the country!” said Natalie Cilurzo, co-owner of Russian River Brewing. “The California craft beer scene would not be what it is today without the tireless and proactive efforts of the CCBA. We love brewing fundraiser beers and this one checks all the right boxes, too. Our CCBA Collaboration brew is an IPA which will be available late July!”

Formed in 1989, the CCBA is the oldest state trade association representing craft breweries. CCBA has primarily funded its mission with funds derived from membership dues and large-scale industry and consumer events. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, CCBA was forced to cancel numerous conferences and the annual CA Craft Beer Summit in both 2020 and 2021.

“The CCBA provides a foundation that California Craft Breweries can build upon, and provides a legislative moat protecting our rights and privileges.” said Lynne Weaver, founder of Three Weavers Brewing Company and Board Chair of the CCBA. “Decades of legislative leadership positioned the CCBA to act swiftly and to successfully push legislation that assisted California Craft Breweries during the pandemic. It’s an honor to support the CCBA in this fundraising brew, allowing the CCBA to continue their good work for our industry. Three Weavers is excited to brew a Pale Ale for our CCBA Collaboration brew.”

CCBA Brewers Collaboration fundraiser was made possible through the generous support of CCBA allied trade members including Crosby Hops, The County Malt Group Custom Label, and Vessel Packaging who donated ingredients and discounted services for the project.

CCBA Brewers Collaboration beer will be available in packaged beer at participating brewery locations throughout the state beginning in mid-July and throughout the summer and early fall.

About California Craft Brewers Association

The California Craft Brewers Association (CCBA) is a 501(c)6 non-profit trade association representing the craft and specialty brewing industry in California. Formed in 1989, the CCBA is the oldest state trade association representing craft breweries. The CCBA is committed to protecting the growth, quality and variety of California’s craft brewing industry. Revenue generated from this fundraiser will go back to protecting and preserving the craft brewing community across the Golden State.

For More Information:
https://californiacraftbeer.com

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SAN DIEGO, CA – Karl Strauss Brewing Company is celebrating the beginning of summer by debuting the latest in their acclaimed collaboration series. This brand new release is an innovative IPA brewed with their friends from Rhinegeist Brewery in Cincinnati, Ohio.

All The Peels Fruited IPA is brewed with California and Oregon sourced blood oranges (both peel and purée) for fragrant hits of citrus from beginning to end, backed by floral and resiny notes from Cascade, Crystal, Columbus, and Chinook hops.

As for Rhinegeist, the fast-growing Ohioan brewery has already made a huge impact on the Midwest craft beer scene. The Karl Strauss crew is thrilled to help further introduce this esteemed brewery to California and Arizona residents, who may be trying them for the very first time.

“We’re such fans of Rhinegeist’s beer. Everything they produce is super solid, but they’re particularly well known for their fruit-based brewing skills. We were really excited to lean into that strength, so developing a recipe for a Fruited IPA felt like a natural fit and perfect combination for both our breweries. It’s been a ton of fun collabing with their crew!”

– Paul Segura, Brewmaster, Karl Strauss Brewing Company

All the Peels Fruited IPA launches on July 1st, and will be available on draft and in 4-packs of 16oz cans at all Karl Strauss brewpub locations, as well as at select retailers throughout California and Arizona.

About Karl Strauss Brewing Company

Karl Strauss Brewing Company has been proudly independent since 1989, pioneering the craft beer scene with innovative and award-winning releases, an ongoing collaboration series with some of the nation’s most well respected breweries, and launching new exciting brands like their low calorie Sun Drops Hazy IPA.

For More Information:
https://www.karlstrauss.com/

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MILWAUKEE – After 18 months of social distancing and self-isolation, this 4th of July our country steps outside together once again to reclaim its independence. And the nation’s largest American owned brewery, Pabst Blue Ribbon, will be right there to take all of the credit.

Introducing the #1776Pack from Pabst Blue Ribbon. You’re welcome, America.

The #1776Pack will contain 1,776 Pabst Blue Ribbon beers and an infinite amount of Freedom.

“We figured the best way to honor the year America claimed its independence was to make a box that held that many beers – 1,776. It’s the least we could do. I mean beyond making our beer can red, and white, and blue. Actually 1,776 is the most we could do because 1,777 seemed excessive.” – Nick Reely, VP Marketing – Pabst Blue Ribbon

The limited-edition 1776 pack will launch on June 29th with four different partners. First, an iconic American brand whose products have been keeping drinks cold for over 70 years, Igloo Coolers. Additionally, skateboarding podcast crew The Nine Club, comedian Ali Macofsky, and Midwest emo darlings Hot Mulligan will all receive big ol’ boxes of beer. Each partner will provide content (and updates) through the Summer and into Labor Day.

Also, rats at home worry not, there’s already talks of (somehow) an even bigger box being released to the general public soon, as well as the return of the beloved 99-can pack, which is available now. Again, You’re Welcome, America.

About Pabst Blue Ribbon

Since its founding in 1844, Pabst Blue Ribbon, the original American lager beer, has been connecting with local communities across America. Pabst Blue Ribbon engages and supports individuals who are passionate about forging their own path in life, and will continue to empower new generations who believe in the future of America. Pabst Blue Ribbon is owned by Pabst Brewing Company. American-owned and operated since its founding in Milwaukee in 1844, Pabst Brewing Company is America’s largest privately held brewing company.

For More Information:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUsHl5RAnLg

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CINCINNATI – MadTree Brewing announced a $5,000 scholarship to Cincinnati State Technical & Community College’s Brewing Sciences program, starting in fall 2021 and available to apply to now. The scholarship seeks to bring more diversity to brewing and is available to demographics underrepresented in the industry, specifically women and people of color.

Nationwide, the craft brewing industry is a predominantly white, male workforce, with roughly 10% of non-brewing production staff comprised of people of color and 37% women. MadTree’s employee demographics closely follow the industry.

“We believe change comes through representation. We started with education because we wanted to be a part of systemic change. By starting at the root of an issue – like easing the financial barrier for education – we help make it easier to join the industry. And the more we diversify the brewing industry, the better we will make it,” says Rhiannon Hoeweler, Director of Strategic Impact at MadTree Brewing. “This scholarship is one way to invest in our beliefs and spark change.”

In addition to the student scholarship, MadTree is contributing a $5,000 donation to underwrite the sustainability program that is part of the school’s curriculum. The sustainability program at Cincinnati State covers solid waste reduction, water & wastewater treatment, wastewater management, sustainable design, benchmarking, and other related topics.

“We thank MadTree for their thoughtfulness and generosity in helping students in Cincinnati State’s brewing program,” said Dr. Monica Posey, president of Cincinnati State. “Investing in our students has a great return for the workforce and our region.”

Cincinnati State and MadTree have built a strong relationship, with many Cincinnati State Brewing program alumni working at the brewery, including Brittany Frey, Production Manager at MadTree. Ms. Frey sits on the board of Cincinnati’s chapter of Pink Boots Society, alongside Carla Gesell-Streeter, Program Chair of Cincinnati State’s Brewing Sciences program. Pink Boots Society exists to assist, inspire, and encourage women beer professionals through education.

“We were part of the first class that went through the brewery program and it was very competitive,” said Brittany Frey, Production Manager at MadTree. “You always wanted to do your best. We had great instructors who had been in the industry for awhile and it felt like I was getting more than I was paying for. By the time I left the program, I felt confident that I had made a good step forward.”

Danielle Sickmiller, Cellar Lead at MadTree, was a classmate of Frey’s and MadTree’s first intern in 2018. She spent a summer with the brewery’s production team gaining hands-on experience. “The staff was super-supportive and I couldn’t have asked for a better start,” said Sickmiller,. “During my co-op, I felt like there were opportunities to grow here and really I wanted to work at MadTree after getting my degree from Cincinnati State.”

Students are encouraged to apply on Cincinnati State’s website for the MadTree scholarship.

About MadTree Brewing Company

When MadTree was started 8 years ago, we were driven to craft great beer – but more importantly – to build something bigger than ourselves and the high-quality beer we produce. Since the beginning, we have cared deeply about creating meaningful connections with our communities. We embrace our name MadTree and work to celebrate and protect nature, while reducing our impact on the environment. We are proud members of 1% For The Planet, with a commitment to donate 1% of our sales to non-profits focused on environmental sustainability. The craftspeople at MadTree wake up every day to connect people to nature and each other.

We are MadTree. Inspiring Madness, Rooted in Purpose.

About Cincinnati State

Cincinnati State offers more than 140 associate degree, bachelor’s degree, and certificate programs in business technologies, health and public safety, engineering and information technologies, and humanities and sciences. Cincinnati State also offers a nationally recognized cooperative learning program and custom training through its Workforce Development Center.

For More Information:
https://www.cincinnatistate.edu/madtree-scholarship/

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Reno, NV – EnnobleBeverages, a progressive Ready-to-Drink (RTD) business with Franks Red Hot Bloody Mary ®, Tipsy Tomato Bloody Mary® along with TGIFriday’s ® canned cocktails, has added two industry veterans to their growing company. Effective June 1, Jack McCraine was appointed the President of the company along with Scott Ebert as CFO.

“We are thrilled to have Jack and Scott as part of our team,” says Erin Winczura, Chairman and Founder of Ennoble Beverages. “Their vast knowledge of the complexities of our industry – from manufacturer, distributor and retailer – gives them unique perspectives that are invaluable to our company.”

Jack McCraine’s experience includes many years at Anheuser-Busch InBev in numerous sales and marketing positions before his time at Baker Tilly U.S. where he served as their beverage practice expert. He has worked with clients from all three tiers of the beverage industry as well as other consumer goods companies, manufacturers and distributors.

When asked about his new role Jack said, “I am excited to join the Ennoble team and work alongside this group of talented professionals who are passionate about creating new beverages that address the changing consumer needs. Our distributor network is impressive, spanning more than 40 states and growing. I look forward to leveraging our collective talents between our internal team of veterans and longtime friends at our distributor partners to achieve remarkable results.”

Scott Ebert will provide financial leadership and business development strategy while helping to grow and manage Ennoble’s portfolio of brands. He has 35 years of experience managing clients and assisting them while growing their businesses.

After leaving Baker Tilly, he joined Three Floyd’s Brewing, and WarPigs Brewing USA, as their Chief Business Development and Financial Officer. In addition, he has assisted other organizations in the three-tier system across many broad categories. Scott said “I strive for success and have a driven, entrepreneurial personality. Working with Ennoble Beverages gives me the chance to put my skills to work in a fast-paced, growing industry, which I love to do.”

Ennoble Beverages looks forward to continued success with Jack and Scott leading the team.

About Ennoble Beverages

Ennoble Beverages creates, manufactures and distributes exceptional Flavored Malt Beverages and is now launching wine and cocktail drinks in the “better-for-you” category. Our female-owned beverage company was founded by Erin Winczura, a woman with a background in investment banking and a passion for innovation. Erin started her company with a single brand – Tipsy Tomato. Since then, she has brought on strong brand partners such as TGIFriday’s® and Frank’s Red Hot®. Ennoble Beverages focuses on corporate social responsibility and sustainability while creating brands that resonate with today’s varied and unique consumers.

For More Information:
https://www.ennoblebeverages.com/post/cheers-to-jack-and-scott

Fiction Beer Company and Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii are announcing the release of Talk-Song, a unique beer blending barrel-aged cold brewed coffee with an India Pale Ale instead of the more common pairing with a stout or a porter.

The creation of Talk-Song began months ago with tasting sessions of a variety of Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii’s single-origin Hawaiian coffees. Maui Red Catuai, known as the “cabernet of coffees,” was ultimately selected for its mild hint of spiciness and buttery, grapefruit subtleties that would pair well with the base IPA’s notes of citrus, chocolate and dark fruit.
Once selected, the green coffee beans were aged in bourbon barrels and rolled daily for several weeks to allow the flavors of the barrel to be absorbed before roasting. The beans were then roasted, cold brewed and added to the IPA just after fermentation. The aroma has notes of coffee and whiskey layered with citrus and the result is a complex blend of flavors with big earthy notes of citrus and vanilla, layers of chocolate and coconut with a refined coffee finish.

“When we get a chance to work with local companies that have as much passion as we do, special things can happen!” said Ryan Kilpatrick of Fiction Beer Company. “Our collab with Bad Ass Coffee is one of our most unique undertakings. Bringing together the complex characteristics of an IPA, coffee, and whiskey presented an exciting challenge. Together we were able to brew the right beer, roast the right beans, and impart just the right balance of whiskey flavor. You just have to try it; the beer is amazingly unique and tasty!”

Talk-Song will debut on Wednesday, June 30 at the Fiction Beer Company taproom at 7171 East Colfax Ave. in Denver. It will be available on draft, in 16-ounce 4 pack cans at select stores and as part of the online beer of the month subscription service called Beer Drop. People who stop by Fiction Beer Company through July 5 will have a chance to win one of several Bad Ass Coffee gift baskets featuring Maui Red Catuai and various Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii merchandise including shirts, hats and more.

Like all Fiction Beer Company brews, Talk-Song’s name has a strong connection to reading and storytelling. In this case, the name pays tribute to “Shark Dialogues,” a novel by Kiana Davenport. The book is considered a major contribution to the literature of the Pacific Rim.

“With Fiction Beer Company’s reputation as a badass brewer of nationally recognized and award-winning beers, we knew Fiction would be the perfect partner, especially when we started talking about releasing an IPA with our coffee,” said Chris Ruszkowski, vice president of marketing for Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii. “We are excited to collaborate with Fiction and show our commitment to our home market before we open our first Colorado locations.”

Under new ownership, Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii relocated its headquarters from Salt Lake City to the Denver-area mid-2020. In addition to unique collaborations like the one with Fiction Beer Company, Bad Ass Coffee is pursuing an aggressive growth strategy for its franchises with plans to open 150 new coffee shops in five years.

About Fiction Beer Company

Fiction Beer Company is a multi-award winning craft brewery in Denver, CO. Known for their lagers and IPA’s as well as a rotating selection of available styles. Fiction Beer Company can be purchased at select liquor stores in the Denver area and nationally through Beer Drop.

About Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii®

Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii was born on the Big Island in 1989 and is dedicated to sharing premium Hawaiian coffees “with a kick” through 23 franchise locations, with more to open soon. Today, Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii stores also serve popular blended drinks, teas, food, along with other international premium coffees and sell popular branded merchandise with exceptional service and the Aloha Spirit. Bad Ass Coffees are available in franchise stores, online and will soon be available through grocery, hospitality, and specialty retail channels. The Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii brand and franchise is owned by Royal Aloha Franchise Company, LLC.

For More Information:
http://www.fictionbeer.com/

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