Wit’s End Brewing Co. Moves Operations and Tasting Room to Strange Craft

From Left: Scott Witsoe, Tyler Bies, Tim Myers; Photos by Colin Bridge

DENVER, CO —  Strange Craft Beer Co. and Wit’s End Brewing Co. announced their plans today to share Strange Craft’s brewhouse and tasting room on Zuni Street. The first of its kind in Denver, Strange and Wit’s End’s co-tasting room will brew and serve beers from each brand’s portfolio.

Wit’s End plans to close its current facility before the end of the year and looks to sublease the facility to an aspiring new brewery. The Wit’s End brew crew will begin brewing at Strange Craft in coming weeks. 

Wit’s End Head Brewer Tyler Bies will take over as Head Brewer of both brewing operations. These changes will allow both breweries to share resources and let Strange Craft Founder Tim Myers to focus on operations and managing the business, while Wit’s End Founder Scott Witsoe will step down from daily management to explore other endeavors.

With a bittersweet goodbye to Wit’s End’s old facility where Scott Witsoe used to brew his beers one barrel at a time comes exciting new opportunities with Strange Craft. The first is a bittersweet collaboration brew to celebrate their co-habitation, a hoppy Belgian Session Ale brewed with honey called Moving Day. It will be fermented with a blend of Strange Craft and Wit’s End’s house yeast strains. 

“The craft beer environment has changed dramatically since Strange opened in 2010 and Wit’s End opened in 2011,” says Myers. “Local neighborhood breweries need to innovate and get creative to stand out in the increasingly crowded market. I have thought for years that a shared facility solved many of these challenges. Sharing brewing facilities, staff, and rent reduces overhead significantly. Combining brew staff allows for greater recipe creativity and innovation— which we hope will lead to more satisfied patrons.”

"Tim and I already share many of our great customers, and now we can bring everyone together into one happy craft beer family,” adds Witsoe. “We will have at least four Wit’s End taps flowing at all times. And I will have a tiny corner of the brewery where I can play with recipes on a small scale.” 

After the move, Wit’s End will continue to serve its flagship beers— Jean-Claude Van Blond Belgian-style Blonde Ale, Wilford Belgian-style Oatmeal IPA, and Green Man Ale that lies somewhere between an IPA and a Red Ale— as well as rotating seasonal drafts at the new co-tasting room. Strange Craft will keep the taps flowing with its core lineup, One Barrel Wednesday brews, and an array of other experimental and collaboration beers. 

Click here for a detailed statement from Scott Witsoe about the evolution of Wit's End Brewing Co.

For more information about Strange Craft and Wit’s End’s co-tasting room and brewhouse contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com.

ABOUT STRANGE CRAFT BEER COMPANY

When Strange Craft Beer Co. opened south of Denver’s Mile High Stadium in May 2010, it was the first nanobrewery in the city brewing one barrel of beer at a time. Strange has since become a destination spot for Colorado beer drinkers, and taken home two Great American Beer Festival® medals and two World Beer Cup® awards. Visit the brewery online at strangecraft.com.

ABOUT WIT’S END BREWING COMPANY

At the dawn of the fourth wave of craft beer, Wit’s End opened its original nanobrewery in 2011 and hasn’t looked back since. Through the years Wit’s End has added some hardware on the walls including GABF® and World Beer Cup® awards, a new 7 BBL Brewhouse, and more amazing memories than it could ever hope to share. It will remain an artisanal Denver brewery that continues to be fueled by dreams and inspired by the limitless potential of craft beer… join Wit’s End on the journey! witsendbrewing.com

Asheville’s Thirsty Monk To Expand into Denver and Portland

DENVER, CO and PORTLAND, OR— Asheville, North Carolina-born Thirsty Monk, brewer of Belgian-Rooted Modern Ales and operator of world-recognized craft beer bars, announced today its expansion into Denver, Colorado and Portland, Oregon. Brian Grace, former Crooked Stave Head Brewer and Jolly Pumpkin Production Manager, has been hired as Head Brewer of the entire brewery group to assist with this growth. He will be based in Denver.

“Denver and Portland will be much more than just second homes to Thirsty Monk,” says Barry Bialik, Thirsty Monk CEO. “We will embrace the beer, food, and craft cultures in each of the cities, and operate as a true local brewery and pub. Thirsty Monk has always been about sharing beer knowledge and the European pub culture. Being in Denver and Portland will help us learn from some of the country’s best craft beer markets, and to design beers influenced by all the communities we call home.” 

Asheville brewing operations will remain under the tutelage of Norm Penn, who has been promoted to Vice President of Thirsty Monk. Thirsty Monk Downtown and Biltmore Park will continue to serve the growing selection of Thirsty Monk beers along side curated, rotating guest taps. “As our Brother Noah Belgian Chocolate Stout is brewed in Asheville using chocolate nibs from our friends at French Broad Chocolate, Brother Noah brewed in Denver will utilize a local Colorado chocolatier and Brother Noah brewed in Portland will be made with local Oregon chocolate. “Imagine that vertical tasting!” says Penn.

DENVER, COLORADO

Thirsty Monk will close on the purchase of a 12-Barrel existing brewery in Denver this month and will start immediate beer production there. Plans include a remodel of the existing taproom, slated for grand opening after Thanksgiving 2017. Head Brewer Brian Grace will be based in Denver, brewing Thirsty Monk beers and spearheading the creation of open fermentation, barrel aging and sour programs.

Brian Grace began his brewing career with Moylan’s in California before heading to Jolly Pumpkin in Michigan and then Crooked Stave in Denver. “We are so excited to have Brian join our Monk family, not just because he’s a well-respected Head Brewer, but also, he’s a creative and kind person. Good people make better beer,” says Bialik.

PORTLAND, OREGON

In November, Thirsty Monk will close on the purchase of a well-known Portland beer bar. Operations will continue under the Portland location’s existing name until sometime early 2018, when it will shift to serve Thirsty Monk beers out of Denver. Thirsty Monk also plans to install a small batch brewhouse in its Portland location, and serve a selection of guest taps while brewing operations get going.

“We’re expanding Thirsty Monk in a whole new way, linking a network of localized brewing hubs. Smart growth, craft-style. No need to sell the soul to expand. Our soul, creative spirit and community roots are what we and our beers are all about,” adds Bialik.

For more information about Thirsty Monk’s expansion, contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com.

ABOUT THIRSTY MONK

Thirsty Monk, founded in 2008, brews Belgian-Rooted Modern Ales in Asheville, NC, a world recognized craft beer destination. Thirsty Monk currently operates Thirsty Monk Downtown, Thirsty Monk Biltmore Park, Top of the Monk craft cocktail bar, and Brother Joe’s Coffee Pub, all in Asheville. Find the company online at monkpub.com.

Karl Strauss Wins Gold At The Great American Beer Festival

Photo © 2017 Jason E. Kaplan

SAN DIEGO, CA — Karl Strauss Brewing Company added more bling to their trophy case with a gold medal at this year’s Great American Beer Festival (“GABF”), the premier U.S. beer festival and competition. 

The company won gold in the Honey Beer category for their Orange Blossom Common. The beer is a small batch release from their satellite brewery in Carlsbad.

“We are delighted to win again at this year’s GABF. The beer that won is a unique California Common Ale brewed with Orange Blossom Honey. Props to our brewer Mickail Murawski for this medal-winning recipe. We were also stoked to see many of our independent, San Diego brewery friends also taking home medals!” says Matt Johnson, Brewmaster, Karl Strauss Brewing Company.

To learn more about Karl Strauss Brewing Company’s award-winning prowess visit www.karlstrauss.com.

 About Karl Strauss Brewing Company

Karl Strauss Brewing Company has been proudly independent since 1989, pioneering the craft beer scene with innovative beer releases like Aurora Hoppyalis IPA, Queen of Tarts Dark Sour, and Wreck Alley Imperial Stout. The brewery has won 105 medals since 2009 and was recently honored with the 2016 “Mid-Size Brewing Company of the Year” award at the Great American Beer Festival. For more information visit www.karlstrauss.com or call the brewery at (858) 273-2739. Share it. Cheers.

Media Contact

Kiersten Winant— kiersten.winant@karlstrauss.com;  619.396.5105

Lone Tree Brewing Wins Two Great American Beer Festival Medals for Mexican Lager and Hop Zombie IPA

Photos by Colin Bridge

LONE TREE, CO — Lone Tree Brewing Company was awarded a gold medal for its Mexican Lager and a silver medal for its Hop Zombie IPA at the 2017 Great American Beer Festival® in the American Style Lager or Light Lager category and the Imperial Red Ale categories, respectively.  

When Lone Tree’s Mexican Lager, formerly known as Summer Siesta, won a silver medal in the American Style Lager category in 2015, Lone Tree became the first independently owned craft brewery to win in the style category (followed closely by Sycamore Brewing who won a bronze medal in the category). “Our gold medal is a monumental achievement. It speaks to our quality, consistency and flavor,” says Lone Tree Head Brewer Josh West. 

Mexican Lager is distributed year-round in canned 6-packs across Colorado and in select locations in Kansas and Nebraska. 

The cult-followed Hop Zombie IPA comes out just once each year, during which time it has only been available on-draft and in limited bombers out of the brewery’s tasting room in Lone Tree, Colorado.

“These medals express to the beer world that we are relevant, passionate and committed to producing the highest quality craft beer possible,” adds West. 

“The Mexican Lager was our way to prove to the beer consumer that sometimes less is more,” says Lone Tree Sales Director Bridgette Geiger. “The Hop Zombie was our way of saying if you take quality ingredients and craft them just right— and have a little fun in the process— good things happen.” 

For more information about the winning beers or with any other media inquiries about Lone Tree Brewing Co., contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com. 

ABOUT LONE TREE BREWING COMPANY

Lone Tree Brewing Company was the first brewery in Lone Tree, Colorado that opened near Park Meadows Mall in 2011. The neighborhood-focused, family-friendly brewery and tasting room regularly hosts community events that gather around a stylistically diverse lineup of flagship, seasonal, and limited release beers. Lone Tree's cans and 22-ounce bombers are sold across the state of Colorado, as well as Kansas and Nebraska. Its draft beer is poured at many bars and restaurants in its distribution footprint as well. Find the brewery online at lonetreebrewingco.com.

Strange Craft Beer Co. Releases 2017 Batch of Strangely Epic

DENVER, CO —  One of Colorado’s favorite collaboration brews is back for the fourth year. Strangely Epic, a blend of two infamous beers from Strange Craft Beer Company and Epic Brewing, is now available in limited bombers across Colorado and at Strange Craft’s tasting room.

Strangely Epic is a blend of Strange Craft’s tart fruit explosion Cherry Kriek and Epic Brewing’s monster imperial stout Big Bad Baptist. The result is a complex journey through coffee, chocolate, and cherries. This beer was first created in 2013 for Denver’s Collaboration Fest. It was crafted at both breweries, and accordingly named Strangely Epic and Epically Strange respectively for where each beer was brewed and blended. 

Strange Craft and Epic Brewing both opened in 2010, and owners and head brewers Tim Myers and Kevin Crompton became fast industry friends. “Tim is a brother from another mother,” says Epic Brewmaster Kevin Crompton. “We have so many things in common— similar approaches to our beer problem solving, similar creativity— this collaboration happened really organically.” 

“Strangely Epic was one of our first collaborations” says Tim Myers. “Kevin and I weren’t really sure how Cherry Kriek would stand up to Big Bad Baptist, and we had a lot of fun figuring out the right ratio.” 

Bombers of Strangely Epic will be available in limited quantities across Colorado, and at Strange Craft’s tasting room where the beer will be served on tap while supplies last. 

For more information about Strangely Epic, or with any other media inquiries, feel free to contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com.

ABOUT STRANGE CRAFT BEER COMPANY

When Strange Craft Beer Co. opened just south of Denver’s Mile High Stadium in May 2010, it was the first nanobrewery in the city brewing one barrel of beer at a time. Strange has since become a destination spot for Colorado beer drinkers and taken home multiple awards, including two Great American Beer Festival medals and two World Beer Cups. Despite expansion to a 10 BBL brewhouse, owners Tim and Marni Myers are committed to small batches and nod to their nano roots with One Barrel Wednesdays for experimental brews. Visit the brewery online at strangecraft.com.

ABOUT EPIC BREWING

Epic Brewing Company, LLC was opened in May of 2010 in Salt Lake City and expanded to Colorado in 2013. Epic is known for its passion for style and currently offers over 40 distinctly different bees. Epic is distributed in the following states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, North Carolina, New Jersey, Nevada, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Utah, Virginia & Washington D.C., Washington, Wisconsin, & Wyoming. Find Epic online at epicbrewing.com.

Lone Tree Brewing Co. Introduces Vanilla Caramel Amber in Cans

Photo by Colin Bridge

LONE TREE, CO — Lone Tree Brewing Company’s canned fall seasonal beer, Vanilla Caramel Amber, is now available across the state of Colorado and in select locations in Kansas and Nebraska. This beer’s autumnal flavors are created with crystal malt and Madagascar vanilla beans. 

“The caramel notes in Vanilla Caramel Amber come from a large amount of Crystal 60 malt in the grain bill,” says Lone Tree Head Brewer Josh West, explaining that no caramel or other sugar is added to this beer. “The base beer is a traditional American Amber with a good helping of hops to balance out the sweetness of the vanilla.” 

This full-bodied but drinkable beer is 6 percent ABV with subtle bitterness. It pairs well with autumn nights and winter flakes. 

Vanilla Caramel Amber will be available in 12-ounce six-packs while supplies last. It’s also available on draft at Lone Tree’s tasting room. 

For more information about Vanilla Caramel Amber’s debut, or with any other media inquiries about Lone Tree, contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com. 

ABOUT LONE TREE BREWING COMPANY

Lone Tree Brewing Company was the first brewery in Lone Tree, Colorado that opened near Park Meadows Mall in 2011. The neighborhood-focused, family-friendly brewery and tasting room regularly hosts community events that gather around a stylistically diverse lineup of flagship, seasonal, and limited release beers. Lone Tree's cans and 22-ounce bombers are sold across the state of Colorado, as well as Kansas and Nebraska. Its draft beer is poured at many bars and restaurants in its distribution footprint as well. Find the brewery online at lonetreebrewingco.com. 

Spice Trade Brewing Debuts Cans of Chai Milk Stout and Sun Temple IPA, Announces Production Facility and New Brewpub in Planning

ARVADA, CO —  Brand new cans of Spice Trade Brewing’s Chai Milk Stout and Sun Temple IPA are now available at liquor stores and bars across Denver’s metro area. With their debut comes the announcement of the brewery’s production facility and new brewpub in planning, slated for completion in 2018.

Chai Milk Stout epitomizes Spice Trade’s culinary and cultural style of brewing. This beer, awarded a silver medal at the 2013 Great American Beer Festival® in the Herb and Spice Beer category, is brewed with a secret family recipe blend of chai spices made in-house at Yak & Yeti Restaurants. The result is a chocolate and roast-forward stout that’s bursting with fresh chai tea aroma and flavor.

The Sun Temple IPA is the newest addition to Spice Trade’s core beer lineup. It’s a classic example of a juicy, hazy New England-style IPA fermented with a yeast strain that has evolved in Northern Vermont breweries. This IPA explodes with mango, peach, and citrus flavors but still finishes smooth and dry. 

Spice Trade Brewing has acquired a 15 barrel brewhouse for the brewery’s new production facility (location TBD) that will set up shop in a separate location from the Yak & Yeti restaurant in Arvada. Plans also include a communal tasting room and beer garden, and a full kitchen to serve eclectic street food from around the world. Spice Trade’s beers will continue to fill the taps at all three of Yak & Yeti’s restaurant locations. 

For more information about Spice Trade Brewing’s new cans or production facility, or with any other media inquiries, contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com.

ABOUT SPICE TRADE BREWING CO.

Spice Trade Brewing Co. produces unique beer styles inspired by culinary ingredients and traditions from around the world. Formerly Yak & Yeti Brewpub, Spice Trade is now a stand-alone brewery operating out of Yak & Yeti Restaurant in Arvada, Colorado under the direction of Head Brewer Jeff Tyler who joined the company in summer 2016. The brewery hand-crafts a wide variety of beer in small batches on a 7 barrel brewhouse with a focus on high quality, ingredient centered beer. Find Spice Trade online at spicetradebrewing.com.

Hop Zombie IPA Returns To Lone Tree

Photo by Colin Bridge

LONE TREE, CO — Hop Zombie Day is creepin’ on up. On Saturday, September 30 Lone Tree Brewing Company will release bombers of Hop Zombie Imperial Red IPA and serve the beer on draft. Hop Zombie typically sells out in one day.

Hop Zombie is Lone Tree Brewing’s most anticipated release of the year. It’s a complex, bold IPA that’s deep red in color, with rich malt character balanced by huge hop flavor and aroma created by eight different hops. Hop Zombie is a beer brewed to bring you back from the grave, weighing in at 8.9 percent ABV and 90 IBUs. A very limited number of bombers will be available at the brewery only, and bottles cannot be reserved in advance. 

Brewery guests who purchase a case, or 12 bombers, of Hop Zombie will be entered into a raffle to win two tickets to the Saturday afternoon session of the Great American Beer Festival®.

For more information about this famed beer or its history, contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com.

ABOUT LONE TREE BREWING COMPANY

Lone Tree Brewing Company was the first brewery in Lone Tree, Colorado that opened near Park Meadows Mall in 2011. The neighborhood-focused, family-friendly brewery and tasting room regularly hosts community events that gather around a stylistically diverse lineup of flagship, seasonal, and limited release beers. Lone Tree's cans and 22-ounce bombers are sold across the state of Colorado, as well as Kansas and Nebraska. Its draft beer is poured at many bars and restaurants in its distribution footprint as well. Find the brewery online at lonetreebrewingco.com.

Deerhammer Distilling Introduces Port Cask Finish American Single Malt Whiskey

BUENA VISTA, CO —  Deerhammer Distilling’s Port Cask Finish American Single Malt is now available in liquor stores across Colorado’s Front Range and at the tasting room in downtown Buena Vista. This whiskey is the first extension of Deerhammer’s flagship American Single Malt, aged for a total of three years both in oak and port wine barrels. 

This exclusive Deerhammer expression marries tradition with innovation. The distillery’s American Single Malt has redefined the flavor, and future, of independent American craft whiskey. This whiskey is now routed down the traditional road of fortified wine cask finishing. A selection of Deerhammer’s finest two year matured, American Single Malt Whiskey was selected and transferred to ex-port wine casks for an additional year of maturation time. The results are characterized through nuanced flavors of dark fruit, caramel, and tannins, which enhance the complexity of our mainstay whiskey. Each component has been crafted with the intention of delivering a whiskey to be savored.

Only 2500 bottles of Port Cask Finish American Single Malt Whiskey will be available for purchase. 

For more information about Port Cask Finish American Single Malt, or with any other media inquiries, contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com.

ABOUT DEERHAMMER DISTILLING

Steeped in Tradition. Crafted in Colorado. 

Amy and Lenny Eckstein founded Deerhammer in 2010. Drawn to Buena Vista, Colorado by the whitewater currents of the Arkansas River, their passion for whiskey is driven by that same adventurous spirit. As artisans and business owners, Amy and Lenny’s process is defined by a deep curiosity for the history of spirits and a thoughtful analysis of each individual step of the distilling process. Deerhammer's cornerstone contribution to the field of American craft spirits, Single Malt Whiskey, has become the company's flagship product. Deerhammer also distills Whitewater Whiskey, Buena Vista Brandy, and Dutch Style Gin. Find the distillery online at deerhammer.com.

Barrels & Bottles Brewery Announces Greg Moore as new Head Brewer

GOLDEN, CO —  Earlier this summer Barrels & Bottles Brewery hired Greg Moore to direct brewing operations at its 3 BBL brewhouse in downtown Golden. Moore comes to the brewpub with several years of brewing experience at Colorado breweries. 

Moore’s first brewing gig was at Rock Bottom Brewery in Downtown Denver in 2009. He would go on to become head brewer at Wynkoop Brewing, Denver’s first brewpub, and then a production brewer at Sleeping Giant Brewing Company, Denver’s first dedicated production brewery with a 50 BBL brewhouse. 

Moore continues to brew Barrels & Bottles’ flagships Orange Creamsicle Blonde Al, Space Oddity Pale Ale, The Beer Formerly Known As Amber Ale, Bang Your Head Red IPA, Colorado BAE IPA, and Obsess Much? Imperial Peanut Butter & Chocolate Stout, as well as the sought-after seasonals Big LeBEERski Imperial Milk Golden Milk Stout and FROmageddon American Style Barleywine. He’s also brewing new styles including a Kölsch and a Double IPA, expanding the company’s barrel-aging program, and delving into kettle sours.

With Moore's hiring also comes updates to the brewpub, including more taps for beer, digital menus, and additional fermentation tanks.

“Going into our fifth year of business with Greg, we are stoked about where he is taking us. We have 100 percent confidence in Greg and look forward to his beers,” say Barrels & Bottles owners Zach and Abby George.

For more information about Barrels & Bottles, contact Zach and Abby George at barrelsbottles@gmail.com. 

ABOUT BARRELS & BOTTLES BREWERY

Zach and Abby George opened Barrels & Bottles on 12th Street in downtown Golden in October 2013. The brewpub has 27 beer taps, 24 wines on tap, and a slushie machine for serving its infamous wine slushies. Barrels & Bottles also serves farm-fresh food menu with cheese platters, baguettes, and various beer-friendly small plates. The brewpub was named Golden Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year in 2014. Find Barrels & Bottles online at barrelsbottles.com.

Lone Tree Brewing Co. Releases 2017 Batch of Cranberry Saison

Photo by Colin Bridge, click for complete image

LONE TREE, CO — Returning for the second year is Lone Tree Brewing Company’s Cranberry Saison in 22-ounce bombers. Beginning next week, this beer will be available while supplies last on shelves across Colorado and in select liquor stores in Kansas. Cranberry Saison belongs to Lone Tree’s Branching Out Series of experimental, limited quantity beers in large format bottles.

Cranberry Saison is a Belgian-style farmhouse ale that was aged with fresh cranberry puree. Effervescent and sightly tart, and deceiving 8.5 percent ABV, this refreshing beer is perfect for sipping long past the dog days of summer and well into autumn at the Thanksgiving table.

The Lone Tree Branching Out series includes India Pale Lager that came out earlier this summer, English Old Ale, Triple IPA, and Horchata Stout that will come out later this year, and the spring seasonal Bier de Printemps.

For more information about Cranberry Saison, or with any other media inquiries about Lone Tree, contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com.

ABOUT LONE TREE BREWING COMPANY

Lone Tree Brewing Company was the first brewery in Lone Tree, Colorado that opened near Park Meadows Mall in 2011. The neighborhood-focused, family-friendly brewery and tasting room regularly hosts community events that gather around a stylistically diverse lineup of flagship, seasonal, and limited release beers. Lone Tree's cans and 22-ounce bombers are sold across the state of Colorado, as well as Kansas and Nebraska. Its draft beer is poured at many bars and restaurants in its distribution footprint as well. Find the brewery online at lonetreebrewingco.com.

DRiNK RiNo Hosts Oktoberfest September 16

Strap on your lederhosen and dirndls, it's time to bring Munich to RiNo. On September 16, the DRiNk RiNo community will serve its best Oktoberfest and fall seasonal offerings.

Oktoberfest is NOT a bier tasting event, it's a bier drinking event! Last year more 700 fest-going patrons joined the celebration with a masskrugstemmen competition, classic German food and oompah bands galore. 

Tickets cost $20 and include entrance to the festivities from noon to 10pm and a liter of bier in a 0.5l mug. Tickets are available at DrinkRino.com/ofest. The Rackhouse, taproom to DRiNK RiNo members Bierstadt Lagerhaus and C Squared Ciders at 2875 Blake St. will host the event in their parking lot. 

DRiNK RiNo Members include Bierstadt Lagerhaus, C Squared Ciders, Black Shirt Brewing Co., Mockery Brewing, Great Divide Brewing Co., Epic Brewing Company - Denver Taproom, Beryl's Beer Co., Our Mutual Friend Brewery, The Block Distilling Co., Ratio Beerworks, Stem Ciders, Bigsby's Folly-A Craft Winery: Food, Bar, Private Events, and The Infinite Monkey Theorem. 

About DRiNK RiNo

Denver's River North Art District, RiNo, has grown to become the epicenter of independent craft adult beverage producers in Denver. DRiNk RiNo is a 501(c)(6) not-for- profit trade association of independent craft adult beverage producers dedicated to promoting and celebrating the independent and wild spirit of RiNo. We have the largest concentration of craft beverage manufacturers in the United States, with 15 craft breweries, cideries, wineries and distilleries in a one-mile radius. RiNo has become the place to eat, drink and play. Hop on the FREE DriNk RiNo Circulator every First Friday 5pm to 12am and Saturdays 2 to 10pm.  For more information, visit drinkrino.com.

Deerhammer Distillery Drives The American Single Malt Whiskey Commission's Mission to Define and Recognize the Single Malt Whiskey Category

The American Single Malt Whiskey Commission (ASMWC) was formed in 2016 in response to the growing need for American-based producers to define the category—both domestically and internationally—in order to protect, educate, promote and ultimately grow it. 

Helping to drive the American Single Malt Whiskey category is Deerhammer Distillery in Buena Vista, Colorado. Deerhammer's cornerstone contribution to the field of American craft spirits, Single Malt Whiskey, has become the company's flagship product. 

“The various styles of whiskey being produced in this country are already so much broader than the historic bourbon and rye whiskies that we’re most known for,” says Deerhammer owner Lenny Eckstein. “With so many distilleries here in the US already producing an American Single Malt Whiskey, I think it’s important that the standards for the style be recognized so that consumers know why Deerhammer American single malt is different than offerings already coming from other countries - Scotland, Ireland, Japan, and India to name a few.”

MORE DETAILS 

Established in 2016, ASMWC serves to establish, promote and protect the category of Single Malt Whiskey. It defines Single Malt Whiskey as spirit made from 100 percent malted barley; distilled entirely at one distillery;  mashed, distilled, and matured in the United States of America; matured in oak casks of a capacity not exceeding 700 liters; distilled to no more than 160 (U.S.) proof (80 percent ABV); and bottled at 80 (U.S.) proof or more (40 percent ABV). Find ASMWC online at americansinglemaltwhiskey.org.

Deerhammer is one of ASMWC's more than 50 member producers in the United States. Beginning its life as porter-style malted barley whiskey, Deerhammer's Single Malt is shaped by open-air fermentation and double distillation through direct-fire copper pot stills. It is aged in charred virgin white oak casks for at least two years in Buena Vista's high alpine climate that maximizes the flavor potential of the mash, due to dramatic temperature shifts that can range from 40-80° in a single day. The result is a complex whiskey with notes of sweet coffee, cacao, caramel and spices.

If you would like more information about Deerhammer Distillery or The American Single Malt Whiskey Commission please contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com.  

ABOUT DEERHAMMER DISTILLING

Steeped in Tradition. Crafted in Colorado. 

Amy and Lenny Eckstein founded Deerhammer in 2010. Drawn to Buena Vista, Colorado by the whitewater currents of the Arkansas River, their passion for whiskey is driven by that same adventurous spirit. As artisans and business owners, Amy and Lenny’s process is defined by a deep curiosity for the history of spirits and a thoughtful analysis of each individual step of the distilling process. Find the distillery online at deerhammer.com.

Bierstadt Lagerhaus To Release Velorama Vienna Lager

DENVER, CO— Today Bierstadt Lagerhaus releases its Velorama Vienna Lager Release brewed for the Velorama Colorado Fetival and Colorado Classic bike race.

This beer is a 5.6% ABV lager with low bitterness, copper color, and toasty malt flavor balanced with a dry finish. The recipe includes Vienna malt, Pilsner malt, hallertauer tradition hops, and German Lager yeast. It will be sold on tap at a number of locations in the Metro area and in Crowlers at Bierstadt Lagerhaus. 

The official beer release will take place at 4 p.m. Thursday, August 3, with live music from 5 to 9 pm. Meet Brewers and Owners Ashleigh Carter and Bill Eye, who opened Bierstadt last year at 2875 Blake St, Denver, CO 80205

This beer is just one of the ways the neighborhood is partnering with organizers of the upcoming Velorama Colorado Fetival and Colorado Classic bike race. Members of the Drink RiNo group are also the offical adult-beverage partners, meaning their beer, wine and cider will be sold exclusively at race stages in Colorado Springs (Aug. 10) and Breckenridge (Aug. 11) and for the Velorama festival in Denver (Aug. 11-13), which includes the final two stages of the race. 

With 15 independently owned breweries, cideries, wineries and distilleries in a roughly 1-mile radius, RiNo has one of the highest concentrations of adult craft beverage producers in the U.S -- and we're proud to partner with the whole Drink RiNo group: Beryl’s Beer Co. Bierstadt Lagerhaus, Bigsby’s Folly, Black Shirt Brewing Co., The Block Distilling Co., C Squared Ciders, Epic Brewing, Great Divide Brewing Co., Infinite Monkey Theorem Urban Winery, Ironton Distillery & Crafthouse, Mockery Brewing Co., Our Mutual Friend Brewing Co., Ratio Beerworks, Stem Ciders and Zephyr Brewing Co.

For information about Velorama Colorado, visit www.VeloramaColorado.com or call Curtis: (303) 908-2378. 

Find Bierstadt Lagerhaus online at bierstadtlager.com. For more information contact Ashleigh Carter at ashleigh@bierstadtlager.com 

Former Great Divide Brewing Director of Sales Joins ‘The MBM Group’

Photo by Colin Bridge

PITTSBURGH, PA – The MBM Group is proud to announce that Anna Nadasdy has joined the organization as the first operating partner. This strategic addition to the group comes at a time of unprecedented growth in the craft beer, spirits and wine industries. Nadasdy will work with new and existing clients to expand the already-robust service offerings and develop customized consultative solutions.

Nadasdy joins The MBM Group from Great Divide Brewing Company where, as Director of Sales & Marketing, she was a member of the Executive Leadership Team providing measured and analytical perspective on all facets of the brewery operations. In addition, she was responsible for building and motivating the sales & marketing teams to deliver profitable, brand building results through their national distributor network.

“Anna is exactly the partner I anticipated adding to our team as we continue to get calls from prospective clients in need of strategic consulting, training and direction,” said CEO & Founder of The MBM Group, Michele Meloy Burchfield.

With an extensive sales and management background gained over the course of the last 15 years from lengthy turns for other well-respected breweries including Odell Brewing Co. and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company, Nadasdy brings a wealth of experience and skill to The MBM Group.

Burchfield said, “She embodies the knowledge, expertise and passion of the next generation of the beverage alcohol business and I believe that she will deliver on The MBM Group’s commitment to transforming sales organizations.”

In 2010, Nadasdy’s palate and passion for craft beer led her to pursue and achieve Certified Cicerone — among the first of industry sales professionals to be awarded the level. Additionally, she has been very active on both the Government Affairs Committee for the Colorado Brewers’ Guild and the Brewers’ Association’s Market Development Committee, having authored and co-authored several popular articles.

Ms. Nadasdy holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from Purdue University and resides in Northwest Denver with her husband, John, and daughter, Evelyn.

ABOUT THE MBM GROUP

The MBM Group is a Training & Consulting company specializing in the Beverage Category. The services include Strategic Sales & Marketing Consulting, Organizational Analysis, Sales, Negotiating, Managing & Developing People and Effective Wholesaler Partnership Training. Clients include Sierra Nevada Brewing Company, Firestone Walker Brewing Company, Rogue Ales & Spirits, D.G. Yuengling & Son, New Belgium Brewing Company, Founders Brewing Co., FIJI Water, Wonderful Brands, Golden Road Brewing Company, Origlio Distributing, Tenth & Blake, Ste. Michelle Wine Estates & Vermont Hard Cider Company.

Strange Craft Beer Company Presents The Brown Palace Golden Age Imperial Honey Brown Ale

Photo by Colin Bridge feat. Rob Dietrich, head distiller at Stranahan's tasting this beer from barrels.

DENVER, CO —  August 12, 2017 marks the 125th Anniversary for Denver institution The Brown Palace Hotel. To celebrate, Strange Craft Beer Company has brewed a batch of beer with water from the Brown Palace’s artesian well and a touch of honey from the hotel's rooftop beehives, and aged it for four months in Stranahan’s Diamond Peak Whiskey barrels. The Brown Palace Golden Age tops the charts at 12.5 percent ABV as a potent nod to The Brown's 125th. A very limited number of bombers will be available at The Brown Palace. 

The Brown Palace Golden Age was brewed with 60 pounds of Colorado honey in honor of The Brown Palace’s rooftop beehives and 10 pounds of English East Kent Goldings hops on a base of English Maris Otter and Brown malt, and fermented with Strange's house Belgian yeast. It has sweet honey aroma and roasted, dark chocolate notes, all amplified with whiskey qualities from its time spent in barrels. This beer will gain complexity over time. 

The label for Golden Age was developed by students at The Art Institute of Colorado. 

Reservations for The Brown’s Strange Craft Beer 12.5% Anniversary package, which includes a bottle of this beer, are available beginning August 1. Guests can also taste the beer on draft at Ship Tavern in the hotel while supplies last. 

For more information about this 125th anniversary brew, contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com. 

ABOUT STRANGE CRAFT BEER COMPANY

When Strange Craft Beer Co. opened just south of Denver’s Mile High Stadium in May 2010, it was the first nanobrewery in the city brewing one barrel of beer at a time. Strange has since become a destination spot for Colorado beer drinkers and taken home multiple awards, including two Great American Beer Festival medals and two World Beer Cups. Visit the brewery online at strangecraft.com.

ABOUT THE BROWN PALACE HOTEL AND SPA

The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa is a Forbes Four Star, AAA Four Diamond luxury landmark located in the heart of downtown Denver. It is a charter member of National Trust Historic Hotels of America and is managed by Quorum Hotels & Resorts, a full service management company headquartered in Dallas. The Brown Palace is also part of the signature Autograph Collection, an exclusive collection of upper upscale and luxury hotels within Marriott International’s global portfolio. The Brown will celebrate its 125th anniversary in August 2017. For more information, visit brownpalace.com. 

Lone Tree Brewing To Host Brews For CancerBlows Dinner Featuring Coffee IPA collaboration with Broken Compass Brewing

CancerBlows 2017 - photo by Lone Tree Brewing Co.

LONE TREE, CO — Lone Tree Brewing Company will host its annual Brews for CancerBlows dinner on Friday, July 7. The event will feature CancerBlows Coffee IPA brewed in collaboration with Broken Compass Brewing, five Lone Tree beer-paired courses crafted by Chef Paul Worley, and live music by the H2 Big Band and trumpet players from the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. Proceeds from this event will go to CancerBlows and The Ryan Anthony Foundation. 

Kenyan Thaita AA roast from Denver’s Boxcar Coffee was added to the CancerBlows Coffee IPA after fermentation. This beer’s light grain bill—comprised of 2-row malt, biscuit malt, crystal malt, and oats— makes way for bold and juicy Mosaic hop additions and lightly roasted, fruit-forward coffee. Lactose is added to convey a coffee-and-cream mouthfeel. Brews for CancerBlows Guests will receive welcome goblets of this beer during a private tour of Lone Tree Brewing with Head Brewer Josh West. 

Tickets for this beer dinner cost $70 and can be purchased here or in Lone Tree’s tasting room. The menu is available on Lone Tree’s Facebook page.

If you would like more information about the Brews for CancerBlows dinner, the CancerBlows Coffee IPA, or Lone Tree’s partnership with The Ryan Anthony Foundation, please contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com. 

ABOUT LONE TREE BREWING COMPANY

Lone Tree Brewing Company was the first brewery in Lone Tree, Colorado that opened near Park Meadows Mall in 2011. The neighborhood-focused, family-friendly brewery and tasting room regularly hosts community events that gather around a stylistically diverse lineup of flagship, seasonal, and limited release beers. Lone Tree's cans and 22-ounce bombers are sold across the state of Colorado, as well as Kansas and Nebraska. Its draft beer is poured at many bars and restaurants in its distribution footprint as well. Find the brewery online at lonetreebrewingco.com.

ABOUT BROKEN COMPASS BREWING

Broken Compass Brewing opened in 2014 just a short bike ride, drive or ski north of downtown Breckenridge with a focus on bringing you great beer and great community all in one location. With shelves full of board games and friendly dogs and humans filling the seats, it's the perfect place to grab a beer after work or relax with friends and family on mountain vacations. Broken Compass brews are sold almost exclusively at the brewery tasting room and at a scattering of restaurants in Summit County. Find the brewery online at brokencompassbrewing.com.

ABOUT CANCERBLOWS

In 2013 43-year-old Dallas Symphony Orchestra trumpeter Ryan Anthony was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, a terminal bone marrow cancer that typically appears in patients aged 70 and older. Ryan’s musical community rallied around him and when they offered support, he jokingly replied that “we’ll all play a concert when I am healthy again and we’ll call it 'Cancer Blows'”.  Ryan is now in remission, and the joke morphed into The Ryan Anthony Foundation, who in 2015 put on CancerBlows, a once-in-a-lifetime musical event bringing together the most famous trumpet players in the world. The event raised more than $1 million with all of the net proceeds donated to the Baylor Health Care Research Foundation and Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation that work toward a cure for cancer. Visit CancerBlows online at cancerblows.com. 

Strange Craft Beer Company’s Watermelon Hefe Returns For Independence Day

Photo by The Molecule Effect

DENVER, CO —  Strange Craft Beer Company’s popular summer seasonal Watermelon Hefe will return for its fourth year on draft and in limited bombers just in time for the Fourth of July. 

Watermelon Hefe was first brewed at Strange in 2013 and bottled one year later. This bright and crisp German-style wheat beer is one of the brewery’s most sought-after creations, a refreshing summer delicacy adored for its 5.5 percent ABV drinkability and healthy but not overpowering dose of real watermelon— more than 660 pounds of organic, hand-cut fruit per batch. 

Strange Craft’s Watermelon Hefe will be available at the brewery on draft and in bombers on Friday, June 30. This year’s bottle run is the smallest yet, with only 60 cases to be distributed across Colorado’s Front Range. Last year, this beer was sold out by the end of July. 

For more information about Strange Craft’s Watermelon Hefe, or with any other media inquiries, contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com. 

ABOUT STRANGE CRAFT BEER COMPANY

When Strange Craft Beer Co. opened just south of Denver’s Mile High Stadium in May 2010, it was the first nanobrewery in the city brewing one barrel of beer at a time. Strange has since become a destination spot for Colorado beer drinkers and taken home multiple awards, including two Great American Beer Festival medals and two World Beer Cups. Despite expansion to a 10 BBL brewhouse, owners Tim and Marni Myers are committed to small batches and nod to their nano roots with One Barrel Wednesdays for experimental brews. Each month the brewery donates proceeds from a nonprofit tap to a local charity through their Strangers Helping Strangers program, and offers a lineup of food trucks and other community events. Visit the brewery online at strangecraft.com.

The Jailhouse Craft Beer Bar to Celebrate First Anniversary on July 15, 2017

BUENA VISTA, CO— The Jailhouse Craft Beer Bar on East Main Street in Buena Vista is celebrating its first anniversary on Saturday, July 15 with a mini beer festival and live music.

Baere Brewing, Black Project Spontaneous & Wild Ales, Cerebral Brewing, Elevation Beer Company, and Melvin Brewing will be pouring during the mini beer fest from 2 - 6 p.m. Live music will start on the outdoor stage at 3 p.m. with Boulder based rock band Augustus followed up by Denver based bluegrass band The River Arkansas 6 - 8 pm.

The Jailhouse recently extended its liquor license to include the lot next door, which houses The Watershed BV – a community shared space – an outdoor stage, where all the live music will be taking place, and The Bearded Lady food truck.

The Jailhouse Craft Beer Bar will be open before, during, and after the mini beer fest with service as usual and a special selection of beers filling its 10 taps. Guests are welcome to bring their beers to the beer fest area to enjoy the music, but a wristband is required to sample beers from the beer tents. Tickets are $20 for unlimited tasting from the beer tents and access to live music. Tickets will be available for purchase at The Jailhouse leading up to the event and at the door on July 15.

The Mini Beer Fest is also a benefit for Chaffee County Search & Rescue North, who will be selling $3 Colorado Outdoor Recreation Search and Rescue (CORSAR) cards at the door— each card purchase helps to reimburse the volunteer teams for costs incurred for rescue missions. CCSAR will also host demos and classes on the hour during the festival inside The Watershed BV. 

For more information about The Jailhouse or its first anniversary celebration, contact Sarah Haughey at sarah@thejailhousebv.com.

ABOUT THE JAILHOUSE CRAFT BEER BAR

The Jailhouse is a craft beer bar located in the historic 1880s jailhouse in Buena Vista, Colorado. Featuring 10 rotating taps of craft beers from across Colorado, the United States, and abroad, plus bottles, cans, and wine, The Jailhouse offers something for every palate. Find The Jailhouse online at thejailhousebv.com

Lone Tree Brewing Company To Debut Cucumber Wheat Cans at Summer Carnival on June 17

Photo by Colin Bridge

LONE TREE, CO — Lone Tree Brewing Company likes to celebrate the longest days of the year. This year the brewery is hosting the Summer Carnival on Saturday, June 17, just five days before summer solstice. This celebration will feature a strawberry-infused batch of Lone Tree’s Blonde Ale and the debut of the brewery’s popular Cucumber Wheat Beer in cans. 

This American Wheat beer has fresh cucumber flavors and just enough hop profile for a crisp finish. It was first brewed for Lone Tree’s 2016 Summer Solstice Celebration, one of the brewery’s signature annual events. 

This year, the party has all the carnival fixin’s of a day at the fair,  including lawn games, live music by the School of Rock Aurora, face painting by Emma Paints Colorado, and concessions by the Elevation 5280 food truck. This event’s infamous charity dunk tank will benefit the Front Range Center for Assault Prevention. Here is the detailed calendar of amusements—

Elevation 5280: Street Food Elevated 11am-8pm

School of Rock Aurora- House Band 2-4pm

Emma Paints Colorado 1-4 pm

Charity Dunk Tank 3-5pm

This event is family and dog friendly, and it does not require tickets. 

Photos of Lone Tree’s 2016 Summer Solstice celebration can be downloaded here. Photo credit can be given to Eleven17 Photography.

For more information about this event feel free to contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com.

ABOUT LONE TREE BREWING COMPANY

Lone Tree Brewing Company was the first brewery in Lone Tree, Colorado that opened near Park Meadows Mall in 2011. The neighborhood-focused, family-friendly brewery and tasting room regularly hosts community events that gather around a stylistically diverse lineup of flagship, seasonal, and limited release beers. Lone Tree's cans and 22-ounce bombers are sold across the state of Colorado, as well as Kansas and Nebraska. Its draft beer is poured at many bars and restaurants in its distribution footprint as well. Find the brewery online at lonetreebrewingco.com.