Dirty Dozen Brass Band To Play Fourth-Annual Bonfire Block Party

EAGLE, CO – Bonfire Brewing and Optimum Events announced the second of eight musical acts for the fourth-annual Bonfire Block Party held Friday, June 1 and Saturday, June 2 in downtown Eagle. New Orleans-based Dirty Dozen Brass Band will perform as part of the two-day street party, with the full music lineup to be announced on March 20. Limited Early Bird tickets for the Block Party are now on sale and feature a VIP Experience, Two-Day Sili Packages and Two-Day Wristbands.

Celebrating 40 years since their founding in 1977, the Dirty Dozen Brass Band has taken the tradition of a brass band and incorporated it into a musical fusion of Bebop Jazz, Funk and R&B/Soul. Described by the Band as “musical gumbo,” their rollicking sound has brought the Dirty Dozen to five continents and 30 countries - with 12 studio albums to their name and collaborations with artists from all genres like Modest Mouse, Widespread Panic and Norah Jones. The Brass Band is considered a music machine and their high-octane live shows have brought them fans from around the world.  

Organizers previously announced blues rocker Nicki Bluhm as another Main Stage act for the Block Party. For more information on the 2018 Bonfire Block Party and to purchase discounted Early Bird tickets, visit www.bonfireblockparty.com.

If You Go:

What: Bonfire Block Party

Where:  Broadway and Second Streets, Eagle

When: Friday, June 1 and Saturday, June 2, 2018

Cost: $17/$32/$95 (Limited Early Bird ticketing)

More: www.bonfireblockparty.com

Photo: The Dirty Dozen Brass Band will play the fourth-annual Bonfire Block Party in Eagle, CO taking place Friday, June 1 and Saturday, June 2, 2018. Limited Early Bird ticketing is available and the full musical lineup will be announced March 20, 2018.

Deerhammer American Single Malt Wins 2018 Good Food Award

Photo by Kassia Borreson of the Good Food Awards blind tasting

SAN FRANCISCO, CA — Deerhammer Distilling’s American Single Malt was named a winner in the spirits category of the 2018 Good Food Awards today at the organization’s annual awards ceremony at the San Francisco War Memorial & Performing Arts Center. 

Now in its eighth year, the Good Food Awards are given to tasty, authentic and responsible food producers in 15 categories: spirits, beer, cider, charcuterie, cheese, chocolate, coffee, confections, preserved fish, honey, oils pantry, pickles, preserves, and elixirs. Deerhammer American Single Malt was one of 279 finalists for the 2018 awards, which include 15 other spirits category finalists. This year’s judges included Summer-Jane Bell, the president of the US Bartender’s Guild, and Sue AnderBois, the director of Food Strategy of the State of Rhode Island, among several other food and beverage professionals and spirits writers.

Good Food Awards entries must be made in the United States, utilize ingredients that are grown and sourced responsibly and grown without the use of synthetic herbicides, pesticides, fungicides or fertilizers as much as possible, free of artificial ingredients, and distilled without GMOs. 

"It’s great to finally see the American Single Malt category gain some recognition, but even more awesome to be recognized by the Good Food Awards that takes the judging criteria seriously for American whiskey,” says Deerhammer founder and head distiller Lenny Eckstein. “This award is a huge honor for us.”

For more information about Deerhammer's American Single Malt, or with any other media inquiries, feel free to contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com. For more information about the Good Food Awards, contact Madeline Wheeler at madeline@postcardcomm.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.

ABOUT THE GOOD FOOD AWARDS

The Good Food Awards (GFA) celebrate exceptional American craft food and drink producers who create distinctive, handcrafted, and sustainable products. The GFA brings together thought leaders from every sector of the food industry to choose the most delicious products from all regions of the country in a blind tasting. Products are evaluated by region, allowing the GFA to showcase the rich variety of terroirs of the nation’s food culture, elevating craft producers with the ultimate aim of stimulating local food economies. After the tasting, high-scoring producers are closely vetted for compliance with GFA requirements for sustainable production practices. Winners and runners-up are evaluated by the Good Food Foundation and announced each January at the Awards Ceremony. Learn more at goodfoodawards.org.

Smoke ’em if You Got ’em On Saturday February 10 at the Bierstadt Rauchbock Release

Click the image for complete event poster.

DENVER, CO — On February 10 at noon, Bierstadt Lagerhaus releases its stunningly smokey Rauchbock at the Rauchbock Parka Party, and some people will really dislike it. These are of course the same people that whine about Islay malts, brilliant Mezcals and smelling like smoke after cooking on a campfire. These are people we at Bierstadt would rather not spend any time with so if this describes you, please stay away. If on the other hand, you enjoy all of the things mentioned above, plus barbecue and maybe even a cigar or two, you are not going to want to miss it. That and we already dis-invited sniveling whiners so the company, and the conversation should be glorious.

The party will go from noon to late and will include barbecue from the smoke masters at Owlbear, a Mezcal tasting from our friends at Finn’s Manor, and Cigar rolling from Palma.  It is a celebration of all things smoked and smokey.  BYO parka so you can get outside to enjoy the cigars.

Event attendance is free. Please RSVP via Eventbrite.                      

ABOUT BIERSTADT

Bierstadt Lagerhaus is a Lager Brewery specializing in German Style Lagers, located in the heart of Denver’s RiNo Art District – and we only whine very occasionally. Find us online at bierstadtlager.com.

Lone Tree Brewing Horchata Stout Now Available

Photo by Colin Bridge

LONE TREE, CO — Lone Tree Brewing Company’s seasonal Horchata Stout hits Colorado shelves in bombers this week. This popular wintertime beer is back for the third year, and only available while supplies last. 

Horchata Stout is a 6 percent ABV stout brewed with chocolate, cinnamon, and lactose. It was first brewed in collaboration with The Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant as a nod to the popular Mexican rice and almond milk beverage. "Together we developed a recipe that incorporated the creamy texture of Horchata and the slight spice of cinnamon,” says Lone Tree Sales Manager Bridgette Geiger.

Horchata Stout belongs to Lone Tree Brewing Company’s Branching Out series of experimental, limited quantity beers in large format bottles. These beers were first served draft-only at Lone Tree and by popular demand have become the brewery’s packaged offerings. The Branching Out Series also includes Bière de Printemps, India Pale Lager, Cranberry Saison, English Old Ale, and Triple IPA.

A very limited number of Horchata Stout bombers will be distributed across Colorado. The beer is also on draft while supplies last at the brewery’s tasting room. 

For more information about Lone Tree Brewing’s Horchata Stout contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com.

ABOUT LONE TREE BREWING COMPANY

Take Root, Grow Friends

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.

RadCraft Reflects on 5 Rad Years in Business

Photo by The Brewtography Project

Good things come in fives— like human senses, and arms on a starfish. And the number of years that we've been in business helping fermented malted barley crafters tell stories about their brands. Rarely, though, do we tell stories about our own brand. In observance of the cooperative's fifth anniversary, RadCraft's founder Emily Hutto reflects on the company's evolution. 

Holiday Pre-Sale Tickets Available Now for 2018 Bonfire Block Party in Eagle, CO

Photo by John-Ryan Lockman/Showlove Media

EAGLE, CO – Bonfire Brewing and Optimum Events announced a special holiday sale on discounted two-day wristbands, event-branded SiliPints and the newly-created VIP experience for the fourth annual Bonfire Block Party, a beer and music street party, slated for Friday, June 1 and Saturday, June 2, 2018 in downtown Eagle. The event, voted the Best of Vail’s Best Summer Festival, showcases main stage and side stage music along with food vendors and Bonfire Brewing craft beer releases. A portion of all proceeds benefit nonprofit partner, The Cycle Effect. The special holiday sale continues through January 1 and offers the guaranteed lowest ticket prices for the 2018 event.

New for 2018, the Block Party offers a VIP experience for concertgoers that includes a covered tent with seating, dedicated viewing area, complimentary catering, full bar service, Bonfire craft beer and a 2018 branded glow-in-the-dark SiliPint tumbler. Holiday sale pricing for VIP tickets is $85 per person and will increase to $95 per person on January 2. Two-day holiday sale general admission tickets are only $12 and two-day GA tickets with a 2018 SiliPint are $27. Both GA ticket prices will increase on January 2.

Eight bands will play over the two-day event on the Broadway Main Stage and the Second Street Side Stage, adjacent to Bonfire Brewing in Eagle. The full music lineup will be released in early 2018. Past musical acts include the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, SunSquabi, Robert Randolph & The Family Band and the Sam Bush Band.

For more information and to purchase tickets online, visit www.bonfireblockparty.com.

If You Go:

What: 4th Annual Bonfire Block Party

Where:  Broadway and Second Streets, Eagle

When: Friday, June 1 and Saturday, June 2, 2018

Cost: $12/$27/$85 (Special holiday pricing through January 1, 2018)

More: www.bonfireblockparty.com

Photo: The Sam Bush Band headlined 2017’s Bonfire Block Party in Eagle, CO

Deerhammer American Single Malt Whiskey is a 2018 Good Food Awards Finalist

BUENA VISTA, CO — Deerhammer American Single Malt Whiskey was named a finalist in the spirits category of the 2018 Good Food Awards! 

In its eighth year, Good Food Awards are given to tasty, authentic and responsible food producers in 15 categories: spirits, beer, cider, charcuterie, cheese, chocolate, coffee, confections, preserved fish, honey, oils pantry, pickles, preserves, and elixirs. Deerhammer American Single Malt is one of 279 finalists for the 2018 awards, which include 15 other spirits category finalists and seven other finalists across categories originating from the state of Colorado. Finalists were chosen from a pool of 2,057 entries.

Spirits that meet the criteria for Good Food Awards entry can trace all of their ingredients, from base distillate to added ingredients, without the use of genetically modified crops and without artificial additives.

Beginning its life as porter-style malted barley whiskey, Deerhammer's American 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. 

The winners of the 2018 Good Food Awards will be announced on January 19, 2018.

For more information about Deerhammer contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com. For more information about the Good Food Awards, contact Madeline Wheeler at madeline@postcardcomm.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.

ABOUT THE GOOD FOOD AWARDS

The Good Food Awards (GFA) celebrate exceptional American craft food and drink producers who create distinctive, handcrafted, and sustainable products. The GFA brings together thought leaders from every sector of the food industry to choose the most delicious products from all regions of the country in a blind tasting. Products are evaluated by region, allowing the GFA to showcase the rich variety of terroirs of the nation’s food culture, elevating craft producers with the ultimate aim of stimulating local food economies. After the tasting, high-scoring producers are closely vetted for compliance with GFA requirements for sustainable production practices. Winners and runners-up are evaluated by the Good Food Foundation and announced each January at the Awards Ceremony. Learn more at goodfoodawards.org.

What Lone Tree Brewing Company's GABF Win Means For Craft

Photos by Colin Bridge, Words by Brody Leonard

Since its genesis in 1987, the Great American Beer Festival’s “American-Style Lager” category has been dominated by the goliaths of the beer industry. Pabst Blue Ribbon, Coors Banquet and other such frat party fodder took home the gold year after year. That is until 2017, when the little guys brought out the big guns. This year, Lone Tree Brewing Co. took gold with one well-placed missile: their Mexican Lager.

Straight out of Lone Tree, CO, this small brewery is serving up some game-changing beers. Formerly known as their Summer Siesta Mexican Lager, this brew’s medal marks the first time an independently owned brewery has come out on top in this style category. With movements such as Take Back Craft gaining momentum, this is big news in the brewing community.

That said, it’s not the first time a craft brewery has come close to dethroning the likes of Pabst, Coors and Miller. Lone Tree’s Mexican Lager (under its previous name) earned a silver medal at GABF 2015.

North Carolina-based Sycamore Brewing has also had success in this style category. Their Sun Grown Fresh Craft Lager earned bronze this year, as did their Southern Girl Lager in 2015. In fact, their 2015 bronze medal prompted them to collaborate with Lone Tree Brewing on an Imperial Pale Lager. The result, Breakthrough IPL, was a celebration of the two breweries almost unseating Pabst that year.

This year, almost is no longer. While Lone Tree’s head brewer, Josh West, humbly attributes the win to a “lucky alignment of the judges’ tastes that day,” happenstance seems unlikely.  

Crisp and crushable, Mexican Lagers have been a trending style in the craft beer world. There is no specific Mexican Lager category at GABF— yet— and accordingly, this style is judged under the umbrella of American-Style Lager.

This broad category attracted 75 entries this year. Lone Tree’s victory amounts to more than the gustatory whims of a panel of beer-drinking experts.

After all, the judging process at GABF is an intensive process. Without knowing the beer’s brand or brewery, judges sit down and taste brews to determine three world-class beers in each category. The GABF Awards Philosophy states that a beer must display “the proper balance of taste, aroma and appearance” in order to be awarded a gold medal.

According to the U.S. Brewers Association, an exemplary American-Style Lager should boast a straw or golden hue. Malt sweetness should be very low, as should hop aroma and overall bitterness. In short, “American Lagers [should be] very clean and crisp, and aggressively carbonated.”

Given GABF’s rigorous judging process and the competition-heavy category, Mexican Lager’s performance stands as a testament to the passion and prowess of Josh West and the rest of Lone Tree’s team.

“We were one medal away from winning Small Brewery of the Year,” remarked West. “This year’s medals are immensely motivating — we’re very excited to see what we can do at next year’s Great American Beer Festival.”

Bonfire Brewing Introduces New Kindler Pale Ale Cans

EAGLE, CO — Bonfire Brewing is excited to debut its classic Kindler Pale Ale recipe with refreshed label artwork. Kindler is the second of Bonfire’s cans to get a new look (Demshitz Brown Ale was the first), with new Firestarter IPA, Brush Creek Blonde Ale, and WtFO Double IPA cans coming in early 2018. 

The new Bonfire cans, which feature an adventurer and her pup, were designed by Heather Neale and Riley Cran under the leadership of Bonfire Brewing’s Co-Owner and Art Director Amanda Jessen. “Bonfire beers have proven to be the perfect accompaniment to the adventurous lifestyle that we are so fortunate to experience here in Eagle,” Amanda says. “Whether it’s a summer hike with a four-legged friend or campfire beers after a day on the river, each of our new can designs offers a glimpse into our story, which is both quintessentially Colorado and uniquely Bonfire.”

Bonfire’s design team draws inspiration from its mountain surroundings for its beer names. Kindler was originally brewed in the spring to coincide with the Eagle Valley-wide re-kindling of a desire to get back out on the trails and into the water. Its popularity has since transformed it into a year-round flagship. Kindler is a traditional American Pale featuring Mosaic and Simcoe hops, deliberately designed to impart a more refreshing than bitter hop character. Undergoing seven hop additions to bring it close to the top of the pale ale scale at 42 IBUs, the Kindler has a distinctly fruity hop aroma and finish. 

New Kindler cans are now available at Bonfire Brewing in Eagle, and at liquor stores across Colorado.

The Bonfire Brewing Demshitz American Brown Ale was the first of the Bonfire cans that Amanda and her team refreshed. The new artwork depicts a post-kayak trip van camping scene, featuring a bright orange bonfire, and paying homage to the Demshitz paddling lifestyle.

“Bonfire is all about keeping things fresh for 2018 and beyond, so all cans will eventually have a new look, with each can telling a piece of our ‘Bonfire lifestyle’ story,” Amanda says.

For more information about Bonfire Brewing, contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com. 

ABOUT BONFIRE BREWING

Craft enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers gather around Bonfire Brewing in Eagle, Colorado, where the beers are driven by quality, curiosity, and community. Founded in 2010, Bonfire continues on their path of sustainable growth with cans of their year-round beers available in liquor stores and restaurants across Colorado. Gather ‘round Bonfire online at bonfirebrewing.com.

Bierstadt Lagerhaus & Rackhouse Pub Present Brewers Verbally Punching Each Other In The Face at the Second Annual Ho Ho Ho Slapdown

Photo by The Brewtography Project

DENVER, CO—  On December 3, six brewers will compete for one of the most prestigious and ugliest trophies in all of brewing at the Second Annual Ho Ho Ho Slapdown.

Hosted by Bierstadt Lagerhaus and The Rackhouse at 2875 Blake Street, the Ho Ho Ho Slapdown includes six brewers—Greg Moore of Barrels & Bottles, Jake Gardner of Hogshead, Jon Cross of Call To Arms, Marks Lanham of Comrade Brewing, Brett Williams of Little Machine, and Ashleigh Carter of Bierstadt Lagerhaus-all fake and secretly backstabbing friends compete in this no-holds-barred event. This competition features the winter brews made by each of the contestants with a popular vote deciding the outcome. Shenanigans and smacktalk are not only encouraged, but mandated.

After sampling all of the offerings, the public is invited to vote for their favorite-but it is encouraged to wait for the stump speech delivered by each of the brewers. Getting in the spirit early was Jon Cross of Call To Arms. “Jake Gardner is a talented brewer with an excellent palate, but on December 3, the only thing he’ll be tasting is the back of my hand.”

Tickets are $25 on nightout.com or the day of the event at Bierstadt Lagerhaus/The Rackhouse and includes a 5oz pour of all six (6) beers, voting rights and watching the smack-talk. Event goes from 1:00-4:00pm with smack-talk at 4:00pm and final votes in by 4:45.

For more information contact Bill Eye at bill@bierstadtlager.com.

ABOUT BIERSTADT LAGERHAUS

Bierstadt Lagerhaus is a Lager Brewery specializing in German Style Lagers, located in the heart of Denver’s RiNo Art District – and also the winner of last years’ Slapdown. bierstadt.com 

Wit’s End To Close Current Location, Tap Moving Day Belgian Pale Ale at Strange Craft

Photo by The Brewtography Project 

DENVER, CO —  For every (Wit’s) end, there is a (Strange) new beginning. 

Saturday, November 25 is Wit’s End Brewing’s last day in business at its current location on West 2nd Avenue, Unit 13, 80219. 

On December 1, Strange Craft and Wit’s End Brewing Company will tap their collaboration Moving Day, an Imperial Session Belgian Pale Ale, to commemorate the combining of their brewhouses and tasting rooms.

Moving Day was brewed with oats, wheat, honey, married with Hallertauer Herbrucker and Denali hops, and fermented with a blend of the two brewery’s respective yeast strains. It rings in at 5.5 percent ABV, slightly higher in alcohol than a traditional Belgian Pale, hence its Imperial Session title.  

This beer is a bittersweet celebration of Wit’s End and a Strange Craft’s new venture. “Oats and wheat are Wit’s End and Strange’s adjuncts of choice,” says Wit’s End Founder Scott Witsoe. “We added honey for a sweet counter to the soft herbal bitterness of Hallertauer Herbrucker and Denali hops— for the old and the new... see what we did there?” 

Moving Day will tap at the Strange Craft - Wit’s End Brewing co-tasting room on Zuni Street on December 1 when it opens for business at noon. It will only be available on draft and in Crowlers to-go. Crowlers of Strange and Wit’s End beers will be available at the co-tasting room beginning December 1. 

If you would like more information about Moving Day or Strange Craft and Wit’s End Brewing’s co-habitation 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

Station 26 Brewing Co. Announces Dark Star Varietals, Brewery List, and Bomber Sale for inaugural Black Friday Invitational

DENVER, CO — Station 26 Brewing Co. has finalized the pour list for its upcoming event, the inaugural Black Friday Invitational. 

In past years Station 26 has released its famed Dark Star Barrel-Aged Imperial Stout the day after Thanksgiving. This year the tradition has expanded to include ten variants of this sought-after Stout, as well as beers from other breweries.

Here is the Dark Star variant list—

Almond Joy: toasted coconut, cacao nibs, toasted almond

Mexican Chocolate: Mexican vanilla bean, Saigon cassia, Pequin chiles, cacao nibs

Sesame Brittle: toasted sesame seeds, ginger, toasted coconut, caramel

Root Beer Float: root beer herbs/spices (sarsaparilla, sassafras, ginger, birch bark, licorice root, dandelion root, Cascade hops, wild cherry tree bark, juniper berries, cinnamon), Mexican vanilla

Manhattan: bitters herbs (cardamom, coriander, gentian root, allspice, clove), orange zest

Gingerbread: ginger, vanilla, molasses

IKEA: lingonberry, garnished with Swedish meatballs

The Forager: roasted mushrooms (crimini, shiitake, oyster), red and golden beet, chapulines (grasshoppers), rosemary, thyme, sage

Breakfast: maple syrup, coffee, bacon, blueberry

Black Walnut and Port: Port barrel aged Dark Star with toasted black walnuts

Limited bombers of Almond Joy, Root Beer Float, Manhattan, and Black Walnut and Port will be available for reserve beginning Tuesday, November 14. Guests can pick up bombers beginning Saturday, November 25.

Here is the brewery list — 

4 Noses Brewing Company, Broomfield

Call To Arms Brewing Company, Denver

Powder Keg Brewing Company, Niwot

River North Brewery, Denver

Ratio Beerworks, Denver

TRVE Brewing, Denver

Our Mutual Friend Brewery, Denver

Melvin Brewing, Jackson, WY and Bellingham, WA

Tickets to the Black Friday Invitational cost $55 each, and include a 2.5-hour tasting session, 13 drink tickets for 3oz pours of Dark Star and other specialty beers, passed appetizers, and a commemorative Black Friday Invitational glass. Purchase tickets and reserve bombers via Eventbrite here. 

For more information about this event, contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com.

ABOUT STATION 26 BREWING CO. 

Station 26 Brewing Co. brews craft beers in a 1960 fire station in Denver’s Park Hill neighborhood. The brewery was founded in 2013 by Justin Baccary and friends. It’s an ideal first stop for travelers coming from Denver International Airport. Find the brewery online at www.station26brewing.co.

Portland's Bazi Bierbrasserie Joins Thirsty Monk Family

Photo by Stephanie Yao Long via the Oregonian

PORTLAND, OR— Bazi Bierbrasserie (1522 SE 32 nd Ave – Hawthorne District), Portland’s premiere Belgian and European beer bar announced today its plan to join the Thirsty Monk, Inc. family of breweries and pubs.

“It is with much delight that I announce Bazi Bierbrasserie will be joining the Thirsty Monk family, an organization that shares the same passion for Belgian beer and values a sense of community” says Bazi Owner Hilda Stevens. “This provides an opportunity for my employees’ growth aspirations in the service industry while also aligning with an institution that embraces crafting exceptional Belgian-inspired beers and providing a superior customer experience."

Over the past six years, Bazi Bierbrasserie has become a Belgo aficionado oasis, quickly receiving recognition in hop-centric Portland and at the national level. Bazi Bierbrasserie was named “Top 100 Beer Bars in America” by DRAFT Magazine for three consecutive years, “Top Beer Bars in Portland” by the Oregonian and Thrillist, “Portland No. 1 Soccer Pub” by the Oregonian, and “SE Portland Best Happy Hours” by Willamette Week.

"Bazi and Thirsty Monk have been on such similar paths since inception, with the experiences we offer patrons and seats on the same “Top 100 Beer Bars” lists," says Thirsty Monk CEO Barry Bialik. "Hilda’s values, attention to detail, and compassion towards her employees resonates strong at Bazi, and those are all shared values of Thirsty Monk that make this additional of them to our family feel even more natural."

Stevens will stay on staff at the Portland Thirsty Monk to help though the transition to ensure clientele continues to receive the same level of customer service they've come to expect at Bazi. "I’ve lived in Portland for 20 years and I’ll always be grateful for the opportunity to grow a business in such a welcoming community, but after Hurricane Harvey my priorities have changed personally. My intention is to eventually head south to be closer to my siblings and parents in Houston," she says.

Bazi will officially become part of the Thirsty Monk family in mid-December, and the space will take on the Thirsty Monk name in early 2018. Plans include adding a small batch brewhouse in Portland. 

Thirsty Monk is also expanding to Denver, Colorado. Read that press release here. 

For information about this news, 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. Thirsty Monk is expanding its brewing operation to Denver, CO later this year. Find the company online at monkpub.com.

ABOUT BAZI BIERBRASSERIE

If Monks lived in Portland, this would be their watering hole. Bazi brings centuries of Belgian-inspired beer and food under one roof plus a premium liquor selection. Explore with a nationally recognized Bier-Cocktail or simply sip on a glass of wine. As a Euro-centric establishment Bazi embraces bringing community together through sports. The bar is an official Thorns, Timbers, Liverpool FC and American Outlaws partner, and showcase these and other events on our 114" HDTV with surround sound. Named “No 1 Soccer Pub” by The Oregonian 2016, “Top 100 Beer Bars in America” by DRAFT Magazine 2014, 1015, 2016 and “Top 10 Best Beer Bars in Portland” by The Oregonian, 2014. Located in the heart of the Hawthorne District, tucked away just off of SE 32nd Avenue. Find Bazi online at bazipdx.com.

English Old Ale From Lone Tree Brewing Co. Now Available

LONE TREE, CO — Lone Tree Brewing Company released its 2017 batch of English Old Ale this week. This winter seasonal ale brewed with cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice was formerly called Arctic Spice Old Ale. It belongs to the brewery’s Branching Out Series of experimental, limited quantity beers in large format bottles.

This beer’s spices follow aromatics of dark fruit on the nose. The first sip of this 8 percent ABV Old Ale delivers notes of sweet, rich molasses. Roasted malts mingled with earthy hop notes round out the finish. It’s a hearty beer that holds its own in winter weather.

Bombers of Lone Tree English Old Ale will be available at liquor stores across Colorado while supplies last.  

For more information about this beer 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.

Advice from the Trail: David Wright on Brewery Event Planning

RadCraft is excited to announce our RadCrafter series! Each volume of Craft Marketing showcases a Featured Crafter— a craft marketing professional who is crafting content, telling stories, and curating resources about the beer industry. RadCrafters are helping to shape and share the culture that is craft beer. 

First up is our dear friend and first-ever RadCraft employee David Wright. He’s passionate about beer, specifically beer that’s inspired by the outdoors. He’s also an event planner extraordinaire and a master herder of brewer cats. David has worked at RadCraft, Epic Brewing, Great Divide Brewing Co., and now Scratch Brewing Company.

David has also worked as the Colorado Director and Development Manager of the Beers Made By Walking program that invites brewers to go on nature hikes and urban walks, and make new beers inspired by edible plants.

It should be noted that when we caught up with David at Scratch Brewing Co., he was sipping Denver's incredible Corvus Coffee and rocking a t-shirt from our friends Fonta Flora Brewery in Morganton, North Carolina. Thanks for supporting other great crafters, David!

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.