Thirsty Monk Wins Best of Craft Beer Award; Named Best Bar in NC by RateBeer.com

Thirsty Monk took home a gold medal in the Belgian-Style Table Beer category in the Best of Craft Beer Awards today. 

Wiser Monk is a refreshing Belgian-style table beer with mild hints of fruit and spice on the nose, flavors of light grains, and a trace of herbal hop in its clean finish. It weighs in at 4.5 percent ABV. Wiser Monk was one of 11 entries in the 2018 Best of Craft Beer Awards. This year's silver medal was awarded to Birds Fly South Ale Project for Weatherman and bronze to Abbey Brewing Company for Monks' Ale. Find the complete list of 2018 winners here.

Also this month Thirsty Monk Brewery & Pub was named the best bar in North Carolina in the RateBeer.com Best Places for Beer by Subregion for 2017. Find that list here.

Winter Craft Celebrates Independence in Year Four

Joining the movement to help consumers understand which craft breweries are independent, WCBF only accepting independently operated brewers.

On March 3, 2018 ROTR Events will be celebrating the 4th annual Winter Craft Beer Festival (WCBF) here in Boulder. The event will take place again at the 29th Street mall in Boulder in the covered and heated portion of the underground parking structure. Last year Winter Craft boasted 50 breweries from eight states in attendance and the organizers are predicting a similar lineup to last year’s, with one twist. “The world of craft has become murky and confusing. So we will only be inviting independent brewers to this year’s fest, says co-founder Ross Bowdey. We don’t care how big the brewery is or where they come from, but we want to help the independent brewers continue to grow. Our attendees will leave knowing the breweries who attended are some of the best independent breweries in Colorado and beyond.” The event will also include food trucks, live music and many other fun surprises.

Ross Bowdey and Trevor Rhodes started the festival back in 2015 to celebrate the different styles of craft beer that show up in the winter months. They chose to host it in their hometown Boulder, Colorado as they felt it had the space for a larger style festival and has proven to be a craft beer mecca. “Beer festivals can be a great way to introduce all levels of beer drinkers to new things happening in the industry.” says co-founder Ross Bowdey. “*Beginner drinkers* have an opportunity to taste lesser known styles like saisons, sours or even tea infused beer. They get to discover what a large spectrum of beer styles exist today. The “beer nerds” will have a chance to try new styles from some of their favorite breweries and to figure out which up and coming taprooms to fill their growlers at this winter season.”

The festival raises funds for a local nonprofit, Community Cycles. Through the partnership last year they were able to raise over $4,000 for this great organization and hope to double that in 2018. WCBF has also had a great relationship with our premier sponsors, Hazel’s Beverage World in Boulder and KBCO radio, since the very beginning. “One of our main goals in starting the event was to create a space where brewers, sponsors, vendors, food trucks, our nonprofit partner, our venue and our attendees all leave the day feeling that they won. A major part of Craft Beer’s DNA is community and we want this to be a great extension of creating that community.”

WCBF has multiple levels of ticketing for the event. General admission gets you four hours of unlimited two-ounce samples of all the beers and ciders. VIP entry gets you in an hour early and this year they will get exclusive access to rare beers from 20+ of the brewers in attendance. They also have a $5 entry for designated drivers to encourage responsible drinking. “One of the reasons we love hosting WCBF at 29th street is its central location. When the festival ends at 5pm you don’t have to call it a night. People can keep the fun going at the nearby restaurants and shops that are all within walking distance.”

The lineup of brewers at WCBF promises to be the best ever as they bring in new and old independent brewers from around Colorado and across the country. The current lineup boasts 45 breweries from eight states accounting for 183 GABF medals. Melvin, Surly & New Holland are some of the out of state additions this year, with great Colorado stalwarts like Left Hand, Odell & Great Divide. “There is no better way to spend a Saturday afternoon in Boulder”, says Bowdey, “Amazing beer, people, music, and food, all for a good cause. This fourth year is not to be missed.”

If you would like more information on Winter Craft Beer Festival, contact Ross Bowdey at 303.748.3478 or ross@wintercraftbeerfestival.com.

Lessons Learned From A Month of #DailyStout Tasting

Photo by Jeff Tyler

In Colorado, February is Stout Month. It’s a short but passionate 28 days dedicated to the full-bodied, roasty, coffee-esque, malt-forward wonder that is the Stout beer style.

I love Stout, but I don’t always reach for it over other styles. I also love a good challenge.

So when a friend suggested I fully explore this beer style by tasting a different Stout every day last February, I gladly accepted. And to what was often the chagrin of my partner, I did it.

I tasted a different Stout each day in February 2017 and documented the process on social media using hashtag #dailystout. I held myself accountable for tasting at least one different Stout every day. Thirst Magazine caught on to what I was up to and they published this article about my Stout recommendations.

Stout came to be my daily liquid bread— after a month I had discovered its versatility, and I craved it. When Stout Month ended, #dailystout did not. I kept tasting and researching the style. One year later, here’s what I’ve come to know about Stout…

• There is a style of Stout for everyone.

• Stout comes with a dark beer stigma, and the style is generally misunderstood— even among craft beer drinkers.

• Stout is not Porter.

• Stout Month is one of my favorite craft marketing campaigns.

• Stout is for whiskey lovers.

• Stout can develop incredible nuanced flavor and aroma over time, if you know a thing or two about cellaring beers.

• Stout is a food-friendly beer, perfect for pairings.

• Stout is a blank canvas for a cornucopia of abstract beer ingredients.

• Stout is scarce in island communities. More on that later.

• Stout is a foundation for good causes.

2018 Stout Month is upon us and the #dailystout ritual returns! This year it’s dedicated to raising funds for the conservation of clean water, a resource that the brewing industry continues to consume more and more of. I've recruited fellow Stout tasters too. 

Throughout the month of February, we're drinking #dailystout to raise funds for Water For Good. This organization creates long-term partnerships with communities in Africa, empowering them with sustainable access to clean water and transformational development solutions. Water For Good was a natural partner for our #dailystout campaign because Africa is responsible for much of the world’s production and consumption of Stout... And we think what they're up to is pretty rad.

Whether you can donate or not, we hope you’ll join the #dailystout hashtag on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to help us spread the word.

Cheers to Stout Month!

 — Emily Hutto, RadCraft Founder

Bonfire Brewing Partners With Outdoor Adventure Quest on 2018 Winter Adventure Quest, February 9-11

EAGLE, CO — Bonfire Brewing Company is stoked to announce a partnership with Outdoor Adventure Quest and provide yet another opportunity to get out, explore Colorado, and enjoy great beer. 

Outdoor Adventure Quest is a “build-your-own-adventure” challenge with more than 1,000 challenge tasks spanning 12 sporting categories including hiking, biking, climbing, paddle, camping, outdoor education, and breweries. Teams will be able to earn points at Bonfire Brewing by picking up beer-to-go, playing games, and spinning the “Beer Wheel”. 

Questers will spend February 9–11 exploring Colorado, earning points along the way through the Outdoor Adventure Quest App’s live scoreboard. Teams can start and end anywhere in the state, and if they gather ‘round at Bonfire Brewing to plan or conclude their adventure they’ll score some bonus points.

Participants can sign up for the Winter Adventure Quest at outdooradventurequest.com and are invited to meet at Bonfire Brewing before the Quest to plan out their adventure with teammates. Use the code BONFIRE at checkout for 50 percent off registration. Participants who use the code receive a free beer at the taproom with proof of their confirmation email.

For more information about Bonfire Brewing, contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com. With inquiries about Outdoor Adventure Quest, contact Lindsey Beres at lindsey.beres@outdooradventurequest.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.

Order’s Up at Station 26 Brewing Company’s New Food Truck, Order 26

DENVER, CO — The Order 26 Food Truck at Station 26 Brewing Company is now open for business under the leadership of Station 26 Operations Manager Dustin Darker and Head Chef Jac Gregory.

Order 26 is a New American Mobile Diner with seasonal and rotating daily specials to complement the staple items, such as the Truck-fil-a Chicken Sandwich and Smothered Tots. The truck has monthly pop-ups in the works too— look for more on its upcoming Chinese New Year celebration and Ramen Pop-Up soon. Click here for the menu.

“The addition of Order 26 is an improvement on our craft beer business model without diluting our brand,” says Station 26 Founder Justin Baccary. Order 26 will offer Station 26 customers consistent, quality food options that reflect the brewing company’s overall mission— it will use compostable plates and silverware, recycle its cooking oil for bio-fuel, and offer beer pairing suggestions for its menu items.

Order 26 will be open daily from 3-9pm M-F, 1-9pm Saturday, and 1-8pm Sunday. Later in 2018, guests can expect collaborations with local chefs, lunch hours, and more.

Learn more about Order 26 on the Station 26 Brewing blog. 

For more information about Order 26 at Station 26 Brewing Co., 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.

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!