Karl Strauss Presents 31st Anniversary Scotch Ale

SAN DIEGO, CA— Legacy San Diego brewery Karl Strauss Brewing Company celebrated its 31st anniversary earlier this month with the release of their Barrel Aged Scotch Ale.

KARL’s 31st Anniversary Ale is a traditional Scotch Ale aged for 12 months in American whiskey barrels. This 11% ABV beauty was the brainchild of Karl Strauss Head Brewer Sean Albrecht. “I wanted to brew a beer that could handle aging in fresh American whiskey barrels for an entire year.” he says. “This style is malty and strong, one of the closest beer styles to whiskey, with tons of caramel notes and a full body. This beer will get more complex the longer it sits— at proper cellar temperature of course— but it’s got a nice "heat" to it now that will remind you of your favorite whiskey, or even scotch.” 

Karl Strauss Barrel-Aged 31st Anniversary Scotch Ale is available in 500mL bombers across California while supplies last. 

2020 marks the 10th year of the Changing of the Barrels anniversary tradition at Karl Strauss in which the brewery invites guests to taste the following year’s anniversary ale before it lays to rest in barrels for the next year. The Karl Struass 32nd anniversary ale is a Coconut Imperial Stout that will age in whiskey barrels.

The Karl Strauss launch date, February 2nd, was named an official Day in History by Mayor Kevin Faulconer and the city of San Diego at the 2019 Changing of the Barrels celebration. For more information about either the 31st or 32nd anniversary beers, or with any other Karl Strauss inquiries, contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.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 Boat Shoes Hazy IPA. The brewery has won 110 medals since 2009 and was honored with the “Mid-Size Brewing Company of the Year” award at the Great American Beer Festival in 2016. For more information, visit www.karlstrauss.com or call the brewery at (858) 273-2739. Share it. Cheers. 

Brink Brewing Releases More Than 20 New Beers For Third Anniversary

CINCINNATI, OH— Award-winning College Hill brewing company Brink Brewing presents a weekend of bottle releases and events for its 3rd anniversary.

WHAT: Brink Brewing will celebrate three successful years in business this month with a weekend full of bottle releases and special events at the brewery in Cincinnati’s College Hill neighborhood.

On Friday, Brink will release a limited edition and bottled oak-aged 3rd Anniversary Blend blend and several other new beers, including an array of barrel-aged variants including BA Moozie Rye, BA Bulldog Jefferson Ocean, BA Imperial Moozie with Blueberry, BA Duncan Claw, and BA Kelly’s Candy Barleywine. Additional special releases on Friday include DDH Tom Brady's Tears, Tropical Sour Pie, Pumpkin Moozie, and Maple + Toffee Father G's Bees. 

On Saturday, Brink will release two bottled variants of its popular King Cake beer: Toasted Coconut and Cinnamon. Inspired by world famous King Cake of New Orleans and Mardi Gras, this base beer was originally brewed in collaboration with BrewRiver Creole Kitchen and Brink’s homebrewing friend Chris Mitchell. It is pilsner malt based with added lactose and oats, and hopped with Mandarina Bavaria hops. Brink will roll out a Pineapple Upside Down King Cake variant, in addition to Raspberry Flying Peanut, Tiramisu Stout with Deeper Roots espresso, and Black Currant Wheat. Brink will host the Stellar Street Eats truck beginning at 9:30am for brunch, and the Che Food Truck beginning at 1pm.

Sunday February 23 is Brink’s College Hill Day & Family Funday. Wear a College Hill Brink shirt, and don’t miss the College Hill photo at 3pm! A portion of the proceeds from Sunday's sales will be donated to College Hill Community Urban Redevelopment Corporation (CHCURC). Sunday’s special beer releases include Clementine Tom Brady's Tears NEIPA, Blackberry Grisette Family Vacation, Red Currant Debbie Jean Blonde, and Smoked Chili Tiramisu Stout. The MashRoots, (who will soon open their brick and mortar restaurant next door to Brink) will begin a pop-up on Sunday beginning at 1pm. 

WHERE: Brink Brewing, 5905 Hamilton Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45224

WHEN: Friday, February 21 to Sunday, February 23 

Contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com with media inquiries about Brink Brewing.

ABOUT BRINK BREWING

Brink Brewing Co is a craft brewery in the College Hill neighborhood of Cincinnati that serves some of Ohio’s most decorated beers. Since Brink’s opening in 2017, the brewing team has accumulated an impressive 22 awards and a World Beer Cup plaque. Brink was honored at the Great American Beer Festival® as Very Small Brewing Company of the Year both in 2018 and 2019. For more information visit brinkbrewing.com.

Karl Strauss Anaheim Presents Five-Course Beer Dinner on February 29

SAN DIEGO, CA— Karl Strauss Brewing Company is hosting the third installment of their ongoing beer dinner series on Saturday, February 29 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Located at the Anaheim location (2390 East Orangewood Ave. Anaheim, CA, 92806), this “leap year” inspired beer dinner showcases hops from all over the world paired with dishes that complement the same flavors (think piney, fruity, spicy and floral). 

Curated by Chef Kevin Jones and Brewer Jarrod Davis, this inspired beer pairing is a great way to experience the world of hops through good food and delicious beer.

• First course: Beer Steamed Mussels – Chorizo – Poblano Cream – Crostini

• Second course: Lamb Lollipop – Lemongrass Scented – Kumquat – Herbed Bulgar

• Third course: Cedar Plank Salmon – Hop Salt – Oven Dried Tomato – Pinenut

• Fourth course: Braised Beef Short Rib – Smoked Cheddar Mash – Black Garlic Demi

• Fifth course: Coconut Gelato – Matcha Crème Anglaise – Tuile

Tickets for this decadent event costs $65 per person, which includes a pre-dinner happy hour in the brewery with a 9-oz pour and a seat at the five-course beer pairing dinner.

For more information about the Karl Strauss beer dinner, contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com.

ABOUT KARL STRAUSS BREWING COMPANY

Karl Strauss Brewing Company has been proudly independent since 1989, pioneering the craft beer scene with innovative and award-winning beer releases like Aurora Hoppyalis IPA, Queen of Tarts Dark Sour, and Boat Shoes Hazy IPA. For more information, visit www.karlstrauss.com or call the brewery at (858) 273-2739. Share it. Cheers.

The Mammoths, Mo Lowda & the Humble Added to Bonfire Block Party Lineup

Photo courtesy The Mammoths and Mo Lowda & the Humble

EAGLE, CO – Bonfire Brewing and Optimum Events announced two more main stage acts to play the 2020 Bonfire Block Party taking place Friday, June 12 through Sunday, June 14. The Mammoths and Mo Lowda & the Humble will join other groups, yet-to-be-announced, as part of the multi-day street festival held in downtown Eagle, CO. Early Bird GA and regularly priced VIP Experience tickets are on sale now.

The Mammoths are an up-and-coming Austin band fueled by their fiery and unapologetic stage presence reminiscent of a young Led Zeppelin. Over the past few years, they have evolved from garage band rock to sophisticated blues funk and their live shows are not to be missed. 

Philadelphia-based indie rockers, Mo Lowda & the Humble are known as a tireless touring band with more than 100 live shows each year, gracing the stages of Firefly Music Festival, The Peach Music Festival and Mountain Jam, to name a few. Their latest album “Creatures” (2018) received rave reviews and their upcoming full-length recording “Ready Coat” drops on March 6. 

The two bands join previously announced Keller Williams’ Grateful Grass as part of the eighth annual Bonfire Block Party musical line up. The full festival lineup will be announced on Friday, Feb. 21. Tickets for the 2020 Block Party are on sale now and include limited Early Bird Two-Day General Admission tickets, regularly priced Two-Day VIP Experience tickets and Bloodies & Bluegrass brunch tickets, which include bottomless Bloody Marys and mimosas. 

The Block Party features nationally renowned bands performing on three stages, bar service including Bonfire Brewing craft beer and local food vendors in the streets of downtown Eagle. Kids 12 and under are free for General Admission, and two and under are free for the VIP Experience and Sunday’s Bloodies & Bluegrass event.

A portion of all Bonfire Block Party proceeds benefit Eagle County nonprofit partner, The Cycle Effect. For more information and to purchase tickets online, visit www.bonfireblockparty.com.

IF YOU GO:

What: 2020 Bonfire Block Party

When: Friday, June 12 - Sunday, June 14

Where:  Downtown Eagle, CO

Cost: $30 - $140

More Information: visit www.bonfireblockparty.com

Canceled: New Orleans Funk Band Galactic to headline Craft After Dark at the Craft Brewers Conference in San Antonio on April 21

UPDATE on March 16, 2020: This event is canceled as a COVID-19 precaution.

SAN ANTONIO, TX— Hosted by Ska Fabricating, Ska Brewing, Wild Goose Filling, and presenting sponsor American Canning, Craft After Dark is an exclusive evening of live music, drinking and dancing for charity. This premiere event anchors the 2020 Craft Brewers Conference and BrewExpo America (CBC) in San Antonio Texas on Tuesday, April 21 at local venue The Rock Box.

Hailing from New Orleans, longstanding funk and jazz band Galactic will bring down the house with support from San Antonio’s impressive pool of local talent.

Entry is free on a first-come, first-served basis to anyone with a Craft Brewers Conference badge or a sponsor-provided wrist band. Proceeds from this event will be donated to Plastic Oceans, a nonprofit organization raising awareness about plastic pollution to inspire a global movement to re-think our use of plastic.

Craft After Dark continues in the place of We Can Jam, a charity concert first hosted by Wild Goose–Meheen and Everybody’s Brewing in 2015. The events held in 2015 and 2016 raised a combined $25,000 for Athletes for Cancer and Cathedral Kitchen. Since then, the event has continued raising tens of thousands of dollars for local charities while promoting the best of craft beverage producers in the cities that have hosted CBC.

In addition to Ska Brewing, Ska Fabricating and Wild Goose, sponsors of Craft After Dark include presenting sponsor American Canning, as well as Chart Inc, Filtec, Modular Conveyor, RadCraft, Markem-Imaje, Siemens, Pack Leader USA, Festo and Five Star Chemicals, and CMC Kuhnke. Beer and beverages sponsored by Blue Owl Brewing, Hops & Grain, Buffalo Bayou Brewing Company, Ska Brewing and Oh Hi Beverages.

For more information about Craft After Dark, contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com.

ABOUT SKA FABRICATING

Founded by Ska Brewing Co-Owner Matt Vincent, Ska Fabricating automates packaging lines for craft businesses, specializing in depalletizers, palletizers, conveyance systems, rinsing, drying, fill detection and date coding products. With more than 800 customers worldwide, Ska Fab has the products and experience to help you increase your production while saving expense. Learn more at skafabricating.com.

ABOUT SKA BREWING

Based in Durango, Colorado, Ska Brewing was founded in 1995 and produces more than a dozen award-winning beers fueled with Ska music, and lots of it. Pioneers in the canned craft beer movement, Ska Brewing is known for an array of styles in 12 oz cans that include Mexican Logger, Modus Hoperandi, and Rue B. Soho. For information (a lot of it), more music, and a good time, visit skabrewing.com.

ABOUT WILD GOOSE CANNING

With decades of experience in brewing, canning, and bottling craft beverages, Wild Goose Filling Systems provides filling systems for beer, cider, kombucha, cannabis, wine, and other ready-to-drink beverages. Having pioneered the first craft canning and bottling systems on the market, Wild Goose systems have patented technology that maintains the highest quality levels for packaged beverages. Their expertise in engineering and focus on craft beverages sets them apart from other systems on the market. With unmatched efficiency, operational control and excellence in customer service, Wild Goose provides canning and bottling systems to thousands of customers around the globe. To find out more, visit wgcanning.com.

Thirsty Monk Brewery Pairs Up with Tight Tacos in Hawthorne After Popular Food Truck Forced to Vacate Growler’s Taproom

PORTLAND, OR— Thirsty Monk, brewer of Belgian-Rooted Modern Ales and operator of world-recognized craft beer bars, announced today it will welcome their friends at Tight Tacos Food Truck into the kitchen at their Hawthorne Street location after a landlord dispute led to the closing of Growler’s Taproom last week, leaving the street taco purveyor without a space.

“We’ve been searching for just the right food partner to share their passions with our Thirsty Monk Brewery patrons for a few months now,” says Barry Bialik, Thirsty Monk CEO. “When we heard about Tight Tacos possibly needing a new home, we reached out right away. Mark and I were able to put our entrepreneurial energies and synergies together and get to a 1am handshake emoji in just a matter of days. I’m so excited to help a neighbor business and be able to offer our patrons delicious tacos, while allowing us to focus our passions on what we are best at— beers and cocktails,” says Bialik.

Thirsty Monk will be closed February 8 - 28 so that Tight Tacos can move into their kitchen. To accommodate the new food partnership, Thirsty Monk will shed a few more remnants of its former European soccer bar vibe and incorporate elements of the Tight Tacos branding. The brewery taproom will reopen with Thirsty Monk taps only, craft cocktails and of course, delicious tacos from Tight Tacos.

“Since we started Tight Tacos in 2016, our goal has always been to use our food as a means of bringing people together to have a good time. And what better way to do that than with beer and tacos?” says Mark Cosio, owner at Tight Tacos .“The Tight Tacos team is extremely excited to be partnering with Thirsty Monk.” In addition to their new location at Thirsty Monk, Tight Tacos also has a brick and mortar shop at The Zipper. 

Thirsty Monk has proudly served Portland’s Hawthorne neighborhood since its opening in summer 2018 on the corner of 32nd and Hawthorne Streets. Prior to the brewery closing for renovations with Tight Tacos, Thirsty Monk will offer special deals on coveted Belgian bottles.

To discuss Thirsty Monk Portland’s partnership with Tight Tacos, contact Barry Bialik at barry@monkpub.com.

ABOUT THIRSTY MONK

Founded in 2008, Thirsty Monk Brewery currently operates a family of brewpubs (Thirsty Monk Downtown, Thirsty Monk Biltmore Park, 2x4 Brew Pub) and cocktail bars (Monk’s Flask, Top of the Monk) in Asheville, North Carolina, Denver, Colorado and Portland, Oregon. Thirsty Monk’s award-winning, Belgian-rooted Modern Ales are showcased in the company’s expertly crafted beer-paired food menus and synergistic cocktail ingredients. Find the company online at monkpub.com.

Root Shoot Malting Welcomes Craft Malt Conference to Colorado with Collaboration Beers

FORT COLLINS, CO— Root Shoot Malting is excited to welcome craft brewers and maltsters to Colorado for the 2020 Craft Malt Conference to be held in Fort Collins beginning February 7. The Loveland-based maltster has crafted 10 collaboration beers with local breweries and malting companies to celebrate this third annual industry conference, located in Colorado for the first time. 

Available both at the conference and at the respective brewing companies, Root Shoot has crafted collaborations with Gilded Goat Brewing Company, New Belgium Brewing, Horse & Dragon Brewing, TRVE Brewing, Intersect Brewing, CB & Potts Restaurant & Brewery, Timnath Beerwerks, City Star Brewing, Purpose Brewing & Cellars, and the CSU Ramskeller brewery. These beers were crafted with malt from Root Shoot, Troubadour Maltings, Grouse Malt House, Colorado Malting Company, Riverbend Malthouse, Sugar Creek Malt, Epiphany Malthouse, Red Shed Malting, Gallatin Valley Malt, Admiral Maltings, Maltwerks, and Mecca Grande Estate Malt. Each of these beers was crafted with malt from at least two craft maltsters. 

"Our Colorado craft brewers are a large part of the local community, and we found it fitting to involve malthouses from across the country in celebrating another year of craft malt evolution,” says Todd Olander of Root Shoot Malting. “Our Root Shoot Malting team makes a large effort to build relationships and engage with brewers. We wanted to integrate and pass along the collaborative efforts to the craft malting industry."

Learn more about the Craft Malt Conference put on by the Craft Maltsters Guild at craftmalting.com. For more details about each of these collaboration beers, or with media inquiries about Root Shoot Malting, contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com. 

ABOUT ROOT SHOOT MALTING 

Root Shoot Malting’s family of farmers grow, harvest and malt the finest grains to give brewers and distillers high-quality taste in every glass. Opened in 2016 on 1,500 acres of Olander Farms’ irrigated land in Loveland, Colorado, Root Shoot harvests alfalfa, wheat, corn, rye, and barley. Root Shoot gives breweries and distilleries the ability to procure local, consistent and high quality craft products. Find this craft maltster online at rootshootmalting.com.

Ska Street Brewstillery Adds to Cast of Characters With New Hires; Job Fair on February 3

DURANGO, CO— Ska Brewing and Peach Street Distillers have hired Damon Scott as Head Brewstiller and Katie Nierling as General Manager of the Ska Street Brewstillery, slated to open in March. Ska Street is also hosting open interviews on February 3.

As Head Brewstiller for Ska Street Brewstillery, Scott will brew and distill pilot batches and new products in collaboration with Ska Brewing Company and Peach Street Distillers. Previously, as technical brewing projects manager for the Brewers Association, he worked with industry leaders to develop resources for craft brewers. In 2010, Damon attended Heriot-Watt University and received an MSc degree in Brewing and Distilling. He has brewed at and managed brewing operations in Colorado and Washington breweries over the last decade. 

“Having worked in Durango as a brewer for years, Ska was always at the center of my craft beer universe,” Scott says. “When I heard about the collaborative concept they were planning with Peach Street in Boulder, I jumped at the chance to finally work with these pioneering misfits! I'm stoked to help bring some new beers and spirits to the mix of outstanding liquids we'll have from our two motherships.” 

As General Manager for Ska Street Brewstillery, Katie Nierling will manage front-of-house operations at the new restaurant and 30 tap brewstillery bar. Nierling comes from Parry’s Pizza and the former Breckenridge-Wynkoop group where she worked at Ale House at Amato’s. 

“I believe strongly in the mindset to grow your business with drive and innovation— and that is exactly what we are doing at Ska Street,” Nierling says. “We’re bridging the Western Slope gap to the Front Range. I really look forward to welcoming guests in for a true sensory experience with our love for music, ingredients sourced from all around Colorado, our award winning Ska brews and classic Peach Street Distillers spirits.” 

Ska Street will host open interviews this coming Monday, February 3 from 9am to 5pm at the Brewstillery located at 1600 38th Street in Boulder, Colorado. Interested candidates should bring copies of their resumes, and visit www.skastreet.com/jobs for more information.

Contact Chea Franz at chea@radcraftbeer.com for more information about Ska Brewing and Peach Street Distillers’ new Ska Street Brewstillery.

ABOUT SKA BREWING

Based in Durango, Colorado, Ska Brewing was founded in 1995 and produces more than a dozen award- winning beers fueled with Ska music, and lots of it. Pioneers in the canned craft beer movement, Ska Brewing is known for an array of styles in 12 oz cans that include Mexican Logger, Modus Hoperandi, and Rue B. Soho. For information (a lot of it), more music, and a good time, visit www.skabrewing.com.

ABOUT PEACH STREET DISTILLERS

Peach Street Distillers was founded in 2005 in the heart of Colorado’s Fruit and Wine region, Palisade Colorado, where the high desert meets the mountains.  The warm days and cool nights in Palisade make the local fruits and grains unimaginably delicious.  Living the very definition of “craft” we do everything the hard way to turn these fermentable raw materials into extraordinary spirits.  Because, this is what we consider fun and what makes for a mighty fine drink.  Peach Street Distillers is Colorado’s oldest continuously owned and operated distillery. Visit Peach Street at www.peachstreetdistillers.com for more about the spirits and the spirits squad.

The Empourium Releases The Nightman Cometh Schwarzbier for Tennyson First Friday

WHAT: The Empourium will release The Nightman Cometh Schwarzbier on Friday, February 7 as part of the Tennyson neighborhood’s First Friday activities. 

The Nightman Cometh Schwarzbier was inspired by the show It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia. Whether you are a champion of the sun or a master of karate, this smooth, sessionable black lager is the perfect way to round out the winter season. It rocks hints of dark chocolate and roast that finish clean and dry. At only 4.9%, you should probably have another for good measure. 

Little Red’s Kitchen will serve a special Philly-themed menu for this First Friday tapping. Find more details in this Facebook event.

WHEN: Friday, February 7 from 12pm to 11pm

WHERE: The Empourium Brewing Company, 4385 W 42nd Ave, Denver, Colorado 80212

Contact Erin Hamrick at erin@radcraftbeer.com for more information about The Nightman Cometh or The Empourium Brewing Company.

ABOUT THE EMPOURIUM BREWING COMPANY

Located in the heart of Denver’s Berkeley Neighborhood, The Empourium is a gathering place for all— patrons and beer styles alike. Armed with true to style recipes and local pride, owners Greg and Sara Fetzer, Mike Cugini, and Justin Vallely focus their efforts to craft a warm, lively community hub centered around balanced, sessionable beers guaranteed to bring people together. Visit The Empourium at 4385 W. 42nd Avenue or online at theempourium.com

Ska Brewing Announces Brand Refresh; Rolls Out New Cans

DURANGO, CO— Fresh renditions of Ska Brewing Modus Hoperandi, Modus Mandarina, True Blonde Ale, Rue B. Soho, and Pink Vapor Stew cans are now hitting shelves across Ska’s distribution footprint as part of the company’s 2020 brand refresh.

Since Ska Brewing launched its brand 25 years ago, the comic book has always represented the company’s core values and mission. The company slogan characters brewing beers with character has come to life on Ska’s packaged brands, each can representing a different snippet of that original comic book story… until The Hazy IPA came along. 

When Ska debuted its first hazy beer in a can in 2019, they designed the artwork without a character or a punny name associated with the beer style as they have other year-round brands. Instead the artwork pops with bold colors and Ska’s trademark checkerboard stripe— a nod to the 2 Tone wave of Ska music— that wraps the can. These comic book elements ultimately inspired Ska’s entire can refresh, and can also be found on the design of Ska’s new canned seltzer line. 

Consistent with much of Ska’s other branding, the signature checkerboard stripe is included on each new can. While new cans will not feature characters from comic books, they will retain classic comic book elements such as the blamo and bold colors to really stand out on shelves. The new look will help provide a consistent and recognizable look across Ska’s family of brands. 

“We’ll never “rebrand” altogether because we feel branding is an evolution,” says Ska Brewing co-founder and CEO Dave Thibodeau. “We’ve been changing our brand since day one, but we’ll never stray too far from what it means to be Ska.” 

Find the same great Modus Hoperandi, Modus Mandarina, True Blonde Ale, Rue B. Soho, and Pink Vapor Stew recipes in new cans wherever you buy Ska beer. The brewery will announce more can artwork updates in coming months. 

For more information about Ska Brewing, contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com.

ABOUT SKA BREWING

Based in Durango, Colorado, Ska Brewing was founded in 1995 and produces more than a dozen award- winning beers fueled with Ska music, and lots of it. Pioneers in the canned craft beer movement, Ska Brewing is known for an array of styles in 12 oz cans that include Mexican Logger, Modus Hoperandi, and Rue B. Soho. For information (a lot of it), more music, and a good time, visit www.skabrewing.com.

After a Few Laughs and Eye Rolls, Endo Brewing Company Expands Their Portfolio to Include Hard Seltzer

LAFAYETTE, CO — Endo Brewing Company will tap their first hard seltzer in their tasting room on Wednesday, January 22 at 3 p.m. The bike-themed brewery created the gluten-free, hard sparkling water so that all guests could enjoy well-rounded libations.

“Endo Brewing exists for the sole purpose of giving the cycle-riding weekend warriors, the beer enthusiasts, and our neighbors an amazing place to experience all things bicycle and beer. Nothing ruins that experience faster than having to exclude someone,” says Kevin Van Winkle, co-founder and head brewer at Endo Brewing.

Cheekily named I Roll, Endo Brewing first rolled their eyes at the thought of creating a hard seltzer and then decided to roll with it. Infused with copious amounts of berry and lime, I Roll Hard Seltzer is gluten-free, only 98 calories, and an approachable 4.4 percent ABV per glass—perfect for a refreshing post-ride quencher or if you want to wash down that extra slice of pizza guilt-free.

So ride into 2020 with more options; I Roll Lime and Berry Infused Hard Seltzer will be available at Endo Brewing’s tasting room starting on January 22.  

“We're not here to argue with you about your beverage choices; we'd rather put a pint in front of you and hear your laughable thoughts on owning that rigid fixie bike,” laughs Van Winkle.

For more information about Endo Brewing’s new hard seltzer or any of their beer offerings, contact Chea Franz at chea@radcraftbeer.com.

ABOUT ENDO BREWING

Founded in 2017 by two guys with a passion for craft beer and bikes, Endo Brewing Company is a community-driven neighborhood brewery located in Lafayette, Colorado. Housed in a former five-bay auto repair shop, Endo Brewing has converted this unique space into a vibrant tasting room offering quality beer in a warm and friendly atmosphere and a state-of-the-art bicycle repair shop behind the bar. Enjoy a handcrafted beer in a relaxed setting while you get your bike tuned up. Find us online at endobrewing.com. Cheers! 

Karl Strauss and Pure Project Release a Hazy, Murky Collaboration IPA

SAN DIEGO, CA— Karl Strauss Brewing Company is kicking off 2020 with the latest in their collaborations series - brewing an innovative IPA with their friends at Pure Project Brewing in San Diego.  Murky Poetry Hazy IPA will debut statewide on draft and in 16oz 4pk cans on January 16th. 

“Pure Project has quickly grown to be one of the most exciting breweries in San Diego and we have so much respect for what they’ve built. As brewers, we never stop learning, and crafting the recipe with their team was an opportunity for us to both share our knowledge and benefit from seeing how they approach the brewing process” says Karl Strauss Brewmaster Paul Segura.

Pure Project was equally as excited to brew a beer with Karl Strauss stating “We were honored to be involved with a pioneering brewing company that has done so much for the craft scene in San Diego and throughout the state of California.  We have much respect for all their beers and it was thrilling to brew at their facility in a true team, collaborative effort” said Mat Robar, Founder.

Inspired to push the envelope with their experimentation, both Karl Strauss and Pure Project brewed slightly different batches of this new collaboration on their respective brewhouses. Karl Strauss’ version is named as a nod to Pure Project’s “murky”— ie hazy— IPAs. Murky Poetry is a refreshing and tropical-forward hazy IPA brewed with Amarillo, Citra, Sabro, and Motueka hops that impart notes of guava, orange, and fruit punch; oats and wheat give this beer a soft, pillowy mouthfeel while locally sourced hand-crafted malts from Admiral Malting in Alameda, California lend unique flavor and local terroir. 

Pure Project’s release is named Liquid Allusion Murky IPA (a nod to Karl’s larger release), and debuted in early January 2020. Liquid Allusion features a different hop blend and Pure Project’s house Murky yeast strain that promotes aromas and flavors of fresh orange juice and lychee fruit. 

“Liquid Allusion is the debut of our hand selected Mosaic hops from Loftus Ranches in Washington,” says Pure Project Head Brewer Winslow Sawyer. “Mosaic is one of our favorite hops, and I can think of no better time to use it than working with the King of Mosaic – Karl Strauss Brewing Company.” 

Murky Poetry Hazy IPA is the first of four new collaboration beers coming from Karl Strauss in 2020. More information about this year’s collaboration  line-up will be announced in future months.

For more information about this indie beer collaboration, contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com.

ABOUT KARL STRAUSS BREWING COMPANY

Karl Strauss Brewing Company has been proudly independent since 1989, pioneering the craft beer scene with innovative and award-winning beer releases like Aurora Hoppyalis IPA, Queen of Tarts Dark Sour, Boat Shoes Hazy IPA and Red Trolley Ale. For more information, visit www.karlstrauss.com or call the brewery at (858) 273-2739. Share it. Cheers.

Bierstadt Lagerhaus Remains Open, Releases Tmavé 13°, Expands Beer Hall, and Launches New Schnitzel Menu

Rackhouse Pub

DENVER, CO— Bierstadt Lagerhaus, nationally renowned, and The Colorado Sun’s 2019 Colorado brewery of the year, remains open. Not only do we remain open, on January 24 th , we have the audacity to release Tmavé 13°, a Czech Dark Lager, inspired by a May trip to Prague. Bierstadt now fields 5 calls a day asking if we are still open since the cidery in our building relocated their production space. Bierstadt wants to invite everyone back as we continue to Lagerhard for a Czech celebration of Lager, Goulash and Becherovka as our collaborators from Bagby Beer in Oceanside, CA fly in for the celebration.

The games, beer hall and liters of lager remain open and flowing, along with all the shenanigans everyone has come to expect. In fact, the beer hall is expanding-slightly-and will have some European-style food options as well as additional seating within the month.

As is known by nearly everyone and barely deserves repeating here, Lager beer is the finest accompaniment to food ever devised by our species. To this end, Bierstadt is changing its focus from really good food, to a transcendent marriage of schnitzel and Lager. Much drunken research was recently conducted in Germany to make sure our schnitzel was on point. Owners Chris Rippe, Ashleigh Carter and Bill Eye were forced to drink multiple liters of lager-often late into the night-to acquire schnitzel making secrets. Livers were bruised, but our schnitzel at Bierstadt is now as it was there. Some sacrifices are worth it.

Denver winery Deep Roots will open in the relocated cidery space. Bierstadt will remain fully operational, come get some.

ABOUT BIERSTADT LAGERHAUS

At Bierstadt we craft lagers the traditional way, and nothing more. Discover what we believe at bierstadtlager.com.

Keller Wiliams' Grateful Grass to Play Bonfire Block Party

Photo courtesy Keller Williams

EAGLE, CO– Bonfire Brewing and Optimum Events announced the first of 13 musical acts to play the eighth annual Bonfire Block Party slated for Friday, June 12 through Sunday, June 14, 2020. Keller Williams' Grateful Grass features Williams and an all-star lineup on one of the two main stages in Downtown Eagle, CO. Early Bird GA and VIP Experience tickets are on sale now.

Bluegrass and folk sensation Keller Williams is the ultimate musical collaborator with regular appearances as Keller & The Keels, with More Than a Little, the Hillbenders, The Travelin’ McCourys and more. Grateful Grass features “Loose interpretations of Grateful Dead songs done in a bluegrass style,” says Williams. “If you like singing along to Dead songs [and] dancing double time to the music, this is definitely your jam.”

Grateful Grass’ rotating lineup has included The Keels, Keith Moseley (String Cheese Incident), Jeff Austin (Yonder Mountain String Band), Reed Mathis (Tea Leaf Green), Vince Herman (Leftover Salmon), The Infamous Stringdusters and more. The Block Party Grateful Grass collaborators will be announced closer to the date.  

Tickets for the 2020 Bonfire Block Party are on sale now and include limited Early Bird Two-Day General Admission tickets, Two-Day VIP Experience tickets and Sunday Bloodies & Bluegrass brunch tickets. VIP tickets are expected to sell out and the Bloodies & Bluegrass event includes bottomless Bloody Marys and mimosas. The Block Party features 13 bands performing on three stages, bar service including Bonfire Brewing craft beer and local food vendors – all in the streets of Downtown Eagle. Kids 12 and under are free for General Admission and two and under are free for the VIP Experience and Sunday’s brunch.

A portion of all Bonfire Block Party proceeds benefit nonprofit partner, The Cycle Effect. For more information and to purchase tickets online, visit www.bonfireblockparty.com.

If You Go:

What: 2020 Bonfire Block Party

Where:  Downtown Eagle, CO

When: Friday, June 12 - Sunday, June 14, 2020

Cost: $30 - $120 (Early Bird Ticketing)

More: www.bonfireblockparty.com

Photo : Keller Williams' Grateful Grass will be one of the main stage headliners at the 2020 Bonfire Block Party in Downtown Eagle. The eight-annual street festival takes place June 12-14, 2020 and specially priced Early Bird tickets are on sale now at www.bonfireblockparty.com.

Dates Announced and Tickets on Sale Now for 2020 Bonfire Block Party in Eagle, Colorado

North Mississippi Allstars, photo by Robbie Prechtl

EAGLE, CO – Bonfire Brewing and Optimum Events once again team up for the eighth installment of the Bonfire Block Party, an annual street party slated for June 12 - 14, 2020 in Downtown Eagle. Specially priced Early Bird GA tickets, VIP Experience tickets and Sunday Bloodies & Bluegrass brunch tickets are on sale now. Holiday pre-sale tickets are sold out.  The Bonfire Block Party is the three-time winner of the Best of Vail’s Best Summer Festival and showcases nationally renowned bands, along with food vendors and Bonfire Brewing craft beer releases. As in years past, a portion of all proceeds benefit Eagle County nonprofit partner, The Cycle Effect. The limited Early Bird ticket sale offers the guaranteed lowest ticket prices for the 2020 event.

The Block Party features three outdoor stages and an expansive VIP experience for concertgoers. The Block Party VIP experience includes a covered tent with seating, dedicated viewing areas, complimentary catered dinner and a 2020 branded glow-in-the-dark Silipint tumbler or wine glass, which includes one free drink and a $1.00 discount off drinks all weekend long. New for 2020, the Block Party will sell wine and spirits at all general admission bars, in addition to hand-crafted Bonfire Brewery beers. While supplies last, the Block Party Early Bird pricing for two-day VIP tickets is $120 per person and two-day general admission tickets are $30. The Silipint add-ons are $19 and include a glow-in-the-dark Silipint tumbler or wine glass, one free drink and a $1.00 discount off all drinks for the weekend. Children 12 and under are free in general admission areas, and children two and under are free in VIP.

The Sunday Bloodies & Bluegrass closing concert and brunch ticket price is $40 and includes a complimentary brunch by Big Delicious Catering. New for 2020, the Bloodies & Bluegrass ticket also includes bottomless Bloody Marys, Mimosa and Bonfire Brewing craft beers.

Nationally recognized music acts will appear on three outdoor stages over two days during the Block Party, the Boneyard and Haymaker main stages on Broadway, and the Bonfire Stage on Second Street adjacent to Bonfire Brewing. The full music lineup will be released in early 2020. Past musical acts include Twiddle, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Railroad Earth, Galactic, The Record Company, Sam Bush, North Mississippi Allstars and more. 

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

If You Go:

What: 2020 Bonfire Block Party

Where:  Broadway and Second Streets, Eagle

When: Friday, June 12 - Sunday, June 14, 2020

Cost: $30/$120 (special Early Bird pricing) $40 (Bluegrass & Bloodies closing concert and brunch)

More: www.bonfireblockparty.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.

Bonfire Brewing Releases Good Boy Peanut Butter Porter

EAGLE, CO— Bonfire Brewing canned a new beer from the Community Creator Series last week. Good Boy Peanut Butter Porter is available locally in canned 12 oz. 6-packs this week, followed by state-wide shipments in early January. Following strong positive feedback from its tap room customers, Bonfire plans to produce and package the beer through March 2020.

The base recipe of this new beer was inspired by their popular Tent Pole Vanilla Porter— Bonfire’s brewers upped the chocolate malt and added peanut butter flavoring resulting in a rich and tasty cold-weather treat. The name, “Good Boy,” is a nod to Bonfire’s association with all things dogs, and the common use of peanut butter as a puppy training reward.

Earlier this year, Bonfire launched the Community Creator Series of limited release beers with Après-Cot, followed by Pink-I Raspberry IPA, and GrapepHruit Kettle Sour IPA.

A nitro version of Good Boy will be available at Bonfire in weeks to come. 

For more information about Good Boy Peanut Butter Porter cans or the Community Creator series, contact Emily Hutto at hutto@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.

Ska Brewing Debuts Varietal 12-pack Featuring 3 New Flavors of The Hard Seltzer

DURANGO, CO— Ska Brewing is heading into the new year with a fresh, low-calorie option in cans. The brewery will tap its three new hard seltzer flavors at its World Headquarters today, and debut a 12-pack of these cans across the brewery distribution footprint in coming weeks. 

Seltzer, according to the feds, is still considered to be a “beer”. This “non-beer beer,” as Ska Co-Founder and CEO Dave Thibodeau calls it, is a response to much of the staff requesting the clear and refreshing beverage. “Beer is the driving force of Ska and our true first love,” Thibodeau says. “But the Crossfit kids on our sales team swear we’d be remiss not to offer their keto companions a low-carb alternative to one of the world’s oldest and most delicious beverages.”

The Hard Seltzer from Ska Brewing will be available in Hibiscus Lime, Black Raspberry, and Blood Orange flavors. These gluten-free and low-sugar hard seltzers will be packaged in 12-ounce cans, and only available as a 12-pack for the time being. They contain only 100 calories and 2 grams of sugar per can, and they weigh in at 5% ABV.

“I won’t lie that we thought seltzer brewing would be easy,” Thibodeau admits. “Turns out it was much more difficult that we imagined. It took a lot of Mod System batches to nail down our process in the brewhouse to achieve these flavors. I think I’ve tasted more seltzer in the last year than I think I might consume throughout the rest of my life.” 

These Mod System batches have been extremely popular in the tasting room, alongside Ska’s new non-alcoholic Skagua cans. “We’re stoked to offer our customers so many new options,” Thibodeau adds. “Now you can grab a 6-pack of Skagua to bring home for your kids, and once they go to bed, grab another and mix up a refreshing nightcap with your favorite locally produced spirit!”

For more information about Ska’s new seltzer offerings, contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com. 

ABOUT SKA BREWING

Based in Durango, Colorado, Ska Brewing was founded in 1995 and produces more than a dozen award- winning beers fueled with Ska music, and lots of it. Pioneers in the canned craft beer movement, Ska Brewing is known for an array of styles in 12 oz cans that include Mexican Logger, Modus Hoperandi, and Rue B. Soho. For information (a lot of it), more music, and a good time, visit www.skabrewing.com.

Thirsty Monk Presents the 7th Annual New Year’s Eve Keg Drop Celebration and Flask Luau at Biltmore Park

What: To ring in the New Year, New York City drops a ball, Atlanta drops a peach and Miami drops an orange. Asheville drops a keg! Thirsty Monk wants you to join in on the fun. Ring in 2020 with Thirsty Monk’s 7th Annual New Year’s Eve Keg Drop Celebration at Biltmore Park. This two-story golden keg will be lit up and glowing on New Year’s Eve and will descend at midnight. 

The Beer: Beers will be flowing as Thirsty Monk taps their fan-favorite Must Love Coconut IPA at midnight. This special beer makes an annual appearance on tap, especially for New Year festivities.

Escape from the typical IPA and be whisked away from winter to a tropical paradise with Must Love Coconut IPA. Brewed with toasted coconut and a blast of Citra and Centennial hops, this Belgian-style IPA is a totally tropical experience. 

Flask Luau: Next door, Monk’s Flask will join in on the festivities with a Luau New Year complete with a festive tiki cocktail menu and tropical beach vibes.

The Keg Drop Celebration is free to attend and ample parking is available for guests. Enjoy the viewing of the keg drop from either Thirsty Monk or Monk’s Flask patios!

When: Tuesday, December 31st at 5 p.m. to Wednesday, January 1st at 1 a.m.

Where: Thirsty Monk South at Biltmore Park Town Square (2 Town Square Blvd #160 & #170, Asheville, NC 28803)

ABOUT THIRSTY MONK

Founded in 2008, Thirsty Monk Brewery currently operates a family of brewpubs (Thirsty Monk Downtown, Thirsty Monk Biltmore Park, 2x4 Brew Pub) and cocktail bars (Monk’s Flask, Top of the Monk) in Asheville, North Carolina , Denver, Colorado and Portland, Oregon. Thirsty Monk’s award-winning, Belgian-rooted Modern Ales are showcased in the company’s expertly crafted beer-paired food menus and synergistic cocktail ingredients. Find the company online at monkpub.com.

Elevation Beer Company Oil Man Imperial Stout now available in 12-ounce cans

PONCHA SPRINGS, CO— For the first time in Elevation Beer Company history, the famed Oil Man Imperial Stout is available in cans. Twelve-ounce four-packs of this Bourbon barrel-aged beauty and its Coconut sister are available through the season while supplies last.

Oil Man is a great beer to get introspective on life with, named after Elevation Founder Carlin Walsh’s grandfather who was a successful oil entrepreneur. It pours a deep black with an unbelievable coffee-colored head. Aromatics of sweet malt and bourbon envelop the nose. The malt profile continues through the palate from beginning to end with subtle hints of chocolate, coffee, and of course, bourbon. 

Coconut Oil Man was aged with ten pounds per barrel of organic coconut, more than half of which was hand toasted to add rich, toasty notes to the beer.

Oil Man and Coconut Oil Man cans will be available in 4-packs of 12-ounce cans across Colorado this season. 

For more information about Elevation Beer Co. and the new Oil Man cans, contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com.

ABOUT ELEVATION BEER COMPANY

Proudly operating in the remote mountain town of Poncha Springs, Elevation Beer Co. is more than just a beer company— we are a family, a community, and a collective of ordinary people doing extraordinary things. Dedicated to creating sustainable, meaningful careers in rural Colorado, we take the preservation of our home as seriously as we do the quality of our beer. Taste our flagship 8 Second Kolsch and a lineup of other usual suspects and seasonals at our tasting room, and in canned 6-packs and specialty bombers across Colorado and Wyoming. Go higher at elevationbeerco.com.

Westbound & Down Brewing Company Introduces New Cans

IDAHO SPRINGS, CO— Fresh off its Midsize Brewpub of the Year recognition at the 2019 Great American Beer Festival®, Westbound & Down Brewing Company announced this week the release of new cans and distribution beyond Idaho Springs

Westbound & Down will begin canning Colorado Pale Ale, a beer brewed to be enjoyed on outdoor mountain excursions; Westbound Double IPA, one of the company’s recent GABF medal winners; and Chicago Peaks Kolsch, originally a collaboration with Bierstadt Lagerhouse; named for the surrounding Chicago Peaks that include Mount Evans and Mount Bierstadt. Fans can celebrate these new cans at Westbound & Down on Friday, December 20 at the official can release at the Idaho Springs brewpub. Cans will also be available on December 21 at The Cultural Center, Westbound & Down’s shared barrel cellar in Northwest Denver.

These popular brands from the brewery will be available in 4-packs of 16 oz cans to-go from Westbound & Down’s Idaho Springs brewpub location, and at Westbound General that will open in 2020. There will be an announcement in coming weeks about this new provisions store.

“We have always wanted to can our products,” says Jake Gardner, Westbound & Down’s Head Beer Drinker. “The marketplace might be crowded, but there is always more room for excellent beer. We want to drink our beers on the go, and there seems to be a market for crushable beers in a can.”

Culture Beverage, an affiliate wholesaler partner of Shelton Brothers Importers, will pick up Westbound & Down’s kegged and bottled brands in 2020. Westbound & Down’s canned brands will be available in very limited quantities outside of its Idaho Springs brewpub and Westbound General locations.

For more information about Westbound & Down’s new cans, contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com.

ABOUT WESTBOUND & DOWN BREWING COMPANY

Westbound & Down Brewing Company runs a small brewpub in Idaho Springs, CO that prides itself in brewing well-executed beers in a wide array of beer styles to pair with great food. Brewed with a bit of Rocky Mountain air and served with a side of fresh powder, Westbound and Down’s beers have been awarded multiple accolades since their opening in 2015. In 2018, Westbound & Down and Amalgam launched The Cultural Center, a shared barrel cellar and tasting room celebrating the art and exploration of mixed culture fermentation with an emphasis on barrel-aged saisons and sour ales. In 2020, Westbound & Down will add the Westbound General store to its family of craft beer destination places in Colorado. Find the company online at westboundanddown.com.