Three-story “beer” will show off new look on May 5; Classic packaging will appear on shelves in early May

(Rochester, NY) – Genesee Beer is taking cues from its past to build on its recent success. The Beer will soon return to the striking packaging it donned nearly 40 years ago. The white cans with red and black logos that first made Genesee a household name will begin appearing on shelves in early May. Rochester will get a first look at the packaging when a new tank wrap is unveiled at the Brewery on May 5, 2011.


“We’re celebrating our historic past and toasting to our continued success,” said Janine Schoos, brand manager for the Genesee family of beers. “Genesee Beer had double-digit sales increases in 2010, and Genesee is again a regional sales leader in the popular-price beer segment. Using the vintage packaging truly celebrates what the Genesee family is about—history, heritage and producing great, authentic beers.”

As Genesee Beer experiences a revitalized popularity, the brewery is capitalizing on its heritage, which dates back to 1878. The red and white packaging first appeared on shelves in the early 1970s, at the peak of Genesee’s success when the brewery famously shipped three million barrels of beer. Most recently, the 24 oz. cans, rolled out in September of 2010, donned the historic look.

“The response to the vintage packaging on the 24 oz. cans has been overwhelmingly positive and it’s another success story for Genesee,” said Schoos. “We’re getting back to our roots and reintroducing this packaging across the entire Genesee Beer product line—including the largest and most recognizable can of them all, our 35,862,784 ounce tank on the brewery grounds.”

The new tank wrap will be installed and available for public viewing on May 5, 2011.

Genesee prides itself on being an authentic, quality beer, known for its great taste and affordable price. That message is again resonating with consumers—since 2009, the Genesee Brewery and Genesee Beer have been on a growth path. The brewery recently announced plans to hire an additional 100 employees, continuing the trend started by the reintroduction of a third production shift. Nielsen data also shows that nationwide sales of Genesee Beer are up 35-percent and Genesee is returning to popularity in its hometown of Rochester.

The beer is also experiencing success outside of Rochester, with sales increases across the Western and Southern United States.

“Genny has really gained momentum in areas like Washington, Ohio, and Florida,” said Schoos. “It’s proof that being an authentic beer, with great taste and a great price is what consumers are looking for.”

“This really is a celebration of the hard work that got us here, and it’s only fitting to do so by giving a nod to our successful past,” said Schoos.

About The Genesee Brewery:
The Genesee Brewery, based in Rochester, New York, is one of the largest and oldest continually operating breweries in the United States and is part of North American Breweries. In 2010, the Genesee Brewery earned AIB Certification, a nationally recognized industry designation for quality excellence in food, beverage, and brewing manufacturing practices and product safety. The brewery makes the historic Genesee line of beers, Seagram’s Escapes, the Original Honey Brown Lager as well as Dundee Ales and Lagers family of craft beers. The Genesee Brewery also manufactures beer and other alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages under contracts on behalf of other companies.

33rd Annual AHA Event Comes to San Diego June 16-18

Boulder, CO • May 5, 2011—The homebrewing hobby continues to grow substantially, and the National Homebrewers Conference is a clear indicator of the pastime's popularity. The sold-out conference is projected to hit an all-time high of 1,900 participants, which is nearly a 50 percent increase over last year's attendance.

The comprehensive conference agenda, plus the thriving San Diego craft brewing and homebrewing community, is certainly a draw for attendees traveling from all corners of North America to participate in the world's longest-running homebrewers conference. Attendees will take in educational seminars, participate in social events and, for some, receive prestigious awards in the National Homebrew Competition.

Hobbyists will immerse themselves in three days of concentrated education-30 different seminars all told-to expand their homebrewing knowledge. Expert speakers, including well-known authors and professional brewers, will cover the gamut of topics, ranging from ingredients to brewing techniques to advanced recipes. While attendees may have a difficult choice deciding which seminars to prioritize, all will be sure to hear the keynote address, given by Vinnie Cilurzo, founder and brewmaster of Russian River Brewing Co., on Friday, June 17.

Once the notebooks have been packed away and the slideshows have ended each evening, participants will celebrate at social events that are unique to the National Homebrewers Conference. Attendees will be treated to a host of special beers at Thursday's Pro-Brewers Night, an event that sees more than 40 breweries from California and beyond try to impress beer enthusiasts with their finest fermentables. Then, homebrew clubs take center stage for Friday's Club Night. Two parts homegrown beer festival, one part costume party, Club Night always delivers with wacky fun and artful homebrew.

Finally, the conference winds down on Saturday, June 18 with a banquet featuring "The Homebrew Chef," Sean Paxton. The 2011 National Homebrew Competition winners will be awarded at this closing event as well. With close to 7,000 entries in 28 different style categories, this year's competition has been the largest to date and is the largest beer competition in the world!

###

The American Homebrewers Association has worked on behalf of the homebrewing community since 1978 and boasts a membership of more than 25,000 homebrewers. The American Homebrewers Association (AHA) organizes events including the National Homebrewers Conference and National Homebrew Competition. The AHA also publishes Zymurgy magazine. The AHA is part of the Brewers Association, whose Brewers Publications division is the largest publisher of contemporary and relevant brewing literature for today's craft brewers and homebrewers.

Beer lovers are invited to learn more about the dynamic world of craft beer at CraftBeer.com. Follow the AHA on Twitter, and join us on Facebook.

Robert Johnson: The Centennial Collection Available Now from Legacy Recordings

NEW YORK, April 28, 2011 -  May 8, 2011 marks the 100th birthday of singer/songwriter/guitarist Robert Johnson -- the archetypal Mississippi Delta bluesman who purportedly sold his soul to the Devil at the crossroads of Highway 61 and Highway 49 in exchange for uncanny musical prowess.  In honor of the Robert Johnson centennial, Delaware's Dogfish Head Craft Brewery has created "Hellhound On My Ale," a super-hoppy brew inspired by the otherworldly soul and complexity of Johnson's music.

Produced in a small-quantity-limited run, "Hellhound On My Ale," is 100% dry-hopped with Centennial Hops with sublime citrus notes courtesy of dried organic lemon peel and flesh added pre-fermentation (a taste-bud tribute to Johnson's musical mentor, Blind Lemon Jefferson).  "Just as Johnson's unique style was a hybrid of Delta blues, country and even vaudeville," said Dogfish founder and president Sam Calagione, "Centennial Hops are a recently developed variety that is a hybrid of Brewer's Gold, Golding, and Fuggles hop varieties.  Centennial Hops grow in the Northwest United States and have wonderful floral and citrus notes."  Rounding off the centennial spirit of the ale, Hellhound is brewed at 10.0 abv.

Coming in early May, Dogfish Head's "Hellhound" will be available in Delaware, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, Oregon and Washington.

The newly crafted Robert Johnson ale was created, according to Calagione, as a way to "celebrate his artistry and his centennial simultaneously.  Johnson's playing was so complex and full that his one guitar sounded like two.  His voice and lyrics were as distinct as his guitar playing, and stood out as distinct beyond the other blues musicians of the day.  Beyond that you have the legend of Johnson selling his soul to the devil in return for mastery of the guitar.  We wanted to make an ale that paid tribute to all that."

"Robert Johnson is an American treasure," said Adam Block, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Legacy Recordings, "and his musical legacy and remarkable folklore are well worth celebrating.  In this spirit, Sam and Dogfish Head have brewed an appropriately wonderful and delicious tribute to Johnson and his music."

Dogfish Head and its "off-centered ales for off-centered people" were the subject of "A Better Brew," an article in The New Yorker (Nov. 24, 2008) examining the rise of extreme beer.  "Beer has lagged well behind wine and organic produce in the ongoing reinvention of American cuisine. Yet the change over the past twenty years has been startling," wrote Burkhard Bilger. "Dogfish is something of a mascot for this unruly movement. In the thirteen years since Calagione founded the brewery, it has gone from being the smallest in the country to the thirty-eighth largest. Calagione makes more beer with at least ten per cent alcohol than any other brewer, and his odd ingredients are often drawn from ancient or obscure beer traditions. It is to Budweiser what a bouillabaisse is to fish stock."

Now sixteen years old, Dogfish Head has grown to become the country's 24th biggest brewery.

Dogfish Head first partnered with Legacy Recordings in 2010 in the creation of a limited edition "Bitch's Brew" celebrating the 40th Anniversary of Miles Davis's fusion-jazz masterpiece.

Robert Johnson's alleged contract with Satan brought forth an incandescent guitar technique and a run of 10-inch 78 rpm singles for the Vocalion, Oriole, Conqueror and Perfect labels recorded in San Antonio in 1936 and Dallas in 1937.  Those songs have become a cornerstone of  20th century music, and Columbia Records' identity, and will be celebrated on two  CENTENNIAL releases from Columbia/Legacy, a division of SONY MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT.

Over the years, Johnson's influence has resounded in the music of Muddy Waters ("32-20 Blues"), Elmore James ("I Believe I'll Dust My Broom"), Junior Parker ("Sweet Home Chicago"), John Hammond Jr. ("Milk Cow's Calf Blues"), the Rolling Stones ("Love In Vain," "Stop Breakin' Down Blues"), John Mayall ("Ramblin' On My Mind"), Cream ("From Four Until Late"), Eric Clapton ("Cross Road Blues"), Johnny Winter ("When You Got a Good Friend"), Paul Butterfield and Bonnie Raitt ("Walkin' Blues"), Fleetwood Mac and ZZ Top ("Hellhound On My Trail"), Led Zeppelin ("Traveling Riverside Blues"), Keb' Mo' ("Preachin' Blues"), Cassandra Wilson ("Come On In My Kitchen"), and countless others.  It is by far the most empowering body of work in American history to emerge from one solitary blues figure.

On the occasion of the 100th anniversary of Robert Johnson's birth, Columbia/Legacy pays homage to his spirit with ROBERT JOHNSON: THE COMPLETE ORIGINAL MASTERS - CENTENNIAL EDITION (catalog # 88697859071) a multi-faceted "box set" encompassing stand-alone vinyl, CD and DVD components.  Its components include:

1)  A hardbound vintage book, with sleeves housing the dozen 78rpm vinyl-disc replicas (now at 45 rpm) originally released by Johnson, including a lavish 10-inch-square booklet;

2)  ROBERT JOHNSON: THE CENTENNIAL COLLECTION (catalog #88697860661) a new double-CD which includes all 29 songs he recorded in 1936 and '37, for a combined total of 42 masters and alternate takes;

3) RARITIES FROM THE VAULTS, a double-CD comprising:

    * CD One: Blues From The Victor Vault, a dozen rarely-collected 78s (i.e. 24 A-sides and B-sides) from the Victor archive by Frank Stokes, Tommy Johnson, Sleepy John Estes, Furry Lewis, Memphis Minnie, Blind Willie McTell, and others, recorded between 1928 and 1932; and
    * CD Two: Also Playing..., 10 tracks featuring artists recorded during the same San Antonio and Dallas sessions as Robert Johnson, a musical hotpot ranging from folk and hillbilly, cowboy and Mexican to Texas Swing;


4) THE LIFE & MUSIC OF ROBERT JOHNSON: CAN'T YOU HEAR THE WIND HOWL?,  a DVD of the critically-acclaimed 1997 documentary film, directed by Peter Meyer, hosted by Danny Glover, and featuring Keb' Mo' as Robert Johnson.  The 76-minute film also includes interviews with Robert Cray, Johnny Shines, John Hammond, Honeyboy Edwards, Robert Lockwood Jr., Henry Townsend, Eric Clapton and Keith Richards. 

The four components will ship together and are available exclusively at www.thecompleterobertjohnson.com.  This package will not be available in stores.

THE CENTENNIAL COLLECTION double-disc set shares the same genealogy as 1990's Robert Johnson - The Complete Recordings, but that package has now been updated for a new generation.  The set includes a new essay by Ted Gioia alongside a new biography of Robert Johnson written by Stephen C. LaVere (completely different from his essay in the 1990 version).  Also included are new illustrations, photo images, and a family tree of music originating from Robert Johnson.  THE CENTENNIAL COLLECTION will ship as part of the ROBERT JOHNSON: THE COMPLETE MASTERS – CENTENNIAL EDITION package, but it will also be available as a stand-alone item at retail. 

The Robert Johnson Blues Foundation (located in Crystal Springs, Mississippi) announced a series of national and international centennial events for "Robert Johnson - The King of Delta Blues." Steven Johnson, the Vice President of the Foundation and grandson to Robert Johnson, explains: " My grandfather is revered globally.  This centennial celebration involves combining a unique blend of theatre, live musical performances, artistic exhibits and dialogue that highlight the complexity of his life while celebrating his genius. Our events will be following the Robert Johnson Blues Trail, which will allow us to travel to many of the cities where he shared his talents and where his music is most loved.  This is important because his voice, style and musical gifts were the foundation for American popular music." For more information about the centennial events visit www.RobertJohnsonBluesFoundation.org.

www.legacyrecordings.com

robertjohnsonhellhoundale.com

www.thecompleterobertjohnson.com

www.facebook.com/RobertJohnsonBlues

www.RobertJohnsonBluesFoundation.org

www.dogfish.com

Features Co-Branded Marketing, Lead Sponsorship of the Skyblast Fireworks and Music Series

PITTSBURGH, May 5, 2011 - Iron City Brewing Co. today announced an agreement with the Pittsburgh Pirates to serve as lead sponsor of the Skyblast fireworks and music series, which begins June 11 with Huey Lewis & the News, followed by concerts with .38 Special (July 9) and Train (August 6). The agreement also grants Iron City and the Pirates rights to use each other's name and logos in advertising and marketing materials to drive business for each organization.

Iron City products will be prominently advertised throughout PNC Park. The Pirates and Iron City will conduct joint pre- and post-game marketing initiatives inside and outside the park to engage consumers and drive support for both brands.

"Iron City and the Pirates are iconic Pittsburgh institutions that are united in their dedication to the city and its fans," said Ed Lozano, president and CEO, Iron City Brewing Co. "As we embark on a campaign to re-connect consumers with their hometown beer, we're proud of our new relationship with the Pirates and invite everyone to enjoy a cold Iron City or IC Light at PNC Park this summer."

"The Pirates are very pleased to partner with Iron City and look forward to working with their new leadership on re-establishing the great partnership that existed for decades between our two organizations," said Frank Coonelly, president, Pittsburgh Pirates.

About Iron City Brewing Company

ICB's brands are iconic in the Western Pennsylvania region, and its core products, Iron City Beer, IC Light, and Augustiner Amber Lager, enjoy a loyal following around the world, wherever "Pittsburgh Nation" beer drinkers congregate. During the brewery's 150-year history it has introduced many innovations, including the twist-off cap and the snap top can, and in 1976, Iron City Brewing was the first brewery in the United States to produce a light beer.

For more information about Iron City Brewing, please visit www.ironcitybrewingcompany.com.

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif., May 3, 2011 - Taste of Brews™, an upscale tasting experience, is heading to Lighthouse Park in Long Beach on Saturday, August 20, 2011. An official event of the Long Beach SeaFest™, Southern California's premier beer-tasting festival features dozens of seasonal, craft and micro-brews paired alongside "traditional" libations from top breweries. Several affordable sponsorship and exhibitor options are available. More information, including additional dates/locations and customized tastings, is available at www.tasteofbrews.com.

A refreshing new approach to beer tasting, Taste of Brews pays homage to the passion and excitement that today's full-flavored craft beers are generating among consumers while providing an exciting platform to introduce new styles. General admission attendees will sample among dozens of brands and savor local cuisine. Premium VIP packages take the tasting experience to a heightened level with demonstrations from legendary brewmasters, private reserves, a lounge area and other upscale amenities. 

Taste of Brews infuses each of its events with seasonally-themed atmosphere and complementary entertainment to showcase the latest craft beer offerings. Lighthouse Park's unique venue near Aquarium of the Pacific and iconic Queen Mary features cool ocean breezes and classic surf music during the dog days of summer. A number of popular brewpubs and restaurants are nearby including Rock Bottom Brewery, Yard House and Tequila Jacks. Lighthouse Park is freeway close to Northwest Orange County and Southwest LA County.

The Long Beach SeaFest presented by The Port of Long Beach is a three-month celebration of the Southern California experience highlighted in a series of beach, ocean and summer-fun events. First staged 50 years ago with a mere handful of events, Sea Festival showcases Long Beach, the Aquatic Capital of America, as a spectacular place to live in or visit and offers Southern California families – and countless thousands of visitors – an opportunity to turn a day at the beach into much more than just a dip in the ocean! 

Taste of Brews is professionally produced by the proprietors of the Surf City USA Marathon and Boardfest. A comprehensive outreach campaign will be implemented to drive awareness for the festival and participating brews including a proven database of active So Cal residents, social networking, public relations and traditional advertising. For additional information, please call or email brewmaster@tasteofbrews.com.  

[ May 7, 2011; ] Check it out. Northern Brewer is brewing Town Hall's Hope & King Scotch Ale as a Big Brew for National Homebrew Day. As a friendly reminder, Northern Brewer Saint Paul will be joining the American Homebrewer's Association in celebrating National Homebrew Day by taking part in this year's Big Brew.  Feel free to stop by Northern [...]

Before the clock strikes twelve here in the Mountain Time Zone on Session Friday just a few thoughts vaguely related to our assignment for Session #51, hosted by Jay Brooks and called “The Great Online Beer & Cheese-Off.” I apologize for not exactly staying on track. If you read Jay’s post or Bryan Koselar’s you’ll [...]

Tampa, FL – Batch #4 has a new label and that new label is the only thing that identifies it as being the new batch. 110K+OT Batch #4 is tentatively scheduled to go on sale ...

Short take: Can man survive on beer alone? STLtoday.com We came late to the story about J. Wilson of Corning, Iowa, and how he existed on nothing but beer and water during a 46-day Lenten fast. We were going to take a pass until we discovered that Mr. Wilson is a member of the brotherhood — a newspaperman. ... and more »

Prague's beer festival showcases nation's booming microbreweries Vancouver Sun Evan Rail is the author of The Good Beer Guide to Prague & the Czech Republic. He's an American who has lived in Prague for a decade. Photo was taken at the Pivovarsky Klub in Prague's Karlin district. ... Beer Here: Potosi Czech Style Pilsner from Potosi BrewingIsthmus Daily Page all 11 news articles »

Daily Mail

Caught on camera: 'Swarm mob' laugh and joke as they steal beer, soda and ... Daily Mail In a blatant, arrogant raid on the City Stop store in Las Vegas, a crowd of around 30 young people were caught on camera helping themselves to beer, soda, chips and even beef jerky. They then casually waltzed out of the door without paying all the ... and more »

Friday’s ads are for a Brazilian beer (where I’m heading next week) from Primo Schincariol. The brand of beer is Nobel and this series of ads is from 2008 and uses the slogan “Appetizers Are Just An Excuse.” Each ad shows a beer glass filled not with beer, but two appetizers that, from a distance, [...]

Saison du Permienne scored a mediocre 25.  I opened one of my last two bottles, grabbed a box a tissues, and went over the score sheets.

Aroma: JUDGE 1: Light grainy, pear low spicy hop aroma.  Alcohol and Musty. 6/12
              JUDGE 2: Malty with some sharp alcohol notes an perhaps what could be some harsh hop aromas.  Some lighter (fuser) alcohol notes are also present.  Slight Citrusy character but lacking much of the complexity characteristic of the style.  Some spiciness but seems to me mostly alcohol derived. 5/12
              ME:  (I love judge 2).  Can't disagree.  Probably too old.  I might have scored it a bit higher. . .

Appearance:  JUDGE 1: Golden with slight orange hue.  Slight haze, low head.  Faded quickly. 2/3
                       JUDGE 2: Slightly hazy, golden orange.  Low white head is fleeting.  Huge legs. 2/3
                       ME:  I decanted so mine was crystal clear.  No head, no retention.  Yup! huge legs. (The decanting thing has me confused.  I guess the steward might have roused the yeast in the bottle.  But the steward in the with category didn't, which gave Satan some seriously low scores for Wit Willy.  Wouldn't a beer geek know to rouse the yeast in a wit?)  I would have scored it lower for the lack of head.

Flavor: JUDGE 1: Fruity, spicy, very light malt.  Dominate tart. Medium hop bitterness.  Spicy hop flavor finishes dry and tart.  Balance to bitter. Spicy dry tart sensation. 11/20
             JUDGE 2: Citric Tartness that extends into the finish making the finish juicy and citrusy. (Should be integrated not first.)  Bitterness is moderate high and seems to be largely alcohol derived.  No discernible hop flavor.  Lacks the long, dry finish characteristic of the style--tartness perhaps makes it seem drier that it is. 8/20
            ME:  Medium hop bitterness vs. No discernible hop flavor.  No wonder I hate competitions!  Me?  I don't get no hops.  (Judge 1 is an apprentice and Judge 2 is a National).  Otherwise I agree with both of 'em.

Mouthfeel: JUDGE 1:  Medium body, medium low carbonation, slight warmth. Moderate Creaminess.  Slight astringent from hops and spices. 3/5
                    JUDGE 2: Medium bodied with moderate-high carbonation and a juicy, tart mouthfeel.  Eventually significant alcohol warming in the back of the throat and into the chest. 3/5
                    ME:  no disagreements, except for the hop thing. . .

Overall Impression: JUDGE 1: Dry tart and refreshing.  Dry finish.  Overall pleasing but some musty.  Check hop freshness or spices if present or yeast health. 5/10
                                  JUDGE 2:  Alcohol Character is too much for style.  Seems to be at or above the high end of the ABV, and alcohol character dominates aroma and is too strong in the finish, Saison yeast can do well at high temperatures, but not too high. Other  strains will not tolerate high temperatures well and produce fusel alcohols and off aromas. Finish is surprisingly "juicy" for such an alcoholic beer - perhaps use harder water. 5/10
                                  ME:   I agree it has too much alcohol.  I was chasing ABV.  The next incarnation will have a lot less alcohol.

I will brew this version again, and it will be called "I Blame You Grand Cru"™.

Jay declared it some time ago but I was only reminded this morning when the Beer Nut posted his submission for this month's version of The Session. Jay's instructions are too complex for me to repeat at this cusp of weekend so check out his link yourself.

I had originally meant to bitch and moan about nothing hitting the mark quite like a cheese tasting after a long week of work. TGIF ≠ TGIC says I. Math don't lie. But then I remembered my moment with a large piece of Madawaska, mowed the lawn and went to the store. See, Canada has good beer but Canada has a few great beers and Fin du Monde from Unibroue is one of them. Canada has a lot of good cheese but it's a place where you can find real Oka and good aged cheddar like Balderson 3 year old in the supermarket. Bonus? The beer and both cheeses are all made on the same St. Lawrence watershed as drains my backyard. How theme-tastic. Excellent riparian session action or what!!!

Confession. I can't do Jay's recommended 3 beer x 3 cheese. I'd need a long weekend for that much. I can only handle 2 x 1 tonight. But let's see what happens.

OK, the Fin du Monde is creamy bubble gum with a white pepper snap. A bit sweet. The Oka is a cheese that I like to eat with the orange rind on: slightly gritty and a little rubbery but herbal and nutty. It's not the greatest partner for te beer. The nuttiness that makes the cheese is either lost or ignored. Rich meets sweet is never a good match. And, for a cheese that smelly it's subdued by the beer. Both good, bad at friendship. The cheddar does better. The tang in the cheese cits the bubblegum and speaks to the white pepper. You might be able to do something with salmon with these flavours. Something with cod.

Maybe that's the thing. Its not whether they are good or even if they go. It's if they make you think of another thing that could join in.

Founders Brewing unveils the first beer in their new Backstage Series, Blushing Monk. You may have seen that we plan to release a 750 mL Backstage Series. This week, we announced that Blushing Monk will be ...

Odell Brewing releases new brew during American Craft Beer Week Fort Collins, CO. – On May 21, 2011, Odell Brewing will release Hiveranno, the latest in its Single Serve series of offerings. A New American Wild ...

WOWK

Morgantown City Officials Weigh in on Possible Stadium Beer Sales WDTV A few weeks ago, WVU Athletic Director Oliver Luck proposed the idea of selling beer at football games to the university's Board of Governors. Morgantown city administrators are now offering their suggestions about the idea. City manager Terrence Moore ... Morgantown Officials Offer Opinions on WVU Beer SalesWBOY-TV all 5 news articles »

Pa. lawmaker wants wine and spirits at beer distributors abc27 A Pennsylvania lawmaker said he plans to introduce legislation that would expand wine and spirit sales to the state's 1200 beer distributors. Rep. John Payne, R-Dauphin, said his bill would not eliminate state liquor ... Lawmaker Suggests Selling Wine, Spirits At Beer DistributorsWJAC Johnstown Some Lawmakers Want One-Stop Alcohol ShopFOX43.com all 3 news articles »

A local businessman is offering people a unique business opportunity, invest in his company and what you may get in return is not money.

APEX Bar turns one and celebrates with some mind-blowing beers stowed away for the day. Also, Brewvana Portland Brewery Tours hits up the party as well as Cascade's Saison Fest.

New York Daily News

With Budget Unveiling, Bloomberg Draws the Battle Lines WNYC "We are forced to do the best we can with what we've got. The state has shifted the burden from them to us." Following the unveiling of Mayor Michael Bloomberg's final budget, the battle lines are now drawn between the mayor and City ... Bloomberg to cut more than 6000 NYC teaching positionsCNN International Bloomberg's $65.7 Billion New York City Budget Proposes 6000 Teacher CutsBloomberg NYC Mayor's Budget Would Cut 1 Out Of 12 TeachersNPR Brooklyn Daily Eagle -Patch.com -The Associated Press all 331 news articles »

(LANSING, Mich) – Twenty Michigan Brewers Guild member breweries collectively snagged 51 medals at the 2011 World Expo of Beer Competition, April 30 in Frankenmuth. Overall, there were 554 entries from around the world in 29 categories. Many of the beers entered in the competition will be available for sampling at the World Expo of Beer, May 20-21, at Heritage Park in Frankenmuth.
 
2011 MBG winners include:
 
Category 3 European Amber Lager 9 Entries
Silver               Fest Beer                                Kuhnhenn Brewery                 Warren, MI
Bronze             District 16 Amber                    Wolverine State                      Ann Arbor, MI
 
Category 4 Dark Lager 10 Entries
Bronze             Munich Style Dunkel              Frankenmuth Brewing            Frankenmuth, MI
 
Category 5 Bock 19 Entries
Bronze             Drag Me to Helles                   Wolverine State                      Ann Arbor, MI
 
Category 6 Light Hybrid 33 Entries
Silver               Cream Ale                               Bastone                                   Royal Oak, MI
Bronze             Dirty Blonde                            Atwater                                    Detroit, MI
  
Category 7 Amber Hybrid 6 Entries
Gold                Amber Tease                          Schmohz                                 Grand Rapids, MI
 
Category 8 English Pale Ale 11 Entries
Gold                Midland Pale Ale                     Midland Brewing                     Midland, MI
Silver               Sir Williams ESB                     Dragonmead                           Warren, MI
 
Category 9 Scottish/Irish Ale 22 Entries
Gold                A Few Shillings Too Many      Kuhnhenn                                Warren, MI
Silver               Brik                                          MillKing It                                Royal Oak, MI
Bronze             Grateful Red                           Black Forest                            Frankenmuth, MI
 
Category 10 American Ale 22 Entries
Gold                Best Brown                             Bell’s Brewery                         Galesburg, MI
Bronze             Hobos Breath                          Mt. Pleasant Brewing              Mt. Pleasant, MI
 
Category 11 English Brown Ale 9 Entries
Silver               English Brown                         Redwood Lodge                      Flint, MI
Bronze             Jimmy Brown                         Great Baraboo                        Clinton Twp, MI
 
Category 12 Porter 13 Entries
Silver               London Porter                         Arcadia Ales                            Battle Creek, MI
Bronze             Pirates Porter                          Black Forest                            Frankenmuth, MI
 
Category 13 Stout 34 Entries
Gold                Kalamazoo Stout                    Bell’s Brewing                         Galesburg, MI
Silver               Oatmeal Stout                         Redwood Lodge                      Flint, MI
Bronze             Double Cream Stout               Bell’s Brewing                         Galesburg, MI
 
Category 14 IPA 45 Entries
Gold                Buzz Saw IPA                         Arbor Brewing                         Ann Arbor, MI
Silver               Two Hearted Ale                     Bell’s Brewing                         Galesburg, MI
Bronze             Arcadia IPA                             Arcadia Ales                            Battle Creek, MI
 
Category 15 German Wheat/Rye 21
Bronze             Dunkel Weizenbock                Bastone                                   Royal Oak, MI
 
Category 16 Belgian/French Ale 33 Entries
Silver               Golden Cap                             New Holland Brewing             Holland, MI
Bronze             Witface                                    Bastone                                   Royal Oak, MI
 
Category 17 Sour Ale 10 Entries
Gold                Red Rock                                Big Rock Chop House            Birmingham, MI
 
Category 18 Belgian Strong Ale 21 Entries
Gold                Thors Hammer                       Bastone                                   Royal Oak, MI
Silver               Dubbel Vision                          Bastone                                   Royal Oak, MI
Bronze             Final Absolution                       Dragonmead                           Warren, MI
 
Category 19 Strong Ale 16 Entries
Gold                Cereal Killer (2009)                 Arcadia Ales                            Battle Creek, MI
Silver               Old Ale                                    Mt. Pleasant Brewing              Mt. Pleasant, MI
Bronze             Barleywine                              Mt. Pleasant Brewing              Mt. Pleasant, MI
 
Category 20 Fruit Beer 21 Entries
Bronze             Tart Cherry Porter                  Liberty Street                          Plymouth, MI
 
Category 21 Spice/Herb/Vegetable 24 Entries
Silver               Sacred Gruit                           Mt. Pleasant Brewing              Mt. Pleasant
Bronze             Clementine Lemon Thyme     Liberty Street                          Plymouth, MI
 
Category 22 Smoke/Wood Aged 15 Entries
Gold                London Porter                         Arcadia Ales                            Battle Creek, MI
Silver               Bourbon 4th Dementia            Kuhnhenn                                Warren, MI
Bronze             Bourbon Belgian Blond           Walldorff                                 Hastings, MI
 
Category 23 Specialty 24 Entries
Gold                Wanderer                                North Peak Brewing               Traverse City, MI
Silver               Cobains                                   Walldorff                                 Hastings, MI
Bronze             Cocoa Loco                            Arcadia Ales                            Battle Creek, MI
 
Category 24 Traditional Mead 9 Entries
Silver               Wildflower Sack                      Kuhnhenn                                Warren, MI
Bronze             Orange Blossom                     Kuhnhenn                                Warren, MI
 
Category 25 Melomel 13 Entries
Gold                Michigan Tart Cherry              Kuhnhenn                                Warren, MI
Silver               Lingonberry                             Kuhnhenn                                Warren, MI
Bronze             Elderberry                               Kuhnhenn                                Warren, MI
 
Category 26 Other Mead 24 Entries
Gold                Green Apple Riesling              Kuhnhenn                                Warren, MI
 
 
The World Expo of Beer festival runs from 5-10pm on Friday, May 20 and 3-10pm on Saturday, May 21. For more information, visit www.WorldExpoOfBeer.com.
 
Michigan’s thriving brewing industry contributes over $24 million in wages with a total economic contribution of more than $133 million. In terms of overall number breweries, microbreweries and brewpubs, Michigan ranks #5 in the nation – thus supporting its claim as “The Great Beer State.”
 
The Michigan Brewers Guild exists to unify the Michigan brewing community; to increase sales of Michigan-brewed beer through promotions, marketing, public awareness and consumer education; and to monitor and assure a healthy beer industry within the state. For more information, including a list of Michigan microbreweries, log on to www.michiganbrewersguild.org.

(FENNVILLE, Mich) – Michigan craft brewing pioneer Larry Bell presents outstanding craft beer from Bell’s Brewery with an “anything goes” eccentric menu to honor Bell’s eccentric café on Wednesday, May 11 at 7pm. Salt of the Earth Executive Chef Matt Pietsch and guest Chef Joel Wabeke from six.one.six at the JW Marriott, Grand Rapids will be focusing on local spring flavors as they pair dishes with Bell’s outstanding beers.
 
This is the final in a five-month Michigan Wine & Beer Dinner series held at Salt of the Earth. The Cost is $50 per person, (plus tax & gratuity). The evening starts at 7pm and is limited to 60 people. Reservations are required by calling 269-561-SALT (7258).
 
The Rustic Eccentric v2 menu (subject to change, based on seasonal availability of products) is as follows:
 
And in the beginning…
Amber Ale
 
We love fishes ‘cause they’re so delicious
Scallops- Citrus - avocado
Oarsman Ale
 
Take me out to the…
SOTE Vienna Frank - House bun - Smoked Mustard
Smoked Vienna Lager
 
Would you like an Orange Slice with that???
Oven roasted Whole Snapper - Roasted Fennel – Citrus
Oberon Ale
 
Chicken or Beef?
Fried Chicken with Beef Summer Sausage
Wedding Ale
 
Double Trouble
Chocolate - Honey - Coffee
Special Double Cream Stout
 
Salt of the Earth is a rustic American eatery and bakery, tucked away in a historic building in quaint downtown Fennville – in the heart of the Southwest Michigan’s thriving agricultural region. Under the direction of Chef Matthew Pietsch (protégé of ‘Iron Chef’ Michael Symon), this full service restaurant offers a seasonal menu of made-from-scratch entrees, shared plates, wood-fired oven pizzas, pastas, sandwiches and creative desserts – using fresh ingredients, often sourced locally. Artisan bread is baked in house, served with dinner and available to take home.  You’ll also find a bar stocked with an impressive selection of Michigan wines, craft beers, and spirit, alongside other domestic and international selections. Salt of the Earth is also a popular venue for local and regional musical artists, with live house concerts held every Sunday.  Winter Hours: Dinner served Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday 5-8:30pm, Friday & Saturday 5-10pm.  Fresh baked artisan bread is available in our bakery café from 9am to noon every Friday and Saturday.

Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii - 04 May 2011 - Maui Brewing Co. announces the official release of their first limited edition, packaged product, Flyin' HI.P.HAY. The release is scheduled for May 7th; this special beer is a tribute beer for the late Glen Hay Falconer who was a mentor and best friend to MBC head brewer, Scott Freitas. A mainland, West Coast release will follow in mid-May, appropriately starting in Oregon. Only 2000 cases will be produced and these will be distributed across eight states and three countries.

Flyin' HI.P.HAY is an India Pale Ale, brewed with Falconer's Flight hops, which are a hop blend of several varieties of commercial and experimental hops commonly found in IPA style beers. The base is 2-Row malted barley along with Crystal, Munich, and Dextrin malts. ABV is 6.8% and IBU is 68. This commemorative beer will be released in cans and partial proceeds will be donated to the Glen Hay Falconer Foundation, a non-profit organization whose mission is to contribute to the Northwest craft brewing community by providing opportunities for professional and aspiring brewers to further their knowledge and expertise. "This foundation provides brewing scholarships for brewers and home brewers and we are honored to be able to focus some attention to Glen's passion of 'living to the fullest; and brewing to the fullest'," comments Garrett Marrero.

Maui Brewing Co. is one of only two truly local Hawaiian breweries, brewing and packaging 100% of product in the state. Maui Brewing Co. and Hawaii Nui (on the Big Island) are very proud to be wholly produced "on-island". Maui Brewing Co. has been recognized as Hawaii's #1 craft beer since 2005 and the company has a strong commitment to the local economy, and deep concern for the environment. MBC craft beers are packaged with the most eco-friendly materials. Although cans and bottles are both recyclable, bottles still break and may pose a risk at beaches. The cans are manufactured on Oahu and designed by local Maui artists; they have the added bonus of protecting the beer in the best possible manner, protecting the product from both light and oxygen damage which can seriously compromise the taste. Plastic rings are dangerous to marine life and therefore, a unique, recyclable plastic carrying device is used to hold the products. The spent grain from beer production is donated to local ranchers for cattle feed and composting; and any cans damaged in production are donated to the Maui Humane Society. MBC purchased equipment from Maui Land & Pineapple, preserving a piece of Hawaii's canning history.

Founder Garrett Marrero and his wife, Melanie, operate a 7-barrel brewpub at the Kahana location as well as a 25-barrel production brewery and canning facility in Lahaina. Maui Brewing Co. is a truly local beer as 100% of their products are made in Hawaii.

Contact pr@mauibrewingco.com for interviews, additional information, or media questions.  To order for your retail/restaurant/resort establishment, contact sales@mauibrewingco.com.

(Alpine, CA) - Alpine Beer Company updated us with a ton of beer release info in their newsletter today.  Here's the skinny, straight from the newsletter.

"Since there were no fatalities reported after our last announcement it appears safe to divulge some more tasty morsels of news. The release of a couple of beers and the return of another popular beer appears on the horizon. What goes with a Gose beer? My aunt, Crazy Hazel, will be back in town soon.

 

Okay, I had a bubba job to help with in Baja Mexico last week and missed telling you about “O’Brien’s IPA” coming out last Friday. My apologies but now that you know, come on down and fill your growlers with this most delicious, Gold Medal winning, light IPA. Pints and pitchers are for sale at the pub, too.

Today, Friday May 6^th, is the official re-release date of “Ugly” our Black IPA. The mild roasty, cocoa flavor, silky, creamy texture and big hop smackdown combine to stage a flavor choirs on your palate. At 7.5% abv and the newest recognized beer style out, we think we know a thing or two about making really good “hoppy” beers, and this is no exception. Enjoy.

Bottles of "Emerson" go on sale at the brewery today. 22 ounce amber beer bottles of this New Zealand hopped Imperial Pilsner for $4.79 plus the usual. This is a beer you collectors and hoarders can lay down in your cellar without fear. But why?

Going the extra mile, for you, our loyal, loving customers, we’re adding an extra brew session this Sunday with the goal of making “Red Card” a special Red Ale made specifically for major soccer events. Gold Cup Soccer starts June 5^th, look for the release then. We’ll have it for growlers, pints and pitchers for as long as it lasts. And, soccer-centric pubs will have some for their televised dates.

The creativity doesn’t stop around here. We’ll be squeezing in a new beer as soon as we have some tank space. It’s a beer style called “Gose.” It has its origins in Germany and is a wheat beer originally wild fermented. We’ll control the microbes that ferment our batch, but the uniqueness of the beer is the use of coriander and salt. Yes, the beer has a decided salty flavor which when done right is very tasty.

And, how about another Pale Ale. We have some hops we want to combine in a lighter, 5-6% abv range, pale ale that we know will make a great flavor/aroma blend. Again, as tank space permits. For those that have been around for a while may remember “Crazy Hazel” amber ale flavored with the generous use of filberts. That will be our next specialty after the afore mentioned beers.

In an effort to minimize issues that arise, here are some things that may help with what we can and can’t do around here. Because of our diminutive size (we’re tiny) there is no office space here. I can’t sit at the computer at the brewery so I write newsletter and answer emails at home. When you ask what kegs are available, or what’s up for growler fills, I don’t know, I’m not there. I’d have to be there in order to answer accurately because our available beers change hourly. Calling the brewery is the only way to get those answers.619-445-2337 x1

We open the Pub at Noon on Sundays, the website needs updating."

 

(Boston, MA) - Harpoon will have the newest beer in their 100 Barrel Series coming out shortly.  "The 37th offering from the Harpoon 100 Barrel Series is Rich & Dan's Rye IPA, brewed by Harpoon Co-Founders Rich Doyle and Dan Kenary. They have brewed this beer together to celebrate 25 years of Harpoon and as a toast to you for making more than two decades of brewing craft beer in New England so great.

This beer is currently in the conditioning tanks and we will be bottling it in mid-May. So, be patient, and you will be rewarded in a few weeks with this unique beer!"

As usual, this will be available in 22oz bottles and limited draft.  For more information about the beer, check out Harpoon's page on it.

 

For Immediate Release Fort Collins, CO. – On May 21, 2011, Odell Brewing will release Hiveranno, the latest in its Single Serve series of offerings. A New American Wild ale, Hiveranno blends a traditional wild ale with bright American hop aromatics and soft oak tannins. The Hiveranno was a seasoned Mountain Man, one who had [...]

Ye, Buddy and I deserted our posts today. After sending off five stories/columns/undying pieces and photos of literature to three different beer magazines today and completing some work to get a nearly impossible image to find in the hands of … Continue reading →

Deschutes Base Camp Week in Houston May 16-21, 2011 Deschutes Brewery descends on Houston for its Base Camp Week of specialty beer tastings, beer and food pairings – a week-long celebration of all things Deschutes at ...

(Fort Collins, CO) – On May 21, 2011, Odell Brewing will release Hiveranno, the latest in its Single Serve series of offerings. A New American Wild ale, Hiveranno blends a traditional wild ale with bright American hop aromatics and soft oak tannins. The Hiveranno was a seasoned Mountain Man, one who had lived many years [...]

Odell Hiveranno debuts May 21st

[Disclaimer: Beernews.org is a leader in craft beer news and is the original source of this article. If you would like to check out more, please visit the original site. Thanks!]

(Warrenville, IL) – Two Brothers Brewing Company is pleased to announce the acquisition of America’s Historic Roundhouse in Aurora, Illinois. This historic 70,000 square foot facility houses a restaurant, brewery, music venue, banquet facilities and beautiful outdoor courtyard. The Roundhouse is an addition to the Two Brothers family, both the Brewery and Tap House restaurant [...]

Two Brothers Brewing Company acquires America’s Historic Roundhouse

[Disclaimer: Beernews.org is a leader in craft beer news and is the original source of this article. If you would like to check out more, please visit the original site. Thanks!]

(New York, NY) – The New York Public Library has teamed up with Coney Island Brewing Company in Brooklyn to create a beer fit for a Founding Father – a porter based on George Washington’s handwritten “small beer” recipe, which can be found in the Library’s extensive collections. The two institutions are brewing a very [...]

Coney Island Brewing Company creates George Washington beer

[Disclaimer: Beernews.org is a leader in craft beer news and is the original source of this article. If you would like to check out more, please visit the original site. Thanks!]

(Portland, OR) – BridgePort Brewing Company, Oregon’s oldest craft brewery, will release its newest summer seasonal, Summer Squeeze, in bottles on May 16th. Deemed as the perfect lawn-mower beer, Summer Squeeze will bring relief to hot summer evenings through its crisp citrus finish. The new brew has a pale ale base with a twist of [...]

BridgePort Summer Squeeze debuts May 16th

[Disclaimer: Beernews.org is a leader in craft beer news and is the original source of this article. If you would like to check out more, please visit the original site. Thanks!]

(Lahaina, Maui, HI) – Maui Brewing Co. announces the official release of their first limited edition, packaged product, Flyin’ HI.P.HAY. The release is scheduled for May 7th; this special beer is a tribute beer for the late Glen Hay Falconer who was a mentor and best friend to MBC head brewer, Scott Freitas. A mainland, [...]

Maui Flyin’ HI.P.HAY debuts this weekend

[Disclaimer: Beernews.org is a leader in craft beer news and is the original source of this article. If you would like to check out more, please visit the original site. Thanks!]

(Pacific City, OR) – Pelican Pub and Brewery will help celebrate its 15th year with the release of three bottled beers later this month. Here are some brewery announcements: Pelican’s 15th Anniversary celebration on May 7 In honor of the Pelican’s 15th Anniversary, there will be a celebration on Saturday, May 7 and everyone is [...]

Pelican Ankle-Buster Ale, Winema Wit, Surfer’s Summer Ale coming this month

[Disclaimer: Beernews.org is a leader in craft beer news and is the original source of this article. If you would like to check out more, please visit the original site. Thanks!]

Press Releases: Coney Island Brewing Company creates George Washington beer Two Brothers Brewing Company acquires America’s Historic Roundhouse Odell Hiveranno debuts May 21st Maui Flyin’ HI.P.HAY debuts this weekend BridgePort Summer Squeeze debuts May 16th Press Releases: Maui, Odell, Two Brothers, George Washington beer, BridgePort[Disclaimer: Beernews.org is a leader in craft beer news and is [...]

Press Releases: Maui, Odell, Two Brothers, George Washington beer, BridgePort

[Disclaimer: Beernews.org is a leader in craft beer news and is the original source of this article. If you would like to check out more, please visit the original site. Thanks!]

Beer Here: Potosi Czech Style Pilsner from Potosi Brewing Isthmus Daily Page Ever since, the pilsner has perhaps been the most ubiquitous beer style. The distinctive Czech version is very flavorful, with lots of mouthfeel and body, the standard from which other pilsners are often compared. After perfecting the recipe in its ... and more »

OregonLive.com (blog)

Cascade Saison, Sasquatch fests Saturday; beer with mom on Sunday: The Beer ... OregonLive.com (blog) 2 on RateBeer's Top New Breweries in the World for 2011, Stillwater Artisanal Ales of Baltimore is making a big buzz in the beer world and brewer Brian Strumke has built a cult following for his farmhouse-inspired beers. He'll stop by the BeerMongers ... and more »

IdahoStatesman.com

Craft Beer Week: How to taste beer that tastes good Vancouver Sun (blog) Craft beer can be a real punch in the taste buds, but there are a few rules and a lot of science that dictate how beers are supposed to taste. "In any particular style of beer you are looking for a ... American Craft Beer Week 2011 – Sun King Brewing EventsTheFullPint.com Vancouver Craft Beer WeekNews1130 Beer connoisseur? This trip's for youOCRegister IdahoStatesman.com -Metro Canada - Vancouver -Brand X all 8 news articles »

al.com

Dale Earnhardt Jr. plans to share a beer with his mom on Mother's Day al.com "We're just going to hang out together out by the pool and drink a couple beers I guess." Say what? Do you actually drink beer with your mother, he was asked again. "She's like that," he said. "Well, she drinks wine basically, but she'll drink a beer. ... and more »

There is no shortage of hop bombs when it comes to Colorado beers. But only one Colorado beer has ever been crowned the Alpha King: Hop Vivant from Mountain Sun -- and it's back on tap this weekend at all three Mountain Sun locations.

(photo credit: uncle crappy)   Beers: MSB Black Watch Ale, MSB Ale of Avalon, Hoppin Frog Cask Conditioned B.O.R.I.S.,  Marietta Paw Paw Wheat, Tallgrass Oasis, Tallgrass Buffalo Sweat Stout, Tallgrass Halcyon, Tallgrass Ale, Tallgrass IPA, Gordon Bi

You put your left hand in, You put your left hand out; You put your left hand in, And grab a Wake Up Dead Imperial Stout. You do the 400 lb Monkey, And you turn yourself around. That's...

Latest episode from Brewing TV gets hands-on with firkins at Summit Brewing Company. Cask ale is a segment of craft beer that is becoming more and more popular with beer-lovers in the United States. But many of us have no idea how it works. Hosts Jake Keeler and Michael Dawson are put to work by [...]

It’s my great pleasure to host our 51st Session, my second time playing host over the four years we’ve been doing them. I chose a frightfully complicated topic which I’ve taken to calling by an overly grand name: The Great Online Beer & Cheese-Off. You can go back and read the long, original version of [...]

Background The monthly roundtable of beer writers/bloggers that is The Session is convened the first Friday of every month. A different host announces a theme of their choosing each month and plays the role of host and gatherer of submissions on the topic. (For a history of all Sessions, check out Jay's compilation of monthly wrap-ups.) This month, May 2011, Jay Brooks took the helm. He

Beer geek meets girl originally appeared on Hop Talk.

Beer geek meets girl originally appeared on Hop Talk. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hZbE8ebQdwE I’m glad we’re not like that, right guys? Guys? (via Brookston Beer Bulletin) Related Posts:Glass Beer Boot from VAT19.comI like beerLooking for a job sucksThe Octopus and the beer bottleBeer-fetching dogPowered by Contextual Related Posts

In celebration of American Craft Beer (May 16-22), the Iowa Brewers Guild is launching the First Annual Iowa Craft Beer Festival on May 21 in downtown Des Moines. There will be an onslaught of beers from over 20 of Iowa’s breweries, as well as more from regional and national breweries of note. Music, food and fun. [...]