CAMRA National Cider and Perry Championships 2010 Devon and Gloucestershire producers top of the tree!

Cider-

GOLD- Sandford Orchards, Cider (Crediton, Devon)

SILVER- Gwynt y Ddraig, Black Dragon (Llantwit Fardre, South Wales)

BRONZE- Pickled Pig, Porker’s Snout (Stretham, Cambridgeshire)

Perry-

GOLD- Hartlands, Farmhouse Perry (Tirley, Gloucestershire)

SILVER- Rathays, Brandy (Sutton St Nicholas, Herefordshire)

BRONZE- Ralph’s, Old Badland Perry (New Radnor, Powys)

CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, has today announced the overall winners of the National Cider and Perry Championships 2010. The competition is held annually at the Reading Beer and Cider Festival, Reading, Berkshire.

The winner of the Cider Gold medal is Sandford Orchards Cider, which the judges described as ‘having a fruity aroma with wonderful honeysuckle and banana notes, and a long, sweet aftertaste’.

The winner of the Perry Gold medal is Hartlands Farmhouse Perry, which the judges described as ‘a beautiful perry, well-balanced in aroma and taste, with a great combination of spice and sweetness’.

CAMRA’s National Cider and Perry Championships 2010 in Reading featured 24 ciders and 24 perries, selected from different regions of the UK, and assessed on factors such as aroma, flavour, overall balance and finish by a judging panel consisting of publicans, drinks writers and CAMRA members.

Delighted at the news of the cider competition, Barnaby Butterfield of Sandford Orchards cider, said:

‘I’m staggered, as we’ve been making cider by artisan methods for many years, and we always endeavour to use old fashioned methods. It’s having this recognition that makes all the hard work worth it- I’m totally gobsmacked!’

On hearing the results of the perry competition, Dereck Hartland of Hartlands, said:

‘It’s wonderful news, and to say I’m delighted is an understatement. I can retire a happy man and it’s the highlight of my year!’

Andrea Briers, CAMRA National Cider and Perry committee chairman, praised the quality of this year’s entrants. She said:

‘The competition today brought out a wide range of tastes and aromas, and was a real showcase for the craft cider and perry industry. CAMRA just hopes that any future Government puts in place measures that will protect this historic industry, and ensure these award winning producers are able to continue producing such quality.’

CAMRA launches ‘Local Cider’ and ‘Local Perry’ stickers

As part of its continuing campaign to promote pubs selling real cider and perry at the bar, CAMRA has launched a new pump clip crowner initiative to make it easier for drinkers to know whether they are drinking local produce. Having launched the initiative this week, CAMRA branches across the UK will be supplying their local pubs that serve local real cider and perry with these pump clip crowners, with the definition of ‘local’ varying to accommodate for areas of the UK where real cider and perry is not as common.

Boulevard Brewing Reports for Fundraising Duty Brewery to sponsor U.S.S. Missouri (SSN-780) Commissioning

KANSAS CITY, Mo., April 30, 2010 – When Boulevard Brewing Company began to consider becoming an official sponsor of the U.S.S. Missouri (SSN-780) Commissioning Committee, the Kansas City craft brewer knew right away that it didn’t want to simply cut a check. Instead, Missouri’s largest American-owned brewery saw an opportunity to inform citizens about the new Virginia-class submarine while enlisting their participation in this historic event.

For every barrel of Boulevard beer sold in the state of Missouri during the months of May, June, and July, the company will contribute $1.00 to the Commissioning Committee. “No matter what Boulevard product a customer buys—a six-pack, a bottle of one of our Smokestack beers, or a pint at any Missouri bar or restaurant—money will be contributed to the Commissioning,” said Bob Sullivan, Boulevard’s chief sales and marketing officer. “With 40% of our sales coming from Missouri, we’re on track to be the event’s single largest contributor.”

In April, 12‑pack containers of gold medal-winning Boulevard Pilsner debuted in packages showcasing Boulevard’s sponsorship and featuring an illustration of the submarine. The brewery also created distinctive glassware, server apparel, and other materials retailers can use to promote the campaign. “The number of accounts that have embraced this opportunity has blown us away,” said Tod Smith, director of sales for the brewery. “It’s been really gratifying to see Missourians sense of pride and their eagerness to support our troops.”

The U.S.S. Missouri is the seventh of the new Virginia-class submarines. Longer than a football field and weighing in at more than 7,800 tons, she is manned by a crew of 134, who will go to sea for months at a time. The commissioning will take place on July 31st in Groton, Conn. The ship is expected to see at least 30 years of active duty.

About Boulevard Brewing Company
Boulevard Brewing Company has grown to be the largest specialty brewer in the Midwest, dedicated to the craft of producing fresh, flavorful beers using traditional ingredients and the best of both old and new brewing techniques. Boulevard’s portfolio of year-round and seasonal beers are available in 12 Midwestern states, with selected offerings distributed in an additional eight states.

CAMRA National Mild Month- May 2010 UK real ale drinkers toast increase in fortunes of once ‘endangered’ beer style

Issued: Friday April 30^th 2010

CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, has kicked off celebrations for its National Mild in May campaign with the release of new research showing the increasing profile of the Mild beer style.

In a survey to 500 real ale drinkers spread across the UK, CAMRA found that 64% of drinkers have seen an increase in the number of Mild beers served at pubs and beer festivals over the past 5 years. Similarly, 75% of those surveyed also noted the availability of Mild beers in pubs and brewery shops within a 30 mile radius of their home.

The aim of National Mild Month is to encourage local pubs to stock a Mild throughout the month of May, and to encourage trial of this traditional beer style through initiatives such as ‘try before you buys’, third pint sampling measures, Mild beer and food matching events, and Mild beer tasting sessions.

Once classified as an endangered beer style, there are now over 200 Milds brewed in the UK, more than double the number brewed at the end of the 20^th century. CAMRA’s research shows that even a proportion of real ale drinkers are unaware of this huge amount of variety, with 41% unaware of the fact there are over 200 Mild beers brewed in the UK.

Speaking before the launch of CAMRA’s Mild in May campaign, Duncan Woodhead, CAMRA National Beer Styles Co-ordinator, said:

‘This new research really reinforces the fact that today’s discerning drinkers are helping to bring back traditional beer styles such as the Mild into pubs, and from a broader perspective, as a conventionally less bitter, lower in alcohol alternative to other beers, this wider availability of the Mild is great news for getting more drinkers to try the delights of real ale for the first time.

‘In the last 6 months alone, some of the UK’s leading brewers have reverted back to calling their renowned brands a ‘Mild’, and with the overall growth of the real ale industry coinciding with figures showing 50% of UK drinkers have now tried real ale, there’s a real opportunity for the Mild to return to its former glory, when in the 1950’s it was the nation’s most popular beer style.

In the same survey, CAMRA asked real ale drinkers to name their best loved Milds. The top three most popular from the sample of 500 drinkers were Rudgate brewery’s (of Tockwith, York, North Yorkshire) Ruby Mild, which is CAMRA’s current Champion Beer of Britain, Sarah Hughes brewery’s (of Sedgley, Dudley, West Midlands) Dark Ruby, and West Berkshire brewery’s (of Yattendon, Berkshire) Maggs’ Magnificent Mild.

Crystal Mountain brews a summer tradition

THOMPSONVILLE, MICH – The Michigan Beer & Brat Festival is one of northern Michigan’s fastest growing Memorial Day Weekend traditions and returns to Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa, Saturday, May 29 (4-9pm).

The Michigan Beer & Brat Festival welcomed over 1,500 to the base of Crystal’s slopes for last year’s event with room to spare for brewers and beer-lovers alike. In celebration of its fifth year, the festival will be extended to five hours (4-9pm) offering more time to sample over 50 different Michigan microbrews from Short’s, New Holland, Bell’s, Founder’s, Keweenau, Arcadia, Right Brain, Tri-City, North Peak Brewing Company, The Livery and others. Beer is only half the equation as over a dozen specialty brats, ranging in flavor from spicy jalapeno to tart cherry, will be served hot off the grill.

Admission to the Michigan Beer & Brat Festival is $5 and includes entertainment. The rebel rootgrass and reggae and swashbuckling folk and blues of Rootstand will be featured on stage (www.rootstand.com).

The Michigan Beer & Brat Festival package, from $79 per adult, per night, includes lodging, admission to the festival plus ten beer and brat tickets – that’s enough to sample five different microbrews. Add unlimited golf to the festival package with rates starting from $129 per adult, per night.

The Michigan Beer & Brat Festival is certainly the highlight but just one of many activities during the holiday weekend. Both the Crystal Coaster alpine slide and Park at Water’s Edge are set to open (weather permitting). The Golf Practice Center will host the annual FREE Golf Demo Day (May 29, 10am-4pm) featuring clubs from Callaway, Titleist, Cobra, Cleveland and more. Plus, free clinics, games, food and prizes.

The Delta Hop is Dawning at the Harpoon Brewery

The Harpoon Brewery Announces the 31st 100 Barrel Series Beer: Harpoon Single Hop ESB The first beer in the world to be single hop-brewed and commercially released using the new Delta hop

Boston, MA (April 2010) – This April the Harpoon Brewery released the newest installment of their 100 Barrel Series, the Harpoon Single Hop ESB. This is the 31st offering from Harpoon’s 100 Barrel Series, the brewery’s line of unique, handcrafted limited batch beers. The Single Hop ESB was brewed using a single, newly developed hop varietal called the “Delta” hop. It is the first beer in the world to be single hop-brewed and commercially released using the new Delta hop.

The Harpoon 100 Barrel Series Single Hop ESB (Extra Special Bitter) was brewed by Harpoon brewer Charlie Cummings. The idea for this beer surfaced in 2008 when Cummings brewed a couple of test batches on Harpoon’s pilot system. The Single Hop ESB came to fruition when Hopsteiner, Harpoon’s main hop provider, sent a sample of a brand new American-grown hop they were developing to the brewery. Already excited about brewing an ESB, Cummings jumped on the rare opportunity to brew a 100 Barrel Series beer using a single hop varietal, the Delta hop.

"I had been looking forward to brewing this beer for years,” says Cummings. “With the arrival of this brand new hop varietal, Delta, we were able to craft a tasty session ale with unique, strong flavors."

A cross between Fuggle and Cascade hops, Delta hops yield an unrestrained earthy aroma and taste that complement the rich flavors of the traditional British malts and yeast. To ensure that the Delta hop’s natural characteristics remained the focal point of the beer, the hops were added three times during the boil, once during the whirlpool phase, and finally, the beer was dry-hopped with the Delta hops.

The recipe for this beer is a nod to the beloved Harpoon ESB, which was last brewed in 2002. For this version, Cummings used a combination of British malts including Munton’s Maris Otter, Munton’s Crystal, and British chocolate malts. A traditional British yeast strain was used to give the beer a bready backbone to balance the prominent hop character. The result is a deep amber-colored beer with an earthy, fresh aroma and a fruity, biscuity flavor.

Cummings recommends pairing this beer with a traditional British "Ploughman's Lunch" of Farmhouse cheddar, bread, ham, pickled onions, apple, and mustard. Or pair it with something that has a little more kick, such as grilled pork tenderloin in a spicy Mexican mole sauce.

The Harpoon 100 Barrel Series Single Hop ESB is now available in select locations in 22 oz. bottles and on draft. A live chat about the beer with Charlie Cummings and Mike Sutton of Hopsteiner will take place on the Harpoon website (www.harpoonbrewery.com) on Wednesday, May 12th at noon.

Harpoon 100 Barrel Series Single Hop ESB Beer Specifications:
O.G.: 14.8
I.B.U.: 38
ABV: 5.8%

For additional information about the Harpoon Brewery and the Harpoon 100 Barrel Series, please contact Liz Melby at lmelby@harpoonbrewery.com.

About the Harpoon 100 Barrel Series:
Harpoon introduced the 100 Barrel Series in 2003 to showcase the individual brewing talents of their brewers. Every couple months, a different Harpoon brewer is invited to choose a style of beer, formulate the recipe, and brew the beer. That brewer’s signature can be found on the bottle label. The beers in the series are one-offs; they are brewed in limited batches and are available only until the batch sells out. Since the series began 7 years ago, 31 different styles of beer have been brewed. For a complete list of beers that have been released as part of the 100 Barrel Series, visit http://www.harpoonbrewery.com/index.cfm/page/Full-Series-History/pid/28516.

About the Harpoon Brewery:
The Harpoon Brewery was founded by beers lovers, Rich Doyle and Dan Kenary. In 1986 Harpoon was issued Brewing Permit #001 by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, since it was the first brewery to brew commercially in the state after a dormant period of about 25 years. Harpoon’s line of craft beer features its award-winning IPA and UFO Hefeweizen beers, along with four special seasonal selections. In 2000 Harpoon purchased a second brewery in Windsor, VT, making Harpoon the 10th largest craft brewer in the US. Harpoon has since introduced two lines of limited edition beers, the 100 Barrel Series and the Leviathan Series, as well as the all-natural Harpoon Cider made from freshly pressed, local apples. For more information about Harpoon beers and visiting the breweries, visit www.harpoonbrewery.com.

THE GRIFFIN GROUP ACQUIRES ANCHOR BREWING COMPANY AND ESTABLISHES ANCHOR BREWERS & DISTILLERS, LLC

Acquisition Continues the Legacy of a San Francisco Icon

(San Francisco, CA) – April 27, 2010 – The Griffin Group, an investment and consulting company focused on beverage alcohol brands, announced its acquisition of Anchor Brewing Company which includes its portfolio of craft beers and artisan spirits, including the award winning Anchor Steam Beer.

The Griffin Group is led by beverage alcohol veterans, Keith Greggor and Tony Foglio, two longtime San Francisco residents who have been working with Anchor Brewing Company’s owner, Fritz Maytag to maintain the iconic brewery and distillery in San Francisco.

“Anchor Brewing Company has a long history in San Francisco and The Griffin Group is ushering in an exciting era while maintaining our proud, time-honored history,” said Fritz Maytag. “Combining Keith and Tony’s passion for the Anchor Brewing Company, their industry experience and expertise only means that Anchor will be enjoyed in San Francisco for generations to come.”

“Since 1896, Anchor Brewing Company has been an icon of San Francisco’s history and culture,” stated Griffin’s Founding Partner, Keith Greggor, “I am honored to bring Anchor Brewing Company into our family of craft beers and artisanal spirits through establishing Anchor Brewers & Distillers, LLC.”

Anchor Brewers & Distillers intends to establish a “Center of Excellence” in San Francisco for craft brewers and artisan distillers from around the world. An epicenter of development, education, entertainment and innovation, all designed to further contribute to the culture and heritage of craft beer and artisan spirits.

“San Francisco is the perfect place to establish this center,” stated Tony Foglio, “Through our extensive portfolio of craft beers and fine spirits our focus will be to educate and satisfy the increasing consumer demand for authentic, quality and natural products that reflect the passion of their creators.”

Continuing the Anchor heritage, Mr. Maytag has been named Chairman Emeritus of Anchor Brewers & Distillers.

The Griffin Group operates as both boutique merchant and investment bank for premiere craft beers and artisan spirits. In addition to the Anchor Beers, The Griffin Group will assume control of the spirits brands including Old Potrero Whiskey, Junipero Gin and Genevieve Gin through the acquisition of Anchor Brewing Company. Additional affiliated companies to be held under Anchor Brewers & Distillers include Preiss Imports, a leading US specialist spirits and beer importer, and BrewDog USA, LLC, the US division of the leading UK craft beer.

The Griffin Group is headquartered in Novato, Marin County, California.

# # #

About The Griffin Group

The Griffin Group is a San Francisco-based investment and consulting company focused on optimizing beverage alcohol brands. Led by spirits industry veterans, Keith Greggor and Tony Foglio, The Griffin Group operates as both boutique merchant and investment bank for premiere craft beers and artisan spirits. The Griffin Group and its affiliated companies own, distribute and market a full portfolio of family-owned, multi-generational craft beers and artisan spirits. The Griffin Group established Anchor Brewers & Distillers, LLC in 2010 to further and contribute to the culture and heritage of craft beers and artisan spirits.

www.tgg.us.com

About Anchor Brewing Company

Fritz Maytag acquired Anchor in 1965 reviving this old brewery with a history dating back to 1870. At a time when mass breweries seemed unstoppable, Maytag started a revolution in beer that initiated today’s craft beer movement. He held the simple belief that beer made from the finest natural ingredients under strict brewing conditions and supervision would find an audience. In 1993 Maytag’s fascination with fermentation led to distillation in addition to brewing, helping establish another new US movement, craft distilling. Today, Maytag is the Chairman of the US Craft Distillers Group.

www.anchorbrewing.com

About Preiss Imports

Henry Preiss is a second-generation fine spirits importer. He has accumulated arguably the finest collection of spirits from around the world. All are from family companies most of which are multi-generational. These products are sought by enthusiasts and cocktail mixologists alike for their superior hand crafted artisanal qualities. Preiss Imports was acquired through Griffin in 2008. It’s portfolio includes: A.H. Hirsch, Armorik, BenRiach, Berry’s Own Selection, BlackBull, BrewDog, Briottet, Cachaca 21, Cadenhead, Chateau Breuil, Chateau du Busca, Chateau Montifaud, Chateau Paulet, Chinaco, Chinchon, Christian Drouin, Coopers, D’Aristi, Darroze, Don Cesar, Duncan Taylor, English Harbor, Etter, F.Meyer, Glen Breton, GlenDronach, Glen Scotia, Inchmurrin & Littlemill, Grand Fond Galion, Granier Mon Pastis, Hazelburn, Hugo, Hum, Kilkerran, King’s Ginger Liqueur, Leopald Gourmel, Lepanto, Longrow, Luxardo, Mandarin Napoleon, Mangoustan’s, Mitchell’s Glengyle, Old Raj, Noyau de Poissy, Pages, Pastis Prado, Pommeau de Normandie, Pontarlier, Saint Paul, Sathenay, Senior & Co, Soberano, Springbank, Toucano, Tres Vieux Marc de Bourgogne, Van Hoo, Vedrenne, Verveine de Velay, Warninks Advocaat, Ypioca.

www.preissimports.com

About BrewDog USA, LLC

BrewDog PLC is UK’s leading craft beer brewery and Scotland’s largest independent brewery. The Griffin Group acquired a minority stake in BrewDog in 2009 and formed a joint venture, BrewDog USA, to further develop BrewDog’s US presence.

www.brewdog.com

Michigan Craft Beer “Enthusiasts” Offered Summer Brewery Tours

(EAST LANSING, Mich) – One of the benefits of membership in the Michigan Brewers Guild “Enthusiast” program is special VIP tours and tastings at member breweries around the state. To participate in one of these special tours, one must be a current Enthusiast member – a group dedicated to celebrating the growing craft beer industry in the Great Lakes State. Enthusiast memberships are $25 each and are available online at www.michiganbrewersguild.org/beernut.asp. There is no additional charge for the tours, but reservations are recommended and attendees must show their Enthusiast card.

The Summer 2010 schedule begins April 24 at Jamesport Brewing Company in Ludington and ends Saturday, July 31 at New Holland Brewing Company in Holland, and visits more than a half dozen Guild member breweries. The upcoming tour line-up includes:

Saturday, April 24 (1-6pm)
Jamesport Brewing Co
410 S James St., Ludington
Ludington, MI 49431
(231) 845-2522
www.jamesportbrewingco.com

Tom Buchannan, brewmaster will teach beer school 101, pairings and a tasting starting at 1 pm. $1 off pints, $1 appetizers and $1 off flights of beer. Enthusiast members will receive $1 off their first pint. RSVP to Tom: 231-723-2526

Saturday, May 8 (3pm)
The Livery
190 5th St.
Benton Harbor, MI 49022
www.liverybrew.com

There will be a tour of our pub and building with some local history, followed by a tour of our extensive 1000 sq/ft brewery. All tour participants will receive $1 off pints between 3:00 and 5:00. Contact Steve Berthel at 269-352-1633 or steve@liverybrew.com by May 1 to RSVP.

Saturday, May 15 (Noon)
Saugatuck Brewing Company Inc.
2948 Blue Star Hwy.
Douglas, MI 49406
(269) 857-7222
www.saugatuckbrewing.com

Join Barry Johnson, brewmaster and owner of Saugatuck Brewing Co., for a guided tour of the brewery. Enthusiast members will get $1 off their first pint. RSVP to Barry Johnson: brumstr@comcast.net

Saturday, May 22 (1pm)
Founders Brewing Co.
235 Grandville SW
Grand Rapids, Michigan
(616) 776-1195
www.foundersbrewing.com

This will be a guided tour of Founders, lead by their brewing team, and is limited to the first 25 people. This tour will offer $1 off first pint for enthusiast members as well as a tasting for tour goers. RSVP to Dave: Dave@foundersbrewing.com

Saturday, June 19 (1-2pm)
Arcadia Brewing Co
103 West Michigan Avenue
Battle Creek, MI 49017
(269) 963.9520
www.arcadiaales.com

A guided tour by Brewmaster Josh Davies through Arcadia’s production facility. $1 off first pint for Enthusiast members only. RSVP to Josh Davies: jdavies@arcadiaales.com

Saturday, June 26 (1pm)
DarkHorse Brewing Co
511 S. Kalamazoo Ave.
Marshall, MI 49068
(269) 781-9940
www.darkhorsebrewery.com

Join the jolly crew at Darkhorse Brewing for a tour of their new space, brewery and tap room. Bryan Wiggs will lead you through the brewery to educate your mind and soul of the DarkHorse nation. $1 off Enthusiast member’s first pint. Many beers on tap as well as food if you are hungry available in the pub.

Saturday, July 31 (1pm)
New Holland Brewing Tour
690 Commerce Court
Holland, MI 49423
(616) 355-6422
www.newhollandbrew.com

This tour will consist of a tour from the New Holland Brewing staff and a guided tasting of 5 beers afterwards for Enthusiasts. Tour members will receive a $1 their first pint at the pub, 66 E. 8th Street, Holland. RSVP to Phil: phil@newhollandbrew.com

At just $25, a Michigan Brewers Guild “Enthusiast” membership makes a locally-focused, affordable holiday gift for the craft beer lover on your list. Benefits include VIP status at our various festivals with early admission, discounts at participating membership brewpubs, special VIP brewery tours, and a free t-shirt proclaiming your Michigan Beer Nuttiness. Purchase your Enthusiast membership online at www.michiganbrewersguild.org/beernut.asp.

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 #6 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.

IRON HILL BREWERY & RESTAURANT ANNOUNCES 10th ANNUAL BRANDYWINE VALLEY CRAFT BREWERS FESTIVAL

MEDIA, PA – On Saturday, May 15, from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m., the region’s most celebrated brewery and dining destination, Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant (30 East State Street, 610-627-9000), will host the 10th annual Brandywine Valley Craft Brewers Festival. This exciting event showcases the latest offerings from 25 regional breweries, with all proceeds donated to Media Youth Center. Tickets are $40 online and $45 at the door; advance ticket purchase is advised, as this event often sells out early.

Invited breweries include: Appalachian Brewing Company, Bethlehem Brew Works, Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, Flying Fish Brewing Company, Lancaster Brewing Company, McKenzie Brew House, Nodding Head Brewery & Restaurant, Philadelphia Brewing Company, Riverhorse Brewing Company, Rock Bottom Brewery, Sly Fox Brewery, Stewart’s Brewing Company, Stoudt’s Brewing Company, Triumph Brewing Company, Troegs Brewery, Victory Brewing Company, Weyerbacher Brewing Company and Yards Brewing Company.

“We have some great memories of this event from the past 10 years, lots of fun times with many amazing beers having been poured and all for a worthy cause. We’ve been holding this event in May because it coincides with American Craft Beer Week. It’s our way of celebrating the culture and contributions of craft beer while also giving back to our community,” says Mark Edelson, Iron Hill Director of Brewing Operations.

The Brandywine Valley Craft Brewers Festival will include unlimited beer tastings and live music; food will be provided by Iron Hill and available for purchase. The event will be held rain or shine. Tickets are available online at www.ironhillbrewery.com.

All proceeds will be donated to the Media Youth Center. Since its inception, the Brandywine Valley Craft Brewers Festival has generated more than $75,000 for the Center.

Since 1996, Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant has consistently been recognized for its outstanding beers and cuisine, accruing over 100 “Best of” awards from regional magazines. Their hand-crafted beers have also won acclaim and in total, they have received 46 medals/awards from the two most prestigious beer events, the Great American Beer Festival and World Beer Cup.

Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant has eight locations, in Newark, DE; Wilmington, DE; Media, PA; West Chester, PA; North Wales, PA; Phoenixville, PA; Lancaster, PA; and Maple Shade, NJ. All eight locations are open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.

For more information on the Brandywine Valley Brewers Festival, please call Iron Hill Media at (610) 627-9000 or purchase a ticket online at www.ironhillbrewery.com.

THE EVOLUTION OF BEER GOES GREEN FOR EARTH DAY: OSKAR BLUES ALUMINUM CAN

Oskar Blues Brewery’s Cans Bring Gargantuan Flavor with Miniscule Environmental Impact

LONGMONT, Colo. (April 20, 2010) - What beverage-packaging material is endlessly, quickly and 100 percent recyclable, doesn’t break down, and holds one of America’s top craft beers? Here’s a hint: It ain’t glass.

As they celebrate Earth Day this April 22, Oskar Blues Brewery is two-stepping up its earth-lovin’ efforts with its celebrated aluminum can at the center of it all.

For Oskar Blues Brewery, aluminum cans have always been the perfect place for its big, mind blowing award-winning craft beers. Cans are portable and unbreakable, and they keep beer fresh by protecting it from light and oxygen. And unlike cans of old, the modern aluminum does not transfer the taste of the metal to the beer. Eww.

Cans are also earth-friendly. Every part of the can is recyclable, with less energy than it takes to recycle glass. It can be recycled and back on the shelf again in about a month. As a bonus, aluminum cans are much lighter than glass, so they consume less fuel to ship.

Its legendary cans are only one of the earth-friendly efforts at Oskar Blues. The company is also working on a zero-waste project with Eco-Cycle Inc. In January and February alone, Oskar Blues saved over 17,000 gallons of water and 13,000 kilowatt hours of energy. They’ve prevented over 150 pounds of pollutants from entering the atmosphere, and saved 35 yards of landfill space and 43 trees.

By joining the canned beer apocalypse, people can help prevent the Earth’s apocalypse. Flavor-busting beer in a can is also the environmentally responsible way to go. No wonder it’s what the smart monkeys drink.

Set in the heart of Colorado craft beer country, Oskar Blues Brewery in Lyons began canning its beers in November of 2002 with a hand-canning line in the 60-year-old barn next door to their funky little brewpub. Although it’s now a full-throttle canning operation that is quickly expanding its cult-like following across the nation, Oskar Blues remains true to its original mission of simply blowing minds with what can come out of a can of beer.

For more information about where to purchase Oskar Blues beer visit http://www.oskarblues.com/locations/.

500 Election Candidates sign up to support CAMRA Charter

Issued: Monday April 19^th 2010

Status: For immediate use

Following the launch of CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale’s Beer Drinkers and Pub Goers Charter in February, over 500 Prospective Parliamentary Candidates (PPCs) have signed up to five commitments to speak up for community pubs, real ale and consumers if elected.

Among the supporters are Green Party Leader Caroline Lucas, Labour PPC Ruth Smeeth, Conservative PPC Nigel Evans and Nick Clegg, Leader of the Liberal Democrats.

On the basis of current polling, well over 100 of these supporters are set to be elected on May 6^th.

Mike Benner, CAMRA Chief Executive said:

‘The overwhelming response from PPCs is great news for beer drinkers and pub goers across the UK. We expect the next parliament to contain a huge number of MPs who have committed to vital reforms which are necessary to save the UK pub industry.

‘The issues that matter to CAMRA like reform of the beer tie, protection of community pubs and a fair deal for consumers can no longer be ignored by politicians. Many of CAMRA’s key policies including reform of planning law, amendment of licensing law and encouraging responsible drinking featured in each of the main parties’ manifestos last week.’

Nick Clegg, Liberal Democrat Leader said:

‘I am proud to be a signatory to the charter and to help bring attention to the much-needed support required for well-run community pubs, local brewers and consumer rights which all contribute to community life and boost the local economy.

‘Well-run pubs are important to tackling alcohol misuse, they are not part of the problem. Government policies, such as continually raising duty on beer and refusing to reform the beer tie, have led to a situation in which more than 5 pubs a day are said to be closing. It is hugely important that we stand up for the pub industry during these difficult times.’

Paul Kenny, Labour PPC for Boston and Skegness said: 'I think that CAMRA has done a sterling job over the years and I am very happy to back their Charter. Decent and well-run pubs are the bedrock of our communities and deserve our support.'

Claire Perry, Conservative PPC for Devizes said: 'I absolutely agree with all of your aims and believe a village pub to be one of the pillars of the local community.'

CAMRA is now encouraging all 500 candidates to integrate their support for CAMRA’s Charter and community pubs with their election campaigning by visiting community pubs, gaining local press coverage and getting involved with their local CAMRA branch. So far PPCs have launched campaigns to save a pub in their constituency, and commissioned campaign beer mats.

Beer Filled USB Data Storage

Finally… a USB for every BEER LOVER! Perfect for everyone associated with beer and the brewing business.

This amazing electronic data storage device is filled with liquid “IMITATION BEER”, has 2GB of storage, red flash, PC compatible, MAC compatible, rewritable, made of clear vue plastic, and is obviously portable.

Our life like “HEAD FOAM” particles will not dissipate, and the golden liquid will not fade from daylight use.

When inserted into any USB port, you are ready to upload, download, store, and transfer any file.

Perfect for MP3 files, to view videos, and to run any of your applications. Buy one or a thousand!

No minimum order! In stock ready for immediate shipping. For quantities of 24 or more, custom pad printing is available for up to 4 colors on one side. The "Beer Filled" USB measures 3” x 1”.

For more information, purchase samples, pricing, distribution opportunities, and to place orders, contact Creaciones de Encargo Mfg. of Ocoee, Florida. creacionesdeencargo@gmail.com, 888-400-6532.

Fearless Critic Media's new book, "The Beer Trials"

NEW YORK, NY— We are in the midst of a beer renaissance, and the beer world now has the new guidebook it deserves: “The Beer Trials,” by Seamus Campbell and Robin Goldstein.

The past few years have seen an explosion of craft breweries across America, more imported beers arriving on the US market than ever before, and unprecedented interest in beer around every corner, from back-road neighborhood pubs to tasting menus from cutting-edge chefs.

At the heart of this new book is a ratings guide to 250 of the most important and widely available beers in the world, from craft brews to macro-lagers. Each bottle in “The Beer Trials” gets a full-page review and rating based on a rigorous set of blind tastings by beer experts led by Seamus Campbell, one of the world’s 96 Certified Cicerones (beer sommeliers). “The Beer Trials” also includes an ambitious but accessible reference guide, which takes readers on a down-to-earth tour of the world’s major beer styles, flavors, and regions.

“The Beer Trials” is the brainchild of consumer advocate and Freakonomics contributor Robin Goldstein, whose previous book, “The Wine Trials,” surprised consumers by showing a lack of connection between price and quality and became the world’s bestselling guide to inexpensive wine.

“In a world in which superpremium wines or liquors can set back consumers hundreds or even thousands of dollars per bottle,” says Goldstein, “beer offers unmatched value. Many of the world’s most sought-after beers set you back less than an average bottle of supermarket table wine.”

Only eight of the 250 beers reviewed in “The Beer Trials” cost more than
$5 per 12-ounce bottle equivalent, and 11 of the 21 beers receiving the book’s highest rating cost less than $2.50.

Goldstein’s longstanding interest in the relationship between value and taste led him to the beer mecca of Portland, Oregon, where he recruited co-author Campbell to bring together a panel of his fellow beer experts and blind-taste a broad swath of the world’s most popular beers.

The results of those blind tastings are revealed in “The Beer Trials,”
and some of them might surprise you.
While some of Belgium’s vaunted Trappist ales, for instance, scored sky-high marks (p. 119), others turned out to be disappointing (p. 247), and one Canadian beer beat most of the Belgians at their own game (p.
146). One of America’s most popular European imports, meanwhile, went belly-up in blind tastings—and also turned out to be a Jekyll-and-Hyde act, with one identity in the bottle and a different one from the tap (p. 168).

The authors’ blind tastings yielded some low-brow surprises: a certain high-alcohol malt liquor that seemed quite at home in its brown paper bag—you might well have drunk it from a 40 in your college days—did surprisingly well in the blind tastings, scoring a 6 out of 10 (p. 285), while the so-called “Male Ale” won an impressive rating of 7 (p. 154).

As for America’s most popular imported beer (p. 127), or the one you might know more affectionately as “Natty” (p. 212)? Not so impressive.

Within these pages, you’ll find brews inspired by California secessionist sentiment (p. 79), beer from the heart of wine country (p.
187), the bottle whose alcohol content is higher than wine’s (p. 138), and the IPA that has its eye on you (p. 84).

Chocoholics can satisfy their cravings in fermented form (p. 87); Mexophiles can see how Anheuser-Busch’s foray into beers featuring “natural lime flavor” (p. 110) stacks up to the pride and joy of Sinaloa (p. 230); and sci-fi aficionados can take in the lager from outer space (p. 262).

And if you think you know your favorite brand pretty well, you might want to think again: the book reveals the results of a blind tasting experiment, run by the co-authors, in which beer drinkers performed no better than chance at distinguishing between major pale lager brands—a result that offers some insight into why those mass-market beers spend so much on advertising.

“The Beer Trials” is now available at local and national bookstores, food and wine stores, powells.com, amazon.com, bn.com, and everywhere else books are sold.

NYC MAYOR BLOOMBERG DISCOVERS O’HARA’S IRISH STOUT ON ST. PATRICK’S DAY 2010

NEW YORK…April 12, 2010 – Irish jigs and O'Hara Stout swigs, New York City Mayor Bloomberg celebrates St. Patrick's Day in true Gaelic style at Adrian Flannelly's 40th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Special Broadcast at Irish Radio USA on Madison Avenue. At the O'Hara's sponsored event, Emer Kelly, O'Hara's U.S. ambassador, presented Mayor Bloomberg with a hurley, which will be proudly displayed in his office. Hurling is an outdoor team sport of ancient Gaelic origin, with the object of the game being for players to use a wooden stick called a hurley to hit a small ball called a sliotar between the opponents' goalposts. Over the crossbar awards the team one point, and under the crossbar into a guarded net awards the team three points.

O'Hara's Irish Stout was the exclusive stout and red beer sponsor of the festive event, which featured notable guests including Speaker Christine Quinn, Grand Marshal of NYC St. Patrick's Day Parade, Police Commissioner Ray Kelly, Congressman Peter King, Irish Minister Barry Andrews, Musician Jack L, and many others. Pictured here with his new O'Hara's hurley is NYC Mayor Bloomberg and Emer Kelly.

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Paulaner HP USA, purveyor of the world’s finest beers, is headquartered in Littleton, Colo., and imports Paulaner, Hacker-Pschorr, Fuller’s, O’Hara’s Irish Stout, Fruli, Birra Dolomiti and Dixie beers and Vigna Dogarina and Cavallina wines. This list of fine imports is now available throughout the United States at upscale, on-premise establishments. For more information about Paulaner HP USA visit www.paulanerhpusa.com

“HOMETOWN BOYS” LAUNCH HOMETOWN BREW

Hometown Beverages Launches New Hometown Pennsylvania Lager and Hometown Light Specialty Beers

OCEANPORT, NJ (April 6, 2010) – Hometown Beverages today announced the launch of America’s new specialty beer for the masses with the introduction of its Hometown Pennsylvania Lager and Hometown Light beers.

Hometown Beverages’ mission is to create traditional American lagers with flavors that are unique to the palate of beer drinkers in their respective area of the country. Hometown Beverages’ new Hometown Pennsylvania Lager is a classic American lager that has a deep golden color and a smooth, crisp and clean taste with subtle hops and earthy malts. Hometown Pennsylvania Lager contains 5.2 percent alcohol by volume (ABV). New Hometown Light is a classic light American lager that is a clean, refreshing, easy-to-drink beer with personality, taste and only 120 calories per 12 oz. bottle. Hometown Light contains 4.1 percent alcohol by volume (ABV).

“We are excited to announce the launch of Hometown Beverages’ Hometown Pennsylvania Lager and Hometown Light,” said Chris Curylo, co-owner of Hometown Beverages. “We wanted to create a beer that would appeal to the palate of beer lovers from specific regions. After conducting in-depth research with beer drinkers, we created the antithesis to the typical heavy craft brew – a genuine, light beer with a distinct local taste. We are confident that Pennsylvanians will love our new Hometown Pennsylvania Lager as well as our flagship beer, Hometown Light. Both are true session beers.”

Hometown Beverages specialty beers speak to the old-fashioned American tradition of enjoying good times with good friends. Hometown Beverages’ complete suite of specialty beers includes Hometown Light, Hometown Pennsylvania Lager, Hometown New Jersey Lager and Hometown New York Lager.

Hometown Beverages’ new Hometown Pennsylvania Lager and Hometown Light specialty beers are available at distributors throughout Pennsylvania and carry a suggested retail price of $24.00 per case. For more information on Hometown Beverages and its specialty beers, visit www.hometownbeverages.com.

About Hometown Beverages

Hometown Beverages is the brewer of America’s best new specialty session beers including Hometown Light, Hometown Pennsylvania Lager, Hometown New Jersey Lager and Hometown New York Lager. Chris Curylo and Bob Selsky, aka The “Hometown Boys,” are co-owners of Hometown Beverages. The company is headquartered in Oceanport, NJ, with brewing facilities in Wilkes-Barre, PA. For more information on Hometown Beverages and its products, visit www.hometownbeverages.com.

MICHELOB BREWING CO. UNVEILS GINGER WHEAT AS PART OF NEW WHEAT BEER SAMPLER PACK

Four Diverse Wheat Beers Incorporate Brewing Traditions from Around the World

ST. LOUIS (March 17, 2010) — Building from last year’s success, Michelob Brewing Co. returns with a sampler pack featuring four refreshing wheat beers for the spring and summer seasons. Michelob Ginger Wheat is the newest beer in the brewer’s growing collection of styles and is available exclusively in the seasonal sampler pack.

The 2010 Michelob Brewing Co. Spring/Summer Sampler Pack, available nationwide beginning mid-March, includes the all-new Michelob Ginger Wheat, along with the return of year-round favorites Shock Top Belgian White and Michelob Dunkel Weisse, and the spring seasonal Hop Hound Amber Wheat.

“We received a tremendous response to last year’s sampler pack, as beer enthusiasts enjoyed exploring the diversity within the wheat beer style,” said Craig Heisner, brewmaster, Michelob Brewing Co. “With our sampler pack, longtime wheat beer fans, as well as those just now growing to appreciate the style, have an opportunity to sample four very distinct beers. Pick your favorite from our Bavarian-style dark wheat Dunkel Weisse, our Belgian-style wheat ale Shock Top, our American-inspired Hop Hound Amber Wheat, and our new Asian-influenced Ginger Wheat.”

Michelob Ginger Wheat: A twist on the classic unfiltered Belgian wheat ale, brewed with wheat malt, citrus peels and spices, complemented by a spicy ginger aroma and taste.

• Malt: Two-Row, Wheat


• Hops: Cascade, Willamette; 10 IBUs


• ABV: 5.2%

Hop Hound Amber Wheat: An unfiltered American amber wheat ale that delivers a hint of subtle caramel sweetness.

• Malt: Two-Row, Wheat, Toasted and Caramel


• Hops: Cascade, Willamette, Hallertau; 20 IBUs


• ABV: 5.3%

Shock Top Belgian White: An award-winning unfiltered Belgian-style wheat ale with a cloudy and light golden color, brewed with orange, lemon and lime peels and coriander.

• Malt: Two-Row, Wheat


• Hops: Cascade, Willamette; 10 IBUs


• ABV: 5.2%

Michelob Dunkel Weisse: An unfiltered German-inspired wheat ale with a malty body and unmistakable clove and banana tones from the unique Bavarian yeast strain.

• Malt: Two-Row, Chocolate, Wheat, Caramel


• Hops: Hallertau, Tettnang; 17 IBUs


• ABV: 5.5%

“For Michelob Ginger Wheat, we took a Belgian-style wheat ale and looked to Asian cuisine for inspiration,” said Heisner. “The beer has unmistakable ginger aromas on the nose and crisp and spicy flavors on the tongue, without overpowering the other citrus notes. The first sip implores your taste buds to pair the beer with a selection of sushi and the finish cleanses your palate, getting you ready for the next bite.”

The four wheat beers are not filtered during the brewing process, giving them a cloudy, hazy appearance. When unfiltered wheat beers are bottled, the beer’s yeast settles to the bottom. To properly enjoy a wheat beer, pour about three-quarters into a beer-clean glass. Gently swirl the bottle before pouring the remainder to help redistribute the yeast and create a thick head of foam.

Every sampler pack includes a flighting sheet with tasting notes and a summary of each beer’s ingredients to reveal how the brewmasters’ recipes impact the colors, aromas and flavors found among the different styles. The flighting sheet’s glassware and food pairing recommendations provide serving tips to enhance tastings at home. MichelobSamplerPack.com also features an interactive brewmaster tasting video to guide visitors through each beer’s ingredients, color, body and brewing process.

The Michelob Spring/Summer Sampler Pack is available at grocery and convenience stores nationwide through September in 24-packs (six of each beer) and 12-packs (three of each beer).

Visit www.michelob.com for more information about Michelob Brewing Co., a small, state-of-the-art research brewery located next to Anheuser-Busch’s historic St. Louis brewery. At any given time, up to 50 different beers are being brewed in this brewmasters’ playground. Michelob Brewing Co. is a place for our brewmasters to create and experiment, with the best results earning a place in our specialty beer collection.

GOLDENER HIRSCH INN EARNS AAA's 4-DIAMONDS!

Both Inn and Restaurant Receive Coveted Awards Again in 2010

Park City, Utah--The Goldener Hirsch Inn has earned AAA's Coveted 4-Diamond Award for exemplary service for the second year in a row, and the inn's restaurant under the command of Executive Chef Michael Showers, won its sixth 4-Diamond Award this year, adding to the collection of prestigious plaques that adorn the walls of this intimate, Austrian-style hideaway on the slopes of Deer Valley Resort.

The Goldener Hirsch Inn, a romantic old-world inspired hotel, offers luxurious ski-in/ski-out accomodations in the Silver Lake Village area of Deer Valley Resort, a ski area repeatedly named #1 ski resort in North America by SKI Magazine's discerning readers. The Goldener Hirsch Inn, inspired by a hotel of the same name in Salzburg, Austria, combines the art of gracious, traditional hotel keeping with charming European ambiance. The hotel's twenty spacious rooms are furnished with hand painted European furniture, king-sized beds, wood burning fireplaces and plush linens. From the minute guests walk through the door, they are welcomed like family and many return year after year for annual ski vacations, weddings or summer alpine getaways.

At the Goldener Hirsch Inn's restaurant, Executive Chef Michael Showers features classic American/European menus, including locally raised lamb, Rocky Mountain Elk Flank Steak and the much requested Weiner Schnitzel and four-cheese fondue. Additionally, a rediscovered passion for old world cuisine inspired Chef Showers to develop an extensive Charcuterie program, the only chef in Park City to do so. House-cured lamb and duck proscuittos, various salamis and sausages, as well as confits and pates are getting rave reviews from sophisticated clientele at both the Goldener Hirsch Inn and at its sister restaurant, Ticino, serving northern Italian dishes.

For more information, visit our web site, www.GoldenerHirschInn.com