Category: breweries

A New Look for Grain Belt

By on January 28, 2014in breweries

The look of Grain Belt really hasn’t changed much over the years. And while Schell’s has owned the brand since 2002, they’ve always been fairly hesitant to change the look of Grain Belt. Certainly a facelift for Grain Belt needs to be treated delicately, given it’s dedicated following and rich history.

According to Schell’s Jace Marti, the new design drew inspiration from the aesthetics of Grain Belt’s look back in the 50s and 60s, – iconic and classy. “When we finally decided it was time to update the packaging, that look was what immediately came to mind. It’s a great family look that stays true to it’s roots…”The brewery has also acquired some great old Grain Belt ads and artwork that will serve as inspiration for new ads and signage for the brand “It’s going to be such a stark contrast to all the American Lager ads you see out there today, I think it’s really going to be a fun, refreshing change.” Very true! Look for the new campaign in February.

Surly Asator Viking IPA

By on January 27, 2014in breweries

 

assviking

Ashes to ashes, dust to dust, if you don’t like metal (or at least beer), this post is a bust! Bonus points if you can pick the song and artist whose lyrics I (poorly) co-opted.*

In any case, whether or not metal is your thing, Surly has a new limited draft release beer that might just tickle your proverbial fancy. Surly brewed Asator Viking IPA for an upcoming Amon Amarth metal show at Mill City Nights on February 8th. Asator is a dark IPA brewed with peated malt and fermented on oak. If you’ve ever visited the brewery, you’ve likely heard a blast or two of metal: “The Surly production team is fueled by metal, so what better way to honor three of our favorite bands who have braved the winter to perform for Minnesota.” said head-banger…er brewmaster, Todd Haug.

You’ll be able to catch a taste of Asator Viking IPA at show first, and then for a very limited time at the Surly Taproom starting on Wednesday, February 12.

Boom Island Taproom Opens Next Saturday

By on January 24, 2014in breweries
Photo lifted from their Facebook page.

Photo lifted from their Facebook page because that’s how we roll…

Congrats to Boom Island! After a move and lots of hard work, they’ve announce that their taproom will open for the first time on Saturday, February 1st, from noon-9pm! They plan to hold regular hours starting that Wednesday (Feb. 5th): Wednesday-Friday 4-9pm, Saturdays 1-9pm. Also look for tours to be scheduled later in the month.
2014 Washington Avenue North

Location: ½ block north of the intersection of Washington and Broadway off 94. Park on the street on Washington, on 21st Ave, or on N. 2nd St (Donny Dirk’s is at the corner of 21st Ave North and N. 2nd St). The taproom’s entrance is at the back of our building. There is a small parking lot, so we suggest you score a spot on the street.

Are You Headed to The Beer Dabbler Saturday?

By on January 24, 2014in breweries

If so, hopefully you have tickets as the event is sold out and Craigslist seems to be full of folks that want tickets. Sadly I’ll be working tomorrow, throwing snowshoes on peoples’ feet at another (beer-less) outdoor event. Even worse? I volunteered myself for the gig. So beer friends, Dabble and dabble some more. Take lots of pictures and be sure to throw the #mnbeer hashtag on your tweets!

In the spirit of Buzzfeed and other list purveyors, here are the 10 things I’ll miss the most about missing Saturday’s Beer Dabbler event:

1. Beer from newcomers Burning Brothers & Day Block Brewing
2. The James Page folks & Osker Blues folks duking it out over who really was the first craft brewery in cans
3. Sims
4. Random dudes wearing horse head mask(s)
5. Beer from our friends in the plans of Fargo & Moorhead, Fargo Brewing Co. & Junkyard Brewing
6. Freezing dude in kilt.
7. Winchfest
8. NateDogs
9. Pelting intoxicated people with snowballs during the World’s Largest Snowball Fight
10. Having a beer with you. Seriously.

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