(Portsmouth, NH) – Redhook is bringing back one of his favorite fall seasonal ales, Late Harvest, for his East Coast fans. Redhook Late Harvest is a great beer to celebrate the bounty of fall and enjoy while tailgating, sitting around a bonfire or recharging after raking up the leaves in the front yard. The seasonal ale is an easy-drinking, robust, full-bodied brew with a rich flavor. Late Harvest will be available August through September in grocery stores in 12-ounce bottles and on draught throughout Redhook’s East Coast markets.
“Late Harvest is one of our more popular brews in New England,” said Andy Schwartz, brewmaster at Redhook’s Portsmouth, N.H., brewery. “We have a lot of fun brewing this beer. It uses four different malts to really bring out a distinctive flavor while maintaining a smooth, bold profile.”
Redhook Late Harvest features a deep chestnut color and roasted malt aroma and flavor. Its rich taste is the result of using the different malts, yet the robust profile remains balanced. Late Harvest has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 5.9 percent, 32 international bittering units (IBUs) and 194 calories per 12 ounces. Late Harvest will retail for approximately $8.99 per six-pack.
About Redhook
Redhook was born out of the energy and spirit of the early 80’s in the heart of Seattle. While the term didn’t exist at the time, Redhook became one of America’s first “craft” breweries. From a modest start in a former transmission shop in the Seattle neighborhood of Ballard, to the current breweries in Woodinville, Wash., and Portsmouth, N.H., Redhook has become one of America’s most recognized craft breweries. While Redhook has “grown up” over the past 30 years, one thing has never changed – it’s still brewing great beers like ESB, IPA, Copperhook, Pilsner and seasonal brews. Most importantly, Redhook makes sure it has fun doing it. Redhook’s beers are available in both draught and bottles and are distributed nationally through a network of wholesale distributors. For more information, visit www.redhook.com.
[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!]
Redhook Extra Special Birthday: Next up in the Blueline Series, “a highly modified version of ESB that replicates the flavor profile of Redhook ale in the early 80s, lovingly referred to by Seattle locals as “banana beer.” A Belgian yeast is used to create these spicy banana notes. This special brew has a deep red color, bold hops, and rich malty body. 22 oz. bottles.
“The Blueline Series beers are hand crafted by the brewers and will only be available on draft at the pub at the brewery in Woodinville, Washington (“Washington Brewery”) as well as select restaurants and public houses in the Seattle, Washington area, and as a 22-ounce bottle at exclusive bottleshops and at the Washington Brewery.”
Japanese Green Tea IPA: More info on the Stone/Ishii/Baird collaboration…Aramis hops? Read on. “When our old friends Toshi Ishii and Bryan Baird approached us about brewing something special for Japan relief efforts, we of course jumped at the opportunity. We created this very special IPA, brewed with 100% Maris Otter Malt and Belgian Candi Sugar. Once we decided to tie it all together with the addition of Japanese Sencha Green Tea in a dry-hop, the rest of the recipe came together easily. We included hops that we believe would blend well with the tea flavors, and we went non-traditional, at least in the sense of American IPAs. After bittering with Warrior hops, we used Crystal and New Zealand Pacifica for flavor. And then for the first dry hop, we again used Crystal and Pacifica, and added a brand new hop variety, Aramis, from the Alsace region of France. Then we went all Japanese for the 2nd dry-hop, with Sorachi Ace whole lead hops and the Sencha Tea. It’s always fun to use new ingredients and new hop varieties and for that, I say to Toshi and Bryan: ‘Domo Arigato!’”
Twisted X Senor Viejo Black Lager: Per Craft Austin, “announces new beer concept and partnership with Austin’s own Republic Tequila. A barrel aged Imperial Black Lager – Schwarzbier is in the making to be named Señor Viejo…”
Other labels:
Chick Premium Light Beer (brewed at Minhas Craft Brewing) Fretzy’s Unfiltered Ale
Figueroa Mountain Danish style Red Lager
[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) – I’m finally getting around to looking over Friday morning’s Craft Brewers Alliance annual report. Here is the full rundown including yet another mention of Goose Island on my back pages…
A press release issued on Thursday touted that earnings per share doubled for the company in 2010 on a healthier gross margin and increased sales revenue of 6%. That said, the real story is in the barrels. Barrelage for the three breweries totaled 584,700 in 2010 versus 582,500 a year ago. Unfortunately, the Widmer data isn’t out there to compare to 2008.
Despite nearly all “super regionals” (a term I’m stealing from Erik Myers) growing at least 8% last year, production is down for both Redhook and Widmer Brothers. Kona, on the other hand, continues to be a success story.
Redhook Ale Brewery, once the largest produced brand among the three members of the Craft Brewers Alliance, saw a decline in production of its brands equal to 5.2%. Total production has dropped over 20% since 2005. 174,000 barrels represents the lowest production tally since 1995 when the brewery made just shy of 160,000 barrels (per 1997 annual report). As for what might be driving that, Symphony IRI data shows the brewery’s top two sellers, Long Hammer IPA and ESB, experienced a decline in sales across the supermarket channel.
Widmer Brothers Brewing saw a slight dip in production of its brands in 2010 down to 277,200 barrels. Though the brewery is seeing some success stories with recent introductions like Drifter and Deadlift, the flagship beer, Hefeweizen, declining in the supermarket channel as well last year.
Both breweries have launched an entirely new look to their product lines beginning this quarter and a PR campaign makes that loud and clear. Redhook continues to work with Lane PR in getting out the message about its new bottle design. On the Widmer side, multiple bloggers (but not this one) reportedly received a “gaudy wooden box” of beer from the company this past week.
The annual report also confirmed the existence of Copperhook cans, the Blueline Series and Backyard Series. Per the report, “[The Blueline Series beers] are hand crafted by the brewers and will only be available on draft at the pub at the brewery in Woodinville, Washington (“Washington Brewery”) as well as select restaurants and public houses in the Seattle, Washington area, and as a 22-ounce bottle at exclusive bottleshops and at the Washington Brewery.” The Backyard Series has a similar slant but is limited to the Portsmouth brewery’s local market and draft-only. As for the Copperhook cans, those will be packaged at Cold Spring’s growing plant in Minnesota according to a TTB filing. Cold Spring also produces beer for the 21st Amendment Brewery and a wide range of others.
Production of Kona Brewing‘s brand grew at 18% in 2010 to 133,000 barrels, outpacing the craft beer category for the seventh straight year. It is conceivable that sales could pass Redhook within the next few years at the rate that the two companies are going. Then again, Kona wouldn’t be where it is today without the resources and support of Redhook and Widmer Brothers that it’s received over the past decade. The annual report notes that capacity at Kona’s facility in Hawaii is a mere 11,000 barrels which implies that over 92% of Kona production is happening at other CBA facilities.
Speaking of CBA facilities, annual working capacity will remain at 909,000 barrels in 2011. As a way of helping to fill the excess capacity, CBA estimates that its contract brewing program may grow up to 65,000 barrels this year. Up to 35,000 of that will be a contract with an unspecified partner. TTB filings from recent years show that the brewery has only been contracting beer for BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse.
The other 25,000 to 30,000 will be for a brewery that was a hot topic of discussion this past week, Goose Island. The brewery has more than doubled production over the past four years and, as reported throughout the past year, has virtually run out of excess capacity at Fulton Street where its primary production facility is located. Between a small expansion in Chicago and the new contract, Goose Island production could reach 160,000 barrels this year. This would place it side-by-side with Bell’s, Boulevard and Harpoon, all of which hit a pace of 150,000 barrels a year in 2010.
[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!]
Rope Swing Summer Pilsner now Doing Business as Redhook Pilsner
Redhook and his buddies enjoyed last year’s pilsner so much that he is adding it to Redhook Brewery’s year-round lineup. Already a proven recipe, this beer was one of Redhook’s most beloved and highly consumed Seasonals when it was released last summer under the guise of Rope Swing Pilsner. Redhook Pilsner is available in grocery stores in 12-ounce bottles and on draught nationwide.
“We are excited to see Pilsner return in our year-round lineup. The beer is fermented with a yeast strain rooting back to the Czech Republic, and is aged at a temperature close to freezing for four to six weeks prior to finishing and packaging for a clean, crisp finish. We also use a healthy dose of Saaz hops and unique specialty malts to ensure the style is as authentic as possible.”
– Greg Deuhs, Redhook brewmaster
Tasting Notes:
· Redhook Pilsner is brewed in an authentic Czech style.
· The pilsner offers a very soft palate and malt flavors that are offset by a medium dose of distinct Czech hops.
· Redhook Pilsner is a refreshing beer that finishes with a clean, bright, thirst-quenching quality.
Redhook Pilsner Rundown:
· Brewed in a traditional Czech style
· Alcohol by volume (ABV) of 5.3 percent
· 25 international bittering units (IBUs)
· Available in 12-ounce bottles and on draught nationwide
About Redhook
Redhook was born out of the energy and spirit of the early 80’s in the heart of Seattle. While the term didn’t exist at the time, Redhook became one of America’s first “craft” breweries. From a modest start in a former transmission shop in the Seattle neighborhood of Ballard, to the current breweries in Woodinville, Wash. and Portsmouth, N.H., Redhook has become one of America’s most recognized craft breweries. While Redhook has “grown up” over the past 30 years, one thing has never changed – it’s still brewing great beers like ESB, Long Hammer IPA, Copperhook, and seasonal brews. Most importantly, Redhook makes sure it has fun doing it. Redhook’s beers are available in both draught and bottles and are distributed nationally through a network of wholesale distributors. For more information, visit www.redhook.com
[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!]
Craft beer pioneer goes back to its roots to ring in new decade
(Woodinville, WA) – This month, Redhook Brewery, one of the nation’s founding domestic craft brewers, is celebrating its 30th birthday by unveiling a new look, including bottles, labels, bottle caps and packaging.
The new look is all part of Redhook’s effort to get back to its roots. “There seems to be a movement within the craft beer community where a lot of breweries are trying to ‘out craft’ each other,” said Robert Rentsch, brand manager of Redhook Brewery. “Redhook isn’t about that. Of course we’re brewing great beer, but we’re just as interested in having a great time. We think our new look reflects our personality well.”
The Beginning
Just like other pioneering brands such as Starbucks and Microsoft, Redhook was born out of the energy and spirit of the 80’s. In 1981, founders Paul Shipman and Gordon Bowker (who happened to be a co-founder of Starbucks) thought the people of Seattle deserved their own beer; one that offered more flavor than the lighter tasting domestics and imports that were available at the time.
Redhook started brewing beer out of a converted transmission shop in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood. After achieving local success with Ballard Bitter (known today as Long Hammer IPA) and ESB, Redhook became the first nationally distributed craft beer brand. Then came the identity crisis. “We realized we weren’t celebrating the big personality that Redhook is in the way it deserved to be celebrated,” said Rentsch.
The Evolution
After some soul-searching over a few beers, Redhook decided it needed its exterior to match its personality. The new look includes:
· Packaging/Labels: Easy-to-spot labels and packaging across all Redhook beers helps consumers quickly grab and go in the beer aisle. Every beer style is identified by a unique color scheme and Redhook’s simple beer-o-meter on the side helps pick between refreshing, smooth, bold, or dark.
· Bottle/Bottle Caps: To go back to basics, Redhook created a no-frills bottle, while the bottle caps all depict iconic images and phrases of Redhook’s colorful 30-year history, so you can drink while you reminisce. Genius.
About Redhook
Redhook was born out of the energy and spirit of the early 80’s in the heart of Seattle. While the term didn’t exist at the time, Redhook became one of America’s first “craft” breweries. From a modest start in a former transmission shop in the Seattle neighborhood of Ballard, to the current breweries in Woodinville, Wash. and Portsmouth, N.H., Redhook has become one of America’s most recognized craft breweries. While Redhook has “grown up” over the past 30 years, one thing has never changed – it’s still brewing great beers like ESB, Long Hammer IPA, Copperhook, and seasonal brews. Most importantly, Redhook makes sure it has fun doing it. Redhook’s beers are available in both draught and bottles and are distributed nationally through a network of wholesale distributors. For more information, visit www.redhook.com
[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!]
Craft beer pioneer goes back to its roots to ring in new decade
(Woodinville, WA) – This month, Redhook Brewery, one of the nation’s founding domestic craft brewers, is celebrating its 30th birthday by unveiling a new look, including bottles, labels, bottle caps and packaging.
The new look is all part of Redhook’s effort to get back to its roots. “There seems to be a movement within the craft beer community where a lot of breweries are trying to ‘out craft’ each other,” said Robert Rentsch, brand manager of Redhook Brewery. “Redhook isn’t about that. Of course we’re brewing great beer, but we’re just as interested in having a great time. We think our new look reflects our personality well.”
The Beginning
Just like other pioneering brands such as Starbucks and Microsoft, Redhook was born out of the energy and spirit of the 80’s. In 1981, founders Paul Shipman and Gordon Bowker (who happened to be a co-founder of Starbucks) thought the people of Seattle deserved their own beer; one that offered more flavor than the lighter tasting domestics and imports that were available at the time.
Redhook started brewing beer out of a converted transmission shop in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood. After achieving local success with Ballard Bitter (known today as Long Hammer IPA) and ESB, Redhook became the first nationally distributed craft beer brand. Then came the identity crisis. “We realized we weren’t celebrating the big personality that Redhook is in the way it deserved to be celebrated,” said Rentsch.
The Evolution
After some soul-searching over a few beers, Redhook decided it needed its exterior to match its personality. The new look includes:
· Packaging/Labels: Easy-to-spot labels and packaging across all Redhook beers helps consumers quickly grab and go in the beer aisle. Every beer style is identified by a unique color scheme and Redhook’s simple beer-o-meter on the side helps pick between refreshing, smooth, bold, or dark.
· Bottle/Bottle Caps: To go back to basics, Redhook created a no-frills bottle, while the bottle caps all depict iconic images and phrases of Redhook’s colorful 30-year history, so you can drink while you reminisce. Genius.
About Redhook
Redhook was born out of the energy and spirit of the early 80’s in the heart of Seattle. While the term didn’t exist at the time, Redhook became one of America’s first “craft” breweries. From a modest start in a former transmission shop in the Seattle neighborhood of Ballard, to the current breweries in Woodinville, Wash. and Portsmouth, N.H., Redhook has become one of America’s most recognized craft breweries. While Redhook has “grown up” over the past 30 years, one thing has never changed – it’s still brewing great beers like ESB, Long Hammer IPA, Copperhook, and seasonal brews. Most importantly, Redhook makes sure it has fun doing it. Redhook’s beers are available in both draught and bottles and are distributed nationally through a network of wholesale distributors. For more information, visit www.redhook.com
[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!]
RedHook Dunkelweizen: I recently reported that the brewery is bringing back the Blueline Series. They’re apparently so gungho about the comeback that the formerly draft-only series will be hitting bottles as well. Perhaps this is more of a re-brand of the “Limited Series” going forward?
Otter Creek Alpine Black IPA: the brewery is making last fall’s seasonal release a year-round offering.
Brau Brothers Forgotten Flem: If the name of this farmhouse ale doesn’t inspire confidence, I don’t know what does. (12 oz.)
Lakefront Fixed Gear: To be re-introduced, this time in 12 oz. bottles (no word on what’s happening with 22 oz. bottles)
Baying Hound Aleworks Lord Wimsey’s Mild Pale Ale: 22 oz. bottles
Highland Black Magnolia India-style Black Ale: another brewery, another Black IPA…keg-approval only for now
[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!]
The program allows Redhook’s brewers to experiment with unique and innovative brews without being “burdened with complex packaging assignments or sales performance goals,” a brewery spokesperson noted. With this in mind, Redhook produces only 3,500-gallon batches of these experimental beers that are available on at draught accounts.
“There is an intriguing component of chance with each exploratory brew,” the spokesperson said. “A Blueline beer may be extremely eccentric and appeal only to few beer connoisseurs, or the beer may become as popular as one of our great established beers.”
Though Redhook has released its fair share of limited draft beers over the years, it looks like the brewery is formally re-introducing the Blueline Series and has a new line to go with it called the Backyard Series. The first in the Series to be approved are a Dunkelweizen and Red Lager.
[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!]
(WOODINVILLE, WA) – Redhook Ale Brewery (NASDAQ:HOOK) has partnered with the University of Washington Huskies to become the Dawg’s exclusive craft brewery. The three year partnership kicks off this month.
“Redhook has been pouring craft beers in Western Washington since 1982 and we look forward to cheering the Dawgs on from The Zone.”
“As Seattle’s original craft brewer, we are thrilled to team up with the University of Washington to bring Husky fans a true taste of the Pacific Northwest,” said Greg Deuhs, brewmaster for Redhook Ale Brewery. “Redhook has been pouring craft beers in Western Washington since 1982 and we look forward to cheering the Dawgs on from The Zone.”
Through this partnership, Redhook will be the exclusive craft beer sponsor of The Zone. The Zone is a Washington Huskies’ game day experience that features entertainment, food, beverages and a place for Husky fans to socialize for three hours pre-game, during halftime and post-game. Additionally, The Zone offers custom suite rentals for first-class entertaining.
Redhook Ale Brewery was established in 1981 in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood. The brewery has gone on to be recognized as a craft brewing innovator with distribution throughout the U.S. Maintaining its Pacific Northwest roots, Redhook’s main brewery is located in Woodinville, Wash.
About Redhook Ale Brewery
Redhook Ale Brewery has been at the forefront of the domestic craft brewing segment since the company’s formation in 1981. Redhook brews a variety of craft beer styles, including: Long Hammer IPA, Redhook ESB, Copperhook Ale and seasonal offerings, Mudslinger Spring Ale, Rope Swing Summer Pilsner, Late Harvest Autumn Ale and Winterhook Winter Ale. Redhook beer is brewed in its breweries, one in the Seattle suburb of Woodinville, Wash., and the other in Portsmouth, N.H. Redhook’s specialty beers are available in both draught and bottles and are distributed nationally through a network of wholesale distributors. For more information, visit www.redhook.com.
[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!]
