Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales Invites You to Celebrate #SourBeerDay on Saturday, Sept. 12

SOUR BEER is beer which has an intentionally acidic, tart or sour taste. The most common sour beer styles are Belgian: lambics, gueuze and Flanders red ale. At one time, all beers were sour to some degree. As pure yeast cultures were not available, the starter used from one batch to another usually contained some wild yeast and bacteria. Unlike modern brewing, which is done in a sterile environment to guard against the intrusion of wild yeast, sour beers are made by intentionally allowing wild yeast strains or bacteria into the brew. Traditionally, Belgian brewers allowed wild yeast to enter the brew naturally through the barrels or during the cooling of the wort in a coolship open to the outside air, an unpredictable process that many modern brewers avoid. The most common agents used to intentionally sour beer are Lactobacillus, Brettanomyces and Pediococcus. Another method for achieving a tart flavor is adding fruit during the aging process to spur a secondary fermentation or contribute microbes present on the fruit's skin. Because of the uncertainty involved in using wild yeast, the sour beer brewing process is extremely unpredictable. The beer takes months to ferment and can take years to mature. (Source: Wikipedia)

SOUR BEER DAY was first held in 2013 and is held annually, the 2nd Saturday of September.

The Michigan-based JOLLY PUMPKIN is regarded as the nation’s first and premier all-sour brewery. Under the watchful guidance of master brewer, RON JEFFRIES. Today, Jolly Pumpkin beers are distributed throughout Michigan and 34 other states.

Jeffries began studying and experimenting with brewing in the early 1990s, always with an eye towards opening his own brewery. With a special interest in rustic country ales, he launched his professional brewing career in 1995, and quickly became known as an innovative and respected member of Michigan’s emerging craft beer scene.

Jeffries realized his dream in the summer of 2004 when he and his wife, Laurie, launched Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales in Dexter, Mich., the first brewery focused on and offering an exclusive selection of oak-aged, wild and sour beers in the United States. Together Ron and Laurie Jeffries, with the help of their son Daemon, have grown Jolly Pumpkin into a boutique brand with widespread distribution and global recognition.

"When I first said I'd brew as much sour beer as people would like to drink, I had no idea what I was in for," Jeffries said.

Over the years, Jeffries’ vocation has evolved from brewer, craftsman and artist to most recently, philosopher and visionary of all things beer. His outstanding dedication to the art of brewing has led to international attention and accolades.

An advocate for the simpler life, Jeffries believes in decelerating the hectic tempo of modern life and returning to a slower, more livable pace. He runs the brewery on what he calls “Hawaiian time,” allowing Jolly Pumpkin to maintain traditional small scale production while protecting both the outstanding complexity and simplicity of the beverage.

Jolly Pumpkin is part of NORTHERN UNITED BREWING Co., which also encompasses the Grizzly Peak and North Peak Beer Co. craft beer brands, as well as Nomad Ciders, Civilized Spirits and Bonafide Wines. NUBC’s philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally-sustainable practices. Jolly Pumpkin tasting rooms can be found in Dexter, Ann Arbor, Traverse City and Midtown Detroit.

To request an interview with Ron Jeffries, please contact:

Dianna Stampfler, Publicist: 269-330-4228 | Dianna@PromoteMichigan.com

#SourBeerDay #SourBeer #JollyPumpkin

PHOTOS AND ARTWORK AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales
2319 Bishop Circle East — Dexter, MI 48130 — (734) 426-4962
www.JollyPumpkin.com
www.facebook.com/JollyPumpkin
www.twitter.com/JollyPumpkin

HELP WANTED: Jolly Pumpkin & North Peak Looking to Expand Team Presence Throughout Michigan, Ohio

Business is booming with the Michigan-based Northern United Brewing Company (NUBC)—producers of Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales, North Peak Brewing Company, Grizzly Peak Brewing Company, Nomad Ciders and Civilized Spirits. The Dexter-based company is looking to add several jobs in its sales and operations departments.

“This is an exciting time for all areas of Northern United Brewing Company” says Tony Grant, co-owner for the company. “All our brands continue to grow at a rapid pace, both in terms of what we have available at our pubs but also in the retail marketplace. We’re looking for qualified, passionate and engaging team players who want to help us develop a stronger presence in Michigan and beyond.”

This year, Jolly Pumpkin celebrates its 11th year as the country’s first and premier all-sour brewery, with award-winning products such as La Roja, Bam Biere and Oro de Calabaza, artfully crafted by master brewer Ron Jeffries at a new state-of-the-art facility in Dexter. Jolly Pumpkin pubs also operate in Traverse City, Ann Arbor and the newly opened location downtown Detroit’s Midtown neighborhood.

North Peak was founded in Traverse City in 1997 (with production of bottled beer starting in 2009) and since then has launched more than a dozen unique products, each with ties to Michigan folklore and legend. Grizzly Peak is yet to be introduced into the market in a distributed format, but in 2014 North Peak Brewing Company released its “Grizzly Peak Series” in 12-ounce stubby bottles, and this year the Ann Arbor brew pub celebrates its 20th year.

The Nomad Cider line grew out of the North Peak brand to stand on its own in 2011. Civilized Spirits was formed in 2010 and currently produces a variety of craft liquors including whiskey, vodka, rum, gin and sakura. Both of these brands are crafted on the Old Mission Peninsula in Traverse City.

Complete descriptions for jobs with Northern United Brewing Company can be found online at JollyPumpkin.com.

NUBC encompasses the Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales, North Peak and Grizzly Peak beer brands, Nomad Ciders, Civilized Spirits and Bonafide Wines, all dedicated to conservation, inspiration and locally sustainable practices.

Find NUBC products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: Blue Tractor, North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin and Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor; Jolly Pumpkin Pizzeria & Brewery in Detroit; and Null taproom in Dexter.

Spring Showers Bring New Jolly Pumpkin Sours: Rojzilla & La Roja du Kriek

Jolly Pumpkin’s quintessential beer – La Roja – may be hard to find, but two new specialty brews will hit the marketplace in limited quantities this month and are sure to quench the thirst of sour beer lovers around America. Rojzilla and La Roja du Kriek will be distributed in Michigan and 34 other states during the brand’s “April Showers Bring Jolly Pumpkin Sours” campaign.

La Roja (7.2% ABV | 25 IBU) was the second beer to be released by Jolly Pumpkin, after opening in 2004. This artisan red ale, brewed in the Flanders tradition, is deep amber in color with earthy caramel, spice and sour fruit notes that are developed through natural barrel aging.

Flanders ales are fermented with usual brewer’s yeast in an unfiltered and unpasteurized fashion, then placed into oak barrels to age and mature. The mature beer is then blended with younger beer, to adjust the taste for consistency. The name comes from the usual color of these ales, which are descendent from English porters of the 17th century.

Due to the extensive time involved in the production of La Roja, it is only released in limited quantities and is considered one of the most sought-after sour ales in the country.

Rojzilla – Michigan Sour Biere. Aged for a year-and-a-half in a 100-bbl oak foudre before being blended with a few “normal” size barrels of varying ages to create a complex, mellifluous combination of flavors and sophistication. (7.4% ABV | 750ml)

La Roja du Kriek – Sour Amber Ale with Michigan Cherry Juice. This is what happens when 3100 gallons of 2013 La Roja meets 50 gallons of Michigan tart cherry juice, aged in oak barrels and bottle conditioned – a perfect blend of sour and tart joie de vivre! (7.5% ABV | 750ml).



Jolly Pumpkin celebrates its 11th year in 2015, and is regarded as the nation’s first and premier all-sour brewery. Under the watchful guidance of master brewer Ron Jeffries.

Jeffries began studying and experimenting with brewing in the early 1990s, always with an eye towards opening his own brewery. With a special interest in rustic country ales, he launched his professional brewing career in 1995, and quickly became known as an innovative and respected member of Michigan’s emerging craft beer scene.
Jeffries realized his dream in the summer of 2004 when he and his wife, Laurie, launched Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales in Dexter, Mich., the first brewery focused on and offering an exclusive selection of oak-aged, wild and sour beers in the United States. Together Ron and Laurie Jeffries, with the help of their son Daemon, have grown Jolly Pumpkin into a boutique brand with widespread distribution and global recognition.

Over the years, Jeffries’ vocation has evolved from brewer, craftsman and artist to most recently, philosopher and visionary of all things beer. His outstanding dedication to the art of brewing has led to international attention and accolades.

An advocate for the simpler life, Jeffries believes in decelerating the hectic tempo of modern life and returning to a slower, more livable pace. He runs the brewery on what he calls “Hawaiian time,” allowing Jolly Pumpkin to maintain traditional small scale production while protecting both the outstanding complexity and simplicity of the beverage.

RELEASE EVENTS:

A draft and bottle release for Rojzilla and La Roja du Kriek will take place the weekend of June 6-7 at the Null taproom in Dexter, as well as Jolly Pumpkin locations in Ann Arbor, Midtown in Detroit and Traverse City.

Throughout the coming month, special tastings and release parties will be held around the country featuring these two beers as well. All events will be promoted on the Jolly Pumpkin Facebook.

Jolly Pumpkin is part of Northern United Brewing Co., which also encompasses the Grizzly Peak and North Peak Beer Co. craft beer brands, as well as Nomad Ciders, Civilized Spirits and Bonafide Wines. NUBC’s philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally-sustainable practices.

Find NUBCo products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin and Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor.

Old Mission Beer Co. Releases Jubilance Holiday Ale – A Collaboration Brew Handcrafted with Traverse City-made Press On Juice

Old Mission Beer Co.,the in-house beer brand offered exclusively at Jolly Pumpkin - Old Mission Peninsula, announces its inaugural collaboration brew: Jubilance Holiday Ale—a special seasonal brew crafted with locally-produced Press On Juice.

A release party will start at 5:30pm on Wednesday, November 26 at Jolly Pumpkin on Old Mission Peninsula—the noted “biggest bar night of the year.” Brewer Mike Wooster and Press On Juice Founder Kris Rockwood will both be on hand from 5:30-7:30pm hosting a Q&A about the beer and its creation.

Brewed with local Crystal and Zeus hops, Jubilance comes in at 7% ABV and 40 IBUs.

“The specialty grains lend a candied sugar presence, while giving the beer a burgundy color that are sharpened by the color of the cranberry, orange, apple and ginger juices,” says assistant brewer Mike Wooster. “The blend of barley, wheat and rye are complimented with ginger juice, while the fermented fructose from cranberry give it a tart, boozy finish.”

Press On Juice was founded in 2013 by Traverse City native Kris Rockwood, as a lifestyle change following a diagnosis of immobilizing rheumatoid arthritis. Each of her 30 or so juice recipes are created using a multi-step production process. She starts with grinding at least two pounds of raw, organic fruits and vegetables into a fine pulp that is then placed in a linen bag and slowly squeezed on a hydraulic press to maximize extraction of the juice and its nutritional enzymes. Each cold-press bottle of delicious Press On Juice is all natural, loaded with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and living enzymes which provide health-conscious customers beverages that aid in weight loss, nutrition and disease prevention.

“I am so excited to be collaborating with Old Mission Beer to create this superior brew with our two companies. We are looking forward to Wednesday night getting to see people’s reaction to this fun combination! It’s going to be a great drink for the holiday season,” says Kris.

Old Mission Beer Co. IS the in-house beer brand offered exclusively at Jolly Pumpkin-Old Mission Peninsula. Jolly Pumpkin is part of Northern United Brewing Co., which also encompasses the Grizzly Peak and North Peak Beer Co. craft beer brands, as well as Civilized Spirits and Bonafide Wines. NUBC’s philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally-sustainable practices.

Old Mission Beer Co. at Jolly Pumpkin Brewery-Old Mission Peninsula
13512 Peninsula Drive
Traverse City, MI 49686
(231) 223-4222
www.oldmissionbeerco.com

Jolly Pumpkin to Open Midtown Detroit Location

Jolly Pumpkin has announced it will be opening a location in Midtown Detroit in early 2015. The 5000-square-foot space at 441 Canfield will serve all the craft beers, distilled spirits and wines available through the Northern United Brewing Company brand – including North Peak Beer, Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales, Civilized Spirits and Bonafide Wines, as well as an eclectic pub fare menu.

“We are very excited to be opening Jolly Pumpkin Detroit and becoming part of this incredible neighborhood. Many have helped us develop this project and we are grateful for their support,” says Tony Grant, partner with Ron Jeffries at Northern United Brewing Company. “Sue Mosey at Midtown has been instrumental, as have Invest Detroit and Comerica Bank.”

“Midtown Detroit, Inc. is thrilled to welcome Jolly Pumpkin into the neighborhood,” says Executive Director Sue Mosey. “Their investment and strong brand will draw in more people to Midtown’s burgeoning retail and restaurant district. Their future location, in the historic Willys Complex, compliments other strong businesses such as Shinola, Willys Detroit, RUNdetroit and the Fellow Barber, creating a walkable block of quality commercial storefronts.”

"We are so excited to come to Midtown Detroit,” says Jeffries. “We look forward to being part of this vibrant beer neighborhood.’”

As with all its locations, Jolly Pumpkin will be working with local suppliers in developing its menu, specifically partnering with Avalon Bakery, McClures Pickles and Calder Dairy. Jolly Pumpkin Detroit menu will offer eclectic pub fare, featuring Jolly Pumpkin pizza, truffle fries along with the full tap house and tasting room beverages of all the Northern United Brewing brands.

Jolly Pumpkin is part of Northern United Brewing Co., which also encompasses the Grizzly Peak and North Peak Beer Co. craft beer brands, as well as Civilized Spirits and Bonafide Wines. NUBC’s philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally-sustainable practices.

Find NUBCo products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin and Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor.

“null” Grand Opening Set for Fri Sept 5 in Dexter

Taphouse to Showcase Northern United Brewing’s Beer, Wine, Cider & Spirits Brands - next to Jolly Pumpkin Production Brewery

The long-anticipated opening of the null Café & Taphouse at Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales production brewery is just around the corner. Executives at Northern United Brewing Company have announced Friday, September 5 at 7pm as the Grand Opening at 2319 Bishop Circle East in Dexter.

"This tasting room has been in the works for decades,” says Ron Jeffries, Jolly Pumpkin co-founder, co-owner and Brewmaster. “We’ve always wanted to have a great place for people to enjoy the beers that we brew on-site and we’re excited to unveil this new space which will allow us to do just that.”

Designed and built using all recycled or reclaimed materials, null (which stands for “Northern United Liquid Libations”) is intended be a warm haven and comfortable environment within the 70,000-square-foot production brewery building. The taphouse will proudly feature products from Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales, North Peak Brewing Co., Civilized Spirits, Old Mission Spirits, Nomad Cidery and Bonafide Wines.

NUBCo encompasses the Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales, North Peak and Grizzly Peak beer brands, Civilized Spirits and Bonafide Wines, all dedicated to conservation, inspiration and locally sustainable practices. Find NUBC products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin and Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor; and null Café & Taproom in Dexter.

(nl) null Café & Taphouse @ Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales - Dexter
www.nullcafe.com
www.facebook.com/null.dexter

Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales Earns Gold & Silver Medals at LA International Beer Competition

Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales earned two medals at the Los Angeles International Beer Competition earlier this summer in California. The Dexter, Michigan-based craft brewery received a Gold Medal in the American Style Brett Ale category for its Oro de Calabaza and a Silver Medal in the American Style Sour Ale division for its La Roja.

Oro de Calabaza (8% ABV) is brewed in the Franco-Belgian tradition of strong golden ales. It is spicy and peppery, with a gentle hop bouquet and the beguiling influence of wild yeast.

La Roja (7.2% ABV) is an artisan amber ale brewed in the Flanders tradition. A deep amber in color, it offers earthy caramel, spice and sour fruit notes that are developed through the natural barrel aging. It is unfiltered, unpasteurized and blended from barrels ranging in age from two to ten months.

Both are available in year-round production, on draft and in new 375ml bottles (along with the original 750ml bottles).

The Jolly Pumpkin is part of Northern United Brewing Co., which also encompasses the Grizzly Peak and North Peak Beer Co. craft beer brands, as well as Civilized Spirits and Bonafide Wines. NUBC’s philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally-sustainable practices.

Find NUBCo products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin and Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor.

Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales
2319 Bishop Circle East — Dexter, MI 48130 — (734) 426-4962
www.JollyPumpkin.com
www.facebook.com/JollyPumpkin
www.twitter.com/JollyPumpkin

Northern United Brewing Company Hires Matthew Prater as Director of Sales for Jolly Pumpkin, North Peak & Grizzly Peak Beer Brands

Matthew Prater has been named Director of Sales for Northern United Brewing Company (NUBC) – representing the Jolly Pumpkin, North Peak and Grizzly Peak beer brands.

“We couldn’t be more excited to add Matt to the NUBC team,” says Greg Lobdell, who along with Jon Carlson, Ron Jeffries and Tony Grant, are the managing partners of the company. “Having known him for the past six years, we are extremely fortunate to have him on board. Not only are we confident in his knowledge, professionalism and ability to execute, but we have always been even more impressed with him as a genuinely great person. We are happy that Matt will be working with our distribution partners to provide even better service to everyone who carries or wants to carry our beers.”

Matt began his beer career in 1998 as a summer merchandiser at Central Distributors of Beer in Romulus, Michigan. His love for the industry and understanding of the distributor network has spanned 16 years, including more than a dozen years working with two different Michigan distributors. He has worked the past three years at MillerCoors, serving as Distributor Sales Manager in central Illinois and most recently as a Chain Account Executive responsible for Indiana, Kentucky, and Michigan.

“This is an amazing opportunity for me to join and lead the sales efforts of an emerging brewing company,” Matt says. “Northern United Brewing has all of the intangibles that you need to succeed. Great brewers, a great brewery, a great distributor network, and lots of customers around the country that love to enjoy Michigan beers. When our sales efforts and strategies match our brewing knowledge, our distributor partners will have a lot to be excited about, and that’s what’s most exciting for me in joining this team.”

Matt will be heading up all sales initiatives for the NUBCo, with a primary focus starting on retail beer distribution. With his presence on the team, the company will be much more strategic in its approach to working with wholesale and on / off-premise partners.

“This is a huge step for Northern United as Matt is bringing us a wealth of experience and rigor in the sales area,” according to Tony Grant, CFO/COO. “Matt’s main goal will be to bring a stable sales approach to our distributor network while providing sales tools to maximize revenue.”

Matt has a wife, Carrie, will relocate from Indianapolis to Dexter with their two sons, Camron and Ethan.

NUBC encompasses the Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales, North Peak and Grizzly Peak beer brands, Civilized and Old Mission Spirits and Bonafide Wines, all dedicated to conservation, inspiration and locally sustainable practices. Find NUBC products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin and Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor.

www.NUBCo.net

www.JollyPumpkin.com
www.NorthPeakBeer.com
www.GrizzlyPeak.net

“null” Café & Taphouse to Showcase Northern United Brewing Company Brands

Construction is set to begin in January, 2014 on the null Café & Taphouse – honoring the various brands of Northern United Brewing Company (null stands for “Northern United Liquid Libations”). It will showcase the company’s award-winning beer, wine, cider and spirits and will be located at the new brewing facility at 2319 Bishop Circle East in Dexter.

“This tasting room has been in the back of Ron’s mind since he brewed his first Jolly Pumpkin beer and it is finally coming to fruition,” says Tony Grant, Northern United CFO/COO. “It is such an exciting time for Jolly Pumpkin, North Peak and the entire company to have this showplace for all our brands. We are so excited for everyone to come out and see our new home, taste all the products, take tours of the plant and see all the new gear that we've been working on.”

So…yes…it’s true, Jolly Pumpkin is finally going to build a taproom in Dexter. Loyal fans have helped the company grow over the years; they’ve spread the word on the brand’s award-winning wares and now they have an opportunity to help build the null Café & Taphouse.

Anyone can be part of this exciting taphouse by joining one of four club levels – from the “I Believe They WILL Build It Club” which includes a permanent name plaque on a bar stool at the taphouse; the “Just Another Booth Club,” which places a similar name plaque on a booth tabletop; the “I Drink from a Kick Ass Glass Club” which includes a personalized goblet; the “Old & Busted Club” which includes limited edition growlers; the “Writing’s on the Wall Club,” where members names are scrawled along a wall at the taphouse; and the “All I Get is a T-Shirt Club” – which includes a logoed t-shirt. Membership in these various clubs range from $50 to $1500.* For more information on each club, or to purchase a membership, visit nulltaphouse.com.

Drawing from the nearly 60 years of combined beverage crafting experience of master brewers Ron Jeffries, John Walsh and Mike Hall the libations of Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales and North Peak Brewing Company, as well as the Civilized Spirits, Old Mission Spirits, Nomad Ciders and Bonafide Wines resonate with casual drinkers and die-hard aficionados alike. null café and taphouse will be a unique and exciting environment in which they can all be enjoyed!

Keep up on the progress of null Café & Taphouse or to become a founding club member, at facebook.com/null.dexter.

“Summertime on Old Mission” means Fresh Water, Stand-Up Paddleboarding and Jolly Pumpkin

There’s something about getting out on the waters of Northern Michigan – a ritual, a tradition, a culture, a passion, a lifestyle! “Summertime on Old Mission” – the third in a 3-video collaborative series* from Northern United Brewing Company (NUBC) – focuses on the popular activity of stand up paddleboarding (SUP), on the clear waters of Grand Traverse Bay.

Filmmaker Evan Joling has teamed up once again with Michigan artist/singer/songwriter Jetty Rae for this soothing 1:44-minute video highlighting a group of paddleboarders enjoying a leisurely afternoon on the water. You can view the video online here.

“Ron and Laurie Jeffries of Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales have been avid paddleboarders before the sport even made it to the mainland,” says Jon Carlson, who along with Ron Jeffries, Greg Lobdell and Mike Hall is a managing partner of NUBC. “From their trips to Hawaii for beer festivals and amazing collaborative beer initiatives, they fell in love with this graceful sport. Paddleboarding is now extremely popular on the Great Lakes and nothing is more relaxing than heading out on the waters at Bowers Harbor, either before or after visiting Jolly Pumpkin.”

When he’s not actively brewing his award-winning Belgian-style beers, Ron Jeffries has been known to craft custom paddleboards – which he and Laurie use on those rare occasions when they’re able to escape the brewery for some well-deserved quiet time.

Several local outfitters in the Traverse City area offer SUP rentals, for those who don’t have their own equipment. Many often deliver for free. Other companies offer group excursions as well. For a list of such companies, visit TraverseCity.com.

Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales is part of Northern United Brewing Co., which also encompasses the North Peak and Grizzly Peak craft beer brands, as well as the Civilized line of spirits and the Mission Table restaurant on Old Mission Peninsula in Traverse City. NUBC’s philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally sustainable practices. Find NUBC products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin and Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor.

2319 Bishop Circle East
Dexter, MI 48130
(734) 426-4962
www.JollyPumpkin.com
www.facebook.com/JollyPumpkin
www.twitter.com/JollyPumpkin

311 S. Main Street
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
(734) 913-2730
www.JollyPumpkin.com/AnnArbor
www.facebook.com/JollyPumpkinA2
www.twitter.com/JollyPumpkinA2

13512 Peninsula Drive (Old Mission Peninsula)
Traverse City, MI 49696
(231) 223-4333
www.JollyPumpkin.com/TraverseCity
www.facebook.com/JollyPumpkinTC

NORTHERN UNITED BREWING COMPANY VIDEO SERIES:

1. “Summer in Northern Michigan” from filmmaker Evan Joling and featuring singer/songwriter Jetty Rae, M22 and the Broneah Brothers, and North Peak Beer, available for online viewing here.

2. “Farm-to-Table” from filmmaker Evan Joling and featuring music by Michigan singer/songwriter Danny Kline, available for online viewing here.

Northern United Brewing Company Hires John Walsh as Head Brewer

In anticipation of the opening of its new 75,000-square-foot brewery in Dexter, Northern United Brewing Company has hired John Walsh as its new Head Brewer for the Jolly Pumpkin and North Peak brands. Walsh comes to Michigan most recently from Maui Brewing Company in Hawaii. Over his brewing career, Walsh has racked up a more than two dozen awards while crafting beer for Hawai’i Nui Brewing Company, Keoki Brewing Company and Oak Creek Brewing Company.

“The first time I drank a Jolly Pumpkin beer, I knew there was something different about them,” Walsh says of his first introduction more than 10 years ago. “There is literally like nothing else like it on the market. Other breweries make sour beers, but these are different.”

While visiting his home state of Michigan in 2005, Walsh stopped to visit Jolly Pumpkin and meet with owner/brewer Ron Jeffries.

“The thing that struck me about Ron was how humble he was about everything,” Walsh recalls. “He acted as if these amazing beers were just part of a day’s work.”

Walsh said he returned to Arizona, drinking JP beer whenever and wherever he could find them. And, he kept in touch with Jeffries with periodic emails. A few years later, the two reconnected at the Kona Brew Fest in Kailua-Kona, HI. There began discussions about a possible collaboration brew and by 2010, those talks began to take shape.

Walsh was working at Maui Brewing Company when the owner, Garrett Marrerro, asked him for input on who they should partner with for their first ever packaged collaboration beer. When Walsh suggested Jolly Pumpkin, Marrerro (a fan of JP and a friend of Jeffries’) gave the green light.

“He told me I had no boundaries or limits, cost restrictions or anything for the beer – just make something great,” says Walsh. “The next day while at a West Maui Beach, I texted Ron and asked him if he was really up for it – he was, so we began working on the recipe and tossing ideas back and forth.”

The two brewers worked together to come up with the recipe, while visiting each other’s brewing facilities. They then used their own brewing styles to create two distinct versions of the beer. Maui Brewing used standard fermentation while the Jolly Pumpkin version was an open-fermented, barrel aged and bottle conditioned sour ale, using naturally occurring wild yeasts. The brew, Sobrehumano Palena 'Ole, is a red ale, brewed with liliko'i (passion fruit) and Michigan cherries. The beer was promoted and released and received very positive reviews, winning a medal at the 2011 US Beer Open.

“I’m excited to join Ron in his efforts to expand both the Jolly Pumpkin and North Peak Brands,” says Walsh. “The new facility offers a lot of opportunities and possibilities.”

“John is a great brewer, and over the last few years has become a great friend,” says Ron. “Needless to say, our entire staff is super excited to have him join our family. Adventure awaits!”

NUBC encompasses the Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales, North Peak and Grizzly Peak beer brands, Civilized Spirits and Bonafide Wines, all dedicated to conservation, inspiration and locally sustainable practices. Find NUBC products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin and Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor.

Jolly Pumpkin’s De Viento Brew to Benefit Dexter Relief Fund and Victims of Spring Tornadoes

On March 15, 2012, a devastating tornado touched down in the small southeastern community of Dexter, Michigan – the hometown of one of the nation’s most noted craft breweries: Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales. While the brewery itself was not damaged in the storm, the compassionate owners and staff felt the immediate need to help out their neighbors who were affected by doing what they do best – make beer.

“Teaming up with co-conspirators Great Lakes Coffee Roasting Company, Schera’s Algerian Restaurant and The Abu Nawas Beverage Company, we’ve come up with a beer like none other,” says Brewer Ron Jeffries.

This dark and smoky-sour Saison is full of rich aromatic coffee and the spicy heat of Algerian spices – like grains of paradise, cinnamon, coriander and saffron – aged in oak barrels. Named “De Viento” – which in Spanish means “wind” – this beer is affectionately called “Tornado Relief Beer” by those at the brewery.

100% of the proceeds from the sale of this beer will be donated to the Dexter Area Tornado Relief Fund.

Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales is dedicated to more than the traditions of old world craftsmanship. Everything they do is designed to create ales of outstanding art and flavor. Focusing on traditional rustic country style beers brought to life through labor and love, Jolly Pumpkin strives to create beers to lighten the spirit and soothe the soul

The Jolly Pumpkin is part of Northern United Brewing Co., which also encompasses the Grizzly Peak and North Peak Beer Co. craft beer brands, as well as Civilized Spirits and Bonafide Wine. NUBC’s philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally sustainable practices. All of the beers and spirits under these brands are produced at either the 5600-square-foot facility on Old Mission Peninsula adjacent to Mission Table restaurant (former Bowers Harbor Inn) or at the original Jolly Pumpkin brewing facility in Dexter.

Find NUBC products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin and Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor.

Jolly Pumpkin Brewing Company

Big Changes Ahead for Michigan-Based Northern United Brewing Company

Big changes are underway at Northern United Brewing Company (NUBC) – the maker of Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales, North Peak and Grizzly Peak beers, Civilized Spirits and Bonafide Wines, and operator of Jolly Pumpkin Cafes in Ann Arbor and Traverse City as well as Old Mission Table Restaurant in Traverse City.



NEW BREWERY OPERATIONS

Yet this year, Northern United Brewing Company will open a new 70,000-square-foot brewing facility in Dexter, where Ron Jeffries will oversee all brewing operations for both the Jolly Pumpkin and North Peak beer brands. The new site allows for expansion of up to 150,000-square feet in the future.

“I've always said I’ll brew as much sour beer as folks want to drink. Whoever would have guessed it would be more than we can possibly brew at our existing facility,” says Ron Jeffries. “I’m very excited to be making the 1.5 mile move to our new plant. More sour beer can only be a good thing! And did I mention IPAs? Taking over the brewing of the North Peak line with those fantastic hoppy beers – are you kidding me, it’s a(nother) dream come true!”

The move means that NUBC’s 5600-square-foot facility on the Old Mission Peninsula in Traverse City will be dedicated to the production of Civilized Spirits and North Peak’s Nomad Hard Cider, under the auspices of Mike Hall.

“We’re excited for the North Peak and Jolly Pumpkin brands to have a new home to continue to meet our growing demand. This will allow us to focus on our micro distillery, and expand our production of Civilized Spirits,” says Mike. “We will continue to create the highest quality craft spirits, and we are also looking forward to knocking out some exclusive experimental brews at the JP pub.”

NEW MANAGEMENT STAFF

NUBC has also announced the hiring of Tony Grant as the company’s chief financial and chief operating officer, effective July 1. His primary focus is working with the executive team to develop the near and long-term strategies for the company.

“The shift taking place in our industry is amazing and the brands of Northern United Brewing Company are on the forefront of what makes craft creations so special,” Tony says. “This is a dream job with an incredible group of talented people as the dream team and I feel very lucky to be a part of it. The future is full of opportunity!”

Tony has more than 10 years of Fortune 500 experience in strategic finance, operations and executive management in retail, commercial and industrial real estate and manufacturing operations. Most recently, he served as director of corporate development with Owens Corning where he focused on all aspects of global acquisition and divestiture activity and various strategic projects for the company.

Prior to Owens Corning, he served as an executive officer and vice president of strategic planning, real estate and international franchise operations for Borders Group – where he also managed various asset dispositions and worked very closely with major shareholders and the company’s board of directors. Tony was also the architect of and managed Borders very successful airport bookstore expansion across the U.S. earlier in his career with the company.

Tony received both his MBA and electrical engineering degrees from Michigan State University, where he also played varsity football under Nick Saban and Bobby Williams.

“We are extremely excited to add a person of Tony’s caliber to our executive management team,” according to Jon Carlson and Greg Lobdell, who along with Ron Jeffries and Mike Hall are managing partners of NUBC. “His experience along with his tremendous work ethic and ability to lead will allow NUBC to continue on the path of growth that we have been experiencing and allow the company to reach its full potential.”

NUBC’s philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally sustainable practices. Find NUBC products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin and Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor.

Jolly Pumpkin Takes to Hawaiian Islands for Latest Collaborative Beer: Sobrehumano Palena 'Ole

Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales has released its latest collaboration beer – Sobrehumano Palena 'Olo – a red ale brewed with liliko'i and Michigan cherries – brewed with Maui Brewing Company. Brewers Ron Jeffries (Jolly Pumpkin) and John Walsh (Maui Brewing) spent time in each other’s breweries earlier this year to craft this ale. Both versions of Sobrehumano Palena 'Ole were introduced at SAVOR, an annual craft beer and food exposition, held in Washington DC each June.

Maui Brewing Company used standard fermentation to produce approximately 4000 cases of cans and 80 barrels in draft for its version. This is the brewery’s first collaboration beer.

The Jolly Pumpkin version is an open-fermented, barrel aged and bottle conditioned sour ale, using naturally occurring wild yeasts. Approximately 850 cases of 750ml bottles and 20 draft barrels have been produced by Jolly Pumpkin. This brew is available in draft and bottles, with special glassware, at the Jolly Pumpkin Pub and Cafe in Downtown Ann Arbor. It has also just launched nationally and will be shipped to Michigan wholesalers in immediate future. It will also be available for sampling at the 15th Annual Michigan Summer Beer Festival, July 27-28, in Ypsilanti.

Maui Brewing Company has built a reputation for creating handcrafted beers brewed using their finest natural ingredients. Founded in 2005, Maui Brewing is one of Hawaii’s fastest growing companies and the island’s only microbrewery. All beers from Maui Brewing are packaged in cans, which can be recycled and aid in sustainining the state’s vibrant tourism industry.

Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales is dedicated to more than the traditions of old world craftsmanship. Everything they do is designed to create ales of outstanding art and flavor. Focusing on traditional rustic country style beers brought to life through labor and love, Jolly Pumpkin strives to create beers to lighten the spirit and soothe the soul

The Jolly Pumpkin is part of Northern United Brewing Co., which also encompasses the Grizzly Peak and North Peak Beer Co. craft beer brands, as well as Civilized Spirits and Bonafide Wine. NUBC’s philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally sustainable practices. All of the beers and spirits under these brands are produced at either the 5600-square-foot facility on Old Mission Peninsula adjacent to Mission Table restaurant (former Bowers Harbor Inn) or at the original Jolly Pumpkin brewing facility in Dexter.

Find NUBC products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin and Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor.

Mission Table opens The Tasting Room on Old Mission Peninsula

The Tasting Room showcases their artisan-crafted Civilized Spirits, Bonafide Wines, Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales and North Peak Beers.
The Tasting Room is the latest addition to this historic Old Mission Peninsula landmark, which is home to Mission Table Restaurant, The Peninsula Room, and Jolly Pumpkin Restaurant & Brewery. The new Tasting Room is the only location on the peninsula to pour distilled spirits, handcrafted beers and locally produced wines.

“It is so exciting for us to be able to offer tastings of our Civilized Spirits, Jolly Pumpkin and North Peak beers, and Bonafide Wines in this beautiful new space,” says Chef Paul Olson, Managing Partner. “Alongside our restaurants, The Tasting Room really gives us the opportunity to showcase our dedication to small batch artisan distilling and brewing. Equally important to showing off the end result of that small batch craft is our commitment to using as many local ingredients in all our products and menus whenever they are available.”

The 2300-square-foot space encompasses the Mission Table bar and two smaller dining rooms off the bar. The Tasting Room decor reflects the rustic overtones of their artisan beverages, with whiskey barrels, cherry lugs, wine staves and a fantastic view of West Bay. A community table doubles as a tasting space and a private Chef’s table for dining. All spirits, beers and wines are available for retail purchase by the bottle or case, along with logo’d apparel, glassware, clothing and locally produced jams and salsas. For anyone touring the area, The Tasting Room is a wonderful addition for those seeking to discover the many wonders of Old Mission Peninsula.

Spirit, Beer and Wine Tasting: Open Daily 11am - 9 pm
A $5 tasting fee includes: five samples in any combination of spirits, beers or wines. The tasting fee can then be used as a credit toward the retail purchase of spirits, beers and wines. As Mission Table opens for dinner at 5:00, The Tasting Room becomes a great space to lounge or to enjoy a private dinner at the Chef’s table.

The company's philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally sustainable practices. Their products are available in stores, restaurants and bars all throughout Michigan.

The Tasting Room at Mission Table:
231.223.4222 • missiontable.net
13512 Peninsula Drive (Old Mission Peninsula)
Traverse City, Michigan 49686

About Mission Table, Jolly Pumpkin and The Peninsula Room: Formerly known as Bowers Harbor Inn
Fulfilling a long-lasting heritage dating back to the late 1800s, the Bowers estate is dedicated to the preservation of the land and the sustainable use of local products in the creation of their food and beverages.

After years as one of the Midwest’s most respected fine dining destinations, Bowers Harbor Inn was purchased in 2006 by Jon Carlson and Greg Lobdell, two natives of Old Mission Peninsula. From the outset, their intention was to protect the Inn, and after years of hard work, the estate is now preserved in perpetuity. The Carlson and Lobdell families worked closely with the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy and the Michigan Historic Preservation Network to donate the development rights on the property and placed a conservation easement that protects its historic, scenic and shoreline characteristics.


THE TASTING ROOM AT MISSION TABLE PHOTOS

Jolly Pumpkin to Host Beer Dinner at Award-Winning The Root Restaurant in White Lake

To celebrate the end of the winter season, Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales is hosting a five-course Beer Dinner on Tuesday, March 20 at The Root Restaurant in White Lake. Cost for the dinner is $70 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Space is limited to 100 and reservations are required by calling 248-698-2400.

Located at 340 Town Center Blvd. in White Lake, Root is a locally-owned and operated restaurant, focused on regional, seasonal cuisine that showcases the many resources that Michigan and the Great Lakes region has to offer. Earlier this year, The Detroit Free Press named Root its “Restaurant of the Year.” The farm-to-table philosophy of the culinary team at Root mirrors the down-to-earth mentality of those at Jolly Pumpkin, making this dinner the perfect expression of food and beer pairings.

The menu for this dinner includes:

Course 1
Curried Cauliflower Bisque. Toasted Almond. Pickled Raisin.

Bam Biere: An artisan farmhouse ale that is golden, naturally cloudy, bottle conditioned and dry hopped for a perfectly refreshing balance of spicy malts, hops and yeast. (4.5% ABV)

Course 2
Ancho & Michigan Honey Grilled Michigan Shrimp. Amish White Cheddar Grits. Pickled Corn.

Oro de Calabaza: Brewed in the Franco-Belgian tradition of strong golden ales. Spicy and peppery with a gentle hop bouquet and the beguiling influence of wild yeast. (8% ABV) **Named LA Times “Beer of the Month” for February 2012.

Course 3
Grilled House Made Michigan Pork Kielbasa. House Made Sauerkraut. Caraway Mustard.

Fuego del Otono: To catch a bit of soft radiance in each bottle, we wait for fall colors to begin their bright and fleeting glow before brewing this wonderful ale under their autumn fire. Gentle amber malt blend smooth caramel notes, gently lapping against a shore of distant forgotten spice. A beer to sip, contemplate and enjoy. (6.15 ABV)

Intermezzo

Whaleback White Ale & Orange Peel Sorbet. Sweet Coriander Dust.

Course 4
Roasted Grass Fed Michigan Beef Strip Loin. Saga Bleu Cheese Glacage. Roasted Garlic Crushed Baby Potatoes. Brocollini.

La Roja: An artisan amber ale brewed in the Flanders tradition. Deep amber with earthy caramel, spice, and sour fruit notes developed through natural barrel aging. Unfiltered, unpasteurized and blended from barrels ranging in age from two to ten months. (7.2% ABV)

Course 5
House Made Carrot Cake. Creme Fraiche Icing. Ginger Syrup.

Maricaibo: A rich brown ale inspired by the enigmatic monastic brews of Belgium, and the mysterious mist shrouded jungles of the tropics. Brewed with real cacao, and spiced with cinnamon and sweet orange peel for a sensual delight. A brew to be sipped, savored, and enjoyed! (7.5 ABV)

The Jolly Pumpkin is part of Northern United Brewing Co., which also encompasses the Grizzly Peak and North Peak Beer Co. craft beer brands, as well as Civilized Spirits and Bonafide Wines. NUBC’s philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally-sustainable practices. All of the beers and spirits under these brands are produced at the original Jolly Pumpkin brewing facility in Dexter or at the 5600-square-foot facility on Old Mission Peninsula adjacent to Mission Table restaurant (former Bowers Harbor Inn).

Find NUBC products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin and Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor.

Jolly Pumpkin & North Peak Beers and Mission Table Chef Paul Olson Featured at Salt of the Earth March 14 "Earth Mission" Dinner

It’s a match made in culinary heaven – as Salt of the Earth Chef Matthew Pietsch teams up with Chef Paul Olson of Mission Table restaurant on Old Mission Peninsula, Traverse City, for the third dinner in the Michigan Beer & Wine Series.

“We are proud and excited to get these kindred spirits collaborating in the SotE kitchen,” says owner Mark Schrock. “Mission Table and SotE share core values of presenting the best of fresh and local ingredients. Paired with the best of Jolly Pumpkin and North Peak beers, this dinner is going to be out of this world.”

This six-course dinner will be held on Wednesday, March 12 at 7pm. The cost is $50 per person, plus tax & gratuity. Space is limited and reservations are required by calling 269-561-SALT (7258).

“The joy of putting this food together lies in our ability to cook together and cook in the moment,” says Chef Matt, who opens up his kitchen each month to host a guest chef for this popular Michigan series.

“People feed themselves in this country, but often overlook that eating is most enjoyed as an event,” says Chef Paul, who along with Charles Psenka, Chief Liaison for Northern United Brewing Company (the parent company for Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales and North Peak Brewing Company) will be making the trek downstate to share their culinary expertise.

The “Earth Mission” menu includes:

First Course
Pretzel - Mustard - Watercress - Honey - Sea Salt paired with North Peak Vicious

Second Course
Roasted Prawn - Fresh Sausage - Fresh Yeast Dough - Haloumi paired with Jolly Pumpkin Oro de Calabaza

Third Course
Aged House Made Smoked Ham - Gruyere - Dijon - Poppy Seed paired with North Peak Siren Amber Ale

Fourth Course
Raviola - Local Cheese - Egg Yolk - Pancetta paired with Jolly Pumpkin Fuego

Fifth Course
Leg of Lamb - Anson Mills Polenta - Stewed Fruit paired with Jolly Pumpkin La Roja

Sixth Course
Cherry - Batter - Milk Chocolate - Dark Chocolate - Black Pepper paired with North Peak Darkangel

ABOUT THE PLAYERS:
North Peak & Jolly Pumpkin: Northern United Brewing Co. encompasses the North Peak, Grizzly Peak and Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales craft beer brands, as well as the Civilized line of spirits. NUBC’s philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally sustainable practices. All of the beers and spirits under these brands are produced at either the new 5600-square-foot facility on Old Mission Peninsula adjacent to Mission Table (former Bowers Harbor Inn) restaurant or at the original Jolly Pumpkin facility in Dexter. North Peak beers are born out of Northern lore and are brewed on the Old Mission Peninsula, incorporating locally-grown hops. Jolly Pumpkin focuses on traditional rustic country-style beers brought to life through labor and love, brewed in the traditions of old world craftsmanship. www.northpeak.net www.jollypumpkin.com

Chef Paul Olson – Mission Table Restaurant: From culinary direction, food preparation and sourcing to architectural design, hours, and staffing, Chef Paul is the guiding light. Shaping all his decisions is a mission to have the shortest distance between the food source and the table, which means he will always use local ingredients first. He brings along his philosophy of fresh flavors, local ingredients and superbly executed dishes to Mission Table & Tasting Room and Jolly Pumpkin Restaurant, Microbrewery & Distillery. A Michigan native and graduate of both Michigan State University and the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY, Chef Paul honed his skills under the tutelage of Chef Fredreric Perrier at La Cite, La Boheme and Café Luxembourg in Manhattan, where he discovered a passion for classic bistro cuisine. He served as executive chef at Luna in Mount Kisco, NY, a position that resulted in a partnership that allowed him to open five restaurants. Chef Paul has crafted dishes for such notable events as A Tribute to Billy Joel in 1990, the James Beard Foundation Dinner in 1991, and the Aspen Food & Wine Classic in 1995. www.missiontable.net

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 weekly. Winter Hours: Dinner served Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday 5-9pm, Friday & Saturday 5-10pm. Fresh baked artisan bread is available at the restaurant during dining hours and at select local retail outlets.

What others are saying about the SotE Michigan Series:

“ Salt of the Earth has done so much with their Michigan wine dinner series, to raise awareness of the quality revolution taking place in Michigan's wine industry, that they deserve an award – if one existed,” says Jim Lester, owner of Wyncroft Winery and a three-time series participant.

“We have always enjoyed the food at Salt of the Earth, but, the wine and beer dinners really elevate their take on local cuisine to new heights,” says Brian Cain – Grand Rapids Magazine wine columnist. “The braised brisket served at the Short’s beer dinner is the best I have ever eaten!”

“My wife and I have attended three of the dinners…great food, great wines, lots of friendly folks to meet,” says Bill Koski, manger at Rose’s on Reeds Lake and coordinator of the “Wine School” at the Gilmore Collection in Grand Rapids.

2012 SotE Michigan Wine & Beer Series Schedule
Wednesday April 18
“West Mi WOMP Wine Dinner”
Seven Old Mission wineries, seven courses!
$65 per person, plus tax & gratuity

Wednesday May 16
“Founders Brew and ‘Cue Beer Dinner”
$50 per person, plus tax & gratuity

Wednesday June 20
“Wyncroft Summer Wine Dinner”
$85 per person, plus tax & gratuity

Salt of the Earth
114 East Main Street
Fennville MI 49408
269.561.SALT (7258)
www.saltoftheearthfennville.com
www.facebook.com/saltoftheearthfennville

MBG Presents Inaugural “Tom Burns Award” – Recognizing the Pioneering Spirit of the Great Beer State – to Larry Bell of Bell's Brewery

Larry Bell (left) with former Detroit City Councilwoman Maryann Mahaffey, Sen. Eugene McCarthy, and Tom Burns (right) taken July 11, 1991 at Tiger Stadium by Scott Brooks.

Nearly 200 leaders in the state’s craft brewing industry were present at the Michigan Brewers Guild annual conference which took place at Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire last week, where the inaugural “Tom Burns Award” – recognizing the pioneering spirit of the “Great Beer State” – was presented to Larry Bell of Bell’s Brewery in Galesburg, Michigan.

According to Eric Briggeman, President of the Michigan Brewers Guild, Larry Bell was one of four nominees for the award, the others being Ron Jeffries from Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales, Fred Bueltmann from New Holland Brewing Co., and John Linardos from Motor City Brewing Works.

The award was named after Detroit & Mackinac Brewing Company founder and brewer, Tom Burns, who passed away of cancer May 1, 1994. Burns, a “recovering attorney” whose passion was brewing, is credited with many of the advancements in brewing legislation, rules, and regulations in the 1990s which paved the way for a thriving industry which is currently ranked #5 nationally.

“The nominations were submitted by members of the Guild’s Board of Directors and Government Affairs Committee,” Briggeman stated. “Tom Burns truly was a pioneer for the Michigan brewing industry, and the Guild felt that naming this award after him was a great way to honor Tom as a person, while recognizing his legacy that has been the foundation for the “Great Beer State!’”

Briggeman was joined by Priscilla Burns, Tom’s widow, and Tom Brandel, close friend and founder of Tom’s Oyster Bar, for the presentation.

“Each of the four nominees were qualified candidates for this award,” Briggeman said. “Yet, given the fact that Larry holds the oldest ‘microbrewery’ license in Michigan, and he worked very closely with Tom Burns on shaping our state’s brewing legislation in the early 1990s, we felt he was the clear choice as the recipient of this inaugural award.”

Laura Bell accepted the award on behalf of Larry, who was out of the country and unable to attend. She read this letter sent from Larry, addressed to the group:

“Everyone in this room has been affected by Tom's efforts back in the nineties. His push for, and success at getting brewpub language adopted in the state laws paved the way for what is now one of the most dynamic brewery scenes in the USA. While there may be those today that think that trading away self distribution wasn't right, Tom and I thought we cut a pretty damn good deal, and I still think that.

Tom was able to get legislation enacted because he knew the importance of building consensus, and he knew that it was essential to have dialogue with all of the legislators involved, as well as reaching out openly, and with a eye toward fairness, to Michigan's wholesalers; he respected the realities of the situation while trying to enact change. And enact change he did.

I am glad that we are honoring Tom as I feel that his contributions to the early days of craft brewing are often buried by people who want to take more credit than they deserve. He was one of those people who was there at the dawn of the movement. I have in my collection a bottle of "Legal Lager" that Tom brewed at the Cartwright Brewing Co. in Portland back in the early eighties when, I believe he was in law school. He brewed at the goat shed with Boulder Brewing. And he was in on the start of the then American Homebrewers Association Beer Festival, now the GABF [Great American Beer Festival].

It was heartbreaking to see Tom get sick. Having been through a "mild" cancer myself I have an inkling of the terror it brings to ones soul. But Tom was always upbeat when I saw him and never became morose, even as his diagnosis got worse.

I was very honored to be asked by Priscilla to be the brewer representative pall bearer at Tom's funeral. It was a difficult day for me. To see one's contemporary die too young is a very troubling thing. After the funeral service we went to Tom's Oyster Bar, a place Mr. Burns loved to go, and I stood in for him – singing show tunes with the piano player as a way to pay my respects. Tom loved a good show tune. And a great beer.

Though Tom's life was too short he left an important legacy that we all can honor and that honors us all. I was proud to call him a friend and I am proud of the Guild for honoring him today. So please, let's raise our glass and toast Tom Burns.”

Larry Bell moved to Kalamazoo in 1976 to study history at Kalamazoo College, seven years before opening the homebrew shop that would soon grow into Bell’s Brewery. He opened Bell’s Brewery in 1985, with a 15-gallon soup kettle and $200. Since then, he has grown Bell’s into one of the largest regional craft breweries in the country.

In more than 26 years of brewing, Larry has been actively involved in shaping the craft beer industry in the United States. He was the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Institute for Brewing Studies, sat on the Board of Directors for the Association of Brewer’s, and was the Inaugural President of the Michigan Brewer’s Guild. He currently is active as an Ex-Officio board member of the Beer Institute, as well as a member of the American Malting Barley Association Board of Directors. In 2010, Larry was honored with the Brewer’s Association Recognition Award.

Larry is also an active member in Kalamazoo and has been a board member for the Kalamazoo Brownfield Redevelopment Authority and the Economic Development Corporation of Kalamazoo. He is beginning his first year as a board member for the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. In 2010, Larry was presented with the Distinguished Achievement Award from his Alma Mater, Kalamazoo College.

Larry spends his time between Chicago, Kalamazoo and the Upper Peninsula. He enjoys traveling, the Chicago Cubs, and is an active collector of art, breweriana, and maps, among other things.

ABOUT THE MICHIGAN BREWERS GUILD
Founded in 1997 and celebrating its 15th year, the Michigan Brewers Guild oversees the organization’s administrative and promotional affairs, including four annual public events: Winter Beer Festival in February in Grand Rapids, Summer Beer Festival in July in Ypsilanti, UP Fall Beer Festival in September and Detroit Fall Beer Festival in October, as well as its annual Winter Conference in January. Currently, the Guild represents 89 member breweries – the highest number since the organizations inception.

Michigan’s thriving brewing industry conservatively 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.

Northern United Brewing Company Takes “Civilized Spirits” Statewide - Just in Time for the New Year!

Just in time for the New Year, Northern United Brewing Company delivers two of its Civilized Spirits – Vodka and Sakura – to retail accounts throughout the state. General Wine & Spirits has added Civilized Spirits to its portfolio and spirit-connoisseurs will now be able to seek out these Michigan-made liquors at retails stores, restaurants and bars around the Great Lakes State.

Previously, Civilized Spirits have only been available at Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin restaurants on Old Mission Peninsula, just north of Traverse City. Additional spirits – rum, whiskey and gin – which are currently available exclusively at Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin, will be released state-wide in the coming months.

Civilized Spirits are created in a forest hideaway on the Old Mission Peninsula, a site with a long tradition of distillation. Spirits have been made on the site since the late 1800s when it was built by lumber baron J.W. Stickney and his wife, Genevive. Civilized Spirits is a family of liquors created for the woodland gentleman of yore – the sort of man who cut wood for a living and wrestled grizzlies for fun, but still found time to wax his mustache and comb some pomade through his hair. Although the grizzlies may have gone, the legacy of dedication and appreciation of artisanal spirits lives on in every hand-bottled Civilized Spirit.

Master Distiller Mike Hall is the big gun on Old Mission Peninsula. A native of Nova Scotia, he is ultimately responsible for the sublime list of artisanal Civilized Spirits. A world-renowned distiller, brewer, designer and educator, Hall is also a Senior Member of The European Institute and Guild of Brewing. He has trained more than 100 brewers and distillers during his career and has also designed, built and installed over 60 breweries and distilleries around from as far way as Siberia to the Bahamas, as well as several here in Michigan.

Civilized Spirits are produced through the grand collaboration between Hall and brewer/distiller Ron Jeffries, handcrafted from the fruit of the Northern Michigan landscape. Grapes are picked from vineyards on the property, as well as from throughout Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas; cherries are harvested from the Old Mission Peninsula, while sugar beets are grown in the fertile soils downstate in Eastern Michigan near Saginaw/Bay City. Locally-grown ingredients such as these enable Hall to distill remarkable vodka, sakura, whiskey, gin and rum, with unique character, smoothness and flavor.

“Jon and I grew up on the Old Mission Peninsula,” recalls Greg Lobdell, who – along with Jon Carlson, Ron Jeffries and Mike Hall, are the managing partners of Northern United Brewing Company, in Traverse City – the parent company for Civilized Spirits. “As children, we used to pick buckets of cherries and set up a stand downtown on Front Street and sell them during the Cherry Festival parade. I remember picking cherries for two days and then working all day selling them at the parade. I think we brought home $12 for the three days work and we were the happiest kids in the world. It is only fitting that we are now distilling cherries from the same trees on Old Mission Peninsula, making Sakura, and distributing it throughout the state.”

CIVILIZED SPIRIT DESCRIPTIONS:

VODKA (Percent Alcohol: 40 | Proof: 80) — Smooth as the bay waters at daybreak, subtle as a fleeting wisp of cool summer breeze. Proper manners dictate you put on your good shirt for Civilized Vodka, even though it will always extend you the courtesy of its company, and clean finish. Descended from wine borne of Northern Michigan Riesling vines, this vodka graciously hints at its ingredients with a bouquet of grape and clean finish. And finish it off is what you’ll be tempted to do. Distilled in the ways of the north woods, every bottle of Civilized Vodka has the social graces to complement and enhance the flavors of any cocktail or confidently stand alone. This vodka is as pure as the spring water at its heart and as approachable as the community in which it’s made.

SAKURA (Percent Alcohol: 40 | Proof: 80) — Although the first cherry trees were planted in the 1600, we have Peter Dougherty to thank for making a good thing great. He searched for the perfect combination of rich soil and weather patterns that lend to healthy cherry trees for the best tasting cherries on the planet. He was the first to bring cherry pits to the Old Mission Peninsula in 1852. This cherry vodka is hand-crafted in a custom-built still and with each level of distillation, the purest spirit rains though the 23 caps and trays of the still. The distillation of cherries from Traverse City’s finest orchards is expensive, but it produces a character that is unmatched. The distilled cherries blend well with our distilled vodka and the natural cherry flavor renders it delightfully smooth, with a cherry nose and distinct cherry sweetness. This cherry flavored vodka is perfect for sipping or mixing!

Northern United Brewing Co. encompasses the North Peak, Grizzly Peak and Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales craft beer brands, as well as the Bonafide Wines and Civilized Spirits. NUBC’s philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally-sustainable practices. All of the NUBC beverages are produced at either the 5600-square-foot facility on Old Mission Peninsula adjacent to Mission Table (former Bowers Harbor Inn) restaurant or at the original Jolly Pumpkin facility in Dexter. Find NUBC products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin and Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor.

www.civilizedspirits.com
www.facebook.com/civilizedspirits
www.drinkcivilized.com

Jolly Pumpkin Releases Biere de Mars Grand Reserve April 25

On Monday, April 25, Jolly Pumpkin will release its long-anticipated Biere de Mars Grand Reserve – available in both Ann Arbor and Traverse City starting at 4pm.

The story behind the Sour Flanders ales Biere de Mars and Biere de Mars Grand Reserve is that both are brewed with identical recipes, using two different yeasts. Each is then aged – or mellowed – in different oak barrels for about four months before being reblended back together for bottling. The Grand Reserve, however, is aged for over a year in the barrels before being reblended and bottled – making it even more sour.

Only 20 cases of 330ml bottles of the Grand Reserve will be available, with a limit of two (2) bottles per person which will sell for $10 per bottle. An even more limited number of 750ml bottles will be available, in Ann Arbor only, for $20 per bottle.

The Jolly Pumpkin is part of Northern United Brewing Co., which also encompasses the Grizzly Peak and North Peak Beer Co. craft beer brands, as well as the soon-to-be-released Civilized line of spirits. NUBC’s philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally sustainable practices. All of the beers and spirits under these brands are produced at either the new 5600-square-foot facility on Old Mission Peninsula adjacent to Mission Table restaurant (former Bowers Harbor Inn) or at the original Jolly Pumpkin brewing facility in Dexter.

Find NUBC products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table & Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin & Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor.

Jolly Pumpkin Brewing Company
www.JollyPumpkin.com