Timber Ridge RV Resort – Traverse City Hosts 9th Annual Suds & Snow, Microbrew Party in the Woods (Saturday, March 7)

Timber Ridge RV and Recreation Resort announce the 9th Annual Suds & Snow on this Saturday, March 7, 2015 from 1:30pm to 6:30pm. Suds & Snow is where snowshoes meet microbrews, the ultimate party in the woods. The annual event will be held at Timber Ridge Resort in the back wooded trails. Tickets are on sale now at sudsandsnowtc.com.

Troy Daily, Executive Director of Suds & Snow, is getting excited about the annual event, “My team and I recently took over full operations of the event which has received a ton of community support and a great following in the past, people really love it. We have some really cool ideas planned this year and really making ‘about the experience.’”

Suds & Snow will take place this Saturday, March 7th. Doors will open at 1:30 pm with live music starting shortly after. There will be two stages this year, with alternating sets, sponsored by Drink My Brewcast. Lucas Paul Band will be performing for the first time at Suds & Snow this year. Lucas Paul Band members are Lucas Paul (lead vocals & guitar), Pete Birchler (Lead Guitar, Vocals), Matt Henninger (Bass Guitar), Mike Shea (Drums), and Bobby Streng (Saxophone). All of these musicians are extremely talented who move the crowd with their originals songs and catalog of cover songs that every generation enjoys.

Brady Corcoran & Sweater Party will alternate with Lucas Paul Band. After spending the last five years living and working as a musician and songwriter in Los Angeles, Brady has moved back home to Traverse City and could not be happier about the new lifestyle. Having recently finished his first semester as an instructor for NMC’s Audio Technology program, Brady is very excited to be writing and performing music again. Starting Sweater Party in LA, Brady has written and recorded a wide variety of music, collaborating with a constantly rotating lineup of talented musicians. Here in TC, Brady hopes to bring some of that music to life, performing with talented local musicians and longtime friends.

16 breweries will be present at the event including The Filling Station Microbrewery, Right Brain Brewery, Bravo Zulu Brewing, Jolly Pumpkin, North Peak Brewing, Beggar’s Brewery, Brewery Ferment, Brewery Vivant, Bell’s Brewery, Short’s Brewing, Founder’s Brewing Company, Blackrocks Brewery, Stormcloud Brewing Company, Schmoz and more. For those non-beer drinkers, the event will also feature Tandem Ciders and wine from Bowers Harbor Vineyards.

Attendees will check in at Timber Ridge banquet hall then enjoy a half-mile hike to the backwoods where the event will take place. This annual event is snowshoe friendly, although not required, with a fun trail on the way to the backwoods. We encourage attendees to bring their own snowshoes or there is a limited supply for rent from Timber Ridge Resort. Please call Timber Ridge directly at 231-947-2770 to reserve snowshoes.

KLT will be on-site with their Giant Red Radio. Terri Ray will host fun activities, her infamous Winter Olympics, prize wheel and more! There will be a live on-site broadcast from 1-4pm. Mi Grille will be managing all on-site food service for this years event. There will be three tents with different food selections including Paella, a Pig Roast, and Burger/Brat bar. All food will be purchased with event tokens.

Tickets Information: Event is from 1:30pm - 6:30pm. Tickets are on sale now at sudsandsnowtc.com, Timber Ridge Resort or either of the High Five Threads locations. Tickets are $25 in advance and $35 at the door. Tickets include one drink token good for one pint equivalent. A limited supply of Silipints will also be available for purchase. Additional drink tokens will be sold for $5. $2 of each ticket sold will go to supporting the Vasa Trail. Pointes North is our hotel sponsor and has special hotel packages that all include complimentary shuttle services. More info can be found on our website. Volunteer sign up is now available at sudsandsnowtc.com.

FREE shuttle service is available to and from the event starting at 12:45pm from the Old Town Parking Deck, looping about every 45 minutes. The last shuttle will leave Timber Ridge around 8:00pm. Rare Bird Brewpub will host the official After Party. Find out more information on our website or Rarebirdbrewpub.com.

Michigan Holiday Beers: A Merry Christmas to All, And to All A Good Night!

The holiday season is upon us – and with that comes hand-crafted beers made right here in Michigan. Whether pairing with your meal, warming up after a day in the snow or giving as a gift for someone special on your holiday list, these Christmas brews make the perfect selection.

Arbor Brewing, Ann Arbor

Figjam (11.7% ABV | 35 IBU). Nothing gets you in the holiday spirit quite like this Figjam Quadruple Belgian, with its warming alcohol, figgy undertones, dark dried fruit flavors of raison dates, hints of fresh baked bread, and a beautiful dry finish that leaves you wanting more.

Atwater Brewery, Detroit

Christmas Ale. Like trimming the tree, this beer should be part of every holiday tradition. Imported malts roll richly together to deliver a gift of raisin, caramel and honey flavors. A dash of spice brings forth almond and gingerbread aromas while leaving a clean, bright finish. Forget the cookies, leave this Christmas Ale out for Santa.

Bad Bear Brewing, Albion

Who's Driving the Sleigh?!? (6.5% ABV). A fa-la-la-la-lovely Porter brewed in classic holiday tradition with egg nog spices, real Dutch chocolate and peppermint candy canes. This rich, dark, wintertime offering is sure to leave you feeling all warm and toasty inside!

Beards Brewery, Petoskey

No Ragrets (Not even one letter) (6.4% ABV). An English brown ale spiced with fresh ginger, orange peel, cardamom, clove, and cinnamon. No Ragrets is reminiscent of all of the best Christmas cookies—gingersnap, spice cookie and molasses.

Bell’s Brewery, Kalamazoo

Christmas Ale (5.5% ABV | 33 IBU). The basic inspiration for this brew was to create a sessionable holiday beer, using locally-grown malt, which would stand apart from the array of spiced winter warmers that are typically introduced this time of year. In contrast to many other seasonals, Christmas Ale doesn't contain any spices: all of the dry, toasted notes and subtle toffee flavors come from the 100% Michigan-grown barley, custom malted by Briess Malting, while a blend of hops from Michigan and the Pacific Northwest lend earthy, herbal aromas. This seasonal stands as a smooth, highly drinkable beer intended to complement holiday menus, not overshadow them.

Dark Horse Brewing, Marshall

4 Elf (9% ABV). This spiced winter warmer is brewed with nutmeg, clove, allspice and other holiday flavors.

Dragonmead Microbrewery, Warren

Jul Ol Norwegian Spiced Christmas Ale (5.8% ABV | 26 IBU). This dark, malted beer is available exclusively at Christmas time. In the Norway beer classification this beer is considered a Sterkøl, a beer over 4.75%, so when you enjoy this Christmas beer, think back to some of those that came before it and go 'full Viking' and make your tradition!”

Frankenmuth Brewery, Frankenmuth

Christmas Town Ale (6% ABV | 27 IBU). Toasted dark malts and American hops combine with holiday flavors to create a taste and aroma that is unmistakably Christmas. The hops are delicately balanced with the sweetness of the malts in this medium-bodied brown ale brewed with just the right amount of winter spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to deliver a treat to your nose as it is does to your palate. Christmas Town Ale stands alone as a smooth and flavorful tribute to the town of Frankenmuth and the magic of the season.

Griffin Claw, Birmingham

3 Scrooges Winter Ale (6.5% ABV). Brewed with honey, orange peel and spices, this winter ale is perfect for the season.

Grizzly Peak, Ann Arbor

White Christmas White Ale (7.7% ABV | 30 IBU). ‘Wit’ is a Belgian style wheat beer. Wit actually means white — the milky whitish color coming from the large percentage of wheat used in the mash and fermentation by a special type of brewing yeast. Wits are also traditionally spiced with orange peel and coriander. This version is stronger (minus the coriander) and it has a bit more hop character (American Cascades) for this Hellish holiday season. It starts with a rich spicy and yeasty aroma, followed by a crisp and light citrus hop flavor, with a warming alcohol finish. Available in limited quantities at the pub.

Harmony Brewing, Grand Rapids

Gingerbread Man (6.8% | ABV 37.7 IBU) Using ginger root, nutmeg and cinnamon stick help to celebrate the season with the tradition expected from a gingerbread cookie. A holiday treat in a glass!

Jolly Pumpkin, Dexter / Ann Arbor / Traverse City

Noel de Calabaza (9% ABV | 45 IBU). Deep mahogany and malty, layered hops and hints of fruit and spice like figs, raisins, sugar plums, cashews betwixt rum laden truffles make this the perfect accompaniment for all kinds of good cheer!

Jubilance (7% ABV | 40 IBU). A collaborative brew made with locally-produced Press on Juice and local Crystal and Zeus hops. The specialty grains lend a candied sugar presence, while giving the beer a burgundy color that is sharpened by the color of the cranberry, orange, apple and ginger juices. The blend of barley, wheat and rye are complimented with ginger juice, while the fermented fructose from cranberry gives it a tart, boozy finish. Available exclusively in the Old Mission Peninsula-Traverse City tasting room.

Mountain Town Station, Mount Pleasant

Polar Express (8% ABV | 34 IBU). All aboard! This rich, full bodied stout is brewed with cocoa nibs and fresh-ground locally-roasted coffee from Narrativality Artisan Coffee Roasters.

North Peak Beer, Dexter / Ann Arbor / Traverse City

Blitzen Festivus Ale (6.8% ABV | 55 IBU). The raisin, currant and berry notes are attributed to Bramling Cross hops, three types of crystal malts, cara and chocolate malt, which rounds out the flavors and aromas, with a hint of burnt sugar and chocolate. A combination of citrus peel and citrus pith flavors are accented by Hercules, Cascade and Pilgrim hops added throughout the boil. The subtle spiciness of Riwaka’s hops, combined with the crisp spiciness from rye malt, presents liberated flavors, reminiscent of savory holiday cakes.

Rockford Brewing, Rockford

Big Jack Horner Style: Plum English Barleywine (11.2% ABV | 60 IBU). The richest and strongest of the English Ales, yet not as hop focused as the American versions. Historically English Barleywines were brewed for the winter or holiday season. A showcase of malty richness and complex, intense flavors balanced with higher levels of alcohol. This variation is brewed with fresh Michigan plums grown by the Meachum family at High Acres Fruit Farm in Hartford, which add a soft fruitiness to the background and help round out the flavor profile.

Schmohz Brewery, Grand Rapids

Miracle Off 28th Street (9.2% ABV | 28 IBU). Miracle is a paradigm of the finest malts and complex hop blends to build the superlative winter ale for mature tastes. Brewed as an Olde Ale, exhibiting the seasoned character of the brew house staff. Enjoy Miracle with family and friends, in front of hearth and home.

The Filling Station, Traverse City

Bristol Old Ale (10.5% ABV). UK Maris Otter, Rye, Special B, Black and German pilsner malts blend with UK Fuggles and Goldings hops and raw cane sugar to create this dark, rich beer with a bit of roast, with a sweet finish. Aging for over a year now, this will get your Yule log burning!

The Michigan Brewers Guild was formed in 1997 and held its first festival in July 1998. Today, the Guild hosts four festivals dedicated exclusively to Michigan craft beer produced by its 140-plus member breweries.

The Guild exists to unify the community of brewers, to increase the sale of Michigan Craft Beer, to contribute culturally and economically throughout the state, and to monitor and assure a healthy brewing industry. By working collaboratively with proponents of craft beer, we strive to achieve a 10% share of all beer sold in Michigan by producing world-class events, increasing public awareness, educating consumers, and encouraging responsible consumption.

Michigan ranks #5 in the nation for the number of craft breweries – thus supporting its claim as “The Great Beer State”.

Give the Gift of Michigan Beer & Brewery Swag

Chances are you have a craft beer lover (or two) on your holiday shopping list. This year, give the gift of Michigan beer, while also supporting locally-owned businesses and the state’s overall agricultural industry.

Stop in your local microbrewery or brewpub and pick up a growler, four- or six-pack of a seasonal brew and build your own gift basket with a selection of brewery swag like stickers, buttons, t-shirts, home décor, bottle openers, gift cards and other unique stocking stuffers. A membership in the pub’s “mug club” would also be a nice offering.

Many retail outlets around the state also feature Michigan-made brews, including 12-bottle variety packs or build-your-own-six-pack options which provide a more personal touch to your gift giving.

Shop online at MiBeer.com for a variety of logoed items from the Michigan Brewers Guild. You’ll find everything from apparel, backpacks, tote bags, drinkware, eyewear, flags, license plates, beach balls, bottle openers, patches, pins, stickers, tin tackers, umbrellas and more.

Michigan Brewers Guild Enthusiast Memberships also make great gifts, providing a year of benefits like pre-sale dates for the four official festivals and one hour early admission to each, dollar-off pint options at participating breweries, special brewery tours and an official Enthusiast t-shirt — all for just $45.

A handful of books dedicated to Michigan beer can also be found to enhance a gift pack, including the Beervangelist's Guide to the Galaxy: A Philosophy of Food & Drink by New Holland Brewing Company’s Beervangelist Fred Bueltmann; Art in Fermented Form: A Manifesto by New Holland Brewing Company’s Brett VanderKamp; Ann Arbor Beer: A Hoppy History of Tree Town Brewing by David Bardallis; and Michigan’s Best Beer Guide by Kevin Revolinski.

For video fans, DVDs of the inaugural season of the Great American Brew Trail featuring Amy Sherman as well as The Michigan Beer Film from Rhino Media are also great gifts.

At Meijer, look for a 2015 calendar focused on a dozen Michigan breweries. Or, head over to the Pure Michigan store for one of their logoed 15-ounce beer mugs.

Consider a gift certificate to Saugatuck Brewing for their popular “Brew Your Own Beer” program (perfect for family gatherings). Or, indulge with one of the “Brew & Renew” spa packages available at the JW Marriott in downtown Grand Rapids.

About the Michigan Brewers Guild
The Michigan Brewers Guild was formed in 1997 and held its first festival in July 1998. Today, the Guild hosts four festivals dedicated exclusively to Michigan craft beer produced by its nearly 140 member breweries. The Guild exists to unify the community of brewers, to increase the sale of Michigan Craft Beer, to contribute culturally and economically throughout the state, and to monitor and assure a healthy brewing industry. By working collaboratively with proponents of craft beer, we strive to achieve a 10% share of all beer sold in Michigan by producing world-class events, increasing public awareness, educating consumers, and encouraging responsible consumption. Michigan ranks #5 in the nation for the number of craft breweries – thus supporting its claim as “The Great Beer State”.

MiWinter Beer Fest Tickets Sell at Record Pace

Saturday Tickets SOLD OUT!
Friday Tickets Remain Available at MiBeer.com

Saturday tickets for the 10th Annual Michigan Winter Beer Festival, held the end of February at Fifth-Third Ballpark north of downtown Grand Rapids have sold out in record time, once again. Tickets went on sale at 10am today (Thursday, December 4) and were sold out in less than a half-hour.

“We are pleased that we have added the second day to this popular event,” says Scott Graham, executive director of the Michigan Brewers Guild.

Earlier this summer, the Guild announced the expansion of its wildly popular Winter Beer Festival to a two-day event to accommodate growing demand for tickets. The Friday session will be held from 3-7pm. Tickets for Friday remain available, at $45 each, at MiBeer.com.

“I don’t ever want to take for granted how enthusiastic our fans get when it comes to attending our festivals,” Graham says. “It is both humbling and overwhelming that our festivals are so popular. It’s a testament to Michigan’s great craft brewing culture.”

Earlier this week, Enthusiast Members were offered a pre-sale period to purchase 1 ticket per person, per festival day, as a benefit of membership. Enthusiast membership also allows individuals the opportunity to one-hour early admission to all festivals, among other benefits.

The Michigan Brewers Guild was formed in 1997 and held its first festival in July 1998. Today, the Guild hosts four festivals dedicated exclusively to Michigan craft beer produced by its nearly 140 member breweries. The Guild exists to unify the community of brewers, to increase the sale of Michigan Craft Beer, to contribute culturally and economically throughout the state, and to monitor and assure a healthy brewing industry. By working collaboratively with proponents of craft beer, we strive to achieve a 10% share of all beer sold in Michigan by producing world-class events, increasing public awareness, educating consumers, and encouraging responsible consumption. Michigan ranks #5 in the nation for the number of craft breweries – thus supporting its claim as “The Great Beer State”.

Lansing Beer Week & Lansing Beer Fest Coming Up Mid June (Fest tickets on sale May 14 - 10am)

I’m a Beer Hound and Motor City Brew Tours presents the 3rd Annual Lansing Beer Week will take place from June 20 to June 28, 2014. This weeklong celebration will feature Michigan craft beer themed events throughout the greater Lansing area. The goal of Lansing Beer Week is to raise awareness of the craft beer industry while promoting patronage to local establishments and stimulating the greater Lansing area’s retail economy and Michigan made products.

Local breweries and beer centric bars will be offering craft beer themed events ranging from beer dinners to tap takeovers to special giveaways. Participating establishments include Zoobies Tavern, REO Town Pub, Midtown Beer Company, Reno's East and Reno's West, BAD Brewery, Tin Can, Taps 25, Nuthouse Sports Grill, Lansing Lugnuts, That's How We Brew, HopCat - East Lansing, Eagle Monk Brewery & Pub, What Up Dawg and Peppino's - East Lansing.

Lansing Beer Week concludes with Lansing Beer Fest in the Reo Town area of downtown Lansing on Saturday June 28th. The second annual Lansing Beer Fest is an outdoor beer festival occurring on Washington Avenue between South and Elm streets. The beer festival will feature 30 Michigan Breweries and nearly 100 craft beers and hard ciders. To see the full list of breweries attending, please visit the Lansing Beer Fest website. In addition to the great beer selection, the festival will feature live music by Mark Wayne Warner, Joe Wright and Lights & Caves. Food and vendors will be available to all attendees. A portion of the proceeds from this event will benefit the Reo Town Commercial Association.

Lansing Beer Fest tickets will officially go on sale Wednesday May 14, 2014 at 10am.

Learn more about all of the Lansing Beer Week events at: http://LansingBeerWeek.com

Learn more about all of the Lansing Beer Fest at: http://LansingBeerFest.com

About I'm a Beer Hound
I'm a Beer Hound is a Michigan Beer News Website, Membership Card and Event Promoter.
Find us online: http://ImaBeerHound.com

About “Motor City Brew Tours”
Guided Bus, Bike & Walking Tours to Michigan Breweries.
Find us online: http://MotorCityBrewTours

Rochester Mills Beers Now Available in Meijer Stores Across Michigan

Michigan-based Rochester Mills Beer Co. and Production Brewery announce expanded distribution of two of its core brands, Lazy Daze Amber Lager and Milkshake Stout, to 99 Meijer stores across Michigan.

“Meijer is committed to supporting Michigan breweries, as evident in the growing number of quality, locally brewed craft beers they offer,” said Mike Plesz, founder of Rochester Mills Production Brewery. “It is especially gratifying to see Rochester Mills beers added to shelves of stores we have shopped at for years.”

Lazy Daze Amber is a Vienna Style Lager. A clear filtered beer that boasts a rich amber color and medium-bodied flavor from a combination of German hops and Munich malt for a subtle sweetness. Milkshake Stout is a deep dark beer featuring a smooth texture and surprisingly light body. The combination of four different malts with a low hop level creates rich, sweet roasted chocolate, caramel and coffee flavors.

“We’ve focused on a careful and controlled rollout of Rochester Mills brands beyond the brewpub with a consistent supply to our wholesalers,” said Earl Smith, CEO of Rochester Mills Production Brewery. “We have also continually made significant investments to increase the capacity of our brewing operations to meet the demand for our beer as its popularity grows.”

The Rochester Mills Production Brewery, brewers of Rochester Mills Beer Co. brands for distribution, began as a startup brewery in Auburn Hills, Mich. in 2012, quickly becoming one of the top craft beer producers in the state. Their Lagers and Ales packaged in 16oz. aluminum cans are currently featured in grocery stores as well as independent and franchise convenient stores, and specialty beverage merchants statewide. Additionally, their four core brands, which include Milkshake Stout, Lazy Daze Amber Lager, Cornerstone IPA, and Rochester Red Ale, along with rotating seasonal offerings, can be found flowing from more than 500 taps at bars and restaurants across Michigan and North West Ohio.

ABOUT ROCHESTER MILLS BEER CO. & PRODUCTION BREWERY:
Rochester Mills Beer Co. has been one of the top producing brewpubs in Michigan since it opened in 1998. The pub offers a diverse beer menu with eleven different styles of beer consistently available as well as a number of reoccurring seasonal offerings. In 2012 the Rochester Mills Production Brewery was opened and began producing select year-round and seasonal offerings that are distributed across Michigan on draft and in 16oz. aluminum cans and remains one of the fastest growing craft breweries in the State.

More information can be found on their website at: www.beercos.com.

For media inquiries, please contact David Youngman at (248) 797-6012.

For retailers looking to carry Rochester Mills brands contact Eric Briggeman at (248) 377-3130.

Rochester Mills Beer Co. is a proud member of the Michigan Brewers Guild.

About Meijer:
Meijer is a Grand Rapids, Mich.-based retailer that operates 204 supercenters and grocery stores throughout Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky. As a pioneer of the “one-stop shopping” concept, Meijer stores have evolved through the years to include expanded fresh produce and meat departments, as well as pharmacies, comprehensive electronics departments, garden centers and apparel offerings. Additional information on Meijer and the ability to shop for more can be found at www.meijer.com.

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

Inaugural Lansing Microbrew & Music Festival Coming Up April 18-19 at Adado Riverfront Park

Craft brew, music and culinary lovers will gather at Adado Riverfront Park in downtown Lansing for the inaugural Lansing Microbrew & Music Festival scheduled for Friday and Saturday, April 18 and 19.

The festival will feature 50+ carefully selected Michigan, national and international craft breweries, 250+ craft beers, ciders, meads and wines as well as more than 100 musicians, marching bands, Homebrewer’s Challenge, food and brew pairings, rare and sour beer tours, and local food vendors.

Rockville, Maryland, band O.A.R. and reggae and hip hop musicians Dirty Heads will headline the Lansing Microbrew & Music Festival, festival producers announced today. Dirty Heads will play on Friday, April 18, and O.A.R. will perform on Saturday, April 19.

To celebrate the eleventh Microbrew and Music Festival, the popular regional event will tour to Lansing to host the event on the banks of the scenic Grand River. VIP and GA tickets include five 8oz. pours and custom tasting glass and feature 50+ carefully selected Michigan, national, and international craft breweries, rare beers including a unique festival edition, representatives and brewers from each brewery, 250+ flavors of beers, wines, ciders and meads, live musical acts, including headliners O.A.R. and Dirty Heads, marching bands, a silent disco DJ dance tent, and local food vendors. Festivities are scheduled to take place from 5-11 p.m. daily. In addition, VIP ticket buyers will gain early admittance and have access to entertaining lawn games, a heated VIP area, private restrooms, a dining area, hydration station, and custom food and beer pairings.

Microbrew & Music Festival will be working in conjunction with the Greater Lansing Food Bank and Xero Waste Events to bring you a wonderful event. 100% of proceeds from alcohol sales will benefit both of these non-profits. GLFB provides emergency food to individuals and families in need in Ingham, Eaton, Clinton, Shiawassee, Clare, Isabella and Gratiot counties. Food is distributed through an extensive network of food pantries and community kitchens located throughout the region. The Food Bank annually serves tens of thousands of people, many of them seniors and children. Our recipients also include the “working poor,” those individuals who are employed but don’t earn enough to meet housing, health, transportation and food needs. Xero Waste Events, is a Michigan non-profit organization providing comprehensive recycling services and educating communities on sustainable event practices. With the help of XWE, the 2013 Traverse City Summer Microbrew & Music Festival helped raise over $20,000 for Traverse City non-profit CherryT Ball which directly supports local food banks and Traverse Bay Children’s Advocacy Center. We are proud to partner with Xero Waste, as they also contribute an annual portion of its revenues to local charities.

Sam Porter, founder of the Microbrew & Music Festival, anticipates the festival will provide a burst of energy to the central Michigan region. “We’re excited to launch our eleventh festival as the first annual Lansing Microbrew and Music Festival. We have welcomed over 50,000 ticket buyers to ten [Traverse City] Microbrew and Music festivals over the past five years to experience the craft brew culture and great music of Michigan. Our goal is to have another sold-out festival and help drive thousands of residents and visitors into area businesses, bars and restaurants during an otherwise slower week in April,” he says. Porter adds that after-parties at downtown establishments will further connect festival attendees with the retailers.

The Microbrew & Music Festival at Adado Riverfront Park will take place under a 4,000 capacity mobile tent – the first of its kind in the US. It will house the main stage and provide cover and protection from the elements, if needed. Previous patrons have compared this spectacular structure’s appearance to the Sydney Opera House. Visit Tent Venue’s Facebook page for more information.

The Microbrew & Music Festival educates, celebrates, and inspires community collaboration through the joy of craft brew and great music while raising funds for non-profits.

Tickets and festival details are available at www.microbrewandmusic.com/lansing-tickets. Festival announcements, giveaways, and other information can be found at www.facebook.com/microbrewandmusic. Attendees are strongly encouraged to purchase tickets in advance, as the festival has sold out in past years.

Ticket buyers must be 21 years old.

Brewery Terra Firma Now Open with 7 Beers on Tap...Coming Soon: 40 Taps of Terra Firma Beer

Brewery Terra Firma opened its doors at 2959 Hartman Rd. on the historic 10-acre Dracka Farm just south of the Grand Traverse Mall over the 4th of July Holiday. The brewery is now pouring seven beers crafted onsite and will eventually house 40 taps of Brewery Terra Firma beers. Taproom hours are 10am-10pm Monday through Saturday and 2pm to 9pm on Sunday.

The brewery is primarily a production facility which will be distributing it’s beer in the seven county area surrounding Traverse City serviced by H. Cox & Son. Distribution began early this week with Manitou Amber Ale and Gladstone American Pale Ale already arriving in local establishments. The taproom adjacent to the brew house seats 64 people along with an outdoor beer garden. Food is not prepared onsite; patrons are welcomed and encouraged to bring their own food. Local snacks and soda will also be available to compliment the wide variety of beer.

The current beer menu offers a variety of well balanced styles including a blonde ale, amber ale, american pale ale, india pale ale, black IPA, extra special bitter and a porter. The Bee Hive Honey Blonde is brewed with buckwheat honey sourced from the sustainable apiary on the brewery’s farm. The Manitou Amber Ale is the original Northern Michigan classic which was one of Michigan’s most popular and most widely distributed brews in the late 90s under Traverse Brewing Company. The Black Orchid Vanilla Bean Porter is a rich porter laid down over Madagascar vanilla beans. Future releases include the Donkey Smasher Imperial Brown Ale and brew master John Niedermaier’s famous Ancho Chili Dutch Double Chocolate Porter.

Brewery Terra Firma (Terra Firma-Latin for Solid Earth) sits on ten acres of farmland that will generate ingredients used by the brewery to make its beers. Hops, herbs, fruits, vegetables and even honey will be produced, using sustainable production methods, environmentally conscious waste management and innovative water and heat reclamation systems. Brewery Terra Firma will be a contributor to the local economy of Traverse City and is already becoming a model for the next level of ultra-efficient microbreweries. The goal of Brewery Terra Firma is to brew the best beer possible, and to respect the land, the community, their patrons and their employees while doing so. Terra Firma is the vision of Brew Master, John Niedermaier.

For more information on the brewery, visit Brewery Terra Firma on Facebook or at BreweryTerraFirma.com.

Something Exciting is Rolling in on the Lake Michigan Shore: Stormcloud Brewing to Open June 21 in Frankfort

A long-time dream is coming true in northwest Michigan, with the opening of Stormcloud Brewing Company in downtown Frankfort. Owners Rick Schmitt and Brian Confer (who is also the head brewer) open their 3100-square-foot microbrewery on Friday, June 21.

Confer, a homebrewer for more than 10 years, is focusing his talents on Belgian-inspired ales – something that no other brewer in the region is doing. These well-balanced beers are brewed with specific attention to the yeast profiles – which Confer says gives each beer its personality, particularly at the finish (while hops and malt lend the flavors).

The name Stormcloud reflects the motion of the creative process of brewing, as well as the moods of the Northern Michigan skies. A focal point of the taproom is a giant image of storm clouds rolling in over the lake, taken by Confer himself – a noted photographer and owner of studio b photography. This part of the building dates back to the 1940s and was originally the 7-Spot restaurant and bar and was later a TV shop in the 1970s.

In addition to the unique light fixtures, the taproom features intricate yet vintage-looking ceiling fans which are operated by a single motor and pulley system. The bar and table tops boasts repurposed wood from the nearby Beulah bowling alley lanes and the 16 tap handles were crafted out of old cutting boards.

The brewing facility occupies a 2000-square-foot, two-story addition which features ground-to-ceiling windows on the south side, providing full viewing for guests to observe the gleaming tanks and the beer making process.

Outside, a 1200-square-foot covered beer garden provides seating for 50, weather permitting. A large green-space to the west of the building is expected to be planted with hop bines and an herb garden at some point in the future. To the west of the brewery lies a valuable promotional partner, the historic Garden Theater (of which Schmitt, the former Vice President of Marketing & Sales for the nearby Crystal Mountain Resort, is also co-owner).

More than a dozen people will be employed at Stormcloud, including three in the brewing operations. Chef John Snyder is managing the kitchen operations, with a pub menu focused on foods that pair well with the beer offerings – including a dedicated pizza with ingredients from Echo Bend Farm, a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) establishment located just 10 minutes from the brewery. A copy of the menu is available upon request.

Stormcloud Brewing is located at 303 Main St., Frankfort – just two blocks from Lake Michigan.

www.StormcloudBrewing.com
www.facebook.com/StormcloudBrewing
@StormcloudBrew

New Holland Brewing Co's Fred Bueltmann Releases First Book: Beervangelist’s Guide to the Galaxy

Fred Bueltmann (also known as The Beervangelist) is an owner of New Holland Brewing Co. and an outspoken, fiercely passionate champion of well-made beer and food. Well-known in the beer and food communities, Fred’s exuberant and sometimes manic quest to artfully integrate beer with food led to his first book — Beervangelist’s Guide to the Galaxy.

The book is chock-full of mouth-watering recipes and tantalizing photos, and features rants on the culture of food, drink, and entertaining. Bueltmann’s journey is one of waking up our taste buds, educating our palates, and remembering that our food and drink are meant to be enjoyed—even relished.

“Fred has created a comprehensive guide to tasting, pairing, seasonal cooking, and most importantly – drinking! From novice to pro, if you want to be a better beer drinker, this book is for you,” said Paul Kahan, Executive Chef, The Publican and James Beard Foundation’s Outstanding Chef, 2013.

The Beervangelist will be attending several events and book signings in Michigan and on the East Coast in June. Catch up with him on the road at any number of events. He’ll be kicking off his tour in conjunction with the prestigious Savor event in New York City, where he’ll be hosting two salons on beer and food. For his most current schedule - you can visit his book's web page HERE or his Facebook page HERE.

If you're unable to meet up with him, you can find his book on the New Holland ONLINE STORE or at AMAZON.

Wholesale books available for retailers HERE.

About Fred
Fred Bueltmann (a.k.a. The Beervangelist) is an owner of New Holland Brewing Company and nationally-recognized expert on pairing beer and food. He is a Certified Cicerone®, past president of the Michigan Brewers Guild and recipient of their prestigious Tom Burns Award recognizing the “pioneering spirit of the Great Beer State.” He also serves as a judge for the Brewers Association’s Great American Beer Festival. Fred authored the book Beervangelist’s Guide to the Galaxy and pens the column Beer and Food with the Beervangelist which appears in various flavorful magazines.

About New Holland Brewing Co.
New Holland Brewing Company’s deep roots in the craft industry go back to 1997. Our role as an integral member of the artisan approach is something we take seriously, yet engage lightheartedly. We believe the art of craft lives in fostering rich experiences for our customers, through creating authentic beer, spirits and food while providing great service. Recognized for our creativity and artistry, our mission to improve the lives of craft consumers everywhere is seen in our diverse, balanced collection of beer and spirits.
New Holland brews and distills at two locations in Holland, Michigan: our production facility on the north side and our Pub & Restaurant in downtown Holland. The restaurant welcomes guests seven days a week and production tours are on Saturday afternoons. We welcome visitors and locals alike, and appreciate the opportunity to share our artisan approach through warm hospitality and enriching education.

With just under 150 employees, New Holland Brewing Co. sells its beer and spirits across a growing regional landscape, while anchored in the upper Midwest. In 2012, our production facility underwent substantial development including the tripling of our brewing capacity through outdoor fermentation, the addition of a centrifuge and the expansion of our Dragon’s Milk cellar. In 2013, the company is expanding its distilling capabilities, renovating the downtown Holland Pub & Restaurant and focusing on the integration of Michigan agriculture; hops, wheat and barley, into several new and existing brands.

Lansing Beer Week & Lansing Beer Fest Dates Announced (June 23-29, 2013)

The second annual Lansing Beer Week will take place from June 23 to June 29, 2013. This weeklong celebration will feature Michigan craft beer themed events throughout the greater Lansing area. The goal of Lansing Beer Week is to raise awareness of the Michigan craft beer industry while promoting patronage to local establishments and stimulating the greater Lansing area’s retail economy and Michigan made products.

Lansing Beer Week was established by “I’m a Beer Hound” founder, Paul Starr and “Motor City Brew Tours” founder, Steve Johnson. Planned events include an auto history themed bike & brew tour, retail store beer tasting, women of craft beer event, beer and bacon pairing and downtown bar crawl. Lansing Beer Week concludes with Lansing Beer Fest in the Reo Town area of downtown Lansing on Saturday June 29th. Lansing Beer Fest is an outdoor beer festival on Washington Avenue that will feature 12 Michigan Breweries and 30+ craft beers. A portion of the proceeds from this event will benefit the Reo Town Community Association. All of these events will feature Michigan made beers.

Schedule of Events – June 23-29:
• June 23 - Sunday: Auto History – Bike & Brew Tour – Reo Town Pub
• June 24 - Monday: Retail Store Beer Sampling Day – Various locations
• June 24 - Monday: Women of Craft Beer Event – Midtown Beer Company
• June 25 - Tuesday: Beer & Bacon Pairing – Reno’s East
• June 26 - Wednesday: Bar tap events – Various locations
• June 27 - Thursday: Craft Beer Bar Crawl – Downtown Lansing
• June 28 - Friday: Special Beer Releases at all Lansing area breweries
• June 29 - Saturday: Lansing Beer Fest – Reo Town – Lansing

Learn more about all of the Lansing Beer Week events at: http://LansingBeerWeek.com

About “I’m A Beer Hound”
I'm a Beer Hound is a Michigan Beer News Website, Membership card and App.
Find us online: http://ImaBeerHound.com or http://Facebook.com/ImaBeerHound.com

About “Motor City Brew Tours”
Guided Bus, Bike & Walking tours to Michigan Breweries.
Find us online: http://MotorCityBrewTours or http://Facebook.com/MotorCityBrewTours

Contact us: Steve@LansingBeerWeek.com / 248-850-2563

Saugatuck Brewing Company Earns "Best in Show" Honors for the Second Year in a Row at World Expo of Beer Competition

For the second year in a row, a beer from Saugatuck Brewing Company has been awarded “Best in Show” at the World Expo of Beer competition in Frankenmuth, MI. (ESB/Amber received the same distinction in 2012.) Receiving a Gold Medal in the American Ale category, Bonfire Brown was then selected tops among the 29 Gold Medal winners and 571 total entries. The competition, which precedes the festival (May 17-18) included entries from over 70 breweries from 12 states and 9 countries. Also, SBC’s Neapolitan Milk Stout was awarded a Silver Medal in the Spice/Herb/Vegetable category.

Brewed with ten different malts plus Cascade and U.S. Goldings hops, Bonfire Brown is billed as a “classic American Brown Ale with a touch of smoke.” It is moderate in alcohol (5.5% ABV) with relatively low bitterness (20 IBUs). Bonfire Brown is distributed in 6-packs and on tap throughout Michigan and greater Chicago.

Saugatuck Brewing Company is a microbrewery with a family friendly pub/restaurant, complete with outdoor seating and an upscale banquet room (“The Singapore Room”). Fifteen unique beer styles, all brewed in house, plus wine and hard cider are served daily in the Pub. “SBC” also distributes eleven styles in 6 and 4-packs, plus kegs throughout Michigan and metro Chicago. The brewery features one of the only active brew-on-premise facilities in Michigan, utilizing five copper kettles and an array of natural ingredients and recipes, for the public to become “Brewmaster for a Day.”

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

Harmony Brewing Releases Grote Pier Double IPA (Dutch Days Celebration Planned for April 25-28)

With a nod to the arrival of spring and the region’s Dutch culture, Harmony Brewing Company proudly announces the release of its latest brew. Grote Pier Double IPA boasts literally double the ingredients of Harmony’s normal IPA, including a massive amount of hops like Northern Brewer and Chinook. Made with a huge grain bill, including rye to add spiciness and complexity, this one of the biggest beers in Harmony’s portfolio with a 9.5% ABV.

The beer is aptly named after the legendary 1400s Frisian (Dutch) warrior, Grote Pier – whose life is shrouded mostly in legend, focused around his enormous size and strength. An historical figure in the genre of Braveheart, Grote Pier became a freedom fighter of legendary standing after his wife and kinfolk were killed and his property was pillaged, plundered, burned and destroyed. His historical status – whether seen as a villain or a hero – has endured over the centuries and embodies a reputation of brute force.

“I loved the idea of naming our biggest, hoppiest beer after this gigantic guy,” says co-owner and brewer Jackson Van Dyke. “We thought that it would be great to have a whole celebration surrounding this beer, while highlighting some unique facets of Dutch culture.”

Dutch Days are scheduled at Harmony, April 25-28, featuring Dutch treats, food and cocktails made with the Dutch Gin, Genever, as well as plenty of Grote Pier.

Harmony Brewing Company opened in 2012 in Grand Rapids’ Eastown neighborhood. Harmony is owned by siblings Heather Van Dyke-Titus, Barry Van Dyke and Jackson Van Dyke (Barry and Jackson are co-brewers). Harmony offers rustic wood fired pizzas, salads, house made soups and some snacks (with an expanded menu coming soon) and was named among the “Top Five West Michigan Brewpub Menus” by Revue magazine.

HARMONY BREWING COMPANY
1551 Lake Drive, Grand Rapids
www.HarmonyBeer.com
LIKE Harmony Brewing on Facebook

Saugatuck Brewing Introduces “Michigan Wheat Ale” - Release Party Friday, April 5

Saugatuck Brewing Company is proud to announce they have collaborated with growers Michigan Malts and Empire Hop Farm in producing their summer seasonal release, “Michigan Wheat Ale.” Launching April 1st, the approved “Pure Michigan” style will contain 100% Michigan grown wheat, barley and hops. Michigan Wheat Ale will be a limited release, available on tap and in bottles (in the SBC Variety 12-pack) throughout Michigan and greater Chicago. A very limited quantity of 6-packs will be available for sale at the brewery only.

SBC will host a launch party, open to the public on Friday, April 5th from 5-7 PM. Representatives of both Michigan Malts and Empire Hops Farm will be on hand to help celebrate the occasion. Michigan Wheat Ale will be on tap for and also available in 6-packs for the event.

Saugatuck Brewing Company is a microbrewery with a family friendly pub/restaurant, complete with outdoor seating and an upscale banquet room (“The Singapore Room”). Fifteen unique beer styles, all brewed in house, plus wine and hard cider are served daily in the Pub. “SBC” also distributes ten styles in 6 and 4-packs, plus kegs throughout Michigan and metro Chicago. The brewery features one of the only active brew-on-premise facilities in Michigan, utilizing five copper kettles and an array of natural ingredients and recipes, for the public to become “Brewmaster for a Day.”

Saugatuck Brewing Company
2948 Blue Star Hwy.
Douglas, MI 49406
(269) 857-7222
www.saugatuckbrewing.com
www.facebook.com/saugatuckbrewingcompany

Greenbush To Distribute Bottled Beer in Michigan

The first deliveries of Greenbush Brewing Company bottles are now on the way to retail establishments throughout Michigan. Imperial Beverage, the company’s distributor in the state, received its first shipment of bottled beer from the 18-month old brewery at the end of last week. Until now, the brewery has only distributed kegs for draft accounts.

“We’ve been building toward distributing bottles since opening and now with the dedicated work of our staff, it’s happening,” said Greenbush co-owner Scott Sullivan. “The demand for bottles has continued to grow, especially since we started distributing kegs statewide through Imperial Beverage last summer.”

Greenbush is first entering the retail market with five brands available in either four or six packs: Closure, Dunegräs, Distorter, Anger and Brother Benjamin.

Closure is a 6% ABV pale ale that is single-hopped with citrusy Apollo hops for a bitterness of 40 IBUs (international bittering units). Dunegräs is the brewery’s 6.7% ABV India pale ale (IPA) with 67 IBUs, while Distorter is a full-bodied 7.2% porter. One of Greenbush’s signature styles is its black IPA, Anger, which rates at 7.6% ABV and 85 IBUs. The last of the brands headed to market is Brother Benjamin, a 10.1% ABV/115 IBU imperial IPA with local honey from FloraLia farms in Baroda, MI.

“It was crucial to us to send our most demanded beers out to retail markets first,” said co-owner and “Ambassador of Everything” Jill Sites. “We look forward to adding seasonal beers as well as more staples and specialties in the future.”
Greenbush bottles will be available to customers of select retailers throughout the state beginning midweek.

About Greenbush Brewing Co.
Prior to summer 2011, Scott Sullivan, Justin Heckathorn and Jill Sites handed out more than 9,000 bottles of homebrewed beer to everyone they could think of, and Greenbush Brewing Company was born. Opened in June 2011 in Sawyer, Michigan, the burgeoning brewery creates beer with names like Anger, Closure, Mammoth and Doomslayer—and with nothing under 6% ABV, the monikers are indicative of the styles. The brewery serves beer and food out of its Sawyer taproom seven days a week and currently distributes throughout the state of Michigan, in metro Chicago and Northern Indiana. http://www.greenbushbrewing.com

Snowshoes Meet Microbrews at Timber Ridge Resort's 7th Annual Suds & Snow (Sat, March 2)

Michigan has a growing interest in two major areas – snowshoeing and craft beer. These two worlds collide, in the best possible way, during the 7th Annual Suds & Snow planned for Saturday, March 2 (1:30-6:30pm) at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort in Traverse City.

The cost to participate in Suds & Snow is $20 per person in advance ($30 the day of) – with $5 from every ticket being donated to Child & Family Services of Northwestern Michigan.

“In the past six years, we have donated more than $30,000 to help local organizations – including several adoption and foster care groups, TART Trails and the Father Fred Foundation,” says Kristin Levesque.

Admission includes a commemorative pint glass for the first 500 ticket purchasers, 1 drink ticket for a 16 ounce pour, trail pass and live music. Additional drink and food tickets are available for $4 each. Admission tickets can be purchased online here. The nonrefundable ticket (event proceeds rain, shine, or blizzard).

Those needing to rent snowshoes can do so by contacting Brick Wheels (231-947-4247) or Timber Ridge (213-947-2770). Snowshoes are available on a first come, first served basis, for $10 per pair.

In past years, as many as 800 people gather each year to trek along some 5km of trails that link to the note Vasa Pathway, followed by a the chance to sample handcrafted beers from some of Michigan’s most noted breweries – including Bell’s, Greenbush, Right Brain, Saugatuck, Schmohz and Short’s. Participating restaurants offer small plates.

Live entertainment will be provided by the band Jason and Nick, as well as Levi Britton & Chris Sterr, with special guest Jonny Tornga.

New for 2013 is the addition of Disc Golf – creating something fun for participants to do between the trail station and the main event hall. Whether new to the sport or an experienced player, this added recreational feature is sure to entertain. Give it a try – with our without your snowshoes! Bring your own disc or rent one at the resort.

Celtic Transportation, ever mindful of the need for transportation at an event of this nature, will be offering rides to and from downtown Traverse City and several hotels for Suds & Snow participants. There is no charge for this service, so guests are asked to please take advantage of this much needed safe shuttle.

For those traveling to Traverse City from afar, local hotels are offering special savings on lodging packages for the event. Check out Traverse Bay Inn (800-968-2646); Grand Beach Resort (800-968-1992); Sugar Beach Resort (800-509-1995); Grand Traverse Resort and Spa (800-236-1577) and Cherry Tree Inn and Suites (800-439-3093).

Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort, located at 4050 Hammond Rd. East in Traverse City, is an all-season recreation resort featuring seasonal RV camping and cottage rentals; family oriented activities; banquet facilities and various-sized reception tents for weddings, events, reunions, family gatherings, and meetings; access to the popular VASA hiking, biking, and xc ski trail system; direct access to miles of powersports trails; park model sales; and renowned events like the North American VASA, Iceman Cometh Challenge mountain bike race, Bigfoot Snowshoe Race and Timber Ridge’s own Suds & Snow.

Visit www.TimberRidgeResort.net or call (231) 947-2770 for more information.

SPONSORED BY:
American Waste | KLT 97.5 / 98.9 The Rock Station | Brick Wheels | Events to Remember | Carly's Playground

Saugatuck Brewing Company launches 3rd Annual "Beer School 101"

SBC will again be hosting a series of tasting events designed to educate the craft beer community. They will be held on the last Thursdays of Jan, Feb, March and April at 7 PM and will be hosted by SBC Sales Manager Scott Farney and brewers John Stewart and Dexter Gauntlett.

Tickets are available at the door only at $10/person ($8-Pint Club members) (except for Thurs. April 25th $15/pp, $12/Pint Club members).

Topics will cover:

Thurs. 1/31 – The Wonders of Beer Yeast

Thurs. 2/28 – All About Hops

Thurs. 3/28 – World Beer Styles

Thurs 4/28 – The Flavors of Beer with Food (will include pairing of 5 different beers with small food portions)

More detailed information can be found at www.sbrewing.com

Saugatuck Brewing Company is a microbrewery with a family friendly pub/restaurant, complete with outdoor seating and an upscale banquet room (“The Singapore Room”). Fifteen unique beer styles, all brewed in house, plus wine and hard cider are served daily in the Pub. “SBC” also distributes ten styles in 6 and 4-packs, plus kegs throughout Michigan and metro Chicago. The brewery features one of the only active brew-on-premise facilities in Michigan, utilizing five copper kettles and an array of natural ingredients and recipes, for the public to become “Brewmaster for a Day.”

Saugatuck Brewing Company
2948 Blue Star Hwy.
Douglas, MI 49406
(269) 857-7222
www.saugatuckbrewing.com
www.facebook.com/saugatuckbrewingcompany

Harmony Brewing Celebrates First Anniversary on February 1 with Party & Commemorative Brew

On Friday February 1st Harmony Brewing Company at 1551 Lake Drive in Eastown will celebrate its year anniversary by throwing a birthday party. As part of the festivities they will release the commemorative beer: Birthday Barleywine.

According to Co-Owner and Co-Brewer Jackson Van Dyke, “We thought that because we are a new member to Beer City U.S.A. and part of a state that is emerging as a beer powerhouse that to celebrate our anniversary we would brew a beer with hops grown in the city of Grand Rapids and use grain grown and malted in Michigan. It is a malty, slightly sweet beer that has a strong hop bitterness and aroma. It is also smooth, so its 9% alcohol by volume is deceptive and will have you in a celebratory mood."

The party, which will include the normal birthday party traditions like cake and balloons will celebrate Harmony’s tremendously successful first year. Harmony quickly established itself as a fixture in the Eastown neighborhood and drew large crowds and a loyal customer base with its small batches of well -balanced beer and rustic wood fired pizzas. In November Harmony was awarded the prestigious Gerald R. Hemholdt Award for excellence in a Neighborhood Business District. They were also awarded the first ever “Best Neighborhood Pint” award.

"It is an amazing time to be in the beer industry!” said co-owner and co-Brewer Barry Van Dyke. “This city is a BEER TOWN: the people know and love their beer. Combine the constant engagement with a pumped up and dedicated client base with the amazingly synergistic relationship that exists with other breweries in the area, and you get a brewery culture that pushes everyone to be highly creative and produce a truly excellent product. I think that everybody expects big things to evolve from the Grand Rapids Beer scene. We're so happy that our little brewpub gets to be part of the action, it's more than we could have imagined in just one year’s time."

Harmony Brewing Company is poised for continued growth. An expanded menu is in the works and there are plans for reinvestment in the brewpub’s facilities. Harmony will also be adding taps and featuring a bi-weekly cask aged series.

“We love being a part of this neighborhood.” said co-owner Heather Van Dyke-Titus. “We’ve been able to employ 26 local folks this year. Many of them walk to work. For us to have such a great reception in a neighborhood that we care so much about—that’s a true success. It means the world to us.”

According to Chef and Host of the Great American Brew Trail, Amy Sherman, “Hyper-local is the new local. Places like Harmony Brewing Company and The Mitten Brewing Co. here in GR are perfect examples...no desire to distribute, strong commitment to their neighborhood, thriving places to hang out and drink their own craft beer. I think we will see more of this in the bigger cities, a return to when there was a brewery in every neighborhood. So far this has been a formula for success for the Van Dykes and Harmony. I'm excited to see what this next year brings.”

Harmony Brewing Company is a Neighborhood Brewpub co-owned by three siblings: Barry and Jackson Van Dyke and Heather Van Dyke-Titus. They also own the sustainable real estate company: Bear Manor Properties-whose motto is “investing in communities”.

For more information check out our website: www.HarmonyBeer.com and our Facebook page.

Highly Anticipated Beer Hound Membership Card Features Discounts at 50+ Michigan Breweries & Beer Bars

The time has come for the launch of the Beerhound Membership card. This is a new and exciting way for all the loyal Howling Hounds across Michigan to actively participate in the Beerhound experience and to save money on food and merchandise while doing it at several dozen bars, restaurants, and breweries around the state.

The card costs $20 and comes with a full year's membership, or $35 for the card, membership, and exclusive 2013 Beerhound T-Shirt designed specifically for the card's release. Each participating location will be offering their own specific deal, most being around 10% to 15% off food or merchandise. There are currently over 50 participating locations around the state and the goal is to bring many more on board as time goes by.

This Membership Card is the product of many long hours of hard work by the Beerhound staff and they are proud and excited to be able to offer these savings to their loyal following. Eventually, the goal is to incorporate monthly member events at various participating locations throughout the state with tap-takeovers, special beer releases, and other exciting promotions.

About I'm a Beer Hound:
I'm a Beer Hound recently celebrated its second anniversary, but it started out as a simple, video beer review website. It has since grown into much more. Now, I'm a Beer Hound is a Michigan Beer News Website that releases usually an article each day that focuses on keeping up with the Michigan Beer scene. The site also has great features such as an extensive events calendar and an interactive user review system for beers, breweries, beer bars, and beer stores. They offer a unique way for Michigan beer lovers to interact and voice their opinions on the products and places they love in Michigan. In addition to their extensive online and social-media presence, I'm a Beerhound actively helps promote beer events & festivals around the state and holds monthly events of their own at various local bars and venues in the Lansing area.

Find Us Online at www.imabeerhound.com or http://www.facebook.com/ImaBeerHound