5/31

Molly’s & Aspen Collab

Molly’s Spirits has announced its third beer collaboration of 2018, this time with Aspen Brewing.
The brew, Molly’s Sip of Colorado, is a spin on a California Common beer, also referred to as a steam beer, using similar techniques at Aspen’s high altitude. Weighing in at 4.5% ABV, Molly’s Sip of Colorado has a subtle, sweet malt character with notes of pine, floral and mountain fruit from the Chinook and Palisade hops used.
“We want Molly’s Sip of Colorado to be a go-to choice for Denver imbibers to enjoy while hanging out on all the best rooftop patios, lakes and 14ers this summer,” said Jaylee Adams, marketing manager at Molly’s Spirits. “It’s sessionable and affordable enough that it’s a superb choice for any Colorado occasion.”
Sip of Colorado, $5.99 per 6-pack, is set to debut June 11 at Molly’s Spirits in northwest Denver.

Food Truck Stop Rally

The Truck Stop: Food Truck Rally Summer Series is rolling into Five Points this Saturday, June 2.
The food truck rally is completely free to enter, with all food and beverage available for purchase at customer discretion.
More than 30 food trucks will be strutting their stuff at the rally, along with beer and wine from several different vendors. For those who are looking to imbibe on unlimited drinks, the Truck Stop: Food Truck Rally offers a $25 Pit Stop Pass, which is good from 4-8 p.m.
The rally goes from 1-8 p.m. with the Pit Stop Pass starting at 4 p.m. The rally will be at 25th and Welton St.

Call to Arms McLovin Month

Bring on the hops!
Call to Arms Brewing Company has announced that it will celebrate hops during the entire month of June with McLovin Month.
“Hoppy beers have been an integral part of our lineup since day one, and we look forward to sharing the unique appreciation of what hops are and why brewers are so enamored with them,” said Chris Bell, owner and co-founder of Call to Arms.
During McLovin Month, Call to Arms will release more than 12 hop-centric beers, and bring back More Like Bore-O-Phyll - 2018 World Beer Cup Gold Medal Winner® in Fresh or Wet Hop Ale Category.
“In June 2017, we hosted our first Hop Month, and we are incredibly excited to keep the tradition going this year, especially after bringing home some hardware from the World Beer Cup for ‘More Like Bore-O-Phyll,” Bell said.

Bruz Bottle Release

Bruz Beers is set to release its Crossbones Belgian-style Rum Barrel Stout, a stout with distinct coffee and chocolate characteristics.
Crossbones boasts tropical rum and oak notes from the barrel aging, with complements of raisins, dark fall fruits and dates.
Bruz will release corked 750-ml. bottles of Crossbones starting at noon on Friday, June 1. With only 22 cases of Crossbones available, purchases will be limited to two bottles per person and will be available while supplies last.

5-23

Station 26 Mixed 12ers

Just in time for Memorial Day weekend and other summer activities, Station 26 Brewing Co. has released a mixed 12-pack, which includes brewery mainstays Colorado Cream Ale, Tangerine Cream, Juicy Banger IPA, and American Copper. Descriptions of each beer are below:
Colorado Cream Ale: Light, crisp and refreshing. Brewed with Colorado-grown ingredients, including Root Shoot Malting Genie Pale malt. 5.2% ABV, 15 IBUs.
Tangerine Cream: Sunshine in a glass. Station 26 Tangerine Cream Ale plus fruity creamsicle flavors, tangerine and vanilla. 5.2% ABV, 15 IBUs
Juicy Banger IPA: Station 26 Brewing’s flagship IPA. Notes of apricot, papaya, and honey. 7.4% ABV, 100+ IBUs.
American Copper: The Station 26 Amber Ale has a complex malt profile with a balanced hop character. 5.4% ABV, 33 IBUs.
Station 26 Brewing Co. produces craft beers in an old, 1960’s fire station in Denver’s Park Hill neighborhood.

Alpine Start Foods Takes Instant Coffee a Step Further

Just one year ago, Alpine Start Foods revolutionized the instant coffee experience with on-the-go innovation and refined taste.
The company started with an Original Blend, but has just announced the addition of two new flavors: Coconut Creamer Latte andDirty Chai Latte.
“As a professional climber and adventure athlete, I am always traveling and exploring different culinary experiences,“ said Matt Segal, co-founder of Alpine Start Foods. “I was very inspired by exotic spices and seasonings and decided to pair them with my instant cup of coffee. This allowed us to capture the spice of traveling in these new blends.”

Banded Oak Turns Two

Enjoy a variety of music from modern folk to funk while sipping barrel-aged beers under the covered patio at Banded Oak Brewing Co.’s second anniversary celebration.
From noon-11 p.m. on Saturday, June 9, Banded Oak will celebrate two years in its brewery and taproom, located at 470 Broadway in Denver. Modern folk band Deborah Solo Trio will play, followed by funk band Sleazy Grease and Friends from 6-8 p.m.
Banded Oak will also open its entire brewhouse for extra seating for those who would like to get a closer look at brewery operations. “Our barrel lineup has changed a lot in one year’s time,” said Will Curtin, co-owner of Banded Oak. “This time last year, we only had whiskey and cabernet barrels. We listened to our customers – what they like and don’t like – and now we have pinot noir, syrah, whiskey, and cabernet barrels. We’re excited to go into year three and continue changing the traditional notion of what it means to be a successful Denver brewery,” he said.

Call to Arms Releases Another Quirky Beer Name

You may remember Call to Arms’ release of Majestic Wolf Lamp, an oak-aged blended sour with blackcurrants that was named after a scene in the movie Step Brothers. More recently, the brewer released Shirtless Putin Nuzzling With Dolphins, an imperial Baltic porter with the additions of coffee.
For its newest beer release, the brewers at Call to Arms have decided to pay homage to yet another Will Ferrell movie, Anchorman.
On Thursday, June 14, Call to Arms will release Old Old Wooden Ship, a port-barrel aged sour saison, which boasts notes of ripe nectarine, grapefruit, guava and tart cherry.
“You may remember a scene in ‘Anchorman’ where Ron Burgundy thinks the term diversity means an Old Old Wooden Ship,” said Jon Cross, proprietor and header brewer at Call to Arms Brewing. “Well, we could be wrong here, but we feel this name is very fitting for a beer aged in old, old wooden barrels. And, it’s funny.”
Old Old Wood Ship weighs in at 6.1% ABV, and it will be available in the Call to Arms taproom starting at 3 p.m. on June 14. Only 200 bottles will be for purchase, at a price of $12 each. Limit four per person.

5/17

Maxline Celebrates Two-Year Anniversary

Fort Collins-based Maxline Brewing turns two this June and it is asking you to help celebrate. Food trucks, live music, and freshly tapped beer are all to be expected at the bash, which will be topped off with adoptable puppies.
The anniversary party will be held Saturday, June 16, at the Maxline taproom, 2724 McClelland Drive, No. 190, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Larry & The Pour Boys, Max Flinn and Drifting West will provide live music for the occasion, while The Goodness, The Rollin’ Stone Wood Fired Pizzeria and Mile High Lobster Shack will be the featured food trucks.
From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Animal House Rescue will be at Maxline with adoptable shelter dogs.
“Our second year has been a wild ride with incredible business growth and moving full-steam ahead with the expansion. We’re incredibly excited to unveil to the community our labor of love with this weekend-long celebration,” said Kevin Gearhardt, Maxline co-owner.

Denver Passport Program Summer Edition Returns May 25

Whether you're beer-curious or a craft beer and cocktail connoisseur, the Summer Passport has got you covered. The Denver Passport Summer Edition is a pocket-sized book, filled with 2-for-1 offerings from Denver’s hottest breweries, bars and distilleries.
“For our sixth summer we compiled a list of the 66 best bars and restaurants Denver has to offer,” said Amy Osgood, director of The Passport Program. “We’re featuring Frank Bonanno’s not-yet-opened Moo Bar in the Milk Market, while also not forgetting about his other concept Luca and its frozen Aperol Spritzes. We’re including James Beard award-winning chef Jennifer Jasinski’s newest concept Ultreia, as well as the nationally anticipated American Bonded,” she said.
New for this year, the Denver Passport Summer Edition includes more than beer and cocktails. One can also enjoy 2-for-1 pizza slices at Marquis Pizza and Sexy Pizza.
Participating Denver businesses include: Ace Eat Serve, Aloy Modern Thai, Alternation Brewing Co., American Bonded, Angelo’s Taverna, Banded Oak Brewing Co., Bar Fausto, Bear Creek Distillery, Bellwether, Bistro Vendôme, Block & Larder, Brazen Neighborhood Eatery, Copper Lounge, Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project, Deep Roots Winery & Bistro, Denver Distillery, Dio Mio, El Chapultepec, Euclid Hall Bar & Kitchen, FERMÆNTRA, Fish N Beer, Fort Greene Bar, French 75, Great Divide Brewing Co., Hudson Hill, Illegal Pete’s, Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar, Kachina, Leña, Leopold Bros., Lola Coastal Mexican, LOW Country Kitchen, Lowry Beer Garden, Luca, Middleman, MOO Bar at Milk Market, North County, Odell Brewing Co.’s RiNo Brewhouse, Ophelia's Electric Soapbox, Oskar Blues’ Black Buzzard, Park Burger, Punch Bowl Social, Ratio Beerworks, Root Down, Sarto’s, Seedstock Brewery, Skyline Beer Garden, Spangalang Brewery, Stem Ciders, Steuben’s Uptown, Stoic & Genuine, Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey, Tacos Tequila Whiskey, Tatarian, the ART, The Family Jones, The Post Brewing Co., The Way Back, there …, TRVE Brewing Co., Ultreia, Upstairs Circus, Vesper Lounge, Vital Root, Woods Boss Brewing Co., Zeppelin Station, Marquis Pizza and Sexy Pizza.

Intrepid Sojourner Celebrates First Competition Medal

The Intrepid Sojourner Beer Project celebrated its first major competition award earlier this month at the World Beer Cup.
Intrepid won the silver award in the experimental beer category for its Smoked Hickory Peach Wee Heavy, which is coincidentally one of the brewery’s first ever bottle releases. Intrepid Sojourner waited for its one year anniversary this week to release its first set of bottles.
“I’m thrilled for everyone at Intrepid Sojourner, but I’m especially thrilled for Andrew [Moore],” co-founder Ben Gettinger said of his business partner. “He knows more about beer and food than I know about anything. He has a special talent for using cuisine to complement and enhance the flavors already inherent in solid beer styles, really pushing the boundaries of how beer can taste yet making it more accessible.”
Intrepid Sojourner’s first set of bottle releases started Monday, with the release of its Barrel Aged Imperial Turkish Coffee Stout. The award-winning Smoked Peach Hickory Wee Heavy came out on Tuesday. The brewery released its Imperial Basil IPA on Wednesday, followed by a Belgian Quad on Thursday. The bottle release will conclude on Friday with the release of Imperial Sahti.
Bottles will be released at the Intrepid Sojourner taproom, 925 W 8th Ave., in Denver starting at 3 p.m. Thursday, and 11 a.m. Friday.
The week will be capped off with Intrepid’s first anniversary party on Saturday, May 19. More details can be found here.

Colorado Cider Co. Cans Another Fruited Cider

Aprècot, an apricot fruited cider will be the newest addition to Colorado Cider Co.’s rotating limited-release series and will be available in four-packs of 12-ounce cans, and on draft in Colorado Cider Co.’s tasting room until it’s gone.
“The idea for the cider came from the wild apricot trees that grow along the side roads and valleys near our Hotchkiss Orchard,” said founder Brad Page. “Pairing tart and juicy apricots and our fresh-pressed hard cider was an idea that was just too hard to pass up.”
Each pint of Aprècot will have 9 grams of sugar and a tart dried apricot flavor. It will be available through July.

4/26

Talbott’s Cider Company releases Colo-Mosa

Based in Palisade, Talbott’s Cider Co. has released its Colo-Mosa, a spring seasonal canned cider cocktail.
Talbott’s added orange and lime juice to its original cider blend, resulting in a beverage that tastes like a wine cocktail mimosa.
Kegs and 12-ounce cans are set to be distributed statewide throughout Colorado.

Lee Spirits Cocktail Class: All You Need to Know About Jerry Thomas

Colorado Springs’ Lee Spirits is hosting a cocktail class on Jerry Thomas at its speakeasy-inspired tasting room, Brooklyn’s on Boulder.
Considered “the father of American mixology,” Jerry Thomas was an American bartender in New York throughout the mid-1800s. He wrote the Bar-Tender’s Guide, which is said to be the first drink book ever published in the United States.
The class is $45, which includes a glass of Jerry Thomas inspired punch, four-ish cocktails for you to drink, a Lee Spirits notebook for tasting notes, light snacks and a raffle ticket to win other prizes throughout the event.
The cocktail class runs from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, April 29, at Brooklyn’s on Boulder, 110 E. Boulder St., Colorado Springs.

Find ticket info here.

Badfish Stand Up Paddle Introduces Two New Designs

The SK8 and River Surfer 2.0 from Badfish Stand Up Paddleboards have arrived.

Badfish’s SK8 is the ultimate river surfing board. Its short body provides enough volume to rip event the smallest waves. Paying a nod to Badfish’s roots as skaters, the SK8 provides a concave deck and traction to keep the board connected to your feet.
Freshly updated for 2018, the River Surfer 2.0 maintains its volume to surf effectively in river waves, but a narrower tale allows it to turn tighter.

Find out more about the Badfish SUP new releases here.

Great Divide Receives State-Sponsored Recycling Grant

Great Divide Brewing Co. was awarded $16,000 to launch a local recycling program among the RiNo neighborhood. The grant is part of Recycling Resources Economic Opportunity (RREO) competitive grant program, a program administered by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment(CDPHE).

Great Divide plans to use the funds to establish itself as a community recycling center for manufacturing businesses in RiNo.
Recycling centers don't take polypropylene grain bags and shrink wrap unless the items are baled (compacted into blocks that can be stacked and easily transported), and without a baler, these items go directly to landfills.
“We estimate that we use 2,000 pounds of polypro grain bags a month, and all of this was going to the dump,” said Erin Cox, sustainability coordinator at Great Divide. “We realized if we were struggling with recycling these items, then surely our neighboring breweries were also having the same issue.”
The brewery has used the grant to purchase two balers and a pallet scale in order to get community recycling efforts under way. Great Divide will launch a pilot program with neighboring breweries Bierstadt Lagerhaus and Black Shirt Brewing this spring before opening up its community recycling efforts to other small RiNo businesses this fall.

Wibby Celebrates Two Awards at Frankfurt International

The Frankfurt International Trophy is a competition in Frankfurt, Germany, where more than 2,200 wines, beer and spirits from all over the world are judged.
There were more than 60 beer categories in the competition and Longmont’s Wibby Brewing entered its flagship Lightsine Helles and popular seasonal Volksbier Vienna in the competition. Both were awarded.
Volksbier Vienna was awarded Silver in the Red and Amber Lager category, while Wibby’s Lightshine Helles was one of only two American beers to claim a Grand Gold.
"They will only give out a Grand Gold to beer they thought was the best they tasted in the competition for that style," co-founder and brewmaster Ryan Wibby said. "That means German beer judges were so impressed with our Lightshine Helles, they believe it is the best helles lager they tasted in competition."
This marks the second gold medal Lightshine Helles has won at the international level, after winning gold at the Copa Internacional De Cerveza Pura Vida Indie in Costa Rica last year.

Snippets from the Colorado craft scene 4/5

Call to Arms Collabs with soon-to-open Novel Strand Brewing Co.

Novel Strand Brewing Co. is a Denver-based brewery that is scurrying to open its taproom at 305 1st Ave. But they're already brewing beer. Novel Strand has collaborated with Call to Arms Brewing Co. on three different beers. The first collab was made in 2016.

The original collab was dubbed The Notorious G.L.E.E.K., a dry hopped sour ale. It wasn’t the only project Call to Arms and Novel Strand recently collaborated on. In early March, the two breweries came together for another collab release they concocted: Galactic Funk Punch.

“Following last month’s Galactic Funk Punch can release, we wanted to continue to play with Brettanomyces and dry hopping,” said Call to Arms owner and co-founder Chris Bell. “The result is an incredibly crisp, refreshing and pleasantly tart beer that is perfect for the beginning of spring.”

April 21 will mark the release of Vol. II: Still Gleekin’, which is an ale that was soured without hops, then fermented 100 percent in a Cabernet Sauvignon barrel before being dry hopped with Mosaic hops.

Still Gleekin’ will be a sour ale that provides hints of pineapple and wine before boasting notes of peach, pear, pineapple and white grape.

The release is set for noon on Saturday, April 21, at Call to Arms Brewing Co., 4526 Tennyson St.

Saison, Salad, and a New IPA at Fiction

On Friday, April 6, Fiction Beer Co. released a Galaxy Double Dry Hopped New England Style IPA called Never Tell Me The Hops.

The following Saturday marks the first Saisons and Salads event at Fiction. There will be seven saisons on tap and they will also release a bottle conditioned peach saison. The salad competition will boast two categories: general salad and pasta salad, and prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place.

The tap list for Saison and Salads is listed below:

Rum barrel aged mixed fermentation blackberry Saison
Rum barrel aged mixed fermentation plum Saison
A Saison blend from the two above barrels
Sour Saison
Saison (brewed in collaboration with their friends at Strange Craft Brewing)
Motueka Dry Hopped Saison

Bottle Conditioned Brett Peach Saison Release
- $15 per 22oz bottle
- Limited release (only 50 bottles!)

Holidaily to Expand Production Capabilities

Holidaily Brewing Co. is the only dedicated gluten free brewery in Colorado and one of just eight in the nation.

After opening in Golden in 2016 and seeing sizeable growth, the brewing company has decided to expand into a 10,000-square-foot production facility that will eventually allow them to brew up to 20,000 barrels per year.

“Through our first two years of existence, we’ve seen great growth and acceptance of the Holidaily brand,” said founder Karen Hertz. “The demand for gluten-free products is strong and we’re excited by the opportunity to distribute our beer to all of Colorado, and potentially beyond.”

Erected right across the street from their taproom in Golden, the company is hoping to get the facility up and running by the end of 2018 and have the space fully built out by 2021.

Funkwerks Flagships Now Available in 6-packs

Funkwerks has replaced 4-packs of their flagship Saison, Tropic King, Raspberry Provincial and Pineapple Provincial with 6-packs.

“As we grow and expand into other markets we wanted to become more accessible to the consumer. Transitioning from 4-packs to 6-packs allows us to focus on our top sellers and distribute those brands more widely across multiple markets,” explains Brad Lincoln, Funkwerks president and co-founder.

Funkwerks’ new packaging format is available in Arizona, Texas, Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Missouri, and will become available in Colorado throughout the month of April.

Select Funkwerks’ limited releases will remain available in 750 ml bombers.

Great Divide Adds Another IPA to Year-Round Lineup

Great Divide Brewing Co. is excited to announce Heyday Modern IPA will be joining Titan IPA, Hazy IPA and Hercules Double IPA in its arsenal of India Pale Ales starting in May.

Great Divide has been refining the Heyday recipe for more than a year and the final product is a hazy, modern IPA that weighs in at 5.8 percent ABV and boasts notes of tropical fruit, berry and melon. “The intention was to use newer techniques developed for hazy IPAs to accentuate the light, tropical character associated with the style, but marry the quality and consistency that we are known for,” said Brandon Jacobs, brewing manager at Great Divide. “The end result is a drinkable beer that does not fit into the hazy, New-England, West-Coast, or classic styles but offers something fresh, bright, and full of flavor. It’s a modern IPA.”

Snippets from the Colorado craft scene 3/22

Distillery 291’s Flagship Whiskey Claims More National Recognition

The buzz around Distillery 291’s Aspen Stave Finished Colorado Rye Whiskey continues to grow.

After being recognized at The World Whiskies Awards, The San Francisco International Spirits Competition, The Denver International Spirits Competition and several other publications, Distillery 291 was most recently awarded “Best American Rye” by Whisky Magazine.

“This is a true honor,” said Michael Myers, founder of Distillery 291. “It’s a privilege to have our flagship whiskey recognized by the global whiskey elite.”

291 Colorado Rye Whiskey is a small batch rye whiskey that’s aged in white oak for one year before being finished on Colorado aspen staves. With flavors of cinnamon, rye bread, oak and maple, this spirit tastes both unique and traditional.

Colorado Cider Co. Releases Cans of Pearsnickity

Colorado Cider Company has announced that Pearsnickety will be their first of four special release cans in 2018.

“Pearsnickety has been one of our most requested products for cans and we are excited to get it out there,” said sales director Xandy Bustamante. “Made with all Colorado Bartlett Pears, it’s a nice dry, tart drink.”

Bustamante explained that Colorado Cider Co. has seen the craft cider scene continue to grow in Colorado and sales are skyrocketing for cider-makers. He says their limited can releases are meant to bring more of their specialty offerings to a wider audience.

Melvin Brewing vs. WorldBev

If you’ve attended a Melvin tap takeover, experienced GABF the past two years, or had the opportunity to be at the same event as the famous tricked out Melvin bus, you know that Melvin Brewing Co. can throw a party like no other.

Even last year at GABF, the mecca of all beer festivals, Melvin managed to throw a party of their own inside the Convention Center during the largest beer fest in North America. Their next major rager? International 2x4 Day on April 2. According to Melvin’s website, “2x4 is the granddaddy of all things Melvin,” and they are celebrating this Melvin-proclaimed holiday across the world.

This year, International 2x4 Day is about something far bigger than their award-winning DIPA. Not only will they Melvin-ize 47 bars, breweries and taprooms around the world, but 2018 International 2x4 Day is about craft brewers coming together to fight against the fictitious WorldBev, an international beer conglomerate.

Check out the video preview for International 2x4 Day here, which features Melvin’s 2x4 muscle and WWE Hall-of-Famer Hacksaw Jim Duggan taking on WorldBev’s “CEO Hanz Guber-Schmidt” in a battle royale for the record books.

Check below for the list of eight Colorado companies that were selected to participate in International 2x4 Day, all taking place at different times on April 2.

Backcountry Pizza & Tap House — Boulder

Brewer’s Republic — Colorado Springs

The Crafty Fox — Denver

Falling Rock Tap House — Denver

The Jailhouse Craft Beer — Buena Vista

Star Bar — Denver

Romero’s K9 Club & Tap House — Lafayette

Tap and Handle — Fort Collins

Resolute Brewing Co. welcomes new head brewer

After nearly a decade in the California craft brewing industry, Justin Burnsed joined the Colorado brewing team at Resolute Brewing Co. in mid-January. Burnsed has a passion for craft beer with big plans for the Resolute tap wall. “We’re very pleased to welcome Justin to the Resolute family,” said Clifton Oertli, co-founder and partner. “His experience in both micro- and larger craft breweries, plus a propensity for both true-to-style and creative beers, will prove instrumental in Resolute’s growth in the coming years.”

Lone Tree Brewing celebrates Colorado weather with a spring beer

Lone Tree Brewing Co. released Bière de Printemps, a French-inspired seasonal spring ale. The beer features French yeast and yields spicy aromas with citrus notes reminiscent of the aromatics of spring. The Bière de Printemps is the perfect ale to welcome the warmer coming months in Colorado. Get it in bombers while they last.

Bonfire Brewing’s WtFO Double IPA cans get a fresh paint job

The new six-pack releases of WtFO Double IPA were creatively redesigned and set to be released in April. WtFO is named after WFO, a previously unnamed run at Vail Mountain, and with a nod to the experimental nature of the beer, which contains an ever-changing slate of lupulin in all its forms. The debut cans feature summit, citra, Amarillo, and mosaic hop varietals for notes of grapefruit, tropical fruit and tangerine. The new WtFO cans display a dazzling cosmos overlooking a mountain corridor inspired by the beautiful state of Colorado and the spirit of craft experimentation.

Craft Collaboration = More Beer for Everyone

Ska Brewing Co. has taken Telluride Brewing under its wing to distribute their beer in Durango and surrounding areas, and occasionally be a guest on Ska’s tapwall. “We have been enjoying Telluride’s high quality, consistent beer since their start,” says Ska Brewing CEO Dave Thibodeau, “We are stoked to have more of it around, and more excuses to drink beer with our friends from Telluride.”

Snippets from the Colorado craft scene 3/8

Toss this shopping bag into the compost pile

Stardust Sustainables are paving the way for a new, 100% compostable shopping bag that eliminates the plastic bag waste in the world. Each year, eight million metric tons of plastic is discarded into the environment and ocean, where animals mistakenly consume it and fatally suffer. This inspired Stardust Sustainables to create a bag that didn't require anything to be made in a lab; they used raw materials from the environment to develop a sturdy bag made out of the ancient textile, Jute. Jute grows without the use of fertilizers and pesticides and only relies on rainfall. It also absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen much faster than trees. This makes Jute one of the most sustainable crops on Earth and makes these bags durable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly. Each Stardust bag will eliminate an estimated 1,000 plastic bags in its lifetime, and once it is no longer fully functioning, you can throw it in your garden and watch it sprout into something new.

Snippets from the Colorado craft scene 2/28

Jagged Mountain to Release Five Variations of Gose

Jagged Mountain Craft Brewery will offer up Gose variations of blood orange, wine barrel aged, tequila barrel aged and two special releases on March 9. For $20 a person, you get either four tasters and one pint or two full pints. Both options come with a keepsake glass or limited-edition tulip glass.

The release party is on Friday, March 9, from noon to 11 p.m. at Jagged Mountain Craft Brewery in Denver.

Keepin’ it Funky

Funkwerks has released Ruh Roh!, a limited release, hoppy Belgian-Style red ale that is available on draft only. The malt in Ruh Roh! brings warm, bready flavors, while a late addition of West Coast hops adds fruity characteristics.

Funkwerks also has new merchandise options, including unisex hats and hoodies available for purchase in both their taproom and online store.

With warmer weather on the horizon, Funkwerks has also teased locals by putting their Pineapple Provincial, Dry Hopped Provincial and Apricot Provincial on sale in the taproom. Regularly $11 for a four-pack, they are on sale for $6.

Get Your Tickets for Telluride Blues and Brews

March 1 marks the first day of ticket sales for the 25th Annual Telluride Blues and Brews Festival. Happening the weekend of Sept. 14-16, this festival is three days of beer, music and camping.

Limited quantities are available for Early Bird 3-Day, VIP Passes, 4-Day Camping, Campground Vehicle, RV Passes, and the Fundraiser Dinner for Music Maker Relief Foundation (includes VIP Pass).

Odyssey Beerwerks to Host Fundraiser for Their Beertender

Allie B. is a superstar beertender at Odyssey Beerwerks and yogi extraordinaire. With some recent medical challenges, she hasn’t been able to work. So, on Thursday, March 1, Odyssey Owner Chris Hill and Taproom Chief Jeremy Sisco will tend bar and donate 100 percent of their earned tips to Allie. In addition to helping Allie with her medical expenses, you get to heckle the bosses as they pour beer.

If these aren't good enough reasons to spend the evening at Odyssey, it’s also Vinyl Night and El Turkito food truck will be parked out front, so bring your vinyl to enjoy while eating some Turkish-Mexican fusion.

SAMPLES Claims Colorado’s Great American Beer Bar

The readers at Craftbeer.com were asked to nominate their favorite craft beer bar in their state and fill out a short survey about what makes it so great. Atmosphere, staff, beer variety and events were taken into consideration and more than 7,700 votes were cast from November 2017- January 2018.

As featured on the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, SAMPLES in Longmont claimed Colorado’s Great American Beer Bar.

“The Great American Beers Bars, selected by nearly 8,000 individual nominations cast by CraftBeer.com readers, are each stewards of quality craft beer and beer service,” said Jess Baker, editor in chief, CraftBeer.com. “These outstanding beer bars, taprooms and brewpubs introduce their customers to new and exciting beer experiences, and have been integral to the success of the independent craft brewing movement.”

Snippets from the Colorado craft scene 2/22

Upslope releases Coffee Brown Ale as part of Taproom Series

Every Month, Boulder-based Upslope Brewing Co. releases a new beer as part of their Taproom Series. The brewers as Upslope select what type of beer to brew each month and February’s Taproom Series release is Coffee Brown Ale, brewed with coffee beans from another Boulder company, Ozo Coffee Co. Past Taproom Series releases have included a Peanut Butter Porter, Mexican Chocolate Stout and other flavor profiles.

Station 26 Juicy Banger in sixers

Station 26 is now releasing their popular Juicy Banger IPA in canned six-packs. This beer is 7.4% ABV and brewed with Centennial, Citra, and Mosaic hops that yield flavors reminiscent of apricots, papaya and honey. Juicy Banger was released in 2014 and has won several awards, becoming one of the brewery’s staple IPAs. “We are excited to share our flagship beer with friends new and old,” says Justin Baccary, founder.

Banded Oak Brewing Co. releases later winter lager

Branded Oak Brewing just released their French Lager Bièr Ambrée, a late winter lager that pays tribute to the traditional French Bièr de Mars -- brewed in the month of March by French farmers for easy consumption in late winter or spring. The Bièr Ambrée is 7% ABV with a solid malt body, subtle farmhouse character and a touch of dryness. This beer is guaranteed to keep you warm in the upcoming winter weeks.

Epic Brewing:

Save the date! On Feb. 27, Epic Brewing is hosting a three-course beer and dinner pairing at Parry’s Pizzeria in Highlands Ranch. You will see, and better yet, taste some of Epic’s beers such as the Los Locos Mexican-style lager and Tart and Juicy paired with Parry’s appetizers, pizzas and cannolis. Dinner starts at 5 p.m. and runs all night and the cost is $35 per person. If you love pizza and craft beer, then plan ahead for an evening of fun and flavor.

Snippets from the Colorado craft scene 2/1

Laws Whiskey Tasting at the Corner Office

Tickets to the Laws Whiskey Tasting at The Corner Office are selling quickly. For $50 per person, you will receive a whiskey cocktail, four whiskey tastings, five food stations and the chance to meet the Laws distillers.

The event will run from 6:30-9:30 p.m. February 8, at The Corner Office Restauraunt + Martini Bar, 1401 Curtis St.

Greeley’s Syntax Precision Spirits Freshens Up.

Syntax Precision Spirits recently rebranded and introduced two new spirits. “Heavy Rum and Rose Gin are the newest members of our Precision Spirits lineup, which also includes Crystal Vodka and Straight Bourbon Whiskey,” according to a press release. The new branding features a minimalistic and much more refined approach. “Matte white labels with embossed lettering are accompanied by molecular structures, one for each spirit, that is an actual representation of a molecule found in that spirit.”

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Ska Releases Rue B. Soho, a Bright & Crisp Grapefruit Lager

Ska Brewing is set to release its Rue B. Soho, a lager brewed with grapefruit and cascade hops that weighs in at 5.1 percent ABV. This marks Ska’s first new release for 2018, and it’s their only new release to be distributed to all of Ska’s markets this year.

“This beer has seen enormous success in our tasting room this past year,” said Kristen Muraro, director of sales and marketing at Ska. “It would be nothing short of selfish not to share it with the world, or at least our friends in the 10 other states we’re distributed in.”

Rue B. Soho shares the same yeast strain as Ska Brewing Co.’s award-winning Mexican Logger, which according to Muraro, is the secret to showcasing the Ruby Red citrus and the classic grapefruit character of Cascade hops within this brew.

“At first your nose is treated to the aroma of bright and crisp citrus, followed by a tart and light taste of grapefruit juice and carbonation on your tongue,” said Muraro. “It’s lightly acidulated, and at only 20 IBU’s, it is incredibly refreshing.”

There will be a release party on Friday, January 26 at Ska’s Durango World Headquarters starting at 5 p.m., headlined by music from Buster’s Ghost. This will also be the first day Rue B. Soho will be available in 6-packs of 12-ounce cans.

Call to Arms Eager to Introduce Majestic Wolf Lamp

On Thursday, Feb. 1, Call to Arms will tap and release Majestic Wolf Lamp, an oak-aged blended Belgian sour with blackcurrants that is inspired by the majestic wolf lamp scene in the movie Step Brothers. With notes of boysenberry, blackcurrant and candied cherry, this brew is reminiscent of farmstand blackberry jam that offers a pronounced sour finish and slight sweetness.

“In the past, we’ve made blended sours and wild ales that were good but we’ve never been this excited about one,” said Chris Bell, owner and co-founder of Call to Arms Brewing Co. “We were able to revisit these beers and experiment with the addition of blackcurrants to create an interesting and complex sour that can stand on its own.”

This limited sour will be available both on draft and for purchase in 375 ml bottles at Call to Arms, 4526 Tennyson St., starting at 3 p.m. Feb. 1. The brewery will only release 125 bottles, which will cost $12 and be limited to two per person. To celebrate the occasion, Call to Arms designed branded Teku glasses, which will be available for $10 each.

Ski Powderhorn for Meadery Discounts

Meadery of the Rockies sends word that folks hitting the slopes at Powderhorn Ski Resort will get a 15-20 percent discount at the Meadery in nearby Palisade. Simply bring your day pass or season pass, respectively, within 48 hours after visiting the resort.

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Let the Collabs Begin

Breweries have started gathering to brew their collab beers for the fifth annual Collaboration Fest, which takes place on March 31 at the Hyatt Regency Downtown Denver.

Earlier this week, a member of the Thirst Colorado team attended the brew day with Baere Brewing Co. and Mockery Brewing at the latter's brewery. This marks the fourth year the two breweries have gotten together to create a tasty brew for the fest. Both Denver breweries have been open for about four years.

This year, they brewed Intercontinental When I Eat French Toast, an imperial breakfast stout that was inspired by lyrics from the Beastie Boys song, “The Move.”

Keynotes set for Craft Brewers Conference

Paul Saginaw, an owner and founding partner at Zingerman's, will join Deborah Carey, founder and president of New Glarus Brewing Co. as keynote speakers at the 2018 Craft Brewers Conference in Nashville. With more than 13,000 attendees, the CBC is the industry’s largest gathering, according to the Brewers Association, which presents the conference. The World Beer Cup is also held during the conference, which is set for April 30 to May 3.

Great Divide releases Mexican Chocolate Stout

January 20 marks the first 2018 release of Great Divide’s Local Knowledge Series with its Mexican Chocolate Yeti. A one-off of Yeti Imperial Stout, the Mexican Chocolate Yeti boasts Choloca liquid cacao, as well as varieties of spices, vanilla and notes of coffee that are meant to invoke tastes of hot chocolate. Great Divide created the Local Knowledge Series as a limited series that is only available at the Great Divide Taproom and Barrel Bar. This beer will be available on draft and in 6-packs to-go at both of Great Divide’s locations in Denver beginning at noon Jan. 20.

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Hit the Trail

The Colorado Spirits Trail at the Hearts & Trails Spirits Festival is set for Saturday, Feb. 24. If you enjoy a variety of spirits and cocktails, don’t miss the shindig featuring more than 40 distilleries. Also, attendees will learn more about the Colorado Spirits Trail, which directs folks to distilleries around the state. The festival will from 3-7 p.m. at Mile High Station, 2027 W. Colfax Ave., in Denver. The cost is $50-$75.

Tour Metro’s New Brewing Program

Just in time for the spring semester, Metropolitan State University has upgraded its Brewing Industry Operations program. Take a video tour of the new facility as the director of brewing industry operations program, Scott Kerkmans, gives MSU president Janine Davidson a tour, and explains how MSU Denver is among the first universities in the country to base their brewing program out of the hospitality program, rather than science program.

Molly’s has the Spirit

Molly’s Spirits in Lakeside sent word that selling liquor is just the beginning of being a good business neighbor. Among Molly’s charitable donations for 2017:

- “Molly’s supported 125 charities and nonprofits this year. From Cards for Kids and the Oskar Blues Can’d Aid to Habitat and Humanity and Life is Better Rescue, Molly’s was proud to support these organizations and many more through silent auction items, gift cards, product, discounts, and in-kind donations.

- “Molly’s donated $18,600 through silent auction items, gift cards, product, discounts, and in-kind donations.

- “In addition, Molly’s raised $16,500 for Family Tree through their Annual Rare Whiskey Auction. By tapping into industry contacts to access rare and sought-after spirits such as Pappy Van Winkle, Molly’s was able to crush their goal amount this year.”

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Pint for a Pint Blood Drive set at Resolute

Resolute Brewing Co. is hosting a Children’s Hospital Colorado mobile blood drive on Thursday, Feb. 1, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. After donating a pint to the blood drive, each person will receive a card to redeem for a free pint of beer. “Interested patrons are encouraged to make an appointment online and read through the eligibility and preparation instructions,” according to a Resolute press release.

Dreaming of Fruity Beers?

Living the Dream Brewing Co. sends word that they have some fruity concoctions on the docket. Here’s a few examples of what’s coming up: Belgian Cherry; Hop Eating Grin DIPA; Barrel Aged Imperial Saison du Miel; Barrel Aged Barley Wine w/ Peaches & Apricots; and Pineapple & Hatch Green Chile. Check with the brewery for release dates.

Crafting Since 1931

Speaking of the craft scene, the Colorado Authors’ League will host a free day of reader forums about “everything from book clubs to middle-grade books to chats with authors to novels and poetry and nonfiction,” according to a CAL report. “Fostering the art and craft of authorship since 1931,” the CAL also plans keynotes by state historian Patricia Limerick and bestselling author and CPR contributor Peter Heller. The gathering is scheduled at the main Denver Public Library downtown from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Info: www.cobookfestival.com

Parry’s Pizzeria to Open Eighth Location Monday

Parry's Pizzeria & Bar will open its eighth location on Monday, Jan. 8, in Johnstown. “Much like the other Parry’s locations that have opened over the past couple of years, this location will have 100 craft beers on draft and of course the same award-winning New York-style pizza, wings and calzones, all of which are made fresh, daily,” Parry’s reports. The grand opening party begins at 11 a.m. on Jan. 8 at the new location, 4874 Thompson Pkwy, Johnstown, CO 80534, next to the Scheels sporting goods store.

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Brewtography Project to Release Book

After spending more than five years traveling the state photographing breweries, distilleries and craft-related events, Dustin Hall of the Brewtography Project is ready for his first book release. The 232-page coffee table book features shots from more than 70 breweries, including Avery Brewing Company, Black Project Spontaneous & Wild Ales, Call to Arms Brewing Company, Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project, Ska Brewing Company, Left Hand Brewing Company and many more.

“Photography for me is about capturing the moment,” Hall said. “Maybe it’s the brewer mashing in for the first time or simply someone having a great time at a beer festival. I want to capture the hard work and passion that goes into brewing a beer.”

The book, which will retail for $49.99, is set to release on Saturday, Jan 20. The release party will be held at Falling Rock Tap House, 1919 Blake St., from 1:00-5:00 p.m. where you will have the opportunity to meet Hall and have him sign your copy of the book.

Tax Cut for Small Brewers

There’s nothing controversial about the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act for brewers who will see a tax break: “The federal excise tax on beer will be reduced to $3.50 per barrel (from $7 per barrel) on the first 60,000 barrels for domestic brewers producing less than 2 million barrels annually,” according to the Brewers Association who lobbied for the reduction for the past decade.

“This is a monumental day for small and independent craft brewers,” said Bob Pease,
president and CEO of the Brewers Association. “America’s small, Main Street brewers —6,000 strong and located in every state and virtually every congressional district in the country—are incredibly pleased Congress has recognized that they have great growth potential. Our expectation is that small brewers will use their savings related to the recalibration of the federal excise tax on beer to invest in their breweries, expand their operations, create more jobs and hire more American workers. We are very appreciative that Congress has enacted these bipartisan, strongly supported measures.”

Pizza, Beer and Top Chefs

Pizzeria Locale is hosting a Top Chef watch party Dec. 21 featuring Crooked Stave beer specials at its restaurant in the Highlands, 3484 W. 32nd Ave. Meet Pizzeria Locale’s chef and co-owner Lachlan Mackinnon-Patterson and “watch the episode with him, as he makes his guest judge appearance on this season’s Colorado-based Top Chef, according to a press release. Look for BOGO beers and raffled prizes.

Local Top Chefs Offer Predictions

Feed Media compiled a list of quotes from local chefs as we move into 2018. Here are a few of their thoughts on what we might see in the coming year:

Chef and partner Michael Gibney, Emmerson

“I think next year we’ll be seeing more sea plants—nori, kombu, dulse, wakame. They’re packed with umami, super-healthy, and they add that bit of je ne sais quoi that I’m always after. We’ll see tea used in more culinary applications (brines, marinades, etc.) and I really hope we’ll see a continued revival of ‘surf & turf,’ especially obscure, unexpected sea and land pairings, which are my favorite. Personally, I’ve been revisiting the offal trend—wild-caught hearts, brains, and tongues mostly—and I hope to do some more reimagining of the classics in 2018. Things with archaic French names done with modern techniques. They’re classics for a reason, after all.”

Executive chef and owner Mary Nguyen, Olive & Finch

“In 2018, I anticipate seeing more global, ethnic flavors. Personally, I'm really loving Filipino food right now and have been experimenting with middle eastern spices like harissa, ras el hanout, cardamom and tahini, and I think we’ll see more chefs and restaurants embracing those strong, interesting flavors. I also think we’ll see an expansion in the creative ways we are making our dishes more sustainable and earth-friendly: for example, more attention for our root-to-stem cooking focusing more on vegetables and plant-centric dishes vs. protein-based meals. Finally, another trend I’m seeing is the use of fragrant floral flavors lending food and drinks aroma – I’m thinking about elderflower, lavender and hibiscus in our food and beverages.”

Justin Anderson, director of hospitality development, Zeppelin Station (opening early 2018)

“Over the past decade, the obsession with customization became king, with dozens of choices combining into hundreds of possible menu options, most of which would not have been suggested by the chef. The bulky and confusing lists of choices stifled rather than inspired. In 2018, we’re going to see a rapid rise in single-item or extremely limited-offering menus based on serving the absolute best one or two things that a chef creates.”

Denver Beer Festivus

The Denver [only] Beer Festivus rocked the Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum last Saturday. More than 50 breweries showed up to pour excellent beers to lots of folks wearing awesome (read, ugly) sweaters. Yes, the silent disco helped to keep the evening flying for hundreds of folks searching for the best winter ales in the region.