Bell's Brewery http://bellsbeer.com Bell's Brewery News from Kalamazoo, MI en-us Copyright , Bell's Brewery, Inc. headlines@bellsbeer.com headlines@bellsbeer.com bellsbeer.com News 2011-01-01T00:00-05:00 1 hourly bellsbrewery.com http://bellsbeer.com/files/3912/8387/7822/favicon.ico http://bellsbeer.com Bell's beer event roundup: Multiple dinners, Beer and Brat Festival and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/188-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Multiple%20dinners%2C%20Beer%20and%20Brat%20Festival%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/4513/6905/8507/TerryBs_Menu.jpg" alt="TerryBs_Menu.jpg" height="686" width="417">Below is a look at our events this week in Michigan, Florida, Illinois and Indiana.</p> <h1>Michigan</h1> <h3>May 22</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.fourrosescafe.com/">Four Roses Cafe</a>, Plainwell, 6:30 p.m. - Multi-course dinner featuring Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, Roundhouse IRA and others. Call 269-685-1077 for more information.</p> <p><strong>Bell's Spring Beer Dinner: </strong><a href="http://www.terrybs.com/_index.php">Terry B's</a>, Dexter, 6:30 p.m.&nbsp; – <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=3151">Take a look at the menu.</a></p> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.PBrochester.com">Penny Black,</a> Rochester&nbsp; - Reservations are required for this dinner, but sample flights will be open to everyone. The dinner will feature 7 oz. pours of Oarsman, Raspberry Ale, Sparkling Ale, Roundhouse IRA, Hell Hath No Fury and Hopslam plus a food pairing from the kitchen for each course.</p> <h3>May 23</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s Patio-Palooza:</strong><a href="http://www.nuthousesportsgrill.com"> The Nuthouse Sports Grill,</a> Lansing - Oberon, Two Hearted, Oarsman and Amber</p> <h3>May 25</h3> <p><a href="http://www.crystalmountain.com/beerfest"><strong>8th Annual Beer and Brat Festival:</strong> </a>Crystal Mountain Resort, 3-8 p.m. - Oberon, Two Hearted, Amber, SparklingAle, Black Note and Third Cost Old Ale</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>May 23</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://www.abcfws.com/">ABC Liquor,</a> Orlando, 6-8 p.m.&nbsp;</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>May 24</h3> <p><strong>Two Hearted 3 Ways:</strong> <a href="http://thebeerbistro.com/">The Beer Bistro</a> (North &amp; West Loop), 5:30 p.m. (North), 7:30 p.m. (West Loop) - Sample Two Hearted three different ways: On Draft, in a bottle and from a firkin.</p> <h3>May 26</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Brewery Night: </strong><a href="http://naperville.wobusa.com/">World of Beer,</a> Naperville, 6 p.m. - Oberon, Two Hearted and our entire Jazz Series - Le Batteur, Le Contrebassiste and Le Pianiste</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>May 24</h3> <p><strong>Free Samplings: </strong><a href="http://www.buffalowildwings.com/">Buffalo Wild Wings</a> in La Porte and Michigan City, 6:30-7:30 p.m. - free swag and free Oberon</p> <p><strong>Bell's Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://www.21stamendment.com/">21st Amendment Liquors,</a> Indianapolis, 4-6 p.m. - Year round beers plus Oberon</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p><a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">See what we have planned so far for June.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-05-20T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Multiple dinners, Beer and Brat Festival and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/187-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Multiple%20dinners%2C%20Beer%20and%20Brat%20Festival%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/4513/6905/8507/TerryBs_Menu.jpg" alt="TerryBs_Menu.jpg" height="686" width="417">Below is a look at our events this week in Michigan, Florida and Illinois.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>May 22</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.fourrosescafe.com/">Four Roses Cafe</a>, Plainwell, 6:30 p.m. - Multi-course dinner featuring Bourbon Barrel Batch 9,000, Roundhouse IRA and others. Call 269-685-1077 for more information.</p> <h3>May 22</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Spring Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.terrybs.com/_index.php">Terry B's</a>, Dexter, 6:30 p.m.&nbsp; – <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=3151">Take a look at the menu.</a></p> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.PBrochester.com">Penny Black</a>, Rochester&nbsp; - Reservations are required for this dinner, but sample flights will be open to everyone. The dinner will feature 7 oz. pours of Oarsman, Raspberry Ale, Sparkling Ale, Roundhouse IRA, Hell Hath No Fury and Hopslam plus a food pairing from the kitchen for each course.</p> <h3>May 23</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s Patio-Palooza: </strong><a href="http://www.nuthousesportsgrill.com">The Nuthouse Sports Grill</a>, Lansing - Oberon, Two Hearted, Oarsman and Amber</p> <h3>May 25</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://www.crystalmountain.com/beerfest">8th Annual Beer and Brat Festival:</a></strong> Crystal Mountain Resort, 3-8 p.m.</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>May 23</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://www.abcfws.com/">ABC Liquor</a>, Orlando, 6-8 p.m.&nbsp;</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>May 24</h3> <p><strong>Two Hearted 3 Ways: </strong><a href="http://thebeerbistro.com/">The Beer Bistro </a>(North &amp; West Loop), 5:30 p.m. (North), 7:30 p.m. (West Loop) - Sample Two Hearted three different ways: Draft, bottle and firkin.</p> <h3>May 26</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Brewery Night:</strong> <a href="http://naperville.wobusa.com/">World of Beer, Naperville</a>, 6 p.m. - Oberon, Two Hearted and our entire Jazz Series - Le Batteur, Le Contrebassiste and Le Pianiste</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p><a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">See what we have planned so far for June.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-05-20T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Plenty on tap for American Craft Beer Week http://bellsbeer.com/news/186-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Plenty%20on%20tap%20for%20American%20Craft%20Beer%20Week <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/a49df3bfb619dbc2b07d67e81a721246.jpg" alt="Fuel_2ndAnniversary-01.jpg" height="525" width="342">A look at our events this week in Michigan, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Pennsylvania and Minnesota.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>May 13</h3> <p><strong>Monday Night Slow Jams/Multi-Tap Event:</strong> <a href="http://www.woodbridgepub.com/">Woodbridge Pub</a>, Detroit, 9 p.m. – Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout, Hopslam, Oberon, Porter and Two Hearted</p> <h3>May 13-18</h3> <p><strong>American Craft Beer Week Tap Takeover:</strong> <a href="http://www.millenniumrestaurants.com/central-city-tap-house/">Central City Tap House</a>, Kalamazoo - On tap throughout the week: Black Note, Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9000, Raspberry Ale, Kal-Haven Ale, Roundhouse IRA, Red Nose ESB, Oberon, Two Hearted, Amber, Oarsman, Midwestern Pale Ale, Le Contrebassiste, Le Pianiste and a firkin of Amber.</p> <h3>May 16</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.sophies-steakhouse.com/">Sophie's Steakhouse</a>, South Haven, 6:30 p.m. &nbsp;- Four courses each paired with a different beer - Oarsman Ale, Two Hearted Ale, Kalamazoo Stout and Raspberry Ale. Take a look at the menu.</p> <p><strong>2nd Anniversary Party:</strong> <a href="http://www.fuelwoodfiregrill.com/">Fuel Wood-fire Grill</a>, Port Huron, 5 p.m. - Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, Hopslam, Two Hearted, Sparkling Ale, Consecrator Doppelbock, Smitten Golden Rye, Oberon, Hell Hath No Fury, and a firkin of Amber Ale. (Image at left.)</p> <h3>May 17-18</h3> <p><a href="http://www.worldexpoofbeer.com/expo/"><strong>2013 World Expo of Beer:</strong></a> Heritage Park, Frankenmuth - We'll be pouring Oberon, Two Hearted, Oarsman, Amber Ale, Black Note and one other surprise specialty beer.</p> <h3>May 18</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover:</strong> FireRock Grille, Caledonia, 5 p.m. - Live music, samplers and 8 different beers on tap: Black Note, Hell Hath No Fury, Oberon, Quinannan Falls Special Lager, Raspberry Ale, Smitten, Two Hearted and This one goes to 11</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>May 17</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://jacksonvillearena.org/">Jacksonville Craft and Import Beer Festival,</a></strong> 6-10 p.m. - Sample more than 300 beers from more than 45 different breweries. Several local restaurants will be there to serve up great food to pair with the wide selection of beer and live entertainment.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>May 16</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.chapinsrestaurant.us/">Chapin's Restaurant,</a> Morris, 6:30 p.m. - Five course dinner paired with four different Bell's beers. Call 815-942-1880 for more information.</p> <p>May 19</p> <p><strong>Michigan Tap Takeover:</strong> <a href="http://owlbarchicago.com/">The Owl</a>, Chicago, 7 p.m. - Raspberry Ale, Black Note, Double Cream Stout and Quinannan Falls Special Lager</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>May 16</h3> <p><strong>American Craft Beer Week Tapping:</strong><a href="http://www.downtowneaterywarsaw.com/"> The Downtown Eatery &amp; Spirits,</a> Warsaw, 7 p.m. &nbsp;- Celebrate American Craft Beer Week with Oberon, Two Hearted, Roundhouse IRA and Lager of the Lakes.</p> <h3>May 17</h3> <p><strong>American Craft Beer Week Outdoor (Free) Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://capncork.com/">Cap N' Cork,</a> Fort Wayne, 5-7 p.m.</p> <h3>May 18</h3> <p><strong>Beoir Go Leoir Festival:</strong> <a href="http://jkodonnells.com/">JK O'Donnell's Irish Ale House,</a> Fort Wayne, 1-6 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Bluegrass &amp; Bell's:</strong> <a href="http://www.themousetrapbar.com/">The Mousetrap</a>, Indianapolis, 8 p.m. - 5 Bell's beers on tap including the last keg of The Oracle in the state of Indiana, Roundhouse IRA, Two Hearted, Oberon and Special Double Cream Stout</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>May 13</h3> <p><strong>Black Note Flights - Lexington Beer Week:</strong> <a href="http://www.thebeertrappe.com/">The Beer Trappe,</a> Lexington, 4 p.m. &nbsp;- The Beer Trappe will kick-off the first Lexington Beer Week starting at 4 p.m. on May 13 with Expedition Stout and Special Double Cream Stout on tap along with bottles of Black Note for special flights.</p> <h2>Pennsylvania</h2> <h3>May 18</h3> <p><a href="http://pintsforpets.com/"><strong>Pints for Pets 2013: </strong></a>People's Natural Gas Field, Altoona, 1-4 p.m. &amp; 6-9 p.m. - Come out and support the Central Pennsylvania Humane Society at the 6th Annual Pints for Pets Brewfest! Over 75 breweries will be present and Bell's will be there in full effect! 100% of the ticket proceeds will go to the Central Pennsylvania Humane Society. Tickets can be purchased online in advance.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>May 13</h3> <p><strong>Beer, Jazz and Dancing - American Craft Beer Week: </strong><a href="http://www.republicmn.com/">Republic Seven Corners, Minneapolis</a> - In celebration of American Craft Beer Week, we're releasing three varieties of our acclaimed Jazz Beer: Le Contrebassiste, Le Batteur &amp; Le Pianiste.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>We’re hosting beer dinners in Michigan, &nbsp;pouring beer at the <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=3100">8th Annual Beer and Brat Festival</a> and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look at our full calendar.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-05-13T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Kalamazoo Bike Week events include a Bell's to Bell's ride and special screening of 'Rising from Ashes' http://bellsbeer.com/news/185-Kalamazoo%20Bike%20Week%20events%20include%20a%20Bell%27s%20to%20Bell%27s%20ride%20and%20special%20screening%20of%20%27Rising%20from%20Ashes%27 <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/010599d7f8c657c2e2134f2ae0178fdc.jpg" alt="Bells2BellsPoster-01.jpg" height="459" width="298">Kalamazoo Bike Week kicks-off on May 9 and to celebrate, we have two events planned at the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Café</a>.</p> <p>The first is also part of the Kalamazoo Bicycle Film Festival and will feature a screening of “Rising from Ashes.”</p> <p>The synopsis:</p> <p><em>“Rising from Ashes” is a feature length documentary about two worlds colliding when cycling legend Jock Boyer moves to Rwanda, Africa to help a group of struggling genocide survivors pursue their dream of a national team. As they set out against impossible odds both Jock and the team find new purpose as they rise from the ashes of their past.</em></p> <p>Admission is $5 and it will be shown at 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. (for those 21 and up) on May 14.</p> <p>Money raised from ticket sales will go to Team Rwanda (cash or check please). <a href="https://risingfromashesthemovie.com/">Check out the trailer.</a></p> <p>The other event – <strong>a Bell’s to Bell’s Bike Ride</strong> – will be held on Saturday, May 18. Registration will begin at 12:30 p.m. and at 1 p.m., we’ll ride from the Café to our Comstock Brewery for a tour.</p> <p>We’ll then head back to the pub for drinks, a raffle and socializing.</p> <p>Suggested donation is $10 and all proceeds will go to support the <a href="http://www.kalamazoorivervalleytrail.com/">Kalamazoo River Valley Trail (KRVT)</a> extension.</p> <p>Be sure to bring your ID, a bike lock and a helmet.</p> <p>Kalamazoo Bike Week aims to raise cycling awareness, promote the use of cycling as a means of transportation and explore the possibilities cycling has to offer in terms of enjoyment, health, fitness, and social and environmental benefits.</p> <p>For more on Kalamazoo Bike Week 2013, <a href="http://kalamazoobikeweek.com/">go here.</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-05-08T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Jazz at Foran's, Michigan Cask Ale Festival and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/184-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Jazz%20at%20Foran%27s%2C%20Michigan%20Cask%20Ale%20Festival%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/9013/6734/9869/michigancaskfest.jpg" alt="michigancaskfest.jpg" height="286" width="286">Below is a look at our events this week in Michigan and Florida.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>May 1</h3> <p><strong>Tigers ... And All That Jazz:</strong> <a href="http://www.grandtrunkpub.com">Foran's Grand Trunk Pub</a>, Detroit, 3 p.m. &nbsp;– Live jazz, 10 Bell's beers on tap including the ever-popular jazz series (Le Batteur, Le Pianiste and Le Contrebassiste) along with Quinannan Falls Special Lager, Roundhouse IRA, 2011 Cherry Stout, Hell Hath No Fury, &nbsp;Oarsman Ale,&nbsp; Oberon and Two Hearted</p> <h3>May 2</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Brewery Night: </strong><a href="http://mysagebrushcantina.com/">Sagebrush Cantina</a>, Lake Orion, 6 p.m. – Along with a firkin of Porter, Oberon, Two Hearted, Amber, Oarsman, Hopslam, Midwestern Pale Ale, Hell Hath No Fury, Quinannan Falls Special Lager, Sweet Potato Stout (7 p.m.), Roundhouse IRA and Black Note (8 p.m.) will be available.</p> <h3>May 4</h3> <p><strong>6th Annual Michigan Cask Ale Festival:</strong> <a href="http://www.ashleys.com/">Ashley's Westland</a>, Noon - 8 p.m. - More than 30 firkins of real ale will be tapped at this event including Hopslam, Porter and Two Hearted.</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>May 1</h3> <p><strong>Four Play Beer Dinner: </strong><a href="http://www.craveamerica.com/">CRAVE,</a> Orlando, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Four courses plus a meet and great with four brewery reps including us, Breckenridge, Cigar City and Shipyard. Call 407-345-8788 for more information.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for a tap takeover in New Buffalo, Michigan, the World Expo of Beer, an outdoor tasting in Fort Wayne and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2">Take a look at our full calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-04-30T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell’s will be arriving at Grand Rapids airport this summer http://bellsbeer.com/news/183-Bell%E2%80%99s%20will%20be%20arriving%20at%20Grand%20Rapids%20airport%20this%20summer <p>GRAND RAPIDS – Bell’s is bringing the look and feel of the<a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/"> Eccentric Café</a> in downtown Kalamazoo to the <a href="http://www.grr.org/">Gerald R. Ford International Airport</a> in Grand Rapids.</p> <p>While the beer list is still being determined, a selection of year round, seasonal and specialty Bell’s beers will be offered along with a food menu that will focus on local ingredients and reflect the taste of the Eccentric Cafe.</p> <p>“We think it will be a great opportunity to share Michigan’s beer culture and passion with visitors to our state,” said Laura Bell, Bell’s Marketing Director.</p> <p>The new Bell’s Bar will be located in the airport’s pre-security area, currently Home Turf, so visitors will be able to visit without purchasing a ticket.</p> <p>We are working on the design process now and a tentative opening is scheduled for late summer, Bell said.</p> <p>Bell’s is working with Maryland-based <a href="http://www.hmshost.com/" target="_blank">HMSHost</a>, who received the contract for the renovation of the airport’s main hall as well as concourse retail, food and beverage options.</p> <p>Bell’s beer will also be served in the Great Lakes Tap Room planned for Concourse B.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-04-25T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Pittsburgh Craft Beer Week, tequilia, Toast, cornhole and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/182-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Pittsburgh%20Craft%20Beer%20Week%2C%20tequilia%2C%20Toast%2C%20cornhole%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/1513/6665/0145/BellsandBags.jpg" alt="BellsandBags.jpg" height="459" width="347">Below is a look at our events this week in Michigan, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>April 25</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.toastbirmingham.com/">Toast</a>, Birmingham, 7 p.m. - Amber Ale, Black Note, Cherry Stout, Oberon, Two Hearted and Vienna Smoked Lager. Call 248-258-6278 for tickets.</p> <p><strong>Beer &amp; Tequila Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.casabolerokzoo.com/">Casa Bolero</a>, Kalamazoo, 6 p.m. (doors), 6:30 p.m. (dinner) – Midwestern Pale Ale, Two Hearted, Third Coast Beer, Amber and Oberon. For more information,<a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2889"> go here.</a></p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>April 25</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night:</strong> <a href="http://wobusa.com/Locations/Viera.aspx">World of Beer- Veira,</a> Melbourne, 6-10 p.m. &nbsp;- Amber Ale, Best Brown Ale, Java Stout, Midwestern Pale Ale, Oberon, Sparkling Ale, Special Double Cream Stout, Third Coast Old Ale and Two Hearted</p> <h2>Indiana &nbsp;</h2> <h3>April 26</h3> <p><strong>Craft Beer Open House: </strong><a href="http://wiseguysliquors.com/">Wise Guys Liquors</a>, Merrillville, 6-8 p.m. - Wise Guys' limited craft beer lottery will be at 5:30 p.m.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>April 27</h3> <p><strong>Bell's &amp; Boards: </strong>The Nash, Slavic Village, 1 p.m. - A 32 team corn hole tournament with plenty of Bell's prizes, swag and Oberon.</p> <h2>Pennsylvania</h2> <h3>April 24</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://pittsburghcraftbeerweek.com/">Pittsburgh Craft Beer Week</a> - Bell's Night:</strong> <a href="http://poorrichardsalehouse.com/">The Wexford Ale House</a>, Wexford - A special firkin of Bell's Porter plus Le Contrebassiste and Special Double Cream Stout on draft.</p> <h3>April 25</h3> <p><strong>Pittsburgh Craft Beer Week - Tap Takeover: </strong><a href="http://www.bluedustpgh.com/">Blue Dust,</a> Homestead, 7 p.m. &nbsp;- We are teaming up with <a href="https://www.troegs.com/">Troegs Brewing Co. </a>to take over the taps with selections from both breweries. A keg of Barrel Aged Batch 9000 will be a part of the festivities.</p> <p><strong>Pittsburgh Craft Beer Week - Bell's Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://www.beerexpressisbest.com/">Beer Express</a>, Pittsburgh, 4-6 p.m. &nbsp;</p> <h3>April 26</h3> <p><strong>Pittsburgh Craft Beer Week - CWP Beer Barge, Gateway Clipper,</strong> 6-9:30 p.m. &amp; 10 p.m.-1:30 a.m. - 2 sessions, 3 hours, 3 bands and more craft beer than you've ever seen floating up three rivers aboard the Gateway Clipper! Call 412-431-4207 for more information.</p> <h2>Wisconsin</h2> <h3>April 22</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.wolf-peach.com/">Wolf Peach</a>, Milwaukee, 6 p.m.&nbsp; - Oarsman Ale, Raspberry Ale, Midwestern Pale Ale, Red Nose ESB and Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9000.<a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=3118"> Check out the menu here</a>.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Take a look at what we have coming up in May. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Our full event calendar can be found here</a>.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-04-22T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Hockeytown BrewHaHa, Hopslam, Pittsburgh Craft Beer Week and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/181-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Hockeytown%20BrewHaHa%2C%20Hopslam%2C%20Pittsburgh%20Craft%20Beer%20Week%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/2660d2dd3ac808976bc0a06cebc2b10a.jpg" alt="HopfestBeerEngineOhio.jpg" height="405" width="255">Below is a look at our events this week in Michigan, Florida, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>April 18</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer &amp; Cheese Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://thecheeselady.net/">The Cheese Lady</a>, Kalamazoo, 4:30-6 p.m.</p> <h3>April 20</h3> <p><strong>Hockeytown BrewHaHa:</strong> Joe Louis Arena, Detroit, 1-5 p.m. &nbsp;- Black Note, Raspberry Ale, Roundhouse IRA, Hopslam, Two Hearted and Oberon. Ticket includes six beer sample tokens and a Street Eats Passport. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Detroit Red Wings Foundation. For more information, <a href="http://www.olympiaentertainment.com/">go here.</a></p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>April 17</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.datzdeli.com/">Datz Deli,</a> Tampa, 6 p.m.</p> <h3>April 16</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Spotlight:</strong> Social on Fourth, St. Petersburg, 6-9 p.m. &nbsp;- Amber Ale, 2011 Cherry Stout, Expedition Stout, Midwestern Pale Ale, Oberon, Sparkling Ale and Two Hearted</p> <h2>Ohio &nbsp;</h2> <h3>April 19- 21</h3> <p><strong>7th Annual 420 Hopfest:</strong> <a href="http://buckeyebeerengine.com/">Buckeye Beer Engine</a>, Lakewood, All day - Two Hearted, Hopslam and Roundhouse IRA</p> <h3>April 20</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://www.eventbrite.com/event/4944269443">4th Annual Big Tap In:</a></strong> Shepherd Event Center, Youngstown, 1 p.m. (VIP) &amp; 3 p.m. (general admission)</p> <h2>Pennsylvania</h2> <h3>April 19</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover:</strong> <a href="http://www.thebeermuda.com/">The Beermuda</a>, New Kensington, 5 p.m. &nbsp;- Two Hearted, Oberon, Special Double Cream Stout, Hell Hath No Fury, Expedition Stout AND Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000</p> <p><strong><a href="http://pittsburghcraftbeerweek.com/">Pittsburgh Craft Beer Week</a> - 6th Annual Brewer's Ball:</strong> IBEW Circuit Center, Pittsburgh</p> <h3>April 20</h3> <p><strong>Pittsburgh Craft Beer Week Brunch:</strong> Village Shoppes of Cranberry, 11 a.m. - Space is limited. Call 724-741-5656 for more information.</p> <p><strong>Pittsburgh Craft Beer Week - Real Ale Fest: </strong>Highmark Stadium, Pittsburgh &nbsp;- The inaugural PCBW Real Ale Fest helps kick off Pittsburgh Beer Week in style.</p> <h2>Wisconsin</h2> <h3>April 18</h3> <p><strong>Firkin Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.graystonealehouse.com/">Graystone Ale House</a>, De Pere, 5 p.m. - Along with a firkin of Two Hearted, Graystone will also feature Oberon, Oarsman, Pale Ale and Two Hearted on draft.</p> <h3>April 19</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover:</strong> <a href="http://hagemeisterpark.com/">Hagemeister Park</a>, Green Bay, 11 a.m. - close &nbsp;- Seven Bell's beers on tap. Our Rep. will be there to answer questions and talk about all things Bell's from 6-9 p.m.</p> <h3>April 22</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.wolf-peach.com/">Wolf Peach</a>, Milwaukee, 6 p.m. - Oarsman Ale, Raspberry Ale, &nbsp;Midwestern Pale Ale, Red Nose ESB and Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9000 – take a look at the menu.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Mark your calendars for a beer dinner at Toast in Birmingham, tequila pairings in Kalamazoo, more Pittsburgh Craft Beer Week events and more. For more details, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">go here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-04-15T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Under the Radar Michigan film crew stops by the Eccentric Cafe http://bellsbeer.com/news/180-Under%20the%20Radar%20Michigan%20film%20crew%20stops%20by%20the%20Eccentric%20Cafe <p><img style="display: block; margin: 10px auto; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/0831b7ac37d1a639ff0edc7152491f47.jpg" alt="SarkozyFilming.jpg" height="444" width="667">The crew from <a href="http://www.utrmichigan.com/">Under the Radar Michigan</a> dropped by the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Cafe</a> last week to interview our own Laura Bell and film for an upcoming episode that will debut later this summer.</p> <p>The thirty-minute show, now in its third season, explores the best of Michigan and airs on PBS outlets in the Great Lakes region.</p> <p>Episode 323 will also feature locations in Milford along with those here in Kalamazoo.</p> <p>Other locations visited for the Kalamazoo portion of the episode include <a href="http://www.thekalamazoohouse.com/">Kalamazoo House Bed &amp; Breakfast</a>, <a href="http://fooddance.net/">Food Dance</a> and others.</p> <p><strong>Photo caption:</strong> UTR host Tom Daldin talks with Judy Sarkozy.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-04-15T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Bingo, Oberon, Michigan Craft Beer Night and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/179-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Bingo%2C%20Oberon%2C%20Michigan%20Craft%20Beer%20Night%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/fb0b6bc85a14f1bfe158b7bd5ada34f5.jpg" alt="WurstBar2.jpg" height="403" width="261">Below is a look at our events this week in Michigan, Alabama, Florida and Indiana.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>April 9</h3> <p><strong>Bell's and Bingo: </strong><a href="http://www.wurstbarypsi.com/">The Wurst Bar</a>, Ypsilanti, 4 p.m. - Our Jazz Series (Le Batteur, Le Pianiste, and Le Contrabassiste), Quinnanan Falls Special Lager, Oberon and Oarsman. Stick around for bingo and the chance to win some Bell's prizes.</p> <h3>April 10</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.uccellos.com/">Uccello's</a>, Caledonia - Seating is limited to 50 people and reservations are required. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=3038">Check out the menu.</a></p> <h3>April 12</h3> <p><strong>Michigan Craft Beer Night:</strong> The Palace of Auburn Hills, 6-7:30 p.m. - Join us, along with other Michigan breweries, for Michigan Craft Beer Night as the Detroit Pistons take on the Charlotte Bobcats. We'll be pouring Two Hearted and Oberon. Ticket price includes game ticket, ten 2-oz. beer tastings and light appetizers. Club 300 offers a great bird's eye view of the court and plenty of space to socialize before, during and after the game. For more information, visit <a href="http://pistons.com/craftbeer">pistons.com/craftbeer</a>.</p> <h2>Alabama</h2> <h3>April 9</h3> <p><strong>Oberon Release Party:</strong> <a href="http://btrbrew.wordpress.com/">Below the Radar</a>, Huntsville, 6 p.m.</p> <h3>April 10</h3> <p><strong>Oberon Release Party: </strong><a href="http://www.alcovetavern.com/">Alcove International Tavern</a>, Tuscaloosa, 6 p.m.</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>April 12</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://pettysmeatmarket.com/">Petty's Meat Market</a>, Melbourne, 5-8 p.m. - Amber, Best Brown, Oberon and Two Hearted</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>April 10</h3> <p><strong>Multi-tap Event: </strong><a href="http://www.jkodonnells.com/">JK O'Donnell's Irish Ale House</a>, Fort Wayne, 5 p.m. - 10 Bell's beers on tap including the only keg of Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout in northeast Indiana</p> <h3>April 13</h3> <p><strong>2013 Blue Chip Casino Brewfest:</strong> <a href="http://www.bluechipcasino.com/">Blue Chip Casino</a>, Michigan City, noon - 4:30 p.m. - Sample from at least 200 craft and imported beers from over 40 breweries. We will be featuring a few special treats as well as a Two Hearted firkin for the VIP session.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>We have quite a few events planned for Pittsburgh Craft Beer Week, a beer and tequila dinner in Kalamazoo and more coming up. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-04-08T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell’s Brewery to present Kalamazoo Pride 2013, debut new beer http://bellsbeer.com/news/178-Bell%E2%80%99s%20Brewery%20to%20present%20%20Kalamazoo%20Pride%202013%2C%20debut%20new%20beer <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/d181bc43150b1a3bada71e83db4ea677.jpg" alt="PrideLogo_400px.jpg" height="252" width="252">KALAMAZOO—Event goers celebrating diversity at the <a href="http://www.kglrc.org/pride">6<sup>th</sup> annual Kalamazoo Pride</a> event will be able to raise a glass of Bell’s beer while dancing and singing to an entertainment lineup headlined by Chicago-based Kimi Hayes, back by popular demand.</p> <p>This year’s event, presented by Bell’s Brewery, Inc., will span two days, beginning with a White Party at 5 p.m. on Friday, June 14, where everyone is encouraged to dress in all white. The main event is Saturday, June 15, starting at 2 p.m., with more than 75 vendors, food trucks, and plenty of cold beverage options to keep the fun going all afternoon. Visitors can browse through ‘vendor alley’ and listen to live music including a DJ, Hannaniah and the Boys and <a href="http://kimihayesmusic.com/">Kimi Hayes</a>.</p> <p>Bell’s will also debut a new beer at this year’s Pride – Sparkleberry – a blend of Sparkling Ale and Raspberry Ale.</p> <p>&nbsp;“Diversity is a vital component of our philosophy and this event reflects that as well as our continued support of organizations that work to strengthen our community and bring people together,” said Laura Bell, Marketing Director and co-owner of Bell’s Brewery.</p> <p>With a continuously-expanding event like this, Kalamazoo Pride is pleased to have achieved the excellence and professionalism that businesses like Bell’s aim to be associated with, said Zachary Bauer, Executive Director of the Kalamazoo Gay Lesbian Resource Center, the organization that coordinates Kalamazoo Pride.</p> <p>“We are tremendously pleased to welcome such a wonderful local company as presenting sponsor. It is clear to us that Bell’s investment in our LGBT community is sending a message that things must change and that diversity is no longer an option but a must!” added Bauer.</p> <p>Last year, 11,000 people descended on the Arcadia Creek Festival Site in downtown Kalamazoo for Pride, the largest fundraiser of the year for the KGLRC.</p> <p>“This year, Kalamazoo Pride 2013 has expanded to an entire weekend of celebrating diversity, complete with Friday and Saturday events, including some that are still in the planning stages, as well as a post-Pride bunch,” shares Bauer. “We plan to deliver a weekend full of community events, highlighting the diversity, accomplishments, contributions to society and entertainment by and for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals as well as their friends, families and allies.</p> <p>The popular ‘vendor alley’ will feature affirming and inclusive organizations and businesses as well as tempting food and beverage vendors from all over Southwest Michigan. Additionally, family friendly-activities will take place in and near the youth tent area, including a speaker from TruthLocker who will discuss issues and solutions related to cyber bullying.</p> <p>Kalamazoo Pride is offering a two-day admission pass for $10, or separate cover charges are $5 for Friday and $7 to enter on Saturday. Kids 12 and under are free.</p> <p>“All Kalamazoo Pride events seek to show that we’re proud of who we are and that we can all stand together as part of the greater Southwest Michigan community, regardless of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, gender orientation or socioeconomic status,” says Bauer.</p> <p>Full details and entertainment schedules for Kalamazoo Pride can be found at <a href="http://www.kglrc.org/pride">www.kglrc.org/pride.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-04-08T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Oberon, bowling, baseball and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/177-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Oberon%2C%20bowling%2C%20baseball%20and%20more <p style="text-align: left;"><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/0f95c44b23e4cdf47570cd289c50bdf4.jpg" alt="RootBeerDinner040213.jpg" height="614" width="401">Below is a look at events this week in Michigan, Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Georgia.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>April 2</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> The Root, White Lake, 6:30 p.m. – <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2905">Take a look at the menu here (image at right).</a></p> <h3>April 3</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tap Explosion:</strong> L<a href="http://lilbo.com/">ittle Bohemia</a>, Traverse City, 7 p.m. - Oberon, Two Hearted, Quinannan Falls Special Lager, Hell Hath No Fury and Amber Ale. Best spring break short or hat gets a prize.</p> <h3>April 5</h3> <p><strong>Opening Day Party:</strong> <a href="http://www.buffalowildwings.com/">Buffalo Wild Wings</a>, Detroit, 8 a.m. - Celebrate opening day in Detroit. We'll have an outdoor tent, music, plenty of food and some great beer: Oberon, Smitten, Amber, Two Hearted, Black Note, Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, Raspberry Ale, Quinannan Falls Special Lager and Hopslam. The celebration will start before the game and continue afterward. The game will also be on TV as well.</p> <h3>April 6</h3> <p><strong>Burgers, Bowling, BBQ, &amp; Bell’s:</strong><a href="http://www.fernhillgc.com/floodz-sports-bar.html"> Floodz Sports Bar,</a> Clinton Township, 6 p.m. - $25 admission includes burger and BBQ buffet, a pint of Oberon plus two extra drink tickets and two games of bowling (including shoe rental). On tap: Oberon, Two Hearted, Quinannan Falls Special Lager, Amber and Hopslam (just added).</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>April 1</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.peleswoodfire.com/">Pele's Wood Fire</a>, Jacksonville, 6 p.m. - Seven courses paired with with Amber, Best Brown, Expedition Stout, Oarsman, Special Double Cream Stout, Third Coast Old Ale, Two Hearted Ale and Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000. Call 904-232-8545 for more information.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>April 1</h3> <p><strong>Oberon Release Party: </strong><a href="http://www.aristocratpub.com/">The Aristocrat Pub</a>, Indianapolis, 5-9 p.m. - Oberon joins 5 other Bell’s on tap for the night</p> <h3>April 4</h3> <p><strong>Free Bell's Tasting:</strong> Belmont Beverage - Riviera Plaza, Fort Wayne, 4-6 p.m. - &nbsp;Oberon, Amber, Kalamazoo Stout, Midwestern Pale Ale, Porter and Two Hearted</p> <p><strong>Oberon Release Party:</strong> <a href="http://www.gersthaus.com/">Gerst Haus,</a> Evansville, 6 p.m. - Oberon, Hopslam, Kalamazoo Stout, Amber and Smitten</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>April 3</h3> <p><strong>Oberon Pint Night:</strong> <a href="http://pazzospizzapub.com/">Pazzo's Pizza Pub</a>, 6:30 p.m. &nbsp;- Keep the glass night</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>April 1</h3> <p><strong>Oberon Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.jackbeagles.com/">Jack Beagle's</a>, Charlotte, 5 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Oberon Tapping: </strong><a href="http://www.dillingerstaproom.com/">Dillinger's Taproom</a>, Charlotte, 5 p.m. &nbsp;</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>April 5</h3> <p><strong>Beer Tasting/Oberon Release:</strong> <a href="http://www.heinens.com/">Heinen's Bay Village</a>, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. - 8 different Bell's beers as well as hors d'oeuvres, specialty cheeses &amp; artisan breads to compliment the beers</p> <h2>Pennsylvania</h2> <h3>April 1</h3> <p><strong>Opening Day Ballpark Brunch:</strong> <a href="http://bzbarandgrill.com">BZ's Bar and Grill</a>, Pittsburgh, 8 a.m. &nbsp;- Oberon will be flowing all day</p> <h3>April 2</h3> <p><strong>Bacon and Oberon Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.harrisgrill.com/">Harris Grill,</a> Pittsburgh – At 6:30 p.m., FREE BACON starts flowing at the bar</p> <h2>South Carolina</h2> <h3>April 3</h3> <p><strong>Oberon Patio Party:</strong> <a href="http://www.thirstyfellow.com/">Thirsty Fellow</a>, Columbia, noon</p> <h2>Georgia</h2> <h3>April 4</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Pint Night and Oberon Patio Party:</strong> <a href="http://www.tedsmostbest.com/">Ted's Most Best</a>, Athens, 5 p.m.- keep the glass</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for Bell’s &amp; Bingo, Oberon release parties and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look at our full calendar.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-04-01T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Oberon 2013: Where to find that first sip, gear and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/176-Oberon%202013%3A%20Where%20to%20find%20that%20first%20sip%2C%20gear%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/d5ae136761598288fc3397bd440eff13.png" alt="OberonLabel.tif.png" height="204" width="207">Looking for that first sip of Oberon?</p> <p>There are just over a 100 events <a title="Events" href="/events-2/">on our Calendar</a>. The<a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/"> Eccentric </a><a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Café</a> will also open at 9 a.m. on March 25.</p> <p>If you don’t see something near you, be sure to contact your preferred bar or restaurant to see if they have it on tap.</p> <p>You can also <a title="Beer Finder" href="/index.php?cID=236">use our Beer Finder to locate any available Oberon nearby</a> as well.</p> <p><strong>Other Oberon related news:</strong></p> <ul> <li><a href="http://bit.ly/10R04Bn">Take a look at the 2013 Oberon mini-keg design.</a></li> <li>Looking for Oberon related gear? <a title="General Store" href="/index.php?cID=139">Our General Store has you covered.</a></li> <li>More? <a href="http://pinterest.com/BellsBrewery/oberon/">Check out our Pinterest board.</a></li> </ul> <p>Cheers and happy Oberon Day!</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-03-22T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Passport to Oberon, Charlotte Craft Beer Week. Q Falls and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/175-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Passport%20to%20Oberon%2C%20Charlotte%20Craft%20Beer%20Week.%20Q%20Falls%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/4113/6363/4864/Passport_Cover.jpg" alt="Passport_Cover.jpg" height="349" width="278">Below is a look at our events this week in Michigan, Florida, Missouri, North Carolina and Ohio.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>March 18</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.kalamazoobeerexchange.com/">The Beer Exchange</a>, Kalamazoo, 6:30 p.m. – SOLD OUT</p> <h3>March 19</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.elizabethschophouse.com/">Elizabeth's Chop House</a>, Marquette, 6 p.m. – <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2921">Take a look at the menu.</a></p> <p><strong>Passport to Oberon - Stop #1:</strong> <a href="http://www.oldburdicks.com/">Burdick's - Holiday Inn West,</a> Kalamazoo, 5 p.m. &nbsp;- Kick-off this year's Oberon release with special events (three in total) leading up to a midnight release on March 24. Pick up your passport at any Burdick's location and enjoy special Bell's beers (Roundhouse will featured at this stop). The more stamps you have, the better your chance of winning our raffle to be crowned Oberon King or Queen (you must present your stamped passport on March 24 to be eligible).</p> <h3>March 20</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Firkin Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://thelandmarkinn.com">Landmark Inn</a>, Marquette, 7 p.m. &nbsp;</p> <h3>March 21</h3> <p><strong>Passport to Oberon - Stop #2:</strong> <a href="http://www.oldburdicks.com/">Burdick's Downtown</a>, 5 p.m. - Red Nose ESB will be the specialty tap featured (see above for full details).</p> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner: </strong><a href="http://www.fuelwoodfiregrill.com/">Fuel Wood-fire Grill</a>, Port Huron, 6:30 p.m. – <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2938">Take a look at the menu.</a></p> <h3>March 23</h3> <p><strong>Passport to Oberon - Stop #3:</strong> <a href="http://www.oldburdicks.com/">Burdick's Wings West</a>, Kalamazoo, 5 p.m. &nbsp;- Captain Spontaneous will be the specialty tap featured (see above for full details).</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>Through Feb. 25</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Baseball Pub Crawl: </strong>Lakeland – <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2879">Go here for more details.</a></p> <h3>March 21</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Spotlight Night:</strong> R.J. Grady's, Lakeland, 6 p.m.</p> <h3>March 26<strong></strong></h3> <p><strong>Barrel Aged Night: </strong><a href="http://wobusa.com/Locations/Viera.aspx">Word of Beer - Viera</a>, Melbourne, 6 p.m. - Barrel Aged Batch 9,000 and Barrel Aged Cherry Stout</p> <h2>Missouri</h2> <h3>March 20</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover with 4 Hands Brewing Co.:</strong> <a href="http://threekingspub.com/">Three Kings Public House</a>, St. Louis, 6 p.m. &nbsp;- Expedition Stout, Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout, Third Coast Old Ale, Java Stout, Consecrator Doppelbock, Two Hearted, Midwestern Pale Ale, Best Brown, Special Double Cream Stout and Smitten.</p> <p><strong>On tap from 4 Hands Brewing Co.:</strong> Cuvee Ange, No Place Like Home, Chocolate Milk Stout, Contact High, Pyrus Saison, Smoked Pigasus, Reprise Centennial Red, Divided Sky Rye IPA, Single Speed with Jasmine and Cast Iron Oatmeal Brown</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>March 20</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.saludbeershop.com/">Salud Beer Shop</a>, Charlotte, 5 p.m. - Celebrate Salud's one year anniversary with Amber, Two Hearted, Oarsman, Expedition Stout, Smoked Vienna Lager, Sweet Potato Stout and Le Batteur.</p> <h3>March 21</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://charlottecraftbeerweek.org">Charlotte Craft Beer Week</a> - Freakfest at </strong>The Common Market South End, Charlotte, 7 p.m. &nbsp;We'll be pouring Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000.</p> <h3>March 22</h3> <p><strong>Charlotte Craft Beer Week - Beer Dinner featuring Bell's and Allagash Brewing Co.:</strong> <a href="http://usnwc.org/">U.S. National Whitewater Center</a>, Charlotte, 6:30 p.m. - Oarsman Ale, Two Hearted, Hell Hath No Fury and Hopslam will be featured along with White, Black, Curieux and Dubbel from Allagash. Call 704-391-3900 for more information.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>March 20</h3> <p><strong>A Touch of New Orleans:</strong> <a href="http://www.lizardville.net">Lizardville Rocky River</a>, 6:30 p.m. - Our Jazz Series' of Bière de Garde beers will be featured - Le Batteur, Le Contrebassiste and Le Pianiste. Each will be paired with NOLA themed food. Also on the menu will be Oarsman and Special Double Cream Stout. Classic jazz &amp; zydeco music will be playing throughout the evening as well.</p> <h3>March 21</h3> <p><strong>Quinannan Falls Special Lager Beer Tapping: </strong><a href="http://www.winkinglizard.com/">Winking Lizard</a> locations (Gateway, Independence, Bedford Heights, Mentor, Crosswoods, Lakewood, Coventry, Macedonia and Fairlawn), 4 p.m.</p> <h3>March 23</h3> <p><strong>5th Annual Winking Lizard Cask Conditioned Ale Festival: </strong><a href="http://www.winkinglizard.com/">Winking Lizard Party Center</a>, Bedford, 1-4 &amp; 5-8 p.m.&nbsp; – The only cask of Hopslam in NE Ohio.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Oberon will return on March 25. Stay tuned for a list of events or <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">check out our full calendar.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-03-18T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Kegs and eggs, Black Note, Hopslam, tap takeovers and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/174-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Kegs%20and%20eggs%2C%20Black%20Note%2C%20Hopslam%2C%20tap%20takeovers%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/3d7ad5aeacaa4c32184f4a35e5f74cc2.jpg" alt="Tylers_HopslamTapping031413.jpg" height="446" width="291">Below is a look at events this week in Michigan, Arizona, Florida, Indiana, Minnesota, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio and Pennsylvania.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>March 12</h3> <p><strong>Beer and Wings:</strong> <a href="http://www.buffalowildwings.com/">Buffalo Wild Wings</a>, Monroe, 6-8 p.m. - Smitten, Two Hearted, Le Batteur, Roundhouse, Sparkling Ale and Black Note (taped at 7 p.m.)</p> <h3>March 13</h3> <p><strong>Brooks Urban Herd Run Happy Pub Run: </strong>The Eccentric Café, downtown Kalamazoo, 6 p.m. - This 5k fun run that will start and finish at the Café will benefit Big Brothers, Big Sisters. Registration for this event is $10 and includes entry into the run, a drink ticket and an entry into our raffle. Be sure to dress for our costume contest as well - prizes to be awarded for the most spirited costumes.</p> <h3>March 15</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://wheatberrytavern.com/">Wheatberry Tavern</a>, Buchanan - A la carte style menu featuring Black Note, Smitten, Hopslam and Hell Hath No Fury. Call for more details.</p> <h3>March 18</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.kalamazoobeerexchange.com/">The Beer Exchange</a>, Kalamazoo, 6:30 p.m. &nbsp;- Multi-course beer dinner at The Beer Exchange will feature year round, seasonal and specialty beers. Tickets are on sale now.</p> <h2>Arizona</h2> <h3>March 13</h3> <p><strong>Meet Larry Bell/Tap Event: </strong><a href="http://wobusa.com/tempe">World of Beer,</a> Tempe &nbsp;- Join us for a special visit from Larry Bell along with Black Note, La Contrabassiste, La Pianiste, La Batteur, Oberon, Two Hearted and Midwestern Pale Ale.</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>Through March 25</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Baseball Pub Crawl: </strong>Lakeland - <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2879">Find more information here.</a></p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>March 14</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover Party: </strong><a href="http://cobblestonegrill.com">Cobblestone Grill</a>, Zionsville, 6 p.m. &nbsp;- 12 Bell's beers on tap: Two Hearted, Smitten, Amber, Oatmeal Stout, Midwestern Pale Ale, Java Stout, Roundhouse IRA, Rednose ESB, Best Brown, Quinannan Falls Special Lager, Oarsman and Black Note</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>March 13</h3> <p><strong>Jazz Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.republicmn.com/">Republic Uptown</a>, Minneapolis, 6-9 p.m. - We'll be pouring our Jazz Series, a set of three French Bier De Gardes - Le Batteur, Le Pianisite and Le Contrebassiste.</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>March 14</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Firkin Tapping: </strong><a href="http://www.tylerstaproom.com/">Tyler's Taproom</a>, Raleigh, 6 p.m. &nbsp;- &nbsp;Hopslam firkin, Sweet Potato Stout, Le Batteur, Third Coast Old Ale, 2011 Cherry Stout and Smoked Vienna Lager</p> <h2>North Dakota</h2> <h3>March 14</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Music Night: </strong><a href="http://www.hoteldonaldson.com">Ho-Do</a>, Fargo, 5 p.m. - Black Note, Le Batteur, Le Pianisite and Le Contrebassiste</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>March 14</h3> <p><strong>Black Note Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.columbusbodega.com/">Bodega</a>, Columbus, 8 p.m. – Five course beer dinner featuring Black Note, Hell Hath No Fury … Ale, Le Contrebassiste Ale, Two Hearted Ale, Le Pianiste Ale and Roundhouse. &nbsp;<a href="http://bodegablacknotedinner-es2005.eventbrite.com/?rank=1#">Purchase tickets here.</a></p> <h3>March 15</h3> <p><strong>St. Patrick's Day Beer Tasting: </strong><a href="http://www.westpointmarket.com/">West Point Market</a>, Akron - Year round favorites like Amber and Two Hearted plus Harry Magill's Spiced Stout - Reservations are required.</p> <h2>Pennsylvania</h2> <h3>March 16</h3> <p><strong>Kegs &amp; Eggs:</strong> <a href="http://www.mexi-casa.com/">Mexi-Casa</a>, Pittsburgh, 9 a.m. – Start your day with a firkin of Kalamazoo Stout!</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Oberon will return March 25, but before then, you can join us for Charlotte Craft Beer Week, a touch of New Orleans in Ohio and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look at our full calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-03-11T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Beer + running + charity = Urban Herd Run at Bell's Eccentric Cafe http://bellsbeer.com/news/173-Beer%20%2B%20running%20%2B%20charity%20%3D%20Urban%20Herd%20Run%20at%20Bell%27s%20Eccentric%20Cafe <p>Bell’s beer, running and charity will come together for a special St. Patrick’s Day themed 5k fun run at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, March 13.</p> <p>The Brooks Urban Herd Run Happy Pub Run will start and finish from the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Café</a> in downtown Kalamazoo.</p> <p>All event proceeds will go to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kalamazoo.</p> <p>A $10 registration fee also includes a drink ticket and a raffle ticket. Prizes will also be awarded to the most spirited costume.</p> <p><a href="http://www.gazellesports.com/urbanherd">You can register here</a> or at the Café from 5-5:30 p.m. the day of. Special event shirts will also be available for $15 at <a href="http://www.gazellesports.com">Gazelle Sports</a>.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-03-11T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Black Note in Ohio, Brew-Ski Festival, Tampa Bay Beer Week and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/172-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Black%20Note%20in%20Ohio%2C%20Brew-Ski%20Festival%2C%20Tampa%20Bay%20Beer%20Week%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/6913/4858/1653/Black_Note.jpg" alt="Black_Note.jpg" height="412" width="312">Below is a look at our events this week in Michigan, Arizona, Florida, Ohio, Wisconsin and Georgia.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>March 5</h3> <p><strong>Beer and Wings:</strong> <a href="http://www.buffalowildwings.com/">Buffalo Wild Wings</a>, Mt. Clemens, 6-8 p.m. - Smitten Golden Rye Ale, Black Note (7 p.m.), not to mention discounts on wings all day.</p> <h3>March 7</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night:</strong> <a href="http://oneunderbar.com/">One Under Bar and Grill</a>, Livonia, 6 p.m. - Amber Ale, 2011 Cherry Stout, Midwestern Pale Ale, Quinannan Falls Special Lager, Two Hearted Ale, Roundhouse and Smitten</p> <p><strong>7 Bell's on the 7th:</strong> <a href="http://dexterspub.net/">Dexter Pub,</a> Dexter, 6:30 p.m. – Hopslam, Smitten, Java Stout, Red Nose ESB and more</p> <h3>March 9</h3> <p><a href="http://www.boyne.com/BoyneHighlands"><strong>4th Annual Brew-Ski Festival:</strong></a> Boyne Highlands, Harbor Springs, Noon - 5 p.m.</p> <h2>Arizona</h2> <h3>March 7</h3> <p><strong>Meet Larry Bell/Tap Event:</strong><a href="http://www.Flannys.com"> Flanny's Bar and Grill,</a> Tempe, 6 p.m. &nbsp;- Join Larry for a special tapping of Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout, Harry Magill's Spiced Stout, Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, Oberon, Two Hearted and Midwestern Pale Ale.</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>Through March 25</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Baseball Pub Crawl: </strong>Lakeland – <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2879">Find more information here.</a></p> <h3>March 4</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Brewery Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.datzdeli.com/">Datz</a>, Tampa, 7-9 p.m. - Join us for some beer education, sampling and basket giveaways.</p> <h3>March 5</h3> <p><strong>Tampa Bay Beer Week - Hopslam Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.thesteinandvine.com">Stein and Vine,</a> Brandon, 6 p.m. – midnight - Hopslam, Amber Ale, Expedition Stout, Midwestern Pale Ale, Oberon, Quinannan Falls Special Lager and Two Hearted</p> <h3>March 7</h3> <p><strong>Tampa Bay Beer Week - Bell's Night:</strong> <a href="http://wobusa.com/Locations/DowntownStPete.aspx">World of Beer St. Pete,</a> 6 p.m. - midnight &nbsp;- 15 Bell's beers on tap: Amber Ale, Batch 9,000, Best Brown Ale, Cherry Stout, Christmas Ale, Expedition Stout, Hell Hath No Fury … Ale, Hopslam, Kalamazoo Stout, Midwestern Pale Ale, Oberon, Sparkling Ale, Special Double Cream Stout, Third Coast Old Ale and Two Hearted. There will also be giveaways and a beer basket raffle.</p> <h3>March 9</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beertopia: </strong><a href="http://wobusa.com/Locations/DrPhillips.aspx">World of Beer, Orlando</a>, 2 p.m. - 20+ drafts with some small batch beers such as Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000 and Hopslam. There will be raffles and giveaways as well as live music starting at 9 p.m.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>March 4</h3> <p><strong>Black Note Tasting &amp; Bottle Release: </strong><a href="http://www.lizardville.net">Lizardville</a>, Rocky River and Bedford Heights, 3 p.m. (Rocky River) and 4 p.m. (Bedford Heights) - Flights of Black Note, Expedition Stout and Special Double Cream Stout. Single bottles will also be available to purchase - 1 per person please.</p> <h2>Wisconsin</h2> <h3>March 9</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.karmamilwaukee.com/">Karma Bar &amp; Grill,</a> Milwaukee, - Call 414-220-4118 for more information.</p> <h2>Georgia</h2> <h3>March 9</h3> <p><a href="http://tacomac.com/2012/12/06/secret-stash-bash/"><strong>Taco Mac's Secret Stash Bash:</strong></a> The Prado, Sandy Springs, 2-6 p.m. - Le Batteur and Sweet Potato Stout</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Next week, we are hosting the Brooks Urban Herd Run Happy Pub Run at the Eccentric Café, Jazz Night in Minneapolis, a beer dinner in Buchanan and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2">Take a look at our full calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-03-04T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Tampa Bay Beer Week, bacon, Black Note and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/171-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Tampa%20Bay%20Beer%20Week%2C%20bacon%2C%20Black%20Note%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/244d7f72f64baf1ac10be1c72e90a4ad.JPG" alt="LightsOut.JPG" height="248" width="332">Below is a look at our events this week in Florida, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio and Wisconsin.</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>Through March 25</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Baseball Pub Crawl:</strong> Multiple locations in Lakeland from noon - midnight - Win a Bell’s tailgate package. For more details, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2879">go here</a>.</p> <h3>Feb. 27</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.proofbrewingco.com/">Proof</a>, Tallahassee, 7 p.m. - Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000. Amber Ale, Best Brown, Expedition Stout, Oberon, Sparkling Ale and Two Hearted will also be on tap.</p> <p><strong>Bell's Bourbon Barrel Night &amp; Hopslam:</strong><a href="http://www.wobcarrollwood.com"> </a>World of Beer - Carrolwood, Tampa, 6 p.m. - midnight - Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout and Batch 9,000</p> <h3>March 2</h3> <p><strong>3rd annual <a href="http://www.ophmainst.com">Old Palm Harbor Blues and Brews Festival</a>,</strong> 3-10 p.m. - Amber Ale, Oberon and Two Hearted</p> <h3>March 3</h3> <p><strong>Bacon Beer Bash:</strong> <a href="http://wobusa.com/Locations/DowntownStPete.aspx">World of Beer, Downtown St. Petersburg</a>, 6 p.m. – Bacon and This One Goes to 11 … need we say more?</p> <p><a href="http://tampabaybeerweek.com/"><strong>Tampa Bay Beer Week:</strong></a> Eggs and Kegs,<a href="http://www.cigarcitybrewing.com/"> Cigar City Tasting Room</a>, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. - Brunch includes 4-courses prepared with both breweries’ offerings with a Latin flair and a pint of beer. Stay for live music, fresh espresso and of course, special beer offerings from both breweries. Tickets are $25 and must be purchased before Feb. 28.</p> <h3>March 4</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Brewery Night: </strong><a href="http://www.datzdeli.com/">Datz,</a> Tampa, 7-9 p.m. - beer education, sampling and basket giveaways</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Feb. 26</h3> <p><strong>Bel's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.themittrestaurant.com/">The Mitt Restaurant,</a> Mt. Clemens, 7 p.m. - Porter, Oarsman, Best Brown, Smitten, and Hopslam round out a menu of Michigan comfort. Reservations can be made in person or by calling 586-493-0500.</p> <h3>Feb. 27</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover: </strong><a href="http://www.aubrees.com/">Aubree's Pizzeria and Grill</a>, Northville, 6 p.m. - Black Note, Sweet Potato Stout, Hell Hath No Fury, Captain Spontaneous, and a Hopslam firkin in addition to their regular Bell's line-up</p> <h3>Feb. 28</h3> <p><strong>Lights Out:</strong> Shark Club, Howell, 6 p.m. - Black Note (7 p.m.), Best Brown, 2011 Cherry Stout, Hell Hath No Fury … Ale, Java Stout, Kalamazoo Stout, Porter, Special Double Cream Stout, Sweet Potato Stout and Harry Magill's Spiced Stout</p> <h3>March 1</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s Beer <a href="http://www.iceman.com/">Iceman </a>Registration Party:</strong> <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Cafe</a>, downtown Kalamazoo starting at noon - We’ll have 400 paper entries available with a limit of 3 per person. There will also be giveaways, a sale of 2012 merchandise and maybe even a game or two.</p> <h3>March 2</h3> <p><strong>Suds &amp; Snow:</strong> <a href="http://www.timberridgeresort.net">Timber Ridge Resort</a>, 1:30-6:30 p.m. - Best Brown, Two Hearted, Hopslam, Third Coast Old Ale, Amber, Smitten and Hell Hath No Fury</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Feb. 27</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Firkin Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.moondogtavern.com/">Moon Dog Tavern</a>, Indianapolis, 6 p.m.</p> <h3>March 1</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Firkin Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.massavepub.com/">Mass Ave. Pub,</a> Indianapolis, 6 p.m.</p> <h3>March 2</h3> <p><strong>Charity Beer &amp; Wine Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://www.waterbirdinn.com">Waterbird Banquet Center</a>, Chesterton, 2-5 p.m.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Feb. 26</h3> <p><strong>Jazz Series Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://hopleaf.com/">Hopleaf,</a> Chicago, 7:30 p.m. - Le Batteur, Le Pianiste, and Le Contrabassiste (blonde, amber and brown respectively) PLUS This One Goes to 11</p> <h3>Feb. 27</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.chuckscafe.com/">Chuck's Southern Comfort Cafe</a>, Burbank, 5 p.m. - Smitten Golden Rye Ale, Captain Spontaneous, Hopslam and Consecrator Doppelbock</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>Feb. 27</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.winkinglizard.com">Winking Lizard,</a> Columbus Crosswoods, 6-9 p.m. - Quinannan Falls, Le Batteur,<br> Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout, Sparkling Ale, Two Hearted, Smitten and Hopslam. Space is limited.</p> <h3>March 1</h3> <p><strong>Bockfest Kick-off:</strong> <a href="http://www.arnoldsbarandgrill.com/">Arnold's Bar and Grill</a>, Cincinnati, 4 p.m. - Consecrator Doppelbock</p> <h3>March 4</h3> <p><strong>Black Note Tasting &amp; Bottle Release:</strong> <a href="http://www.lizardville.net">Lizardville</a>, Rocky River and Bedford Heights, 3 p.m. (Rocky River) &amp; 4 p.m. (Bedford Heights)</p> <h2>Wisconsin</h2> <h3>Feb. 28</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.trocaderogastrobar.com/">Trocadero Gastrobar</a>, Milwaukee, 6:30 p.m. (reception), 7 p.m. (dinner) - Three courses and five different Bell's beers including Oarsman and Hopslam</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p><strong>Beer &amp; Wings, Brew-Ski Festival, and more:</strong><a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2"> Take a look at our full calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-02-26T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Dinners, Black Note, Brewvival, tap takeovers and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/170-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Dinners%2C%20Black%20Note%2C%20Brewvival%2C%20tap%20takeovers%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/0321cd721ea24277ee459cc4407a545f.jpg" alt="HellsBells_ParlorCity-01.jpg" height="531" width="355">Below is a look at our events this week in Ohio, Washington DC, Michigan, Kentucky, Minnesota, Arizona, Florida, Illinois, North Carolina, South Carolina, Iowa and Indiana.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>Feb. 18</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Lover's Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.grovewoodtavern.com/">Grovewood Tavern</a> in Cleveland at 6:30 p.m. – <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2817">Take a look at the menu.</a></p> <h3>Feb. 19</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://www.grogshop.gs/">Grog Shop</a> in Cleveland from 7-9 p.m. &nbsp;– sample and learn about 5 different beers and enjoy appetizers</p> <h3>Feb. 22</h3> <p><strong>Black Note Tasting: </strong><a href="http://www.acmestores.com/">Acme</a> in Cuyahoga Falls from 6-7 p.m. - Special Double Cream, Expedition, Smitten and Two Heated will also be available both in flights and for growlers (after the tasting)</p> <h2>Washington DC</h2> <h3>Feb. 18</h3> <p><strong>Multi-Tap Event:</strong> <a href="http://churchkeydc.com/">ChurchKey </a>at 4 p.m. - Hopslam firkin, Amber, Best Brown, Double Cream Stout, Expedition Stout, Harry Magill's Spiced Stout, Le Batteur, Oracle, Oarsman, Porter, Smitten, Two Hearted, Midwestern Pale Ale, Sparkling Ale, Kalamazoo Stout and Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Feb. 19</h3> <p><strong>Beer and Wings:</strong><a href="http://www.buffalowildwings.com/"> Buffalo Wild Wings</a> in Livonia from 6-8 p.m. – Smitten and Black Note (7 p.m. tapping)</p> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.grangekitchenandbar.com/">Grange Kitchen and Bar</a> in Ann Arbor at 6:30 p.m. - Red Nose ESB, Expedition Stout, Oarsman, Smitten and Hopslam. Call 734-995-2107 for more information.</p> <h3>Feb. 20</h3> <p><strong>DARK:</strong> <a href="http://ashleys.com/index.html">Ashley's</a> Ann Arbor at 6:30 p.m. - Black Note, Expedition Stout, Hell Hath No Fury ... Ale, 2011 Cherry Stout and others</p> <h3>Feb. 21</h3> <p><strong>Pre-Winter Michigan Beer Festival Party:</strong> <a href="http://derbystation.com/">Derby Station</a> in Grand Rapids - Black Note, Roundhouse IRA, Best Brown, Oarsman and Sweet Potato Stout on draft plus a firkin of Hopslam</p> <p><strong>Craft Beer Dinner: </strong><a href="http://www.thebob.com">The B.O.B.</a> in Grand Rapids at 5:30 p.m. – Smitten and Expedition Stout</p> <h3>Feb. 22</h3> <p><strong>WYCE Jammies XIV:</strong> <a href="http://sectionlive.com/">The Intersection</a> in Grand Rapids at 5:30 p.m. - This one goes to 11, Hell Hath No Fury, Black Note, Best Brown, Two Hearted and Hopslam</p> <p><strong>Pre-Winter Michigan Beer Festival Tap Takeover:</strong> <a href="http://www.meanwhilebar.com/">The Meanwhile</a> in Grand Rapids at 4 p.m. - Kal-Haven Ale, Smoked Vienna Lager, Raspberry Ale, This one goes to 11, Hell Hath No Fury, Black Note, Expedition Stout, Special Double Cream Stout, Debs' Red, Quinannan Falls Special Lager, Amber, Midwestern Pale Ale, Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout, Two Hearted, Hopslam (draft and firkin) and Lager of the Lakes</p> <h3>Feb. 23</h3> <p><strong>2013 Michigan Winter Beer Festival:</strong> Fifth Third Ballpark in Comstock Park - Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9000 (2 p.m.), Kal-Haven Ale, Raspberry Ale, This one goes to 11, Hell Hath No Fury, Black Note (noon and 4 p.m.), Third Coast Old Ale, Debs' Red, Le Pianiste, Le Batteur, Batch 9,000, Le Contrebassiste, Two Hearted, Quinannan Falls Special Lager, Raspberry Wild One (1 p.m.), Hopslam, Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout (3 p.m.), Harry Magill's Spiced Stout, Sweet Potato Stout and Red Nose ESB</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>Feb. 19</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://www.southgatehouse.com">The Southgate House Revival</a> in Newport at 7 p.m. – Hopslam, Java Stout, Midwestern Pale Ale, Oarsman, Special Double Cream Stout and Smitten Golden Rye Ale</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Feb. 19</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Cask Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://patstap.com/">Pat's Tap</a> in Minneapolis at 6 p.m.</p> <h3>Feb. 21</h3> <p><strong>Multi-Tap Event:</strong> <a href="http://www.taphousemn.com">The Tap House</a> in Rochester at 5 p.m. - *Updated: Black Note, Oatmeal Stout, Sparkling Ale, Quinannan Falls Special Lager, Roundhouse IRA, Le Batteur, Le Pianiste, Le Contrebassiste, Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, and Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout. Double Cream Stout, Two Hearted and Smitten will also be available as well.</p> <h2>Arizona</h2> <h3>Feb. 19</h3> <p><strong>Arizona Beer Week 2013 - Bell's Spec-Tap-Ular</strong>: <a href="http://mellowmushroom.com/">Mellow Mushroom</a> in Phoenix at 4 p.m. – Hopslam</p> <h3>Feb. 20</h3> <p><strong>Arizona Beer Week 2013 - Tap Event:</strong> <a href="http://www.groundxcontrol.com/">Ground Control</a> in Lichfield Park from 6-8 p.m. - Oarsman, Hopslam, Winter White, Smitten, Expedition Stout and Porter</p> <h3>Feb. 22</h3> <p><strong>Arizona Beer Week 2013 - 2nd Annual Eccentric Cafe Festival:</strong> <a href="http://www.hungrymonkaz.com">The Hungry Monk</a> in Chandler from 3-11 p.m. &nbsp;- 21 beers on tap throughout the evening including Le Pianiste, Midwestern Pale Ale, Oarsman, Oatmeal Stout, Oberon, Porter, Smitten, Two Hearted, Amber, Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9000, 2011 Cherry Stout, Expedition Stout, Harry Magill's Spiced Stout, Hopslam, Kalamazoo Stout, Kal-Haven Rye, Le Batteur, Le Contrebassiste and special tappings of Black Note (6:30 p.m.) and Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout (7:30 p.m.) – don’t forget your eccentric ware. One hundred percent of all sales from Black Note will go to support the American Heart Association.</p> <p><strong>Arizona Beer Week 2013 - Limited Release Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.mrmotorising.com/">Moto</a> in Phoenix at 6 p.m.</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>Feb. 20</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://stubbiesandsteins.com/">Stubbies and Steins</a> in Gainesville at 3 p.m. - Amber, Best Brown, 2011 Cherry Stout, Expedition Stout, Midwestern Pale Ale, Oberon, Sparkling Ale, Third Coast Old Ale, Two Hearted and Winter White as well</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Feb. 20</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.wildfirerestaurant.com/">Wildfire </a>in Glenview starting at 6:30 p.m. –<a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2656"> Take a look at the menu.</a></p> <h3>Feb. 21</h3> <p><strong>Beer &amp; Food Pairing:</strong> <a href="http://www.taphousegrills.com">Tap House Grill</a> in Plainfield starting at 6:30 p.m. – <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2783">Take a look at the menu.</a></p> <h3>Feb. 24</h3> <p><strong>Dark Side Beer Festival:</strong> <a href="http://emporiumchicago.com/">Emporium</a> in Chicago at noon - Black Note and 2011 Cherry Stout</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>Feb. 21</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Cask Tapping: </strong>Universal Joint in Asheville at 6 p.m.</p> <h3>Feb. 24</h3> <p><a href="http://www.DPACnc.com"><strong>Bull City Beer and Food Experience:</strong></a> Durham Performance Arts Center from 4-8 p.m.</p> <h2>South Carolina</h2> <h3>Feb. 23</h3> <p><a href="http://brewvival.com/"><strong>BREWVIVAL:</strong></a> Charleston from noon-6 p.m. - Harry Magill's Spiced Stout, Hopslam (cask), Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000 and Smitten Golden Rye Ale</p> <h2>Iowa</h2> <h3>Feb. 23</h3> <p><strong>Hell's Bell's Tap Takeover:</strong> <a href="http://www.parlorcitypub.com/">Parlor City</a> in Cedar Rapids starting at 8 a.m. - 24 beers on tap including - Black Note (6 p.m.), Hopslam (7 p.m.), Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000 (5 p.m.) and Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout (4 p.m.). Wear your best devlish costume and compete for prizes (8 p.m. judging - you must be present to win).</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Feb. 23</h3> <p><strong>Multi-Tap Event:</strong> <a href="http://www.triontavern.com">Trion Tavern</a> in New Haven at 5 p.m. - Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, Two Hearted, Midwestern Pale Ale, Amber, Consecrator Doppelbock, Porter, Double Cream Stout, Quinnanan Falls Special Lager, Kal Haven Rye Ale, Red Nose ESB, Roundhouse IRA, Smoked Vienna Lager, Le Batteur, Le Pianiste and Le Contrebassiste</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for a baseball pub crawl in Lakeland Florida, dinner at The Mitt, a Bockfest kick-off and much more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2">Our full calendar can always be found here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-02-18T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News 2013 Michigan Winter Beer Festival tap list, pre-festival event details here http://bellsbeer.com/news/169-2013%20Michigan%20Winter%20Beer%20Festival%20tap%20list%2C%20pre-festival%20event%20details%20here <p><img style="float: right; border: 0.5px solid black; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/be6b909371a4a4c5497628095f718634.jpg" alt="FestFlags.jpg" height="281" width="415">We’ll have 20 different beers on tap at this year’s <a href="http://www.michiganbrewersguild.org/">Michigan Winter Beer Festival</a> in Comstock Park including Black Note, Raspberry Wild One, Debs’ Red, Hopslam, our entire Jazz Series, This one goes to 11 and more.</p> <p>And if you weren't able to get a ticket, don’t worry because we have three pre-parties planned at Derby Station and The Meanwhile, not to mention this year’s Jammie awards, which we are co-sponsoring at The Intersection.</p> <p>Expedition Stout and Smitten will also be featured at The B.O.B. as part of their <a href="http://www.thebob.com/">Beer City Craft Beer Dinner</a> on Feb. 21.</p> <p>Tap lists and other details are below. We’ll see you in Grand Rapids Feb. 21-24!</p> <h2>Feb. 21</h2> <h3>Pre-Winter Michigan Beer Festival Party</h3> <p><strong>Where:</strong> <a href="http://derbystation.com/">Derby Station</a></p> <p><strong>On tap: </strong>Black Note, Roundhouse IRA, Best Brown, Oarsman and Sweet Potato Stout plus a firkin of Hopslam</p> <h2>Feb. 22</h2> <h3><a href="http://www.grcmc.org/radio/?page=radio&amp;s=home&amp;news_id=1622">WYCE Jammies XIV</a></h3> <p><strong>Where/when:</strong> <a href="http://sectionlive.com/">The Intersection </a>at 5:30 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Details: </strong>Bring a non perishable food item or gently used clothing donation. Admission is free for this all ages show. We'll have This one goes to 11, Hell Hath No Fury, Black Note, Best Brown, Two Hearted and Hopslam on tap.</p> <h3>Pre-Winter Michigan Beer Festival Tap Takeover</h3> <p><strong>Where/when:</strong> <a href="http://www.meanwhilebar.com/">The Meanwhile</a> starting at 4 p.m.</p> <p><strong>On tap:</strong> Kal-Haven Ale, Smoked Vienna Lager, Raspberry Ale, This one goes to 11, Hell Hath No Fury, Black Note, Expedition Stout, Special Double Cream Stout, Debs' Red, Quinannan Falls Special Lager, Amber Ale, Midwestern Pale Ale, Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout, Two Hearted, Hopslam and Lager of the Lakes</p> <h2>Feb. 23</h2> <h3>2013 Michigan Winter Beer Festival</h3> <p><strong>Where:</strong><a href="http://www.fifththirdballpark.com/"> Fifth Third Ballpark</a> in Comstock Park (sold out)</p> <p><strong>The tap list:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000 (2 p.m.)</li> <li>Kal-Haven Ale</li> <li>Raspberry Ale</li> <li>This one goes to 11 Ale</li> <li>Hell Hath No Fury ... Ale</li> <li>Black Note (noon and 4 p.m.)</li> <li>Third Coast Old Ale</li> <li>Debs' Red</li> <li>Le Pianiste</li> <li>Le Batteur</li> <li>Batch 9,000</li> <li>Le Contrebassiste</li> <li>Two Hearted</li> <li>Quinannan Falls Special Lager</li> <li>Raspberry Wild One (1 p.m.)</li> <li>Hopslam</li> <li>Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout (3 p.m.)</li> <li>Harry Magill's Spiced Stout</li> <li>Sweet Potato Stout</li> <li>Red Nose ESB</li> </ul> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-02-12T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Cincinnati Beer Week, Consecrator Doppelbock, Arizona Beer Week and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/168-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Cincinnati%20Beer%20Week%2C%20Consecrator%20Doppelbock%2C%20Arizona%20Beer%20Week%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/1a42f4dec5c5915431f1ebe0de71af54.jpg" alt="Bells_Macs_2.15.13.jpg" height="654" width="424">Below is a look at our events this week in Kentucky, Minnesota, Ohio, Illinois, Florida, North Carolina, Indiana, Michigan, Arizona and Washington DC.</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>Feb. 11</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://cincinnatibeerweek.com/">Cincinnati Beer Week</a> - Bell's Sampling: </strong><a href="http://mellowmushroom.com/store/wilder">Mellow Mushroom </a>in Wilder at 6 p.m. - Two Hearted, Amber, Oatmeal Stout, Midwestern Pale Ale and Hopslam</p> <h3>Feb. 13</h3> <p><strong>An Evening with Bell's:</strong> <a href="http://depsfinewine.com/">Dep's Fine Wine and Spirits</a> in Fort Thomas from 6-9 p.m. - enjoy a flight of 6 different beers including Hopslam and Expedition Stout, Hell Hath No Fury and Smitten.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Feb. 11</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night:</strong><a href="http://www.sweeneyssaloon.com"> Sweeny's</a> in St. Paul at 6 p.m. - Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9000, Hopslam, Smitten and Two Hearted</p> <h3>Feb. 14</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Cask Tapping: </strong><a href="http://www.republicmn.com/">Republic Uptown</a> in Minneapolis at 5 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Bell's Beers of Love: </strong><a href="http://bouldertaphouse.com/">Boulder Tap House</a> in St. Cloud at 5 p.m. – cask of Two Hearted plus Smitten</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>Feb. 11</h3> <p><strong>Black Note Tapping:</strong> Ogre Fest at <a href="http://www.thebrewkettle.com/">The Brew Kettle</a> in Cleveland. Other rare Bell’s beers will also be on tap throughout the week as well including 2012 Expedition Stout, Hopslam and 2010 Expedition Stout.</p> <h3>Feb. 13</h3> <p><strong>Cincinnati Beer Week - Bell's Jazz Series</strong> at <a href="http://www.arnoldsbarandgrill.com/">Arnold's Bar &amp; Grill</a> in Cincinnati from 6-10 p.m. - Le Batteur, Le Contrebassiste and Le Pianiste</p> <h3>Feb. 14</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam for your Valentine:</strong> Multiple <a href="http://www.winkinglizard.com/">Winking Lizard </a>locations (Gateway, Independence, Bedford Heights, Mentor, Crosswoods (Columbus), Lakewood, Coventry, Macedonia and Fairlawn) will feature Hopslam, Smitten and Two Hearted from noon until close</p> <h3>Feb. 16</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://www.winkinglizard.com/">Winking Lizard</a> Barrel Aged Beer Festival:</strong> Bedford Heights from 1-4 and 5-8 p.m. – we’re bringing Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout</p> <h3>Feb. 18</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Lover's Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.grovewoodtavern.com/">Grovewood Tavern</a> in Cleveland at 6:30 p.m. – <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2817">Take a look at the menu.</a></p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Feb. 11</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner: </strong><a href="http://www.wildfirerestaurant.com/">Wildfire </a>in Oak Brook at 6:30 p.m. – <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2654">Take a look at the menu.</a></p> <h3>Feb. 12</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.wildfirerestaurant.com/">Wildfire </a>in Chicago at 6:30 p.m. – <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2655">Take a look at the menu</a>.</p> <h3>Feb. 15</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night:</strong> Mac's American Pub in Chicago at 7 p.m. - Hopslam, Captain Spontaneous, Smitten Golden Rye Ale, Two Hearted and Amber</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>Feb. 12</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.independenttampa.com/">The Independent</a> in Tampa from 7-10 p.m. – Oberon and Two Hearted will also be available.</p> <h3>Feb. 13</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tap Takeover:</strong> World of Beer - Clermont from 7-10 p.m. &nbsp;– 12 Bell’s beers on tap!</p> <h3>Feb. 15</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.thegnarlybarley.com/">Gnarly Barley</a> in Orlando from 7-10 p.m. - Third Coast old Ale, 2011 Cherry Stout, Expedition Stout and Smitten Golden Rye will provide backup</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>Feb. 12</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Cask Tapping:</strong><a href="http://www.duckworthsgrillandbar.com"> Duckworth's Grill and Taphouse</a> in Charlotte at 5:30 p.m. - Amber, Midwestern Pale Ale and Porter will also be on tap</p> <h3>Feb. 13</h3> <p><strong>Pint Night &amp; Hopslam Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://monkpub.com/">Thirsty Monk</a> in Asheville at 5:30 p.m.</p> <h3>Feb. 16</h3> <p><strong>Bell's at <a href="http://www.beerknurd.com/stores/charlotte/">The Flying Saucer</a></strong><a href="http://www.beerknurd.com/stores/charlotte/"></a> in Charlotte at 2 p.m. - 2011 Cherry Stout, Harry Magill's Spiced Stout, Sweet Potato Stout, Roundhouse IRA, Smitten, Hopslam, Midwestern Pale Ale, Two Hearted and Amber Ale</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Feb. 12</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Firkin Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://800degrees.net/800threefires/">800 Degrees Three Fires</a> in Fort Wayne at 5 p.m. (6 p.m. firkin tapping) – Consecrator Doppelbock, Smitten and Two Hearted will be tapped as well.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Feb. 12</h3> <p><strong>Fat Tuesday:</strong> <a href="http://ashleys.com/index.html">Ashley's Ann Arbor</a> - all day - Consecrator Doppelbock will be available along with paczkis (while supplies last). We'll tap a firkin of Hopslam at 6:30 p.m.</p> <h2>Arizona</h2> <h3>Feb. 16</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://arizonabeerweek.com/">Arizona Beer Week 2013 </a>- Strong Beer Festival:</strong> Steele Indian School Park in Phoenix - Oberon, Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000 and Hopslam</p> <h2>Washington DC</h2> <h3>Feb. 18</h3> <p><strong>Multi-Tap Event:</strong> <a href="http://www.churchkeydc.com/">ChurchKey </a>at 4 p.m. – We will tap a Hopslam cask along with Amber, Best Brown, Special Double Cream Stout, Expedition Stout, Harry Magill's Spiced Stout, Le Batteur, Oracle, Oarsman, Porter, Smitten, Two Hearted, Midwestern Pale Ale, Sparkling Ale, Kalamazoo Stout and Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9000</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Next week, we have Beer and Wings specials, a beer dinner in Ann Arbor, Brewvival, the Michigan Winter Beer Festival and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2">Take a look.</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-02-11T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Hopslam on cask, stout celebrations, Cincinnati Beer Week and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/167-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Hopslam%20on%20cask%2C%20stout%20celebrations%2C%20Cincinnati%20Beer%20Week%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/26a5b27e01fa4a756948628495bb52a5.jpg" alt="OakCafe_StoutSampling-01.jpg" height="576" width="374">A look at our events this week in South Carolina, Virginia, Illinois, Minnesota, Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, Florida, Indiana and Arizona.</p> <h2>South Carolina</h2> <h3>Feb. 5</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Brewery Night:</strong> World of Beer Columbia - 10 beers on draft including Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000 and Sweet Potato Stout</p> <h2>Virginia</h2> <h3>Feb. 6</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Tapping: </strong><a href="http://mellowmushroom.com/store/charlottesville">Mellow Mushroom</a> in Charlottesville at 4 p.m.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Feb. 5</h3> <p><strong>Beer Pairing Event: </strong><a href="http://www.medicinormal.com/">Medici </a>in Bloomington at 6:30 p.m. – <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2708">Take a look at the menu.</a></p> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.riverviewtavern.com/">Riverview Tavern</a> in Chicago at 7 p.m. - <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2747">Take a look at the menu.</a></p> <h3>Feb. 7</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tap Event: </strong><a href="http://www.kellehersirishpub.com/">Kelleher’s </a>in Peoria at 5 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Annual Stoutuary Event:</strong> <a href="http://www.hackneysprintersrow.net/">Hackney's</a> in Chicago at 6 p.m. - Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout, Rye Stout, Oatmeal Stout, Expedition Stout, Double Cream Stout, Java Stout, Kalamazoo Stout, Hopslam, Third Coast Old Ale, Smitten, Two Hearted and Winter White Ale</p> <h3>Feb. 8</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Happy Hour: </strong><a href="http://www.radiomariarestaurant.com/">Radio Maria</a> in Champaign at 4:30 p.m. - Hopslam, Batch Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, Smitten, Expedition Stout, Two Hearted, Amber and Hell Hath No Fury</p> <p><strong>Bell's Night:</strong> Tuman's in Chicago at 7 p.m. - Hopslam, Captain Spontaneous, Smitten Golden Rye Ale, Two Hearted and Amber</p> <h3>Feb. 11</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.wildfirerestaurant.com/">Wildfire</a>, Oak Brook at 6:30 p.m. (reception) – <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2654">Take a look at the menu.</a></p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Feb. 5</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Cask Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://bryantlakebowl.com/">Bryant Lake Bowl</a> in Minneapolis at 5 p.m.</p> <h3>Feb. 6</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Cask Tapping:</strong> The Muddy Pig in St. Paul at 5 p.m.</p> <h3>Feb. 7</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Cask Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.thebulldoglowertown.com/">Bulldog Lowertown</a> in St. Paul at 4 p.m.</p> <h3>Feb. 8</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Cask Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://grumpys-bar.com/downtown/">Grumpy's Downtown</a> in Minneapolis at noon</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Feb. 5</h3> <p><strong>30 for 30:</strong><a href="http://ashleys.com/"> Ashley's Ann Arbor</a> – All day – Jazzy Hour, Bell’s Beer 101, 30 beers on draft and more. <a href="http://bit.ly/12agBnf">Full details</a>.</p> <h3>Feb. 9</h3> <p><a href="http://www.porterhouseproductions.com/"><strong>4th Annual Traverse City Winter MicroBrew and Music Festival</strong></a> - Amber, Midwestern Pale Ale, Oarsman, This one goes to 11, Sparkling Ale, Hopslam, Smitten Golden Rye Ale, Two Hearted, Best Brown, Special Double Cream Stout and Hell Hath No Fury ... Ale</p> <p><strong>A Celebration of Stout:</strong> <a href="http://oakcafe.com/">Oak Café </a>in Wyandotte from 4-7:30 p.m. – 10 beers on tap (Kalamazoo Stout, Double Cream Stout, Expedition Stout, Java Stout, Harry Magill’s Spiced Stout, Sweet Potato Stout, Oatmeal Stout, 2011 Cherry Stout, Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout and Black Note). A $25 ticket gets you six samples of your choosing (excluding Black Note), a pint of Kalamazoo Stout from the firkin, and a sample of Black Note. Other restrictions apply. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2735">Complete details can be found here.</a></p> <h3>Feb. 10</h3> <p><strong>Beer vs. Wine Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://redrockypsi.com/">Red Rock Downtown BBQ</a> in Ypsilanti at 5:30 p.m. – <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2787">Take a look at the menu</a>.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>Feb. 6</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover:</strong> <a href="http://www.lizardville.net">Lizardville </a>in Rocky River and Bedford Heights at 4 p.m. - Hopslam, Two Hearted, Smitten, Sparkling Ale and 2011 Cherry Stout</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>Feb. 7</h3> <p><strong>Cincinnati Beer Week - Bell's Night:</strong><a href="http://www.keystonebar.com"> Keystone Bar &amp; Grill</a> in Covington at 7 p.m. - Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000 (the only keg of this beer in northern Kentucky), Hopslam, Smitten Golden Rye Ale, Midwestern Pale Ale, Two Hearted and Third Coast Old Ale</p> <h3>Feb. 8</h3> <p><strong>Cincinnati Beer Week - Tap Takeover:</strong> <a href="http://www.partytownky.com">Party Tow </a>in Florence at 6 p.m. - 8 different beers including Hopslam and Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>Feb. 8</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam &amp; Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000 Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.brasstapbeerbar.com/">Brass Tap</a> in Wesley Chapel from 7-10 p.m. – Gift basket raffle</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Feb. 9</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Party:</strong> <a href="http://www.scottysbrewhouse.com/">Scotty's Brewhouse</a> in Bloomington at 7 p.m.</p> <h2>Arizona</h2> <h3>Feb. 10</h3> <p><strong>Beer &amp; BBQ Party on the Patio:</strong> <a href="http://ohsobrewery.com/">OHSO Brewery</a> in Phoenix from 4-6 p.m. - Oberon, Two Hearted, Oarsman and Hopslam (special tapping at 5 p.m.)</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Hopslam in Florida, Fat Tuesday in Ann Arbor, our Jazz Series in Cincinnati and more: <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2">Take a look at our full calendar.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-02-05T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Celebrate 30 years at Ashley’s with special events and commemorative malt forward brown ale http://bellsbeer.com/news/166-Celebrate%2030%20years%20at%20Ashley%E2%80%99s%20with%20special%20events%20and%20commemorative%20malt%20forward%20brown%20ale <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/b2ceb893944be4bb48a6b01bef6db9a1.JPG" alt="27AshleysTaps.JPG" height="321" width="429">We are marking an important milestone in the Ann Arbor and Michigan craft beer community with a special brew along with some exceptional events at <a href="http://www.ashleys.com/">Ashley’s</a>.</p> <p>The recipe for Ashley’s 30<sup>th</sup> Anniversary Ale was written by Larry Bell and inspired by the month of February – a time of year when a little comfort goes a long way.</p> <p>It is also a nod to a time when both Ashley’s and Bell’s first got their start and beers were much more malt driven rather than hop focused.</p> <p>The aroma is full of toasted and caramel malts along with dark fruit notes, lightly balanced by a touch of herbal hops in the background.</p> <p>Nine specialty grains lend a broad range of toasty, biscuit and bittersweet flavors matched to a deep caramel character.</p> <p>This very drinkable and limited brown ale is available only on draft and exclusively at Ashley’s – both in Ann Arbor and Westland. The first keg will be tapped at 3 p.m. on Feb. 1 in Ann Arbor with a celebratory toast at 6 p.m.</p> <p>Here’s to another thirty!</p> <h2>Also coming up</h2> <h3>Feb. 5</h3> <p><strong>30 for 30* Party</strong>: We will be celebrating all day. Stop by for lunch and chat with our reps.</p> <p><em>Jazzy Hour </em>will begin at 3 p.m. with the taping of our Jazz Series (Le Batteur, Le Pianiste and Le Contrabassiste) along with This One Goes to 11.</p> <p>At 4 p.m., sit in on Bell's Beer 101 and learn about the history of our brewery, the brewing process and finish with some beer and cheese pairings. Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot today.</p> <p>There will be two opportunities to spin the Wheel of Prizes and answer trivia, compete against us in a Minute To Win It style challenge and a few other activities to win some Bell's gear (6 p.m. and 9 p.m.).</p> <p><strong>Also on tap:</strong> Amber Ale, Ashley’s 30th Anniversary Ale, Best Brown Ale, Bourbon Barrel Aged Kalamazoo Stout on Nitro (6:30 p.m. tapping), Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000 (7 p.m. tapping), Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout &nbsp;(8 p.m. tapping), Captain Spontaneous, 2011 Cherry Stout, Special Double Cream Stout, Harry Magill’s Spiced Stout , Hell Hath No Fury, Hopslam, Hopsoulution, Kalamazoo Stout, Lager of the Lakes, Pale Ale , Oarsman Ale, Oatmeal Stout, Porter, Raspberry Ale, Red Nose ESB, Roundhouse IRA, Smitten, Smoked Vienna Lager , Sparkling Ale , Third Coast Beer, Third Coast Old Ale, This One Goes to 11, Two Hearted Ale and Winter White Ale</p> <h3>Feb. 12</h3> <p><strong>Fat Tuesday</strong>: Consecrator Doppelbock will be available all day along with paczkis (while supplies last). A firkin of Hopslam will be taped at 6:30 p.m.</p> <h3>Feb. 20</h3> <p><strong>DARK</strong><strong></strong>: Join us as we indulge in the DARK side of the malt with Black Note, Expedition Stout, Hell Hath No Fury ... Ale and 2011 Cherry Stout among others starting at 6:30 p.m.</p> <p><strong>PHOTO CAPTION:</strong> 27 Bell's beers on tap at Ashley's back in October 2012</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-01-30T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Tap takeovers, Hopslam tappings, Ashley's 30th Anniversary and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/165-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Tap%20takeovers%2C%20Hopslam%20tappings%2C%20Ashley%27s%2030th%20Anniversary%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/2013/5939/5502/SamsQuik_Winterfest.jpg" alt="SamsQuik_Winterfest.jpg" height="644" width="417">Below is a look at our events this week in Michigan, Missouri, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Florida, North Carolina, Georgia, Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Through Feb. 3</h3> <p><strong>“I Love Beer Mini Tour:”</strong> <a href="http://www.oldchicago.com/portage">Old Chicago</a> in Portage - Hopslam, Two Hearted and Captain Spontaneous on draft. Bottle options are also available.</p> <h3>Jan. 30</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover: </strong><a href="http://www.twisted-rooster.com/">Twisted Rooster</a> in Chesterfield at 7 p.m. - Hopslam, Winter White, Two Hearted, Rednose ESB, Sparkling Ale and Harry Magill's Spiced Stout</p> <h3>Jan. 31</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover: </strong><a href="http://www.littlejoesrestaurant.com/home.html">Little Joe's</a> in Grand Blanc at 6 p.m. - Two Hearted, Winter White, Smitten, Hopslam, Sparkling Ale, This one goes to 11, Captain Spontaneous, Best Brown, Black Note, Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, Midwestern Pale Ale and Lager of the Lakes</p> <h3>Feb. 1</h3> <p><strong>Smitten at <a href="http://mittenbar.com">The Mitten</a> Release Party: </strong>Ludington at 5 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Ashley's 30th Anniversary Release:</strong> <a href="http://ashleys.com/index.html">Ashley's Ann Arbor </a>at 3 p.m.&nbsp; – Join us for the celebratory tapping of our special beer brewed to commemorate this very special occasion.</p> <h2>Missouri</h2> <h3>Jan. 28</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Firkin Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.beerknurd.com/stores/kansascity/">Flying Saucer</a> in Kansas City at 7 p.m.</p> <h3>Jan. 29</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://sycamorerestaurant.com/">Sycamore </a>in Columbia – Call 573-874-8090 for more information.</p> <h3>Jan. 30</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Firkin Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://internationaltaphouse.com/">iTap Soulard</a> in St. Louis at 6 p.m.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Jan. 28<br><strong></strong></h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://muddypig.com/">The Muddy Pig</a> in St. Paul at 6 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Hopslam Tapping:<a href="http://www.thebulldoglowertown.com/"> </a></strong><a href="http://www.thebulldoglowertown.com/">Bulldog Lowerton</a> in St. Paul at 4 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Hopslam Tapping: </strong><a href="http://www.thebdp.com">Blue Door Pub</a> in St. Paul (tapped at 11 a.m.)</p> <p><strong>Hopslam Pub Crawl Stop #1: </strong><a href="http://nicksthirdfloor.com/">DB Searle's</a> in St. Cloud at 5 p.m. - This event is part of a progressive pub crawl over three nights, Jan. 28-30. Visit all three locations (which also includes Boulder Tap House and Old Capitol Tavern - see below). Get your card punched when you purchase a Hopslam. Turn in the card at Old Capitol Tavern on Jan. 30 for a chance to win a prize or better yet, the grand prize. Drawing will be held at 8 p.m. and you must be present to win.</p> <p><strong>Hopslam Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.3squaresrestaurant.com">3 Squares</a> in Maple Grove at 6 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Hopslam Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://bullfrogcajunbar.com/">Bulldog Downtown</a> in Minneapolis at 4 p.m.</p> <h3>Jan. 29</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Pub Crawl Stop #2:</strong> <a href="http://bouldertaphouse.com/">Boulder Tap House</a> in St. Cloud at 5 p.m. - don't forget to get your card stamped (see above, below)</p> <p><strong>Tappin' Tuesday:</strong> <a href="http://butcherandtheboar.com/">The Butcher &amp; The Boar </a>in Minneapolis at 6 p.m. - Hopslam, Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, and Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout</p> <h3>Jan. 30</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Pub Crawl Stop #3 (final night):</strong> <a href="http://www.oldcapitaltavern.com/">Old Capitol Tavern</a> in Sauk Rapids from 5-8 p.m.&nbsp; - Te final night of our progressive pub crawl which started Jan. 28.&nbsp; Don't forget to turn in your completed card for a chance to win. Drawing will be held at 8 p.m. and you must be present. We'll also be featuring Black Note, Third Coast Old Ale, Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000 and Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout.</p> <h3>Jan. 31</h3> <p><strong>Bell's IPA Night: </strong><a href="http://www.gingerhop.com/">Ginger Hop </a>in Minneapolis at 5 p.m. - Two Hearted, Roundhouse and Hosplam</p> <h3>Feb. 1</h3> <p><strong>"Inundated"....A Night of 21 Bell's Beers:</strong> Patrick's in St. Peter at 6 p.m. - Two Hearted, Rye Stout, Debs' Red, Smitten, our entire Jazz Series, Smoked Vienna Lager, Black Note, Sparkling Ale, Roundhouse, Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, BBA Cherry Stout, Harry Magill's Spiced Stout, 2011 Cherry Stout, Oatmeal Stout, Raspberry Ale, Wedding Ale, Expedition Stout, Third Coast Old Ale, and Hopslam</p> <p><strong>Hopslam Cask Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.thebulldognortheast.com">Bulldog NE </a>in Minneapolis at 5 p.m.</p> <h3>Feb. 2</h3> <p><strong>Best Brown Cask Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://jlbeers.com/moorhead/">JL Beers Moorehead</a> at noon</p> <h2>Pennsylvania</h2> <h3>Jan. 29</h3> <p><strong>PGH Brewmasters:</strong> <a href="http://www.badospizzagrill.com/">Bado's Pizza Grill &amp; Ale House</a> in Mt. Lebanon at 7 p.m. - Best Brown Ale, Kalamazoo Stout, Midwestern Pale Ale, Two Hearted Ale and Winter White Ale. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2697">More details here.</a></p> <h3>Jan. 31</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://bzbarandgrill.com">BZ's Bar &amp; Grill</a> in Pittsburgh at 7 p.m. - Hopslam, Amber Ale, Oarsman, Special Double Cream Stout and Smitten. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2733">Go here for more information.</a></p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Jan. 29</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Firkin Tapping: </strong><a href="http://www.tribesalehouse.com/">Tribes Alehouse</a> in Mokena</p> <h2>Jan. 31</h2> <p><strong>Hopslam Firkin Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.globalbrewtaps.com/">Global Brew Tap House &amp; Lounge</a> in O'Fallon</p> <h3>Feb. 1</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Firkin Tapping:</strong> SmallBar - Logan Square in Chicago at 7 p.m. – Smitten, Hopslam (draught) and Two Hearted will also be on tap.</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>Jan. 31</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://downtownlodge.com/">The Woods</a> in Orlando starting at 6 p.m. - limited release beers including two bourbon barrel aged favorites</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>Feb. 1</h3> <p><strong>Winterfest:</strong> <a href="http://samsquikshop.com/">Sam's Quick Shop</a> in Durham at 4:30 p.m. - Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, This one goes to 11, Harry Magill's Spiced Stout, Roundhouse, Java Stout and 2011 Cherry Stout (see image)</p> <h2>Georgia</h2> <h3>Feb. 2</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.feedyourbeak.com/">The Rooster's Beak</a> in Augusta – Call 706-364-2260 for more information.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>Jan. 31</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Tappings:</strong> <a href="http://candbpublichouse.com/">Cock and Bull Public House</a> in Glendale and Cincinnati at 5 p.m. - keep the Bell's snifter afterward</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>Jan. 31</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://candbpublichouse.com/">Cock and Bull Public House</a> in Convington at 5 p.m. - keep the Bell's snifter afterward</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Feb. 1</h3> <p><strong>Two Hearted Firkin Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.deerparkpub.com">Deer Park Pub</a> in Fort Wayne at 6 p.m. - Smitten will also be on tap.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for 33 beers on tap at Ashley’s in Ann Arbor, a tap takeover in Bedford Heights, Ohio, Hopslam cask tappings and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2">Check out our full calendar here.</a><br><br></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-01-28T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Take a look at the 2013 Oberon mini-keg design http://bellsbeer.com/news/164-Take%20a%20look%20at%20the%202013%20Oberon%20mini-keg%20design <p><img style="vertical-align: baseline; display: block; margin: 10px auto; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/e7b76a3ec5e8dad55650fa41d3bc3ff9.jpg" alt="Oberon2013MiniKeg.jpg" height="293" width="660">How about a January warm up?</p> <p>The artwork featured on this year’s 5-liter Oberon mini-keg isn’t meant to depict a specific location but capture that moment when you put your paddle down and really soak in summer, said Kent Elliott, Creative Director at <a href="http://blacklabfive.com/">Black Lab Five</a> in downtown Kalamazoo.</p> <p>“It's a mental compilation of many different summer trips on rivers and lakes in northern Michigan, with quite a bit of Isle Royale thrown in.&nbsp;I guess it's my <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/brands/#Specialty-2">Q Falls</a>,” Elliott wrote in an email.</p> <p>“My hope is that it will remind people of similar places they've been and spark fond memories,” he said.</p> <p>Does it remind you of somewhere specific? We would love to hear about it. Drop us a note or leave a comment on our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BellsBreweryInc">Facebook </a>or <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/b/109244532904663173500/109244532904663173500/posts">Google+</a> page.</p> <p>Oberon will return on March 25. Look for mini-kegs to arrive a few months after then.</p> <p>We’ll keep everyone posted on events and other details as they become available as well.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-01-25T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Manden Med Leen will be the next Bell’s homebrew competition winner to be tapped at the Eccentric Cafe http://bellsbeer.com/news/163-Manden%20Med%20Leen%20will%20be%20the%20next%20%20Bell%E2%80%99s%20homebrew%20competition%20winner%20to%20be%20tapped%20at%20the%20Eccentric%20Cafe <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/572e8d14e7c326269a70597d76935f49.jpg" alt="IMG_8666.jpg" height="251" width="378">KALAMAZOO – The winner of <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/blog/146-Winners_of_Bell___s_3rd_Annual_Homebrew_Competition_announced">Bell’s Third Annual Homebrew Competition</a> will be tapped at 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 26 at the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Café </a>in downtown Kalamazoo.</p> <p>Nick Rodammer’s, Manden Med Leen (Danish for grim reaper), is a black IPA brewed with Belgian yeast, barley from the <a title="Bell's Farm" href="/about/farm/">Bell’s Farm</a> in Shepherd, Michigan and a blend of other U.S. and European malts.</p> <p>It was dry hopped three separate times with Amarillo, Galaxy and Zeus hops. These same hops were also used in the kettle along with Michigan grown Chinook hops.</p> <p>The first things people should notice is a lot of hop aroma and flavor, Rodammer said.</p> <p>The beer has a rich tropical fruit aroma with a subtle dark malt character and an ABV of 6.95%.</p> <p>“I wanted to brew something a little outside the box for this competition,” Rodammer said.</p> <p>After putting together a few different ideas he settled on merging three IPA styles - Black, Rye and Belgian.</p> <p>“I wanted it to be black in color but not roasty, for the rye and Belgian character to really be background notes and I wanted to make sure there was a good malt backbone to it as well,” he said.</p> <p>“With so much going on I didn't want to overshadow the hops, but I think it really melded together quite well.”</p> <p>The Grand Rapids resident has been homebrewing for about a year. His first two batches were pre-packaged kits. He went all grain after those and has designed all of his recipes since then.&nbsp;</p> <p>“I hope this shows that you don't have to have been homebrewing for years to make good beer. &nbsp;Anyone who is passionate about brewing and takes the time to learn about the art and science of the craft can apply what they learn and brew beer they are proud to share with others,” Rodammer said.</p> <p>For more about the Third Annual Bell's Homebrew Competition, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/blog/146-Winners_of_Bell___s_3rd_Annual_Homebrew_Competition_announced">go here.</a></p> <p><strong>CAPTION:</strong> Nick Rodammer helps brew his winning recipe at Bell's original brewery in downtown Kalamazoo.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-01-22T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Hopslam, Smitten, firkins, tap takeovers and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/162-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Hopslam%2C%20Smitten%2C%20firkins%2C%20tap%20takeovers%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/b4767dfe189f77e848e80aa5b107f609.png" alt="SmittenAle_Label.png" height="357" width="363">Below is a look at our events this week in Michigan, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, North Dakota, North Carolina and Minnesota.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Through Feb. 3</h3> <p><strong>“I Love Beer Mini Tour:”</strong> <a href="http://www.oldchicago.com/portage">Old Chicago</a> in Portage - Hopslam, Two Hearted and Captain Spontaneous on draft. Bottle options are also be available.</p> <h3>Through Jan. 27</h3> <p><a href="http://www.kalamazoorestaurantweek.com/"><strong>Downtown Kalamazoo Restaurant Week:</strong></a> <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2748">Food Dance</a>, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2749">Central City Tap House</a>, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2750">Webster's Prime</a>, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2751">Zazio's</a> and <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2752">Beer Exchange</a> are all featuring special menus. Look for specialty pairings and draft selections as well.</p> <h3>Jan. 22</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tap Explosion:</strong> <a href="http://www.oldburdicks.com/">Old Burdick's</a> at Wing's West in Kalamazoo at 6 p.m. - Hopslam, Sweet Potato Stout, Harvest Ale, Hell Hath No Fury, Captain Spontaneous and more</p> <h3>Jan. 24</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Firkin Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.millenniumrestaurants.com/central-city-tap-house/">Central City Tap House</a> in Kalamazoo at 5 p.m.</p> <h3>Jan. 25</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tap Takeover:</strong> <a href="http://www.8thstreetgrille.com/">8th Street Grille</a> in Holland - Black Note, Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout, Hopslam, This One Goes to 11, Captain Spontaneous, Smoked Vienna Lager, Third Coast, Two Hearted, Sparkling Ale, Amber Ale, Winter White, Midwestern Pale Ale and Java Stout. BBA beers will be tapped at 8 p.m. and entertainment starts at 9 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Hopslam Tapping: </strong><a href="http://treetops.com/">Treetops Resort </a>in Graylord at 5 p.m. - Two Hearted, Oarsman, Winter White and Best Brown will be available as well.</p> <h2>Pennsylvania</h2> <h3>Jan. 22</h3> <p><strong>Bacon Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.harrisgrill.com/">Harris Grill</a> in Pittsburgh at 6:30 p.m. - Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout and Smitten Golden Rye Ale</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>Jan. 22</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Barrel Aged Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.thebeertrappe.com/">The Beer Trappe</a> in Lexington at 4 p.m. - Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000 and Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout</p> <p><strong>Hopslam Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://lexingtonbeerworks.com/home/">Lexington Beer Works</a> at 3 p.m. - Java Stout, Two Hearted, Midwestern Pale Ale, Expedition Stout, and Winter White will also be on tap.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Jan. 23</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Release Party:</strong> <a href="http://www.deerparkpub.com">Deer Park Pub</a> in Fort Wayne at 5 p.m. – giveaways and a surprise firkin</p> <h3>Jan. 24</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Release Party:</strong> <a href="http://dickyswildhare.com/">Dicky's Wild Hare</a> in Fort Wayne at 5 p.m.</p> <h3>Jan. 25</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Release Party:</strong> Flat Rock Tap in Hammond at 5 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Hopslam Release Party:</strong> <a href="http://www.triontavern.com">Trion Tavern</a> in New Haven from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. - Smitten Golden Rye Ale and Captain Spontaneous Ale will also be on tap.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h2>Jan. 23</h2> <p><strong>Bell's Night: </strong><a href="http://WOBusa.com/evanston">World of Beer in Evanston</a> at 3 p.m. - Smitten, Oarsman, Expedition Stout, Java Stout, Best Brown, Two Hearted, Amber and at 7 p.m. - Hopslam</p> <h3>Jan. 24</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Firkin Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.binnys.com/">Binny’s South Loop Tasting Room</a> in Chicago from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Reservations are required. Please call 312-768-4400.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>Jan. 23</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.oldbagof nails.com">Old Bag of Nails</a>, Mason at 7 p.m. - Two Hearted, Smitten and Third Coast Old Ale will be on tap too.</p> <h3>Jan. 26</h3> <p><strong>Multi-Tap Event:</strong> <a href="http://www.chappystaproom.com">Chappy's</a> in Dayton at 1 p.m. - more than 10 Bell's beers on tap including Hopslam and Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout</p> <h3>Jan. 27</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night:</strong> <a href="http://friescafe.com/">Fries Café</a> in Cincinnati at 5 p.m. - Hoplsam, Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout, Expedition Stout as well as our Jazz Series of beers</p> <h2>North Dakota</h2> <h3>Jan. 24</h3> <p><strong>Stout Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.hoteldonaldson.com">Ho Do Lounge</a> in Fargo at 5 p.m. - Harry Magill's Spiced Stout, Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout, Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, Black Note, Double Cream Stout and Expedition Stout</p> <h3>Jan. 26</h3> <p><strong>Best Brown Cask Tapping:</strong><a href="http://jlbeers.com/westfargo/"> JL Beers West</a> in Fargo at noon</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>Jan. 26</h3> <p><strong>Raleigh Rare and Vintage Beer Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://www.tylerstaproom.com/">Tylers Restaurant</a> in Raleigh from 3-6 p.m. (imperial tasting begins at 2 p.m.) – We will be pouring Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Jan. 26</h3> <p><a href="http://www.thebeerdabbler.com/"><strong>Winter Carnival Beer Dabbler:</strong></a> In St. Paul from 3:30-7:30 p.m. - Best Brown Ale, Smitten, Roundhouse, Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000 and Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout</p> <h3>Jan. 27</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Midnight Release Party:</strong> <a href="http://bryantlakebowl.com/">Bryant Lake Bowl </a>in Minneapolis</p> <p><strong>Hopslam Midnight Release Party:</strong> <a href="http://www.thebulldognortheast.com/">The Bulldog NE</a> in Minneapolis</p> <p><strong>Hopslam Midnight Release Party:</strong> <a href="http://www.thebulldogmpls.com/">Bulldog Uptown</a> in Minneapolis</p> <p><strong>Hopslam Midnight Release Party:</strong> <a href="http://busterson28th.com/">Buster's on 28<sup>th</sup> </a>in Minneapolis</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for a Hopslam firkin tapping in Kansas City, dinner in Missouri, a tap takeover in Grand Blanc, Michigan and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Our full calendar can be found here.</a> And there are already quite a few events planned for February as well ...</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-01-22T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's Vintage Tasting will include a special charity auction to benefit Fair Food Matters in Kalamazoo http://bellsbeer.com/news/161-Bell%27s%20Vintage%20Tasting%20will%20include%20a%20special%20charity%20auction%20to%20benefit%20Fair%20Food%20Matters%20in%20Kalamazoo <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/59f61bd0a565f04fa8c52a827cfb2563.jpg" alt="VintageBeerAuctionSM.jpg" height="369" width="277"><a href="http://www.kalamazoobeerweek.com/">Kalamazoo Beer Week</a> may officially end on Friday, but we still have one more event on Jan. 19.</p> <p>Our Vintage Tasting at the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Cafe </a>will be similar to a mini beer festival but will also include a special charity auction to benefit <a href="http://www.fairfoodmatters.org/">Fair Food Matters,</a> a local nonprofit in Kalamazoo.</p> <p>Up for auction:</p> <ul> <li> One 3 liter bottle of The Oracle</li> <li> One 3 liter bottle of 2012 Black Note</li> <li> 2 4-packs of 1995 Expedition Stout (<a href="http://www.greatamericanbeerfestival.com/">Great American Beer Festival</a> gold medal winner, Aged Beer Category, 2011)</li> <li> 1 6-pack of Cherry Stout Reserve 2001, aged over cherry pits and oak chips</li> <li> 1 6-pack of Batch 6000</li> <li> 1 6-pack of Third Coast Old Ale, Batch #6197</li> <li>Vintage Bell's gear</li> </ul> <p>Saturday's event will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.</p> <p>Admission is $10 and includes 4 drink tickets plus a commemorative tasting glass.</p> <p>Additional tickets can be purchased for $1 each with most samples ranging in price from $1 to $2 (each sample is two to three ounces).</p> <p>Bottles will also be available to purchase and will be priced accordingly.</p> <h3>THE BEER LIST</h3> <p><strong>On draft:</strong></p> <ul> <li>2007 Cherry Stout - Batch 8201</li> <li> 2010 Expedition Stout - Batch 9931</li> <li> 2007 Third Coast Old Ale - Batch 8211</li> <li> 2008 Eccentric Ale</li> <li> Batch 7000 (2005)</li> <li> 2011 Black Note</li> </ul> <p><em><strong>Note:</strong> These beers will be available on their own or as part of a sampler.</em></p> <p><strong>Bottles:</strong></p> <ul> <li>2008 Eccentric Ale</li> <li> 2003 Eccentric Ale</li> <li> 2004 Eccentric Ale</li> <li> 2005 Eccentric Ale</li> <li> 2001 Eccentric Ale</li> <li> 1999 Eccentric Ale</li> <li> Third Coast Old Ale - Batch 8723 (2008)</li> <li> Third Coast Old Ale - Batch 8863 (2008)</li> <li> Third Coast Old Ale - Batch 8943 (2009)</li> <li> Expedition Stout - Batch 8183 (2007)</li> <li> Expedition Stout - Batch 8728 (2008)</li> <li> Expedition Stout - Batch 8944 (2009)</li> <li> Cherry Stout - Batch 8730 (2008)</li> <li> Cherry Stout - Batch 8957 (2009)</li> <li> Cherry Stout - Batch 9434 (2009)</li> </ul> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-01-15T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Kalamazoo Beer Week continues, Hopslam, sliders and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/160-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Kalamazoo%20Beer%20Week%20continues%2C%20Hopslam%2C%20sliders%20and%20more%20 <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/3713/5672/5674/KBW13Logo.png" alt="KBW13Logo.png" height="270" width="270">Below is a look at our events this week in Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Minnesota, South Carolina and Florida.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Jan. 14</h3> <p><a href="http://www.kalamazoobeerweek.com/"><strong>Kalamazoo Beer Week:</strong></a> Homebrew Demo with the Bell's General Store at <a href="http://fooddance.net">Food Dance</a> in Kalamazoo from 6-8 p.m.</p> <h3>Jan. 15</h3> <p><a href="http://www.kalamazoobeerweek.com/"><strong>Kalamazoo Beer Week:</strong></a> <a href="http://www.zazios.com/">Zazio's</a> Chef's Table with <a href="http://mattawancreamery.com/">Mattawan Artisan Creamery</a> in Kalamazoo at 5:30 p.m. (happy hour) at 6 p.m. (dinner).<a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2638"> Take a look at the menu (vegetarian options are available)</a>.</p> <p><strong>Kalamazoo Beer Week:</strong> Brewer's Happy Hour &amp; Brew and View at the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Cafe.</a> This is a rare opportunity to meet the people who make Bell’s beer in The Back Room at the Cafe from 5 to 7 p.m. for some informal beer discussion. Snacks will be provided and be sure to stick around afterward for a special beer themed Brew &amp; View (free admission).</p> <h3>Jan. 16</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam and Sliders: </strong><a href="http://greendotstables.com/">Green Dot Stables</a> in Detroit from 5-9 p.m. Mix and match from an extensive menu.</p> <p><strong>“I Love Beer Mini Tour:”</strong> <a href="http://www.oldchicago.com/portage">Old Chicago</a> in Portage at 4 p.m. (this special will continue through Feb. 3) - Hopslam, Two Hearted and Captain Spontaneous on draft. Bottle options will also be available.</p> <p><strong>Kalamazoo Beer Week:</strong> Homebrew Demonstration at the Eccentric Cafe from 6-9 p.m. Bring your questions and your friends - all skill levels welcome.</p> <p><strong>Kalamazoo Beer Week: </strong>Bourbon Barrel Aged Beer, Smoked Meats and Cheese Tasting from 5-9 p.m. - Along with various smoked meats and cheeses, the Eccentric Café will be serving up bourbon barrel aged versions of Cherry Stout, Batch 9,000, Kalamazoo Stout (also a firkin) and Expedition Stout. Black Note will also be on tap. Order a flight and get a sidecar of Lager of the Lakes as well.</p> <h3>Jan. 17</h3> <p><a href="http://www.kalamazoobeerweek.com/"><strong>Kalamazoo Beer Week:</strong></a> Minute To Win It Party at <a href="http://www.shakespearespub.com/">Shakespeare's Pub</a> in Kalamazoo at 7 p.m. - Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout, Raspberry Ale, Two Hearted, Amber and Winter White. Challenge the Bell’s team (and others) to four rounds of short challenges similar to the TV show “A Minute To Win It” and compete for prizes.</p> <p><strong>This Tap Takeover Goes to 11: </strong><a href="http://www.stardustbowling.com/">Stardust </a>in Saginaw at 6 p.m. - Black Note, Sparkling Ale, Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout, This one goes to 11, Midwestern Pale Ale, Best Brown, Two Hearted, Porter, Captain Spontaneous, Kalamazoo Stout and Hopslam.</p> <p><strong>Hopslam Release Party:</strong> <a href="http://shamrockutica.com/">Shamrock Pub</a> in Utica at 6 p.m. - Amber, Porter, Winter White and Two Hearted will also be on tap.</p> <p><strong>Kalamazoo Beer Week: </strong>Jazz Series Tasting with special musical guests Big Organ Trio at the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Cafe </a>starting at 9:30 p.m. Our Jazz Series - Le Pianiste, Le Contrabassiste and Le Batteur - will come together for a perfect pairing of great beer and live jazz music starting at 9:30 p.m. There is no cover for the music.</p> <h3>Jan. 18</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://www.kalamazoobeerweek.com/">Kalamazoo Beer Week</a> - 2nd Annual Bell's Beer Dinner hosted by Larry Bell:</strong> <a href="http://parkclub.net/">The Park Club</a> in Kalamazoo at 6:30 p.m. (happy hour) and 7 p.m. (dinner). <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2642">Take a look at the menu (vegetarian options are available).</a> For reservations, please call 269-381-0876.</p> <p><strong>Tap Takeover:</strong> <a href="http://www.baronburger.com/">The Red Baron</a> in Burton/Flint - Sweet Potato Stout, Sparkling Ale, Black Note, Hell Hath No Fury, Midwestern Pale Ale, Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, Two Hearted, Captain Spontaneous, Kalamazoo Stout, Winter White, Lager of the Lakes and HOPSLAM.</p> <h3>Jan. 19</h3> <p><strong>4th Annual Beer &amp; Boards:</strong> <a href="http://www.shantycreek.com/">Shanty Creek Resorts</a> in Bellaire at 3 p.m. - Winter White, Best Brown, Hopslam and Porter</p> <p><strong>Kalamazoo Beer Week:</strong> Vintage Bell's Beer Tasting at the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Cafe</a> from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. A silent auction for charity will include vintage Bell's gear and beer.<strong> </strong>$10 admission includes 4 drink tickets and a commemorative tasting glass. Additional tickets can be purchased for $1 each with most samples ranging in price from $1 to $2 (each sample is two to three ounces). Bottles will be priced accordingly.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Jan. 15</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Tapping Party:</strong> <a href="http://www.chumleysbarlafayette.com/">Chumley's</a> in Lafayette from 6-10 p.m. Two Hearted will also be on tap.</p> <h3>Jan. 17</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Release Party (plus firkin):</strong> <a href="http://www.fiddlershearth.com/">Fiddler's Hearth </a>in South Bend at 5 p.m. - Rednose ESB, Harvest Ale, Roundhouse IRA, Two Hearted, Midwestern Pale Ale and Golden Rye will also be on tap</p> <h3>Jan. 18</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Release Party:</strong> <a href="http://www.tiltedkilt.com">Tilted Kilt</a> in Granger at 5 p.m.</p> <h3>Jan. 19</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Firkin Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.beergeekspub.com/">Beer Geeks</a> in Highland at 7 p.m.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>Jan. 14</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.cometbar.com">The Comet</a> in Cincinnati at 5 p.m.</p> <h3>Jan. 16</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Tapping: </strong><a href="http://vewinebeer.com/">Vintage Estates </a>in Boardman at 7 p.m.</p> <h3>Jan. 18</h3> <p><strong>Barrel Aged Beer Festival:</strong> <a href="http://www.junglejims.com">Jungle Jim's </a>in Fairfield from 7-9 p.m. – Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Jan. 17</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Stout Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.whistlebinkiespub.com/">Whistle Binkies</a> in Rochester at 6 p.m. - Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout, Black Note and Harry Magill's Spiced Stout</p> <h3>Jan. 18</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Cask Ale Night:</strong> Patrick's in St. Peter at 6 p.m. – Two Hearted</p> <h2>South Carolina</h2> <h3>Jan. 19</h3> <p><strong>The Biggest Little Beerfest:</strong> <a href="http://www.barleysgville.com/">Barley's Tap Room</a> in Greenville from 2-6 p.m.</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>Jan. 16</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Meet &amp; Greet:</strong> The Little House in Boynton Beach starting at 6 p.m. Raffles and giveaways plus Amber, Best Brown, Oberon, Special Double Cream Stout and Two Hearted.</p> <h3>Jan. 18</h3> <p><strong>Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000 Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://wobusa.com/">World of Beer - Tampa Palms</a> at 7 p.m. - Amber, Oberon, and Two Hearted will also be on tap.</p> <h3>Jan. 19</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://miamibeerfestival.com/">Miami Beer Festival:</a></strong> <a href="http://miami.marlins.mlb.com/mia/ballpark/index.jsp">Marlins Park</a> from 7-10 p.m. (general admission).&nbsp; We'll be pouring Amber, Oberon, Two Hearted and one specialty release.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Bacon Night in Pittsburgh, a Hopslam firkin tapping in Kalamazoo, Stout Night in Fargo and more on our calendar for next week. <a href="https://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look at our full calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-01-14T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Hopslam, stouts, Kalamazoo Beer Week and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/159-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Hopslam%2C%20stouts%2C%20Kalamazoo%20Beer%20Week%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/4612/8386/7472/KBC-HopslamAle-lable.small.crush.png" alt="KBC HopslamAle lable.tif.png" height="352" width="359">Below is a look at our events this week in Michigan, Indiana, Minnesota and Ohio.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Jan. 8</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Release Party:</strong> <a href="http://ashleys.com/index.html">Ashley's Ann Arbor</a> at 6 p.m. The author of the best toast will get to purchase the first pint of the year and have their words read aloud to start the season off right. To enter, email your best toast to Hopslam to <a href="mailto:toast@bellsbeer.com">toast@bellsbeer.com</a>.</p> <h3>Jan. 9</h3> <p><strong>Hail to the Hops:</strong> <a href="http://fraserspubaa.com/">Fraser's Pub</a> in Ann Arbor. Beginning at 5 p.m., we will tap Hopslam and a Two Hearted firkin. We will also feature some other heavy hop hitters: Hopsoulution, This one goes to 11, Captain Spontaneous and Two Hearted.</p> <p><strong>Hopslam Release Party:</strong> <a href="http://oneeyedbettys.com/">One Eyed Betty's in</a> Ferndale at 6 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Hopslam Release Party:</strong><a href="http://www.karlscabin.com/"> Karl's Cabin</a> in Plymouth from 6-11 p.m. Special musical guest The Flutter &amp; Wow will keep the party "hopping." Amber Ale, Two Hearted and Winter White will also be available. Reservations are recommended. Please call ahead -734-455-8450.</p> <p><strong>Bell's Black Party:</strong> <a href="http://www.crunchyseastlansing.com">Crunchy's</a> in East Lansing at 6 p.m. Celebrate the dark side of beer with tappings of Black Note, Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, Smoked Vienna Lager, Expedition Stout, Special Double Cream Stout, Harry Magill's Spiced Stout, Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout, Kal-Haven Ale and Hell Hath No Fury. Hopslam and Two Hearted will also be available.</p> <h3>Jan. 10</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Tap Explosion:</strong><a href="http://www.7monkstap.com"> 7 Monks Taproom</a> in Traverse City at 5 p.m. Celebrate Hopslam's return with 2011 Third Coast Old Ale, 2012 Third Coast Old Ale, Captain Spontaneous, Java Stout, Midwestern Pale Ale, Sparkling Ale, Best Brown, Two Hearted, This one goes to 11, Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout and Hell Hath No Fury.</p> <p><strong>Hopslam Release Party:<a href="http://www.ashleys.com/"> </a></strong><a href="http://www.ashleys.com/">Ashley's Westland</a> at 6 p.m. The wheel of prizes will also be in attendance.</p> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.sanchezbistro.com/">San Chez Bistro</a> in Grand Rapids at 6:30 p.m. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2547">Take a look at the menu</a>.</p> <h3>Jan. 11</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tap Takeover:</strong> <a href="http://www.oliverasrestaurant.com/">Olivera's Pizzeria</a> in Ionia from 5 p.m. to close. We’re taking over all of the taps with 8 different Bell's beers including Black Note, Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000 &amp; Cherry Stout plus Hopslam!</p> <h3>Jan. 12</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://www.kalamazoobeerweek.com/">Kalamazoo Beer Week Kick-off:</a> </strong>Bell’s Brewery Snow Jog Adventure Race and Challenge at 11 a.m. (registration) and noon (start) at the Eccentric Cafe. For more information, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/blog/157-Complete_list__Bell_s_events_for_Kalamazoo_Beer_Week_2013">go here</a>.</p> <h3>Jan. 13</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Poetry Slam: </strong><a href="http://www.taproomypsi.com/">The Tap Room i</a>n Ypsilanti at 5 p.m. 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes for your best Hopslam poems! On tap: Hopslam (of course), This one goes to 11, Best Brown and Captain Spontaneous.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Jan. 10</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Class: </strong><a href="http://www.s-dliquor.com/">Westside Liquor </a>in Willmar from 6-7:30 p.m. Jason Gillum will talk about our brewery and brand history. He will also lead a sampling of a number of Bell's offerings and discuss style, history and how each made it into the Bell's portfolio.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Jan. 8</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Release Party:</strong> <a href="http://www.ale-emporium.com">The Ale Emporium</a> in Indianapolis starting at 5 p.m. Christmas Ale, Two Hearted, Best Brown, Winter White, The Oracle and Captain Spontaneous will also be featured on draft in addition to bottles of This one goes to 11, Hell Hath No Fury and Kalamazoo Stout.</p> <h3>Jan. 12</h3> <p><strong>South Bend BrewFest:</strong> <a href="http://centurycenter.org/event/brewfest-2013">Century Center Great Hall </a>from 1-5 p.m. &nbsp;Come and check out the Bell's table at this years festival! Tickets are $35 and include a commemorative glass, program and food coupon. Designated driver tickets are available for $10 and include a food coupon and unlimited soda/water. Tickets are available online.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>Jan. 13</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam Kick-off:</strong> <a href="http://www.tremonttaphouse.com">Tremont TapHouse</a> in Cleveland at 3:30 p.m. Come early for brunch and stay for the Hopslam.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Kalamazoo Beer Week gets into full gear, more Hopslam, Stout Night in Minnesota and much more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2">Take a look at our full calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-01-08T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News New Bell’s seasonal, Smitten Golden Rye Ale, debuts in February http://bellsbeer.com/news/158-New%20Bell%E2%80%99s%20seasonal%2C%20Smitten%20Golden%20Rye%20Ale%2C%20debuts%20in%20February <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/670224189198db6790657592e8bb38d0.png" alt="SmittenAle_Label.png" height="352" width="358">With a new year comes to a new addition to the Bell’s seasonal spring lineup.</p> <p>In early February, Bell’s Smitten Golden Rye Ale will be released on draft and in six-packs&nbsp; - just in time to help transition into warmer days.</p> <p>Coming in at 6% ABV, Smitten pours a hazy gold appearance.</p> <p>&nbsp;“This is the perfect beer to help brighten those gray winter days and help warm your heart,” said Laura Bell, Marketing Director for Bell’s Brewery, Inc.</p> <p>Drawn from one of Larry Bell’s oldest recipes, Smitten<em> </em>began as part of a series of rye beers at the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Café</a> in downtown Kalamazoo, where a variety of new and old favorites are still brewed right next door at Bell’s original location.</p> <p>That series also included Black Rye, Rye Stout and Kal-Haven Ale.</p> <p>A combination of sharp citrus and resinous flavors from the Pacific Northwest hops with the earthy, rustic overtones of the rye malt yield an interesting and refreshing take on the American Pale Ale.</p> <p>Formerly called Golden Rye Ale, Smitten is the first new regular bottle release since Oarsman Ale debuted as a year round offering in 2010.</p> <p>For more information on where to find Smitten as well as other Bell’s beers, please visit <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/brands/brand-finder/">the Bell’s Beer Finder online</a> or contact your local retailer.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-01-07T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Complete list: Bell's events for Kalamazoo Beer Week 2013 http://bellsbeer.com/news/157-Complete%20list%3A%20Bell%27s%20events%20for%20Kalamazoo%20Beer%20Week%202013 <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/3713/5672/5674/KBW13Logo.png" alt="KBW13Logo.png" height="270" width="270">This year’s <a href="http://www.kalamazoobeerweek.com/">Kalamazoo Beer Week</a> is shaping up to be another one for the record books with more than 80 events as of this posting.</p> <p>We have 12 planned at various locations in downtown Kalamazoo, not to mention <a title="Tours" href="/visit/tours/">our regularly scheduled tours at both of our breweries</a>.</p> <p>There is even one additional event – a special vintage tasting on Jan. 19 (because we just couldn't fit everything we wanted to do in just one week). Take a look below for details and keep an eye on our social media sites (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/BellsBreweryInc">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/BellsBrewery">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/b/109244532904663173500/109244532904663173500/posts">Google+</a>) for updates as well.</p> <h2>Jan. 12</h2> <h3>Bell’s Snow Jog Adventure Race and Challenge</h3> <p>Teams of two will compete to finish our downtown race course with stops and challenges at University Roadhouse, <a href="http://www.theupandunder.com/">Up &amp; Under</a>, <a href="http://harveyskazoo.com/">Harvey's</a>, <a href="http://shakespearespub.com/">Shakespeare's Pub</a>, <a href="http://kalamazoobeerexchange.com/">The Kalamazoo Beer Exchange</a>, <a href="http://www.millenniumrestaurants.com/union-cabaret-and-grille/">The Union</a> and Green Top. Those who complete more than half of the challenges will receive a special commemorative prize. Those who complete all of them will be entered into a grand prize drawing as well. Registration will begin at 11 a.m. at the Eccentric Cafe. Awards and prizes will be presented at 3:30 p.m. Please keep in mind you must be present to win. Cookies and fruit will also be available for post race fuel.</p> <p>Bring canned food or other nonperishable items to donate as a portion of the proceeds from the event (along with donated items) will go to a local charity.</p> <p><strong>Cost:</strong> $25 per team</p> <h2>Jan. 13</h2> <h3>Sunday Beer Brunch</h3> <p>Join us for brunch in <a title="The Back Room" href="/eccentric-cafe/the-back-room/">The Back Room</a> at the Cafe from noon to 3 p.m. We'll have a variety of foods to choose from (menu to come) along with black velvets (stout + champagne), bloody beer, mimosas, sangria, Java Stout, Oatmeal Stout and Sweet Potato Stout. Pajamas are encouraged. Members of <a href="http://www.whohitjohn.com/">Who Hit John?</a> will also perform.</p> <p><strong>Cost: </strong>$15 per person</p> <h3>Beer Trivia Night</h3> <p>In honor of the third annual Kalamazoo Beer Week, all questions at this week's Trivia Night, from 6-8 p.m., will be beer related.</p> <p><strong>Cost: </strong>Admission, as always, is free.</p> <h2>Jan. 14</h2> <h3>Homebrew Demo with the Bell's General Store</h3> <p>Our <a title="General Store" href="/index.php?cID=139">General Store</a> staff will walk you through the steps to brew your first batch of beer from 6-8 p.m. at <a href="http://fooddance.net/">Food Dance</a>. Specialty beers will include Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, Hopslam and Roundhouse. There will also be discounts for participants at the General Store, Bell's swag and raffle prizes. <a href="http://fooddance.net/events-classes">Reserve your spot online</a> or call 269-382-1888 for more information.</p> <p><strong>Cost: </strong>$38 per person, which includes beer samples and appetizers.</p> <h2>Jan. 15</h2> <h3>Zazio's Chef's Table &amp; Post Dinner Black Note Tasting</h3> <p>We are teaming up with the talented folks at <a href="http://www.zazios.com/">Zazio's</a> and <a href="http://mattawancreamery.com/">Mattawan Artisan Creamery</a> for this multi-course dinner. Our very own Laura Bell will be at the bar afterward for post dinner Black Note (this portion is open to everyone). Contact Zazio's for reservations or <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2638">go here for the menu</a>.</p> <p>Happy hour (for the dinner) is at 5:30 p.m. Dinner will start at 6:30 p.m.</p> <h3>Brewer's Happy Hour &amp; Brew and View</h3> <p>This is a rare opportunity to meet the people who make Bell’s beer in The Back Room at the Cafe from 5 to 7 p.m. for some informal beer discussion. Snacks will be provided and be sure to stick around afterward for a special beer themed Brew &amp; View (free admission).</p> <h2>Jan. 16</h2> <h3>Homebrew Demonstration</h3> <p>Bring your questions and your friends - all skill levels welcome from 6-9 p.m. at the Café.</p> <h3>Bourbon Barrel Aged Beer, Smoked Meats and Cheese Tasting</h3> <p>Along with various smoked meats and cheeses, the Café will be serving up bourbon barrel aged versions of Cherry Stout, Batch 9,000, Kalamazoo Stout (also a firkin) and Expedition Stout from 5-9 p.m. Black Note will also be on tap. Order a flight and get a sidecar of Lager of the Lakes as well.</p> <h2>Jan. 17</h2> <h3>Minute To Win It Party</h3> <p>Join us for our "Beat the Brewer" edition - 4 rounds of challenges at <a href="http://shakespearespub.com/">Shakespeare’s Pub</a> beginning at 7 p.m. Raspberry Ale, Two Hearted, Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout, Amber Ale and Winter White will be on tap.</p> <h3>Jazz Series Tasting with special musical guests Big Organ Trio</h3> <p>Big Organ Trio and our Jazz Series - Le Pianiste, Le Contrabassiste and Le Batteur - will come together for a perfect pairing of great beer and live jazz music starting at 9:30 p.m. There is no cover for the music.</p> <h2>Jan. 18</h2> <h3>Bell's Beer Dinner</h3> <p>Join us for our second annual Kalamazoo Beer Week dinner at <a href="http://www.parkclub.net/">The Park Club</a> hosted by Larry Bell. It will feature the area’s only tapping of 2011 Cherry Stout among others. Reservations are required. Happy hour is at 6:30 p.m. and dinner will be served at 7 p.m. <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2642">Take a look at the menu.</a></p> <h2>Jan. 19</h2> <h3>Vintage Beer Tasting</h3> <p>Yes, we know Kalamazoo Beer Week officially ended on Jan. 18, but we are taking things to 11 with a special vintage beer festival and bottle release from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. <a href="http://bit.ly/XBHf3m">A silent auction to benefit Fair Food Matters will include vintage Bell's gear and beer.</a></p> <p><strong>Cost:</strong> $10 admission includes 4 drink tickets and a commemorative tasting glass. Additional tickets can be purchased for $1 each with most samples ranging in price from $1 to $2 (each sample is two to three ounces). Bottles will be priced accordingly.</p> <p><strong>On draft:</strong></p> <ul> <li>2007 Cherry Stout - Batch 8201</li> <li> 2010 Expedition Stout - Batch 9931</li> <li> 2007 Third Coast Old Ale - Batch 8211</li> <li> 2008 Eccentric Ale</li> <li> Batch 7000 (2005)</li> <li> 2011 Black Note</li> </ul> <p><em><strong>Note:</strong> These beers will be available on their own or part of a sampler.</em></p> <p><strong>Bottles:</strong></p> <ul> <li>2008 Eccentric Ale</li> <li> 2003 Eccentric Ale</li> <li> 2004 Eccentric Ale</li> <li> 2005 Eccentric Ale</li> <li> 2001 Eccentric Ale</li> <li> 1999 Eccentric Ale</li> <li> Third Coast Old Ale - Batch 8723 (2008)</li> <li> Third Coast Old Ale - Batch 8863 (2008)</li> <li> Third Coast Old Ale - Batch 8943 (2009)</li> <li> Expedition Stout - Batch 8183 (2007)</li> <li> Expedition Stout - Batch 8728 (2008)</li> <li> Expedition Stout - Batch 8944 (2009)</li> <li> Cherry Stout - Batch 8730 (2008)</li> <li> Cherry Stout - Batch 8957 (2009)</li> <li> Cherry Stout - Batch 9434 (2009)</li> </ul> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-01-04T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Q&A: Hopslam 2013 release info and availability at the Eccentric Cafe http://bellsbeer.com/news/156-Q%26A%3A%20Hopslam%202013%20release%20info%20and%20availability%20at%20the%20Eccentric%20Cafe <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/34a48472fdd338916b77ecb782e457c2.jpg" alt="Hopslam2013BottlingLineWEB.jpg" height="347" width="261">Below are a few answers to some of the more commonly asked questions about this year’s Hopslam release.</p> <p><strong>Q: Is there more Hopslam this year?</strong></p> <p><strong>A:</strong> Yes, we were able to brew more this year, but availability will still vary from area to area.</p> <p><strong>Q: When/where will it be available?</strong></p> <p><strong>A:</strong> Hopslam will start shipping to areas in Michigan, Indiana and Ohio the week of Jan. 7.</p> <p>It will begin shipping to Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, Missouri and Arizona the week of Jan. 14.</p> <p>It will then start shipping to Florida, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Washington DC, Kentucky and Pennsylvania the week of Jan. 21.</p> <p>Keep in mind, availability will also depend on delivery and trucking schedules, so please be patient with your local bars, restaurants and retailers.</p> <p>You can also keep an eye on <a title="Events" href="/events-2/">our website’s Event Calendar</a> for release party information as well as <a title="Beer Finder" href="/index.php?cID=236">our website’s Beer Finder</a>.</p> <p><strong>Q: Will there be mini-kegs this year?</strong></p> <p><strong>A: </strong>Unfortunately, no. We want to spread as much of this popular winter seasonal to as many of our fans as possible.</p> <p><strong>Q: When will it be available at the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Café</a>/<a title="General Store" href="/index.php?cID=139">Bell’s General Store</a> in downtown Kalamazoo?</strong></p> <p><strong>A:</strong> Friday, Jan. 4</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2013-01-03T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Burgers, the darkest day of the year, This one goes to 11 and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/155-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Burgers%2C%20the%20darkest%20day%20of%20the%20year%2C%20This%20one%20goes%20to%2011%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/db1968dfa17fd44dd69705f0f3cfde19.png" alt="Bells_GoesTo11-01.png" height="287" width="291">Below is a look at our events this week in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Michigan, Indiana and Illinois.</p> <h2>Wisconsin</h2> <h3>Dec. 17</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Sampling:</strong> <a href="http://www.dublinsquarepub.com/">Dublin Square Irish Pub</a> in La Crosse from 6-9 p.m. - Two Hearted, Amber, Best Brown and Winter White</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Dec. 18</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://winethief.net/blog/the-ale-jail">Ale Jail</a> in St. Paul from 5-7 p.m. - fall/winter seasonals plus some specialty stouts and more</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Dec. 19</h3> <p><strong>Bell's &amp; Burgers Beer Dinner &amp; Tap Takeover:</strong> <a href="http://www.eatatthebuck.com">The Buck Burgers &amp; Brew</a> in Saint Joseph at 5 p.m. - Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, Kal-Haven Ale, our Jazz Series, Roundhouse IRA, Rye Stout, Debs' Red, Midwestern Pale Ale, Two Hearted, Winter White, Christmas Ale, an a la carte beer dinner and Bell's swag!</p> <h3>Dec. 20</h3> <p><strong>Hop Head Heaven:</strong> <a href="http://hermannsotg.com/">Hermann's Ole Town Grille</a> in Plymouth at 6 p.m. - Hopsoulution DIPA, The Oracle DIPA, Two Hearted, This one goes to 11 Ale and Christmas Ale (for the non hop heads)</p> <p><strong>The Darkest Day of the Year:</strong> <a href="http://www.kalamazoobeerexchange.com/">The Beer Exchange</a> in Kalamazoo - Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, Black Note, Rye Stout, Sweet Potato Stout, Java Stout, Expedition Stout, Kalamazoo Stout and Porter</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Dec. 20</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tasting:</strong> Bottle &amp; Keg in Roanoke from 5-7 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Bell’s Stout Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.cornerwinebar.com">Corner Wine Bar</a> in Indianapolis at 5 p.m. - Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout, Kalamazoo Stout, Rye Stout, Java Stout, Double Cream Stout, Two Hearted and more</p> <h3>Dec. 21</h3> <p><strong>Beer Tasting:</strong> Plymouth Party Pack in Plymouth from 5-7 p.m.</p> <h3>Dec. 28</h3> <p><strong>Beer Tasting:</strong> Blarney Stone Wine &amp; Spirits in South Bend from 5-7 p.m.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Dec. 20</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.thevillagetap.com/">Village Tap</a> in Chicago at 5 p.m. - This One Goes to 11 Ale, Expedition Stout, 2011 Cherry Stout, Special Double Cream Stout, Rye Stout, Winter White and Two Hearted</p> <h2>Looking ahead to 2013</h2> <p>Join us for beer dinners in Owosso and Grand Rapids, Michigan – plus, Hopslam’s return in January.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-12-16T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Photos: Brewing Eccentric Ale with Jamie Floyd of Ninkasi Brewing Co., Eccentric Day 2012 http://bellsbeer.com/news/154-Photos%3A%20Brewing%20Eccentric%20Ale%20with%20Jamie%20Floyd%20of%20Ninkasi%20Brewing%20Co.%2C%20Eccentric%20Day%202012 <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/fa85811989039795077c7d6692aa529e.jpg" alt="MapleSyrup.jpg" height="224" width="338">We were joined by a very special guest in our Kalamazoo brewhouse on Eccentric Day Eve.</p> <p>Jamie Floyd, owner and founding brewer of <a href="http://www.ninkasibrewing.com/">Ninkasi Brewing Co.</a> in Eugene, Oregon, stopped by to help brew next year’s batch of Eccentric Ale.</p> <p>Traditionally, our guest brewers bring an ingredient or two to contribute to the recipe and Jamie did not disappoint. He brought honey and a combination of pureed squash, pumpkin and sweet potatoes - ingredients all local to the Eugene area - along with him.</p> <p>That batch of Eccentric Ale, which will be released in December 2013, was also brewed with ginger, Michigan maple syrup and a variety of spices.</p> <p>Below are a few more photos from our brew with Jamie.</p> <p>Photos from this year’s Eccentric Day are also now online. Take a look at them on <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/bellsbreweryinc/sets/72157632217433098/">our Flickr page</a>, on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/BellsEccentricCafe"> the Eccentric Café’s Facebook page</a> or on <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/b/109244532904663173500/109244532904663173500/posts">Google+</a>, depending on your preferred social network.</p> <p>Also, If you haven’t already, be sure to take a look at <a href="http://bit.ly/UIGJRA">our post about how this year’s eccentric menu came together</a> as well.</p> <p>A huge thank you to Jamie for everything - cheers!</p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; vertical-align: middle; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/a874158154ff8f96507d2cb252da718b.jpg" alt="Passing.jpg" height="431" width="620"></p> <p><img style="border: 0.5px solid black; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; display: block;" src="/files/cache/5f6f6cbea3193b6fb8817b8b0665aa77.jpg" alt="GroupShot.jpg" height="421" width="630"></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-12-11T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Holiday parties, beer dinners, Black Note and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/153-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Holiday%20parties%2C%20beer%20dinners%2C%20Black%20Note%20and%20more <h3><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/6aa79f5d9cd7ad08adcc0e8df9809ced.jpg" alt="BoneDry_DarkerBells-01.jpg" height="563" width="366"></h3> <p>Below is a roundup of our events this week in Indiana, Illinois, Minnesota, Michigan, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Wisconsin and Florida.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Dec. 10</h3> <p><strong>Beer 101 Tasting: </strong><a href="http://www.pointblankbrewing.com/">Point Blank Brewing Co.</a> in Corydon at 7 p.m. &nbsp;– Winter seasonals</p> <h3>Dec. 11</h3> <p><strong>Ring in the Bell's: <a href="http://eatatrockys.com/"></a></strong><a href="http://eatatrockys.com/">Rocky's</a> in Jeffersonville at 5 p.m. - 12 Bell’s on tap including Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, The Oracle and Golden Rye</p> <h3>Dec. 12</h3> <p><strong>3rd Annual 12 Bell’s Of December:</strong> <a href="http://www.chathamtap.com">Chatham Tap</a> in Indianapolis at 6 p.m. &nbsp;- 12 beers on tap including Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000 and This one goes to 11</p> <h3>Dec. 13</h3> <p><strong>12 Bell's of Christmas: </strong><a href="http://chubbytrout.com/">Chubby Trout</a> in Elkhart at 4 p.m. &nbsp;- Best Brown Ale, Christmas Ale, Midwestern Pale Ale, Sparkling Ale, Two Hearted Ale, Winter White Ale, This one goes to 11 Ale, Kal-Haven Ale, Harry Magill's Spiced Stout, Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, Debs' Red and Golden Rye</p> <p><strong>12 Bell’s of Christmas:</strong> <a href="http://www.barlouieamerica.com/">Bar Louie</a> in Evansville at 5 p.m. – Amber, Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, Best Brown, Christmas Ale, Debs’ Red, Double Cream Stout, Golden Rye, Midwestern Pale Ale, Porter, Sparkling Ale, Two Hearted and Winter White</p> <h3>Dec. 15</h3> <p><strong>Celebrate the Dark Side: </strong>Bone Dry in Highland at 4 p.m. &nbsp;- Best Brown, 2011 Cherry Stout, Expedition Stout, Porter, Rye Stout, Special Double Cream Stout, Two Hearted Ale, Oatmeal Stout and Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Dec. 11</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.fatpourchicago.com/">Fatpour</a> in Chicago at 6 p.m. - Oatmeal Stout, Two Hearted, Winter White and more.</p> <h3>Dec. 12</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.longroomchicago.com/">The Long Room</a> in Chicago at 5 p.m. &nbsp;- This one goes to 11, Hell Hath No Fury, Special Double Cream Stout, Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000 and Two Hearted</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Dec. 11</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://eatdrinkshine.com/">Moonshine Lounge</a> in Brainerd at 6:30 p.m. – four course beer dinner featuring Le Contrebassiste, Hopsoulution, Rye Stout, and Smoked Vienna Lager. Seating is limited and reservations are required.</p> <h3>Dec. 12</h3> <p><strong>Jingle Your Bell's:</strong> <a href="http://www.newbohemiausa.com/">New Bohemia</a> in Minneapolis at 5 p.m. - Black Note, Bourbon Barrel-Aged Cherry Stout, Bourbon Barrel-Aged Batch 9,000, Harry McGill's Spiced Stout, The Oracle DIPA, and of course, Sparkling Ale</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Dec. 12</h3> <p><strong>12 Bell's of Christmas, Ugly Sweater Party:</strong> <a href="http://jetspizza.com/">Jet's Pizza</a> in Chelsea at 6 p.m. - Best Brown Ale, Christmas Ale, Hell Hath No Fury … Ale, Hopsoulution, Midwestern Pale Ale, Sparkling Ale, Winter White Ale and This one goes to 11 Ale</p> <h3>Dec. 13</h3> <p><strong>Holiday Party:</strong> <a href="http://www.uptowngrille.com/">Uptown Grille </a>in Commerce Township at 6 p.m. - Amber Ale, Best Brown, Christmas Ale, Hell Hath No Fury … Ale, Midwestern Pale Ale, Special Double Cream Stout, Two Hearted Ale, Winter White, Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout, Golden Rye, Sweet Potato Stout and Roundhouse IRA</p> <p><strong>Men's Night - Tap Explosion:</strong> <a href="http://www.uandilounge.com/">U &amp; I Lounge</a> in Traverse City from 6-8 p.m. - Winter White, Best Brown, Two Hearted, Christmas Ale, This one goes to 11, Special Double Cream Stout, Hell Hath No Fury and Sparkling Ale</p> <p><strong>12 Bell's of Christmas: </strong><a href="http://www.steinhausbaycity.com/">Stein Haus</a> in Bay City - Midwestern Pale Ale, Amber, Winter White, Best Brown, Black Note, Christmas Ale, Two Hearted, 2011 Cherry Stout, Sparkling Ale, Oarsman, Hell Hath No Fury ... Ale and This one goes to 11</p> <p><strong>Brewer Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.pintsandquarts.com/">Pints and Quarts</a> in Muskegon at 5 p.m. – Eccentric Café specialties!</p> <h3>Dec. 14</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover:</strong> <a href="http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/cranbrook/">Whole Foods Cranbrook</a> in Ann Arbor</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>Dec. 12</h3> <p><strong>Pint Night: </strong><a href="http://www.westvillepub.com/">Westville Pub</a> in Asheville at 6:30 p.m. - Bourbon Barrel-Aged Batch 9,000, Black Note, 2011 Cherry Stout, Amber, Best Brown and Two Hearted. You also get to keep the glass – Cheers!</p> <h3>Dec. 13</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://www.vintnerwinemarketnc.com/">Vitner Wine Market</a> in Charlotte at 6:30 p.m. - Amber, Two Hearted, Expedition Stout, Java Stout, Christmas Ale, 2011 Cherry Stout, Black Note, Sparkling Ale and This one goes to 11.</p> <h3>Dec. 14</h3> <p><strong>Bells Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/winston-salem">Whole Foods in Winston Salem</a> from 4-8 p.m. - Two Hearted Ale, Winter White, Christmas Ale, Best Brown and Special Double Cream Stout</p> <p><strong>Bell's Tasting: </strong><a href="http://customhomepubs.com/">Custom Home Pubs</a> in Matthews at 6:30 p.m. - Sparkling Ale, Expedition Stout, Midwestern Pale Ale, Third Coast Old Ale and Christmas Ale</p> <h2>Pennsylvania</h2> <h3>Dec. 13</h3> <p><strong>Black Christmas:</strong> <a href="http://thelibrary-pgh.com/">The Library</a> in Pittsburgh at 7 p.m. &nbsp;– Black Note (last chance to get this beer in 2012), Christmas Ale and Special Double Cream Stout. Get there early for a special stocking (limited).</p> <h3>Dec. 14</h3> <p><strong>Two Hearted Firkin Tapping: </strong><a href="http://www.otbbicyclecafe.com/">OTB Bicycle Café</a> in Pittsburgh at 6 p.m. &nbsp;– Two Hearted (draft as well) and Winter White</p> <h2>Georgia</h2> <h3>Dec. 13</h3> <p><strong>Christmas Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.bigtexdecatur.com/">Big Tex i</a>n Decatur at 7 p.m. – Four course meal will feature Winter White, Two Hearted, Best Brown, Porter and Black Note. Tickets are available online.</p> <h2>Wisconsin</h2> <h3>Dec. 17</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Sampling: </strong><a href="http://www.dublinsquarepub.com/">Dublin Square Irish Pub</a> in La Crosse from 6-9 p.m. - Two Hearted, Amber, Best Brown and Winter White &nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>Dec. 13</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night:</strong> <a href="http://wobusa.com/Locations/Carrollwood.aspx">World of Beer Carrollwood </a>in Tamp from 7-10 p.m. - Oberon, Two Hearted, Amber, Best Brown, Christmas Ale, Winter White, Kalamazoo Stout, 2011 Cherry Stout, Special Double Cream Stout and 2 surprise kegs</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us at Village Tap in Chicago, Ale Jail in St. Paul, Minnesota, The Buck in St. Joe and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2">Take a look at our full calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-12-10T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News A behind the scenes look: Prepping the menu for Eccentric Day http://bellsbeer.com/news/152-A%20behind%20the%20scenes%20look%3A%20Prepping%20the%20menu%20for%20Eccentric%20Day <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/c0001b043a25f4b1b038a34e349c9ae0.JPG" alt="IMG_1761.JPG" height="279" width="383">Wild boar, bison, squid, smoked lamb bacon, emu, quail, antelope, duck … these are just a few of the items you will see offered on Eccentric Day this year.</p> <p>But how does <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/blog/151-Eccentric_Day_2012__60_beers_on_tap_____take_a_look_at_the_full_list_and_menu">a menu like this</a> come together?</p> <p>The planning starts early.</p> <p>For Melissa Bont, the Eccentric Café’s Kitchen Manager, that planning began in early October.</p> <p>And then there is the prep work.</p> <p>Deliveries started late last week. And since then, cases of food have been arriving almost daily.</p> <p>Most of the caviar, smoked salmon and other delicacies won’t actually arrive until the day before Eccentric Day though.</p> <p>But during the week leading up to the event and especially the day before, there is still plenty of chopping, slicing, stirring and tasting to make sure everything possible is ready to go.</p> <p>The entire kitchen staff, including a few dedicated “retired” kitchen staff members - who have since gone on to other positions at the Café - put in some long and late hours to make everything happen.</p> <p>There is also a fair amount of improvising as well – adding chorizo to the alligator gumbo for example.</p> <p>Being incredibly organized is also helpful, Bont said.</p> <p>On Eccentric Day, that same team will set up, do any last minute cooking and restock two buffet style tables in both the front and back bars of the Café before opening at 9 a.m. until around 10 p.m. (depending on how fast all the food goes).</p> <p>Even the menu is still being tweaked a bit this week as some items are a little harder to come by than originally planned.</p> <p>Sorry, no organs (sweet breads) this year.</p> <p>But bugs have been added (scorpion suckers, crickets and larvae - fried with spices) in addition to emu. And Bell’s beer will also be used in a few of the dishes.</p> <p>The idea of getting a pig uterus was even pitched, but that won’t happen this year.</p> <p>Not to say they didn’t try.</p> <p>There will also be plenty for vegetarian appetites as well including a vegetarian turducken, stuffed jalapenos and smoky tofu bites. Bont said she recognizes the need to have something for all tastes.</p> <p>“It’s a great tradition. We’re busy and there is a lot to do, but we make it fun and we get to experiment with different foods. It’s nice to be able to offer people things they wouldn't normally get to try,” Bont said.</p> <p><strong>2012 Eccentric food numbers:</strong></p> <p><strong>20 lbs.</strong> of alligator</p> <p><strong>10 lbs. </strong>of shepherd’s pie</p> <p>About <strong>100 </strong>squid (stuffed with bison cornbread)</p> <p><strong>10 lbs.</strong> of antelope</p> <p><strong>2</strong> wild boar legs <strong>(10-12 lbs. each)</strong></p> <p><strong>20 lbs.</strong> of shrimp</p> <p><strong>12 lbs.</strong> of elk</p> <p><strong>12 lbs. </strong>of bison</p> <p><strong>24 </strong>duck breasts</p> <p><strong>12 lbs.</strong> of venison to make sausage</p> <p>About <strong>80 lbs.</strong> of cheese in <strong>20 </strong>different varieties</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-12-06T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Eccentric Day 2012: 60 beers on tap – take a look at the full list and menu http://bellsbeer.com/news/151-Eccentric%20Day%202012%3A%2060%20beers%20on%20tap%20%E2%80%93%20take%20a%20look%20at%20the%20full%20list%20and%20menu <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/3a6daa9fe69cfb255022c2593255268d.JPG" alt="IMG_1623.JPG" height="381" width="238">Eccentric Day will begin at 9 a.m. on Friday (Dec. 7).</p> <p>There is no cover and food is free (see menu below). The only requirement is that you must come dressed for the occasion so, come <strong>“as you aren't.”</strong></p> <p>If you need inspiration, <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/bellsbreweryinc/sets/72157628417723015/">take a look at photos from last year</a>.</p> <h3>The beer</h3> <p><strong>Sixty different beers</strong> will be available on tap throughout the day:</p> <ul> <li>Two Hearted</li> <li>Red Nose ESB</li> <li>Winter White</li> <li>Debs’ Red</li> <li>Christmas Ale</li> <li>Black Rye</li> <li>Best Brown</li> <li>Mild Ale</li> <li>Amber Ale</li> <li>Michigan Brewers Guild 15<sup>th</sup> Anniversary Ale</li> <li>Lager of the Lakes</li> <li>The Oracle DIPA</li> <li>Oarsman Ale</li> <li>Hopsoulution DIPA</li> <li>Pale Ale</li> <li>Le Batteur</li> <li>Le Pianiste</li> <li>Le Contrebassite</li> <li>Porter</li> <li>Third Coast Beer</li> <li>Third Coast Old Ale</li> <li>Octoberfest</li> <li>EXP 2012-3</li> <li>EXP 2012-4</li> <li>EXP 2012-5</li> <li>EXP 2012-6</li> <li>Mead</li> <li>Expedition Stout</li> <li>Kalamazoo Stout</li> <li>Java Stout</li> <li>Special Double Cream Stout</li> <li>Oatmeal Stout</li> <li>Spiced Stout</li> <li>Milk Stout</li> <li>Smoked Stout</li> <li>Sweet Potato Stout</li> <li>Dagger Stout</li> <li>Trumpeters Stout</li> <li>Bourbon Barrel Aged Kalamazoo Stout Firkin</li> <li>Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout</li> <li>Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000</li> <li>Bourbon Barrel Aged Best Brown</li> <li>Captain Spontaneous</li> <li>Wedding Ale</li> <li>Ravissant</li> <li>Dunkelweizen</li> <li>Roundhouse IRA</li> <li>Raspberry Ale</li> <li>Harvest Ale</li> <li>Hell Hath No Fury … Ale</li> <li>Eccentric Ale</li> <li>This one goes to 11 Ale&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li> <li>Kal-Haven Ale</li> <li>The Wild One</li> <li>Black Note</li> <li>2008 Eccentric Ale</li> <li>2007 Cherry Stout</li> <li>2007 Third Coast Old Ale</li> <li>2009 Expedition Stout</li> <li>Bourbon Barrel Aged Expedition Stout 2011</li> </ul> <h3></h3> <h3>The food</h3> <p>A variety of cheeses, caviar, escargot, oysters, shrimp and smoked meats (including pheasant, salmon and many others) will be available all day long.</p> <p>The kitchen will also be serving:</p> <ul> <li>Antelope Stew</li> <li>Alligator Gumbo</li> <li>Reuben Skewers</li> <li>Capon (castrated rooster) Potpie</li> <li>Boiled Cow Tongue with horseradish mustard</li> <li>Quail scotch eggs with chorizo and Sriracha sour cream</li> <li>Venison Shepherd’s Pie</li> <li>Smoked Turkey Legs</li> <li>Smoked Wild Boar Legs</li> <li>Squid stuffed with Ground Buffalo</li> <li>Smoked Duck with Apricot – Mint Spread</li> <li>&nbsp;Fried Sweetbreads</li> <li>Jerk Smoked Quail Legs</li> <li>Venison Osso Buco</li> <li>Rocky Mountain Oysters</li> <li>Chocolate covered bacon</li> <li>Asian Marinated Tempeh</li> <li>Spicy bean salsa</li> <li>Deviled eggs (curry, chipotle and traditional)</li> <li>Udon noodles with peanut sauce</li> <li>Pickled Eggs</li> <li>Smoked Jalapenos with cream cheese (and w cream cheese &amp; Chorizo)</li> <li>Smoked Tomato Salsa</li> <li>Smokey Tofu Bites</li> <li>Spring Rolls filled with rice noodles, tofu &amp; jicama slaw</li> <li>Veggie Turducken ( squash filled with stuffing, leeks, sweet potatoes &amp; mushrooms and then smoked)</li> <li>Vichyssoise &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li> <li>Stuffed mushrooms</li> </ul> <h3></h3> <h3>The music</h3> <p>DJ Bowser and <a href="http://swagradio.org/">Bat Guano</a> will spin beginning at 6 p.m.</p> <h3></h3> <h3>Just a little bit more ...</h3> <p>The<a title="General Store" href="/index.php?cID=139"> Bell’s General Store</a> will also be selling a variety of vintage Eccentric Ales in addition to this year’s batch.</p> <p>See your alter ego on Friday. Cheers!</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-12-04T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Dinners, ugly sweater contests, Christmas Ale and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/150-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Dinners%2C%20ugly%20sweater%20contests%2C%20Christmas%20Ale%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/be8d869f7881bf4e524e4be0416cc898.jpg" alt="MarketGardenFlyer.jpg" height="598" width="388">Below is a look at our events this week in Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio and Indiana.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Nov. 26</h3> <p><strong>Specialty Night:</strong> <a href="http://jerryssandwiches.com/">Jerry's Sandwich's</a> in Chicago - Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, This one goes to 11, Special Double Cream Stout, Christmas Ale, Winter White and Two Hearted</p> <h3>Nov. 27</h3> <p><strong>Specialty Night:</strong> <a href="http://jerryssandwiches.com/">Jerry's Sandwich's (Andersonville)</a> in Chicago - Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout, This one goes to 11, Expedition Stout, Third Coast Old Ale and Special Double Cream Stout</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Nov. 27</h3> <p><strong>Tap Event:</strong> <a href="http://www.buffalowildwings.com/">Buffalo Wild Wings</a> in Brighton at 7 p.m. – Trivia, This one goes to 11 (tapped at 8 p.m.), Black Note, Christmas Ale, Hell Hath No Fury … Ale, Two Hearted Ale and Winter White</p> <h3>Nov. 28</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover: </strong><a href="http://www.mattprenticeculinaryexperience.com/Detroit_Prime.html">Detroit Prime </a>in Farmington Hills from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Half-off appetizers plus Winter White, Two Hearted Ale, Amber Ale, Porter, Smoked Vienna Lager, Oatmeal Stout, Sparkling Ale and This one goes to 11 Ale</p> <p><strong>Bell's Holiday Party:</strong> <a href="http://oakcafe.com/">Oak Café </a>in Wyandotte at 7 p.m. - Batch 10,000 (a special treat from Oak Cafe's cellar), Best Brown Ale, Christmas Ale, Hell Hath No Fury … Ale, Midwestern Pale Ale, Sparkling Ale, Two Hearted, Golden Rye, Kal-Haven Ale and Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000. $20 tasting ticket available. For more details, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2538">go here</a>.</p> <h3>Nov. 29</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover:</strong> <a href="http://www.buffalowildwings.com/">Buffalo Wild Wings</a> in Rochester Hills at 7 p.m. - Black Note (tapped at 8 p.m.), Christmas Ale, Hell Hath No Fury … Ale, Midwestern Pale Ale, Two Hearted Ale, Winter White Ale and This one goes to 11 Ale</p> <p><strong>Tasting: </strong>Bacchus Wine &amp; Spirits in Kalamazoo from 4-6 p.m.</p> <p><strong>13 Bell's of Christmas: </strong><a href="http://www.lynchsirishtavern.com/">Lynch's in Port Huron</a> at 4:30 p.m. - Batch 9,000, Best Brown Ale, Christmas Ale, Hell Hath No Fury … Ale, Hopsoulution, Kalamazoo Stout, Rye Stout, The Oracle, Two Hearted Ale, Winter White Ale, This one goes to 11 Ale, Smoked Vienna Lager, Kal-Haven Ale and Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000</p> <h3>Nov. 29 &amp; Dec. 1</h3> <p><strong>2-day event:</strong> <a href="http://www.zazios.com/home-birmingham.html">Zazios Birmingham</a> – For details, <a href="http://www.zazios.com/home-birmingham.html">go here</a>.</p> <h3>Nov. 30</h3> <p><strong>Happy Hour Tasting:</strong> Bottoms Up in Kalamazoo from 4-6 p.m.</p> <h3>Dec. 1</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover: </strong><a href="http://renossportsbar.com/">Reno's Sports Bar </a>East in East Lansing starting at 6 p.m. &nbsp;– 14 beers on tap - Black Note (6 p.m.),This one goes to 11 (7 p.m.) Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000 (8 p.m.), Amber Ale, Best Brown Ale, 2011 Cherry Stout, Christmas Ale, Hell Hath No Fury … Ale, Java Stout, Midwestern Pale Ale, Third Coast Old Ale, Two Hearted Ale, Winter White Ale and Smoked Vienna Lager</p> <p><strong>Christmas Ale Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://shophorrocks.com/">Horrock's Farm Market</a> in Lansing from 2-5 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Ugly Sweater Party:</strong> <a href="http://www.thegrottoatcapones.com/">The Grotto at Capone's</a> in Kalamazoo starting at 11 a.m. – prizes for the best ugly sweater, free food from 8-10 p.m. plus 12 Bell’s beers on tap</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Nov. 27</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night:</strong> Bar 209 in Bemidji at 6 p.m. - Golden Rye, Roundhouse IRA and Le Contrebassiste</p> <h3>Nov. 28</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.skalbarandgrill.com/">Skal Bar &amp; Grill</a> in Vergas at 6 p.m. - Christmas Ale, Le Pianiste, Oatmeal Stout, Debs' Red, and Two Hearted Ale. Seating is limited. Please call 218-342-7525 for reservations.</p> <h3>Nov. 29</h3> <p><strong>Multi-Tap Night:</strong> <a href="http://grizzlysgrill.com/duluth-canal-park-mn/">Grizzly's Canal Park </a>in Duluth at 4 p.m. - Two Hearted, Best Brown, Golden Rye, Oatmeal Stout, The Oracle, This one goes to 11, Debs' Red, Le Contrebassiste, and Le Pianiste</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>Nov. 28</h3> <p><strong>Collaborative Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://marketgardenbrewery.com/">Market Garden Brewery </a>in Cleveland at 6:30 p.m. &nbsp;– Five course beer dinner featuring Christmas Ale, Hell Hath No Fury … Ale, Le Contrebassiste Ale, Midwestern Pale Ale, Two Hearted Ale and others. Please call 216-621-4000 for reservations.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Nov. 30</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://stjohnwineandspirits.com/">St. John Wine &amp; Spirits</a> in St. John from 6-8 p.m. - Amber Ale, Best Brown Ale, Expedition Stout, Midwestern Pale Ale, Special Double Cream Stout, Third Coast Beer, Two Hearted Ale and Winter White Ale</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for a beer dinner in Brainerd, 12 Bell’s of Christmas in Chelsea, Michigan, pint night in Asheville and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look at our full calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-11-26T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Beers we are thankful for, tastings, Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000 and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/149-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Beers%20we%20are%20thankful%20for%2C%20tastings%2C%20Bourbon%20Barrel%20Aged%20Batch%209%2C000%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/18a68cb2e327ecd1e7bb872cdc987ad7.png" alt="BBA9K-01.png" height="334" width="340">Below is a look at Bell’s beer events this week in Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Michigan, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio and Kentucky.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Nov. 19</h3> <p><strong>Specialty Beer Night/Tap Takeover:</strong> <a href="http://www.thebeerbistro.com/">Beer Bistro</a> in Chicago</p> <h3>Nov. 20</h3> <p><strong>Stout Blowout Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.thesmallbar.com/">Small Bar</a> in Chicago – enjoy a rare taping of 2011 Cherry Stout</p> <h3>Nov. 26</h3> <p><strong>Specialty Night:</strong> <a href="http://jerryssandwiches.com/">Jerry's Sandwich's</a> in Chicago</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Nov. 19</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.aristocratpub.com/">The Aristocrat</a> in Indianapolis &nbsp;- multiple taps including The Oracle, Wedding Ale, Le Batteur and more</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Nov. 19</h3> <p><strong>Bourbon Barrel-Aged Beer Tappings:</strong><a href="http://busterson28th.com/"> Buster's on 28<sup>th</sup></a> in Minneapolis at 11 a.m. - Black Note, Bourbon Barrel-Aged Batch 9,000 and Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout</p> <p><strong>Burnt:</strong> <a href="http://www.republicmn.com">Republic </a>in Minneapolis at 5 p.m. - 11 different beers including Java Stout, Kalamazoo Stout, Double Cream Stout, Expedition Stout, Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry Stout, Bourbon Barrel Aged Batch 9,000, Rye Stout, Harry Magill's Spiced Stout, Black Note, Hell Hath No Fury and Oatmeal Stout</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Nov. 20</h3> <p><strong>Beer Dinner: </strong><a href="http://www.caseysofwalledlake.com/">Casey's</a> in Walled Lake at 6 p.m. – <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2423">take a look at the menu</a>.</p> <p><strong>Beer Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://www.hardings.com/">Harding's</a> on West Main St. in Kalamazoo from 4-6 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Ugly Sweater Contest &amp; Great Beer:</strong> <a href="http://www.fuelwoodfiregrill.com/">Fuel Woodfire Grill</a> in Port Huron at 6 p.m. – prizes for the ugliest sweater, great food, Christmas Ale, Hell Hath No Fury, This one goes to 11 and more</p> <p><strong>Beers We're Thankful For:</strong> <a href="http://www.ashleys.com/">Ashley's in Westland</a> starting at 2 p.m. (staggered tappings) - Two Hearted, Winter White, Best Brown, Third Coast Beer, Midwestern Pale Ale, Kalamazoo Stout, Porter, Double Cream Stout, Hopsoulution, Hell Hath No Fury, Sparkling Ale, Vienna Smoked Lager, Christmas Ale, Le Pianiste, Oatmeal Stout, Golden Rye, This One Goes to 11, Kal-Haven Ale, 2011 Cherry Stout, Black Note and bottles of Java Stout and Expedition Stout, plus beer infused cuisine</p> <h3>Nov. 21 &nbsp;</h3> <p><strong>Beer Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://www.hardings.com/">Harding's</a> on Centre St in Portage from 4-6 p.m.</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>Nov. 21</h3> <p><strong>Holiday Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/charlotte">Whole Foods South Park</a> in Charlotte at 5 p.m. - Best Brown Ale, Christmas Ale and Winter White Ale</p> <h2>North Dakota</h2> <h3>Nov. 21</h3> <p><strong>This one goes to 11 Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://thewalrusrestaurant.com/">The Walrus</a> in Bismarck at 5 p.m.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>Nov. 23</h3> <p><strong>Black Note Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.moerleinlagerhouse.com/">Moelein Lager House</a> in Cincinnati at noon.</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>Nov. 21</h3> <p><strong>This one goes to 11 Tapping:</strong> Nach Bar in Louisville at 11 p.m.</p> <h3>Nov. 23</h3> <p><strong>Black Friday Black Out:</strong> Nach bar in Louisville - Expedition Stout will be on tap all day. Black Note will be tapped at 8 p.m.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for holiday parties, tap takeovers, beer dinners and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2">Take a look at our full calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-11-19T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Tap takeovers, barrel aged beers, The Oracle and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/148-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Tap%20takeovers%2C%20barrel%20aged%20beers%2C%20The%20Oracle%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/90e7b7c7a609e976c1994d50c8bf51ed.jpg" alt="LocALE_Poster7.jpg" height="550" width="357">Below is a look at our events this week in Wisconsin, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Indiana, Washington DC, Michigan, Ohio, Florida, Iowa, North Dakota and North Carolina.</p> <h2>Wisconsin</h2> <h3>Nov. 12</h3> <p><strong>Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/milwaukee">Whole Foods Milwaukee</a> from 4-6 p.m. – Winter White, Best Brown, Christmas Ale and Two Hearted</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Nov. 13</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.wildmonkbar.com/">Wild Monk</a> in La Grange at 6 p.m. – <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2493">take a look at the menu here</a>.</p> <h3>Nov. 15</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner: </strong><a href="http://www.carluccidownersgrove.com/">Carlucci Restaurant &amp; Bar</a> in Downers Grove – call 630-512-0990 for more information.</p> <p><strong>Michigan Beer Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.hackneysprintersrow.net/">Hackney's Printers' Row</a> in Chicago</p> <h3>Nov. 17</h3> <p><strong>10th Annual<a href="http://www.illinoisbeer.com/fobab/"> FOBAB (Festival of Barrel Aged Beers)</a>:</strong> Bridgeport Art Center in Chicago from 1-5 p.m. &amp; 6-10 p.m.</p> <h3>Nov. 18</h3> <p><strong>Solidarity Event:</strong> <a href="http://firkinoflibertyville.com/">The Firkin</a> in Libertyville - This one goes to 11 Ale, Black Note, Two Hearted and Best Brown. <a href="http://www.hardcorecraftbeer.com">Tickets can be purchased here.</a></p> <h2>Pennsylvania</h2> <h3>Nov. 13</h3> <p><strong>Bourbon Barrel-Aged Cherry Stout Tappng: </strong><a href="http://www.madmex.com">Mad Mex</a> in Pittsburgh at 5 p.m. Two Hearted will also be on tap.</p> <h3>Nov. 14</h3> <p><strong>Bourbon Barrel-Aged Batch 9,000 Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.madmex.com">Mad Mex</a> in Cranberry at 5 p.m.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Nov. 13</h3> <p><strong>Night of the Imperials:</strong> <a href="http://bryantlakebowl.com/">Bryant Lake Bowl</a> in Minneapolis at 6 p.m. - Black Note, This one goes to 11, Expedition Stout, Bourbon Barrel-Aged Batch 9,000, The Oracle and Hopsoulution</p> <h3>Nov. 14</h3> <p><strong>Darkened Glass Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.3squaresrestaurant.com">3 Squares</a> in Maple Grove at 6 p.m. - Black Note, Bourbon Barrel-Aged Batch 9,000, Expedition Stout, Java Stout, Special Double Cream Stout, 2011 Cherry Stout, Oatmeal Stout, Rye Stout, Hell Hath No Fury, Bourbon Barrel-Aged Cherry Stout and Kalamazoo Stout</p> <h3>Nov. 15</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night:</strong> <a href="http://eatdrinkshine.com/">Sunshine Kitchen &amp; Moonshine Lounge</a> in Brainerd at 6 p.m. - Bourbon Barrel-Aged Batch 9,000, The Oracle DIPA, Sparkling Ale and a few other specialties</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Nov. 13</h3> <p><strong>Oracle Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.bruonmass.com/">Bru Burger Bar</a> in Indianapolis at 7 p.m. – other Bell’s beers will also be on tap.</p> <h2>Washington DC</h2> <h3>Nov. 13</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner: </strong><a href="http://www.capitolhillclub.org/">Capitol Hill Club</a> in Washington DC at 6:30 p.m. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2535">Take a look at the menu here</a>.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Nov. 14</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover:</strong> <a href="http://www.oldtownaa.com/">Old Town Tavern</a> in Ann Arbor - Two Hearted, Winter White, Best Brow, Amber, Christmas Ale, Debs' Red, Golden Rye, Hopsoulution, Double Cream Stout, Le Contrabassiste and This one goes to 11</p> <p><strong>Tap Explosion:</strong> <a href="http://diamondjimsmidland.com/">Diamond Jim's</a> in Midland at 6 p.m. - Hell Hath No Fury, Sparkling Ale, This one goes to 11, Two Hearted and Midwestern Pale Ale</p> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://vitalessportsbar.com/">Vitale's of Comstock Park </a>at 6 p.m. - 5 course meal will feature Best Brown Ale, Black Note, Java Stout, Special Double Cream Stout and Third Coast Beer. Call 616-784-6044 for more information or to make reservations.</p> <h3>Nov. 15</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover:</strong> <a href="http://shamrockutica.com/">Shamrock Pub </a>in Utica at 4 p.m. - The Oracle, a Best Brown Firkin, Amber Ale, Two Hearted and Porter</p> <p><strong>Beer &amp; Cheese Tasting:</strong><a href="http://dwfm.spartanstores.com/"> D&amp;W Fresh Market </a>in Kalamazoo from 4-6 p.m.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>Nov. 14</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.101bottlesofbeeronthewall.com/">101 Bottles of Beer</a> in Kent at 5 p.m. - more than 10 different beers on draft including The Oracle, Cherry Stout, Winter White and more</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>Nov. 15</h3> <p><strong>Blind Tasting &amp; Tap Takeover:</strong> <a href="http://coastersbrewpub.com/">Coasters Pub</a> in Melbourne from 5-9 p.m. – 13 drafts plus a firkin</p> <h2>Iowa</h2> <h3>Nov. 15</h3> <p><strong>Progressive Tap Takeover:</strong> <a href="http://redsalehouse.com/">Red's Ale House</a> in North Liberty - 18 beers on tap - Black Note, Bourbon Barrel-Aged Batch 9,000, Bourbon Barrel-Aged Cherry Stout, all of year round beers, Best Brown, Winter White, Christmas Ale, Expedition Stout, Third Coast Old Ale, Java Stout, Double Cream Stout and Oarsmen</p> <h2>North Dakota</h2> <h3>Nov. 16</h3> <p><strong>This one goes to 11 Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.hoteldonaldson.com">Ho-Do</a> in Fargo at 5 p.m.</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>Nov. 17</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://northhills.wobusa.com/">World of Beer Raleigh</a> First Anniversary Celebration:</strong> - 30 beers on tap starting at noon - Bourbon Barrel-Aged Batch 9,000, Expedition Stout (2011 and 2012) and Black Note to name just a few</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for a specialty night and tap takeover in Chicago, bourbon barrel-aged tappings in Minneapolis, dinner in Walled Lake, Michigan and more.<a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2"> Check out our full calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-11-12T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Hopsoulution, This one goes to 11 screenings, Winter White and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/147-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Hopsoulution%2C%20This%20one%20goes%20to%2011%20screenings%2C%20Winter%20White%20and%20more%20 <p><img style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" src="/files/9612/8386/5832/WinterWhite2010.small.crush.png" alt="WinterWhite_Label.tif.png" height="348" width="352">Below is a look at our events this week in Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Virginia, Kentucky, Arizona, Minnesota, Ohio and Georgia.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Nov. 5</h3> <p><strong>Hail to Kale Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.jkodonnells.com/">JK O'Donnell's</a> in Fort Wayne at 6:30 p.m. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2478">Take a look at the menu here</a>.</p> <h3>Nov. 6</h3> <p><strong>Hopsoulution Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.beergeekspub.com/">Beer Geeks</a> in Highland at 5 p.m.</p> <h3>Nov. 8</h3> <p><strong>Jazz Beer Event:</strong> <a href="http://www.clubsodafortwayne.com/">Club Soda</a> in Fort Wayne at 5:30 p.m. &nbsp;– Our Jazz Series beers, Black Note and a live jazz band</p> <h3>Nov. 9</h3> <p><a href="http://www.casaofkosciuskocounty.org/annualholidayfestival.html"><strong>CASA 10th Annual Holiday Festival:</strong></a> Biomet Hangar in Warsaw from 6-10 p.m. – various Bell’s beers and food to benefit disadvantaged children in the community</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Nov. 5</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.oldtownsocial.com/">Old Town Social</a> in Chicago at 7 p.m. Five courses – <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2492">take a look at the menu</a>.</p> <h3>Nov. 6</h3> <p><strong>This one goes to 11 Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://rockinghorsechicago.com/">Rocking Horse</a> in Chicago</p> <p><strong>This one goes to 11 Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.delilahschicago.com/">Delilah's</a> in Chicago at 7 p.m. – We’ll also be showing “This is Spinal Tap.”</p> <h3>Nov. 9-10</h3> <p><a href="http://beerhoptacular.com/"><strong>Beer Hoptacular:</strong></a> Riverfront Theater in Chicago (1-4:30 p.m. &amp; 6-9:30 p.m.)</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Nov. 7</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.terrybs.com/_index.php">Terry B's</a> in Dexter – six course meal featuring Christmas Ale, Smoked Vienna Lager and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2415">Find the menu here.</a></p> <h3>Nov. 8</h3> <p><strong>Music Series Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.conoroneills.com/annarbor/">Conor O'Neill's</a> in Ann Arbor at 6:30 p.m. - beers from our Jazz Series, This one goes to 11, Best Brown, Two Hearted and Midwestern Pale Ale</p> <h3>Nov. 9</h3> <p><strong>Winter White Release Party/Tap Takeover: </strong>Paint Creek Tavern in Rochester - wear your whitest whites to help us create a <em>Winter White Out</em>. Winter White Ale, Two-Hearted, Special Double Cream Stout and a few other special beers will be on tap.</p> <h2>Virginia</h2> <h3>Nov. 7</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.tuskies.com/">Tuscarora Mill</a> in Leesburg at 7 p.m. featuring Winter White Ale, Hell Hath No Fury, a flight of stouts and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2489">Full menu here</a>.</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>Nov. 7</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.countryboybrewing.com">Country Boy Brewing</a> in Lexington at 4 p.m. – eight beers on draft including The Oracle and Hopsoulution</p> <h2>Arizona</h2> <h3>Nov. 7</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.papagobrewing.com">Papago Brewing Co.</a> in Tempe at 6 p.m. - Hell Hath No Fury Ale, This one goes to 11, Two Hearted, Porter, Oberon, Amber Ale, Best Brown Ale and Double Cream Stout</p> <h3>Nov. 8</h3> <p><strong>12 Bell's Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.1702az.com/">1702 Pizza</a> in Tucson from 6-8 p.m. – Porter, Winter White, Double Cream Stout, Kalamazoo Stout, Oberon, Amber, Two Hearted, Java Stout, Christmas Ale, Expedition Stout and Sparkling Ale</p> <h3>Nov. 9</h3> <p><strong>Mini-Tap Takeover:</strong> <a href="http://wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/raintree">Whole Foods in Scottsdale</a> from 4:30-6:30 p.m. - Rye Stout (tapped at 5:30 p.m.), Two Hearted and Porter</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Nov. 8</h3> <p><strong>Darkened Glass Night:</strong> <a href="http://bouldertaphouse.com/">Boulder Tap House</a> in St. Cloud at 5 p.m. - Black Note, Bourbon Barrel-Aged Batch 9,000, Expedition Stout, Java Stout, Special Double Cream Stout, 2011 Cherry Stout, Oatmeal Stout, Rye Stout, Hell Hath No Fury and Kalamazoo Stout</p> <h3>Nov. 9</h3> <p><strong>This one goes to 11 Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.sweeneyssaloon.com">Sweeney's</a> in St. Paul at 6 p.m.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>Nov. 9</h3> <p><strong>Movie Night: </strong><a href="http://www.moerleinlagerhouse.com/">The Moerlein Lager House</a> in Cincinnati from 6-9 p.m. - This one goes to 11, Hopsoulution and a firkin of Best Brown, plus a screening of "This is Spinal Tap." Appetizer plate and one beer are included with admission. Seating is limited. Please call 513-421-2337 for reservations.</p> <h2>Georgia</h2> <h3>Nov. 10-11</h3> <p><strong>The Grand Fermentables - Beer &amp; Cheese:</strong> <a href="http://www.sweetgrassdairy.com">Sweet Grass Dairy</a> in Thomasville – two beer dinners, a meet and greet and a tap takeover. <a href="http://sweetgrassdairy.com/">Go here for more information.</a></p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for dinner, a Bourbon Barrel-Aged Cherry Stout tapping, a night of Imperials and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look at our full calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-11-05T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Winners of Bell’s 3rd Annual Homebrew Competition announced http://bellsbeer.com/news/146-Winners%20of%20Bell%E2%80%99s%203rd%20Annual%20Homebrew%20Competition%20announced <p><img style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/0bac52ac7cff31376f3d529121bd061d.jpg" alt="2012HomebrewWinner.jpg" height="384" width="295">One hundred and twenty six entries were submitted for the 3<sup>rd</sup> Annual Bell’s Homebrew Competition and Nick Rodammer, pictured at right, took first prize with his Belgian black IPA.</p> <p>All of the winners were announced during All Stouts Day on Nov. 4 at the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Café</a>.</p> <p>Rodammer will get to brew his recipe with Specialty Brewer Zeke Bogan at our original brewery in downtown Kalamazoo to then go on tap at the Café.</p> <p>This is the same brewery where many of our smaller batches are brewed including The Wild One, the Jazz Series, Roundhouse IRA, Kal-Haven Ale, Harvest Ale, a number of specialty stouts and more.</p> <p>Overall, judges were very impressed with the caliber of entries this year, noting lots of experimentation and a lot of hops.</p> <p>There was also a good presence of beers made with wild yeast and bacteria, said David Curtis, Bell’s General Store Manager and coordinator for the competition.</p> <p>Last year’s winner, <a href="http://bit.ly/N2MR4z">A Bit of Heat, from Geoff Groff was brewed with paradise seeds, rose hips and habaneros.</a></p> <p>Look for details for the 4<sup>th</sup> Annual Bell’s Homebrew Competition to come in 2013.</p> <p>Cheers and congratulations to all!</p> <p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> place:</strong> Nick Rodammer, Belgian black IPA</p> <p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> place:</strong> Jay VonBuskirk, hoppy beer brewed with mango</p> <p><strong>3<sup>rd</sup> place:</strong> Adam and Britani Wisniewski, brown ale brewed with smoked malt</p> <p><strong>Runners-up</strong></p> <p>Sam Mirto, coffee porter</p> <p>Jerry Pardeik, citrusy IPA</p> <p>Richard Dueweke, weissbier</p> <p>Matt Holley, black IPA</p> <p>Brad Wyant, coconut cream stout</p> <p>Chris Carr, a beer fermented with lactobacillus and aged on oak and brettanomyces</p> <p>Alex Mantakounis, chocolate peanut butter cup porter</p> <p>Scott Fitzsimmons, citrusy pale ale</p> <p>Sam Bailey and Kyle Smith, tropical IPA</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-11-05T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News 17 stouts, special menu on tap for All Stouts Day 2012 http://bellsbeer.com/news/145-17%20stouts%2C%20special%20menu%20on%20tap%20for%20All%20Stouts%20Day%202012 <p><img style="float: right; border: 0.5px solid black; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" src="/files/cache/49160baaa504ebcf868fcca2fa38d105.jpg" alt="AllStoutsSampler.jpg" height="385" width="382">KALAMAZOO – On Sunday (Nov. 4), our taps will go dark once again for the 4<sup>th</sup> Annual All Stouts Day at the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Café</a>.</p> <p>Seventeen different stouts will be on tap, a variety of special menu items will be available and at 3 p.m., we will announce the winner of our 3<sup>rd</sup> Annual Homebrew Competition.</p> <p>Also, just in case the list below feels a little overwhelming, samplers are an option as well (six 5-ounce beers of your choice).</p> <p><strong>ON TAP:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Kalamazoo Stout</li> <li>Special Double Cream Stout</li> <li>Java Stout</li> <li>Expedition Stout</li> <li>Oatmeal Stout</li> <li>Rye Stout</li> <li>Milk Stout</li> <li>Trumpeter’s Stout</li> <li>Harry Magill's Spiced Stout</li> <li>Smoked Stout</li> <li>Dagger Stout</li> <li>Sweet Potato Stout</li> <li>Black Note</li> <li>Bourbon Barrel-Aged Cherry Stout</li> <li>Bourbon Barrel-Aged Batch 9,000</li> <li>Bourbon Barrel-Aged Kalamazoo Stout on nitrogen</li> <li>Bourbon Barrel-Aged Kalamazoo Stout firkin</li> </ul> <p><strong>ON THE MENU:</strong></p> <ul> <li>All stout stew (made with every one of our stouts)</li> <li>Seafood stew</li> <li>Shrimp cocktail</li> <li>Vegetarian meatloaf with mashed potatoes and Trumpeter’s Stout gravy</li> <li>Pot roast with mashed potatoes</li> <li>Brisket sliders with a Cherry Stout reduction</li> <li>Special Double Cream Stout beer marinated tempeh burger (vegetarian)</li> <li>Beer cheese soup made with Milk Stout (vegetarian)</li> <li>Jambalaya</li> <li>Appetizers from <a title="Menu" href="/eccentric-cafe/menu/">our regular menu</a></li> </ul> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-10-31T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: All Stouts Day, Iceman Cometh, tap takeover in Fargo and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/144-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20All%20Stouts%20Day%2C%20Iceman%20Cometh%2C%20tap%20takeover%20in%20Fargo%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/f0c00763fff012d326dc31d4b55acca2.jpg" alt="ClarkstonUnion.jpg" height="366" width="499">Below is a look at our events this week in Indiana, Michigan, Florida, North Dakota, North Carolina and Illinois.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Nov. 1</h3> <p><strong>Goshen Art Tour &amp; Bell's Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://www.springerdesigninc.com/">Springer Design</a> in Goshen from 5-9 p.m.</p> <p><strong>This One Goes to 11 Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.aconstantspring.com/">Constant Spring</a> in Goshen at 4 p.m.</p> <h3>Nov. 5</h3> <p><strong>Hail to Kale Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.jkodonnells.com/">JK O'Donnell's</a> in Fort Wayne at 6:30 p.m. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2478">Check out the menu here</a>.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Oct. 29</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://oneeyedbettys.com/">One Eyed Betty's </a>in Ferndale &nbsp;at 7 p.m. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2373">Take a look at the menu.</a></p> <h3>Oct. 30</h3> <p><strong>Split Personality:</strong> <a href="http://clarkstonunion.com">The Clarkston Union &amp; Union Woodshop</a> in Clarkston – dark beer downstairs and light beers upstairs.</p> <h3>Nov. 1</h3> <p><strong>Happy Hour Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://www.kalamazoowine.com/">Salut Fine Wine &amp; Spirits</a> in Kalamazoo from 4-6 p.m. – new and seasonal brews, free swag</p> <p><strong>Tap Night:</strong> <a href="http://logansalley.com/">Logan's Alley</a> in Grand Rapids at 5 p.m. - Black Note, Cherry Stout, Expedition Stout, Special Double Cream Stout, The Oracle DIPA and This one goes to 11 Ale.</p> <h3>Nov. &nbsp;3</h3> <p><strong>23<sup>rd</sup> Bell’s Beer Iceman Cometh Challenge:</strong> <a href="http://www.iceman.com/">Get more details here</a>.</p> <p><strong>2012 Sunset on the Season Party (official Iceman post race party):</strong> State Street Grill in Traverse City at 9 p.m. &nbsp;- Amber, Kalamazoo Stout, Two Hearted, Best Brown, Winter White, Hell Hath No Fury, Christmas Ale, Oarsman, Black Note, Sparkling Ale, Debs' Red, Golden Rye, Oracle, Midwestern Pale Ale and Roundhouse IRA will be on tap</p> <h3>Nov. 4</h3> <p><strong>All Stouts Day: </strong>16 different stouts on tap beginning at noon in Kalamazoo at the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Cafe</a>.</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>Nov. 1</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://www.abcfws.com/">ABC Liquor </a>Tasting:</strong> Tampa from 6-8 p.m. - Amber, Oberon and Two Hearted</p> <h2>North Dakota</h2> <h3>Nov. 1</h3> <p><strong>Bell's "Inundated:"</strong> <a href="http://jlbeers.com/518/">JL Beers-Downtown Fargo</a> at 4 p.m. &nbsp;- 21 different beers - Hopsoulution, Black Note, Christmas Ale, The Oracle, Consecrator Doppelbock, Chery Stout 2011, Sparkling Ale, Raspberry Ale, Bourbon Barrel-Aged Batch 9,000, Double Cream Stout, Expedition Stout, Third Coast Old Ale, Java Stout, Smoked Vienna Lager, Oatmeal Stout, Wedding Ale, Rye Stout, Le Pianiste, Le Contrebassiste, Debs' Red and Hell Hath No Fury</p> <h3>Nov. 2</h3> <p><strong>Keep the Pint Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.themoatsportsgrille.com/">The Moat </a>in Oviedo from 8-10 p.m. - Oberon and Two Hearted on draft. Purchase a pint and receive a Bell's glass to take home.</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>Nov. 3</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tasting: </strong><a href="http://eastfieldcharlotte.com/">Eastfield Bar &amp; Grill</a> in Charlotte - Best Brown, Winter White, Two Hearted, Porter, Smoked Vienna Lager, Midwestern Pale Ale, Amber and Java Stout. An additional tasting from 3-4 p.m. will also feature Special Double Cream Stout, Hell Hath No Fury and Oarsman.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Nov. 5</h3> <p><strong>Beer Dinner:<a href="http://www.oldtownsocial.com/"> </a></strong><a href="http://www.oldtownsocial.com/">Old Town Social</a> in Chicago at 7 p.m. - four courses paired with Kalamazoo Stout, Sparkling Ale, The Oracle and Third Coast Beer. Call 312-266-2277 or <a href="http://www.eventbrite.com/event/4635769712">go here</a> for more information or to make reservations.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for multiple beer dinners, some jazz, a dark glass night and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look at our full calendar.<br></a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-10-29T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Detroit Beer Week, Hell Hath No Fury, a split personality and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/143-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Detroit%20Beer%20Week%2C%20Hell%20Hath%20No%20Fury%2C%20a%20split%20personality%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/2fc10076ade93598587399f46000ee92.jpg" alt="MacCheese.jpg" height="577" width="386">Below is a look at our events in Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Georgia, Florida and Minnesota.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>Oct. 23</h3> <p><strong>Cleveland Beer Week - Tap feature:</strong> <a href="http://www.citytapcleveland.com/">City Tap</a> in Cleveland at 5 p.m. &nbsp;– Black Note, Golden Rye, Two Hearted, Oarsman and more</p> <h3>Oct. 27</h3> <p><strong>Cleveland Beer Week - Brewzilla:</strong> Galleria at Erieview in Cleveland from 6-10 p.m. &nbsp;- Amber Ale, Expedition Stout, Hell Hath No Fury … Ale, Midwestern Pale Ale and This one goes to 11 Ale. For more information, <a href="http://www.clevelandbeerweek.com">go here</a>.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Oct. 23</h3> <p><strong>Detroit Beer Week Kick-off:</strong> <a href="http://www.slowsbarbq.com/">Slows Bar BQ</a> in Detroit from 4-7 p.m. &nbsp;– This one goes to 11, Oracle, our Jazz Series, Two Hearted, Oberon, Hopsoulution and Rye Stout</p> <h3>Oct. 24</h3> <p><strong>Detroit Beer Week - Multi-Tap Event:</strong> <a href="http://greendotstables.com/">Green Dot Stables</a> in Detroit at 5 p.m. &nbsp;- This one goes to 11 Ale, Hopsoulution, 2011 Cherry Stout and Golden Rye</p> <h3>Oct. 25</h3> <p><strong>Detroit Beer Week - Multi-Tap Event:</strong> <a href="http://mercuryburgerbar.com/">Mercury Burger &amp; Bar</a> in Detroit at 5 p.m. &nbsp;- This one goes to 11 Ale, Debs' Red, Hell Hath No Fury ... Ale, Black Note, Third Coast Old Ale, Best Brown, Sparkling Ale, Oberon, Oarsman, Octoberfest and Kal-Haven Ale</p> <p><strong>Trick or treat - Halloween Beer Dinner:</strong> Cravings Bistro &amp; Pub in Benton Harbor at 6 p.m. &nbsp;The menu for this five course meal features rack of lamb, Smoked Vienna Lager, Best Brown crème brulee, Kalamazoo Stout and more. Reservations are required. For more information, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2246">go here</a>.</p> <h3>Oct. 26</h3> <p><strong>Detroit Beer Week - Palate Preparation Party:</strong> <a href="http://www.grandtrunkpub.com">Forans Grand Trunk Pub</a> in Detroit at 3 p.m. – 13 beers on tap including This one goes to 11, Hopsoulution, Black Note and more</p> <h3>Oct. 26-27</h3> <p><a href="http://www.michiganbrewersguild.org/events.html"><strong>4<sup>th</sup> Annual Detroit Fall Beer Festival:</strong></a> 2-day event at Eastern Market – we’re bringing Black Note, &nbsp;Bourbon Barrel-Aged Cherry Stout, Bourbon Barrel-Aged Batch 9,000, Kal-Haven Ale, OctoberFest, Oberon, &nbsp;Cherry Stout (2011), Best Brown Ale, Two Hearted Ale, MBG 15th Anniversary Ale, This one goes to 11, Debs' Red, Special Double Cream Stout, &nbsp;Le Batteur,&nbsp; Le Pianiste,&nbsp; Le Contrebassiste, Oatmeal Stout, Hopsoulution Ale,&nbsp; The Oracle DIPA and Sparkling Ale</p> <h3>Oct. 28</h3> <p><strong>Beer + Tequila Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.casabolerokzoo.com/">Casa Bolero</a> in Kalamazoo at 6 p.m. – Six course meal featuring three different beers and three different tequilas. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2253">Take a look at the menu here</a>. (See photo as well.)</p> <h3>Oct. 30</h3> <p><strong>Split Personality:</strong> The Clarkston Union &amp; Union Woodshop in Clarkston starting at 5:30 p.m. – Light beers upstairs and dark beers downstairs</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Oct. 25</h3> <p><strong>Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://citywideliquors.com/">City Wide Liquors </a>in South Bend from 5-8 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Hell Hath No Fury Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.maxsplace.info/">Max's Place</a> in Bloomington at 6 p.m.</p> <h2>Georgia</h2> <h3>Oct. 25</h3> <p><strong>Atlanta Beer Week - Epic Beer &amp; Cheese Tasting:</strong><a href="http://www.theporterbeerbar.com/"> The Porter Beer Bar</a> at 6 p.m. &nbsp;– 14 different beers and cheeses. No reservations required. Other participating breweries include Terrapin, Heavy Seas, Left Hand and more.</p> <p><strong>Atlanta Beer Week - Sweet Grass Dairy Beer &amp; Cheese Tasting</strong>: <a href="http://wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/buckhead/">Whole Foods</a> - Three Bell's beers paired with local cheeses. Also featuring Stone Brewing Co.</p> <h3>Oct. 27</h3> <p><strong>Atlanta Beer Week - Rare Beer &amp; Specialty Cheese Pairing:</strong> <a href="http://www.brickstorepub.com/">Brick Store Pub</a> - Roundhouse IRA, Le Batteur and Wedding Ale paired with a specialty cheese menu</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>Oct. 26</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tasting:</strong> Grapevine Fine Wine &amp; Spirits in Lakeland from 5-7 p.m. &nbsp;– Tasting purchase includes a Bell’s pint glass – Amber, Best Brown, Two Hearted and more</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Oct. 26</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner: </strong><a href="http://www.chestnutmtn.com/">Chestnut Mountain Resort</a> in Galena at 6:30 p.m. – Five course menu includes Porter braised short ribs, scallop and prawn salads paired with Oarsman Ale and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2351">Take a look at the menu here</a>.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Oct. 26</h3> <p><strong>This one goes to 11 Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://bouldertaphouse.com/">Boulder Tap House</a> in St Cloud at 5 p.m.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for beer dinners in Michigan and Minnesota, a split personality in Clarkston and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look at our full calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-10-23T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Homebrew competition deadline is coming up, download entry form and labels http://bellsbeer.com/news/142-Homebrew%20competition%20deadline%20is%20coming%20up%2C%20download%20entry%20form%20and%20labels <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/4028412a52030f9a6e1242b82d5c2343.jpg" alt="3rdAnnualBell'sHomebrewExpo" height="341" width="513">The deadline to submit your entry for our 3rd Annual Homebrew Competition is 9 p.m. Oct. 26.</p> <p>Entries can be dropped off or mailed to the <a title="General Store" href="/index.php?cID=139">Bell's General Store</a> (Attn: David Curtis).</p> <p>Remember, you must have used our wort, which we handed out back in September.</p> <p>The winner will be announced during <strong>All Stouts Day on Nov. 4</strong>.</p> <p><a title="HomebrewForm.pdf" href="/index.php/download_file/view/997/63/">Download the complete rules and entry form here.</a></p> <p><a title="HomebrewEntryLabels.pdf" href="/index.php/download_file/view/998/63/">Download the labels for each of your four bottles of homebrew here.</a></p> <p>Cheers and good luck!</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-10-19T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Take a look: 2012 Deroit Fall Beer Festival tap list, Detroit Beer Week events http://bellsbeer.com/news/141-Take%20a%20look%3A%202012%20Deroit%20Fall%20Beer%20Festival%20tap%20list%2C%20Detroit%20Beer%20Week%20events <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/db4da5de2dc0a46b7c06f1be52429959.jpg" alt="DetroitBeerFest.jpg" height="263" width="439">Here is our tap list for this year's <a href="http://www.michiganbrewersguild.org/events.html">Detroit Fall Beer Festival</a> at <a href="http://www.detroiteasternmarket.com/">Eastern Market</a>:</p> <ul> <li> Black Note </li> <li> Bourbon Barrel-Aged Cherry Stout </li> <li> Bourbon Barrel-Aged Batch 9,000 </li> <li> Kal-Haven Ale </li> <li> OctoberFest </li> <li> Oberon </li> <li> Cherry Stout (2011)</li> <li>Best Brown Ale </li> <li>Two Hearted Ale </li> <li>MBG 15th Anniversary Ale </li> <li>This one goes to 11 </li> <li>Debs' Red </li> <li>Double Cream Stout </li> <li>Le Batteur </li> <li>Le Pianiste </li> <li>Le Contrebassiste </li> <li>Oatmeal Stout </li> <li>Hopsoulution Ale </li> <li>The Oracle DIPA</li> <li>Sparkling Ale</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <div class="text_exposed_show">In addition, we also have four events celebrating <a href="http://www.detbeerweek.com/">Detroit Beer Week</a>. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look.</a></div> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-10-19T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: This one goes to 11, Cleveland Beer Week, brunch and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/140-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20This%20one%20goes%20to%2011%2C%20Cleveland%20Beer%20Week%2C%20brunch%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/875301bbde4bbb85e8815dd7d3ed534e.jpg" alt="PennyBlackDinner.jpg" height="636" width="413">Below is a look at our events this week in Michigan, North Carolina, Illinois, Minnesota, Indiana, Arizona, Ohio and Georgia.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Oct. 16</h3> <p><strong>27 Beers for 27 Years:</strong><a href="http://ashleys.com/index.html"> Ashley's</a> Ann Arbor: For the complete tap list and special times, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2374">go here</a>.</p> <h3>Oct. 18</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.PBrochester.com">The Penny Black </a>in Rochester at 5:30 p.m. – 6 beers on draft, flight options and a firkin. Reservations are required.</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>Oct. 17</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tasting:</strong><a href="http://www.saludbeershop.com/"> Salud Beer Shop</a> in Davidson from 5:30 - 7 p.m. – Amber, Best Brown, Midwestern Pale Ale, Porter, Two Hearted and Rye Stout</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Oct. 17</h3> <p><strong>This one goes to 11 Ale Tapping:</strong><a href="http://www.oldtownepubeatery.com/"> Old Towne Pub</a> in Geneva at 5 p.m. – Best Brown and Two Hearted will also be on tap</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Oct. 19</h3> <p><strong>Tasting:</strong> <a href="http://www.france44.com/">France 44</a> in Minneapolis from 4-6:30 p.m. &nbsp;- Amber Ale, Best Brown, Kalamazoo Stout, Lager, Oarsman, Porter, Third Coast Beer and Two Hearted Ale</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Oct. 16</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.beersellar.net/indy/default.html">The Beer Sellar</a>, Indianapolis at 6 p.m. - Hopsoulution, Sparkling Ale, Hell Hath No Fury, This One Goes to 11 and a cask of Two Hearted Ale</p> <h3>Oct. 18</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.finchsbrasserie.com/">Finch's Brasserie</a> in Bloomington. Call 812-333-2700 for more information.</p> <h3>Oct. 19</h3> <p><strong>Black Note Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://thebishopbar.com/">The Bishop Bar</a> in Bloomington at 8 p.m.</p> <h3>Oct. 20</h3> <p><strong>3rd Annual October Craft Beer Festival:</strong> <a href="http://www.deerparkpub.com">Deer Park Irish Pub</a> in Fort Wayne from 1-5 p.m.</p> <h2>Arizona</h2> <h3>Oct. 19</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover &amp; Pint Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.hungrymonkaz.com">The Hungry Monk</a> in Chandler from 6-9 p.m. &nbsp;- Kalamazoo Stout, Two Hearted, Pale Ale, Best Brown, Oberon and The Oracle (pint and flight specials)</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>Oct. 19</h3> <p><strong>Cleveland Beer Week - IPA Trifecta: </strong><a href="http://meltbarandgrilled.com/">Melt Bar and Grilled</a> (Cleveland locations) from noon until close - Two Hearted, Hopsoulution and The Oracle</p> <h3>Oct. 20</h3> <p><strong>Cleveland Beer Week - Bell's Jazz Series:</strong> <a href="http://stampersbar.com/">Stampers </a>in Cleveland at 7 p.m. - 3 interpretations of the French Biere de Garde Style - Le Batteur Ale, Le Contrebassiste Ale and Le Pianiste Ale.</p> <p><strong>Cleveland Beer Week - This one goes to 11 tappings:</strong> 3 <a href="http://www.winkinglizard.com/">Winking Lizard</a> locations (Bedford Heights, Gateway and Independence) at 11 a.m.</p> <h3>Oct. 21</h3> <p><strong>Cleveland Beer Week - Culture Yourself:</strong> <a href="http://www.greatlakesbrewing.com/">Great Lakes Brewing Co.</a> in Cleveland from 2-4 &amp; 6-8 p.m. - Best Brown Ale, Midwestern Pale Ale, Oarsman and Two Hearted Ale</p> <h2>Georgia</h2> <h3>Oct. 20</h3> <p><strong>Brewer's Brunch: </strong><a href="http://squarepubdecatur.com/">The Square Pub</a> in Decatur at 10 a.m. - gear up for the Great Decatur Beer Festival with breakfast burritos, pastries and specialty cheeses from Sweet Grass Dairy in addition to some fine Bell’s brews</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p><strong>Cleveland Craft Beer Week continues, Detroit Beer Week begins, a Halloween Beer Dinner in Benton Harbor and more:</strong><a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/"> View our complete calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-10-15T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News 2012 Great American Beer Festival: 5 Bell's beers will be available including Kal-Haven Ale, Roundhouse http://bellsbeer.com/news/139-2012%20Great%20American%20Beer%20Festival%3A%205%20Bell%27s%20beers%20will%20be%20available%20including%20Kal-Haven%20Ale%2C%20Roundhouse <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/5013/4979/3361/2012GABFLogo.jpg" alt="2012GABFLogo.jpg" height="436" width="417">If you are going to be at this year’s <a href="http://www.greatamericanbeerfestival.com/">Great American Beer Festival</a> in Denver, be sure to stop by the Bell’s table and say hello.</p> <p>This year, we’ll be pouring …</p> <p><strong>Roundhouse IRA:</strong> Distinctly hop-forward, <em>Roundhouse IRA</em> possesses substantial amounts of late-kettle hop additions &amp; dry-hopping, yielding a heady blend of fruit-like aromas such as pineapple, peach, and the citrus family. These notes continue into a crisply bitter hop presence across the tongue, but the judicious use of toasted &amp; caramel specialty malts prevents the hop intensity from overwhelming the palate. Rather, the malt body lends a slight caramel undertone to the beer, creating a smooth, dry finish that pulls everything together.</p> <p><strong>Kal-Haven Ale: </strong>Combining malted &amp; unmalted rye with a blend of kilned barley malts, <em>Kal-Haven Ale</em> brings a rich, earthy malt body to the glass. The use of Brettanomyces yeast in fermentation lends a degree of depth to the flavors, while pine &amp; citrus notes from a blend of Pacific Northwest hops keep it from becoming heavy.</p> <p><strong>Smoked Vienna Lager:</strong> A balanced addition of smoked malts results in a subtle, smoky aroma that defines our Smoked Vienna Lager. Vienna &amp; Munich malts lend toasty notes, while the presence of a blend of European hops complement the whole with a crisp bitterness and slightly drying finish.</p> <p><strong>Two Hearted Ale:</strong> Two Hearted Ale is defined by its intense hop aroma and malt balance. Hopped exclusively with the Centennial hop varietal from the Pacific Northwest, massive additions in the kettle and again in the fermenter lend their characteristic grapefruit and pine resin aromas. A significant malt body balances this hop presence; together with the signature fruity aromas of our house yeast, this leads to a remarkably drinkable American-style India Pale Ale.</p> <p><strong>Porter: </strong>One of our many award-winning beers, Porter emphasizes the darker, roasted aspects of malt. Hints of dark chocolate and freshly roasted coffee provide the focus, while hops remain in the background. Not as full-bodied as a stout, Porter bridges the gap between malty brown ales and our more heavily roasted stouts.</p> <p>Cheers!</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-10-08T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Pint Night at Kudu, Muddy Pig anniversary, This one goes to 11 and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/138-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Pint%20Night%20at%20Kudu%2C%20Muddy%20Pig%20anniversary%2C%20This%20one%20goes%20to%2011%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/5713/4970/7994/420480_10151119501044682_1514921249_n.jpg" alt="420480_10151119501044682_1514921249_n.jpg" height="640" width="427">A look at our events this week in Florida, Minnesota, Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, Illinois, Arizona, South Carolina and Washington DC.</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>Oct. 10</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night: </strong><a href="http://www.hobflorida.com/">House of Beer</a> in Orlando from 8-10 p.m. - Amber, Best Brown, Hell Hath No Fury, Kalamazoo Stout, Oberon, Octoberfest and Two Hearted Ale</p> <h3>Oct. 13</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://www.swandolphinfoodandwineclassic.com/dfb.html">Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic</a>:</strong> From 6:30 - 10 p.m. - Amber, Kalamazoo Stout, Oberon and Two Hearted</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Oct. 10</h3> <p><strong>Multi-Tap Event:</strong> <a href="http://www.muddypig.com">Muddy Pig</a> in St. Paul at 5 p.m. &nbsp;– This 10<sup>th</sup> Anniversary Celebration will include a cask of Two Hearted, Wedding Ale, The Jazz Series, Roundhouse IRA, Debs' Red, Hopsoulution, The Oracle, 2011 Cherry Stout and Golden Rye. There will also be special tappings of Black Note at 6 p.m. and Batch 10,000 at 8 p.m.</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>Oct. 10</h3> <p><strong>Brews for Beargrass:</strong> <a href="http://wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/louisville">Whole Foods Market in Louisville</a> from 3-7 p.m. - Amber Ale, Best Brown, Expedition Stout and Two Hearted</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Oct. 10</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tap Party:</strong><a href="http://www.jkodonnells.com/"> JK O'Donnell's Irish Ale House</a> in Fort Wayne at 5 p.m. – The Oracle, Octoberfest, Oberon and Two Hearted</p> <h3>Oct. 11</h3> <p><strong>Oracle/Firkin Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.deerparkpub.com">Deer Park Irish Pub</a> in Fort Wayne at 6:30 p.m.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Oct. 11</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover:</strong> <a href="http://www.sharkclubhowell.com/">Shark Club</a> in Howell at 6 p.m. – 15 beers on tap including This one goes to 11 Ale, Octoberfest and our Jazz Series</p> <h3>Oct. 13</h3> <p><a href="http://uptoberfest.org/">7th Annual UPtoberfest </a>in Escanaba from 2-7 p.m.</p> <h2>Missouri</h2> <h3>Oct. 11</h3> <p><strong>Oracle Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.beerknurd.com/stores/kansascity/">Flying Saucer</a> in Kansas City</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Oct. 11</h3> <p><strong>Autumn Brews:</strong> Seasonal Beer Tasting in the Garden at <a href="http://www.chicagobotanic.org/">Chicago Botanic Garden</a> in Glencoe from 6-8 p.m. – Amber, Best Brown, Oarsman and Two Hearted</p> <h3>Oct. 12</h3> <p><strong>Flight Night:</strong> <a href="http://www.prairiemoonrestaurant.com/">Prairie Moon</a> in Evanston from 5-9 p.m. - Best Brown, Midwestern Pale Ale, Oatmeal Stout and The Oracle will be available in both sample flights and by the pint.</p> <h2>Arizona</h2> <h3>Oct. 11</h3> <p><strong>Oracle Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://wobusa.com/tempe">World of Beers </a>in Tempe</p> <h2>South Carolina</h2> <h3>Oct. 11</h3> <p><strong>Collaborative Pint Night:</strong> <a href="http://kuducharleston.com/">Kudu </a>in Charleston from 6-11 p.m. - We're teaming up with Westbrook Brewing Co. for a collaborative pint night. We're bringing Smoked Vienna Lager, Roundhouse IRA, Le Contrabassiste, Best Brown, Midwestern Pale Ale and a firkin of Two Hearted. Go here for more information.</p> <h2>Washington DC</h2> <h3>Oct. 13</h3> <p><a href="http://www.snallygasterdc.com"><strong>Snallygaster:</strong></a> Octoberfest will be available at this event in <a href="http://www.yardspark.org/">Yards Park.</a></p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for 27 beers on tap in Ann Arbor, a tasting in Davidson (NC), a beer dinner in Chicago and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look at our full calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-10-08T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Comstock Brewery tours begin Oct. 6; museum hours begin Oct. 9 http://bellsbeer.com/news/137-Comstock%20Brewery%20tours%20begin%20Oct.%206%3B%20museum%20hours%20begin%20Oct.%209 <p><img style="margin: 8px; float: right;" src="/files/cache/cfcba831d9de7fb52f80ae1c583b7d10.jpg" alt="UP.jpg" width="300" height="200">Our new <a title="200-barrel Brewhouse/Expansion" href="/about/200-barrel-brewhouse/">200-barrel brewhouse</a> will officially open to the public beginning this weekend.</p> <p>Free, guided tours will be offered on Saturdays at 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.</p> <p>Self guided tours will also be offered beginning October 9<strong>. </strong>Everyone is welcome to visit the brewing gallery from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays. Tour Coordinator, Clay Karz will be available to answer questions.</p> <p>The brewhouse was part of our most recent expansion that broke ground in April 2011 and was completed in May.</p> <p>That expansion also included additional fermentation space, expanded grain handling facilities and more.</p> <p>For more information about brewery tours in both Comstock and Kalamazoo,<a title="Tours" href="/visit/tours/"> go here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-10-04T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Smoked Vienna Lager, Chicago Beer Fest, BontebOktoberfest and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/136-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Smoked%20Vienna%20Lager%2C%20Chicago%20Beer%20Fest%2C%20BontebOktoberfest%20and%20more <p>A look at our events this week in North Dakota, Minnesota, Illinois, Indiana, Florida and Michigan.</p> <h2>North Dakota</h2> <h3>October 1</h3> <p><strong>Minot Launch Party: </strong>Bootlegrz Bar in Minot at 6:30 p.m. – Debs’ Red, Golden Rye, Rye Stout and more.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>October 1</h3> <p><strong>10 Years to the Pigs with Smoked Vienna Lager:</strong> <a href="http://www.muddypig.com">Muddy Pig</a> (St. Paul) &amp; <a href="http://www.pignfiddle.com/">Pig-N-Fiddle</a> (Minneapolis) - simultaneous tappings</p> <h3>October 3</h3> <p><strong>Fiddle and Bell's Beer Dinner: </strong><a href="http://www.pignfiddle.com/">Pig-N-Fiddle</a> in Minneapolis &nbsp;at 6 p.m. – five courses, Wedding Ale, Roundhouse, a firkin of Two Hearted and more. For more information or reservations, call 952-955-8385.</p> <h3>October 5</h3> <p><strong>Hop-Centric Night:</strong> <a href="http://bouldertaphouse.com/">Boulder Tap House</a> in St. Cloud at 5 p.m. &nbsp;– Two Hearted, Debs’ Red, Roundhouse IRA and a cask of Pale Ale</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>October 6</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://thechicagobeerfestival.com/">Chicago Beer Fest:</a></strong> Union Station from 1-4 p.m. &amp; 6-9 p.m. &nbsp;– <a href="http://thechicagobeerfestival.com/">Go here for tickets</a>.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>October 4-5</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://www.bigredliquors.com/">Big Red Beer Fest:</a> </strong>Bloomington Convention Center from 6-9 p.m. &nbsp;– year round beers, plus a few seasonal offerings</p> <h3>October 6</h3> <p><strong>The Ordinary Craft Beer Fest:</strong> <a href="http://www.nbopizza.net/">New Bethel Ordinary Restaurant and Lounge</a> in Wanamaker from 2-7 p.m. &nbsp;– live music, pizza, Two Hearted, Best Brown and more</p> <p><strong><a href="http://themileslab.com/">Miles Lab Oktoberfest</a>:</strong> Elkhart from 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. – get a taste of this year’s Octoberfest, available only on draft this year</p> <p><strong>Porter's Perfect Pint Festival:</strong> Hawthorne Park in Porter from noon - 5 p.m. &nbsp;– we’ll be pouring Best Brown, Two Hearted, Porter and Le Pianiste Ale. Call 219-926-6211 for more information.</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>October 4</h3> <p><strong>ABC Liquor Tasting:</strong> Tampa from 6-8 p.m. &nbsp;– three beers including Two Hearted Ale.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>October 5</h3> <p><strong>BontebOktober Fest:</strong> <a href="http://www.binderparkzoo.org">Binder Park Zoo</a> in Battle Creek from 6-10 p.m. – five beers, live music and a tour of the zoo</p> <h3>October 6</h3> <p><strong>4th Annual Skitoberfest:</strong> Boyne Mountain from 2 p.m. - midnight &nbsp;- celebrate the best of fall in an Oktoberfest setting. <a href="http://www.boyne.com/BoyneMountain/AnnualEvents/Skitoberfest.html">Go here for more information.</a></p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for multi-tap event in St. Paul, a tap takeover in Howell, Michigan, an Oracle tapping in Kansas City and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2">Take a look at our complete calendar here</a>.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-10-01T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: BBQ, Black Note, pumpkin carving and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/134-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20BBQ%2C%20Black%20Note%2C%20pumpkin%20carving%20and%20more <p>Here is a look at our events this week in Kentucky, Florida, Virginia, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, Wisconsin and Indiana.</p> <p>Would you like events emailed directly to you?&nbsp;<a href="http://bellsbeer.com/contact/mailing-list/">Subscribe to our monthly eMail Newsletter.</a></p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>Sept. 25</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="http://wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/louisville">Whole Foods in Louisville</a>&nbsp;at 6 p.m. – five course meal with Bell’s beers including Black Note. Reservations are required.</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>Sept. 25</h3> <p><strong>Beer Dinner:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.frescoslakeland.com/">Fresco's</a>&nbsp;in Lakeland at 7 p.m. &nbsp;– multiple beers including Two Hearted, Kalamazoo Stout and Best Brown. Space is limited.</p> <h2>Virginia</h2> <h3>Sept. 26</h3> <p><strong>Special tap selections:</strong>&nbsp;Bell's at Beer Run in Charlottesville at 5:30 p.m. – Batch 9,000, Black Note, Wedding Ale, Rye Stout, Smoked Vienna Lager and Two Hearted.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Sept. 26</h3> <p><strong>Octoberfest Celebration:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.karlscabin.com/">Karl's Cabin</a>&nbsp;in Plymouth from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. &nbsp;– German buffet, multiple Bell’s beers. Reservations are required.</p> <h3>Sept. 27</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.yankeerebeltavern.com/">Yankee Rebel Tavern</a>&nbsp;on Mackinac Island at 7:30 p.m. &nbsp;–&nbsp;<a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2367">See the menu here</a>. Reservations are required.</p> <p><strong>2nd Annual Bell's &amp; BBQ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.millenniumrestaurants.com/central-city-tap-house/">Central City Tap House</a>&nbsp;in Kalamazoo at 5:30 p.m. – Nine beers on tap, raw bar, BBQ specials</p> <p><strong>Beer Dinner: </strong><a href="http://www.arcadiabluffs.com/">Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club </a>in Arcadia. For more information or reservations, please call 231-889-3009.</p> <h3>Sept. 29</h3> <p><strong>Oktoberfest Celebration:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.ashleys.com/">Ashley's Westland</a>&nbsp;at 5 p.m. &nbsp;– Prizes for wearing your best Oktoberfest themed outfit, German style food, live music</p> <p><strong>Pumpkin Carving &amp; Bell's Brews:</strong>&nbsp;Zeb's Trading Co. in Kalamazoo at 1 p.m. – special tappings of Roundhouse and Le Batteur</p> <p><a href="http://www.wekobeachbrewersfest.com"><strong>Weko Beach Brewers Festival:</strong></a> We'll be pouring Amber, Java Stout and Two Hearted in Bridgman from 1-7 p.m.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Sept. 28</h3> <p><strong>Tasting:</strong>&nbsp;Northfield Liquor in Northfield &nbsp;from 4-6 p.m.</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>Sept. 29</h3> <p><strong>14th Annual&nbsp;<a href="http://www.charlotteoktoberfest.com/">Charlotte Oktoberfest</a></strong>: From 2-7 p.m. – Two Hearted, Porter and Amber Ale</p> <h2>Wisconsin</h2> <h3>Sept. 29</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://www.quiveysgrove.com/beerfest/beerfestmain.htm">Quivey's Grove Beer Fest</a>:</strong>&nbsp;Madison from noon-5 p.m. Tickets are available online and at Quivey’s Grove.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Sept. 29</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://valpobrewfest.com/main.html">Valpo Brew Fest</a></strong>: Downtown Valparaiso from 1-5 p.m. – two firkins, Octoberfest, Roundhouse, Best Brown and more. Please note, this event is sold out.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for a Minot Launch Party in North Dakota, 10 Years to the Pigs Celebration in Minnesota, a tasting in Tampa and more.&nbsp;<a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Check out our full calendar here</a>.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-09-25T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell’s Pale Ale gets a new name and label; Midwestern Pale Ale begins shipping soon http://bellsbeer.com/news/133-Bell%E2%80%99s%20Pale%20Ale%20gets%20a%20new%20name%20and%20label%3B%20Midwestern%20Pale%20Ale%20begins%20shipping%20soon <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/398ae3db11000f3a974f575de2710bf8.png" alt="BellsMPALabelFrnt.png" height="412" width="422">COMSTOCK, MICH. – Bell’s Pale Ale is getting a facelift.</p> <p>While the label and the name are changing, the recipe will remain basically the same except for one small, yet very significant change.</p> <p>Midwestern Pale Ale will now be brewed with a small portion of barley from the <a title="Bell's Farm" href="/about/farm/">Bell’s Farm</a> in Shepherd, Michigan and will begin shipping in mid-October.</p> <p>“This is a relatively minor change to the recipe and people won’t notice anything different, however its part of a much larger picture,” said Laura Bell, Marketing Director for Bell’s Brewery, Inc.</p> <p>It’s a deeper connection to the land, to Michigan and its agricultural heritage and to the Midwest, Bell said.</p> <p>Barley from the Bell’s Farm is also used to brew two other beers – Christmas Ale and Harvest Ale (also made with Michigan grown hops).</p> <p>The new label features an original painting of the Bell’s Farm by Kalamazoo artist Conrad Kaufman.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-09-24T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Early spring weather affects Bell’s Cherry Stout production for 2012 http://bellsbeer.com/news/132-Early%20spring%20weather%20affects%20Bell%E2%80%99s%20Cherry%20Stout%20production%20for%202012 <p><strong></strong><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/ab016335457378d752b2c23eea8fba57.png" alt="CherryStout_label.tif.png" height="319" width="325">COMSTOCK – Since it was first released in 1988, Bell’s Cherry Stout has always been brewed with 100-percent Montmorency cherry juice made from cherries grown in northern Michigan’s Traverse City region.</p> <p>We are extremely proud of this deep connection to our home state.</p> <p>This seasonal beer is released annually in October along with other stouts in our portfolio – Java Stout, Expedition Stout, Special Double Cream Stout and others. Unfortunately, that tradition will have to be put on hold this year.</p> <p>Warm temperatures followed by multiple frosts earlier this year severely affected Michigan’s tart cherry crop to such an extent that unfortunately, there will be no new batches of Cherry Stout in 2012.</p> <p>A small number of Cherry Stout kegs from 2011 will be released on a limited basis however.</p> <p>While we do hope that a bountiful harvest will allow us to bring this beer back to our fall stout line-up next year, more importantly, we are hopeful that it will allow Michigan’s fruit growers to recover as well.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-09-21T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Beer dinners, Charlottesville Beer Festival and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/131-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Beer%20dinners%2C%20Charlottesville%20Beer%20Festival%20and%20more%20 <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/065b7890a2ef5f43f786083b3336c894.jpg" alt="CaptainJoesMenu.jpg" height="452" width="349">Below is a look at the rest of our events this week in Indiana, North Dakota, Michigan, Florida, Wisconsin, Virginia and Arizona.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Sept. 19</h3> <p><strong>Oracle Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.flatwaterbroadripple.com/">Flatwater </a>in Indianapolis</p> <h3>Sept. 20</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Hopped Up Night:</strong> Bar Louie in Mishawaka at 5 p.m. - Hopsoulution, Oracle and Two Hearted</p> <h3>Sept. 22</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://indiana.cff.org/festivale">Festiv-Ale:</a></strong> Downtown Indianapolis from 4-8 p.m. &nbsp;– live entertainment, portion of your ticket is tax deductible (to benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation)</p> <h3>Sept. 23</h3> <p><strong>Charity Beer Dinner:</strong> Club Soda in Fort Wayne from 4-7 p.m. – six courses, firkin tapping, silent auction. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2296">More details can be found here.</a></p> <h2>North Dakota</h2> <h3>Sept. 19</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.east40foodanddrink.com/">East 40</a> in Bismarck at 6 p.m. - Two Hearted, Kalamazoo Stout, Porter, Octoberfest, and Le Batteur. Reservations are required.</p> <h3>Sept. 20</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Baker's Dozen: </strong><a href="http://thewalrusrestaurant.com/">The Walrus</a> in Bismarck at 5 p.m. – 13 beers on tap - Black Note, Roundhouse, Le Batteur, Le Pianiste, Le Contrebassiste, Debs' Red, Kalamazoo Stout, Amber, <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">Oberon</span> Hell Hath No Fury ... Ale, Two Hearted, Smoked Vienna Lager, Golden Rye, and Octoberfest</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Sept. 19</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://benedictssteakhouseandgrill.net/">Benedict's Steakhouse &amp; Grill</a> in Coldwater at 6:30 p.m. &nbsp;– Roundhouse, Oracle, Octoberfest and more.</p> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.captainjoesgrill.com/">Captain Joe's</a> in Whitmore Lake at 6:30 p.m. – Octoberfest, Oberon, Amber, Two Hearted, Wedding Ale (menu above, left)</p> <h3>Sept. 20</h3> <p><strong>Wing Challenge:</strong> <a href="http://www.buffalobbqwings.com/">Buffalo Barbeque Wings</a> in Jackson at 6 p.m. – prizes for the messiest, fastest, barest – Oberon, Two Hearted and Oarsman</p> <p><strong>Bell's Night: </strong>The Hangar Bar &amp; Grill in Kalamazoo – a la carte beer dinner, swag and specialty beers including Debs’ Red and Roundhouse IRA. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2248">Take a look at the menu</a>.</p> <h3>Sept. 22</h3> <p><span style="text-decoration: line-through;"><strong>Tap Explosion:</strong> <a href="http://www.hofbrauinterlochen.com/">The Hofbrau</a> in Interlochen all day - Oberon, Two Hearted, Amber, Lager, Vienna Smoked Lager, Octoberfest, Pale Ale and Oarsman </span>*Apologies - This event has been cancelled and will be rescheduled for a later date.</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>Sept. 20</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night: </strong><a href="http://www.peleswoodfire.com/">Pele's Wood Fire</a> in Jacksonville from 7:30 - 10:30 p.m. – Kalamazoo Stout, Oberon and Two Hearted</p> <h2>Wisconsin</h2> <h3>Sept. 20</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner:</strong> <a href="http://www.redonioncaferacine.com/">Red Onion Café</a> in Racine at 6 p.m.</p> <h2>Virginia</h2> <h3>Sept. 22</h3> <p><strong>Tops of the Hops:</strong> <a href="http://topofthehopsbeerfest.com/charlottesville/">Charlottesville Beer Festival </a>from 3-7 p.m. – Octoberfest and Amber Ale.</p> <h2>Arizona</h2> <h3>Sept. 22</h3> <p><strong>Oracle Tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.papagobrewing.com">Papago Brewing Co.</a> in Scottsdale at 11 a.m.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us at Whole Foods in Louisville, Karl’s Cabin in Plymouth, Michigan, Beer Run in Charlotte and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Our full calendar can be found here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-09-18T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Visiting the Eccentric Cafe, General Store? Be aware of construction, alternate route http://bellsbeer.com/news/130-Visiting%20the%20Eccentric%20Cafe%2C%20General%20Store%3F%20Be%20aware%20of%20construction%2C%20alternate%20route <p>KALAMAZOO - If you are planning on visiting the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Cafe</a> in downtown Kalamazoo soon, please be advised that due to construction, a portion of Kalamazoo Ave. is closed until the end of September/early October.</p> <p><a href="http://www.michigan.gov/mdot/">The Michigan Department of Transportation</a> will be working on the railroad tracks directly in front of the <a title="General Store" href="/index.php?cID=139">General Store</a>/Cafe at Porter Street.</p> <p>Detour signs will be posted, but you can also consult the Google map below for alternate routes as well.</p> <p>Our apologies for the inconvenience.</p> <div id="HTMLBlock2605" class="HTMLBlock"> <iframe marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" src="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msid=208589691015713431397.0004b022e1f7209007ca8&amp;msa=0&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;source=embed&amp;ll=42.297373,-85.592594&amp;spn=0.031743,0.107117&amp;z=13&amp;output=embed" frameborder="0" height="250" scrolling="no" width="625"></iframe><br><small>View <a href="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msid=208589691015713431397.0004b022e1f7209007ca8&amp;msa=0&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;source=embed&amp;ll=42.297373,-85.592594&amp;spn=0.031743,0.107117&amp;z=13" style="color:#0000FF;text-align:left">Bell's Eccentric Cafe and General Store</a> in a larger map</small></div> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-09-12T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News This One Goes to 11 Ale will be released in bottles and on draft http://bellsbeer.com/news/129-This%20One%20Goes%20to%2011%20Ale%20will%20be%20released%20in%20bottles%20and%20on%20draft <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/563b72a496eb8f3396a190afe4b5c6c0.png" alt="Bells_GoesTo11-01.png" height="350" width="353">Our Batch Series ended at 10,000, but <strong>This One Goes to 11 Ale</strong> is a bit louder.</p> <p>Brewed to commemorate our 11,000<sup>th</sup> batch, this Imperial Red uses hops from the Southern Hemisphere, but also features those from the Pacific Northwest, including a freshly named and newly released varietal.</p> <p><strong>The official description:</strong></p> <p><em><strong>This One Goes to 11 Ale</strong> opens with bright, juicy aromas such as tropical fruits &amp; ripe cherries, largely derived from massive kettle &amp; dry-hop additions of Southern Hemisphere hop varieties such as Galaxy, Motueka, and Summer. The citrus &amp; resinous pine notes of the Pacific Northwest hop family are also well represented, making their presence known through Simcoe, Citra, and the newly released Mosaic varietal, just to name a few. A wide range of specialty malts anchor the hops to this Imperial Red Ale, contrasting the assertive bitterness &amp; juicy aromatics with a robust, toasty depth of flavor. Fermented with Bell’s signature house ale yeast, <strong>This One Goes to 11 Ale</strong> finishes with a lingering warmth.</em></p> <p>Coming in at 11% ABV, this limited single batch release will be available in both bottles (six-packs) and on draft. It will begin shipping later this month.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-09-10T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Oracle tappings, Stout Bout, anniversary parties and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/128-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Oracle%20tappings%2C%20Stout%20Bout%2C%20anniversary%20parties%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; border: 0.5px solid black; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/93981e3be50536cde977108b008c78df.jpg" alt="SinkingShip.jpg" height="710" width="428">Below is a look at our events this week in Minnesota, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, North Dakota and Kentucky.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Sept. 10</h3> <p><strong>Oracle Tappings</strong><br> <em><strong>Minneapolis:</strong></em> <a href="http://www.stubandherbsbar.com/Stubs/">Stub &amp; Herbs</a> (11 a.m.), <a href="http://first-avenue.com/">First Avenue</a> (4 p.m.) and <a href="http://www.longfellowgrill.com/">Longfellow Grill</a> (5 p.m.).</p> <p><strong>Black Note, Oracle Tapping</strong><br> <a href="http://thebdp.com/">Blue Door Pu</a>b in St. Paul will pair these two rare beers with the “Return of the Drunken Blucy,” a burger made with Expedition Stout at 5 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Oracle, Hopsoulution Tapping</strong><br> Hop-Centric Night at Bulldog Lowerton in Saint Paul will feature these two rare beers along with Roundhouse IRA starting at 5 p.m.</p> <h3>Sept. 11</h3> <p><strong>Bell's at <a href="http://butcherandtheboar.com/">The Butcher</a></strong><br> Enjoy Black Note, Octoberfest and The Oracle in Minneapolis at 6 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Michigan Comes to Minnesota</strong><br> <a href="http://pizzaluce.com/locations/st-paul">Pizza Luce</a> in St. Paul will tap Roundhouse IRA and Wedding Ale at 6 p.m.</p> <h3>Sept. 12</h3> <p><strong>Stout Bout</strong><br> What’s a night of big stouts without Black Note? Join us at <a href="http://bryantlakebowl.com/">Bryant Lake Bowl</a> in Minneapolis at 6 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Oracle Tappings</strong><br> <em><strong>Minneapolis: </strong></em>Town Hall Tap (3 p.m.), <a href="http://www.gingerhop.com/">Ginger Hop</a> ( 4 p.m.) and <a href="http://www.primebarminneapolis.com/">Primebar </a>(5 p.m.)</p> <p><em><strong>St. Paul:</strong></em> <a href="http://www.amsterdambarandhall.com/">Amsterdam Bar &amp; Hall</a> (5 p.m.) and <a href="http://www.grovelandtap.com">Groveland </a>(5:30 p.m.)</p> <p><strong>Bell's Hop-Centric Night</strong><br> Two Hearted, Hopsoulution, The Oracle, Roundhouse IRA, Debs' Red and a cask of Pale Ale will be on tap at <a href="http://busterson28th.com/">Buster's</a> in Minneapolis at 6 p.m.</p> <h3>Sept. 13</h3> <p><strong>Multi-Tap Event</strong><br> Join us at the <a href="http://www.thebulldoguptown.com">Bulldog Uptown</a> in Minneapolis for a tapping of 21 different beers including The Oracle, Hopsoulution, Wedding Ale, Roundhouse, Debs' Red, Black Note, The Jazz Series and many others starting at 5 p.m. Get there before the kegs run out.</p> <h3>Sept. 14</h3> <p><strong>Oracle Tappings</strong><br> Join us at <a href="http://www.pignfiddle.com/">Pig-N-Fiddle</a> in Minneapolis (4 p.m. ) and at <a href="http://www.sweeneyssaloon.com">Sweney's</a> in St. Paul (6 p.m.).</p> <p><strong><a href="http://winethief.net/blog/the-ale-jail">Ale Jail </a>Anniversary Tasting</strong><br> Celebrate with Amber Ale, Kalamazoo Stout, Lager Beer, Pale Ale, Oarsman Ale, Oberon, Porter, Third Coast Beer and Two Hearted Ale from 4-7 p.m. in St Paul.</p> <h3>Sept. 15</h3> <p><a href="http://www.mncraftbrew.org/festivals/abr"><strong>Autumn Brew Review</strong></a><br> We will be pouring six beers including Hopsoulution, Wedding Ale and Debs' Red along with special tappings of Black Note and The Oracle in Minneapolis.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Sept. 11</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://www.yogis.com">Yogi's</a> Anniversary Party &amp; Bell's "O" Fest</strong><br> Join us in Bloomington and celebrate with Oberon, Oarsman, Oracle and Octoberfest.</p> <h3>Sept. 12</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night</strong><br> <a href="http://www.thesinkingship.com/">The Sinking Ship</a> in Indianapolis will tap Oberon, Two Hearted, Amber, Octoberfest and Hopsoulution at 7 p.m. &nbsp;</p> <h3>Sept. 15</h3> <p><strong>Hoosier Hops and Harvest</strong><br> We will be pouring our year-round portfolio along with Oberon at our a table plus a special keg of The Oracle at the Hoppapalooza trailer. See you at <a href="http://www.storyinn.com/">Story Inn</a> in Nashville.</p> <h2>North Dakota</h2> <h3>Sept. 11</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner</strong><br> <a href="http://www.hoteldonaldson.com/hodoLounge_eat.html">The Ho-Do Lounge</a> in Fargo will serve a five course meal paired with Wedding Ale, Roundhouse, Le Batteur, Octoberfest and Porter. Reservations are required.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Sept. 11</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner</strong><br> We are teaming up with <a href="http://www.theidealplace.com/">The Ideal Place</a> in Benton Harbor and Lambrecht's Liquor for a five course dinner featuring fresh seafood and a variety of Bell's beer including Roundhouse, Oarsman, Expedition Stout and more. Proceeds from this event will be donated to Camp 911, a southwest Michigan organization serving families of first responders.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Sept. 12</h3> <p><strong>Special Tappings</strong><br> Hopsoulution and Wedding Ale will be available at Chicago’s <a href="http://www.highdivechicago.com/">High Dive</a>.</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>Sept. 13</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night</strong><br> <a href="http://lexingtonbeerworks.com/home/">Lexington Beer Works</a> will tap The Oracle at 6 p.m.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for a Cask Night in Fargo, a Tap Takeover in Des Moines, dinner in Whitmore Lake, Michigan and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2">Take a look at our full calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-09-10T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Cheers to 27 years: Celebrate Bell's anniversary with us on Saturday http://bellsbeer.com/news/127-Cheers%20to%2027%20years%3A%20Celebrate%20Bell%27s%20anniversary%20with%20us%20on%20Saturday <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/3ee0993ebe3a9ddb1dd1542e2ac3af44.JPG" alt="Homebrew Expo 2011" height="317" width="476">KALAMAZOO – On Saturday (Sept. 8), we will celebrate our 27<sup>th</sup> anniversary. &nbsp;Below is what we have planned at the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Cafe</a>. Please note, tours of our original brewery in downtown Kalamazoo will not be offered that day. <a title="Tours" href="/visit/tours/">We will return to our normal tour hours on Sunday, however.</a></p> <h3>3<sup>rd</sup> Annual Bell’s Homebrew Expo and Competition Kick-off</h3> <p>Homebrewers can sign up for wort pick-up times beginning at 11 a.m. Wort will be distributed beginning at 1 p.m. Please arrive early to ensure your spot as supplies will be limited. Homebrewers should also plan on bringing a sanitized vessel as well. For more information on the competition itself, including rules, <a href="http://bit.ly/NK7PTQ">take a look at our original blog post.</a></p> <p>We also put together <a href="http://bellshomebrew.tumblr.com/">a Q&amp;A post on our Homebrewing Blog</a>.</p> <p>Vendors for this year’s Expo include <a href="http://www.whitelabs.com/">White Labs</a>, <a href="http://www.blichmannengineering.com/">Blichmann Engineering</a>,<a href="http://www.brewhauler.com/"> Brew Hauler</a>, <a href="http://coldbreakbrewing.com/Home_Page.html">Coldbreak Brewing</a>, Third Coast Products, <a href="http://www.stirstarters.com/">Stir Starters</a>, <a href="http://www.homebrewersassociation.org/">American Homebrewers Association</a>, <a href="http://www.klob.org/">Kalamazoo Libation Organization of Brewers (KLOB)</a> and Fetzer Farms.</p> <h3>6<sup>th</sup> Annual Hot Dog Eating Contest</h3> <p>How many can you eat in 10 minutes? Competition starts at 4 p.m. It's free to enter and includes a t-shirt. Call 269-250-8485 or email <a href="mailto:jason@bellsbeer.com">jason@bellsbeer.com</a> to add your name to the list.</p> <h3>Beer specials, entertainment</h3> <p>Anyone wearing Bell’s apparel will receive $1 off their pint until 9 p.m.</p> <p><a href="http://thegorounds.bandcamp.com/">The Go Rounds</a> will close out this year's Beer Garden season at 9:30 p.m. Cover is $8.</p> <p>Questions? <a title="Contact" href="/contact/">Send us an email.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-09-04T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Tap takeovers, Oracle tappings, beer dinners and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/126-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Tap%20takeovers%2C%20Oracle%20tappings%2C%20beer%20dinners%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right;" src="/files/cache/6a8087169caa4647199b893341c327c0.jpg" alt="BellsOctoberfestFrntLabel.jpg" height="295" width="303">Below is a look at Bell’s beer events this week in Michigan, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Washington DC.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Sept. 5</h3> <p><strong>Tap Explosion</strong><br><a href="http://upfrontandcompany.com">Upfront &amp; Company</a> in Marquette will feature Amber Ale, Two Hearted, Octoberfest and Wedding Ale starting at 5 p.m. Black Note will also be tapped at 7 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Tap Takeover</strong><br><a href="http://www.grandtrunkpub.com/">Foran's Grand Trunk Pub</a> in Detroit will feature six different beers starting at 5 p.m. There will also be a special tapping of The Oracle as well.</p> <h3>Sept. 7</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tap Event</strong><br><a href="http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/cranbrook/">Whole Foods Cranbrook</a> in Ann Arbor will tap Hopsoulution, Octoberfest and other Bell’s favorites at 5 p.m. Special cheese pairings will also be available.</p> <h3>Sept. 8</h3> <p><strong>Bell's anniversary</strong><br>Join us as we celebrate our 27<sup>th</sup> anniversary this weekend at the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Café</a>. For more details, <a title="Blog" href="/news/">go here.</a></p> <p><strong>5th Annual Art on Tap (beer tasting)</strong><br>Join us at Flint Institute of Art for multiple Michigan beers, delicious food and live entertainment. We will be pouring Two Hearted, Porter, Amber, oarsman and Pale Ale. <a href="http://www.flintarts.org/events/beer_tasting.html">Go here for more information</a>.</p> <h2>Pennsylvania</h2> <h3>Sept. 5</h3> <p>Bell's Beer Dinner<br><a href="http://www.bigelowgrille.com">Bigelow Grille</a> in Pittsburgh will present a four course dinner at 6 p.m. Reservations are required. Call 412-281-5013 for more information.</p> <h3>Sept. 7</h3> <p><strong>Oracle Tapping</strong><br>Our west coast style DIPA will be tapped at <a href="http://www.bluedustpgh.com/">Blue Dust</a> in Homestead at 7 p.m. Octoberfest and Oberon will also make an appearance.</p> <h3>Sept. 8</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://www.constructionjunction.org/pages/bigpour">Steel City Big Pour</a></strong><br> Stop by the Bell’s tent at Construction Junction in Pittsburgh for Oberon, Two Hearted, Wedding Ale and the very rare Black Note from 12-3 p.m. and again from 5-8 p.m. (Please note, this event is sold out.)</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Sept. 5</h3> <p><strong>Farm Dinner</strong><br>Join us at <a href="http://www.chicagobotanic.org/">Chicago Botanic Gardens</a> in Glencoe for a special dinner. Call 847-835-5440 for more information.</p> <h3>Sept. 8</h3> <p><a href="http://www.screwcitybeerfest.com/"><strong>Screw City Brewfest</strong></a><br>We’ll be pouring Two Hearted, Amber, Oberon, Octoberfest and Porter in downtown Rockford from 1-6 p.m.</p> <p><a href="http://www.chucksfest.com/"><strong>Chuck's Fest</strong></a><br>Sample Amber, Oberon, Two Hearted, Kalamazoo Stout and Octoberfest at Toyota Park in Bridgeview.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Sept. 6</h3> <p><strong>Oracle Tapping</strong><br><a href="http://beersellar.net/">The Beer Sellar</a> in Indianapolis will tap The Oracle at 5 p.m. Two Hearted, Amber, Oberon and other Bell’s favorites will be available as well.</p> <h3>Sept. 7</h3> <p><strong>Get Your “O” Face On Party</strong><br> The Pub in Granger will celebrate with Oberon, Oracle and Octoberfest at 5 p.m.</p> <h3>Sept. 8</h3> <p><strong>Zoo Brew</strong><br><a href="http://potawatomizoo.org/Zoo_Brew.asp">The Potawatomi Zoo</a> in South Bend will host this fourth annual event from 7-10 p.m. Proceeds will benefit wildlife conservation, new naturalistic exhibits and education programs. Ticket includes a commemorative sampling mug and unlimited beer sampling.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Sept. 9</h3> <p><strong>Rock For Democracy</strong><br>Bell’s is the official beer sponsor for this event in Minneapolis. We will be pouring Two Hearted, Oberon, Oarsman, Lager of The Lakes and Amber Ale at <a href="http://bryantlakebowl.com/">Bryant Lake Bowl</a>. *Note: The date for this event was previoously Sept. 8.</p> <h2>Wisconsin</h2> <h3>Sept. 8</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover</strong><br><a href="http://www.8thstalehaus.com/index.html">8th Street Ale House</a> in Sheboygan will hand over control of their taps to us starting at 6 p.m. Call 920-208-7540 for more information.</p> <h2>Washington DC</h2> <h3>Sept. 9</h3> <p><strong>Kick-off Celebration</strong><br>Stop by the <a href="http://www.capitolloungedc.com/">Capitol Lounge</a> for the start of the Detroit Lions' season! We will be tapping the delicious Hopsoulution double IPA and giving away great Bell's swag. The party starts at 11:30 a.m.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>We have multiple Oracle tappings coming up in Minnesota, beer dinners and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2">Check out our full calendar here</a>.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-09-04T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Wedding Ale, Oracle, Black Note, Roundhouse tappings and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/125-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Wedding%20Ale%2C%20Oracle%2C%20Black%20Note%2C%20Roundhouse%20tappings%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/1812/8386/6419/Oracle.small.crush.png" alt="BellTheOracleLabelFrnt.jpg" width="354" height="348">Below is a look at our events this week in Indiana, North Carolina, Michigan and Kentucky.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>August 27</h3> <p><strong>Oracle Tapping #1</strong><br> <a href="http://www.clubsodafortwayne.com/">Club Soda</a> in Fort Wayne will be pouring Oberon and Two Hearted in addition to The Oracle.</p> <h3>August 29</h3> <p><strong>Oracle Tapping #2</strong><br> <a href="http://dickyswildhare.com/">Dicky’s Wild Hare</a> in Fort Wayne will tap their keg at 6 p.m.</p> <h3>August 30</h3> <p><strong>Oracle Tapping #3</strong><br> <a href="http://www.chathamtap.com">Chatham Tap</a> in Indianapolis will tap The Oracle along with Octoberfest, Oberon and Two Hearted Ale starting at 7 p.m.</p> <h3>August 31</h3> <p><strong>Oracle Tapping #4</strong><br> Bleacher’s Sports Bar &amp; Grill in Mishawaka will feature Bell’s Porter and Two Hearted along with The Oracle at 6 p.m.</p> <h3>September 1</h3> <p><strong>Lake of Four Seasons Brewfest</strong><br> Stop by our table at this year’s charity event near Buddy &amp; Pal’s in Winfield that will feature Oberon, Amber, Porter and Two Hearted.</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>August 29</h3> <p><strong>Bell's at Duckworth's </strong><br> We’ll be in Charlotte with rare beers like Black Note, The Oracle, Le Batteur, Wedding Ale and Roundhouse IRA along with Amber, Pale Ale and Lager starting at 6:30 p.m. Come on out and say hello.</p> <h3>August 31</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tasting</strong><br> Enjoy the last few days of summer with us and the great folks at <a href="http://samsquikshop.com/">Sam's Quik Shop</a> in Durham for a tasting of Amber Ale, Black Note, Le Batteur Ale, Oberon, The Oracle DIPA and Roundhouse IRA starting at 6:30 p.m.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>August 29</h3> <p><strong>Roundhouse Tapping</strong><br> <a href="http://www.conoroneills.com/annarbor/">Conor O'Neil's</a> in Ann Arbor will welcome students back to campus with this special IRA along with some other Bell’s favorites starting at 6:30 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Bucket of Bell’s</strong><br> One more chance to celebrate summer with us at <a href="http://www.millenniumrestaurants.com/loft/">The Wine Loft </a>in Kalamazoo (apologies for last week’s typo). See you at 7 p.m.</p> <h3>August 30</h3> <p><strong>Football, Baseball, and Bell's - Oh, MY!</strong><br> <a href="http://www.docssportretreat.com/">Doc's Sports Retreat </a>in Livonia will pair some Detroit football and baseball with Bell’s beer. Get there early for a chance to win prizes.</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>August 31</h3> <p><strong>Lexington Fest of Ales </strong><br> We'll be pouring Amber, Oberon, Two Hearted and Wedding Ale from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. in downtown Lexington. <a href="http://www.lexingtonfestofales.com">Go here for more information.</a></p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us at Upfront &amp; Company in Marquette, the Rock for Democracy in Minneapolis, Bigelow Grill in Pittsburgh and elsewhere. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2">Take a look at our full calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-08-27T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Oracle tappings, a Fish Fry, festivals and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/124-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Oracle%20tappings%2C%20a%20Fish%20Fry%2C%20festivals%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/d402805f4af1ade38024775a78605a5e.jpg" alt="412491_430114627027250_1168036124_o.jpg" height="515" width="450">Below is a look at Bell’s events this week in Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, Florida and Pennsylvania.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>August 20</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s Beer Tasting</strong><br> Amber, Third Coast and Oarsman will be available at Big Ten Store location in East Lansing tonight as part of <a href="http://LansingBeerWeek.com/">Lansing Beer Week</a>.</p> <h3>August 22</h3> <p><strong>Buckets of Bell's</strong><br> <a href="http://www.millenniumrestaurants.com/loft/">The Wine Loft</a> in Kalamazoo will host their final Mixer on the Mall after party at 7 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Charity Beer Tasting</strong><br> The proceeds for this event at <a href="http://www.uptowngrille.com/">Uptown Grille</a> in Commerce Township will go to <a href="http://www.shareasmile.org/">Share A Smile</a>, a Michigan based charity. Ticket includes beer samples from 10 Michigan breweries (we will be pouring The Oracle, Oberon, Two Hearted and Amber), a beer glass and great food from Uptown Grille starting at 6 p.m.</p> <h3>August 23</h3> <p><strong>Tap Explosion</strong><br><a href="http://treetops.com/">Treetops Resort</a> in Gaylord will feature Oberon, Oarsman, Smoked Vienna Lager and Black Note from 6-9 p.m.</p> <h3>August 25</h3> <p><a href="http://www.porterhouseproductions.com/"><strong>4<sup>th</sup> Annual Traverse City Summer Microbrew &amp; Music Festival</strong></a><br> Join us at <a href="http://www.thevillagetc.com">The Village at Grand Traverse Commons</a> for live music, great beer and local food from 4-10 p.m.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>August 21</h3> <p><strong>Trivia Night</strong><br> <a href="http://Sahms.com">Sahm's Place</a> in Indianapolis will have a great selection of Bell’s beers on tap plus trivia and prizes.</p> <h3>August 24</h3> <p><strong>Multi-tap Event</strong><br> <a href="http://www.beergeekspub.com/">Beer Geeks</a> in Highland will feature 8 Bell’s beers including Roundhouse IRA, Le Batteur, Wedding Ale, Oracle and Black Note starting at 7 p.m.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>August 25</h3> <p><a href="http://alefest.com/dayton.htm"><strong>AleFest Dayton</strong></a><br> We will be pouring Oberon, Amber and Two Hearted from 2-5 p.m.</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>August 25</h3> <p><a href="http://www.louisvillezoo.org/brew"><strong>Brew at The Zoo</strong></a><br> Spend the evening touring The Louisville Zoo while sampling some great beer including Amber, Oberon and Two Hearted.</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>August 25</h3> <p><strong>Shroomstock </strong><br> Ten different breweries, including Bell’s, will be represented from 5 p.m. - midnight at <a href="http://www.mellowmushroom.com/orlando/#/store/index/orlando">Mellow Mushroom</a> in Orlando.</p> <h2>Pennsylvania</h2> <h3>August 25</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Fish Fry</strong><br> <a href="http://www.jgdomestic.com/">JG Domestic</a> in Philadelphia will host a dinner featuring house-made dried pork sausage, Lake Michigan perch, blueberry pie with lemon meringue ice cream and more – not to mention Oberon, The Oracle DIPA, Two Hearted and others as well. Call 215-985-2106 for more information.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for a Roundhouse tapping in Ann Arbor, Lexington Fest of Ales and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2">Check out our full calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-08-20T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Details, deadline for Bell's 3rd Annual Homebrew Competition now available http://bellsbeer.com/news/123-Details%2C%20deadline%20for%20Bell%27s%203rd%20Annual%20Homebrew%20Competition%20now%20available <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/c33eb770c393882233e89d2b0746e02a.jpg" alt="IMG_5928.jpg" height="274" width="412"></p> <p><strong>UPDATE:</strong> <a href="http://bellshomebrew.tumblr.com/">Check out the Frequently Asked Questions and Answers post about the competition on our Homebrewing Blog.</a></p> <p>The date for the 3<sup>rd</sup> Annual Bell’s Homebrew Competition Kick-Off is set for Sept. 8 at the Eccentric Cafe.</p> <p>The winner will get the chance to brew their beer at our original (<em>and still brewing</em>) brewery in downtown Kalamazoo to be served on tap at the Café.</p> <p>Back in July,<a href="http://bellsbeer.com/blog/114-A_Bit_of_Heat_to_debut_July_21_at_Bell_s_Eccentric_Cafe"> we tapped A Bit of Heat</a>, the winning entry that was submitted for last year’s competition by Geoff Groff. That beer was brewed with paradise seeds, rose hips and habaneros. Two years ago, Oscar’s Folly, a collaborative IPA from Jarrett Cupp, Bailey Cupp and Paul Gentz took first prize.</p> <p>The only restriction or style guideline for this competition is that you use our wort, which we provide for free.</p> <p>Sign-up times for wort pickup will begin at 11 a.m. Wort will be distributed starting at 1 p.m. Homebrewers should bring a sanitized vessel with them to transport their wort home. Make sure to get there early, as supplies will be limited.</p> <p>This event also coincides with our 27<sup>th</sup> Anniversary Celebration, Homebrew Expo and <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/eccentric-cafe/events-calendar/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2278">6<sup>th</sup> Annual Hot Dog Eating Contest</a> - more details to come on those soon.</p> <p>Deadline to enter is 9 p.m. Oct. 26.</p> <p>Cheers and good luck!</p> <p><a title="HomebrewEntryInfo2012.pdf" href="/index.php/download_file/view/948/63/">Download the complete rules and details here.</a></p> <p>Still have questions? <a href="mailto:dcurtis@bellsbeer.com">Send us an email.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-08-17T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's Octoberfest will be draft only this year, will start shipping soon http://bellsbeer.com/news/122-Bell%27s%20Octoberfest%20will%20be%20draft%20only%20this%20year%2C%20will%20start%20shipping%20soon <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/be41328c58956b28416975fbf793873e.png" alt="Bells_Octoberfest_Label.tif.png" height="238" width="244">COMSTOCK – Bell’s Octoberfest Beer will only be available on draft for 2012.</p> <p>Kegs are scheduled to start shipping this week (August 13).</p> <p>The absence of bottles this year relates to two inflexible, yet very important factors – the fermentation process required to produce this lager style seasonal, but also the construction and transition into our new 200-barrel brewhouse in Comstock, Michigan.</p> <p>Octoberfest spends a full six weeks maturing in our fermentation vessels compared to just a few weeks for many of our other brands.</p> <p>This combined with a year-long construction process and a longer than anticipated transition into our new brewhouse, meant that we were unable to devote the necessary fermentation space required to meet the demand for this beer in both six-packs and on draft.</p> <p>Kegs were chosen so that we could share as much of this beer with as many of our fans as possible.</p> <p>We apologize and regret any inconvenience this decision may cause our fans.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-08-14T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Oracle, Hopsoulution tappings, Burgers & Brews and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/121-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Oracle%2C%20Hopsoulution%20tappings%2C%20Burgers%20%26%20Brews%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/1812/8386/6419/Oracle.small.crush.png" alt="BellTheOracleLabelFrnt.jpg" height="348" width="354">Here is a look at Bell’s beer events this week in Michigan, Indiana, Florida, Kentucky, Minnesota and Washington DC.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>August 14</h3> <p><strong>Fish Boil: 2012 Ensign National Championship Regatta</strong><br> <a href="http://www.lakesuperiortheatre.com">Lake Superior Theatre</a> in Marquette will host this dinner and feature Bell’s beer as well. Call 906-227-7625 for more information.</p> <h3>August 15</h3> <p><strong>Mixer on the Mall After Party</strong><br> Only two more chances to sample buckets of Bell’s beers at <a href="http://www.millenniumrestaurants.com/loft/">The Wine Loft </a>in Kalamazoo. See you at 7 p.m.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>August 15</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Hopped Up Night</strong><br> <a href="http://800degrees.net/800threefires/">800 Degrees Three Fires</a> will host a special tapping of Hopsoulution, The Oracle and Two Hearted starting at 5 p.m.</p> <h3>August 16</h3> <p><strong>Oracle Tapping</strong><br> <a href="http://www.maxsplace.info/">Max's Pizza</a> in Bloomington will tap a keg of this seasonal DIPA at 6 p.m.</p> <h3>August 17</h3> <p><strong>Oracle Tapping</strong><br> Sample five awesome Bell's beers on draft in addition to Oracle (which will be tapped at 5 p.m.) at <a href="http://www.gersthaus.com/">Gerst Haus</a> in Evansville before the SWIRCA Suds Wine and Beer Festival on Saturday.</p> <h3>August 18</h3> <p><a href="http://www.evansvilleevents.com/home/2012/06/01/swirca-mores-annual-suds-wine-spirits-fest/"><strong>Suds, Wines, &amp; Spirits Fest: The Ivy Room, Evansville</strong></a><br> Admission includes beverage and food samples, a commemorative sampling glass and live entertainment. Call 812-492-7407 for more information.</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>August 16</h3> <p><a href="http://www.abcfws.com/"><strong>ABC Liquor Tasting</strong></a><br> Join us in Lake Mary from 6-8 p.m. for Amber, Oberon and Two Hearted.</p> <h3>August 18</h3> <p><a href="http://www.mortonsmarket.com/"><strong>Celebration of Brewing: Morton's Gourmet Market </strong></a><br> This event in Sarasota will feature a variety of beers from around the country and the world including Bell's. We will be pouring Amber, Oberon and Two Hearted from 4-7 p.m.</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>August 16</h3> <p><strong>Burgers and Brews</strong><br> <a href="http://www.thepartysource.com">The Party Source</a> in Bellevue will feature Amber Ale, Lager, Oarsman Ale, Oberon and Two Hearted Ale plus great burgers from 5-8 p.m.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>August 18</h3> <p><a href="http://www.montilionsbrewfest.com/"><strong>Monticello Lions Brewfest</strong></a><br> We will be pouring Amber, Two Hearted, Kalamazoo Stout, Oberon, Oarsman, and Porter from 3-7 p.m.</p> <h2>Washington DC</h2> <h3>August 18</h3> <p><a href="http://churchkeydc.com/"><strong>ChurckKey Multi-tap Event</strong></a><br> Cap off DC Beer Week with La Batteur, Wedding Ale, Roundhouse, Two Hearted Ale, Amber Ale, Pale Ale, Kalamazoo Stout, Oarsmen Ale and Lager of the Lakes starting at noon.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for Trivia Night in Indianapolis, a Charity Beer Tasting in Commerce Township (Michigan), the Traverse City Music &amp; Microbrew Festival and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look at our full calendar here</a>.<br> <br></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-08-14T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Great Taste, Twin Cities Beer Festival, a Florida tasting & more http://bellsbeer.com/news/120-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Great%20Taste%2C%20Twin%20Cities%20Beer%20Festival%2C%20a%20Florida%20tasting%20%26%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/d087f3ade0cac3fe1d12c159b4a20025.jpg" alt="MaduroBlog.jpg" height="436" width="259">A look at our beer events this week in Michigan, Florida, Wisconsin and Minnesota.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>August 8</h3> <p><strong>Buckets of Bell's: Mixer on the Mall After-Party </strong><br> Only a few more chances to attend this weekly event at <a href="http://www.millenniumrestaurants.com/loft/">The Wine Loft</a> in Kalamazoo. See you at 7 p.m.</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>August 9</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s Tasting</strong><br> Join us at <a href="http://www.abcfws.com/">ABC Liquor</a> on N. Dale Mabry Blvd. in Tampa for samples of Amber, Oberon and Two Hearted from 6-8 p.m.</p> <h2>Wisconsin</h2> <h3>August 10</h3> <p><strong>Pre-Great Taste Tap Takeover</strong><br> <a href="http://www.madurocigarbar.com/">Maduro Cigar Bar </a>in Madison will have 18 Bell’s beers on tap, plus a firkin starting at noon – a great way to celebrate this year’s Great Taste of the Midwest whether you are going to the festival or not.</p> <h3>August 11</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://www.mhtg.org">Great Taste of the Midwest</a></strong><br> We will be pouring 18 different beers plus two firkins. For more, check out <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/blog/119-Take_a_look__Great_Taste_of_the_Midwest__Maduro_tap_takeover_beer_lists">our Great Taste blog post from last week</a>.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>August 11</h3> <p><a href="http://twincitiesbeerfest.com">Twin Cities Beer Festival</a><br> Join us in Bloomington for a variety of beers including Amber Ale, Kalamazoo Stout, Oberon, Two Hearted and more from 3-7 p.m.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for the Ore to Shore After Party in Marquette, a Michigan tap takeover in Mokena, an Oracle tapping in Bloomington and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look at our full calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-08-06T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Take a look: Great Taste of the Midwest, Maduro tap takeover beer lists http://bellsbeer.com/news/119-Take%20a%20look%3A%20Great%20Taste%20of%20the%20Midwest%2C%20Maduro%20tap%20takeover%20beer%20lists <p><img style="float: right; border: 0.5px solid black; margin: 10px;" src="/files/8713/4374/9199/188099_151866934895788_946462993_n.jpg" alt="188099_151866934895788_946462993_n.jpg" height="196" width="180">We'll start celebrating this year's <a href="http://www.mhtg.org/great-taste-of-the-midwest/">Great Taste of the Midwest</a> a day early at <a href="http://www.madurocigarbar.com/" target="_blank">Maduro </a>with an 18-tap takeover. There will also be a firkin of Pale Ale.</p> <p>Here is our tap list for Maduro:</p> <ul> <li>Wedding Ale</li> <li>Round House</li> <li>Black Note</li> <li>Smoked Vienna Lager</li> <li>Harvest Ale</li> <li>Le Batteur</li> <li>Two Hearted</li> <li>Amber</li> <li> Oberon</li> <li>Oarsman</li> <li>Pale Ale</li> <li>Oracle</li> <li>Hopsoulution</li> <li>Bourbon Barrel Aged Amber</li> <li>Bourbon Barrel Aged Best Brown</li> <li>Third Coast Old Ale</li> <li>Cherry Stout</li> <li>Raspberry Wild One</li> </ul> <p><strong>Here is what we will have at the festival on August 11:</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong></strong>Wedding Ale</li> <li>Round House</li> <li>Black Note</li> <li>Smoked Vienna Lager</li> <li>Harvest Ale</li> <li>Le Batteur</li> <li>Two Hearted</li> <li>Amber</li> <li>Oberon</li> <li>Oarsman</li> <li>Pale Ale</li> <li>Oracle</li> <li>Hopsoulution</li> <li>Bourbon Barrel Aged Amber Ale</li> <li>Bourbon Barrel Aged Best Brown</li> <li> Raspberry Wild One</li> <li>Third Coast Old Ale (2011)</li> <li>Cherry Stout (2011)</li> <li>Two Hearted firkin</li> <li>Pale Ale firkin</li> </ul> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-07-31T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Wedding Ale, Third Coast firkin, WaZoo and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/118-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Wedding%20Ale%2C%20Third%20Coast%20firkin%2C%20WaZoo%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/956de52573dea6f0cb39355c52e6c401.jpg" alt="Label_WeddingAle_Wedding_Ale.jpg" height="388" width="388">Here is a look at Bell’s beer events this week in Michigan, Minnesota, Florida, Indiana and Illinois.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>August 1</h3> <p><strong>Buckets of Bell's - Mixer on the Mall After Party</strong><br> Finish off the evening by relaxing on the patio at <a href="http://www.millenniumrestaurants.com/loft/">The Wine Loft</a> in Kalamazoo with a bucket of Bell's beer starting at 7 p.m. We’ll be here every Wednesday through August 22.</p> <h3>August 4</h3> <p><strong>Tawas Uncork'd</strong><br> This 5th annual event will feature food, wine and beer from all over Michigan. We will be pouring Oarsman, Two Hearted, Kalamazoo Stout, Amber and Oberon from noon to 6 p.m.</p> <h2>Miinesota</h2> <h3>August 2</h3> <p><strong>Cask Ale Night</strong><br> <a href="http://bouldertaphouse.com/">Boulder Tap House </a>in St. Cloud will tap a rare firkin of Third Coast Beer at 6 p.m.</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>August 4</h3> <p><strong>Wazoo</strong><br> Named a Top 10 Beer Festival in America by USA Today, WaZoo will feature zoo-wide samplings of more than 250 beers and beverages at Lowry Park Zoo in Tampa. We will be pouring Amber Ale, Kalamazoo Stout, Oberon and Two Hearted Ale. <a href="http://www.lowryparkzoo.com/wazoo/">More information about the festival and tickets can be found online.</a></p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>August 4</h3> <p><strong>Brew Haven Craft Beer Festival</strong><br> We will be pouring Java Stout, Oberon, Two Hearted and Wedding Ale at this premiere craft beer event at Trion Tavern in New Haven. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.triontavern.com">www.triontavern.com</a>.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>August 4</h3> <p><a href="http://wheatonalefest.com/wheaton-ale-fest.html"><strong>Wheaton Ale Fest</strong></a><br> Sample more than 125 different styles of beer at Memorial Park in Wheaton. We'll be pouring Amber, Oarsman, Oberon and Two Hearted from noon to 4 p.m.<br> <br> <br></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-07-30T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News 15th Annual Michigan Brewers Guild Summer Beer Festival lineup, pre-festival events http://bellsbeer.com/news/117-15th%20Annual%20Michigan%20Brewers%20Guild%20Summer%20Beer%20Festival%20lineup%2C%20pre-festival%20events <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/a522ceeb223b297f8bdd83b8e0f436fd.png" alt="MBG_15thAnniv_Logo.png" height="333" width="407">We have plenty of beer lined up for this year’s <a href="http://www.michiganbrewersguild.org/">Michigan Summer Beer Festival</a> including two events leading up to the annual festival in Ypsilanti. Both start at 6 p.m. Here are the details:</p> <p><strong>July 25:</strong> A tap takeover at <a href="http://fraserspubaa.com/">Fraser’s Pub</a> in Ann Arbor&nbsp; – We will be celebrating two anniversaries – Fraser’s 50<sup>th</sup> and the Michigan Brewers Guild’s 15<sup>th</sup> with a firkin of Third Coast Beer, Black Note (7:30 p.m.) Amber, Best Brown, Cherry Stout, Pale Ale, Oberon, Third Coast Beer, Two Hearted (firkin and draft) and Wedding Ale.</p> <p><strong>July 26:</strong> Our second tap takeover this week will be at <a href="http://redrockypsi.com/">Red Rock Downtown BBQ</a> in Ypsilanti – Wedding Ale (6:30 p.m.), Black Note (7:30 p.m.), a Third Coast Beer Firkin, Oberon, Two Hearted, Amber, Best Brown, Pale Ale, Cherry Stout, Oarsman, Porter and Kalamazoo Stout</p> <p><strong>As for the festival itself, on July 27 and 28, here is our tap list (special tapping times to come):</strong></p> <ul> <li>Oberon</li> <li>Two Hearted</li> <li>Oarsman</li> <li>Amber</li> <li>Lager of the Lakes</li> <li>Best Brown</li> <li>Le Batteur Biere de Garde</li> <li>Third Coast Beer</li> <li>Pale Ale</li> <li>Black Note</li> <li>Wedding Ale</li> <li>Hopsoulution</li> <li>Roundhouse</li> <li>Michigan Brewers Guild 15th Anniversary Ale</li> </ul> <p>Cheers!</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-07-23T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Black Note, blues festivals, tap takeovers and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/116-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Black%20Note%2C%20blues%20festivals%2C%20tap%20takeovers%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/77c6e897c3fd4d49a728073749e0d0ff.jpg" alt="Sagebrush_menu-01.jpg" height="657" width="509">A look at Bell’s beer events this week in Indiana, Virginia, Michigan, North Carolina, Kentucky, North Dakota, Ohio and Illinois.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>July 25</h3> <p><strong>Tap Event</strong><br> 6 Bell's beers will be featured on draft including Black Note, Oberon, Two Hearted and more at <a href="http://www.fattomato.net/">Fat Tomato</a> in Elkhart.</p> <h2>Virginia</h2> <h3>July 25</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Brewery Night</strong><br> <a href="http://www.jackbrownsjoint.com/home.html">Jack Brown's Beer and Burger Joint</a> in Harrisonburg will host a Pint Nite featuring Black Note, Lager Beer, Pale Ale, Oarsman Ale, Oberon, Two Hearted Ale and burgers starting at 5 p.m.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>July 23-29</h3> <p><strong>Kalamazoo Restaurant Week</strong><br> Celebrate Kalamazoo Restaurant Week at <a href="http://www.kalamazoobeerexchange.com/">The Beer Exchange</a> with a three course menu paired with Bell's beers for only $25.</p> <p><strong>ON THE MENU:</strong> First course - Amber Ale paired with fresh gazpacho, goat cheese croutons and vodka; Second course - Two Hearted paired with red wine and horseradish flank steak, bleu cheese mashed potatoes and bacon collards; Third course - Oarsman Ale paired with strawberry gelato in a dark chocolate tart shell with candied sugar.</p> <h3>July 24</h3> <p><strong>Multi-tap Event</strong><br> <a href="http://mysagebrushcantina.com/">SageBrush Cantina</a> in Lake Orion will feature Third Coast Beer, Oberon, Two Hearted Ale, a Two Hearted firkin, Amber, Pale, Lager, Cherry Stout, Special Double Cream Stout, Wedding Ale (6:30 p.m. tapping) and Black Note (8 p.m. tapping).</p> <h3>July 25</h3> <p><strong>Mixer on the Mall After Party</strong><br> Buckets of Amber Ale, Lager Beer, Oarsman Ale, Oberon, Porter, Third Coast Beer and Two Hearted Ale will be featured again this week at <a href="http://www.millenniumrestaurants.com/loft/">The Wine Loft</a> in downtown Kalamazoo starting at 7 p.m. For more information on this year's Mixer on the Mall season, <a href="http://bit.ly/L4XvGu">go here</a>.</p> <p><strong>Tap Takeover</strong><br> Join us as we celebrate 50 years of <a href="http://fraserspubaa.com/">Fraser's Pub</a> and 15 years of the Michigan Brewer's Guild. We will tap a firkin of Third Coast Beer at 6 p.m. and Black Note at 7:30 p.m. Also on tap will be Amber Ale, Best Brown Ale, Cherry Stout, Pale Ale, Oberon, Third Coast Beer, Two Hearted Ale (firkin and draft) and Wedding Ale starting at 6 p.m.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: line-through;"><strong>Bell's Night on the Big Deck</strong></span><br><span style="text-decoration: line-through;"> Oberon and Two Hearted will be flowing at <a href="http://www.booneslli.com/">Boone's Long Lake Inn</a> in Traverse City</span>. CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER.</p> <h3>July 26</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover</strong><br> We're celebrating the Summer Beer Festival and the Michigan Brewer's Guild 15th Anniversary a little early at <a href="http://redrockypsi.com/">Red Rock BBQ</a> in Ypsilanti with some amazing food and phenomenal beer. &nbsp;We will tap a Third Coast Beer firkin at 6 p.m. and Black Note at 7:30 p.m. Don't miss out on any of our other tasty offerings like Cherry Stout and Porter which pair wonderfully with BBQ. Wedding Ale will also be available at this event.</p> <h3>July 27-28</h3> <p><strong>15th Annual Michigan Summer Beer Festival</strong><br> Here is what we will be tapping in Ypsilanti this year:</p> <ul> <li>Oberon</li> <li>Two Hearted</li> <li>Oarsman</li> <li>Amber</li> <li>Lager of the Lakes</li> <li>Best Brown</li> <li>Le Batteur Biere de Garde</li> <li>Third Coast Beer</li> <li>Pale Ale</li> <li>Black Note</li> <li>Wedding Ale</li> <li>Hopsoulution</li> <li>Roundhouse</li> <li>Michigan Brewers Guild 15th Anniversary Ale</li> </ul> <ul> </ul> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>July 24</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tasting: Peabody's Wine and Beer, Boone</strong><br> <a href="http://www.peabodyswineandbeer.com/">Peabody's Wine and Beer</a> will host a tasting in Boone at 5 p.m. Come out and enjoy the cool mountain air and learn about some Bell's beers including Amber Ale, Kalamazoo Stout, Lager Beer, Pale Ale, Oarsman Ale, Oberon and Two Hearted.</p> <h3>July 26</h3> <p><strong>Two Hearted Cask Tasting</strong><br> Bell's and <a href="http://www.saltycaper.com/">The Salty Caper</a> in Mooresville are teaming up for a Two Hearted cask tasting. Bell's glassware will also be available, while supplies last.</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>July 26</h3> <p><strong>Two Hearted Pint Night</strong><br> Enjoy a pint of Bell's Two Hearted and keep the logo'd glass at <a href="http://www.candbpublichouse.com">Cock and Bull Public House</a> in Covington starting at 5 p.m.</p> <h2>North Dakota</h2> <h3>July 26</h3> <p><strong>Cask Ale Night</strong><br> We will tap a special cask of Third Coast Beer at <a href="http://www.hoteldonaldson.com/hodoLounge_eat.html">The Ho-Do Lounge</a> in Fargo at 5 p.m.</p> <h3>July 27-28</h3> <p><strong>Fargo Blues Festival</strong><br> We are sponsoring this year's <a href="http://www.fargobluesfest.com/">Fargo Blues Festival</a> at Newman Field and pouring Two Hearted, Oberon and Amber Ale. There will also be sample stations as well.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>July 28</h3> <p><a href="http://www.bluesnbrews.org"><strong>Lock 3 Blues &amp; Brews Festival</strong></a><br> Come out and enjoy some blues and brews in downtown Akron and be sure to stop by the Bell's booth. We'll be pouring Amber, Oarsman, Oberon and Two Hearted from noon to 6 p.m.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>July 26</h3> <p><strong>Hot dog and beer tasting</strong><br><a href="http://www.sheffieldschicago.com/">Sheffield's</a> in Chicago will offer a special menu pairing mini-hot dogs with Bell's beer atarting at 7 p.m. The lineup is below and each costs $12. Sorry, but no mix and match.</p> <p><strong>Group A: </strong>Guacamole Dog - Chipotle Aioli, guacamole, pico de gallo, and queso fresco paired with Third Coast Ale &amp; Banh MI Dog - Sriracha Aioli, Carrots, Cucumbers, and Cilantro paired with Bell's Pale Ale.</p> <p><strong>Group B: </strong>Greek Dog - Tzatziki sauce, cucumbers, and olives paired with Bell's Porter &amp; Chicago Dog - Classic Chicago dog with pickle, celery salt, yellow mustard, sport peppers, neon relish, diced onions, and tomatoes paired with Bell's Amber.<br> <br><strong>Group C: </strong>BBQ Dog - Sheffield's own Texas BBQ sauce, pulled pork, and coleslaw paired with Bell's Lager &amp; German Dog - German Mustard, sauerkraut, and crumbled pretzels paired with Bell's Oberon.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p><a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Check out our full calendar and see what's coming up in August and beyond here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-07-23T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Sparkling Ale, Black Note, a meet and greet and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/115-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Sparkling%20Ale%2C%20Black%20Note%2C%20a%20meet%20and%20greet%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/6412/8386/6065/SparklingAle_Label.small.crush.png" alt="SparklingAle_Label.tif.png" height="348" width="353">A look at Bell’s beer events this week in Michigan, Indiana, Minnesota, North Carolina, Ohio and Florida.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>July 18</h3> <p><strong>Buckets of Bell's: Mixer on the Mall After Party</strong><br> Bell's Brewery and <a href="http://www.millenniumrestaurants.com/loft/">The Wine Loft</a> are teaming up all summer long to host a Mixer on the Mall after party. &nbsp;We’ll be back again this week with Amber Ale, Lager Beer, Oarsman Ale, Oberon, Porter, Third Coast Beer and Two Hearted Ale starting at 7 p.m. For more information on this year's Mixer on the Mall season,<a href="http://bit.ly/L4XvGu"> go here</a>. <a href="http://bit.ly/L4XvGu"></a></p> <h3>July 20</h3> <p><strong>Meet and Greet</strong><br> Join us at <a href="http://webstersrestaurant.com/">Webster's</a> in Kalamazoo and celebrate Michigan Craft Beer month! Meet, greet and sample beer with brewery representatives from 5-8 p.m. Enjoy beer flights, food pairings, and an extended "Hoppy Hour" with $2 Michigan craft brews.</p> <h3>July 20- 29</h3> <p><strong>Kalamazoo Restaurant Week with The Beer Exchange </strong><br> Celebrate Kalamazoo Restaurant Week at <a href="http://www.kalamazoobeerexchange.com/">The Beer Exchange</a> with a three course menu paired with Bell's beers for only $25.</p> <p><strong>Here is the menu -&nbsp;</strong></p> <p><strong>First course: </strong>Amber Ale paired with fresh gazpacho made with vodka and topped with goat cheese croutons</p> <p><strong>Second course: </strong>Two Hearted paired with red wine and horseradish flank steak with bleu cheese mashed potatoes and bacon collards</p> <p><strong>Third course:</strong> Oarsman Ale paired with a strawberry gelato in a dark chocolate tart shell with candied sugar</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>July 18</h3> <p><strong>Two Hearted Firkin Tapping</strong><br> Come out and enjoy a pint of cask conditioned Bell's Two Hearted Ale at <a href="http://dickyswildhare.com/">Dicky’s Wild Hare</a> in Fort Wayne starting at 6 p.m. There will be some great Bell's freebies as well.</p> <h3>July 22</h3> <p><strong>Oberon Fiesta: <a href="http://www.haciendafiesta.com">Hacienda Mexican Restaurants </a></strong><br> Celebrate Hacienda's Beach Party with the heart of our summer lineup, Oberon Ale. Most craft beer bottles (including Oberon) will be on special for $2.50 all day. We will also have lots of Bell's and Oberon goodies to give away as well.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>July 19</h3> <p><strong>Cask Ale Night</strong><br> Join us for some traditional cask conditioned ale as we tap a firkin of Two Hearted Ale at <a href="http://www.zorbaz.com">Zorbaz</a> in Gull Lake at 5 p.m. It won't last long, so get there early.</p> <h3>July 21</h3> <p><a href="http://www.thebeerdabbler.com/festivals/highland-festival"><strong>Highland Fest Beer Dabbler</strong></a><br>Join us at Hillcrest Park in St. Paul for Cherry Stout, Oarsman, Two Hearted and Black Note.</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>July 19</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tasting</strong><br> We are teaming up with <a href="http://www.vintnerwinemarketnc.com/">Vintner Wine Market</a> in Charlotte to host a fantastic tasting featuring Oarsman, Amber, Pale Ale, Two Hearted Ale along with a special cask of Two Hearted starting at 6 p.m.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>July 17</h3> <p><strong>Black Note Night</strong><br> Celebrate the new <a href="http://www.lizardville.net">Lizardville </a>location in Rocky River with a glass of the rare Black Note starting at 5 p.m. Lager, Oarsman and Two Hearted will also be on tap.</p> <h3>July 20</h3> <p><strong>Sparkling Ale tappings</strong><br> Seven <a href="http://www.winkinglizard.com/">Winking Lizard</a> locations will host a special tapping of Bell's Sparkling Ale at 5 p.m.: Independence, Gateway, Bedford Heights, Mentor, Lakewood and Crosswoods in Columbus .</p> <p><strong>Third Friday on Mulberry</strong><br> Come out and enjoy an evening of music, food and beer in downtown Lebanon. Stop by the Bell's booth for Oberon and Two Hearted from 5-11 p.m.</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>July 17</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover</strong><br><a href="http://thefillingstationmiami.com/">The Filling Station</a> will be offering flights of Amber, Oberon, Two Hearted and Kalamazoo Stout. Receive a raffle ticket with your purchase of a flight for a your chance to win Bell's beer buckets!</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for events in North Carolina, Michigan, Indiana, Kentucky, North Dakota, and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look at our full calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-07-16T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News A Bit of Heat to debut July 21 at Bell's Eccentric Cafe http://bellsbeer.com/news/114-A%20Bit%20of%20Heat%20to%20debut%20July%2021%20at%20Bell%27s%20Eccentric%20Cafe <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/8bf7bfaeb6405263618dd4a3e338ec73.JPG" alt="IMG_5436.JPG" height="331" width="498">KALAMAZOO&nbsp; - <a title="Draft List" href="/eccentric-cafe/beers-on-tap/">The Draft Board</a> is about to get a little spicier – and we’re not talking about hops.</p> <p>A Bit of Heat, the homebrew from Geoff Groff that won <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/blog/54-And_the_winners_of_Bell___s_2nd_Annual_Homebrew_Competition_are____">our second annual homebrew competition back in September</a> will be tapped at 3 p.m. July 21 at the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Café</a>.</p> <p>Brewed with paradise seeds, rose hips and habaneros at our original brewery located next to the Cafe, this dry habanero-ed IPA or Strong Pale Ale comes in at 6.4% ABV.</p> <p>Groff, who is originally from Troy and now lives in Climax, has been homebrewing off and on since about 1999. Although he points out that he has brewed a lot more since joining the <a href="http://www.klob.org/">Kalamazoo Libation Organization of Brewers (KLOB)</a>, a local homebrewing club based in Kalamazoo, a couple of years ago.</p> <p>He decided the day before picking up his Bell’s wort to experiment with peppers, something he had wanted to do for a short while. He used habaneros that he grew.</p> <p>But don’t let the pepper factor scare you away. There’s just the right amount of heat, hence the name.</p> <p>“It is well balanced and is not as spicy as people may think. The spice is enough to recognize that's it in there and that it is peppery,” Groff said.</p> <p>It comes out a bit more in the finish, he said.</p> <p>Groff, along with Brewery Manager Andy Farrell and Specialty Brewer Zeke Bogan brewed about 10 barrels of A Bit of Heat in June on our 15-barrel system. This is also where we brew experimental and small batch beers like The Wild One and <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/blog/73-Bell___s_experimental_hop_series_will_feature_7_different_styles_of_beer_exclusive_to_the_Eccentric_Cafe">an ongoing series of beers that use experimental hops directly from growers’ trial plots</a> among others.</p> <p>I enjoyed being with Andy and Zeke, to watch them brew on a larger system, and seeing how different it is from brewing on a homebrew scale, he said.</p> <p>“The fact that you can brew 10 barrels in not more than a few hours longer then it might take a homebrewer to make five to ten gallons is quite cool,” Groff said.</p> <p>Groff is a substitute teacher in Kalamazoo and Van Buren counties and hopes to start brewing professionally, perhaps even open his own brewery, someday.</p> <p>Our <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/eccentric-cafe/events-calendar/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2028">3<sup>rd</sup> Annual Homebrew Expo and Competition Kick-off</a> will be held on Sept. 8. Stay tuned for more details as they become available.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-07-11T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Bayview Mackinac Race, Indiana Microbrewers Festival, Forecastle Festival & more http://bellsbeer.com/news/113-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Bayview%20Mackinac%20Race%2C%20Indiana%20Microbrewers%20Festival%2C%20Forecastle%20Festival%20%26%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/9403c0f0aceda977622bc9bcc15a6daf.jpg" alt="BayviewMac_18x24-4.jpg" height="593" width="445">Here is a look at Bell’s beer events this week in Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Minnesota, North Carolina, Ohio and Alabama.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>July 9 – July 15</h3> <p><strong>Michigan Craft Beer Month Celebration</strong><br> Every week this month, <a href="http://fooddance.net">Food Dance</a> is featuring a different Michigan-based brewery and this week, they are featuring Bell’s! Call 269-382-1888 for more details.</p> <h3>July 10</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover</strong><br> We will have 11 beers on tap including Oberon, Two Hearted, Amber Ale, Third Coast Beer, Black Note and more at <a href="http://www.lynchsirishtavern.com/">Lynch’s Tavern</a> in Port Huron from 6:30 to 9 p.m.</p> <h3>July 11</h3> <p><strong>Meet the Maker</strong><br> Meet and greet with head brewer Andy Farrell at <a href="http://www.millenniumrestaurants.com/martells/">Martell’s in Kalamazoo</a>. Oarsman, Third Coast, Amber and Porter are among the beers to be featured for the evening.<br> <br><strong> Bell's Brewery Night</strong><br> Celebrate this year's Bell's Bayview Mackinac Race with Black Note and many other Bell's beers on draft at <a href="http://vintagetavern.net/">Vintage Tavern</a> in Port Huron from 6:30 to 9 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Beer and food pairings</strong><br> Join us for Vienna Smoked Lager and a firkin of Third Coast Beer along with selected food pairings at <a href="http://www.fuelwoodfiregrill.com/">Fuel Wood-fire Grill</a> in Port Huron from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Oberon and Amber Ale will also be featured.<br> <br><strong> Beat the Heat</strong><br> Beat the heat with Oberon and Two Hearted, (beer of the month) on the lakefront patio of <a href="http://www.jerryspub.com/">Jerry's Pub</a> in Brooklyn. We will have bean bag toss (aka cornhole, baggo, bags) on the lawn, volleyball next to the lake and other games for prizes starting at 7 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Mixer on the Mall After Party</strong><br>Join us at <a href="http://www.millenniumrestaurants.com/loft/">The Wine Loft</a> and relax on the patio with a Bucket of Bell's Beer - Amber Ale, Lager Beer, Oarsman Ale, Oberon, Porter, Third Coast Beer and Two Hearted Ale will be featured. For more information on this year's Mixer on the Mall season, <a href="http://bit.ly/L4XvGu">go here</a>.</p> <h3>July 12- 14</h3> <p><strong>Acura Beer Garden, Bell's Beer Stage: 2012 Blue Water Fest</strong><br> Enjoy great entertainment and Bell’s beers - Oberon, Two Hearted, Amber, Lager of the Lakes and Oarsman. Oberon will also be featured at all beverage stations throughout the event. For more information, <a href="http://thebluewaterfest.com/index.html">go here</a>.</p> <h3>July 14</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Bayview Mackinac Race</strong><br>More than 200 boats and 2,500 sailors are expected to compete in the 88<sup>th</sup> annual race from southern Lake Huron to Mackinac Island. <a href="http://www.bycmack.com/">bycmack.com</a></p> <h3>July 14-15</h3> <p><strong>3rd Annual Meet Michigan</strong><br> More than 45 Michigan food manufacturers will be on hand sampling and selling their products. We’ll be pouring Oberon and Amber Ale at this free and family friendly event in Livonia. For more information, <a href="http://www.westbornmarket.com/">go here</a>.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>July 12</h3> <p><strong>Green City Market Benefit BBQ</strong><br> Green City Market's BBQ benefit in Lincoln Park features Chicago's finest chefs preparing dishes featuring Green City Market produce and products. We will be pouring Amber, Oarsman, Oberon and Two Hearted Ale. <a href="http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/242539">Tickets can be purchased online here. </a></p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>July 14</h3> <p><a href="http://www.brewersofindianaguild.com/events/month/05/year/2012/17th-annual-indiana-microbrewers-festival"><strong>17th Annual Indiana Microbrewers Festival</strong></a><br> Our rotating lineup for the day will include: Black Note, Harvest Ale, Oberon, Two Hearted, Oarsman Ale, Java Stout and a firkin of Amber Ale (in the cask tent).</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>July 12</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Brewery Forecastle Weekend Kick Off</strong><br> Celebrate the start of a big weekend of music at <a href="http://www.louisvillebeerstore.com">Louisville Beer Store</a> with more than 8 Bell's beers on tap including a firkin of Two Hearted Ale starting at 5 p.m.</p> <h3><br> July 13-14</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Weekend</strong><br> Heading to the official Forecastle after hours party with Bell's on the Belle of Louisville? Stop by <a href="http://www.osheaslouisville.net">Patrick's O'Shea's</a> on your way to the boat for some Oberon and Two Hearted.</p> <h3><br> July 13</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Friday The 13th Happy Hour</strong><br> Celebrate the start of a big weekend of music in Louisville with the rare and elusive Black Note, which is also a perfect beer for Friday the 13th! Other Bell's beers will also be featured at <a href="http://www.garageonmarket.com">Garage Bar</a> as well starting at 5 p.m.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>July 14</h3> <p><strong>Hopped Up Caribou</strong><br> Bell's will once again be attending the <a href="http://caribouhighlands.com/moguls-grille/">Hopped Up Caribou</a> at Caribou Highland/Moguls in Lutsen. &nbsp;We will be pouring Oarsman, Hell Hath No Fury, Black Note and others starting at 3 p.m.</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>July 13</h3> <p><strong>Black Note Tapping</strong><br> Black Note will be featured at this rare tasting event hosted by the folks at <a href="http://www.mellowmushroom.com">Mellow Mushroom</a>. This is the premier event in Greensboro before the Summertime Brews Festival the following day. Bell's Reps will be there to answer your questions and discuss all things Bell's from 7-10 p.m.</p> <h3>July 14</h3> <p><strong>Summertime Brews Festival</strong><br> Summertime Brews Festival is celebrating its seventh year - get out of the heat and enjoy this festival in the air conditioning inside the Greensboro Coliseum Complex. Visit the Bell's booth and see which VIP beers will be featured. For more information about tickets, visit <a href="http://www.greensborocoliseum.com/">www.summertimebrews.com</a> or call 336-372-4264.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>July 13- 15</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://www.bunburyfestival.com/">Bunbury Music Festival</a>, Cincinnati </strong><br> Stop by the Craft Beer Tent for a Bell's Two Hearted, Oberon and Pale Ale.</p> <h2>Alabama</h2> <h3>July 12<strong><a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2185"></a></strong></h3> <p><strong>Black Note Tapping</strong><br> Join us for a tapping of the ultra rare Black Note along with other Bell's favorites at <a href="http://www.hopjacks.com">Hopsjacks </a>in Mobile. This event will start at 7 p.m. sharp, so don't be late.</p> <h3>July 13<strong></strong></h3> <p><strong>Oberon Patio Party - Mobile</strong><br> Join us on the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Bar-Downtown-Mobile/129737750469301">Bar's</a> huge patio to celebrate summer with specially priced Oberon pints and lots of Bell's schwag!</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p><a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Check out our full calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-07-09T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Two Hearted once again included on the Best Beers in America list as voted by Zymurgy readers http://bellsbeer.com/news/112-Two%20Hearted%20once%20again%20included%20on%20the%20Best%20Beers%20in%20America%20list%20as%20voted%20by%20Zymurgy%20readers <p><em><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/190cdfe1023da57ddb9f46d92e1c8bf4.jpg" alt="NewTwoHeartedLabel2012.jpg" height="228" width="231">Zymurgy</em> readers once again voted Bell’s Two Hearted Ale No. 2 on this year’s Best Beers in America list.</p> <p>This is the third straight year that Two Hearted has finished second on the annual list where a record 16,445 votes were cast.</p> <p>Hopslam also came in at No. 6 on the list.</p> <p>Thank you to all who voted and cheers!</p> <p><strong>Bell’s was also ranked in the following categories:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Brewery Rankings (No. 5)</li> <li>Best Portfolio (tie - No. 6)</li> </ul> <p><a href="http://www.homebrewersassociation.org/pages/community/news/show?title=2012-best-beers-in-america">See the full list here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-07-03T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Head Up North, celebrate in Indianapolis and Louisville http://bellsbeer.com/news/111-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Head%20Up%20North%2C%20celebrate%20in%20Indianapolis%20and%20Louisville <p><img style="float: right;" src="/files/5712/8061/3800/1_14_BellsDCSsmall.jpg" alt="1_14_BellsDCSsmall.jpg" height="196" width="200">Here is a look at events coming up in Michigan, Indiana and Kentucky this week.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>July 7</h3> <p><strong>Up North Fourth </strong><br> The second annual Up North 4th great American picnic and music festival in Charlevoix will feature local food, live music a silent disco, bouncy houses, a mini-grilling clinic and more. Michigan craft breweries including Bell's will also be pouring.<a href="http://www.porterhouseproductions.com"> Go here for more information.</a></p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>July 5</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night</strong><a href="http://www.lamargaritaindy.com"><br>La Margarita Restaurant &amp; Tequila Bar</a> in Indianapolis will host a great lineup of Bell's beers on tap including Double Cream Stout, Oarsman and Amber plus a firkin of Two Hearted, as well as live music from The Reach Arounds starting at 6 p.m.</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>July&nbsp; 7</h3> <p><strong>Beerphest in Louisville</strong><br>The first Phoenix Hill Tavern Beerphestival will feature a wide range of craft beer including Bell’s Amber Ale, Oberon and Two Hearted. &nbsp;Visit <a href="http://www.phoenixhill.com">www.phoenixhill.com</a> for more information.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>July’s calendar is full of events coming up quite a few areas. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-07-03T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Beer and cheese tasting and buckets of Bell's http://bellsbeer.com/news/110-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Beer%20and%20cheese%20tasting%20and%20buckets%20of%20Bell%27s <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/d7c96ef01a4f14f1bf7c54c54cbc8c87.jpg" alt="TheCheeseLady.jpg" height="300" width="400">A look at Bell’s beer events this week in Michigan.</p> <h3>June 25</h3> <p><strong>Beer tasting: Sherman Lake - YMCA Open </strong><br> Proceeds from this event are used for scholarships that provide opportunities for area youth to attend summer camp and participate in programs where they’ll learn life skills, cultivate values and build relationships that lead to positive behaviors, better health and educational achievement. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.shermanlakeymca.org">www.shermanlakeymca.org</a></p> <h3>June 26</h3> <p><strong>Michigan Beer &amp; Cheese Night</strong><br> We are teaming up with<a href="http://thecheeselady.net/index1.shtml"> ‘The Cheese Lady’ aka Natalie St. Louis</a> for a five course beer and cheese pairing at <a href="http://www.schulersrestaurant.com/">Schuler's Restaurant</a>, located in historic downtown Marshall. Call 269-781-0600 for reservations or more information.</p> <h3>June 27</h3> <p><strong>Buckets of Bell's - Mixer on the Mall After Party </strong><br> Join us at <a href="http://www.millenniumrestaurants.com/loft/">The Wine Loft</a> in Kalamazoo at 7 p.m. and finish off the evening by relaxing on the patio with a bucket of Bell's beer. Amber Ale, Lager, Oarsman, Oberon, Porter, Third Coast Beer and Two Hearted Ale will be featured this week and every week through August. For more information on this year's Mixer on the Mall season, <a href="http://bit.ly/L4XvGu">go here.</a><a href="http://bit.ly/L4XvGu"></a></p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for Bell’s Night in Indianapolis, Up North Fourth, a Black Note tapping and much more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Check out our full calendar here</a>.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-06-25T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Q&A: How old is that bottle of Bell’s beer? http://bellsbeer.com/news/109-Q%26A%3A%20How%20old%20is%20that%20bottle%20of%20Bell%E2%80%99s%20beer%3F <p><strong><img style="margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black; float: right;" src="/files/cache/366e7c1474b286488de07ce0586bbddf.jpg" alt="Batch.jpg" height="264" width="196">A:</strong> Every bottle, not to mention case and mini-keg, has the actual date of packaging (PKGD) printed directly on it.</p> <p>You can find it in the white rectangle on the back label in a six digit format – MM/DD/YY (or side of the case or the upper side wall of our mini-kegs).</p> <p>Following that date is a letter – <strong>A, B or C</strong> – that denotes a shelf life category of six months, twelve months and unlimited respectively.</p> <p>Most of our ales and lagers will fall into the A or six month shelf life category.</p> <p>Cherry Stout has a shelf life of 12 months and two of our ales, Expedition Stout and Third Coast Old Ale, are designed for unlimited aging.</p> <p>Of course, you can also use our <a title="Batch Finder" href="/batch-search/">Batch Finder </a>as well.</p> <p>Looking for more answers? <a title="FAQ" href="/faq/">Go here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-06-21T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Buckets of Bell's, golf, Smoked Vienna Lager and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/108-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Buckets%20of%20Bell%27s%2C%20golf%2C%20Smoked%20Vienna%20Lager%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/94d06d1d14c737bfeec0f0f80fd066cb.jpg" alt="Fuel_Woodfire_Grill_Menu.jpg" height="682" width="528">Here is a look at Bell’s beer events this week in Michigan, Ohio, North Carolina, Minnesota and Virginia.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>June 20</h3> <p><strong>Summer Solstice Celebration</strong><br> Celebrate the first day of summer with some Oberon at <a href="http://hermannsotg.com/">Hermann’s Ole Town Grill</a> in Plymouth at 7 p.m. Call 734-451-1213 for more information.</p> <p><strong>Buckets of Bell's - Mixer on the Mall After Party</strong><br> We are teaming up with <a href="http://www.millenniumrestaurants.com/loft/">The Wine Loft</a> in Kalamazoo to host the after party after every Mixer on the Mall through August starting at 7 p.m. Amber Ale, Lager Beer, Oarsman Ale, Oberon, Porter, Third Coast Beer and Two Hearted Ale will be featured. For more information on this year's Mixer on the Mall season, visit <a href="http://bit.ly/L4XvGu">http://bit.ly/L4XvGu</a>.</p> <h3>June 21</h3> <p><strong>BBQ and Beer</strong><br> An evening of great food and beer, pairings for each course and a special release of Black Note to top it off at <a href="http://www.fuelwoodfiregrill.com/">Fuel Woodfire Grill</a> in Port Huron. Take a look at the complete menu at right. Call 810-479-4933 for more information.</p> <p><strong>5 Course Beer Dinner</strong><br> This beer dinner at <a href="http://cityparkgrill.com/">City Park Grill</a> in Petoskey will feature Two Hearted (paired with Buffalo Chicken Tostada), Oarsman (Creole BBQ Prawn), Lager (Fried Pork Wonton), Amber (Chorizo Beef Tenderloin Roulade) and Black Note (Carrot Cake with a bourbon caramel sauce). Call 231-347-0101 for reservations or more information.</p> <h3>June 22</h3> <p><a href="http://www.georgemurphys.com/images/MichGolfOuting.jpg"><strong>Michigan Craft Beer Golf Outing </strong></a><br> Price includes 5 drink tickets, breakfast, a round of golf at The Creek Fox Creek Golf Course in Livonia and a pig roast after. There will be a closest to the pin contest and a raffle for golf themed Bell's prizes. Oberon and Two Hearted Ale will be featured before and after the round of golf and there will be an Oarsman tent out on the course. The event will also feature a special firkin tapping. Other Michigan breweries will be represented as well. You can register by calling 248-473-1300 (and asking for Roberta) or in person.</p> <p><a href="http://www.festivalofthemoon.com/"><strong>Festival of the Moon</strong></a><br> We will be pouring Oberon, Two Hearted, Pale Ale, Oarsman, Lager, Kalamazoo Stout, Amber, Porter, Special Double Cream Stout (6 p.m.), Harvest Ale (7 p.m.), Black Note (8 p.m.), Cherry Stout (9 p.m.) and Expedition Stout (10 p.m.). in Lansing’s Old Town.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>June 20</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Dinner</strong><br> The chefs at <a href="http://www.selectrestaurants.com/parkersblue">Parker's Blue Ash Grill </a>in Cincinnati will prepare a five course meal, each paired with a different Bell's beer including a cask of Two Hearted Ale. For reservations or more information, call 513-891-8300.</p> <h3>June 21</h3> <p><strong>Oberon Pint Night</strong><br> Enjoy Oberon and keep the glass it comes in at <a href="http://www.candbpublichouse.com">Cock and Bull Public House</a> in Glendale starting at 5 p.m.</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>June 21</h3> <p><strong>Bell's &amp; Friends</strong><br> <a href="http://highlandsrestaurantgroup.net/">Ruka's Table</a> in Highlands is hosting a tasting of some fantastic beers along with our friends from Stone, New Holland, Left Hand and 21st Amendment. We will be pouring Oberon and Two Hearted as well as a firkin of Two Hearted. Call 828-526-3636 for more information.</p> <h3>June 23</h3> <p><strong>Bell's at the <a href="http://www.noc.com/">Nantahala Outdoor Center</a></strong><br> Sample Oberon, Two Hearted and Smoked Vienna Lager while enjoying the beauty of the North Carolina mountains in Bryson City along with live music starting at 5 p.m. Call 800-232-7238 for more information.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>June 21</h3> <p><strong>Cask Ale Night</strong><br> Enjoy Two Hearted on cask in St. Cloud at <a href="http://bouldertaphouse.com/">Boulder Tap House</a>. Firkin will be tapped at 6 p.m. Call 320-230-0100 for more information.</p> <h2>Virginia</h2> <h3>June 23-24</h3> <p><strong>Northern Virginia Summer Brewfest</strong><br> Your ticket includes a commemorative BrewFest sampling glass and 4 beer sampling tickets. For more details, visit <a href="http://novabrewfest.com/summer/">novabrewfest.com</a>.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us at the Sherman Lake YMCA Open, Schuler’s in Marshall for a beer and cheese pairing, a tap takeover in South Bend and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Check out our full calendar here</a>.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-06-20T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Firkin tappings, BRU FEST, cheese and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/107-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Firkin%20tappings%2C%20BRU%20FEST%2C%20cheese%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/e3e9636b991183851f964f99b0e62b92.jpg" alt="BruFestTokens.jpg" height="373" width="373">Here is a look at Bell’s beer events this week in Ohio, Indiana, North Dakota, Michigan and Arizona.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>June 11</h3> <p><strong>Beer Dinner</strong><br> Black Note, Oberon, Two Hearted and Amber will be featured as part of a special menu at <a href="http://mtmtavern.com/">Matt the Miller’s</a> in Columbus at 7 p.m. Call 614-754-1026 for more information.</p> <h3>June 15-16</h3> <p><strong>Jungle Jim's International Beer Festival, Fairfield </strong><br> Be sure to stop at the Bell's table during <a href="http://www.junglejims.com">Jungle Jim's 7th annual International Beer Festival</a> in Fairfield from 7-10 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the store or online at <a href="http://www.junglejims.com">www.junglejims.com</a>. Call 513-674-6000 for more information.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>June 11</h3> <p><strong>Firkin Tapping</strong><br> <a href="http://www.clubsodafortwayne.com/">Club Soda </a>in Fort Wayne will celebrate Customer Appreciation Day with a firkin of Two Hearted Ale, Oberon and Two Hearted on draught at &nbsp;5 p.m. Call 260-426-3442 for more information.</p> <h2>North Dakota</h2> <h3>June 12</h3> <p><strong>Cask Ale Night</strong><br> <a href="http://rezaspitch.com/">Reza’s Pitch</a> in Bismarck will tap a cask of Two Hearted Ale at 5 p.m. Call 701-390-1005 for more information.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>June 13</h3> <p><strong>Oberon Patio Party </strong><br> There will be games and a raffle for Oberon gear at this event in Livonia at <a href="http://oneunderbar.com/">One Under Bar &amp; Grill</a>. We will also be putting for prizes on the practice green and pouring Oarsman and Two Hearted as well.</p> <h3>June 14</h3> <p><strong>Beer and Cheese Tasting</strong><br> Smell the roses and kick off your Father's Day weekend at <a href="http://www.sawyergardencenter.com/">Sawyer Garden Center</a> in Sawyer while enjoying some Bell's beer and cheese pairings from 4-7 p.m.</p> <h3>June 16</h3> <p><strong>BRU FEST!</strong><br> This second annual event returns to the Royal Oak Farmers Market from 7-11 p.m. to support the Children's Leukemia Foundation of Michigan. Your ticket includes tokens for food and beer, live music, a gift bag and more. To purchase tickets or for more information, go to <a href="https://brumichigan.com/">brumichigan.com/</a>.</p> <p><strong>BBQ and Brew Festival </strong><br> We'll be pouring four Bell's beers for this event including Oberon, Two Hearted and Oarsman Ale in Glen Arbor from noon to 6 p.m. For more information, please visit <a href="http://bbqandbrewfest.com/">bbqandbrewfest.com/</a>.</p> <h3>June 17</h3> <p><strong>Dad's Day Beer-B-Que</strong><br>Celebrate with house smoked ribs, brisket and chicken plus homemade Two Hearted BBQ sauce and sides (not to mention plenty of beer) at the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Cafe</a> in downtown Kalamazoo.</p> <h2>Arizona</h2> <h3>June 14</h3> <p><strong>Tap takeover</strong><br>Join Veronica Sanders and Beer Kristine for seven beers on tap plus free swag at the <a href="http://wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/chandler/">Whole Foods Chandler Wine Bar</a> starting at 6 p.m. Oarsman Ale, Kalamazoo Stout, Bell’s Pale Ale, Best Brown, Two Hearted, Bell’s Amber, and Oberon will be featured.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p><a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look at our full calendar for more events.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-06-11T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Philly Beer Week, golf, outdoor parties, Savor and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/106-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Philly%20Beer%20Week%2C%20golf%2C%20outdoor%20parties%2C%20Savor%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/b279c2664d5f16d7cc05dbb2add03695.jpg" alt="SavorGlass.jpg" height="299" width="414">Here is a look at Bell’s beer events this week in Michigan, Pennsylvania and Washington DC (Savor photo courtesy of the Brewers Association).</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>June 4</h3> <p><strong>Beer Dinner</strong><br> <a href="http://www.minervas.net/index.php">Minervas Restaurant &amp; Bar</a> in Traverse City will host this sold out beer dinner from 6-8 p.m.</p> <h3>June 6</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover</strong><br> Nine Bell’s beers will be featured at Jet’s Pizza in Chelsea starting at 5 p.m. A Hopslam firkin will be tapped at 6 p.m. with Hell Hath No Fury following at 6:30 p.m. and Sparkling Ale at 7 p.m. For more details, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2097">go here</a>.</p> <p><strong>Summer cookout on the patio</strong><br> <a href="http://www.suburbaninns.com/big-e/">Big E’s Sports Bar &amp; Grill</a> in Midland will host a summer cookout on the patio. Call 989-794-8585 for more information.</p> <h3>June 7</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover</strong><br> <a href="http://www.shoresinn.com/">Shores Inn</a> in St. Clair Shores will host their first ever tap takeover starting at 6 p.m. Amber Ale, Kalamazoo Stout, Pale Ale, Oberon, Porter, Third Coast Beer, a Hopslam firkin and Two Hearted Ale will be featured along with games and prizes. Call 586-773-8940 for more information.</p> <h2>June 8</h2> <p><strong>19th Annual Bell's Scrambled</strong><a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1992"><br> Gull Lake View Golf Club</a> in Augusta will host this annual event that includes lunch, 18 holes with cart, beer, prizes and more. Call 269-250-8485 for more details.</p> <h2>June 10</h2> <p><strong>Oberon Tiki Deck Party</strong><a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2098"><br> </a>Dress in your favorite, fashionable or silly beachwear for this event at <a href="http://www.aubrees.com">Sticks </a>in Ypsilanti starting at 6 p.m. Call 734-483-1873 for more information.</p> <h2>Pennsylvania</h2> <h3><a href="http://www.phillybeerweek.org/">Philly Beer Week</a></h3> <p>Join us for six events in Philadelphia - details are below (keep in mind that we reserve the right to add a few surprises …).</p> <p><strong>June 5 - <a href="http://www.citytaphouse.com/">City Tap House </a></strong><br> <strong>Time:</strong> 10 p.m. - 2 a.m. <br> <strong>Beers to be featured:</strong> Black Note, Oarsman, Oberon and Two Hearted Ale</p> <p><strong>June 6 - <a href="http://www.saintstephensgreen.com/">St. Stephens</a> </strong><br> <strong>Time: </strong>&nbsp;7-10 p.m. <br> <strong>Beers to be featured:</strong> Amber Ale, Black Note, Cherry Stout, Java Stout, Kalamazoo Stout, Lager Beer, Pale Ale, Oarsman Ale, Porter, Two Hearted Ale and Double Cream Stout</p> <p><strong>June 6 - <a href="http://www.khyberpasspub.com/">Khyber Pass Pub </a></strong><br> <strong>Time: </strong>&nbsp;Noon-4 p.m. <br> <strong>Beers to be featured:</strong> 2007 Cherry Stout, Best Brown, Expedition Stout, Hopslam, Kalamazoo Stout and Porter</p> <p><strong>June 7 - <a href="http://theprohibitiontaproom.com/">Prohibition Taproom</a></strong><br> <strong>Time: </strong>&nbsp;Noon-3 p.m. <br> <strong>Beers to be featured:</strong> Amber Ale, Cherry Stout, Java Stout, Kalamazoo Stout, Lager Beer, Pale Ale, Oarsman Ale, Porter, Two Hearted Ale, Double Cream Stout and Black Note</p> <p><strong>June 7 - <a href="http://www.americansardinebar.com/">American Sardine Bar</a></strong><br> <strong>Time:</strong> 4-6 p.m.<br> Beers to be featured: Bells Lager, Hop Slam, 2010 Expedition, Two Hearted, Special Double Cream Stout and Oberon</p> <p><strong>June 7- <a href="http://www.philadelphiabarandrestaurant.com/">Philadelphia Bar and Restaurant</a></strong><br> <strong>Time:</strong> 7-10 p.m.<br> <strong>Beers to be featured:</strong> Two Hearted, Kalamazoo, Porter, Cherry Stout, Lager of the Lakes, Java Stout, Oarsman, Amber, Pale, Double Cream Stout, Black Note and a 2010 Third Coast Old Ale</p> <h2>Washington DC</h2> <h3>June 8-9</h3> <p><strong>Savor</strong><br> Bell’s will be among 74 small and independent craft brewers representing eight geographic regions in our nation’s capital. We will be pouring Smoked Vienna Lager and The Wild One. <a href="http://bellsbeer.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5f4ebf50700ea96b0d252d02c&amp;id=ba546d1bca&amp;e=6da61a170e">For more information, go here</a>.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for an Oberon Patio Party, Jungle Jim’s International Beer Festival, Bru Fest!, a cheese tasting and more. For more details as we all as a look at our full calendar, go here.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-06-04T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Tastings, Black Note, Batch 9,000 and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/105-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Tastings%2C%20Black%20Note%2C%20Batch%209%2C000%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/5112/8387/1341/Batch9000_label.small.crush.png" alt="Batch9000_label.tif.png" height="348" width="354">Here is a look at Bell's beer events this week in Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Carolina and Illinois.</p> <h2>Wisconsin</h2> <h3>May 31</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Night</strong><br> <a href="http://www.romanspub.com/">Romans’ Pub</a> in Milwaukee will tap Black Note and Batch 9,000 at 5 p.m. Call 414-481-3396 for more information.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>June 1</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tasting No. 1</strong><br> MGM-Calhoun in Minneapolis will be serving Amber Ale, Oberon and Two Hearted from 5-7 p.m. Call 612-922-1130 for more information.</p> <h3>June 2</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tasting No. 2</strong><br> Join Jason Gillum for another Bell’s tasting at MGM, this time in Minnetonka, from 5-7 p.m. He’ll be pouring Amber, Oberon and Two Hearted for this event as well.</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>June 1</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tasting</strong><br> Amber Ale, Oberon, Oarsman and Two Hearted (both draft and cask for Two Hearted) will be available at <a href="http://www.crescentmooncafenc.com/">Crescent Moon Cafe</a> in Hickory at 5 p.m. Call 828-322-1456 for more information.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>June 2</h3> <p><strong>A Celebration of Craft Beer</strong><br> <a href="http://www.napersettlement.museum/">Naper Settlement</a> in Naperville will host this event featuring a little bit of history, multiple breweries and multiple beers starting at 6 p.m (for VIPs) and &nbsp;6:30 p.m. Tickets are limited. Call 630-420-6010 or <a href="http://www.napersettlement.museum/">go here for more information</a>.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for a tap takeover at Jet’s Pizza in Chelsea, a summer cookout, golf and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Check out our full calendar for more details and upcoming events.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-05-29T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Q&A: Bell’s mini-kegs (storage, shelf life, Oberon design and more) http://bellsbeer.com/news/104-Q%26A%3A%20Bell%E2%80%99s%20mini-kegs%20%28storage%2C%20shelf%20life%2C%20Oberon%20design%20and%20more%29 <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/0d999139f1e1193b19da6e875288a7f6.jpg" alt="OberonQA.jpg" height="450" width="302">With the recent release of this year’s Oberon mini-kegs, we wanted to pull together some of the more commonly asked questions (along with answers) about them here on our blog. Of course, <a title="FAQ" href="/faq/">these and many other Frequently Asked Questions can always be found here.</a></p> <p><strong>Q: Where did this year’s design come from?</strong></p> <p><strong>A:</strong> The photo featured for 2012 was taken on the shore of Lake Michigan in Ludington (Mich.).</p> <p><strong>Q: How long will a mini-keg last after opening?</strong></p> <p><strong>A:</strong> We recommend finishing them within 24-48 hours. They can be stored longer if refrigerated and with the top vent closed, but the carbonation will start to suffer. There is no counter pressure that would help hold the carbonation in, so the top seal will only offer so much protection.</p> <p><strong>Q: How long can they be stored unopened?</strong></p> <p><strong>A:</strong> Several months, as long as you store them in a cool place. Refrigeration helps as well, and we encourage retailers to keep them cold as an added benefit for our fans, but at home - closets or basements will also work.</p> <p>One other thing to keep in mind is the six-digit packaging date, which is marked on the upper portion of every mini-keg alongside the batch number. Oberon has a shelf life of six months, so please make note of when your mini-keg was packaged.</p> <p><strong>Q: Can I use your mini-kegs with my counter-top dispensing system?</strong></p> <p><strong>A:</strong> We have recently tested two and while we do not endorse them, the <a href="http://www.avantiproducts.com/products/id/466">Avanti Portable Party Pu</a>b and <a href="http://www.vinotemp.com/View.aspx/3120/Mini-Keg-Beer-Dispenser---For-Use-with-Non-Pressurized-Kegs">Vinotemp Mini Keg Beer Dispenser</a> seemed to work well.</p> <p><strong>Q: Do you sell empty mini-kegs?</strong></p> <p><strong>A:</strong> Yes we do, but only at the <a title="General Store" href="/index.php?cID=139">Bell’s General Store</a>.</p> <p><strong>Q: Where can I find them in my area?</strong></p> <p><strong>A: </strong>They are slowly rolling out to areas outside of Michigan. <a title="Beer Finder" href="/index.php?cID=236">You can consult our Beer Finder</a> for locations near you that have received recent deliveries of Oberon as a starting point (Please note: The Beer Finder’s reach is limited. <a title="Beer Finder" href="/index.php?cID=236">More on that can be found here.</a>).</p> <p><strong>Q: Will other brand be available in mini-kegs (Two Hearted, etc.)?</strong></p> <p><strong>A:</strong> We hope to offer other beers in this additional packaging option again this year, but it is too early to say if and when (we will keep everyone posted though).</p> <p><strong>Q: Are they recyclable?</strong></p> <p><strong>A:</strong> Yes they are, where available. We have also seen them used to build tables, reused as planters, converted into fountains, amps and even a turned into a canjo. (We would love to see how you have re-purposed them.<a href="mailto:photos@bellsbeer.com"> Send photos here.</a>)</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-05-25T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Dinners, Brat Festival, Chicago Craft Beer Week and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/103-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Dinners%2C%20Brat%20Festival%2C%20Chicago%20Craft%20Beer%20Week%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/2998ca60143ac0cf17c3376e0320516b.jpg" alt="ZaziosDinner.jpg" height="547" width="428">Here is a look at Bell’s beer events this week in Michigan, Illinois and Minnesota.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>May 22</h3> <p><strong>5 course beer dinner</strong><br> <a href="http://www.cincolagos.com/">Cinco Lagos</a> in Milford will host a five course beer dinner featuring Sparkling Ale, Double Cream Stout and others starting at 6 p.m. Call 248-684-7455 for more information.<a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2002"> Find the menu here.</a></p> <h3>May 23</h3> <p><strong>Chef's Table and beer dinner</strong><br> <a href="http://www.suburbaninns.com/big-e/%20%20">Big E’s Sports Bar &amp; Grill</a> in Midland will host this beer dinner starting at 6 p.m. Reservations are required. Call 989-794-858 for more information.</p> <p><strong>Anniversary celebration</strong><br> <a href="http://www.fuelwoodfiregrill.com/">Fuel Wood-Fire Grill</a> in Port Huron will celebrate their first anniversary with Batch 9,000, Oberon, Two Hearted, Amber Ale and a great menu. Call 810-479-4933 for more information.</p> <h3>May 24</h3> <p><strong>Bell's beer dinner</strong><br> This four course dinner at <a href="http://www.zazios.com/">Zazios </a>in Kalamazoo will feature Smoked Vienna Lager, Oberon gelato and more starting at 5:30 p.m. Call 269-384-2650 for more information.</p> <p><strong>Beer dinner</strong><br><a href="http://www.seasonalgrille.com/">Seasonal Grille</a> in Hastings will hots a dinner featuring Cherry Stout, Kalamazoo Stout, Lager, Two Hearted and Debs' Red at 7 p.m.</p> <h3>May 26</h3> <p><strong>Michigan Beer &amp; Brat Festival</strong><br> Sample more than 50 of Michigan’s finest microbrews, local hard ciders &amp; mead. Gourmet brats from northwest Michigan will also be served. This event is held outdoors, slope side at Crystal Mountain from 3-9 p.m. For more information, <a href="http://www.crystalmountain.com/beerfest">go here.</a></p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>May 22-24</h3> <p><strong>Chicago Craft Beer Week 2012 </strong><br> Here is a brief rundown of our events for Chicago Craft Beer Week.</p> <p><strong>May 22:</strong> Skylark - Hell Hath No Fury &amp; Two Hearted Ale</p> <p><strong>May 23:</strong> Michigan brewery night at Beer Bistro on Madison - Smoked Vienna Lager</p> <p><strong>May 24:</strong> Tap takeover with Great Lakes Brewing Co. at Brixie’s - Smoked Vienna Lager, Harvest Ale and Black Note.</p> <p><strong>For more details,</strong> <a href="http://chibeerweek.com/">visit the official website </a>or contact the venue.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>May 22</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Beer Tasting</strong><br>Join Jason Gillum at <a href="http://winethief.net/blog/the-ale-jail">Ale Jail</a> in St. Paul for Amber Ale, Kalamazoo Stout, Lager, Oarsman, Oberon, Porter, Third Coast Beer and Two Hearted Ale. Call 651-698-9463 for more information.</p> <h3>May 24</h3> <p><strong>Cask Ale Night</strong><br>We'll be tapping a cask of Two Heated at <a href="http://www.gunflinttavern.com/">Gun Flint Tavern</a> in Grand Marais to kick off the Memorial Day weekend at 5 p.m. sharp. Call 218-387-1563 for more information.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for Bell’s night at Romans’ Pub in Milwaukee for Black Note and Batch 9,000 on May 31 and two tastings in Minnesota.<br> <br></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-05-21T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Tips, directions: Tour Bell's new brewhouse, Production Facility May 19-20 http://bellsbeer.com/news/102-Tips%2C%20directions%3A%20Tour%20Bell%27s%20new%20brewhouse%2C%20Production%20Facility%20May%2019-20 <p style="text-align: left;"><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/68b94ab786ff79168eb7554f41b07bc0.jpg" alt="OpenHouseBlog.jpg" height="294" width="441">For those of you who will be stopping by our Open House this Saturday and Sunday (May19-20), here are some things to keep in mind.</p> <ul> <li>Our Production Facility, 8938 Krum Ave. in Comstock, will be open from noon to 5 p.m. both days. All are welcome.</li> <li>We will be grilling and serving soda.</li> <li>Be sure to grab a brochure from the table when you walk in for <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/about/200-barrel-brewhouse/">more details about our latest expansion</a>.</li> <li>Afterward, stop by the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Café</a> in downtown Kalamazoo, to sample any of our 26 different beers on taps along with special menu items.</li> <li>To help celebrate our grand opening, four downtown Kalamazoo restaurants are also offering special beers and menu items this week. For more details, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/blog/100-Downtown_Kalamazoo_locations_will_help_celebrate_the_opening_of_Bell_s_new_brewhouse">take a look at our previous post.</a></li> </ul> <p>And so you know where you are going …</p> <h2>Directions</h2> <p><strong>To our Production Facility, from the Eccentric Café&nbsp; and Bell’s General Store (downtown Kalamazoo):</strong></p> <ul> <li>Head west on E. Kalamazoo Ave.</li> <li>Take the first Left onto Pitcher St.</li> <li>Take the second Left onto E. Michigan Ave.</li> <li>Turn Right onto M-96 E</li> <li>Turn Right onto Van Bruggen St. which becomes Krum Ave. Production facility will be on the right.</li> </ul> <p><strong>To the Eccentric Café &amp; General Store from our Production Facility:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Head west on Krum Ave.</li> <li>Continue onto Van Bruggen St.</li> <li>Turn Left onto M-96 W/E. Michigan Ave.</li> <li>Turn Left onto E. Michigan Ave.</li> <li>Continue onto E. Kalamazoo Ave.</li> <li>General Store/Eccentric Café will be on your right: 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave.</li> </ul> <p><a title="Map" href="/contact/map/">You can also find a Google map here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-05-18T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's Brewery officially opens 200-barrel brewhouse with ribbon cutting, flag raising and open house http://bellsbeer.com/news/101-Bell%27s%20Brewery%20officially%20opens%20200-barrel%20brewhouse%20with%20ribbon%20cutting%2C%20flag%20raising%20and%20open%20house <p class="s-description"><img style="border: 0.5px solid black; vertical-align: middle; float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/458d76b9adad7b9daff876eff464fc78.jpg" alt="IMG_4382.jpg" width="496" height="331"></p> <p class="s-description">COMSTOCK - On Monday, May 14, Bell's Brewery, Inc. kicked off a week long celebration with the grand opening of its new brewhouse and expanded production facility in Comstock, Michigan.</p> <p class="s-description">The day included a flag raising, a ribbon cutting and a press conference inside the new brewhouse.</p> <p class="s-description">For a detailed look at what happened and what our fans were saying about it on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BellsBreweryInc">Facebook </a>and <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/BellsBrewery">Twitter </a>as well as a look at how other media organizations covered the event, <a href="http://storify.com/BellsBrewery/bell-s-brewery-celebrates-opening-of-200-barrel-br">take a look at our Storify page here</a>.</p> <p class="s-description">A public open house will be held May 19-20 from noon to 5 p.m. both days. Free food and soda will also be available.</p> <div id="HTMLBlock2152" class="HTMLBlock"> <noscript>[&lt;a href="http://storify.com/BellsBrewery/bell-s-brewery-celebrates-opening-of-200-barrel-br" target="_blank"&gt;View the story "Bell's Brewery celebrates opening of 200-barrel brewhouse" on Storify&lt;/a&gt;]</noscript></div> <div id="HTMLBlock2153" class="HTMLBlock"> <noscript>[&lt;a href="http://storify.com/BellsBrewery/bell-s-brewery-celebrates-opening-of-200-barrel-br" target="_blank"&gt;View the story "Bell's Brewery officially opens new 200-barrel brewhouse and expanded production facility" on Storify&lt;/a&gt;]</noscript></div> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-05-15T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Downtown Kalamazoo locations will help celebrate the opening of Bell's new brewhouse http://bellsbeer.com/news/100-Downtown%20Kalamazoo%20locations%20will%20help%20celebrate%20the%20opening%20of%20Bell%27s%20new%20brewhouse <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/8113/3674/7565/BreweryExterior.jpg" alt="BreweryExterior.jpg" height="318" width="486">Kalamazoo restaurants, along with the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Café</a>, will join the celebration as we officially open our new 200-barrel brewhouse and expanded production facility.</p> <p>Here is a look at who will be celebrating with us as well as what specials will be offered and when.</p> <h2>May 11-20</h2> <h3><a href="http://www.zazios.com/kalamazoo-home-page.html">Zazios</a></h3> <p>Special menu items will be offered along with Oberon, Debs’ Red and Oarsman Ale.</p> <h3><a href="http://webstersrestaurant.com/">Webster’s Prime</a></h3> <p>Special appetizers paired with Black Note, Best Brown, Oberon and Third Coast Beer.</p> <h3><a href="http://www.oldburdicks.com/">Old Burdick’s Downtown</a></h3> <p>Special menu items will be offered along with Harvest Ale, Double Cream Stout, Oarsman, Two Hearted, Pale Ale, Amber and Oberon.</p> <h2>May 16</h2> <h3>Old Burdick’s Downtown<strong></strong></h3> <p><strong>Minute to Win It Party:</strong> Celebrate with games, trivia, prizes and beer (see list above) starting at 8 p.m. A firkin of Two Hearted will also be tapped before the event at 6 p.m.</p> <h2>May 14-18</h2> <h3><a href="http://kalamazoobeerexchange.com/">Kalamazoo Beer Exchange</a></h3> <p><strong>May 14: </strong>Green chili and pepper marinated chicken sate with a tomato, cucumber, cilantro and garbanzo salad with creme fraise paired with Third Coast Beer.</p> <p><strong>May 15:</strong> Chocolate decadent cake, chocolate mousse, white chocolate cream and strawberries paired with Java Stout.<br> <br> <strong>May 16:</strong>&nbsp; Herb and panko crusted pork chops with tomato, caper relish and grilled smoked polenta paired with Cherry Stout.<br> <br> <strong>May 17:</strong> Lemon rosemary chicken kabobs with kalamata, couscous and grilled pita paired with Two Hearted.<br> <br> <strong>May 18:</strong> Salmon Alyeska with twice baked potato and grilled asparagus paired with Oberon.</p> <h2>All week long</h2> <p>Stop by the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Café</a> for a selection of 26 different Bell’s beers, many of which are not available elsewhere. While you are there, be sure to check out the daily specials board to see what tasty creations our kitchen has come up with help from our smoker!</p> <h2>One more: May 19-20</h2> <p><strong>Don’t forget to stop by our open house:</strong> From noon to 5 p.m. on both May 19 &amp; 20, <strong>everyone is invited</strong> to take a look at our new production facility at 8938 Krum Ave. in Comstock. We will also be grilling, so bring your appetite.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-05-11T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Homebrewing has a new home on bellsbeer.com http://bellsbeer.com/news/99-Homebrewing%20has%20a%20new%20home%20on%20bellsbeer.com <p><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/files/cache/3549702a368a4e434b57fe3197470594.jpg" alt="A view from the homebrew shop's original location on Burdick Street" height="300" width="378">Before there was a Bell’s Brewery, our president and founder, Larry Bell, was a homebrewer.</p> <p>In 1983, Bell opened a homebrew supply store on Burdick St. in downtown Kalamazoo (photo at right), not far from where the<a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/"> Eccentric Café</a> is today.</p> <p>Twenty-seven years later, Bell's will open a brand new 200-barrel brewhouse.</p> <p>Homebrewing is at our core.</p> <p>With that in mind we developed <a title="Homebrewing" href="/homebrewing/">a home here, on our website</a>, with information about homebrew events, demonstrations and of course, Bell’s Homebrew Expo &amp; Competition, held annually in September. We provide the wort and the winner gets to brew their recipe on our system to go on tap at the Café.</p> <p>We have also started a <a title="Contact" href="/contact/">“homebrew hotline”</a> where our fans can ask questions and get advice.</p> <p>The resources on this new section will continue to grow with help from <a href="http://bellshomebrew.tumblr.com/">a new Tumblr blog</a> as well. Look for recipes, equipment features and more in the days, weeks and months to come.</p> <p><a title="Homebrewing" href="/homebrewing/">Take a look.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-05-10T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Bell's Circus, Oyster dinner, Black Note and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/98-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Bell%27s%20Circus%2C%20Oyster%20dinner%2C%20Black%20Note%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/418d39d7e81c1f61a40ec0dd15cf5be0.jpg" alt="BellsCircus.jpg" height="455" width="342">Here is a look at Bell's beer events this week in Michigan, Kentucky and Wisconsin.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>May 9</h3> <p><strong>Chef's Table and beer dinner</strong><br> Big E's Sports Bar &amp; Grill in Midland will host a five course beer dinner featuring Oarsman Ale, Pale Ale, Two Hearted, Amber and Porter. For the full menu, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1998">go here</a>. For more information, call 989-794-8585.</p> <p><strong>Black Note tasting</strong><br> Big E’s will also host a Black Note tasting from 6-8 p.m. that same night.</p> <p><strong>Oyster dinner</strong><br> A four course beer dinner, which will feature an unlimited, fresh, cold water oyster course will start at 6 p.m. at <a href="http://RealSeafoodCoRestaurant.com">Real Seafood Co.</a> in Ann Arbor. It will also feature Two Hearted, Double Cream Stout, Oarsman, Oberon and Third Coast Beer. Call 734-769-5960 for more information. For the full menu,<a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2021"> go here</a>.</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>May 10</h3> <p><strong>Oberon pint night</strong><br> <a href="http://candbpublichouse.com">The Cock &amp; Bull</a> in Covington (Mainstrasse location) will host this event beginning at 5 p.m. AND you get to keep the glass. Call 859-581-4253 for more information.</p> <h2>Wisconsin</h2> <h3>May 12</h3> <p><strong>Spend the day at the (Bell's) circus </strong><br> Try your hand at the ring toss, bags, darts, dunk tank and ladder ball! This kid/family friendly event at<a href="http://www.dexterspubmadison.com/"> Dexter’s Pub</a> in Madison (1-8 p.m.) will also feature multiple performances from a fire breather in the late afternoon/early evening as well as soda, popcorn, cotton candy, snow cones and hot dogs. On tap will be Oberon, Two Hearted Ale, Amber, Pale Ale, Porter and Harvest Ale. Black Note will be tapped at 8 p.m. Participants are encouraged to use public transportation, ride a bike or walk as parking will be limited.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Events next week include a Minute to Win It party in Kalamazoo, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1974">our new brewery open house</a> and the World Expo of Beer. For more information or to see our entire calendar, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">go here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-05-07T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Celebrate National Homebrew Day with a Big Brew event at the Eccentric Café http://bellsbeer.com/news/97-Celebrate%20National%20Homebrew%20Day%20with%20a%20Big%20Brew%20event%20at%20the%20Eccentric%20Caf%C3%A9 <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/8713/3598/8558/bigbrew2011.jpg" alt="bigbrew2011.jpg" height="257" width="300">KALAMAZOO – Representatives from <a href="http://klob.org/">KLOB (Kalamazoo Libation Organization of Brewers) </a>will demonstrate the art of homebrewing at <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Bell’s Eccentric Café</a> to celebrate Big Brew Day on Saturday (May 5).</p> <p>This annual event organized by the American Homebrewers Association is a celebration of National Homebrew Day, which is May 7.</p> <p>Every year homebrewers invite family and friends to brewing sites around the world on the first Saturday in May to celebrate this holiday. More than 5,000 homebrewers from North America, Europe, Africa, Asia, South America and Australia are expected to participate this year, according to the AHA.&nbsp;</p> <p>All grain demonstrations will begin at 10 a.m. while extract demos will begin around noon. This demonstration will be an all day event, so feel free to come and go as you wish. All skill levels are welcome. Bring your questions and enjoy a Bell’s beer while you are there.</p> <p>For more on Big Brew Day, including a look at this year’s official recipes, <a href="http://www.homebrewersassociation.org/pages/events/national-homebrew-day">go here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-05-02T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Multiple beer dinners, tacos, Black Note and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/96-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Multiple%20beer%20dinners%2C%20tacos%2C%20Black%20Note%20and%20more <p>Here is a look at Bell’s beer events this week in Michigan, Illinois, North Carolina and Georgia.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>May 1</h3> <p><strong>Pauly's beer dinner</strong><br> <a href="http://www.thegilmorecollection.com">Flat River Grill</a> will host a five course beer dinner at<strong> </strong>6:30 p.m. in Lowell.<em> The menu:</em></p> <p><strong>First course:</strong> Amber Ale with tomato terrine, pistachio biscotti, 25 year balsamic, extra virgin olive oil, stuffed cherry tomato garnie</p> <p><strong>Second course:</strong> Winter White with dried fruit and peach salad dressed with roasted radish vinaigrette and Haarsma Apiaries honey</p> <p><strong>Third course:</strong> Two Hearted IPA with salmon gravlax over braised cabbage and herbed truffle vinaigrette</p> <p><strong>Fourth course:</strong> Consecrator Doppelbock with roasted pork belly with pan jus over baby herbed marbled potatoes</p> <p><strong>Fifth course:</strong> Cherry Stout with white chocolate terrine with dried cherry sauce and Jack Daniels ice cream</p> <h2>May 2</h2> <p><strong>Bell's beer dinner</strong><a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2010"><br> </a><a href="http://www.terrybs.com/_index.php">Terry B's</a> in Dexter will host their five course beer dinner starting at 6 p.m.&nbsp;<em>On the menu:</em></p> <p><strong>Reception Beers:</strong> Amber &amp; Lager Beer</p> <p><strong>First course:</strong> Oberon Ale paired with potato chip crusted mahi mahi, fried green tomatoes, orange thyme mustard and sambuca greens</p> <p><strong>Second course:</strong> Two Hearted IPA paired with spicy corn bisque, pickled peppers, smoked salmon and laughing bird shrimp</p> <p><strong>Intermezzo:</strong> Oarsman Ale sorbet</p> <p><strong>Third course:</strong> Consecrator Doppelbock paired with braised pork belly, caramelized onions, beluga lentils, pistachio and Consecrator Doppelbock puree, natural reduction</p> <p><strong>Fourth course:</strong> Hell Hath No Fury paired with Culver Farms Duck “ham,” golden raisin bread pudding, braised wild ramps, hedgehog mushrooms, plum jus</p> <p><strong>Fifth course: </strong>Bell’s Porter “Rolo” cheesecake, Guernsy Dairy coffee ice cream, saskatoon beery chocolate “shot,” black lava sea salt and smoked cashews.</p> <h3>May 4</h3> <p><strong>Quatro de Mayo</strong><br> <a href="http://www.grandtrunkpub.com">Foran's Grand Trunk Pub</a> in Detroit will feature 7 Bell's beers on tap plus a firkin of Hopslam: Consecrator Doppelbock, Cherry Stout, Oberon, Hell Hath No Fury ... Ale, The Oracle, Oarsman and Two Hearted.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>May 2</h3> <p><strong>Beer Social: Bottom Lounge, Chicago </strong><br> Join us for 6 Bell's beers (including Black Note, Oarsman, Oberon, Sparkling Ale and Debs' Red) paired with 4 sausages starting at 7 p.m. After 9 p.m., the party will continue with a summer patio kick-off party featuring Oberon. For more information, <a href="http://bottomlounge.com/shows/bottom-lounge-beer-social-bells-brewery">go here</a>.</p> <h3>May 6<a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=2005"></a></h3> <p><strong>Super Focused No Bull Sh*t Beer and Spirits Festival </strong><br> This event is 21 and over and a valid ID is required for entry. Other participating breweries include Dogfish Head, Firestone, Walker, Founders Brewing Co., Great Lakes, New Belgium, New Holland Brewing Co., Three Floyds, Stone and more.</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>May 2</h3> <p><strong>Bells Night: <a href="http://www.neighborhoodgrille.com/">Dilworth Neighborhood</a> Grill, Charlotte </strong><br> Amber Ale, Black Note, Consecrator Doppelbock, Expedition Stout, Lager Beer, Oarsman Ale, Oberon, Porter, Two Hearted Ale, Harvest Ale and a Two Hearted Firkin will be on tap starting at 5 p.m.</p> <h2>Georgia</h2> <h3>May 5</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s and tacos</strong><br> Join us at high noon for some very rare Bell's beers and house made tacos from Chef Rian Tittle. More than ten different Bell's beers plus a few rarities will be featured including Harvest Ale and Black Note at<a href="http://www.brickstorepub.com/"> Brickstore Pub</a> in Decatur.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Upcoming events include a beer dinner in Midland, Mich. and a day at the (Bell’s) Circus in Wisconsin. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look at our full calendar for more information.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-04-30T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Pittsburgh Beer Week, a 4-course beer dinner, Golden Rye and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/95-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Pittsburgh%20Beer%20Week%2C%20a%204-course%20beer%20dinner%2C%20Golden%20Rye%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/b9ba9b7284551444432d2eb25f78dd6f.jpg" alt="Bells_Golden_Rye_Label750_copy.jpg" height="391" width="467">Here’s a look at Bell’s beer events coming up this week in Pennsylvania, North Dakota, Michigan and Wisconsin.</p> <h2>Pennsylvania</h2> <h3>April 24</h3> <p><strong>Pittsburgh Beer Week</strong><br> <a href="http://www.harrisgrill.com/">Harris Grill </a>and Bell's will celebrate Pittsburgh Beer Week with a variety of Bell's beers on tap including the very rare Black Note Stout! Add the fact that it's also Bacon Night and you have no more excuses. Event starts at 6 p.m. Call 412-362-5273 for more information.</p> <h2>North Dakota</h2> <h3>April 24</h3> <p><strong>Bell's night</strong><br> Enjoy some of the only kegs of Golden Rye, Harvest Ale and Debs’ Red in North Dakota starting at 5 p.m. at <a href="http://thewalrusrestaurant.com/">The Walrus</a> in Bismarck. Call 701-250-0020 for more information.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>April 26</h3> <p><strong>Bell's beer dinner</strong><br> <a href="http://www.gunlakecasino.com">Gun Lake Casino</a> in Wayland will host a four course beer dinner starting at 7 p.m. &nbsp;Here’s the menu:</p> <p><strong>Appetizer:</strong> Infused chicken wings served with a yogurt carrot and celery slaw paired with Pale Ale</p> <p><strong>Soup and salad:</strong> Sharp cheddar Oarsman Ale soup and a wedge salad with a Chardonnay vinaigrette paired with Oarsman Ale</p> <p><strong>Entree:</strong> Two seared medallions of beer tenderloin with grilled asparagus and an Oberon reduction glaze paired with Oberon Ale</p> <p><strong>Dessert:</strong> Rosemary infused flourless chocolate torte with a raspberry coulis and sweet whipped cream paired with Kalamazoo Stout.</p> <p>Call 269-792-7609 for more information.</p> <h2>Wisconsin</h2> <h3>April 27</h3> <p><strong>Bell's night</strong><br> Join us for Oberon, Harvest Ale and Black Note at <a href="%20http://www.bodegabrewpublax.com/">Bodega Brew Pub</a> in La Crosse starting at 7 p.m.&nbsp; Call 608-782-0677 for more information.</p> <h3>April 28</h3> <p><strong>Between The Bluffs Beer Fest</strong><br> We'll be pouring Oberon, Two Hearted and a firkin of Hopslam. For tickets and more information, visit <a href="http://www.betweenthebluffsbeerfest.com/">www.betweenthebluffsbeerfest.com/</a></p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for a beer dinner in Lowell (Michigan), a beer social in Chicago, Bell’s night in Charlotte (North Carolina) and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">View our complete calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-04-23T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Sustainability at Bell's: Celebrating Earth Day every day http://bellsbeer.com/news/94-Sustainability%20at%20Bell%27s%3A%20Celebrating%20Earth%20Day%20every%20day <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/67fa65e311a52bf234d81ccb147ecee3.jpg" alt="BikeWorkshop.jpg" height="351" width="471">We kicked off Earth Week on Monday <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/blog/93-Celebrating_the_Earth__Join_us_in_raising_a_glass_to_the_environment">with a look at how we approach sustainability here at Bell’s.</a> We have also shared some of the many ways in which we practice this philosophy via our social media sites throughout the week.</p> <p>To celebrate Earth Day, here is a more comprehensive look. For more information on all of our sustainability efforts, <a title="Sustainability" href="/about/sustainability/">please visit our Sustainability page</a>.</p> <h2>Land + Agriculture</h2> <p><strong>Our farm in Shepherd, Michigan</strong> uses no-till farming practices that support sur­rounding ecosystems by mini­mizing erosion and the use of water-contaminating fertilizers, while improving soil quality. Barley grown at our farm is used for Bell's seasonals Christmas Ale along with Michigan-grown hops.</p> <p><strong>Harvest Ale:</strong> The malt comes from barley grown in Michigan specifically for Bell’s, much of it also comes from our own farm near Shepherd, while the whole-cone hops were plucked from bines across Michigan.</p> <p><strong>What do we do with the approximately 50,000 pounds of spent grain produced daily from our brewing processes?</strong> A local farmer picks it up twice a day and uses it to feed his dairy cows.</p> <p><strong>We recycle all</strong> cardboard, paper, stretch wrap, green plastic banding, keg caps, wood, electronics, batteries, copper, stainless steel and black iron from our production process.</p> <h2>Water</h2> <p><strong>We consistently monitor water use </strong>with the goal of decreasing water inten­sity. Sub-meters track water use in the brewhouse, cellar and on both the bottling and kegging lines. Engineering and procedural changes have also helped reduce water usage.</p> <p><strong>A new Filler Vacuum Pump design</strong> reduced water that goes to drain from 15 gallons per minute to 2 gpm, saving about 20 million pints of water annually on our filling operation.</p> <h2><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/c5a628dee68fc73c57a23770840f21a1.JPG" alt="BigAssFan.JPG" height="238" width="412">Energy + Air</h2> <p><strong>A modular, extensive sedum green roof</strong> above our conditioning warehouse increases insulation efficiency and extends the life of a waterproofing membrane.</p> <p><strong>Five <a href="http://www.bigassfans.com/">“Big Ass Fans”</a> reduce the need for air conditioning and heating</strong> at our Production Facility and Logistics Center <em>(photo at right)</em>.</p> <p><strong>An 85-ton geothermal field,</strong> roughly the size of half a football field, controls the temperature for our entire production facility.</p> <p><strong>Installation of a new 400 horsepower process boiler with an 84-percent overall efficiency rating</strong> will allow us to conserve and recycle energy for steam production. Steam is used for all process heating, mashing, boiling, keg cleaning and sterilization and more.</p> <p><strong>Light tubes</strong> in our production facility, original brewery, corporate office and logistics center offer daylight harvesting and occupancy controls.</p> <h2><img style="margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black; float: left;" src="/files/cache/ec441e05661aac5735f2399ff6ccaba6.jpg" alt="TShirt.jpg" height="190" width="183">Sponsorships + Wellness + Community</h2> <p><strong>Our involvement in the community we sell our beer in is very important to us.</strong> The Iceman Cometh Challenge in Traverse City, the Bell’s Beer Bayview Mackinac Race and The Gilmore International Keyboard Festival are just a few examples of events we sponsor. We also donate to and sponsor other organizations as well including Glowing Embers Girl Scout Council, St. Jude Children’s Hospital, the Comstock Community Center, K’Aces Disc Golf Club <a title="Donations / Sponsorships" href="/about/sponsorship/">and many others</a>.</p> <p><strong>Our employees also participate in events that give back and promote wellness,</strong> including bike workshops like the one pictured above. Just yesterday, Bell’s employees participated in the <a href="http://www.asa-kal.org/autismwalk2012.htm">Walk about Talk about Autism</a> fundraiser in Portage. Look for them in the <a href="http://www.firstgiving.com/Kazoohumane">Kalamazoo Humane Society Dog Walk</a> May 5 in Vicksburg and the <a href="http://www2.jdrf.org/site/TR?fr_id=1664&amp;pg=entry">Kalamazoo 2012 Walk to Cure Diabetes</a> (just to name a few).</p> <p><strong>With the Adopt a Highway program</strong>, employees of Bell’s Brewery pick up roughly 50 bags of trash along M-96 three times a year (this past Friday being the most recent). To date, our employees have picked up more than 450 bags since Bell’s started sponsoring this program in Comstock.</p> <h2>Pub (Eccentric Café)</h2> <p>Greenware cups, used at <a title="Eccentric Café" href="../../../../../about/sustainability/index.php?cID=52">Bell's Eccentric Cafe</a> and manufactured in Kalamazoo by <a href="http://www.f-k.com/">Fabri-Kal</a>, are made from polylactic acid, a plant starch-based polymer resin. <a href="../../../../../about/sustainability/news/46-150_000_cups_from_Bell___s_Eccentric_Caf___are_headed_to_the_compost_pile_instead_of_a_landfill">The cups are composted with other yard waste from the city of Kalamazoo.</a></p> <p><a title="General Store" href="/index.php?cID=139">The General Store (online and in downtown Kalamazoo) </a>offers a large selection of local products – everything from homebrewing equipment to soap made with Bell’s beer. The Barley Crusher (Allenton), The Brew Hauler (Plainwell) and StirStarter (southwest Michigan) are just a few examples.</p> <p>We compost food waste from the Eccentric Café’s kitchen with sawdust from carpentry contractors and spent grain from our original brewery in downtown Kalamazoo.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-04-22T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Celebrating the Earth: Join us in raising a glass to the environment http://bellsbeer.com/news/93-Celebrating%20the%20Earth%3A%20Join%20us%20in%20raising%20a%20glass%20to%20the%20environment <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/da2ffe027a899a66012d71c58f7d61dc.JPG" alt="InstaLightTube.JPG" height="329" width="462">Earth Day reminds us that we no longer need to rely solely on environmental movements to ensure an abundant future for ourselves and our children.</p> <p>There is much work to be done, and each one of us can play a role in living and working more sustainably not just once a year, but every day.</p> <p>Producing the highest quality beer is our core focus here at Bell's Brewery. To help maintain this, we are constantly identifying, evaluating and refining our approach to sustainability.</p> <p>We know that only a healthy environment will yield the best ingredients. Only the safest and happiest community will work to produce and enjoy our beer. And only a responsible and growing business will continue to innovate and make the best tasting, craft-quality suds.</p> <p>We are celebrating Earth Day by sharing a few of the many ways in which Bell's approaches sustainability here and on our social media sites (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/BellsBreweryInc">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/#%21/BellsBrewery">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/b/109244532904663173500/109244532904663173500/posts">Google+</a>, <a href="http://pinterest.com/BellsBreweryInc/">Pinterest</a> and Instagram) throughout the week. Of course, <a title="Sustainability" href="/about/sustainability/">more information can always be found here.</a></p> <p>Join us in raising a glass to the Earth, may she always yield good beer and healthy patrons!</p> <p><em><strong>Photo caption:</strong> Solar light tubes are located in many of our buildings including our original brewery in Kalamazoo and production facility in Comstock.</em></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-04-16T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Tap takeover in Ann Arbor, rare beers and The Big Tap In Festival http://bellsbeer.com/news/92-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Tap%20takeover%20in%20Ann%20Arbor%2C%20rare%20beers%20and%20The%20Big%20Tap%20In%20Festival <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/c47d3ac7601ab0539998de46d11b6b03.jpg" alt="BlackNoteSmall.jpg" height="352" width="422">Here is a look at Bell’s beer events this week in Michigan, Illinois and Ohio.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>April 17</h3> <p><strong>Tap takeover in Ann Arbor</strong><br> <a href="http://www.conoroneills.com/annarbor/">Conor O’Neill’s</a> in Ann Arbor will feature Oberon, Porter, Kalamazoo Stout, Best Brown Ale, Hell Hath No Fury, Sparkling Ale, a firkin of Two Hearted (tapped at 5:30 p.m.), Debs' Red (tapped at 6.30 p.m.) and the rare and elusive Black Note (tapped at 7:45 p.m.). There will also be "Minute To Win It" inspired pub games and prizes. Call 734-665-2968 for more information.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>April 18</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Tapslam</strong><br><a href="http://www.bavarian-lodge.com">The Bavarian Lodge</a> in Lisle will tap some rare, seasonal, aged and sought after Bell’s beers starting at 4 p.m. The tap list includes Hopslam (6 p.m. tapping), The Oracle, Batch 10,000 and more. Call 630-241-4701 for more information.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>April 21</h3> <p><strong>The Big Tap In Festival, Youngstown</strong><br> Bell's Brewery will be at this craft beer festival between Cleveland and Pittsburgh pouring Amber Ale, Expedition Stout, Hell Hath No Fury … Ale, Java Stout and Lager Beer. For tickets and more information, visit <a href="http://www.bigtapin.com/">www.bigtapin.com</a>.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Join us for Pittsburgh Beer Week, Bell’s Night in Bismarck, a beer dinner at Gun Lake Casino in Wayland (Michigan) and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look at our full calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-04-16T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Harvest Ale tapping, Rhythm and Blues Beer Fest, Oberon and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/91-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Harvest%20Ale%20tapping%2C%20Rhythm%20and%20Blues%20Beer%20Fest%2C%20Oberon%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/46e9174f62a480e0bafb9f7f298fa25c.jpg" alt="Bells_Harvest_Ale_Label750.jpg" height="356" width="436">A look at Bell’s beer events this week in Michigan, North Dakota and Wisconsin.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>April 12</h3> <p><strong>Meet the brewery &amp; Oberon kick-off party</strong><a href="../../../../../events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1816"><br> </a>Join us at<a href="http://www.suburbaninns.com/big-e/%20"> Big E's Sports &amp; Grill</a> in Midland where Two Hearted, Oberon, Oarsman, Pale Ale, Amber Ale, Porter and one specialty draft will be pouring from 6-8 p.m. Bell's is also Big E’s brewery of the quarter. Call 989-794-8585 for more information.<br> <br><strong> Oberon &amp; spring celebration</strong><br> Enjoy beer trivia, specials on Two Hearted and Amber bottles plus Oberon drafts starting at 8 p.m. at Wounded Minnow in Dowagiac.</p> <h3>April 13</h3> <p><strong>13 Bell's for the 13th!</strong><br> Lager of the Lakes, Oarsman, Oberon, Amber Ale, Pale Ale, Debs' Red, Harvest Ale, Porter, Kalamazoo Stout, Third Coast Beer, Two Hearted Ale, Cherry Stout, and Black Note (special tapping time at 7 p.m.) will be flowing at <a href="http://www.baronburger.com/">The Red Baron</a> in Burton starting at 6 p.m. Call 810-744-1310 for more information.</p> <h2>North Dakota</h2> <h3>April 13</h3> <p><strong>Harvest Ale tapping</strong><br> Sample one of the only kegs of this specialty beer to hit North Dakota at 5 p.m. at the <a href="http://www.hoteldonaldson.com">Ho-Do Lounge</a> in Fargo. Call 701-478-1000 for more information.</p> <h2>Wisconsin</h2> <h3>April 13</h3> <p><strong> Rhythm and Blues Beer Fest</strong><br> Sample Oberon, Two Hearted and Amber Ale at this festival/fundraiser sponsored by the Greater Wisconsin Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association from 7-11 p.m. <a href="http://alz.org/gwwi/in_my_community_events.asp">More details can be found here. </a></p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Bell’s Tapslam at The Bavarian Lodge in Lisle (Illinois) and The Big Tap In Festival in Youngstown, Ohio. For more details, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">take a look at our full calendar</a>.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-04-09T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News New store items: Java Stout mug, Two Hearted t-shirt and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/90-New%20store%20items%3A%20Java%20Stout%20mug%2C%20Two%20Hearted%20t-shirt%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/4de67baeb841dce84771af9b1047aaf6.png" alt="JavaStoutMugFront.png" height="176" width="236">Along with plenty of <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/store/brands/Oberon-Ale.html">new Oberon items for 2012</a>, we've also recently added a few other items to the <a title="General Store" href="/index.php?cID=139">General Store</a>'s online selection:</p> <p><a href="http://bellsbeer.com/store/products/Java-Stout-Ceramic-Coffee-Mug.html">• Java Stout ceramic coffee mug</a></p> <p><a href="http://bellsbeer.com/store/products/Hopslam-Ale-Sticker.html">• Hopslam sticker</a></p> <p><a href="http://bellsbeer.com/store/products/Bell%27s-Paper-Coasters-%252d-Stack-of-10.html">• Bell's coasters - stack of 10</a></p> <p><a href="http://bellsbeer.com/store/products/Two-Hearted-Ale-Organic-Short-Sleeve-T%252dshirt.html">• Two Hearted Ale organic t-shirt</a></p> <p><a href="http://bellsbeer.com/store/products/Brewer%27s-Best%C2%AE-Ingredient-Kit-%252d-India-Black-Ale.html">• Brewer's Best Ingredient Kit - India Black Ale</a></p> <p><a href="http://bellsbeer.com/store/products/Bell%27s-Inspired-Brewing-Tin-Tacker.html">• Bell's Inspired Brewing Tin Tacker</a></p> <p><a href="http://bellsbeer.com/store/products/Oberon-Ale-Custom-Bikini.html">• Oberon custom bikini</a></p> <p><a href="http://bellsbeer.com/store/products/Oberon-Ale-Custom-Board-Shorts.html">• Oberon custom board shorts</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-04-06T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: March Madness, Oberon and baseball http://bellsbeer.com/news/89-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20March%20Madness%2C%20Oberon%20and%20baseball <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/4112/8386/7072/OberonLabel.small.crush.png" alt="OberonLabel.tif.png" height="348" width="353">Here is a look at Bell’s beer events this week in Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Minnesota and North Carolina.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>All Bell’s, All month long<a href="http://www.cornerwinebar.com/"></a></h3> <p><a href="http://www.cornerwinebar.com/">The Corner Wine Bar</a> in Indianapolis will feature 6 Bell’s beers on tap for the month of April. Classics such as Amber, Oberon and Two Hearted will be standards in the lineup, while others will make appearances throughout the month (Debs' Red Ale, Harvest Ale, Sparkling Ale, Hell Hath No Fury ... Ale and Special Double Cream Stout). Call 317-255-5159 for more information.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>April 2</h3> <p><strong>March Madness at <a href="http://harveyskazoo.com/">Harvey's on the Mall</a></strong><br>Catch the National Championship at Harvey’s new Upper Deck Sports Lounge and enjoy plenty of Bell’s beers as well as games and giveaways. Call 269-492-7506 for more information.</p> <h3>April 5</h3> <p><strong>Opening Day celebration</strong><br>Celebrate at <a href="http://www.slowsbarbq.com/">Slows Bar BQ</a> in Detroit with Black Note (tapped at 10 a.m.), Oberon, Oarsman, a firkin of Two Hearted, Lager of the Lakes and Sparkling Ale. A firkin of Hopslam, Oatmeal Stout, Quinnanan Falls Special Lager, Smoked Vienna Lager, Batch 10,000, Hell Hath No Fury ... Ale, Debs' Red, Batch 9,000 and Harvest Ale will also be tapped throughout the day.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>April 4</h3> <p><strong> Play ball, drink beer: Celebrate everything Bell's in Cincinnati </strong><br> Join us at <a href="http://friescafe.com/">Fries Cafe</a> starting at 2 p.m. as we celebrate the start of baseball season with Oberon, Black Note, Sparkling Ale, Two Hearted, Hell Hath No Fury, Amber, Debs' Red, Porter, Lager and quite a few others, including a firkin of Hopslam. Call 513-281-9002 for more information.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>April 4</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party</strong><br> Celebrate Oberon's release with pint specials, raffles and giveaways from 6-9 p.m. at <a href="http://www.3squaresrestaurant.com">3 Squares</a> in Maple Grove. Call 763-425-3330 for more information.</p> <h3>April 6</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party &nbsp;</strong><br> Celebrate Oberon's release with pint specials, raffles and giveaways at <a href="http://bouldertaphouse.com/">Boulder Tap House</a> in St. Cloud from 5-8 p.m. Call 320-230-0100 for more information.</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>April 4</h3> <p><strong> Oberon kick-off party</strong><br> Celebrate this year’s Oberon release from 5-10 p.m. at <a href="http://monkpub.com/">Thirsty Monk</a> South in Asheville. Call 828-505-4564 for more information.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Meet the brewery and Oberon kick-off party in Midland, Michigan, 13 Bell’s beers for April 13 (also in Michigan) and a Harvest Ale tapping in North Dakota. For more, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">check out our full calendar here</a>.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-04-02T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell’s Oberon will debut in 12-packs March 26; Amber Ale 12-packs will follow this summer http://bellsbeer.com/news/88-Bell%E2%80%99s%20Oberon%20will%20debut%20in%2012-packs%20March%2026%3B%20%20Amber%20Ale%2012-packs%20will%20follow%20this%20summer <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/b2400c2c88af093d8d36cb3564ed95f4.jpg" alt="Oberon12Poster.jpg" height="499" width="404">Oberon release day just got 12 times better.</p> <p>On Monday (March 26), 12-packs of Bell’s Oberon Ale will be available along with six-packs and draft throughout Michigan.</p> <p>Bell’s will continue to roll out Oberon 12-packs to other states Bell’s distributes to beginning in the northwest (Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, Missouri and Arizona) followed by those in the southeast (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Ohio, Washington DC and Pennsylvania) soon after. Specific dates will be announced soon.</p> <p>&nbsp;“We are excited and thrilled to be able to offer this additional packaging option to our customers,” said Laura Bell, Marketing Director for Bell’s Brewery, Inc.</p> <p>“We believe our customers will love the convenience and enjoy it twice as much as a six-pack.”</p> <p>Bell’s year round flagship beer, Amber Ale, will also be available in 12-packs later this summer.</p> <p>The addition of a 12-pack bottling line at Bell’s production facility in Comstock, Mich. is part of Bell’s latest major renovation and expansion project&nbsp; that will also add a new 200-barrel brewhouse as well as fourteen 400-barrel fermenters. The new brewery is expected to open in May.</p> <p>Oberon Ale is Bell’s most popular seasonal offering and released annually in March, It is available through September in a majority of the 18 states (plus Puerto Rico and Washington DC) Bell’s distributes to. Oberon is available year round in Puerto Rico, Florida, Arizona and parts of southern Alabama.</p> <p>Oberon mini-kegs will be released later this year as well. This year’s design features a photo taken on the shore of Lake Michigan in Ludington, Mich.</p> <p>To see if a retail location, bar or restaurant near you serves Oberon, <a title="Beer Finder" href="/index.php?cID=236">check our new and improved Beer Finder</a>.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-03-23T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News 2012 Oberon event roundup: Midnight tappings, release parties and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/87-2012%20Oberon%20event%20roundup%3A%20Midnight%20tappings%2C%20release%20parties%20and%20more <p><a title="Oberon 2012 by Bell's Brewery, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/bellsbreweryinc/6797699108/"><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7044/6797699108_4b7a5caec5.jpg" alt="Oberon 2012" width="397" height="500"></a></p> <p>Here is a list of some Oberon release events.</p> <h2>Alabama</h2> <h3>March 26</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.ontapsportscafe.com/" target="_blank">On Tap Sports Cafe</a> (Galleria), Birmingham. Noon. Call 205-988-3203 for more information.</p> <h2>Georgia</h2> <h3>March 26</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://trappezepub.com/" target="_blank">Trappeze Pub</a>, Athens at noon. Call <a href="tel:706-543-8997" target="_blank">706-543-8997</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.theporterbeerbar.com/" target="_blank">The Porter Beer Bar</a>, Atlanta. Noon. Call <a href="tel:404-223-0393" target="_blank">404-223-0393</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.ormsbysatlanta.com/" target="_blank">Ormsby's</a>, Atlanta. 5 p.m. Call <a href="tel:404-968-2033" target="_blank">404-968-2033</a> for more information.</p> <h3>March 27</h3> <p><strong>Oberon patio party:</strong> <a href="http://www.cypressbar.com/" target="_blank">Cypress Street Pint &amp; Plate</a>, Atlanta at 5 p.m. Oberon smoked BBQ wings. Call <a href="tel:404-815-9243" target="_blank">404-815-9243</a> for more information.</p> <h3>March 28</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong><a href="http://www.craftydraught.com/" target="_blank"> Crafty Draught,</a> Cumming. 1 p.m. Call <a href="tel:770-887-3153" target="_blank">770-887-3153</a> for more information.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>March 26</h3> <p><strong>Annual Oberon kick-off party:</strong> Join us at<a href="http://www.sheffieldschicago.com/" target="_blank"> Sheffield’s</a> in Chicago for a raffle, specialty drafts and more. Call <a href="tel:773-281-4989" target="_blank">773-281-4989</a> for more information.</p> <h3>March 27</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> Binny’s Beverage Depot, South Loop location from 6-8 p.m. Reservations are required ($5 cover includes your first pour of Oberon). Consecrator Doppelbock, Hopslam Ale and Two Hearted Ale will also be available. Call <a href="tel:312-768-4400" target="_blank">312-768-4400</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party: </strong><a href="http://www.chicagost.com/" target="_blank">Chicago Street Pub</a>, Joliet. Call <a href="tel:815-727-7171" target="_blank">815-727-7171</a> for more information.</p> <h3>March 28</h3> <p><strong>Oberon party:</strong> <a href="http://www.thebeerbistro.com/" target="_blank">Beer Bistro</a>, Chicago from 7-10 p.m. Call <a href="tel:312-433-0013" target="_blank">312-433-0013</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.tribesalehouse.com/" target="_blank">Tribes Alehouse</a>, Mokena. Call <a href="tel:815-%20464-0248" target="_blank">815- 464-0248</a> for more information.</p> <h3>March 29</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.crane-alley.com/" target="_blank">Crane Alley</a> in Urbana will pair Oberon with a very special guest – a Hopslam firkin. &nbsp;Event starts at 6 p.m. and the firkin will be tapped at 8 p.m. Golden Rye will also be on tap. Call <a href="tel:217-384-7526" target="_blank">217-384-7526</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong><a href="http://www.tommynevins.com/" target="_blank"> Tommy Nevins</a>, Evanston. Call <a href="tel:847-869-0450" target="_blank">847-869-0450</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> The Library, Joilet area.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.stonecity.com/" target="_blank">Stone City</a>, Chicago. Call <a href="tel:773-533-9806" target="_blank">773-533-9806</a> for more information.</p> <h3>March 30</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <cite>3 Corners Grill &amp; Tap, Lemont. Call </cite><a href="tel:630-257-7780" target="_blank">630-257-7780</a> for more information.<cite></cite></p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <cite>Red Cent Pub &amp; Grill, Morris. Call </cite><a href="tel:815-942-2210" target="_blank">815-942-2210</a> for more information.</p> <h3>March 31</h3> <p><strong>Chicago Beer Festival:</strong> Oberon will make an appearance at this inaugural event in Chicago. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1765" target="_blank">Go here for more information</a>.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.bigfishgrille.net/" target="_blank">Big Fish</a>, Wilmington. Call <a href="tel:815-476-9331" target="_blank">815-476-9331</a> for more information.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>March 25</h3> <p><strong>Midnight Oberon tapping:</strong> Arrive early for the free comedy, stay later for the Oberon at <a href="http://www.thesinkingship.com/" target="_blank">The Sinking Ship</a> in Indianapolis. Call <a href="tel:317-920-7999" target="_blank">317-920-7999</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight Oberon tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.orourkespubhouse.com/" target="_blank">O’Rourke’s Public House</a> in South Bend. Call <a href="tel:574-251-0355" target="_blank">574-251-0355</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight Sun Oberon tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.yogis.com/" target="_blank">Yogi’s</a>, Bloomington. Call <a href="tel:812-323-9644" target="_blank">812-323-9644</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight tapping:</strong> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/barlouiemishawaka">Bar Louie Mishawaka</a>, Mishawaka. Call <span class="fbProfileBylineFragment"><span class="fbProfileBylineLabel">574-277-9100 for more information.<br></span></span></p> <h3>March 26</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://eatatrockys.com/" target="_blank">Rocky’s Sub</a> Pub in Jeffersonville.</p> <p><strong>Oberon Release Party:</strong> <a href="http://www.sonkapub.com/" target="_blank">Sonka Pub</a>, Terre Haute. Call <a href="tel:812-234-8802" target="_blank">812-234-8802</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon Release Party:</strong> <a href="http://www.chathamtap.com/" target="_blank">Chatham Tap</a>, Fishers. 6 p.m. Call <a href="tel:317-845-1090" target="_blank">317-845-1090</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon Release Party:</strong> Heorot Pub and Draught House, Muncie. 6 p.m. Call <a href="tel:765-287-0173" target="_blank">765-287-0173</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon Release Party:</strong> <a href="http://www.ficklepeach.com/" target="_blank">The Fickle Peach</a>, Muncie. 3 p.m. Call <a href="tel:765-282-5211" target="_blank">765-282-5211</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon Release Party:</strong> <a>Fox and Hound,</a> Carmel. 6 p.m. Call <a href="tel:317-844-0075" target="_blank">317-844-0075</a> for more information</p> <h3>March 28</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong><a href="http://www.stackedpickle.com/" target="_blank"> The Stacked Pickle</a> in Carmel.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party: </strong><a href="http://thegrillatgeist.com/" target="_blank">The Grill 1</a>, Indianapolis.&nbsp; 6-8 p.m. Call <a href="tel:317-842-2087" target="_blank">317-842-2087</a> for more information.</p> <h3>April</h3> <p>Oberon will be among the featured Bell’s beers on tap all month at <a href="http://www.cornerwinebar.com/" target="_blank">The Corner Wine Bar</a> in Indianapolis. For more details, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1776" target="_blank">go here.</a></p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>March 26</h3> <p><strong>Oberon tapping:</strong> <a href="http://theenglishpub.com/" target="_blank">Cock and Bull English Pub</a>, Covington. Call <a href="tel:859-%20581-4253" target="_blank">859- 581-4253</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.cheznora.com/" target="_blank">Chez Nora</a>, Covington. Call <a href="tel:859-491-8027" target="_blank">859-491-8027</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon tapping:</strong>&nbsp; <a href="http://www.newportpizzacompany.com/" target="_blank">Newport Pizza</a>, Newport. Call <a href="tel:859-261-4900" target="_blank">859-261-4900</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.keystonebar.com/" target="_blank">Keystone Bar &amp; Grill,</a> Covington. Call <a href="tel:859-261-6777" target="_blank">859-261-6777</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.mellowmushroom.com/" target="_blank">Mellow Mushroom</a>, Lexington. Call <a href="tel:859-281-6111" target="_blank">859-281-6111</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon tapping:</strong> <a href="http://www.brothersbar.com/" target="_blank">Brothers Bar &amp; Grill,</a> Newport. Call <a href="tel:859-291-2767" target="_blank">859-291-2767</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon tapping: </strong><a href="http://www.thebeertrappe.com/" target="_blank">The Beer Trappe</a>, Lexington. Call <a href="tel:859-309-0911" target="_blank">859-309-0911</a> for more information.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>March 25-26</h3> <p><strong>Two day Oberon release party:</strong> Funktion along with special guest Garrett Borns will perform at this special release party at The Globe Theater underneath Shakespeare’s Pub in downtown Kalamazoo. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1745" target="_blank">For more details, go here.</a></p> <h3>March 25</h3> <p><strong>Midnight tapping:</strong> Union Street Station in Traverse City, 10 p.m. – 1 a.m. Call <a href="tel:231-941-1930" target="_blank">231-941-1930</a> for more information. You can also find them on Facebook.</p> <p><strong>Midnight Oberon release party/Tap takeover:</strong> Laura Bell will make a special appearance at<strong> Crunchy’s</strong> in East Lansing. For more details, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1770" target="_blank">go here.</a></p> <p><strong>Midnight Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.gunlakecasino.com/" target="_blank">Gun Lake Casino</a> in Wayland. Call <a href="tel:269-792-7777" target="_blank">269-792-7777</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.northvillesportsden.com/" target="_blank">Northville Sports Den</a> in Northville. Call <a href="tel:248-347-5993" target="_blank">248-347-5993</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight Oberon release party:</strong><a href="http://silverbeachpizza.com/" target="_blank"> Silver Beach Pizza</a> in St. Joseph starting at 9 p.m. Call <br> <a href="tel:269-983-4743" target="_blank">269-983-4743</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.ashleys.com/" target="_blank">Ashley’s</a> in Ann Arbor will crown a king or queen of Oberon. For complete details <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1796" target="_blank">go here</a> or call <a href="tel:734-996-9191" target="_blank">734-996-9191</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.oldburdicks.com/" target="_blank">Old Burdick’s</a> Downtown in Kalamazoo. Call <a href="tel:269-343-0032" target="_blank">269-343-0032</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight Oberon release parties: </strong>Two <a href="http://www.mainstpub.com/" target="_blank">Main St. Pub</a> locations will celebrate with a midnight tapping – 7509 S. Westnedge Ave. in Portage and 4514 W. Main St. in Kalamazoo.</p> <p><strong>Midnight Oberon release party: </strong><a href="http://legendssportsbar2paws.com/" target="_blank">Legends</a> Sports Bar &amp; Grille in Paw Paw. Call <a href="tel:269-415-0123" target="_blank">269-415-0123</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight release party: </strong><a href="http://fraserspubaa.com/" target="_blank">Fraser’s Pub</a> in Ann Arbor. Call <a href="tel:734-665-1955" target="_blank">734-665-1955</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.conoroneills.com/annarbor/" target="_blank">Conor O’Neil’s </a>in Ann Arbor starting at 9:30 p.m. $5 pints, prizes and a toast for the first pint. Call <a href="tel:734-665-2968" target="_blank">734-665-2968</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight release party:</strong><a href="http://www.sidetrackbarandgrill.com/" target="_blank"> Sidetrack Bar and Grill</a> in Ypsilanti. Call <a href="tel:734-483-1490" target="_blank">734-483-1490</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.theoakcafe.com/" target="_blank">Oak Café</a> in Wyandotte. Call <a href="tel:734-283-8380" target="_blank">734-283-8380</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight release party:</strong> Rock on Third in Royal Oak. Call <a href="tel:248-542-7625" target="_blank">248-542-7625</a> for more information or find them on Facebook.</p> <p><strong>Midnight release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.buffalowildwings.com/" target="_blank">Buffalo Wild Wings</a> in Rochester Hills. Games, raffle and prizes. Call <a href="tel:248-651-3999" target="_blank">248-651-3999</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight release party: </strong><a href="http://www.uptowngrille.com/" target="_blank">Uptown Grille,</a> Commerce Twp. Call <a href="tel:248-960-3344" target="_blank">248-960-3344</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight release party:</strong> <a href="http://shamrockutica.com/" target="_blank">Shamrock Irish Pub</a>, Utica. Call <a href="tel:586-731-6886" target="_blank">586-731-6886</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.redoxtavern.com/" target="_blank">Red Ox</a>, Utica. Call <a href="tel:586-726-7070" target="_blank">586-726-7070</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.buffalowildwings.com/" target="_blank">Buffalo Wild Wings</a>, Washington Township. Call <a href="tel:586-677-9932" target="_blank">586-677-9932</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight release party: </strong><a href="http://hermannsotg.com/" target="_blank">Hermann’s Old Town Grille</a>, Plymouth. Call <a href="tel:734-451-1213" target="_blank">734-451-1213</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight release party:</strong> <a href="http://foxandhound.com/locations/troy.aspx" target="_blank">Bailey’s Sports Grille</a> in Troy starting at 9:30 p.m. $5 pints, giveaways. Call <a href="tel:248-%20435-3044" target="_blank">248- 435-3044</a> for more information.&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Midnight release party:</strong><a href="http://www.bobberdownbarandgrille.com/Bobber%20Down%20Home%20Page.html" target="_blank"> Bobber Down Bar and Grille</a>, Whitmore Lake. Pint specials, prizes. Call 734-449-1500for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.ashleys.com/" target="_blank">Ashley’s</a> Westland, 9:30 p.m. Oberon specials, trivia and prizes. Call <a href="tel:734-525-1667" target="_blank">734-525-1667</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight release party: </strong><a href="http://www.mainstpub.com/" target="_blank">Main St. Pub</a> in Allendale. Call <a href="tel:616-895-1234" target="_blank">616-895-1234</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight release party:</strong><a href="http://www.monellis.com/" target="_blank"> Monelli’s</a>, Wyoming. &nbsp;Call <a href="tel:616-530-9700" target="_blank">616-530-9700</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Midnight release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.littlerivercasino.com/" target="_blank">Little River Casino &amp; Resort</a>, Manistee. Call <a href="tel:888-568-2244" target="_blank">888-568-2244</a> for more information.</p> <h3>March 26</h3> <p><strong>All day Oberon celebration:</strong> <a href="http://www.7monkstap.com/" target="_blank">7 Monks Taproom</a> in Traverse City. Call <a href="tel:231-421-8410" target="_blank">231-421-8410</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://logansalley.com/" target="_blank">Logan’s Alley</a> in Grand Rapids will tap their first keg at 7 a.m. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1769" target="_blank">Go here for more information.</a></p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.woodyspb.com/" target="_blank">Woody’s Press Box</a> in Wyoming will feature special prices on Oberon starting at 7 a.m. Call <a href="tel:616-530-2400" target="_blank">616-530-2400</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://mittenbar.com/" target="_blank">The Mitten Bar</a>, Ludington. Call <a href="tel:231-843-7616" target="_blank">231-843-7616</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.shoresinn.com/" target="_blank">Shores Inn</a>, St. Clair Shores. $3 pints from 8-10 p.m. Call <a href="tel:586-773-8940" target="_blank">586-773-8940</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>All day Oberon celebration: </strong><a href="http://www.littlejoesrestaurant.com/home.html" target="_blank">Little Joe’s Restaurant,</a> Grand Blanc. Call <a href="tel:810-694-8391" target="_blank">810-694-8391</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon kick-off party:</strong> <a href="http://www.mackinacgrille.com/" target="_blank">Mackinac Grille Restaurant &amp; Waterfront Patio Bar</a> from 4-6 p.m. in St. Ignace.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release day pub crawl: </strong>Informal event will start at Old Town Tavern in Ann Arbor around 1 &nbsp;p.m. Other scheduled stops include Arena, Bar Louie, Sava’s, Ashley’s and Cottage Inn.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> Foran's Grand Trunk Pub, Detroit at 4:30 p.m. Prizes. Call <a href="tel:313-961-3043" target="_blank">313-961-3043</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.slowsbarbq.com/" target="_blank">Slows Bar BQ</a>, Detroit. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. &amp; 4-6 p.m. &nbsp;Call <a href="tel:313-962-9828" target="_blank">313-962-9828</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.bigbearlodge.org/" target="_blank">Big Bear Lodge</a>, Brownstown Township. 7- 9 p.m. Oberon specials. Call <a href="tel:734-782-6600" target="_blank">734-782-6600</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party: </strong><a href="http://www.beltlinebar.com/" target="_blank">Beltline Bar</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-245-0494" target="_blank">616-245-0494</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/blog/%20http://cabanatresamigos.com" target="_blank">Three Amigo’s</a>, 60<sup>th St., </sup>Kentwood. Call <a href="tel:616-281-6891" target="_blank">616-281-6891</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.buffalowildwings.com/" target="_blank">Buffalo Wild Wings</a>, Muskegon. Call <a href="tel:231-799-2999" target="_blank">231-799-2999</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party: </strong>750 Grill, Muskegon. &nbsp;Call <a href="tel:231-744-7507" target="_blank">231-744-7507</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party: </strong><a href="http://www.hobostavern.com/" target="_blank">Hobo’s Tavern</a>, Muskegon. Call <a href="tel:231-719-0247" target="_blank">231-719-0247</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party: </strong><a href="http://www.leftyandromos.com/" target="_blank">Lefty &amp; Romo’s</a> Call <a href="tel:231-744-3222" target="_blank">231-744-3222</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong>&nbsp; <a href="http://www.mainstreetpubandeatery.com/" target="_blank">Main St. Pub</a>, Muskegon Call <a href="tel:231-744-7139" target="_blank">231-744-7139</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:<a href="http://bellsbeer.com/blog/www.jgardellastavern.com/" target="_blank"> </a></strong><a href="http://www.jgardellastavern.com/" target="_blank">J Gardellas Tavern,</a> Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-459-8824" target="_blank">616-459-8824</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://onetrick.biz/home.html" target="_blank">One Trick Pony,</a> Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-235-7669" target="_blank">616-235-7669</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://tavernonthesq.com/" target="_blank">Tavern on the Square</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-456-7673" target="_blank">616-456-7673</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party: </strong><a href="http://www.cottagebar.biz/" target="_blank">Cottage Bar,</a> Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-454-9088" target="_blank">616-454-9088</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party: </strong><a href="http://www.hopcatgr.com/" target="_blank">Hopcat</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-451-4677" target="_blank">616-451-4677</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> Anchor Bar, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-774-7177" target="_blank">616-774-7177</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://otoolesgr.com/" target="_blank">O’Tooles</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-742-6095" target="_blank">616-742-6095</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party: </strong><a href="http://www.twentyfivegr.com/" target="_blank">25 Kitchen Bar</a>, Grand Rapids. Call XXXX for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.derbystation.com/" target="_blank">The Derby Station</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-301-3236" target="_blank">616-301-3236</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party: </strong><a href="http://www.billyslounge.com/" target="_blank">Billy’s</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-459-5757" target="_blank">616-459-5757</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release parties:</strong> <a href="http://www.buffalowildwings.com/" target="_blank">Buffalo Wild Wings</a>, 49 St. location, Wyoming.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.zsbar.com/" target="_blank">Z’s Bar</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-454-3141" target="_blank">616-454-3141</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://mulligans-pub.com/" target="_blank">Mulligan’s,</a> Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-451-0775" target="_blank">616-451-0775</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party: </strong><a href="http://www.rockwellsrepublic.com/" target="_blank">Republic Café/Rockwell,</a> Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-551-3563" target="_blank">616-551-3563</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.grandwoodslounge.com/" target="_blank">Grand Woods</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-451-4300" target="_blank">616-451-4300</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://mcfaddensgrandrapids.com/" target="_blank">McFadden’s</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-454-9105" target="_blank">616-454-9105</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong><a href="http://jdreardons.com/" target="_blank"> J.D. Reardon’s</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-%20454-8590" target="_blank">616- 454-8590</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party: </strong><a href="http://www.theestablishmentgr.com/" target="_blank">The Establishment</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-774-5969" target="_blank">616-774-5969</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong><a href="http://baggerdaves.com/" target="_blank">Bagger Dave’s</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-977-4349" target="_blank">616-977-4349</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong><a href="http://www.oldchicago.com/" target="_blank">Old Chicago,</a> Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-940-1111" target="_blank">616-940-1111</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong><a href="http://thelube.com/Kentwood_MI/index.cfm" target="_blank">Quaker Steak and Lube</a>, Kentwood. Call <a href="tel:616-285-9464" target="_blank">616-285-9464</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong><a href="http://spectrumlanes.com/" target="_blank">Spectrum Lanes</a>, Wyoming. Call <a href="tel:616-530-2400" target="_blank">616-530-2400</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release parties:</strong> <a href="http://www.uccellos.com/" target="_blank">Uccello’s</a> - Beltline, Grandville, Standale and Caledonia locations in Grand Rapids.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong>Joey’s, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-454-8455" target="_blank">616-454-8455</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong>Millcreek, Comstock Park. Call <a href="tel:616-784-3806" target="_blank">616-784-3806</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong><a href="http://www.thegilmorecollection.com/nickfinks.php" target="_blank">Nick Finks</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-784-9886" target="_blank">616-784-9886</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong><a href="http://vitalessportsbar.com/" target="_blank">Vitale’s Sports Lounge</a>, Comstock Park. &nbsp;Call <a href="tel:616-784-5011" target="_blank">616-784-5011</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong><a href="http://www.theholidaybargr.com/index.php" target="_blank">Holiday Bar</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-456-9058" target="_blank">616-456-9058</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong><a href="http://www.idine.com/details.htm?search=true&amp;merchantId=92608" target="_blank">Bob’s Bar</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-774-0512" target="_blank">616-774-0512</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong>Birch Lodge, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-458-1918" target="_blank">616-458-1918</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong>Farah’s, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-214-8413" target="_blank">616-214-8413</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party: </strong>Dukes, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-774-9388" target="_blank">616-774-9388</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong><a href="http://www.elbowroomgr.net/" target="_blank">The Elbow Room</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-454-6666" target="_blank">616-454-6666</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong><a href="http://www.monarchsclub.net/" target="_blank">Monarch’s Club</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-233-9799" target="_blank">616-233-9799</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong><a href="http://www.rockysbarngrill.com/index.htm" target="_blank">Rocky’s Bar and Grill</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-356-2346" target="_blank">616-356-2346</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong><a href="http://www.twisted-rooster.com/" target="_blank">Twisted Rooster</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-301-8171" target="_blank">616-301-8171</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong><a href="http://www.florentinespizza.com/" target="_blank">Florentine’s Pizza</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-455-2230" target="_blank">616-455-2230</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong>Bombay Cuisine and The Queen’s Pub, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-456-7055" target="_blank">616-456-7055</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong>Hub’s, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-453-3571" target="_blank">616-453-3571</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong><a href="http://www.branns.com/" target="_blank">Brann’s</a> on Leonard St, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-454-9368" target="_blank">616-454-9368</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong>Marine Tap Room, Muskegon. Call <a href="tel:231-755-5581" target="_blank">231-755-5581</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong>Michael's Bar &amp; Grille, Ludington. Call <a href="tel:231-845-7411" target="_blank">231-845-7411</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong><a href="http://sportsmansirishpub.com/" target="_blank">Sportsman's Restaurant,</a> Ludington. Call <a href="tel:231-843-2138" target="_blank">231-843-2138</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:&nbsp; </strong>Sand Bar, Ludington. Call <a href="tel:231-843-8829" target="_blank">231-843-8829</a> for more information.</p> <h3>March 27</h3> <p><strong>All day celebration:</strong> <a href="http://cityparkgrill.com/" target="_blank">City Park Grill</a> in <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?q=432+East+Lake+Street+++Petoskey,+MI.+49770-2439&amp;hl=en&amp;geocode=+&amp;hnear=432+E+Lake+St,+Petoskey,+Michigan+49770&amp;t=m&amp;z=17&amp;vpsrc=0&amp;source=gplus-ogsb" target="_blank">Petoskey</a>. Call <a href="tel:231-347-0101" target="_blank">231-347-0101</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong><a href="http://www.8thstreetgrille.com/" target="_blank"> Eighth Street Grill</a>, Holland. Call <a href="tel:616-392-5888" target="_blank">616-392-5888</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party: </strong><a href="http://ittybittybar.com/" target="_blank">Itty Bitty Bar</a>, Holland. Call <a href="tel:616-399-5730" target="_blank">616-399-5730</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.branns.com/" target="_blank">Brann’s</a> - Caledonia and Wyoming (Division Ave.) locations</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.frankievs.com/" target="_blank">Frankie V’s</a>, Wyoming. Call <a href="tel:616-532-8998" target="_blank">616-532-8998</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.peppinospizza.com/" target="_blank">Peppino</a>’s – Allendale and South-Kentwood locations.</p> <h3>March 28</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.buffalobbqwings.com/" target="_blank">Buffalo Barbeque Wings,</a> Jackson. 7 p.m. Oberon specials and prizes. Call <a href="tel:517-782-4344" target="_blank">517-782-4344</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.thegilmorecollection.com/nickfinks.php" target="_blank">Bite</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-451-8000" target="_blank">616-451-8000</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.thebullsheadtavern.com/" target="_blank">Bull’s Head Tavern</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-454-3580" target="_blank">616-454-3580</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party: </strong><a href="http://www.theoriginalvitales.com/" target="_blank">Vitale’s Sports Lounge </a>on &nbsp;Leonard St., Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-458-8368" target="_blank">616-458-8368</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong><a href="http://www.greatlakesshippingcompany.com/" target="_blank"> Great Lakes Shipping Co.</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-949-9440" target="_blank">616-949-9440</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong><a href="http://www.mojospianobar.com/" target="_blank"> Mojo’s</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-776-9000" target="_blank">616-776-9000</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://sectionlive.com/" target="_blank">The Intersection</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-451-8232" target="_blank">616-451-8232</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.branns.com/" target="_blank">Brann’s Cascade,</a> Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-285-7800" target="_blank">616-285-7800</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> Cascade Sports Grill, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-974-3338" target="_blank">616-974-3338</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.chubbysbarandgrill.com/" target="_blank">Chubby’s</a>, Wyoming. Call <a href="tel:616-534-5161" target="_blank">616-534-5161</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.magoos-gr.com/" target="_blank">Magoo’s,</a> Wyoming. Call <a href="tel:616-538-0450" target="_blank">616-538-0450</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party: </strong><a href="http://www.tgifridays.com/" target="_blank">TGI Fridays</a>, off 28<sup>th</sup> St., Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-957-3911" target="_blank">616-957-3911</a> for more information.</p> <h3>March 29</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release celebration and Bell’s beer dinner: </strong>5 O'clock Sports Bar &amp; Restaurant in Stevensville. Call <a href="tel:269-429-3273" target="_blank">269-429-3273</a> for reservations or more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.evansstreetstation.com/" target="_blank">Evans Street Station,</a> Tecumseh. 4 p.m. Games and prizes. Call <a href="tel:517-424-5555" target="_blank">517-424-5555</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon party weekend:</strong> <a href="http://ohbarjackson.com/" target="_blank">Oh Bar,</a> Jackson. Call <a href="tel:517-962-4457" target="_blank">517-962-4457</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.84east.com/" target="_blank">84 East</a>, Holland. Call <a href="tel:616-396-8484" target="_blank">616-396-8484</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong><a href="http://vitaleszeeland.com/" target="_blank">Vitale’s</a>, Zeeland. Call <a href="tel:616-772-5900" target="_blank">616-772-5900</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.meanwhilebar.com/" target="_blank">Meanwhile Bar</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-233-1679" target="_blank">616-233-1679</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.tgifridays.com/" target="_blank">TGI Fridays</a>, downtown and Alpine Ave. locations in Grand Rapids.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://stellasgr.com/" target="_blank">Stella’s</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-742-4444" target="_blank">616-742-4444</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://thesazeraclounge.com/" target="_blank">Sazerac Lounge</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-451-0010" target="_blank">616-451-0010</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party</strong>: <a href="http://www.gippersgr.com/" target="_blank">Gippers Bar and Restaurant</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-551-0841" target="_blank">616-551-0841</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party: </strong><a href="http://www.hooters.com/" target="_blank">Hooters</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-977-9464" target="_blank">616-977-9464</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.twistedbull.net/" target="_blank">Twisted Bull</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:616-245-0531" target="_blank">616-245-0531</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.pintsandquarts.com/" target="_blank">Pints &amp; Quarts,</a> Muskegon. Call <a href="tel:231-830-9889" target="_blank">231-830-9889</a> for more information.</p> <h3>March 30</h3> <p><strong>Oberon celebration, tasting:</strong> <a href="http://www.serafinospartystore.com/" target="_blank">Serafino’s </a>in Richland from 4-6 p.m. Call <a href="tel:269-629-4721" target="_blank">269-629-4721</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.hamlinpubs.com/" target="_blank">Hamlin Pub</a> in Rochester Hills. Call <a href="tel:248-656-7700" target="_blank">248-656-7700</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong><a href="http://www.branns.com/" target="_blank"> Brann’s</a>, Grandville. Call <a href="tel:616-531-6210" target="_blank">616-531-6210</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.mainstpub.com/" target="_blank">Main St. Pub</a> – 28<sup>th</sup> St. , Wyoming. Call <a href="tel:616-532-2510" target="_blank">616-532-2510</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> TGI Friday’s, Grandville. Call <a href="tel:616-257-8801" target="_blank">616-257-8801</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party: </strong><a href="http://www.holidayinn.com/" target="_blank">Holiday Inn</a>, Grand Rapids. Call <a href="tel:800-315-2621" target="_blank">800-315-2621</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> Lakeshore Tavern, Muskegon. Call <a href="tel:231-759-7604" target="_blank">231-759-7604</a> for more information.</p> <h3>March 31</h3> <p><strong>Oberon &amp; Bell's Brewery beer tasting:</strong> <a href="http://www.springbrookinn.com/" target="_blank">Springbrook Inn</a> in Prudenville from 3-6 p.m. Call <a href="tel:989-366-6347" target="_blank">989-366-6347</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> Dan’s Clinton Tavern, Clinton. Prizes. Call <a href="tel:517-%20456-7940" target="_blank">517- 456-7940</a> for more information. Find them on Facebook.</p> <h3>April 12</h3> <p><strong>Meet the brewery &amp; Oberon kick-off party: </strong><a href="http://www.suburbaninns.com/big-e/" target="_blank">Big E's Sports &amp; Grill</a>, Midland. Bell’s is the brewery of the quarter at Big E’s. They are celebrating with multiple events plus bottle and draft specials. Call <a href="tel:989-794-8585" target="_blank">989-794-8585</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://hamptoninn.hilton.com/en/hp/hotels/index.jhtml?ctyhocn=HLDMIHX" target="_blank">Hampton Inn</a>, Holland. Call <a href="tel:616-399-8500" target="_blank">616-399-8500</a> for more information.</p> <h3>Minnesota</h3> <h3>March 26</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://bryantlakebowl.com/" target="_blank">Bryant Lake Bowl</a>, Minneapolis at 8 p.m. Pint specials, raffles and giveaways. Call <a href="tel:612-825-3737" target="_blank">612-825-3737</a> for more information.</p> <h3><strong>March 30</strong></h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party: </strong><a href="http://www.patrickson3rdstpeter.com/" target="_blank">Patrick’s on Third</a> in St. Peter. Call <a href="tel:507-931-9051" target="_blank">507-931-9051</a> for more information.</p> <h3>April 4</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.3squaresrestaurant.com/" target="_blank">3 Squares</a> in Maple Grove from 6-9 p.m. Pint specials, raffles and giveaways. Call <a href="tel:763-425-3330" target="_blank">763-425-3330</a>&nbsp; for more information.</p> <h3>April 6</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://bouldertaphouse.com/" target="_blank">Boulder Tap House</a>, St. Cloud from 5-8 p.m. Pint specials, raffles and giveaways. Call <a href="tel:320-230-0100" target="_blank">320-230-0100</a> for more information.</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>March 26</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.thetaverndurham.com/" target="_blank">The Tavern</a> in Durham from 3-9 p.m. Pint glass giveaway (while supplies last). Call <a href="tel:919-286-7665" target="_blank">919-286-7665</a> for more information.</p> <h3>March 27</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.oldwinstonsocialclub.com/" target="_blank">Old Winston Social Club,</a> Winston Salem from 5-10 p.m. Call <a href="tel:336-723-0060" target="_blank">336-723-0060</a> for more information.</p> <h3>April 4</h3> <p><strong>Oberon kick-off: </strong><a href="http://monkpub.com/" target="_blank">Thirsty Monk South</a>, Asheville from 5-10 p.m. Call <a href="tel:828-505-4564" target="_blank">828-505-4564</a> for more information.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>March 26</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://keystonebar.com/" target="_blank">Keystone Bar and Grill</a>, Cincinnati. Enjoy half off Keystone's famous mac and cheese. Two Hearted will also be available. Call <a href="tel:513-321-2150" target="_blank">513-321-2150</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong><a href="http://www.mellowmushroom.com/dublin#/store/index/dublin" target="_blank"> Mellow Mushroom</a> in Dublin at 5 p.m. Prizes and giveaways. Call <a href="tel:614-389-5445" target="_blank">614-389-5445</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party: </strong><a href="http://www.moerleinlagerhouse.com/" target="_blank">Christian Moerlein Lager House</a>, Cincinnati at 11 a.m. Call <a href="tel:513-421-2337" target="_blank">513-421-2337</a> for more information.</p> <h3>March 28</h3> <p>Oberon release party:<a href="http://www.themudflats.com/" target="_blank"> Mudflats Bar and Grill</a> in Galena at 5 p.m. Prizes and giveaways. Call <a href="tel:740-965-5700" target="_blank">740-965-5700</a> for more information.</p> <h2>Pennsylvania</h2> <h3><strong>March 26</strong></h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.harrisgrill.com/" target="_blank">Harris Grill,</a> Pittsburgh. Call <a href="tel:412-362-5273" target="_blank">412-362-5273</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://ruggerspub.com/" target="_blank">Ruggers Pub,</a> Pittsburgh. Call <a href="tel:412-381-1330" target="_blank">412-381-1330</a> for more information.</p> <h2>Puerto Rico</h2> <h3>March 26</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.ola-lolas.com/" target="_blank">Ola Lola's Garden Bar &amp; Grille</a>. Call <a href="tel:787-872-1230" target="_blank">787-872-1230</a> for more information.</p> <h2>South Carolina</h2> <h3>March 29</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release and Bell’s tasting:</strong> <a href="http://www.thecommunitytap.com/" target="_blank">The Community Tap</a>, Greenville. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Other Bell’s beers will also be featured. Call <a href="tel:864-631-2525" target="_blank">864-631-2525</a> for more information.</p> <h2>Virginia</h2> <h3>March 26</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong><a href="http://boulevardwoodgrill.com/" target="_blank"> Boulevard Woodgrill</a>, Arlington at 4 p.m.&nbsp; Call <a href="tel:703-875-9663" target="_blank">703-875-9663</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.carystreetcafe.com/" target="_blank">Cary Street Café</a>, Richmond. 5 p.m. Call <a href="tel:804-353-7445" target="_blank">804-353-7445</a> for more information.&nbsp;&nbsp;<cite><strong>&nbsp;</strong></cite><cite></cite></p> <p><strong>Oberon release party: </strong><a href="http://www.crossroadsrva.com/" target="_blank">Crossroads Coffee</a>, Richmond. 5 p.m. Call <a href="tel:804-231-2030" target="_blank">804-231-2030</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party</strong>: <a href="http://www.blue5restaurant.com/" target="_blank">Blue 5</a>, Roanoke. 5 p.m. Call <a href="tel:540-904-5338" target="_blank">540-904-5338</a> for more information.&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong><a href="http://www.timberwoodgrill.com/" target="_blank"> Timberwood Grill</a>, Charlottesville. &nbsp;5 p.m. Call <a href="tel:434-975-3311" target="_blank">434-975-3311</a> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.boylan-heights.com/" target="_blank">Boylan Heights,</a> Charlottesville. 5 p.m. Call <a href="tel:434-%20984-5707" target="_blank">434- 984-5707</a> for more information. &nbsp;</p> <h3>March 29</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.badtothebonesmokehouse.com/">Bad to the Bone Smokehouse</a>, Gainsville. Call 703-753-5551 for more information.</p> <h2>Washington DC</h2> <h3>March 27</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://amicodc.com/" target="_blank">American Ice Company </a>at 6 p.m. Call <a href="tel:202-758-3562" target="_blank">202-758-3562</a> for more information.</p> <h2>Wisconsin</h2> <h3>March 25</h3> <p><strong>Midnight release party:</strong> <a href="http://nomadworldpub.com/" target="_blank">Nomad World Pub</a>, Milwaukee. &nbsp;Call <a href="tel:414-224-8111" target="_blank">414-224-8111</a> for more information.</p> <h3>March 26</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.mikelikesbeer.com/" target="_blank">Highway Mike’s</a> in Kenosha starting at 11 a.m. Call <a href="tel:262-857-2392" target="_blank">262-857-2392</a> for more information.</p> <h3>March 28</h3> <p><strong>Oshkosh Pub Crawl</strong>: Starting at 5 p.m. <a href="http://uwcollegelife.com/oshkoshpubcrawl/" target="_blank">Go here for more information</a>.</p> <h3>March 29</h3> <p><strong>Oberon release party:</strong> <a href="http://www.comebackintavern.com/" target="_blank">Come Back In</a> in Madison starting at 5 p.m. Call <a href="tel:608-258-8619" target="_blank">608-258-8619</a> for more information.</p> <h3>March 30</h3> <p><strong>Taste Out Of Crime Beer Tasting: </strong>Sample Oberon as part of this event from 6-9 p.m. in Racine. Call <a href="tel:262-637-5711" target="_blank">262-637-5711</a> for more information.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-03-23T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Michigan grown hop rhizomes will arrive at the Bell’s General Store soon http://bellsbeer.com/news/86-Michigan%20grown%20hop%20rhizomes%20will%20arrive%20at%20the%20Bell%E2%80%99s%20General%20Store%20soon <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/1f5deac940f2339db253c6c0bc425c50.JPG" alt="HopCooler.JPG" height="306" width="411">KALAMAZOO – Signs of spring are everywhere. Here is another one.</p> <p>Hop rhizomes are due to arrive at the<a title="General Store" href="/index.php?cID=139"> Bell's General Store</a> by <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">Friday (March 23)</span> today (March 21). All are grown here in Michigan (South Haven) and are just $4.50 each.</p> <p>Here is what will be available with information about each from the grower.</p> <h3>Canadian Redvine</h3> <p><strong>ALPHA ACIDS:</strong> ~5%<sup> </sup>(southwest Michigan average)<br><sup><strong></strong></sup><strong>BETA ACIDS:</strong> ~5% <sup> </sup>(southwest Michigan average)<br><strong>Grower notes: </strong>Vigorous grower with good yields, late harvesting - small cones. Mild bittering agent, great for dry or late hopping.</p> <h3>Cascade</h3> <p><strong>ALPHA ACIDS:&nbsp;</strong>4-7%<sup> </sup>(USDA average)<sup><br><strong></strong></sup><strong>BETA ACIDS:</strong> 4-6% (USDA average)<br> <strong>Grower notes: </strong>Vigorous grower with high yields, late harvesting - large cones. Nice aroma variety for bittering and dry hopping.</p> <h3>Centennial</h3> <p><strong>ALPHA ACIDS:</strong> 9-12%<sup> </sup>(USDA average)<br><sup><strong></strong></sup><strong>BETA ACIDS:</strong> 4-5% (USDA average)<br><strong>Grower notes: </strong>Moderate growth and yield. Early harvesting, first hop picked - nice cones. Great bittering agent and excellent for dry hopping.</p> <h3>Chinook</h3> <p><strong>ALPHA ACIDS:</strong> 13 – 15%<sup> </sup>(USDA average)<br><sup><strong></strong></sup><strong>BETA ACIDS:</strong> 3-5% (USDA average)<br> <strong>Grower notes: </strong>Vigorous grower and excellent yields, mid harvesting and huge cone flowers. Great bittering agent with a pleasant aroma.</p> <h3>Columbus</h3> <p><strong>ALPHA ACIDS:</strong> 9-16%<sup> </sup>(USDA average)<br><sup><strong></strong></sup><strong>BETA ACIDS:</strong> 4-5 % (USDA average)<br> <strong>Grower notes: </strong>Average growth and yield, nice aroma similar to Centennial.</p> <h3>Nugget</h3> <p><strong>ALPHA ACIDS:</strong> 9-15%<sup> </sup>(USDA average)<br><sup><strong></strong></sup><strong>BETA ACIDS:</strong> 2-6% (USDA average)<br> <strong>Grower notes: </strong>Good growth and high yields. Late harvesting, last hop picked – large cones. Excellent bittering agent/great for dry hopping.</p> <h3>Willamette<strong></strong></h3> <p><strong>ALPHA ACIDS:</strong> 5-10%<sup> </sup>(USDA average)<strong><br>BETA ACIDS: </strong>3-5% (USDA average)<br> <strong>Grower notes:</strong> Moderate growth and yield. Mid season harvest, nice cones. Pleasant aroma variety, excellent for dry or late hopping</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-03-20T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: March Madness, casks of Hopslam and a special happy hour http://bellsbeer.com/news/85-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20March%20Madness%2C%20casks%20of%20Hopslam%20and%20a%20special%20happy%20hour%20 <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/4612/8386/7472/KBC-HopslamAle-lable.small.crush.png" alt="KBC HopslamAle lable.tif.png" height="352" width="359">Here is a look at events this week in Michigan, Ohio and Minnesota.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>March 22</h3> <p><strong>March Madness at Harvey's on the Mall</strong><br> There will be plenty of Bell's beer on draft and in bottles for this March Madness event upstairs in <a href="http://harveyskazoo.com/">Harvey's new Upper Deck Sports Lounge</a>. There will be giveaways and games. Michigan State University will take on Louisville at 7:47 p.m. and Cincinnati will play Ohio at 9:45 p.m. Call 269-492-7506 for more information.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>March 23</h3> <p><strong> Bell's night - Lizardville, Bedford Heights </strong><br> Celebrate happy hour at <a href="http://www.lizardville.net">Lizardville </a>in Bedford Heights at 5 p.m. with Amber Ale, Cherry Stout and Lager of the Lakes. Call 216-364-2337 for more information.</p> <h3>March 24</h3> <p><strong> Winking Lizard Cask Ale Festival </strong><br> A cask of Hopslam will be available at the Winking Lizard Party Center in Bedford Heights. For more information, <a href="http://www.winkinglizard.com/">go here</a>.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>March 24</h3> <p><strong>Firkin Fest 2012 </strong><br> Look for a cask of Hopslam Ale at <a href="http://thehappygnome.com/">The Happy Gnome</a> in St. Paul at 1 p.m. Call 651-287-2018 for more information.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Oberon will be released March 26. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Check our calendar to see where you will be able to get that first taste.</a><br> <br></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-03-20T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Experimental hop series: Recent batches lead to a few surprises http://bellsbeer.com/news/84-Experimental%20hop%20series%3A%20Recent%20batches%20lead%20to%20a%20few%20surprises <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/3748de33f1cb6f7ff196ce2461841f03.JPG" alt="EXP2012-1.JPG" height="455" width="314">For those of you who have been following along with our experimental hop series at the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Café</a>, one additional beer, <strong>EXP Hop 2012-1,</strong> has been recently tapped (<strong>EXP Hop 2012-2 </strong>will be available soon). This brings the total number of beers released so far to four.</p> <p>Some interesting things have developed since <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/blog/73-Bell___s_experimental_hop_series_will_feature_7_different_styles_of_beer_exclusive_to_the_Eccentric_Cafe">our first post on this series</a> of seven different beers, each brewed with a different hop varietal coming straight from growers’ trial plots. These hops are limited both in quantity and availability and only one has been formally named. The rest are designated with numbers.</p> <p>While there weren't a lot of surprises with the second and third beers (<strong>EXP Hop 2011-2,</strong> Type 366 and <strong>EXP Hop 2011-3,</strong> Type 509), the two most recent batches actually turned out quite different than what the initial aroma test led us to expect.</p> <p>Rather than being a flaw, we prefer to look at these new developments as just another part of the experimental nature of this series.</p> <p>The goal after all is to become familiar with these new ingredients and learn more about how they perform in the real world.</p> <p>Below are the initial assessments followed by the actual descriptions for comparison.</p> <h3>EXP Hop 2012-1: Type 423</h3> <p><em>(photo at right)</em></p> <p><strong>Initial: </strong>Very pungent fruity &amp; floral aroma, with pine as a secondary note.</p> <p><strong>Actual:</strong> A mildly herbal &amp; woody aroma with just a touch of citrus. The mouthfeel of this unique black ale is quite smooth, with a pleasantly soft bitterness &amp; hop presence.</p> <h3>EXP Hop 2012-2: Type 556</h3> <p><strong>Initial:</strong> Intense floral character with fruity undertones&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Actual:</strong> This hop-forward beer offers a floral hop aroma upfront that shifts to a blend of woody &amp; herbal notes at the finish.</p> <p>For more, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/blog/73-Bell___s_experimental_hop_series_will_feature_7_different_styles_of_beer_exclusive_to_the_Eccentric_Cafe">check out our previous post.</a> To see if any of the beers in this series are currently available,<a title="Draft List" href="/eccentric-cafe/beers-on-tap/"> take a look at our Draft Cam.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-03-13T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell’s beer event roundup: Hopslam, St. Patrick’s Day and more; Oberon event list grows http://bellsbeer.com/news/83-Bell%E2%80%99s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Hopslam%2C%20St.%20Patrick%E2%80%99s%20Day%20and%20more%3B%20Oberon%20event%20list%20grows <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/4612/8386/7472/KBC-HopslamAle-lable.small.crush.png" alt="KBC HopslamAle lable.tif.png" height="352" width="359">Here is a look at Bell’s beer events this week in Illinois, Michigan, Arizona, Indiana and Ohio.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>March 12</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam firkin tapping at <a href="http://farmhousechicago.com/">Farmhouse</a> </strong><br> Don’t miss your chance to enjoy the last firkin of Hopslam in Chicago until 2013. It will be tapped at 5 p.m. Call 312-280-4960 for more information.</p> <h3>March 14</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam tasting and Beer School </strong><br> <a href="http://thedukeabides.com/">Duke's Alehouse &amp; Kitchen</a> in Crystal Lake will feature a rare pouring of Hopslam for this event at 7 p.m. &nbsp;Call 815-356-9980 for more information <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1767">or go here</a>.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>March 16</h3> <p><strong>Tap takeover at <a href="http://mittenbar.com">The Mitten Bar </a></strong><br> Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day early with seven stouts, a&nbsp; firkin and other drafts in Ludington starting at 4 p.m. Call 231-843-7616 for more information. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1791">See the full list of beers here</a>.</p> <h2>Arizona&nbsp;</h2> <h3>March 13</h3> <p><strong>Bell's beer tasting &amp; meet and greet with Larry Bell </strong><br> Join Larry Bell for some Oberon, Two hearted, Porter, Best Brown and Black Note from 6-8 p.m. at <a href="http://ohsobrewery.com/">O.H.S.O. Eatery</a> in Phoenix. Black Note will be tapped at 7 p.m. Tickets for this limited beer will go on sale at 6:15 p.m. – first come, first serve. Call 602-955-0358 for more information.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>March 16</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam firkin tapping</strong><br>The last firkin of our seasonal DIPA in Indiana will be tapped on Friday at <a href="%09http://www.twentytap.com/">Twenty Tap</a>. Call 317-602-8840 for more information.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>March 17</h3> <p><strong>Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with Bell's Oatmeal Stout - Cleveland, Colmbus areas </strong><br> Five <a href="http://www.winkinglizard.com/">Winking Lizard</a> locations will tap Oatmeal Stout on St. Patrick’s Day<strong> - </strong>Independence, Gateway, Mentor, Bedford Heights and Crosswoods. Once it is gone, it’s gone.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p><strong>More March Madness and Firkin Fest:</strong> <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look at our full calendar here.</a></p> <h2>2012 Oberon release</h2> <p>Oberon will be released March 26. The list of midnight tappings and celebrations has been growing since our first roundup – part of the inaugural issue of <a title="eMail Newsletter" href="/contact/mailing-list/">our new eMail Newsletter</a> – <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">take a look at what we have so far</a>.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-03-12T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Oscar, Grammy winner Luis Resto to perform at Bell’s Eccentric Cafe http://bellsbeer.com/news/82-Oscar%2C%20Grammy%20winner%20Luis%20Resto%20to%20perform%20at%20Bell%E2%80%99s%20Eccentric%20Cafe <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/eaa26849abf512857eced5a77996846f.jpg" alt="luis_resto_press_3_web.jpg" width="443" height="354">KALAMAZOO – Bell’s Brewery, Inc., in partnership with the <a href="http://www.thegilmore.org">Irving S. Gilmore International Keyboard Festival</a>, is proud to announce Oscar and Grammy award winner <a href="http://www.luisresto.com">Luis Resto</a> will perform at <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Bell’s Eccentric Café</a> on March 22.</p> <p>Resto’s recording resume includes working with musicians Anita Baker, Patti Smith, Iggy Pop, Jay-Z, B.o.B., 50 Cent and Eminem.</p> <p>Admission to Resto’s performance at the Café, 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave. in Kalamazoo, is $10. Doors will open at 8:30 p.m. and Resto will perform at 9:30 p.m. inside the Café’s recently renovated and state of the art performance space.</p> <p>Known as one of Detroit’s most creative and accomplished songwriters, Resto earned both an Oscar and a Grammy for co-writing the hit song “Lose Yourself” with Eminem for the film “8 Mile.”</p> <p>The single spent 12 weeks atop Billboard’s Top 100.</p> <p>Resto continues to work with Eminem as a songwriter and keyboardist on both recording projects and live in concert. He co-wrote the single “Not Afraid,” part of Eminem’s 2010 album “Recovery,” which also received multiple Grammy nominations including Best Rap Song.</p> <p>Luis was also responsible for the musical arrangement and choir production for the use of “Lose Yourself” in the 2011 Chrysler 200 commercial featuring Eminem.</p> <p>Amongst all of these accomplishments, Luis has also found time to launch a solo career with the recent release of his debut album “Combo De Momento.”</p> <p>Resto’s performance at the Eccentric Café is a little more than a month before he performs as part of this year’s Irving S. Gilmore International Keyboard Festival held April 26-May 12.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-03-01T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Leap Day celebration, Hopslam, Suds & Snow and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/81-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Leap%20Day%20celebration%2C%20Hopslam%2C%20Suds%20%26%20Snow%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/8513/3036/0967/6761832559_b63870547e.jpg" alt="MinuteToWinItFile.jpg" height="500" width="333">Here is a look at Bell’s beer events this week in Michigan, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Indiana and Illinois.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Feb. 28</h3> <p><strong>Bell's beer tasting, pairing at <a href="http://www.universityroadhouse.com/">University Roadhouse</a> </strong><br> Join us in Kalamazoo from 6-8 p.m. for five Bell’s beers each paired with a different appetizer. Space is limited and reservations are required. Call 269-345-7990 for more information.</p> <h3>Feb. 29</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Leap Day multi-tap celebration - <a href="http://www.oconnorspublichouse.us/">O'Connor's Public House</a></strong><br> <strong>Special menu items will be paired with our beers starting at </strong>5 p.m. in Rochester. There will be trivia, contests, prizes and a firkin of Two Hearted Ale. Also on tap: Amber Ale, Cherry Stout, Hopslam Ale, Lager Beer, Sparkling Ale, Two Hearted Ale, and Winter White Ale. Call 248-608-2537 for more information.</p> <h3>March 1</h3> <p><strong>Bell's multi-tap event with Minute to Win It games - <a href="http://www.ashleys.com/">Ashley's in Westland </a></strong><br> The first pour for this event will be at 4:30 p.m. On tap will be Amber Ale, Best Brown Ale, Black Note, Hell Hath No Fury … Ale, Hopslam Ale, Lager Beer, Pale Ale, Oarsman Ale, Porter, Quinannan Falls Special Lager, Rye Stout, Sparkling Ale, Special Double Cream Stout, Third Coast Beer, Two Hearted Ale, Winter White Ale, Oatmeal Stout and Golden Rye. There will also be games inspired by the TV show "Minute to Win It." Call 734-525-1667 for more information.</p> <h3>March 3</h3> <p><strong>2012 Suds &amp; Snow </strong><br> From 1:30-6:30 p.m., we’ll be pouring at <a href="http://www.timberridgeresort.net">Timber Ridge</a> in Traverse City for this year’s annual Suds &amp; Snow.</p> <h2>Pennsylvania</h2> <h3>Feb. 28</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam tapping</strong><br>Join us at <a href="http://www.dantesinc.com">The Deli/Z Bar</a> in State College for a special Hopslam tapping at 7 p.m. Call 814-237-5710 for more information.</p> <h3>March 2</h3> <p><strong>Tap takeover - <a href="http://www.citytaphouse.com/">City Tap House, Philadelphia</a> </strong><br> Ten Bell’s beers will be on tap including Hopslam and Sparkling Ale starting at 7 p.m. (6 p.m. if you are a Beer 2.0 member). Call 215-662-0105 for more information.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>March 3-4</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Brewery at The Twin Cities Food &amp; Wine Show </strong><br> Sample rare and seasonal releases at the <a href="http://www.foodwineshow.com/">2012 Twin Cities Food and Wine Show</a> from 1-5 p.m. We will be pouring more than 15 different beers including Amber Ale, Best Brown Ale, Consecrator Doppelbock, Kalamazoo Stout, Lager Beer, Pale Ale, Oarsman Ale, Porter, Special Double Cream Stout, Third Coast Beer, Third Coast Old Ale, Two Hearted Ale and Winter White Ale.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Feb. 29</h3> <p><strong>Extra love for Leap Year Babies</strong><br>This event at <a href="http://jerryssandwiches.com/">Jerry's Wicker Park</a> in Chicago will feature a cask of Two Hearted, Sparkling Ale and Hopslam. Call 773-235-1006 for more information.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>March 1</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam firkin</strong><br><a href="http://www.maxsplace.info/">Max's Place</a> in Bloomington will tap a cask of Hopslam at 7 p.m. sharp. They will also have Two Hearted Ale, Kalamazoo Stout and Porter on tap as well. Call 812-336-5169 for more information.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>The 3<sup>rd</sup> Annual Brew-Ski Festival and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Check out our full calendar here.</a></p> <p><em><strong>Photo caption:</strong> A file photo from a previous Minute to Win It event at Shakespeare's Pub in Kalamazoo.</em></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-02-27T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Tap list for Michigan Winter Beer Festival available here; Bell’s will be at 2 events leading up to sold out celebration http://bellsbeer.com/news/80-Tap%20list%20for%20Michigan%20Winter%20Beer%20Festival%20available%20here%3B%20Bell%E2%80%99s%20will%20be%20at%202%20events%20leading%20up%20to%20sold%20out%20celebration <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/cbb74e37bb986f0ebbc823101eb861fc.jpg" alt="WinterFestCover.jpg" height="430" width="318">We have two events scheduled in Grand Rapids leading up to the sold out <a href="http://michiganbrewersguild.businesscatalyst.com/">7<sup>th</sup> Annual Michigan Winter Beer Festival.</a></p> <p><strong>On Feb. 23,</strong> we’ll be at <a href="http://baggerdaves.com/">Bagger Dave’s</a> off of 28<sup>th</sup> Street on Kraft Ave. for a craft beer and burger pairing event. On tap will be: Winter White, Hopslam, Two Hearted, Best Brown Ale, Special Double Cream Stout, Lager, Black Note and Golden Rye.</p> <p><a href="http://www.hawktones.com/">The Hawktones</a> will also perform.&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>On Feb. 24, </strong>we’ll take over all 16 taps at the <a href="http://www.meanwhilebar.com/">Meanwhile Bar</a> with Two Hearted Ale, Hopslam, Double Cream&nbsp; Stout, Winter White, Best Brown Ale, Raspberry Ale, Sweet Potato Stout, Java Stout, Hell Hath No Fury … Ale, Sparkling Ale, Oatmeal Stout, Rye Stout, a firkin of Hopslam, Third Coast Beer, Amber Ale, Oarsman Ale and Pale Ale.</p> <p>Bell’s own Laura Bell will also make a special appearance that night as well.</p> <p>Below is what we will have on tap for the main event at <a href="http://fifththirdballpark.com/">Fifth Third Ballpark</a> on <strong>Feb. 25</strong> (please note special tapping times):</p> <p>• Two-Hearted <br> • Hopslam <br> • Black Note (special tapping at 3:15 p.m.)<br> • Raspberry Ale<br> • Le Batteur Farmhouse Ale<br> • Sweet Potato Stout<br> • Third Coast Old Ale<br> • Cherry Stout<br> • Java Stout<br> • Hell Hath No Fury … Ale<br> • Sparkling Ale <br> • Oatmeal Stout<br> • Golden Rye <br> • Batch 9,000 (special tapping at 2:15 p.m.)<br> • Batch 10,000 (special tapping at 4:15 p.m.)<br> • Wild One Raspberry Ale (special tapping at 1:15 p.m.)</p> <p>Watch for live updates on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BellsBreweryInc">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/#%21/BellsBrewery">Twitter </a>during these events plus photos after the festival as well.</p> <p>Cheers!</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-02-22T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Michigan Winter Beer Festival, Hopslam, Consecrator Doppelbock and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/79-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Michigan%20Winter%20Beer%20Festival%2C%20Hopslam%2C%20Consecrator%20Doppelbock%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/4012/8386/7560/Consecrator_label.small.crush.png" alt="Consecrator_label.tif.png" height="348" width="353">Here is a look at Bell’s beer events coming up this week in North Dakota, Florida, Arizona, Kentucky, Ohio, Illinois and Michigan.</p> <h2>North Dakota</h2> <h3>Feb. 21</h3> <p><strong>Bell's beer dinner - Grand Forks </strong><br> Join Bell’s Sales Representative Jason Gillum for a beer dinner featuring five Bell’s beers starting at 6:30 p.m. at <a href="http://rhombuspizza.com/">Rhombus Guys</a>. Call 701-787-7317 for more information.</p> <h3>Feb. 22</h3> <p><strong>Bell's beer dinner at <a href="http://rhombuspizza.com/">Rhombus Guys</a> - Fargo </strong><br> Join us for a night of food and beer fusion starting at 6:30 p.m. This beer dinner will feature Amber Ale, Best Brown Ale, Cherry Stout, Pale Ale and Third Coast Old Ale. Call 701-540-4534 for reservations.</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>Feb. 21<a href="../../../../../events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1718"></a></h3> <p><strong>Bell's Nite at <a href="http://newworldbrewery.net">New World Brewery </a></strong><br> Sample many great Bell’s beers on draft from 6- 9 p.m. in Tampa. Call 813-248-4969 for more information.</p> <h3>Feb. 22</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Hopslam at <a href="http://www.vineandbarley.com/">Vine and Barely </a></strong><br> Sample Hopslam and other Bell’s drafts from 7-9 p.m. in Port St. Lucie. Call 772-446-7550 for more information.</p> <h3>Feb. 23</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Nite at <a href="http://ftmyers.wobusa.com/">WOB Ft. Myers </a></strong><br> Sample a variety of Bell’s beers on draft from 6-8 p.m. Call 239-437-2411 for more information.</p> <h3>Feb. 24</h3> <p><strong>Stogies and Stouts at <a href="http://www.dunedinbrewery.com/">Dunedin Brewery </a></strong><br> Sample Bell's Cherry Stout, Java Stout, Double Cream Stout and 2010 Expedition Stout starting at 4 p.m. in Dunedin. Call 727-736-0606 for more information.</p> <h2>Arizona</h2> <p>Celebrate <strong>Arizona Craft Beer Week</strong> with three Bell’s events.</p> <p><strong>Feb. 21:</strong> Girls Pint out with Bell's Brewery -<a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1734"> find more details here</a>.</p> <p><strong>Feb. 22:</strong> Bell's tasting at Taste of Tops - <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1736">find more details here</a>.</p> <p><strong>Feb. 23</strong>: Bell's Eccentric Cafe comes to The Hungry Monk – <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1735">find more details here</a>.</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>Feb. 23</h3> <p><strong>Firkin tapping<br> </strong>Bell’s Two Hearted Ale will be the first firkin to be tapped at <a href="http://www.thebeertrappe.com/">The Beer Trappe</a> in Lexington at 5 p.m. Call 859-309-0911 for more information.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>Feb. 23</h3> <p><strong>Consecrator tapping</strong><br> Enjoy a first taste of this beer at <a href="http://www.candbpublichouse.com">Cock and Bull Public House</a> in Glendale starting at 5 p.m. You even get to keep the Bell’s snifter it comes in. Make sure to get there early before it runs out. Call 513-771-4253 for more information.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Feb. 21</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam tapping</strong><br><a href="http://www.publichousechicago.com">Public House in Chicago</a> will tap a keg of Hopslam along with Golden Rye, Oarsman Ale and Oatmeal Stout paired with appetizers from 6-8 p.m. Call 312-265-1240 for more information.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <p>We have two events leading up to the sold out Michigan Winter Beer Festival near Grand Rapids.</p> <h3>Feb. 23<a href="../../../../../events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1733"></a></h3> <p><strong>What the Ale - Bell's tap takeover </strong><br> Join us at <a href="http://baggerdaves.com">Bagger Dave’s</a> on 28th Street from 6-10 p.m. for a tap takeover. The Hawktones will also perform. Call 616-977-4349 for more information.</p> <h3>Feb. 24</h3> <p><strong>Pre-Winter Beer Festival party at The Meanwhile </strong><br> <a href="http://www.meanwhilebar.com/">The Meanwhile</a> in Grand Rapids will host this tap takeover starting at 4 p.m. Call 616-233-1679 for more information.</p> <h3>Feb. 25</h3> <p><strong>7th Annual Michigan Winter Beer Festival </strong><br> From noon - 6 p.m. we’ll be pouring Two-Hearted IPA, Hopslam, Black Note, Raspberry Ale, Hell Hath No Fury ... Ale, Sparkling Ale, Oatmeal Stout, Golden Rye and many more at <a href="http://fifththirdballpark.com/">Fifth Third Ballpark</a> in Comstock Park.</p> <p><em>Stay tuned for complete tap lists for all 3 events.</em></p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>A pairing event at University Roadhouse in Kalamazoo, a multi-tap event at Ashley’s in Westland, Suds &amp; Snow, The Twin Cities Food &amp; Wine Show and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look at the full calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-02-20T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Sign up for the new Bell’s newsletter: Stay up to date on beer releases, news, Eccentric Café events and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/78-Sign%20up%20for%20the%20new%20Bell%E2%80%99s%20newsletter%3A%20Stay%20up%20to%20date%20on%20beer%20releases%2C%20news%2C%20Eccentric%20Caf%C3%A9%20events%20and%20more <p>We are rolling out another way to stay up to date on information about Bell’s Brewery – an eMail Newsletter delivered right to your inbox.</p> <p>The first issue will be sent out March 1.</p> <p>Our monthly newsletter will include information about upcoming beer releases, shows at the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Café</a>, brewery news, helpful links and much more. The inaugural issue will also include information about the 2012 Oberon season.</p> <p><a title="eMail Newsletter" href="/contact/mailing-list/">Sign up here.</a></p> <p><strong>You can also stay in touch with Bell’s Brewery on:</strong></p> <p><strong>• Facebook </strong>(be sure to <em>Like </em>both <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BellsBreweryInc">Bell’s Brewery, Inc. (Official)</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BellsEccentricCafe">Bell’s Eccentric Café</a>)</p> <p><a href="https://twitter.com/#%21/BellsBrewery">• Twitter</a></p> <p><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/b/109244532904663173500/109244532904663173500/posts">• Google+</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/bellsbreweryinc/">• Flickr</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/BellsBreweryOfficial">• YouTube</a></p> <p><a title="Blog" href="/news/">And don’t forget our blog.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-02-17T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Valentine's Day pint night, tap takeovers and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/77-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Valentine%27s%20Day%20pint%20night%2C%20tap%20takeovers%20and%20more <p>Here is a look at Bell’s beer events coming up this week in Ohio, Florida, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Virginia and Wisconsin.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>Feb. 14</h3> <p><strong>Valentine's Day pint night </strong><br> Spend your evening with Two Hearted, Sparkling Ale and Special Double Cream Stout on draft at <a href="http://arthurscincinnati.com">Arthur’s Restaurant</a> in Cincinnati starting at 5 p.m. &nbsp;Call 513-871-5543 for more information.</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>Feb. 15</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Blast at Bx Depot </strong><br> Join us at<a href="http://www.bxbeerdepot.com"> BX Beer Depot </a>in Lake Worth starting at 5 p.m. for Third Coast Old Ale, Special Double Cream Stout, Hopslam and Black Note. Call 561-965-9494 for more information.</p> <h3>Feb. 16</h3> <p><strong>Ring the Bell's at <a href="http://www.tap42.com/">Tap 42 </a></strong><br> Sample Hopslam, Oberon, Amber Ale, Special Double Cream Stout and more from 6-8 p.m. in Ft. Lauderdale. Call 954-463-4900 for more information.</p> <h2>Pennsylvania</h2> <h3>Feb. 15</h3> <p><strong>Bell's beer dinner at <a href="http://www.STARTERSRIVERPORT.com">Starters Riverport </a></strong><br> This four course beer dinner will feature Hopslam and three other Bell’s beers starting at 7 p.m. Call 610-625-2300 for more information.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Feb. 16</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Specialty Night at <a href="http://www.hackneysprintersrow.net/">Hackney's Printers' Row </a></strong><br> Sample Harry Magill's Spiced Stout, Rye Stout, Oatmeal Stout, Deb's Red, Golden Rye, Black Note and a Hopslam firkin starting at 6 p.m. in Chicago. Call 312-461-1116 for more information.</p> <h2>Virginia</h2> <h3>Feb. 16</h3> <p><strong>Bell's at London Underground! </strong><br> We’ll take over the taps at 6 p.m. with Amber Ale, Kalamazoo Stout, Lager, Oarsman, Pale Ale, Porter, Two Hearted, Best Brown, Winter White, Expedition Stout, Hopslam, Java Stout, Cherry Stout, Special Double Cream Stout, Hopsoulution and Hell Hath No Fury ... Ale. Call 540-552-9044 for more information.</p> <h2>Wisconsin</h2> <h3>Feb. 17</h3> <p><strong>Hops &amp; Chops beer dinner </strong><br> This six course beer dinner will start at 6:30 p.m. and feature Oarsman, Hopslam, Raspberry Ale and more at <a href="http://www.strawberrycreekclub.com/index.php">The Club at Strawberry Creek</a> in Kenosha. Call 262-857-8400 for more information.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>A beer dinner in Grand Forks, North Dakota, three events during Arizona Beer Week, the 7<sup>th</sup> Annual Michigan Winter Beer Festival and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look at our entire calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-02-13T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Traverse City Winter Microbrew & Music Festival, Hopslam casks, Cincinnati Beer Week http://bellsbeer.com/news/76-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Traverse%20City%20Winter%20Microbrew%20%26%20Music%20Festival%2C%20Hopslam%20casks%2C%20Cincinnati%20Beer%20Week <p>Here is a look at Bell’s beer events coming up this week in Wisconsin, Illinois, Ohio, Minnesota, Florida, North Dakota, Georgia and Michigan.</p> <h2>Wisconsin</h2> <h3>Feb. 7</h3> <p><strong>Beer dinner: Five restaurants, five breweries</strong><br>We’re teaming up with Tess to a dish paired with Hopslam as one of five courses for a beer dinner at <a href="http://www.hinterlandbeer.com">Hinterland Brewery</a> in Milwaukee. Call 414-727-9500 for more information.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Feb. 7</h3> <p><strong>Tap takeover at Sheffield’s + 2 firkins</strong><br>Twelve Bell’s beers will be on tap starting at 8 p.m. at <a href="http://www.sheffieldschicago.com/">Sheffield’s in Chicago</a> paired with some Bell’s inspired food. We’ll be pouring Hopslam, Two Hearted, a Two Hearted firkin, Expedition Stout, Kalamazoo Stout, a Kalamazoo Stout firkin, Cherry Stout, Oracle, Sparkling Ale, Third Coast Ale, Amber, Porter, Winter White and Pale Ale. Call 773-281-4989 for more information.</p> <h3>Feb. 9</h3> <p><strong>Stout spectacular</strong><br>Join us at<a href="http://www.thevillagetap.com/"> Village Tap</a> in Chicago for some Cherry Stout and quite a few other beers picked specifically to ward off any winter malaise starting at 5 p.m. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1730">For the full list go here</a> or call 877-410-7148 for more information.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>Feb. 7</h3> <p><strong>Cincinnati Beer Week: RYE happy hour</strong><br><a href="http://www.arnoldsbarandgrill.com/">Arnold’s Bar and Grill in Cincinnati</a> will host this event featuring Bell’s Golden Rye and Rye Stout as part of Cincinnati Beer Week starting at 5 p.m. Call 513-421-6234 for more information.</p> <h3>Feb. 10</h3> <p><strong>Cincinnati Beer Week: Hopslam firkin tapping</strong><br>Join us at the <a href="http://theenglishpub.com/">Cock and Bull Public House – Hyde Park</a> at 5 p.m. for a firkin of Hopslam, also part of Cincinnati Beer Week. Call 513-533-4253 for more information.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Feb. 8</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam cask tapping</strong><br><a href="http://busterson28th.com/">Buster’s on 28<sup>th</sup></a> will tap a Hopslam cask at 2:30 p.m. Call 612-729-0911 for more information.</p> <h3>Feb. 9</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam cask tapping</strong><br><a href="http://bryantlakebowl.com/">Bryant Lake Bowl</a> will also tap a rare cask of Hopslam at 6 p.m. Call 612-825-3737 for more information.</p> <h2>Florida</h2> <h3>Feb. 8</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s night at Brew Garden</strong><br>Join us at <a href="http://thebrewgarden.com/">The Brew Garden</a> in Clearwater for some Amber Ale, Two Hearted and Hopslam from 8-10 p.m. Call 727-797-6622 for more information.</p> <h2>North Dakota</h2> <h3>Feb. 9</h3> <p><strong>Two Hearted cask ale</strong><br><a href="http://sidestreetpub.com/index.htm">Sidestreet Grille and Pub</a> in Fargo will tap its cask of Two Hearted Ale at 5 p.m. Call 701-271-0092 for more information.</p> <h2>Georgia</h2> <h3>Feb. 11</h3> <p><strong>Winter Beer Carnival</strong><br>This third annual event in Atlanta will feature Two Hearted, Porter and Best Brown from 2-7 p.m. For more information, <a href="http://www.winterbeercarnival.com/">go here. </a></p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Feb. 11</h3> <p><a href="http://www.porterhouseproductions.com/2011/12/19/2012-3rd-annual-traverse-city-winter-microbrew-music-festival/"><strong>3<sup>rd</sup> Annual Winter Traverse City Microbrew &amp; Music Festival</strong></a><br>We’ll be pouring Bell’s Hell Hath No Fury ... Ale, Black Note Stout, Hopslam Ale, Winter White Ale, Oarsman Ale, Amber Ale, Oatmeal Stout and Best Brown Ale from 4-10 p.m. at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons in Traverse City.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Valentine’s Day pint night, 2012 Hops and Chops beer dinner, Bell’s at London Underground and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Check out our full calendar for more here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-02-06T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Looking for Bell's beer? A new, improved Beer Finder is now online http://bellsbeer.com/news/75-Looking%20for%20Bell%27s%20beer%3F%20A%20new%2C%20improved%20Beer%20Finder%20is%20now%20online <p style="text-align: right;"><img style="float: right;" src="/files/cache/485a7263afb3033d743b5ed14ddbd4f5.png" alt="Bells_US_map_website-04.png" width="365" height="223"></p> <p>Locating your favorite Bell’s beer can be challenging and we have been working on ways to make this easier for some time.</p> <p>Previously, our Beer Finder only listed contact information for each of our distributors by county in the 18 states we distribute to (in addition to Washington DC and Puerto Rico) highlighted in the map to the right.</p> <p>Now we have something more direct.</p> <p>Today we are launching<a title="Beer Finder" href="/index.php?cID=236"> a brand new Beer Finder</a> that will allow many of our fans to locate Bell’s beer based on their zip code or address whether at a bar, a restaurant, a retailer or all of the above. There is also a mobile friendly version that can be used when on the go.</p> <p>While this is a drastic improvement for many, unfortunately our fans in certain areas will still have to contact our distributors directly. This is simply beyond our control and we have listed those areas below along with contact information for each distributor. <a title="Distributors" href="/brands/distributors/">This contact information will always be available on our website as well.</a></p> <p><em><strong>Here is how to use the new Beer Finder.</strong></em></p> <p>• <strong>Visit our Beer Finder online:</strong> <a title="Brand Finder" href="/brands/brand-finder/">http://bellsbeer.com/brands/brand-finder/</a></p> <p>• <strong>Enter your zip code or address</strong> (an address is required for directions).</p> <p>• <strong>Choose which locations you would like to visit</strong> (bars, restaurants, retail outlets, all).</p> <p>• <strong>Select which beer or beers you are looking for</strong> (you can also choose our entire portfolio).</p> <p>• <strong>Click the “Show Results” button.</strong></p> <p>A Google map with a list of nearby locations and contact information for each will load based on your search. It will also show you what other Bell’s brands are available as well, just in case something else catches your eye.</p> <p>This information can then be shared via Facebook, Twitter or Google+. You can also get a link for your results to share via email.</p> <p><strong>We still suggest calling ahead</strong> to individual locations to confirm that what you are looking for is still available before you head out the door, as these results link to distributor deliveries, not the real-time inventories or draft offerings of these locations, and are thus subject to change.</p> <h3>Distributor contact information</h3> <p>Here are the areas where the Beer Finder’s reach is restricted and who to contact for help locating Bell’s beer.</p> <p><strong>Georgia:</strong> Savannah Distributing, 912-233-1167</p> <p><strong>Iowa:</strong> MJ Distributing, 515-276-2659</p> <p><strong>Ohio:</strong> Premium Beverage Supply, 614-777-1007</p> <p><strong>North Carolina:</strong> Tryon Distributing, 704-334-0849</p> <p><strong>South Carolina:</strong> Advantage Fine Wine, 843-225-2005</p> <p><em><strong>Counties in southeast Pennsylvania -</strong></em></p> <p><strong>Mifflin, Juniata, Perry, Cumberland, Franklin, Adams, York, Lancaster, Lebanon, Duaphin:</strong> Westy’s Beer Distributor, 717-737-2621</p> <p><strong>Wayne, Pike, Lackawanna, Monroe, Luzerne, Carbon, Schuylkill, Lehigh, Northampton, Berks, Bucks, Montgomery, Chester, Delaware and Philadelphia:</strong> Shangy, Inc, 610-967-1701</p> <p><strong>Marquette County (Michigan):</strong> Ward Beverage, 810-767-8720</p> <p><strong>Douglas County (Wisconsin): </strong>Michaud, 715-392-1500</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-02-02T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Tap takeover in DC, Hopslam events and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/74-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Tap%20takeover%20in%20DC%2C%20Hopslam%20events%20and%20more <p>Here is a look at Bell’s beer events coming up this week in Washington DC, Indiana, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Virginia, Wisconsin and Georgia.</p> <h2>Washington DC</h2> <h3>Jan. 31</h3> <p><strong>Bell's tap takeover at <a href="http://churchkeydc.com/">ChurchKey</a></strong><br>Hopslam and many other beers with be tapped at 6 p.m.: Amber Ale, Best Brown Ale, Expedition Stout, Hell Hath No Fury … Ale, Kalamazoo Stout, Lager Beer, Pale Ale, Oarsman Ale, Porter, Quinannan Falls Special Lager, Rye Stout, Sparkling Ale, Special Double Cream Stout, Two Hearted Ale and Winter White Ale. Call 202-567-2576 for more information.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Feb. 1</h3> <p><strong>Super Bell's party</strong><br><a href="http://beersellar.net/indy/default.html">Beer Sellar</a> in Indianapolis will have 20 Bell's beers on tap plus a firkin of Hopslam.&nbsp; While this event starts at 5 p.m., Hopslam will be tapped at 6 p.m. and Black Note will be tapped at 7 p.m. Also on tap: Amber, Best Brown, Special Double Cream Stout, Expedition Stout, Harry Magill's Spiced Stout, Hell Hath No Fury ... Ale, Java Stout, Kalamazoo Stout, Lager, Oarsmen, Porter, Quinannan Falls, Raspberry Ale, Rye Stout, Sparkling Ale, Third Coast Beer, Two Hearted and Winter White. Call 317-849-2739 for more information.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Feb. 2</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Hopslam cask tapping at<a href="http://www.thebulldoglowertown.com/"> The Bulldog Lowertown</a> </strong><br> Enjoy a special tapping of a cask of Bell's Hopslam at 4 p.m. in St. Paul. Call 651-221-0750 for more information.</p> <h3>Feb. 3</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam cask tapping at <a href="http://www.grumpys-bar.com/nordeast/">Grumpy’s</a></strong><br> Enjoy a rare tapping of a Hopslam cask with some amazing food pairings at 4 p.m. in Minneapolis. Call 612-789-7429 for more information.</p> <h2>Missouri</h2> <h3>Feb. 2</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam firkin tapping at<a href="http://internationaltaphouse.com/"> iTAP (Soulard) </a></strong><br> We're bringing a firkin of Hopslam to St. Louis! Call 314-621-4333 for more information. This event starts at 6 p.m. – don’t be late.</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>Feb. 3</h3> <p><strong>World of Beer's Firkin Friday – Raleigh</strong><br><a href="http://northhills.wobusa.com/">North Hills World of Beer</a> will be tapping their first firkin at 5 p.m. Come out and have a pint of Bell's Special Double Cream Stout to start your weekend off right. Call 919-784-9261 for more information.</p> <h2>North Dakota</h2> <h3>Jan. 31</h3> <p><strong>Stout night at <a href="http://thewalrusrestaurant.com/">The Walrus</a></strong><br>Sample eight stouts on tap in Bismarck starting at 7 p.m.: Kalamazoo Stout, Special Double Cream Stout, Java Stout, Cherry Stout, Expedition Stout, Harry Magill's Spiced Stout, Rye Stout and Oatmeal Stout. Wear a kilt and Bell's Sales Rep. Jason Gillum will buy you a pint. Call 701-250-0020 for more information.</p> <h3>Feb. 3</h3> <p><strong>Two Hearted cask</strong><br>Enjoy a fresh pint of Two Hearted Ale from a cask at <a href="http://toastedfrog.com/">The Toasted Frog</a> in Bismarck at 6:30 p.m. Call 701-751-2229 for more information.</p> <h3>Feb. 4</h3> <p><strong>Pitch University-Beer 101, hosted by Bell’s Brewery</strong><br>Jason Gillum, Bell's Brewery Sales Rep., will lead this class on beer and all things Bell's at <a href="http://rezaspitch.com/">Reza's Pitch</a> in Bismarck. This event is free and will also feature Two Hearted Ale. Call 701-390-1005 for more information.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>Feb. 2</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam firkin tapping in Dayton </strong><br> Stop by<a href="http://southparktavern.com/"> South Park Tavern</a> at 6 p.m. for a cask of Hopslam. Call 937-586-9526 for more information.</p> <h2>Virginia</h2> <h3>Feb. 1</h3> <p><strong>The Bell's Bust Out! &nbsp;</strong><br> This event begins at 5 p.m. and will feature five Bell's beers on tap at <a href="http://www.beerrun.com/">Beer Run in Charlottesville</a>: Hopslam Ale, Hopsoulution, Quinannan Falls Special Lager, The Oracle DIPA and Two Hearted Ale. Call 434-984-2337 for more information.</p> <h2>Wisconsin</h2> <h3>Jan. 31</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam tasting at <a href="http://www.nomadworldpub.com/">Nomad World Pub</a></strong><br>Join us for a taste of this year's Hopslam in Milwaukee at 7:30 p.m. Call 414-224-8111 for more information.</p> <h3>Feb. 2</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam, Black Note and jazz in Milwaukee</strong><br>Join us for a tasting of Hopslam and Black Note along with some jazz at <a href="http://www.burnheartsbar.com/">Burnhearts</a> at 7 p.m. Call 414-294-0490&nbsp;for more information.</p> <h2>Georgia</h2> <h3>Feb. 3</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Bowl at Aromas</strong><br>In celebration of the Big Game, Bell's will be taking over the taps for the weekend at <a href="http://www.aromaswinebar.com">Aromas Wine and Craft Beer Bar</a>. Kegs will be tapped at 6 p.m. Friday and at 2 p.m. Saturday. Black Note, Hopslam and Hopsoulution will be there, just to name a few! Call 706-208-0059&nbsp;for more information.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>A tap takeover at Sheffield's in Chicago, RYE happy hour in Ohio, Hopslam events and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look at our complete event calendar here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-01-30T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell’s experimental hop series will feature 7 different styles of beer exclusive to the Eccentric Cafe http://bellsbeer.com/news/73-Bell%E2%80%99s%20experimental%20hop%20series%20will%20feature%207%20different%20styles%20of%20beer%20exclusive%20to%20the%20Eccentric%20Cafe <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/43f839260663ca3c0b7e13203588d290.jpg" alt="EXPhops.jpg" height="416" width="330">KALAMAZOO - If you’ve visited the<a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/"> Eccentric Café</a> or checked<a title="Draft List" href="/eccentric-cafe/beers-on-tap/"> the tap cam</a> recently, you may have noticed an odd name on the big board above the bar.</p> <p>Beside more familiar names like Two Hearted Ale, Amber Ale and Kalamazoo Stout was something more formal – EXP Hop 2011-1. This experimental beer was just the beginning of a series of brews that will only be available at our pub in downtown Kalamazoo.</p> <p>This experimental hop series will continue with six additional beers, each brewed using a different type of hop and released over the next few months. The overall goal is to explore the aromatic qualities of each and assess their potential for future brewing.</p> <p>“This is a series of beers where we are actually working hand in hand with hop growers. Just like brewers, hop growers are also looking to expand the flavor profiles available to craft beer drinkers and we are very fortunate to have this kind of unique access,” said Andy Farrell, one of Bell’s brewers working on the project.</p> <p>The series started with a newly developed hop now named Zythos, which is in its first year of commercial use. The rest of the series will feature hop varietals coming straight from the growers’ trial plots; these have yet to been formally named and are still designated with numbers. They are very limited both in quantity and availability, arriving as single bales or even mini-bales <em>(photo at right)</em>.</p> <p>While a few of the beers in this series have been brewed, most are still in the planning stages. Rather than brewing multiple variations of a basic pale ale, this project will match each hop to a different style aimed to showcase the varietal’s range &amp; versatility. Below is a brief rundown of which hops we will be using in this series, along with aroma descriptions from our bale assessments to get you acquainted.</p> <p>We’re tremendously excited about this opportunity to work with hop growers from the Pacific Northwest in evaluating these new varietals, and we think you’ll enjoy this window into the future of American hops. Look for more information about each here on our blog and on our social media sites (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/BellsBreweryInc">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/#%21/BellsBrewery">Twitter </a>and <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/b/109244532904663173500/109244532904663173500/posts">Google+</a>) as we go forward.</p> <p><em>The hops used in this series:</em></p> <p><strong>EXP Hop 2011-1:</strong> Zythos &nbsp;– Citrusy, with a bright grapefruit note and apricot &amp; pine aromas in the background</p> <p><strong>EXP Hop 2011-2:</strong> Type 366 – Tropical fruit notes and piney, reminiscent of Simcoe hops&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>EXP Hop 2011-3:</strong> Type 509 – Floral, with an interesting herbal note&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>EXP Hop 2012-1:</strong> Type 423 – Very pungent fruity &amp; floral aroma, with pine as a secondary note</p> <p><strong>EXP Hop 2012-2:</strong> Type 556 – Intense floral character with fruity undertones&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>EXP Hop 2012-3: </strong>Type 998-13-1 – Distinctive lemon notes</p> <p><strong>EXP Hop 2012-4:</strong> Type 291 – Citrus &amp; pine notes, very pungent</p> <p>To see if any if any of these beers are currently on tap at the Cafe, <a title="Draft List" href="/eccentric-cafe/beers-on-tap/">take a look at our Draft Cam</a>.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-01-27T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Homebrewing guide, Eccentric Café chili recipe now available to download http://bellsbeer.com/news/72-Homebrewing%20guide%2C%20Eccentric%20Caf%C3%A9%20chili%20recipe%20now%20available%20to%20download <p><img style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/01608506f77636336c4abf13ff6b9cc1.JPG" alt="IMG_2240.JPG" height="218" width="304"> <a title="General Store" href="/index.php?cID=139">The General Store's</a> David Curtis and Ryan Kramer recently led a homebrewing demonstration as part of <a href="http://www.kalamazoobeerweek.com/">Kalamazoo Beer Week</a> at the<a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/"> Eccentric Café</a>.</p> <p>A five gallon batch of amber ale was brewed in honor of Bell’s flagship beer, Amber Ale.</p> <p>We had a great turnout and want to thank everyone who joined us.</p> <p>If you would like a copy of the handout from the event, you can download a PDF version (also includes basic steps to your first bottling day) here: <a href="/index.php/download_file/view/661/63/">BellsHomebrewNotes.pdf</a></p> <p>The Eccentric Café also participated in the 2012 Downtown Kalamazoo Chili Cook-off. If you were unable to get a sample or simply want another taste at home, you can download the smoked buffalo and black bean chili recipe here as well: <a href="/index.php/download_file/view/662/63/">SmokedBuffaloChili.pdf</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-01-26T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Black Note, Hopslam, a frozen golf outing and more this week http://bellsbeer.com/news/71-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Black%20Note%2C%20Hopslam%2C%20a%20frozen%20golf%20outing%20and%20more%20this%20week <p>Here is a look at Bell’s beer events coming up this week in Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota and Kentucky.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Jan. 24</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam release party</strong><br><a href="http://www.northdownchicago.com">Northdown Café and Taproom</a> in Chicago will tap their keg at 6 p.m. Oarsman Ale will be on tap and other Bell’s bottles will be featured as well. Call <span class="skype_pnh_print_container_1327500259">773-697-7578</span><span tabindex="-1" dir="ltr" class="skype_pnh_container"><span class="skype_pnh_mark"> begin_of_the_skype_highlighting</span>&nbsp;<span dir="ltr" title="Call this phone number in United States of America with Skype: +17736977578" class="skype_pnh_highlighting_inactive_common"><span title="Skype actions" skypeaction="skype_dropdown" class="skype_pnh_left_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" title="Skype actions" class="skype_pnh_dropart_span"><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" style="background-position:-5849px 1px !important;" class="skype_pnh_dropart_flag_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span class="skype_pnh_textarea_span"><span class="skype_pnh_text_span">773-697-7578</span></span><span class="skype_pnh_right_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span>&nbsp;<span class="skype_pnh_mark">end_of_the_skype_highlighting</span></span> for more information.</p> <h3>Jan. 25</h3> <p><strong>Bell's beer dinner</strong><br>A five beer, four course dinner at <a href="http://branch27.com/">Branch 27</a> in Chicago will start at 7:30 p.m. &nbsp;Space is limited. Call <span class="skype_pnh_print_container_1327500259">312-850-2700</span><span tabindex="-1" dir="ltr" class="skype_pnh_container"><span class="skype_pnh_mark"> begin_of_the_skype_highlighting</span>&nbsp;<span dir="ltr" title="Call this phone number in United States of America with Skype: +13128502700" class="skype_pnh_highlighting_inactive_common"><span title="Skype actions" skypeaction="skype_dropdown" class="skype_pnh_left_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" title="Skype actions" class="skype_pnh_dropart_span"><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" style="background-position:-5849px 1px !important;" class="skype_pnh_dropart_flag_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span class="skype_pnh_textarea_span"><span class="skype_pnh_text_span">312-850-2700</span></span><span class="skype_pnh_right_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span>&nbsp;<span class="skype_pnh_mark">end_of_the_skype_highlighting</span></span> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Black Note tapping</strong><a href="../../../../../events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1661"><br></a><a href="http://www.tribesalehouse.com/">Tribes Alehouse</a> in Mokena will feature this rare and elusive beer along with Hell Hath No Fury … Ale at 4 p.m. Call <span class="skype_pnh_print_container_1327500259">815-464-0248</span><span tabindex="-1" dir="ltr" class="skype_pnh_container"><span class="skype_pnh_mark"> begin_of_the_skype_highlighting</span>&nbsp;<span dir="ltr" title="Call this phone number in United States of America with Skype: +18154640248" class="skype_pnh_highlighting_inactive_common"><span title="Skype actions" skypeaction="skype_dropdown" class="skype_pnh_left_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" title="Skype actions" class="skype_pnh_dropart_span"><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" style="background-position:-5849px 1px !important;" class="skype_pnh_dropart_flag_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span class="skype_pnh_textarea_span"><span class="skype_pnh_text_span">815-464-0248</span></span><span class="skype_pnh_right_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span>&nbsp;<span class="skype_pnh_mark">end_of_the_skype_highlighting</span></span> for more information.</p> <h2>Wisconsin</h2> <h3>Jan. 25</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam and Black Note tasting</strong><br>Join us for a special tapping at <a href="http://malthousetavern.com/">The Malthouse</a> in Madison of this year's Hopslam along with Black Note Bourbon Barrel Aged Stout, a special blend of Special Double Cream Stout and Expedition Stout aged in freshly retired oak bourbon barrels, starting at 7 p.m.</p> <h3>Jan. 26</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam and Black Note release party</strong><br><a href="http://www.bodegabrewpublax.com/%20">Bodega Brew Pub</a> in La Crosse will tap these two beers at 7 p.m. Call <span class="skype_pnh_print_container_1327500259">608-782-0677</span><span tabindex="-1" dir="ltr" class="skype_pnh_container"><span class="skype_pnh_mark"> begin_of_the_skype_highlighting</span>&nbsp;<span dir="ltr" title="Call this phone number in United States of America with Skype: +16087820677" class="skype_pnh_highlighting_inactive_common"><span title="Skype actions" skypeaction="skype_dropdown" class="skype_pnh_left_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" title="Skype actions" class="skype_pnh_dropart_span"><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" style="background-position:-5849px 1px !important;" class="skype_pnh_dropart_flag_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span class="skype_pnh_textarea_span"><span class="skype_pnh_text_span">608-782-0677</span></span><span class="skype_pnh_right_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span>&nbsp;<span class="skype_pnh_mark">end_of_the_skype_highlighting</span></span> for more information.</p> <h3>Jan. 28</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Waterfront Frozen Golf Outing<br></strong>Registration starts at noon for this event at Waterfront Bar and Grill in Menomonie - six holes, four person teams, one golf club and tennis balls. Call <span class="skype_pnh_print_container_1327500259">715-235-6541</span><span tabindex="-1" dir="ltr" class="skype_pnh_container"><span class="skype_pnh_mark"> begin_of_the_skype_highlighting</span>&nbsp;<span dir="ltr" title="Call this phone number in United States of America with Skype: +17152356541" class="skype_pnh_highlighting_inactive_common"><span title="Skype actions" skypeaction="skype_dropdown" class="skype_pnh_left_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" title="Skype actions" class="skype_pnh_dropart_span"><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" style="background-position:-5849px 1px !important;" class="skype_pnh_dropart_flag_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span class="skype_pnh_textarea_span"><span class="skype_pnh_text_span">715-235-6541</span></span><span class="skype_pnh_right_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span>&nbsp;<span class="skype_pnh_mark">end_of_the_skype_highlighting</span></span> for more information.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Jan. 25</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam firkin, Black Note tapping</strong><br>Sample Black Note and a firkin of Hopslam at <a href="http://www.7monkstap.com%20">7 Monks Taproom</a> in Traverse City starting at 7 p.m. Call <span class="skype_pnh_print_container_1327500259">231-421-8410</span><span tabindex="-1" dir="ltr" class="skype_pnh_container"><span class="skype_pnh_mark"> begin_of_the_skype_highlighting</span>&nbsp;<span dir="ltr" title="Call this phone number in United States of America with Skype: +12314218410" class="skype_pnh_highlighting_inactive_common"><span title="Skype actions" skypeaction="skype_dropdown" class="skype_pnh_left_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" title="Skype actions" class="skype_pnh_dropart_span"><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" style="background-position:-5849px 1px !important;" class="skype_pnh_dropart_flag_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span class="skype_pnh_textarea_span"><span class="skype_pnh_text_span">231-421-8410</span></span><span class="skype_pnh_right_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span>&nbsp;<span class="skype_pnh_mark">end_of_the_skype_highlighting</span></span> for more information.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Jan. 24</h3> <p><strong>Festival of Hops</strong><br><a href="http://muddypig.com/">Muddy Pig's</a> Festival of Hops will include a rare tapping of Hopslam in St. Paul. Call <span class="skype_pnh_print_container_1327500259">651-254-1030</span><span tabindex="-1" dir="ltr" class="skype_pnh_container"><span class="skype_pnh_mark"> begin_of_the_skype_highlighting</span>&nbsp;<span dir="ltr" title="Call this phone number in United States of America with Skype: +16512541030" class="skype_pnh_highlighting_inactive_common"><span title="Skype actions" skypeaction="skype_dropdown" class="skype_pnh_left_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" title="Skype actions" class="skype_pnh_dropart_span"><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" style="background-position:-5849px 1px !important;" class="skype_pnh_dropart_flag_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span class="skype_pnh_textarea_span"><span class="skype_pnh_text_span">651-254-1030</span></span><span class="skype_pnh_right_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span>&nbsp;<span class="skype_pnh_mark">end_of_the_skype_highlighting</span></span> for more information.</p> <h3>Jan. 26</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam cask tapping in Minneapolis</strong><br><a href="http://www.thebulldognortheast.com/">The Bulldog Northeast</a> will tap a cask of Hopslam at 5 p.m. Call <span class="skype_pnh_print_container_1327500259">612-378-2855</span><span tabindex="-1" dir="ltr" class="skype_pnh_container"><span class="skype_pnh_mark"> begin_of_the_skype_highlighting</span>&nbsp;<span dir="ltr" title="Call this phone number in United States of America with Skype: +16123782855" class="skype_pnh_highlighting_inactive_common"><span title="Skype actions" skypeaction="skype_dropdown" class="skype_pnh_left_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" title="Skype actions" class="skype_pnh_dropart_span"><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" style="background-position:-5849px 1px !important;" class="skype_pnh_dropart_flag_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span class="skype_pnh_textarea_span"><span class="skype_pnh_text_span">612-378-2855</span></span><span class="skype_pnh_right_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span>&nbsp;<span class="skype_pnh_mark">end_of_the_skype_highlighting</span></span> for more information.</p> <h3>Jan. 27</h3> <p><strong>Hopslam cask in downtown Minneapolis</strong><br><a href="http://grumpys-bar.com/downtown/">Grumpy's Bar &amp; Grill</a> will tap a cask at noon and offer a small appetizer pairing as well. Call <span class="skype_pnh_print_container_1327500259">612-340-9738</span><span tabindex="-1" dir="ltr" class="skype_pnh_container"><span class="skype_pnh_mark"> begin_of_the_skype_highlighting</span>&nbsp;<span dir="ltr" title="Call this phone number in United States of America with Skype: +16123409738" class="skype_pnh_highlighting_inactive_common"><span title="Skype actions" skypeaction="skype_dropdown" class="skype_pnh_left_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" title="Skype actions" class="skype_pnh_dropart_span"><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" style="background-position:-5849px 1px !important;" class="skype_pnh_dropart_flag_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span class="skype_pnh_textarea_span"><span class="skype_pnh_text_span">612-340-9738</span></span><span class="skype_pnh_right_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span>&nbsp;<span class="skype_pnh_mark">end_of_the_skype_highlighting</span></span> for more information.</p> <h3>Jan. 28</h3> <p><strong>Bell's at T<a href="http://www.thebeerdabbler.com">he Winter Carnival Beer Dabbler</a></strong><br>Join Jason Gillum for a number of rare Bell's beers including Raspberry Ale, Le Pianist, Le Battuer, and Sparkling Ale at the St. Paul Farmers Market from 4-8 p.m.</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>Jan. 28<a href="../../../../../events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1610"></a></h3> <p><strong>Bell's multi-tap event <br></strong>This tap takeover at <a href="http://kybeerengine.com/">Beer Engine</a> in Danville will feature nine Bell’s beers on tap starting at 4 p.m. including Quinannan Falls Special Lager, Hopslam, The Oracle, Hell Hath No Fury … Ale, Expedition Stout, Winter White, Amber Ale, Kalamazoo Stout and Pale Ale. Call <span class="skype_pnh_print_container_1327500259">859-209-4211</span><span tabindex="-1" dir="ltr" class="skype_pnh_container"><span class="skype_pnh_mark"> begin_of_the_skype_highlighting</span>&nbsp;<span dir="ltr" title="Call this phone number in United States of America with Skype: +18592094211" class="skype_pnh_highlighting_inactive_common"><span title="Skype actions" skypeaction="skype_dropdown" class="skype_pnh_left_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" title="Skype actions" class="skype_pnh_dropart_span"><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" style="background-position:-5849px 1px !important;" class="skype_pnh_dropart_flag_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span class="skype_pnh_textarea_span"><span class="skype_pnh_text_span">859-209-4211</span></span><span class="skype_pnh_right_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span>&nbsp;<span class="skype_pnh_mark">end_of_the_skype_highlighting</span></span>&nbsp;for more information.</p> <h3>Jan. 29<a href="../../../../../events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1652"></a></h3> <p><strong>Bell's beer dinner</strong><br>This five course meal at <a href="http://www.pazzospizzapub.com/">Pazzo's Pizza Pub</a> in Lexington will be paired with Amber Ale, Best Brown Ale, Cherry Stout, Bell's Lager Beer, Oarsman Ale and Two Hearted starting at 6 p.m. Call <span class="skype_pnh_print_container_1327500259">859-255-5125</span><span tabindex="-1" dir="ltr" class="skype_pnh_container"><span class="skype_pnh_mark"> begin_of_the_skype_highlighting</span>&nbsp;<span dir="ltr" title="Call this phone number in United States of America with Skype: +18592555125" class="skype_pnh_highlighting_inactive_common"><span title="Skype actions" skypeaction="skype_dropdown" class="skype_pnh_left_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" title="Skype actions" class="skype_pnh_dropart_span"><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" style="background-position:-5849px 1px !important;" class="skype_pnh_dropart_flag_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span class="skype_pnh_textarea_span"><span class="skype_pnh_text_span">859-255-5125</span></span><span class="skype_pnh_right_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span>&nbsp;<span class="skype_pnh_mark">end_of_the_skype_highlighting</span></span>&nbsp;for more information.</p> <h2>Still looking for Hopslam?</h2> <p>For more Hopslam events in your area coming up,<a href="http://bellsbeer.com/blog/67-Previous/?list=1"> take a look at our previous blog post.</a></p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Next week Bell’s will be at ChurchKey, hosting a Super Bell’s party in Indianapolis, tapping a Hopslam firkin in St. Louis and more. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Take a look at our calendar for more.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-01-23T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Larry Bell honored with inaugural Tom Burns Award by Michigan Brewers Guild http://bellsbeer.com/news/70-Larry%20Bell%20honored%20with%20inaugural%20Tom%20Burns%20Award%20by%20Michigan%20Brewers%20Guild <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/b2574c8aae555e757507b1e88225379a.jpg" alt="BurnsAward.jpg" height="299" width="443">BELLAIRE &nbsp;– Nearly 200 leaders in Michigan’s craft brewing industry were present at the <a href="http://michiganbrewersguild.businesscatalyst.com/">Michigan Brewers Guild</a> annual conference at <a href="http://www.shantycreek.com/">Shanty Creek Resort</a> in Bellaire last week, where the inaugural Tom Burns Award was presented to Larry Bell, president and founder of Bell’s Brewery, Inc.</p> <p>The award recognizes the pioneering spirit of the “Great Beer State” and is named after Tom Burns, founder and brewer of Detroit &amp; Mackinac Brewing Co., who passed away from cancer in 1994.</p> <p>Burns, a “recovering attorney,” had a passion for brewing and is credited with many of the advancements in brewing legislation, rules, and regulations in the 1990s and paving the way for a thriving craft beer industry here in Michigan, which is currently ranked fifth nationally.</p> <p>Laura Bell, Marketing Director for Bell’s Brewery Inc., accepted the award on behalf of her father, who was out of the country and unable to attend. She read a letter sent from her father, addressed to the group:</p> <blockquote> <p>“Everyone in this room has been affected by Tom's efforts back in the nineties. His push for, and success at getting brewpub language adopted in the state laws paved the way for what is now one of the most dynamic brewery scenes in the USA. While there may be those today that think that trading away self distribution wasn't right, Tom and I thought we cut a pretty damn good deal, and I still think that.</p> <p>Tom was able to get legislation enacted because he knew the importance of building consensus, and he knew that it was essential to have dialogue with all of the legislators involved, as well as reaching out openly, and with a eye toward fairness, to Michigan's wholesalers; he respected the realities of the situation while trying to enact change. And enact change he did.</p> <p>I am glad that we are honoring Tom as I feel that his contributions to the early days of craft brewing are often buried by people who want to take more credit than they deserve. He was one of those people who was there at the dawn of the movement. I have in my collection a bottle of "Legal Lager" that Tom brewed at the Cartwright Brewing Co. in Portland back in the early eighties when, I believe he was in law school. He brewed at the goat shed with Boulder Brewing. And he was in on the start of the then American Homebrewers Association Beer Festival, now the <a href="http://www.greatamericanbeerfestival.com/">GABF (Great American Beer Festival</a>).</p> <p>It was heartbreaking to see Tom get sick. Having been through a "mild" cancer myself I have an inkling of the terror it brings to one’s soul. But Tom was always upbeat when I saw him and never became morose, even as his diagnosis got worse.</p> <p>I was very honored to be asked by Priscilla (Tom's widow) to be the brewer representative pall bearer at Tom's funeral. It was a difficult day for me. To see one's contemporary die too young is a very troubling thing. After the funeral service&nbsp;we went to <a href="http://www.tomsoysterbar.com/">Tom's Oyster Bar</a>, a place Mr. Burns loved to go, and I stood in for him – singing show tunes with the piano player as a way to pay my respects. Tom loved a good show tune. And a great beer.</p> <p>Though Tom's life was too short, he left an important legacy that&nbsp;we all&nbsp;can honor and that honors us all. I was proud to&nbsp;call him a friend and I am proud of the Guild for honoring him today. So please, let's raise our glass and toast Tom Burns.”&nbsp;</p> </blockquote> <p>To read the full press release, <a href="http://promotemichigannews.blogspot.com/2012/01/michigan-brewers-guild-presents.html">go here.</a></p> <p><strong><em>PHOTO CAPTION </em></strong></p> <p><strong>From left:</strong> Larry Bell, Detroit City Councilwoman Maryann Mahaffey, Sen. Eugene McCarthy, and Tom Burns, for whom the Michigan Brewers Guild award was named, at the old Tiger Stadium on July 11, 1991.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-01-18T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Complete list: Bell’s Brewery events for Kalamazoo Beer Week, Jan. 14-21 http://bellsbeer.com/news/69-Complete%20list%3A%20Bell%E2%80%99s%20Brewery%20events%20for%20Kalamazoo%20Beer%20Week%2C%20Jan.%2014-21 <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/ffb6112a3567e5bd88122f642d775dd5.jpg" alt="MinutetoWinIt.jpg" height="256" width="384">The second <a href="http://www.kalamazoobeerweek.com/">Kalamazoo Beer Week</a> kicks-off Jan. 14 and runs through Jan. 21. More than 90 events are scheduled throughout the week. Here is a list of Bell's events at the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Café</a> as well as a few other locations in Kalamazoo.</p> <h3>Jan. 14</h3> <p><strong>Brewery tours:</strong> Start Kalamazoo Beer Week with a free tour of our original brewery in downtown Kalamazoo. <a title="Tours" href="/tours/">More details about our weekend tours can be found here.</a></p> <h3>Jan. 15</h3> <p><strong>Aged beers and smoked meats:</strong> Join us for a tasting of selected aged beers and meats from our house smoker all day.</p> <p><strong>Brewery tours:</strong> We have added two additional tours of our original brewery at 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m., in addition to our regularly scheduled tours at 1:30 and 2:30 p.m.</p> <h3>Jan. 16</h3> <p><strong>Beer and cheese throw down: </strong>Bell’s will kick-off this four night event at <a href="http://fooddance.net/">Food Dance</a> in downtown Kalamazoo with three beers paired with three different cheeses. What did we choose? You’ll have to stop by and vote for your favorite. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1612">More details can be found here.</a></p> <h3><img style="float: left; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/9dec1e99dc9397c7b1cdce929ee9e7f4.jpg" alt="333132_204545126293845_199350326813325_465276_256651186_o.jpg" height="146" width="146">Jan. 17</h3> <p><strong>Movies and Bell’s beer:</strong> Relax in front of the big screen with showings of “Strange Brew” and “Beerfest,” plus a special keg of Bell’s beer starting at 7 p.m.</p> <h3>Jan. 18</h3> <p><strong>Learn to homebrew:</strong> In honor of Bell’s flagship beer, the General Store’s homebrew experts, David Curtis and Ryan Kramer, will brew five gallons of amber ale. They will guide you through the entire process and answer all of your questions. This demonstration will start at 6 p.m. All skill levels are welcome for this casual event.</p> <p><strong>Minute to Win It at <a href="http://www.shakespearespub.com/">Shakespeare’s Pub</a>:</strong> At 9 p.m., we’ll kick-off five rounds of 60-second games and beer related trivia along with five featured Bell’s beers including a special keg of Golden Rye. For more information, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1611">go here</a>. Take a look at <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/bellsbreweryinc/sets/72157627766708054/">photos from our previous "Minute" event here.</a></p> <h3>Jan. 19</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s beer dinner:</strong> <a href="http://parkclub.net/">The Park Club of Kalamazoo</a> will open its doors for this special event hosted by our very own, Laura Bell. Reservations are required and space is limited. Social hour is at 6 p.m. and dinner will be served at 7 p.m. Call <span class="skype_pnh_print_container_1326723292">269-381-0876</span><span tabindex="-1" dir="ltr" class="skype_pnh_container"><span class="skype_pnh_mark"> begin_of_the_skype_highlighting</span>&nbsp;<span dir="ltr" title="Call this phone number in United States of America with Skype: +12693810876" class="skype_pnh_highlighting_inactive_common"><span title="Skype actions" skypeaction="skype_dropdown" class="skype_pnh_left_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" title="Skype actions" class="skype_pnh_dropart_span"><span skypeaction="skype_dropdown" style="background-position:-5849px 1px !important;" class="skype_pnh_dropart_flag_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span class="skype_pnh_textarea_span"><span class="skype_pnh_text_span">269-381-0876</span></span><span class="skype_pnh_right_span">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span>&nbsp;<span class="skype_pnh_mark">end_of_the_skype_highlighting</span></span> for more information.</p> <p><strong>Bell’s throwback night:</strong> Back in the day, ping pong was the company sport and rounds of passionate, intense play were a fixture in what is now the Café’s mezzanine. &nbsp;We’re bringing it back starting at 6 p.m. &nbsp;We’re also going to throw “Balls of Fury” up on the screen for inspiration along with a repeat screening of “Strange Brew.”</p> <p><strong>Also:</strong> Wear your favorite Bell’s t-shirt and get a $1 off your beer – game point.</p> <h3>Jan. 20</h3> <p><strong>UPDATED TIME - Beer tasting at <a href="http://www.kalamazoowine.com/">Salut Fine Wine &amp; Spirits</a>:</strong> Sample Bell’s beers and food and ask questions from 5:30-8:30 p.m.</p> <p><strong>At the Café:</strong> <a href="http://bigdudeeroo.bandcamp.com/">Big Dudee Roo</a> will perform at 9:30 p.m.</p> <h3>Jan. 21</h3> <p><strong>Chili cook-off:</strong> The Eccentric Café will be an official stop on this year's Big Chill Chili Cook Off. Stop by and see what eccentric creation our kitchen has come up with. And don’t forget to vote! For more on the cook-off, <a href="http://www.downtownkalamazoo.org/Visit/Events/2011-Big-Chil-Chilli-Cook---Winter-Adventure.aspx">go here</a>.</p> <p><strong>Brewery tours: </strong>You can also tour our original brewery at 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.</p> <p><strong>At the Cafe: </strong><a href="http://thevervepipe.com">The Verve Pipe</a> will perform in the Back Room at 9:30 p.m.</p> <p><em>Photo caption: File photo from our previous Minute to Win It event at Shakespeare's Pub.</em></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-01-13T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Ode to Hopslam: These craft beer poets were inspired by Bell’s seasonal DIPA http://bellsbeer.com/news/68-Ode%20to%20%20Hopslam%3A%20These%20craft%20beer%20poets%20were%20inspired%20by%20Bell%E2%80%99s%20seasonal%20DIPA <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/2463e65bbf5a5692d7d72890c48a88a2.png" alt="HopSlam_GlassBtl.png" height="504" width="347">On Monday, our very own David Munro, with help from <a href="http://www.annarborbeer.com/">beer writer David Bardallis</a>, picked three Hopslam poets to win one of the very first pours of our seasonal rendition of the Double India Pale Ale style for 2012 at <a href="http://www.ashleys.com/">Ashley’s in Ann Arbor,</a> Michigan.</p> <p>More than 30 entries were submitted, some prewritten, others crafted on napkins and coasters in the hour leading up to the judging deadline.</p> <p>Here are the top three followed by a few of the many that also came to us via our social media sites (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/BellsBreweryInc">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/#%21/BellsBrewery">Twitter </a>and <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/b/109244532904663173500/109244532904663173500/posts">Google+</a>).</p> <p>Enjoy.</p> <p>(If you feel inspired to put pen to paper, we would love to take a look. <a href="mailto:jsmith@bellsbeer.com">Email your prose here</a>.)<br><br> hopslammed! damn... I am!<br> thanks, ma'am, or sir, as it were<br> bright hop profusion<br> sweet honey soothes, so divine<br> two grand peers entwine<br> what a lovely afterglow<br> <br><em><strong> - Fran Hull (first place)</strong></em><br> <br> Those tart hoppy notes<br> Tickle the back of my throat<br> Big smile on my face<br> <br> The high gravity<br> Alcohol fruit fantasy<br> Gotta buy a case<br> <br><em><strong> - David Mickey-Pabello (second place - Hopslam brew double haiku)</strong></em><br> <br>Oh bountiful hops<br> A delight in bitterness<br> GET IN MAH BELLY!</p> <p><em><strong>- Karla Metzger (third place)</strong></em></p> <p>There is a brewer named Bell.<br> Who makes great beers really swell<br> When he got in a jam<br> He created Hopslam<br> And now the world is all well.</p> <p><em><strong>- Roy More, via Facebook</strong></em></p> <p>Pop the Hopslam top, into my gullet she flows, shoulda bought a case.</p> <p><em><strong>- Michael Troutwine, via Facebook</strong></em></p> <p>Slammed Full Of Hops<br> Malt, Grain, Yeast and lots of Love<br> Hop Heads Rejoice Now!</p> <p><em><strong>- J. Chandler Hall, via Google+</strong></em></p> <p><strong>Looking for Hopslam in your area? </strong><a href="http://bellsbeer.com/blog/">Here are a few events to get you started on our blog (updated as we get them).</a> You can also <a title="Beer Finder" href="/beer-finder/">consult our Beer Finder</a>.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-01-11T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Looking for Hopslam? Here are a few events featuring Bell's seasonal beer http://bellsbeer.com/news/67-Looking%20for%20Hopslam%3F%20Here%20are%20a%20few%20events%20featuring%20Bell%27s%20seasonal%20beer <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/4612/8386/7472/KBC-HopslamAle-lable.small.crush.png" alt="KBC HopslamAle lable.tif.png" height="352" width="359">Here is a list of some events featuring Hopslam coming up. For more information on Hopslam’s availability near you, please consult our<a title="Beer Finder" href="/beer-finder/"> Beer Finder</a>.</p> <h3>Georgia</h3> <p><strong>Feb. 3-6:</strong> <a href="http://www.aromaswinebar.com">Aromas Wine and Craft Beer Bar</a> will host 10 Bell’s beers on draught including Hopslam. For more information, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1623">go here.</a></p> <p><strong>Feb. 11:</strong> Hopslam will be one the beers featured at the Winter Beer Carnival in Atlanta. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1657">More details here</a>.</p> <h3>Illinois</h3> <p><strong>Jan. 18: </strong>Hopslam tapping at <a href="http://www.tribesalehouse.com/">Tribes Alehouse</a> in Mokena at 4 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 23:</strong> Hopslam tapping at Bauer's Brauhaus in Palatine at 4 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 24:</strong> Hopslam night at<a href="http://www.northdownchicago.com"> Northdown Cafe and Taproom </a>in Chicago at 6 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Feb. 7:</strong> <a href="http://www.sheffieldschicago.com/">Sheffield’s</a> in Chicago will host a Bell’s multi-tap event starting at 8 p.m. Hopslam, Oracle, firkins and food specials will be featured along with many other beers on draft. For more information, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1622">go here</a>.</p> <p><strong>Feb. 16:</strong> This Bell's specialty night at <a href="http://www.hackneysprintersrow.net/">Jackney's Printers' Row </a>in Chicago will feature a firkin of Hopslam plus many other Bell's beers. For more information, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1666">go here.</a></p> <h3>Indiana</h3> <p><strong>Jan. 12:</strong> Hopslam release party at <a href="http://www.chathamtap.com">Chatham Tap Downtow</a>n in Indianapolis at 5 p.m. Winter White, Oarsman, Porter, Two Hearted and Expedition Stout will also be on tap.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 13: </strong>Hopslam tapping at <a href="http://www.triontavern.com">Trion Tavern</a> in Fort Wayne at 7 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 13:</strong> Hopslam release party at <a href="http://eatatbartletts.com/">Bartletts&nbsp;Gourmet Grill</a> &amp; Tavern in Beverly Shores at 5 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 13:</strong> Hopslam release party at <a href="http://www.beergeekspub.com/">Beer Geeks</a> in Highland at 5 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 13:</strong> Hopslam release party at Growlers in Highland.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 13:</strong> Hopslam release party at Flat Rock Tap in Hammond.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 13</strong>: Hopslam release party at <a href="http://www.sonkapub.com/">Sonka's Irish Pub</a> in Terre Haute at 5 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 13:</strong> Hopslam release party at Columbus Bar in Columbus at 5 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan 17:</strong> Midnight Hopslam tapping at <a href="http://www.yogis.com/">Yogi's Bar and Grill</a> in Bloomington.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 18:</strong> Hopslam party featuring a Hopslam firkin and on draft at 5 p.m. at <a href="http://www.fiddlershearth.com/">Fiddler's Hearth</a> in South Bend. Also on tap will be Hell Hath No Fury ... Ale, Sparkling Ale and Two Hearted Ale. There will also be a special food pairing menu for this event. For more details, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1649">go here</a>.</p> <p><strong>Feb. 1:</strong> <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1638">This Super Bell's party</a> at <a href="http://beersellar.net/indy">Beer Sellar Indy</a> will feature 20 Bell's taps including Hopslam. For more information, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1638">go here</a>.</p> <h3>Kentucky</h3> <p><strong>Jan. 10:</strong> Hopslam tapping at <a href="http://keystonebar.com/covington/">Keystone Bar</a> in Convington at 6 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 13: </strong>Hopslam tapping at <a href="http://www.pazzospizzapub.com/">Pazzo's Pizza Pub</a> in Lexington at 4 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 13:</strong> Hopslam tapping at <a href="http://thebeertrappe.com/">The Beer Trappe</a> between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. in Lexington.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 13:</strong> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/LexingtonBeerworks">Lexington Beerworks</a> will celebrate their grand opening with a Hopslam tapping at 8 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 28:</strong> Nine Bell’s beers will be featured at <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1610">this multi-tap event</a> including Hopslam at Beer Engine in Danville.</p> <h3>Ohio</h3> <p><strong>Jan. 13:</strong><a href="http://www.therighteousroom.com/"> The Righteous Room</a> in downtown Cincinnati will tap Hopslam for its happy hour.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 13:</strong> Hopslam tapping at <a href="http://www.swigrestaurantandbar.com/">Swig </a>in Perrysburg at 6 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 13-15:</strong> "The weekend of Hopslam" at <a href="http://www.villageidiotmaumee.com/">The Village Idiot</a> in Maumee.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 13:</strong> Hopslam tapping at <a href="http://www.raysplacekent.com/">Ray's Place</a> in Kent.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 13:</strong> Hopslam tapping at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/101-Bottles-of-Beer-on-the-Wall/252961551382221">101 Bottles</a> in Kent.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 13</strong>: Hopslam tapping at <a href="http://www.riverside-wine.com/">Riverside Wine</a> in Kent.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 14: </strong>Hopslam keg tapping at the Columbus Winter Beer Fest. <a href="http://www.columbusbeerfest.com">More information can be found here.</a></p> <p><strong>Jan. 16:</strong> Hopslam tapping at <a href="http://deagans.com/">Deagan's Kitchen and Bar </a>in Lakewood.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 17:</strong> Hopslam tapping at <a href="http://arthurscincinnati.com/">Arthur's Restaurant</a> in Cincinnati at 4 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 18:</strong> Hopslam tapping at Mike's Bar and Grille in Berea.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 19:</strong> Hopslam tapping at <a href="http://chappystaproom.com/WebPages/index.htm">Chappys Tap Room &amp; Grille</a> at 7 p.m. in Moraine.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 20:</strong> Hopslam tapping at Lucky's Taproom &amp; Eatery in Dayton at 6 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 20:</strong> Hopslam tapping a <a href="http://oneeyeddayton.com/index.php">One Eyed Jacks</a> in Fairborn at 7 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Feb. 2:</strong> Hopslam firkin tapping at <a href="http://southparktavern.com/">South Park Tavern</a> in Daytona at 6 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Feb. 10:</strong> Hopslam tapping at five <a href="http://winkinglizard.com/">Winking Lizard Tavern</a> locations (Cleveland area - Independence, Bedford Heights, Gateway and Mentor; Columbus area - Crosswoods). Please call your preferred location for times.</p> <p><strong>Feb. 10:</strong> Hopslam firkin tapping at <a href="http://theenglishpub.com/">Cock and Bull Public House</a> in Cincinnati at 5 p.m. (Cincinnati Beer Week event).</p> <h3>Michigan</h3> <p><strong>Jan. 9:</strong> Hopslam tapping at <a href="http://www.ashleys.com/">Ashley’s in Ann Arbor</a> at 4:30 p.m. The first official pour will go to the best Hopslam poem or haiku.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 12:</strong> Hopslam firkin tapping at <a href="http://www.CCTapHouse.com">Central City Tap House</a> in Kalamazoo at 5:30 p.m. sharp. Other Bell’s beers will also be featured on draft along with their weekly raw bar.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 12:</strong> Hopslam auto show party at <a href="http://www.grandtrunkpub.com/">Foran's Grand Trunk Pub</a> in Detroit starting at 8 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 12:</strong> Hopslam firkin at <a href="http://www.slowsbarbq.com/">Slows Bar BQ</a> in Detroit at 3 p.m. Bring your best drawing, sketch or doodle featuring Hopslam and you could win the first pour. Entries will be judged from 2-2:50 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 12:</strong> Hopslam release party at <a href="http://diamondjimsmidland.com">Diamond Jim's</a> in Midland at 6 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 13: </strong>Hopslam release party at The Red Baron Food and Spirits in Burton at 6 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 17:</strong> Hopslam release party at <a href="http://www.meanwhilebar.com/">The Meanwhile</a> in Grand Rapids at 7 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 17:</strong> Hopslam tapping at <a href="http://www.7monkstap.com">7 Monks Taproom</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bubbas/115383025158213?sk=info">Bubba's Restaurant &amp; Bar</a> in<strong> Traverse City</strong>. Contact venue for more information.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 18:</strong> Hopslam release party at <a href="http://www.northvillesportsden.com/">Northville Sports Den at 7 p.m</a>.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 25: </strong>A Hopslam firkin will be tapped along with Bell's Black Note at <a href="http://www.7monkstap.com">7 Monks Taproom </a>in Traverse City at 7 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Feb. 3:</strong> Hopslam release party at Plum Market in West Bloomfield at 6:30 p.m. Other Bell’s beers will also be featured along with pizza and beer snacks. This event will also kick-off a month long Bell’s sale. For more information, <a href="http://www.plummarket.com/home/catalog/product/view/id/16898/s/bell-s-brewery-tasting/">go here</a>.</p> <h3>Minnesota</h3> <p><strong>Jan. 20: </strong>Our Bell's night at Patrick's on Third in St. Peter will feature a variety of Bell's beers on tap including Hopslam. For more information, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1663">go here</a>. &nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Jan. 24</strong>:<strong></strong><a href="http://muddypig.com/"> Muddy Pig's</a> Festival of Hops will include a rare tapping of a Hopslam cask in St. Paul at 11:30 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 26:</strong> Bell's Hopslam Cask Tapping at <a href="http://www.thebulldognortheast.com/">Bulldog NE in Minneapolis</a> at 5 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 27:</strong><a href="http://grumpys-bar.com/downtown/"> Grumpy's Bar &amp; Grill</a> in downtown Minneapolis will tap a Hopslam cask at noon&nbsp;and offer a small appetizer pairing as well.</p> <p><strong>Feb. 2:</strong> Hopslam cask tapping at <a href="http://www.thebulldoglowertown.com/">Bulldog Lowertown</a> at 4 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Feb. 3:</strong> Hopslam cask tapping at <a href="http://www.grumpys-bar.com/nordeast/">Grumpy's NE</a> in Minneapolis at 4 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Feb. 8:</strong> Hopslam cask tapping at <a href="http://busterson28th.com/">Buster's on 28th</a> in Minneapolis at 2:30 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Feb. 9:</strong> Hopslam cask tapping at <a href="http://bryantlakebowl.com/">Bryant Lake Bowl </a>in Minneapolis at 6 p.m.</p> <p><strong>March 24:</strong> The <a href="http://thehappygnome.com/">Happy Gnome</a> in St. Paul will feature a cask of Hopslam at this year's Firkin Fest.</p> <h3>Missouri</h3> <p><strong>Jan. 30</strong>: Hopslam cask at <a href="http://www.beerknurd.com/stores/kansascity/">Flying Saucer</a> in Kansas City at 7 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 31</strong><sup> </sup>Beer dinner/Hopslam cask at <a href="http://www.sycamorerestaurant.com/">Sycamore Restaurant</a> in Columbia at 6 p.m. (Please note, this event is sold out.)</p> <p><strong>Feb. 1:</strong> Keg tapping at <a href="http://threekingspub.com/">Three Kings Pub</a> in St. Louis at 5 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Feb. 1:</strong> Hopslam firkin tapping at <a href="http://www.ciceros-stl.com/">Cicero’s</a> in St. Louis (during their Beer School).</p> <p><strong>Feb. 2:</strong> Hopslam firkin tapping at<a href="http://internationaltaphouse.com/"> iTAP (Soulard)</a> in St. Louis at 6 p.m.</p> <h3>Wisconsin</h3> <p><strong>Jan. 13:</strong> Hopslam release party at <a href="http://www.rumpusroommke.com/">The Rumpus Room </a>in Milwaukee at 10 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 25:</strong> Hopslam and Black Note tasting at <a href="http://malthousetavern.com/">The Malthouse</a> in Madison at 7 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 26</strong>: Hopslam and Black Note release party at <a href="http://www.bodegabrewpublax.com/">Bodega Brew Pub</a> in La Crosse at 7 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 29: </strong>This Bell’s beer dinner will feature five courses and five beers including Hopslam at<a href="http://www.barkersbarandgrill.com"> Barker’s Bar &amp; Grill</a> starting at 6 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Jan. 31</strong>: Hopslam tasting at <a href="http://www.nomadworldpub.com/">Nomad World Pub</a> in Milwaukee at 7:30 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Feb. 7:</strong> This beer dinner will feature five breweries and five different restaurants in Milwaukee. Bell’s will team up with the restaurant Tess to present a spicy shrimp soup paired with a firkin of Hopslam. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1616">More details can be found here. </a></p> <p><strong>Feb. 17:</strong> Don't miss <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1693">this beer dinner featuring Hopslam and five other Bell's beers</a> at <a href="http://www.strawberrycreekclub.com/index.php">The Club at Strawberry Fields</a> in Kenosha.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2012-01-06T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Changes in 2012 Hopslam Release http://bellsbeer.com/news/66-Changes%20in%202012%20Hopslam%20Release <p><strong>To our Hopslam customers:</strong></p> <p>Recently, Bell’s issued a press release announcing “release dates” for our Hopslam Ale. Although posted in good faith, the Hopslam press release had some erroneous information.&nbsp;Because of the potential impact of our expansion-related construction &amp; the holiday season on our brewing schedule, we had initially created a relatively conservative release program that focused on a set of specific roll-out dates. Fortunately, we haven’t experienced many of the timing conflicts that we had anticipated in the brewing schedule, and we’re reasonably close to matching the release calendar of prior years. Unfortunately, the newly updated &amp; finalized roll-out timing wasn’t passed on to everyone during all the activity here at the brewery, and I only realized the error after we published the release dates from the previous plan.</p> <p>There will be no hard and fast dates for the release of Hopslam in 2012, but rather, it will be released on a market by market basis as has been our policy in the past.&nbsp; Because this brand has gotten so large for us, and given the production time to make it, this year the total time of release will stretch over a two month period, meaning that some markets will have product well ahead of other markets.&nbsp; And, in fact, some retailers in a given market may receive product before other retailers.&nbsp; We are well aware of the “fairness” issues involved in this process of distribution. However, I believe that this will be our best option.</p> <p>If we were to attempt to have Hopslam released on the same day for all of our customers, then we would have to require our wholesaler partners to inventory the beer, some for up to five weeks, before they could ship it to the retail market. I found this option unacceptable as I believe that Hopslam should be consumed as fresh as possible.&nbsp; While this option would be fairer to our wholesalers and retailers, it would mean sacrificing quality in the name of politics. &nbsp;And in the end, Bell’s tries to deliver quality.</p> <p>All of our wholesalers will receive Hopslam this year.&nbsp; When they get it depends upon the size of their order, our availability and the individual trucking schedules for each wholesaler.&nbsp; Shipping is NOT based on favorability.&nbsp; We will do the best we can to satisfy everyone, all we ask is patience on your part while we brew, package and ship this wonderful ale, while in the meantime try to keep up with our other production.&nbsp; Currently we only have so much fermenter space for dry-hopped ales and we need to keep up our Two Hearted brewing.&nbsp; We are brewing over 5000 barrels of Hopslam this year and it takes us awhile to get all that brewing and dry-hopping done.</p> <p>I apologize for the false information given out earlier.&nbsp; The breakdown in communication lies with me and I am solely responsible for the error. Hopslam will start shipping next week to some of our smaller wholesalers, and shipping will continue through January and February.&nbsp; Thank you for your consideration and understanding of this issue.</p> <p><strong>Larry J. Bell</strong></p> <p><strong>President</strong></p> <p><strong>Bell’s Brewery, Inc.</strong></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-12-30T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News 2012 Bell’s Hopslam release dates announced http://bellsbeer.com/news/65-2012%20Bell%E2%80%99s%20Hopslam%20release%20dates%20announced <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/4612/8386/7472/KBC-HopslamAle-lable.small.crush.png" alt="KBC HopslamAle lable.tif.png" height="352" width="359"></p> <p><em><strong>NOTE: </strong>Please see letter above for important changes to Hopslam's release in 2012.</em></p> <p>Many of you have asked on a variety of platforms (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/BellsBreweryInc">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/#%21/BellsBrewery">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/b/109244532904663173500/109244532904663173500/posts">Google+</a> and <a title="Contact" href="/contact/">via email</a>) when Hopslam will be available. Until now, we could only say January, as important packaging and logistic issues were still being finalized.</p> <p>Today, we have more details for you – actual release dates.</p> <p>Please know that we have been working very hard for months to ensure this beer gets to as many of you, our fans, as soon as possible.</p> <p>To make that happen, there were a number of important factors to consider. One is the dry hopping process, which like Two Hearted Ale, limits how much we can produce at one time. Another very important factor is the $52 million construction and expansion project that is ongoing here in Michigan.</p> <p>Because of these and other factors, Hopslam will be available a little later than in the past.</p> <p>Here are the release dates for Hopslam in 2012.</p> <p><strong>Hopslam on draft:</strong> Jan. 25</p> <p><strong>Hopslam in bottles:</strong> Feb. 8</p> <p>We appreciate everyone’s continued support and patience as we transition into our new brewhouse and look forward to completing this project in 2012.</p> <p>For more information on where Hopslam will be available in your area, <a title="Beer Finder" href="/beer-finder/">please consult our Beer Finder </a>and contact the distributor for your county. You can also contact your favorite bar, retailer or restaurant to inquire if and when they will have it as well.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-12-28T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Reminder: Holiday hours and New Year’s Eve shows at Bell’s Eccentric Café http://bellsbeer.com/news/64-Reminder%3A%20Holiday%20hours%20and%20New%20Year%E2%80%99s%20Eve%20shows%20at%20Bell%E2%80%99s%20Eccentric%20Caf%C3%A9 <p><img style="float: right;" src="/files/5813/2457/7507/NYEPost.jpg" alt="NYEPost.jpg" width="180" height="273">We want to remind everyone that the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Café</a> in downtown Kalamazoo will be closing early on Dec. 24 at 5 p.m. The Café will also be closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1.</p> <p>Please also note that<a title="Tours" href="/tours/"> tours of our original brewery</a> will not be offered Dec. 24 or Dec. 31. Free tours will return Jan. 7.</p> <h3>Plans to ring in the New Year?</h3> <p>You can catch <a href="http://strangement.com/">Strange Arrangement</a> of Chicago not once, but twice at the Cafe.</p> <p>On Dec. 30, they will be joined by special guests The Coop. On New Year’s Eve, Strange Arrangement will be joined by <a href="http://thetwincats.com/">The Twin Cats</a>, who recently announced that they will be heading to the 2012 Super Bowl to serve as the house band for <a href="http://espn.go.com/sportsnation/">ESPN’s SportsNatio</a>n.</p> <p>Tickets are $10 and $15 respectively. Both shows are 21+.<br> <br> You can get tickets for both shows online at <a href="http://bellsbrewery.frontgatetickets.com/" target="_blank">http://bellsbrewery.frontgatetickets.com/</a> or in person at the <a title="General Store" href="/index.php?cID=139">Bell's General Store</a>.</p> <p>Speaking of the new year, you can also purchase advance tickets for three other shows coming up in 2012:</p> <p>• An evening with <a href="http://www.darkstarorchestra.net">Dark Star Orchestra</a> on Feb. 7</p> <p>• An evening with <a href="http://www.cornmealinthekitchen.com/">Cornmeal </a>on Feb. 10</p> <p><a href="http://www.conspiratorband.com/">• Conspirator </a>on Feb. 19</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-12-22T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Beast feast, taco beer dinner, Christmas takes on Hanukkah and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/63-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Beast%20feast%2C%20taco%20beer%20dinner%2C%20Christmas%20takes%20on%20Hanukkah%20and%20more <p>Here is a look at Bell's beer events this week in Pennsylvania, Georgia, Michigan and Indiana.</p> <h2>Pennsylvania</h2> <h3>Dec. 19</h3> <p><strong>Beast Feast at <a href="http://www.momsmaxwellsonmain.com/">M.o.M.'s</a></strong><br>This beer dinner tonight in Doylestown will pair dishes like wild boar tenderloin, grilled buffalo sausage and venison with Bell's Consecrator Doppelbock, Christmas Ale and more. Call 215-340-1880 for more information.</p> <h3>Dec. 21</h3> <p><strong>Celebrate the darkest day of the year at <a href="http://www.devilsdenphilly.com/">Devil's Den</a></strong><br>Black Note, Expedition, Cherry, Double Cream and other Bell's stouts will featured on the longest night of the year in Philadelphia. Call 215-339-0855 for more information.</p> <h2>Georgia</h2> <h3>Dec. 19</h3> <p><strong>Hanukkah vs. Christmas</strong><br><a href="http://www.steinbecksbar.com">Steinbeck's Ale House</a> in Decatur will host this six course beer dinner featuring beer from Bell's and Shmaltz Brewing Co. Tickets are $50 per person. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1583">Take a look at the menu here</a>. Call 404-373-1116 for more information.</p> <h3>Dec, 21</h3> <p><strong>Christmas Xtravaganza at <a href="http://www.themidwaypub.com">Midway Pub</a></strong><br>Bring a canned food donation instead pf paying admission to this holiday celebration featuring Black Note, Christmas Ale, Hopsoulution, Quinannan Falls Special Lager, Sparkling Ale and more. Call 404-684-0335 for more information.<br><br><strong>Special tapping at<a href="http://www.aleyeahbeer.com/"> Ale Yeah</a></strong><br>This all day event will feature Amber Ale, Expedition Stout, Hell Hath No Fury … Ale, Quinannan Falls Special Lager, Two Hearted Ale and Winter White Ale. Call 404-371-4331 for more information.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Dec. 22</h3> <p><strong>Holiday taco and beer dinner</strong><br>This six course beer dinner will feature Two Hearted, Best Brown, Christmas Ale, Winter White, Special Double Cream Stout and Bell's Lager at <a href="http://cityparkgrill.com/">City Park Grill</a> in Petoskey. Call 231-347-0101 for more information. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1588">Check out the full menu here.</a></p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Dec. 23</h3> <p><strong>Deer Park Christmas Party</strong><br>Celebrate the holidays with a firkin of Two Hearted plus Best Brown, Winter White and Christmas Ale starting at 5:30 p.m. at <a href="http://www.deerparkpub.com">Deer Park Pub</a> in Fort Wayne. Call 260-432-8966 for more information.<br><br></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-12-19T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Gift guide: Bell’s for the holidays http://bellsbeer.com/news/62-Gift%20guide%3A%20Bell%E2%80%99s%20for%20the%20holidays <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/8da5c448a920d564d473432a44f36a28.JPG" alt="IMG_1517.JPG" height="310" width="445">Looking for some gift ideas for the holidays? Here are a few suggestions from our <a title="General Store" href="/index.php?cID=139">e-store</a>/<a title="General Store" href="/index.php?cID=139">General Store</a> in downtown Kalamazoo.</p> <h3>Made with Bell’s beer</h3> <p><strong>Gretta’s Goat Milk Soap</strong> is made with our Kalamazoo Stout and organic steel cut oats without artificial colors or synthetic fragrances. Gretta’s also donates 15-percent of all proceeds to help support programs and services for children in Romania who are blind or visually impaired. <em>Note: This item is not available online.</em></p> <h3>Oberon and Two Hearted</h3> <p>Perfect for the fan who just can’t get enough Two Hearted or Oberon Ale, <a href="https://bellsbeer.com/store/categories/Bell%27s-Brewery-Gear/Gift-Sets/">these gift sets</a> come with a t-shirt, bottle opener, pint glasses and a sticker for your car, bike, etc. We also have <a href="https://bellsbeer.com/store/search.php?search_query=towel&amp;x=0&amp;y=0">Oberon beach towels</a> to help remind you of warmer times during these colder months.</p> <h3>Stocking stuffers</h3> <p><a href="https://bellsbeer.com/store/categories/Bell%27s-Brewery-Gear/Paper-Goods/Stickers/">• Stickers are only $1</a> and include free shipping.</p> <p>• All key tools (<a href="https://bellsbeer.com/store/products/Amber-Ale-Key-Tool.html">Amber</a>, <a href="https://bellsbeer.com/store/products/Oberon-Key-Tool.html">Oberon </a>and <a href="https://bellsbeer.com/store/products/Two-Hearted-Ale-Key-Tool.html">Two Hearted Ale</a>) are $4 and also come with free shipping.</p> <h3>The beer</h3> <p>The Bell’s General Store, along with various retailers, give you the option of building that perfect six-pack.</p> <h3>Wear it</h3> <p><a href="https://bellsbeer.com/store/categories/Bell%27s-Brewery-Gear/Apparel/">From hats to t-shirts to cycling jerseys to socks and more,</a> there are plenty of ways to show the world what craft beer you drink, including <a href="https://bellsbeer.com/store/products/Two-Hearted-Ale-Dri%252dDuck%C2%AE-Fishing-Shirt.html">this new embroidered fishing shirt</a>.</p> <h3>Disc golf</h3> <p>Did you know that we sell a variety of <a href="http://www.innovadiscs.com/">Innova </a>and <a href="http://www.discraft.com/">Discraft </a>discs and bags at our General Store at competitive prices?</p> <h3>Brew your own</h3> <p>Everything from homebrewing equipment to ingredients and books, <a href="https://bellsbeer.com/store/categories/Homebrewing-Supplies/">our General Store has you covered</a>. Here are a few examples.</p> <p><a href="https://bellsbeer.com/store/products/Basic-Homebrewing-Gift-Set.html">• This basic beer gift set</a> has everything required to make that first batch off beer, except a stock pot.</p> <p>• Any new to intermediate homebrewer will enjoy <a href="https://bellsbeer.com/store/products/The-Complete-Joy-of-Home-Brewing.html">“The Complete Joy of Home Brewing.”</a></p> <p>We also sell a variety of locally made products including:</p> <p>• <a href="https://bellsbeer.com/store/products/Carboy-Handle-%252d-%22The-Brew-Hauler%22.html">The Brew Hauler (Plainwell)</a></p> <p>• <a href="https://bellsbeer.com/store/products/StirStarter-%252d-Yeast-Starter-Stir-Plate.html">Stir Starter stir plates (southwest Michigan)</a></p> <p>• <a href="https://bellsbeer.com/store/products/Immersion-Wort-Chiller-%252d-Small.html">Wort chillers from Coldbreak Brewing in Grand Rapids</a></p> <h3>Just can’t decide?</h3> <p>The Bell’s General Store also offers <strong>gift cards</strong> that can be purchased in any amount. We can even ship them to you. Call 269-382-5712 for more information.</p> <h3>Important shipping information</h3> <p><strong>Orders must be placed by the end of the day on Dec. 15 in order to ensure delivery before Christmas</strong> (via Bell's Saver Shipping). If you have any questions about which delivery method to choose, please call 269-250-8484. <a href="https://bellsbeer.com/store/pages/Shipping-Information.html">You can also go here for more information.</a></p> <h3>General Store information</h3> <p><strong>For hours and location,</strong> <a title="General Store" href="/index.php?cID=139">go here</a>.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-12-14T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: A firkin of Two Hearted, stout and dessert night, a tap takeover in Ann Arbor and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/61-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20A%20firkin%20of%20Two%20Hearted%2C%20stout%20and%20dessert%20night%2C%20a%20tap%20takeover%20in%20Ann%20Arbor%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/6b31a86e06b45db593cc76225f303f9a.jpg" alt="stout_big.jpg" height="347" width="347">Here is a look at Bell’s beer events coming up this week in Illinois, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Indiana and North Dakota.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Dec. 12</h3> <p><strong>Firkin tapping</strong><br> We will tap a firkin of Two Hearted Ale at <a href="http://bangersandlacechicago.com/">Burgers &amp; Lace</a> in Chicago at 6 p.m. Hell Hath No Fury … Ale, Sparkling Ale and Christmas Ale will also be featured. Call 773-252-6499 for more information.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Dec. 13</h3> <p><strong>Tap takeover in Ann Arbor</strong><br> Join us for a tap takeover at the historic <a href="http://www.oldtownaa.com/">Old Town Tavern</a><span>. On tap will be Batch 10,000, Le <span>Batteur</span> Ale, <span>Quinannan</span> Falls Special Lager, The Oracle DIPA, Two Hearted Ale, Le <span>Pianiste</span> Ale, Raspberry Ale, Deb's Red and Sweet Potato Stout. Call 734-662-9291 for more information.</span></p> <h2>Pennsylvania</h2> <h3>Dec. 15</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s in black and white</strong><br> Catch a showing of “It’s a Wonderful Life” at 7 p.m. paired with Bell’s Winter White and our specialty stouts. Christmas cookies will also be paired with Cherry Stout, Expedition Stout, Java Stout, Kalamazoo Stout and Special Double Cream Stout at <a href="http://www.oldeagletavern.com/">Old Eagle Tavern</a> in Philadelphia. Call 215-483-5535 for more information.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Dec. 12</h3> <p><strong>Bell's multi-tapper</strong><br>We'll have Two Hearted, Sparkling Ale, Special Double Cream Stout, Hell Hath No Fury ... Ale, Christmas Ale, and a cask of Special Double Cream Stout at <a href="http://busterson28th.com/"><span>Buster's on 28<span>th</span></span></a> in Minneapolis starting at 4 p.m.</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Dec. 15</h3> <p><strong>Green drinks nights featuring Bell's Brewery</strong><br>Bell's Sustainability Coordinator, Evan Meffert, will discuss Bell's green initiatives over pints of Amber Ale, Best Brown Ale, Hell Hath No Fury ... Ale, Sparkling Ale, Two Hearted, Pale Ale and Christmas Ale, which is made with barley grown on Bell's Michigan farm at <a href="http://www.aconstantspring.com/">Constant Spring</a> in Goshen. Call 574-533-3302 for more information.</p> <h2>North Dakota</h2> <h3>Dec. 15</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s stout &amp; dessert night</strong><br> <a href="http://www.hoteldonaldson.com">The Ho-Do Lounge</a> in Fargo will offer five stouts, each paired with a unique dessert. Call 701-478-1000 for more information.</p> <h2>Looking ahead to next week</h2> <p><a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Hanukkah takes on Christmas, a true beast feast, the darkest day of the year and a Christmas party in Fort Wayne.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-12-12T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell’s Eccentric Day is Dec. 9: Here are the details http://bellsbeer.com/news/60-Bell%E2%80%99s%20Eccentric%20Day%20is%20Dec.%209%3A%20Here%20are%20the%20details <p><img style="float: left; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" src="/files/cache/719911a374133eac712fc6365a1d7c78.jpg" alt="EccentricAle2010.jpg" height="171" width="172">Bell’s 13<sup>th</sup> annual Eccentric Day is one week from today. Here is what you need to know.</p> <p>• Doors will open at 9 a.m. on Dec. 9.</p> <p>• Eccentric attire is required – come as you aren’t. If you are not dressed for the occasion, you will be turned away at the door.</p> <p>• There is no cover.</p> <p>• There will be eccentric food.</p> <p>• DJ Bowser will provide the tunes.</p> <p>• Both the front and back bar will be open.</p> <p><strong>35 beers will be on tap plus a firkin of Special Double Cream Stout. Here’s the lineup:</strong></p> <table border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p>• Two Hearted Ale</p> <p>• Kalamazoo Stout&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>• Porter</p> <p>• Special Double Cream Stout&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>• Amber Ale</p> <p>• Java Stout</p> <p>• Pale Ale</p> <p>• Cherry Stout</p> <p>• Winter White Ale</p> <p>• Expedition Stout</p> <p>• Christmas Ale</p> <p>• Rye Stout</p> <p>• Best Brown Ale</p> <p>• Oatmeal Stout</p> <p>• Third Coast Beer</p> <p>• Smoked Stout</p> <p>• Third Coast Old Ale&nbsp;</p> <br></td> <td><br> <p>• Harry Magill’s Spiced Stout</p> <p>• Oarsman Ale</p> <p>• Sweet Potato Stout</p> <p>• Bell's Lager Beer</p> <p>• Trumpeters Stout</p> <p>• Hell Hath No Fury … Ale</p> <p>• Milk Stout</p> <p>• Sparkling Ale</p> <p>• Dagger Stout&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>• The Oracle DIPA</p> <p>• Black Note Bourbon Barrel-Aged Stout</p> <p>• Hopsoulution</p> <p>• Eccentric Ale (bottles will also be available for sale at the Bell's General Store)</p> <p>• Golden Rye</p> <p>• Exp Hop 2011-1 (an IPA brewed with experimental hops)</p> <p>• Rye-ghteous Ale</p> <p>• Harvest Ale &nbsp;</p> <p>• Raspberry Ale</p> <br></td> </tr> <tr> <td>&nbsp;</td> <td>&nbsp;</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-12-02T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Tasting events, a holiday party, pub Olympics and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/59-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Tasting%20events%2C%20a%20holiday%20party%2C%20pub%20Olympics%20and%20more <p>Here is a look at Bell’s beer events this week in Michigan, Virginia and Illinois.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Nov. 30</h3> <p><strong><a href="http://www.mainstpub.com">Main St. Pub</a> Olympics in Kalamazoo</strong><br> Try your skills at darts, Golden Tee, pinball and more while enjoying $3 pints of Amber, Two Hearted and Winter White starting at 8:30 p.m.</p> <h3>Dec. 1</h3> <p><strong>Pajama party at <a href="http://www.universityroadhouse.com/">University Roadhouse</a></strong><br> Take a break from finals and enjoy a free midnight breakfast buffet, Wedding Ale (tapped at 9 p.m.) and other Bell’s favorites in your PJs. Call 269-345-7990 for more information.</p> <p><strong>20 beers of cheers!</strong><br> This holiday party at <a href="http://ashleys.com/index.html">Ashley’s in Ann Arbor</a> will feature many hard to find Bell’s beers including Oracle, Sparkling Ale, Raspberry Ale and many others. For the full list and special tapping times, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1573">go here</a>.</p> <h3>Dec. 3</h3> <p><strong>Beer and cheese tasting</strong><br> This free event will feature Amber Ale, Christmas Ale, Special Double Cream Stout and Winter White at <a href="http://www.shopbacchus.com/">Bacchus Wine &amp; Spirits</a> in Kalamazoo from 2-4 p.m. Call 269-344-0168 for more information.</p> <h2>Virginia</h2> <h3>Dec. 2</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s tasting</strong><br> Sample some of Bell’s big, rare and standby favorites for free at <a href="http://www.onceuponavine.us/">Once Upon A Vine-North</a> in Richmond from 5-8 p.m. Call 804-864-9463 for more information.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Dec. 2</h3> <p><strong>Winter beer sampling</strong><br> Get a taste of Bell’s winter seasonals including some of our stouts at <a href="http://www.vraiamour.com/">Vrai Amour</a> in Chicago. Call 773-549-9740 for more information.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-11-28T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Before it was Bell's, it was a service station http://bellsbeer.com/news/58-Before%20it%20was%20Bell%27s%2C%20it%20was%20a%20service%20station <p>Before it was a brewery, a General Store or Bell's Eccentric Cafe, the building at 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., in downtown Kalamazoo, was a plumbing supply warehouse.</p> <p>In 1944, it was home to Cities Service Station.</p> <p>The streets were paved with brick and the railroad cut through what is now a parking lot and the Bell's Beer Garden. The photo below (shown with a current photograph) was taken by Ward Morgan (1907-1997) and is shared here courtesy of<a href="http://www.wmich.edu/library/archives/"> Western Michigan University's Archives and Regional History Collection</a>.</p> <p>You can <a href="http://luna.library.wmich.edu:8180/luna/servlet/detail/WMUwmu%7E29%7E29%7E54016%7E103002:Cities-gas-station-from-street-view?sort=Title%2CDate%2CSubject%2CCoverage_Spatial&amp;qvq=sort%3ATitle%2CDate%2CSubject%2CCoverage_Spatial%3Blc%3AWMUwmu%7E29%7E29&amp;mi=63&amp;trs=504&amp;fb_source=message">take a look at a larger version here.</a></p> <p><img src="/files/cache/d80da990b0aae2aaabd77b7a2224137d.jpg" alt="Then_Now.jpg" height="576" width="599"></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-11-17T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Black Note, Belgian style beers and multiple Bell's beer dinners http://bellsbeer.com/news/57-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Black%20Note%2C%20Belgian%20style%20beers%20and%20multiple%20Bell%27s%20beer%20dinners <p>Here is a look at Bell’s beer events this week in Kentucky, Minnesota, Michigan, Illinois, Ohio and North Carolina.</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>Nov. 15</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s Extravaganza at <a href="http://www.holygralelouisville.com">The Holy Grale</a></strong><br> This tap takeover in Louisville will give you a sample of what it’s like at the Eccentric Café in Kalamazoo! Drafts include Amber, Pale Ale, Porter, Lager of the Lakes, Oarsman, Best Brown, Winter White, Christmas Ale, Hell Hath No Fury, Sparkling Ale, Quinannan Falls Special Reserve Lager, Hopsoulution, Hopslam, Third Coast Beer, Java Stout, Cherry Stout, Expedition Stout, Double Cream Stout, Le Batteur, Le Pianiste and a cask of Two Hearted.</p> <h3>Nov. 16</h3> <p><strong>Black Note tapping</strong><br> This is the first keg of Black Note to be tapped in the state of Kentucky. Joining this Bourbon barrel-aged blend of Expedition Stout and Special Double Cream Stout on draft at <a href="http://www.thebeertrappe.com/">The Beer Trappe</a> will be Third Coast Beer, Sparkling Ale, Hopsoulution, Hell Hath No Fury … Ale and Winter White. Event starts at 7 p.m. Black Note will be tapped at 8 p.m. Call 859-309-0911 for more information.</p> <h2>Minnesota</h2> <h3>Nov. 15</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s beer dinner</strong><br> <a href="http://www.the-local.com/">The Local </a>will host a five course beer dinner featuring Amber Ale, Best Brown, Oarsman, Cherry Stout, Porter and Special Double Cream Stout. Cost is $40 per person and reservations are required.&nbsp; Call <a href="tel:16129041000">612-904-1000</a> for more information.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Nov. 16</h3> <p><strong>Brewfest and feast</strong><br> Space is limited for this Bell’s beer dinner at<a href="http://lakestreettavern.com/"> Lake Street Tavern</a> in South Lyon. Call 248-446-8898 for more information.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Nov. 16</h3> <p><strong>Michigan tap takeover</strong><br> 45 Michigan beers will be on tap at <a href="http://www.tribesalehouse.com/">Tribes Alehouse</a> in Mokena including Bell’s. Call 815-464-0248 for more information.</p> <h3>Nov. 19</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s beer sampling</strong><br> Winter White and some of Bell’s seasonal stouts will be part of this free event at <a href="http://www.dobbysliquors.com/">Dobby’s Worldwide Liquors &amp; Wines</a> in Chicago. Call 847-359-0400 for more information.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>Nov. 17</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s goes Belgian</strong><br> Enjoy three Belgian style beers from Bell’s at <a href="http://www.lackmanbar.com">The Lackman</a> in Cincinnati from 6-10 p.m. Call 513-381-0741 for more information.</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>Nov. 21</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s beer dinner</strong><br> <a href="http://www.darrylswoodfiredgrill.com/">Darryl’s Wood-Fired Grill</a> will host a five course beer dinner at 6 p.m. Cost is $39.95 per person. Call 336-294-1781 for more information. <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1557">Take a look at the menu here</a>.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Three events are scheduled in Kalamazoo plus a tasting in Virginia and a free sampling in Chicago. For more information, <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">go here</a>.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-11-14T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell’s Amber Ale has a new look, features work of Michigan artist http://bellsbeer.com/news/56-Bell%E2%80%99s%20Amber%20Ale%20has%20a%20new%20look%2C%20features%20work%20of%20Michigan%20artist <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/fc7fc5dffcac265bccdcffff77a4f783.jpg" alt="AmberAleStore.jpg" height="233" width="350">One of Bell’s Brewery’s first beers has a distinct new look.</p> <p class="Pa3">Originally Great Lakes Amber Ale, Bell’s Amber Ale was first packaged with three different labels after it debuted in 1985. They featured a series of shorebirds – a seagull, a wood duck and a heron. Each was dated with the season and as the brewery grew, both the wood duck and the seagull were phased out. In 1990, the heron became the official label.</p> <p>Although the recipe remains largely unchanged since the beginning, Larry Bell, founder and president of Bell’s Brewery, felt a new label was in order and selected a series of paint­ings by Michigan artist Kath­leen Kalinowski to represent Amber Ale going forward.</p> <p>Four of the five new labels feature Michigan landscapes. The fifth features “Isla Lake,” a pond in Yellowstone National Park on the Continental Divide, which kind of looks like a scene from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, according to Kalinowski. The six-pack carrier features the painting “Lake Michigan Dunes.”</p> <p>“I am thrilled to have my artwork discovered by Bell's and being showcased on their flagship beer,” Kalinowski said.</p> <p>This isn’t the first time Bell’s fans have been introduced to Kalinowski’s work. She was also commissioned to create the waterfall painting featured on the label of <a title="Brands" href="/brands/">Quinannan Falls Special Lager Beer</a>, part of the <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/news/31-Bell___s_Mead_now_available_in_bottles__Wild_One__Q_Falls_and_others_will_follow">Eccentric Café only 750ML bottle series</a>.</p> <p>Kalinowski has been working as a professional fine artist for the past twenty years using oils and pastels mostly plein air.</p> <p>“I paint outside, in all seasons, as much as I can to really observe and fully experience my subjects. One of my favorite subjects is painting water, whether it is Lake Michigan, a pond, or a small stream,” Kalinowski said.</p> <p>Kalinowski is a graduate of <a href="http://www.gvsu.edu/">Grand Valley State University</a> and attended <a href="http://www.kcad.edu/">Kendall College of Art and Design</a>. She has been featured in various publications and has exhibited throughout Michigan and many other states.</p> <p>You can see more of Kalinowski’s work at <a href="http://www.kalinowskifineart.com/">www.KalinowskiFineArt.com</a>.</p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/files/cache/1c3b1eb965d6cf19414dce75847b5c10.png" alt="AmberLabelsALL.png" height="135" width="600"></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-11-09T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Tap takeovers, Q-Falls and the Great American Cooking Expo http://bellsbeer.com/news/55-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Tap%20takeovers%2C%20Q-Falls%20and%20the%20Great%20American%20Cooking%20Expo <p>Here is a look at Bell’s beer events this week in Virginia, Illinois and Washington DC.</p> <h2>Virginia</h2> <h3>Nov. 9</h3> <p><strong>Ring the Bell’s</strong><br> Head over to the <a href="http://www.beerrun.com/">Beer Run</a> in Charlottesville for Q-Falls, The Oracle Double IPA, Hell Hath No Fury....Ale, Two Hearted Ale (which will run as the IPA feature all weekend long),&nbsp; Amber Ale, Best Brown Ale and the only keg of Deb's Red to make it to the commonwealth starting at 6 p.m. Call 434-984-2337 for more information.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Nov. 9</h3> <p><strong>Tap Takeover at The Beer Bistro</strong><br> Join us for a tap takeover in Chicago featuring year round favorites as well as some special beers <a href="http://www.thebeerbistro.com/">The Beer Bistro</a> has been holding onto just for this occasion. No cover. Call 312-433-0013 for more information.</p> <h3>Nov. 12-13</h3> <p><strong>Great American Cooking Expo</strong><br> Enjoy two days of sampling some of the best food, wine and of course, (Bell’s) beer at Arlington Park Racecourse. For more information, <a href="http://www.thecookingexpo.com/index.php">go here</a>.</p> <h2>Washington DC</h2> <h3>Nov. 10</h3> <p><strong>Tap takeover at <a href="http://ironhorsedc.com">Iron Horse Tap Room</a></strong><br> Sample several unique Bell's beers on draft as well as seasonal favorites:&nbsp; Amber Ale, Christmas Ale, Hopsoulution, Porter, Sparkling Ale, Special Double Cream Stout and Winter White Ale. Call 202-347-7665 for more information.</p> <h2>Looking ahead to next week</h2> <p>Black Note in Kentucky, a beer dinner in Michigan, a Michigan tap takeover in Illinois and more. To view all upcoming events,<a title="Regional Events" href="/events-2/"> go here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-11-08T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News And the winners of Bell’s 2nd Annual Homebrew Competition are … http://bellsbeer.com/news/54-And%20the%20winners%20of%20Bell%E2%80%99s%202nd%20Annual%20Homebrew%20Competition%20are%20%E2%80%A6 <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/d75aedd07bd8853d21e09df6586c51aa.jpg" alt="HomebrewWinner.jpg" height="303" width="430">KALAMAZOO – The wait is over.</p> <p>The winners of Bell’s 2<sup>nd</sup> Annual Homebrew Competition were announced during All Stouts Day at Bell’s Eccentric Café in Kalamazoo this past Sunday.</p> <p>Out of 129 entries, first place went to Geoff Groff for his IPA brewed with a touch of smoked malt and spiced with paradise seeds, with rose hips added. A Habanero pepper was also used for “A Bit of Heat.”</p> <p>Groff will get to brew his beer with brewer Andy Farrell at Bell’s downtown Kalamazoo brewery to go on tap at the Eccentric Café.</p> <p>Second place went to Jeff Frein for his saison brewed with orange blossom honey and coriander.</p> <p>Third place went to Pat Tkacz for his “marriage between a stout and an IPA with a chocolate and hop taste.”</p> <p>Honorable mentions also went to Andrew Hudson (carrot cake ale spiced with vanilla, cinnamon, all-spice, nutmeg, brown sugar &nbsp;and Bourbon soaked raisins), Clayton MacDonald (ginger strawberry hopped ale), Steven D. Cooper (raspberry zerbert - light blonde ale), Adam Majka and Chris Elston (dry-hopped “BIG” beer brewed with Michigan honey and homegrown hops), Nelson Tansey (dry-hopped ale brewed with some brown sugar) and Ron Brady (IPA brewed with three different hops).</p> <p>Congratulations to all the winners and a special thank you to all who competed.</p> <p><strong>CAPTION:</strong> Bell's marketing director Laura Bell announces the winner of the 2nd Annual Bell's Homebrew Competition. Geoff Groff will get to brew his beer at Bell's downtown Kalamazoo brewery to go on tap at the Eccentric Cafe.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-11-07T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Full list: Bell's 3rd annual All Stouts Day will feature 14 stouts and special menu items http://bellsbeer.com/news/53-Full%20list%3A%20Bell%27s%203rd%20annual%20All%20Stouts%20Day%20will%20feature%2014%20stouts%20and%20special%20menu%20items%20 <p><img style="margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black; float: left;" src="/files/cache/d181c90796f3798f0af7381bef79d330.jpg" alt="StoutGlass.jpg" width="136" height="200">KALAMAZOO - On Sunday (Nov. 6), the taps at <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Bell’s Eccentric Cafe</a> will be turned over to the stouts.</p> <p>Bell’s third annual All Stouts Day will begin at noon with 14 different stouts on tap including Black Note&nbsp;Bourbon Barrel Aged Stout, The Dagger Extra Stout Ale and Sweet Potato Stout (the full list is below).</p> <p>Those who stop by on Sunday can also order from a special menu that will feature many items made with help from a brand new smoker. Smoked meats and tofu, stout and cheddar soup, jambalaya and many others will be on the menu (the full list is also below).</p> <p>Later in the afternoon, the winner of our 2<sup>nd</sup> Annual Homebrew Competition will be announced. The homebrewer who takes first place will get to brew their recipe on our brew system in downtown Kalamazoo to go on tap at the Café.</p> <p>Stop by on Saturday for <a href="https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=294305720587314">Learn to Homebrew Day</a> and you’ve got yourself a weekend (not to mention<a title="Events Calendar" href="/eccentric-cafe/events-calendar/"> who’s performing in the back room).</a></p> <p>Here is the full list of beers and special menu items that will be available Sunday.</p> <h3>The stouts</h3> <p>• The Dagger Extra Stout Ale</p> <p>• Kalamazoo Stout</p> <p>• Special Double Cream Stout</p> <p>• Java Stout</p> <p>• Cherry Stout</p> <p>• Expedition Stout</p> <p>• Oatmeal&nbsp;Stout</p> <p>• Rye Stout&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>• Black Note&nbsp;Bourbon Barrel Aged Stout</p> <p>• Milk Stout&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>• Smoked Stout &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>• Harry Magill’s Spiced Stout&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>• Sweet Potato Stout</p> <p>• Trumpeter’s Stout</p> <h3>The food</h3> <p>• Shrimp cocktail</p> <p>• Smoked whitefish spread</p> <p>• Beef stew</p> <p>• Chicken and sausage jambalaya</p> <p>• Stout and cheddar soup</p> <p>• Pulled pork sandwich with Cherry Stout reduction BBQ sauce and cole slaw</p> <p>• Smoked chicken sandwich with bacon and leek relish</p> <p>• Beef brisket with grilled sweet onions</p> <p>• Smoked tofu with Cherry Stout reduction BBQ sauce and cole slaw</p> <p>• Balsamic tempeh wrap with cucumber sauce</p> <p>• Spicy catfish sandwich</p> <p>• ½ smoked chicken with corn bread and baked beans</p> <p>• ½ slab baby-back ribs with corn bread and baked beans</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-11-03T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Raising a glass to all involved: Bell’s beer will be ready before and after Iceman Cometh Challenge in Traverse City http://bellsbeer.com/news/52-Raising%20a%20glass%20to%20all%20involved%3A%20Bell%E2%80%99s%20beer%20will%20be%20ready%20before%20and%20after%20Iceman%20Cometh%20Challenge%20in%20Traverse%20City <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" title="The finish line for this year's Iceman Cometh Challenge " src="/files/cache/f74aa6824ca9c8bcab2a19368ecacfb8.jpg" alt="Icemanfinish.jpg" height="314" width="419">Bell’s Brewery is proud to be the title sponsor of this year’s 22<sup>nd</sup> annual Iceman Cometh Challenge on Saturday (Nov. 5) right here in Michigan. To help celebrate everyone’s accomplishments, multiple Bell’s beers will be on tap.</p> <p>Before hitting the trail, sample Best Brown, Amber, Oarsman and Two Hearted Friday at the event’s kick-off, the Ice Cycle Expo at <a href="http://www.grandtraverseresort.com/">Grand Traverse Resort and Spa</a>.</p> <p>And as soon as you cross the finish line on Saturday, we’ll be ready to pour Amber Ale, Kalamazoo Stout, Two Hearted Ale, Best Brown Ale, Winter White, Oarsman Ale, Q-Falls and Sparkling Ale.</p> <p>Later that night, those same beers along with Hell Hath No Fury ... Ale and Christmas Ale will be on tap at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theloadingdocktc">The Loading Dock</a> in Traverse City for the Bell’s Sunset on the Season (after) Party starting at 8:30 p.m. Detroit rockers<a href="http://www.orbitsuns.com"> The Orbitsuns</a> will perform and help celebrate another great year.</p> <p>Athletes from 38 different states, ranging in ages from two to 72-years-old, will compete in one of the largest single day races in the country. An estimated 7,500 people will line the course to cheer the competitors on.</p> <p>The Bell's Beer Iceman course will take participants from Kalkaska to Timber Ridge Resort, near Traverse City through the hardwood forests, meadows, and cross country ski trails of the Pere Marquette State Forest. Among them will be five of Bell’s own.</p> <p>Gary Nicholas and Evan Meffert will compete in the 29-mile Iceman while Laura Bell, John Mallett and Nathan Schroeder will take part in the half-frozen eight-mile Slush Cup.</p> <p>Good luck and a safe ride to all of this year’s participants!</p> <p>For more on Iceman, <a href="http://www.iceman.com">go here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-11-01T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: All Stouts Day, Iceman Cometh Challenge, tastings and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/51-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20All%20Stouts%20Day%2C%20Iceman%20Cometh%20Challenge%2C%20tastings%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/5680320a7907fa985dc6aec5ef572335.jpg" alt="129 entries were received for the 2nd Annual Bell's Homebrew Competition. The winner will be announced during All Stouts Day Nov, 6." height="444" width="322">A look at Bell’s beer events in Michigan, Illinois, South Carolina and Kentucky this week.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Nov. 4</h3> <p><strong>Beer Tasting at <a href="http://www.drakespartycenter.com/">Drake Party Store</a></strong><br> Join us in Kalamazoo for a<a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1542"> Bell’s beer tasting</a> and six-pack discounts from 5:30-8:30 p.m.</p> <h3>Nov. 5</h3> <p><strong>Beer and cheese pairing</strong><br> Taste selected cheeses paired with Bell’s beer at <a href="http://www.hardings.com/">Harding’s </a>on Centre Street in Portage from noon to 2 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Sunset on the Season Party – Iceman Cometh Challenge</strong><br> Enjoy multiple Bell’s beers on draft after the race including Two Hearted, Winter White, Christmas Ale, Hell Hath No Fury … Ale, Q-Falls, Sparkling Ale and more at the Loading Dock in Traverse City. Bell's Brewery is the proud sponsor of the 2011 Iceman Cometh Challenge. For more information,<a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1528"> go here</a>.</p> <p><strong>Learn to Homebrew Day</strong><br>Join the Bell's crew and KLOB and learn how to make your own beer. Demonstrations begin at 10 a.m. For more information, <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/eccentric-cafe/events-calendar/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1523">go here</a>.</p> <h3>Nov. 6</h3> <p><strong>All Stouts Day</strong><br> Sample 14 different stouts on tap at <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Bell’s Eccentric Café</a> starting at noon. Various smoked foods will be featured and the winner of the 2<sup>nd</sup> Annual Bell’s Homebrew Competition will also be announced. In the photo above, are the 129 entries received this year.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Nov. 3</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s Beer Dinner</strong><br> <a href="http://www.miafrancesca.com/">Francesca’s Amici </a>in Elmhurst will host a five-course dinner featuring our beer at 7 p.m. <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1506">Take a look at the menu here.</a> Call 630-279-7970 for more information.</p> <h3>Nov. 5</h3> <p><strong>Beer Hoptacular, Chicago</strong><br> For one flat fee, sample more than a 100 different beers and vote for your favorite. This year, there are two sessions. For more information, <a href="http://beerhoptacular.com/index.php">go here</a>.</p> <h2>South Carolina</h2> <h3>Nov. 5</h3> <p><strong>Bluffton International &amp; Craft Beer Fest</strong><br> At 2 p.m. we’ll be pouring Best Brown, Amber, Kalamazoo Stout and Oarsman Ale at The Promenade. For more details on the festival, <a href="http://blufftonbeerfest.com/">go here</a>.</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>Nov. 1</h3> <p><strong>Hopsoulution tapping</strong><br>A special kep of our DIPA will be tapped at 5 p.m. along with Best Brown and Two Hearted Ale at <a href="http://theenglishpub.com/">Cock and Bull English Pub in Covnigton</a>.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p><a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1474">A Bell’s beer tasting as part of Richmond Beer Week in Virginia</a>, <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1508">a tap takeover at The Beer Bistro in Chicago</a> and more.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-10-31T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News View Bell's Brewery from a kite http://bellsbeer.com/news/50-View%20Bell%27s%20Brewery%20from%20a%20kite <p>First, he identifies a subject. Then he does a little recon for safety.</p> <p>And with just the right amount of wind, Kalamazoo's Jim Ratliff sends his cameras into the sky a little at a time. He photographs a perspective that is not easy, especially when you also have to take natural lighting, wind direction, wind speed and the challenge of flying a kite into consideration.</p> <p>Yes, the aerial views of Bell's production facility in Comstock, Mich. below, were taken from a kite.</p> <p>Ratliff estimates his highest shot was at least 375 feet above ground. He uses his camera's timer to shoot at 10 second intervals with the help of a <a href="http://www.kaper.us/basics/dc_R.html">Sun Oak 9.5-foot Delta Conyne</a>.</p> <p>Thank you Jim, for sharing. You can see <a href="http://tinyurl.com/JimKitePhotos">more Kite Aerial Photography by Jim Ratliff here.</a></p> <p><strong><a href="http://tinyurl.com/JimKitePhotos"><img src="/files/cache/f48e54ae4128a9abfe93feaff42de394.JPG" alt="IMGP0214.JPG" height="450" width="600"></a></strong></p> <p><img src="/files/cache/d452142b21f7ec62b7947415e99f01d1.JPG" alt="View from a kite - Oct. 16 (Kite Aerial Photo by Jim Ratliff)." height="399" width="600"></p> <p><img src="/files/cache/1a9f00be514555c7e8ca16df69aa4643.JPG" alt="View from a kite - Oct. 16 (Kite Aerial Photo by Jim Ratliff)." height="450" width="600"></p> <p><img src="/files/cache/6bf7931807c4f29adc282f562a11c280.JPG" alt="View from a kite - Oct. 16 (Kite Aerial Photo by Jim Ratliff)." height="450" width="600"></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-10-28T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: An early peek at Christmas Ale, a Halloween Beer Dinner, HopFest and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/48-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20An%20early%20peek%20at%20Christmas%20Ale%2C%20a%20Halloween%20Beer%20Dinner%2C%20HopFest%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/9ff96fc90a2c6569fee8f4192a9b3acf.jpg" alt="PatrickHenryFall2011.jpg" height="398" width="340">Here is a look at events featuring Bell’s beer this week in Michigan, Virginia, Illinois, Washington DC and Alabama. Friday is also the deadline to enter <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/news/34-2nd_Annual_Bell_s_Homebrew_Expo_and_Competition_announced__winner_will_get_to_brew_their_beer_on_our_system_to_go_on_tap_at_Eccentric_Cafe">Bell’s 2<sup>nd</sup> Annual Homebrew Competition</a>.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Oct. 26</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s Beer Dinner in Plainwell</strong><br> This five course dinner will also feature an early release of Bell’s seasonal Christmas Ale at <a href="http://www.fourrosescafe.com/">Four Roses Cafe</a>. Space is limited and reservations are required. Below is the menu:</p> <ul> <li>Smoked salmon mousse paired with Bell’s Oarsman Ale.</li> <li>Alsacienne sauerkraut soup paired with Third Coast Beer.</li> <li>Braised beef with sage polenta paired with Bell’s Hell Hath No Fury … Ale.</li> <li>Maple mustard baby back ribs paired with Bell’s Christmas Ale.</li> <li>Baked apple with caramel sauce paired with Bell’s Third Coast Old Ale.</li> </ul> <p>Call 269-685-1077 for more information.</p> <h2>Virginia</h2> <h3>Oct. 27</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s Halloween Beer Dinner </strong><br> This one of a kind event will feature darker beers at <a href="http://www.thephpub.com/">Patrick Henry Pub </a>in Richmond. If you wear a costume, you can save $5 on admission. Call 804-644-4242 for more information. Be sure to check out the menu <a title="PatrickHenryFall2011.jpg" href="/index.php/download_file/view/584/63/">(download it here)</a>.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Oct. 27</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s HopFest</strong><br> <a href="http://clarkstreetalehouse.com/">Clark St. Ale House</a> in Chicago has been saving some of our hoppier beers just for this occasion. Sample Oracle, vintage Hopslam, Hopsoulution and more.&nbsp; Because of limited supplies, make sure to get there early. Call 312-642-9253 for more information.</p> <h2>Washington DC</h2> <h3>Oct. 24</h3> <p><strong>Hopsoulution tapping</strong><br> Be one of the first to sample Bell’s Hopsoulution at <a href="http://birchandbarley.com/">Birch &amp; Barley/ChurchKey</a>. Best Brown Ale, Cherry Stout, Expedition Stout, Java Stout, Special Double Cream Stout and Two Hearted Ale will also be featured. Call 202-567-2576 for more information.</p> <h3>Alabama</h3> <h3>Oct. 27</h3> <p><strong>Taste of Mobile</strong><br> This annual event will not only feature more than 40 booths and the opportunity to sample some of the finest cuisine the area has to offer, but also the debut of Bell’s Best Brown Ale in the coastal region. Amber Ale will also be available to sample as well. For more information, <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1529">go here</a>.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p><strong>Coming up next week: </strong>The release of Christmas Ale, <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?request_uri=&amp;query=1&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=177&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=178&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=179&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=182&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=183&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=184&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=185&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=186&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=187&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=188&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=189&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=190&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=191&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=192&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=193&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=194&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=195&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=196&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=197&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=177&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=178&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=179&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=182&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=183&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=184&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=185&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=186&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=187&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=188&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=189&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=190&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=191&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=192&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=193&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=194&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=195&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=196&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=197&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=177&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=178&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=179&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=182&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=183&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=184&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=185&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=186&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=187&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=188&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=189&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=190&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=191&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=192&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=193&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=194&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=195&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=196&amp;pkeyEventCategoryID=197&amp;query=1&amp;dtEventStartDate=2011-11-03&amp;dtEventEndDate=2011-11-03&amp;dtMonth=11&amp;dtYear=2011">A beer dinner at Francesca's Amici in Elmhurst, IL; All Stouts Day at the Eccentric Café in Kalamazoo, Mich.; Beer Hoptacular, Iceman Cometh Challenge and more.</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-10-24T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell’s beer event roundup: Join us for Detroit Beer Week, Cleveland Beer Week, the Detroit Fall Beer Festival, Stout Night and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/47-Bell%E2%80%99s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Join%20us%20for%20Detroit%20Beer%20Week%2C%20Cleveland%20Beer%20Week%2C%20the%20Detroit%20Fall%20Beer%20Festival%2C%20Stout%20Night%20and%20more <p><img style="float: left; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/14b3b539669d0df683bcc4a72d1e15ba.jpg" alt="DetroitFestPoster.jpg" height="337" width="271">Here is a look at events featuring Bell’s beer this week in Michigan, Ohio, North Dakota and Virginia.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Oct. 20-22</h3> <p><strong>Detroit Beer Week, Detroit Fall Beer Festival</strong><br> <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1478">A multi-course beer dinner</a> at the <a href="http://www.rattlesnakeclub.com">Rattlesnake Club</a> will kick-off a series of Bell’s events leading up to the 3<sup>rd</sup> Annual Detroit Fall Beer Festival at Eastern Market <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1504">(go here to see what we’ll be pouring)</a>. Other events include <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1514">a special tapping of Raspberry Ale</a> among others and the <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1515">Four O’s of Bell’s</a> at <a href="http://www.grandtrunkpub.com/">Foran’s Grand Trunk Pub</a>. For more on Detroit Beer Week, <a href="http://www.detbeerweek.com/">go here</a>.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>Oct. 18-22</h3> <p><strong>Cleveland Beer Week</strong><br> There will be no shortage of Bell’s beer on hand for the third annual Cleveland Beer Week. See how things are done at the Eccentric Café when we take over the taps at the <a href="http://buckeyebeerengine.com/">Buckeye Beer Engine</a> then follow that with Bell’s Pint Night at Parnell’s Pub, <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1495">a beer dinner with Larry Bell</a>, three stops on the Red Carpet Ride, <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1499">a Premiere Beer and Cheese Pairing</a>, a <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1500">Bell’s tap takeover</a>, <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1501">a special tapping of Quinannan Falls</a>, a <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1502">Bell’s Beer Tour</a> and the <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1503">Brewzilla After Party</a>. For more on Cleveland Beer Week, <a href="http://www.clevelandbeerweek.org">go here</a>.</p> <h2>North Dakota</h2> <h3>Oct. 19</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s Stout Night</strong><br> Enjoy special tappings of Kalamazoo Stout, Java Stout, Cherry Stout, Double Cream Stout and Expedition Stout with Jason Gillum starting at 6 p.m. at <a href="http://www.jlbeers.com/518/">JL Beers-Downtown</a> in Fargo. For more information, <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1525">go here.</a></p> <h3>Oct. 21</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s Cask Ale Night</strong><br> Enjoy a special cask of Best Brown Ale and see how beer was meant to be enjoyed beginning at 4 p.m. at the <a href="http://www.hoteldonaldson.com">Ho-Do Lounge</a> in Fargo. For more details, <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1526">go here.</a></p> <h3>Oct. 22-23</h3> <p><strong>NoVA BrewFest</strong><br> This event will feature more than 40 of the world’s best breweries, delicious food and live entertainment over two days. For more information, <a href="http://www.novabrewfest.com/">go here</a>.</p> <h2>Virginia</h2> <h3>Oct. 20</h3> <p><strong>Bell’s Beer Dinner</strong><br> Five courses, five Bell’s beers – enjoy one of the most highly anticipated beer dinners of the year at <a href="http://magnoliasmill.com/">Magnolia’s at the Mill</a> in Purcellville. For more details, <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1390">go here.</a></p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Next week you can look forward to a Bell's beer dinner in Plainwell, Michigan, Bell's HopFest and more.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-10-17T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News 150,000 cups from Bell’s Eccentric Café are headed to the compost pile instead of a landfill http://bellsbeer.com/news/46-150%2C000%20cups%20from%20Bell%E2%80%99s%20Eccentric%20Caf%C3%A9%20are%20headed%20to%20the%20compost%20pile%20instead%20of%20a%20landfill <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/a112143ebedc1f2e28d68674d04c131e.jpg" alt="Compost.jpg" height="213" width="314">KALAMAZOO –&nbsp;About 150,000 plastic cups will not make their way to a landfill because of Bell’s Brewery’s commitment to the environment.</p> <p>The 100-percent compostable Greenware Cups used at <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Bell’s Eccentric Café</a> are made of Polylactic Acid, a starch based polymer derived from corn. They will be fed to a Tub Grinder, a machine that will literally beat the cups into pieces roughly the size of a quarter.</p> <p>The plastic shreds will then be mixed in with other yard waste and compost by The Leaf Man, a Kalamazoo-based company that is under a trial contract to take over composting services for the city of Kalamazoo.</p> <p>A lot of people use them, but they don’t compost them, said Evan Meffert, Bell’s Sustainability Coordinator.</p> <p>“It’s all about being green and environmentally friendly. In the past we have used petroleum cups and despite the additional cost, they (Greenware Cups) are definitely worth it,” said Jason Reicherts, Retail and Pub Manager for Bell’s Eccentric Café.</p> <p>The cups are made locally by Kalamazoo based <a href="http://www.f-k.com/">Fabri-Kal</a> from plant sources that are domestically-grown and annually renewable.</p> <p>“It’s best to get them out of the waste stream entirely. That takes partnerships, which we have with Leaf Man and Fabri-Kal,” Meffert said.</p> <p>&nbsp;“We cut solid waste by about 70-percent just by using these cups,” he said.</p> <p>Bourbon barrels once used for beer conditioning are outfitted with recycled PVC pipes to collect the cups and make sure they are kept separate from other garbage.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-10-11T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: Dinner with Larry Bell, Stout Night, a tap takeover and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/45-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Dinner%20with%20Larry%20Bell%2C%20Stout%20Night%2C%20a%20tap%20takeover%20and%20more <p>Here is a look at events featuring Bell's beer in Illinois, North Carolina, Georgia, Virginia and Ohio.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3>Oct. 10</h3> <p><strong>Beer dinner with Larry Bell</strong><br>Larry Bell will host this six-course beer dinner at <a href="http://hopleaf.com/">Hopleaf </a>in Chicago at 7 p.m. For more details, <a href="http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Dinner-with-Bell-s-founder--Larry-Bell---Monday--Oct--10.html?soid=1101371677514&amp;aid=HBCpdvXRK3w">go here</a>.</p> <h2>North Carolina</h2> <h3>Oct. 10</h3> <p><strong>Beer dinner at <a href="http://www.opentable.com/rukas-table">Ruka's Table</a></strong><br>This 2nd Annual Bell's beer dinner will include a special draft of Deb's (dry-hopped) Red Ale. For more information, <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1389">go here.</a></p> <h2>Georgia</h2> <h3>Oct. 10</h3> <p><strong>Atlanta Craft Beer Week</strong><br><a href="http://www.themidwaypub.com">The Midway Pub</a> in Atlanta will kick-off Atlanta Craft Beer Week with Batch 10,000, Hell Hath No Fury ... Ale and Quinannan Falls Special Lager at 5 p.m.</p> <h2>Ohio</h2> <h3>Oct. 12</h3> <p><strong>Tap takeover</strong><br>Multiple Bell's beers will be on tap at Fourth Street Patio in Columbus. For a list and details, <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1492">go here.</a></p> <h2>Virginia</h2> <h3>Oct. 13</h3> <p><strong>Bell's Stout Night</strong><br>Come to the dark side with vintage and draft-only Bell's beer and food at <a href="http://www.currentrestaurantva.com/ordereze/1000/Page.aspx">Current </a>in Richmond.</p> <h2>Georgia</h2> <h3>Oct. 13</h3> <p><strong>Beer and cheese</strong><br>Enjoy beer from five breweries, including Bell's, paired with artisinal cheeses starting at 6 p.m. at <a href="http://www.theporterbeerbar.com">The Porter Beer Bar</a> in Atlanta.</p> <h2>Looking ahead</h2> <p>Next week, Bell's will be at the <a href="http://www.mbgmash.org/">Detroit Fall Beer Festival</a>, <a href="http://www.rattlesnakeclub.com/">Rattlesnake Club</a>, <a href="http://novabrewfest.com/fall/">Northern Virginia Brewfest</a> <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/">and more</a>.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-10-10T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News October Art Hop will feature Bell’s beer label artwork in downtown Kalamazoo http://bellsbeer.com/news/44-October%20Art%20Hop%20will%20feature%20Bell%E2%80%99s%20beer%20label%20artwork%20in%20downtown%20Kalamazoo <p><img style="float: left; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/e0cd608600f2e4234e83d4d9d16f36cf.jpg" alt="Oarsman.jpg" height="196" width="183">KALAMAZOO – <a href="http://blacklabfive.com/">Black Lab Five</a>, 123 W. Kalamazoo Ave. in downtown Kalamazoo, will host a stop at this month’s Art Hop featuring artwork from Bell's labels, including Oarsman Ale (left) and The Wild One, from 5-9 p.m. Friday.</p> <p>It will feature more than 30 pieces by various artists.</p> <p>Refreshments will be served and some of the artists will also be present.</p> <p>Afterward, swing by the pub at the <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Eccentric Café</a> for a beer.</p> <p>The October Art Hop, one of four expanded Art Hops this year, will feature 56 locations. The event is presented by the <a href="http://www.kazooart.org/">Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo</a> and<a href="http://www.downtownkalamazoo.org/"> Downtown Kalamazoo Inc.</a></p> <p>Black Lab Five is stop #23 on the <a href="http://www.kazooart.org/calendar/pdf/ArtHop_Oct11_web.pdf">Art Hop map</a>.</p> <p>For more information on the Art Hop, <a href="http://www.kalamazooarts.com">go here</a>.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-10-06T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell’s beer event roundup: Cheese tasting, Oracle tapping, Art Hop, Stout Night and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/43-Bell%E2%80%99s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%20Cheese%20tasting%2C%20Oracle%20tapping%2C%20Art%20Hop%2C%20Stout%20Night%20and%20more <p>Here is a look at events featuring Bell's beer in <strong>Michigan, Georgia, Indiana, South Carolina, Virginia and Alabama</strong> this week.</p> <h1>Michigan</h1> <h2>Oct. 7</h2> <p><strong>An after hours Zoo event and Art Hop</strong><br>Bell's will be at <a href="http://www.binderparkzoo.org/beer/">BontebOktoberfest in Battle Creek</a> and the October Art Hop in downtown Kalamazoo will feature original label artwork (more details to come).</p> <h1>Georgia</h1> <h2>Oct. 3</h2> <p><strong>Beer and cheese with Sweet Grass Dairy</strong><br>Enjoy five cheeses with beer from Bell’s and Terrapin Beer Co. Event starts at 6 p.m. Cost is $30. For more information, <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1484">go here</a>.</p> <h1>Indiana</h1> <h2>Oct. 4</h2> <p><strong>Oracle tapping</strong><a href="http://www.flatwaterbroadripple.com/"><br>Flatwater Restauran</a>t in Indianapolis will feature our take on the west coast style double India Pale Ale along with Two-Hearted, Amber Ale and one other seasonal.</p> <h1>South Carolina</h1> <h2>Oct. 6</h2> <p><strong>Bell’s at The Greenville Beer Exchange</strong><br> Check out this free tasting from 5-7 p.m. Call 864-232-3533 or <a href="http://www.greenvillebeerexchange.com/" target="_blank">visit them online</a> for more information.</p> <h1>Virginia</h1> <p><strong>Note: Bell’s Stout Night</strong> has been rescheduled for Oct. 13.</p> <h2>Oct. 7</h2> <p><strong>Bell’s beer dinner</strong><br><a href="http://www.jeffersonhotel.com/dining_tjs.aspx">TJ’s at the Jefferson Hotel</a> in Richmond will host a four-course beer dinner at 7 p.m. Cost is $45. <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1356">Take a look at the menu here</a>.</p> <h1>Alabama</h1> <h2>Oct. 9</h2> <p><strong>Break n’ Bread</strong><br>Enjoy signature tastings from nearly 40 Birmingham Originals restaurants, plus wine and beer at Railroad Park from 1-5 p.m. Four will feature Bell’s beers. For more information, <a href="http://www.birminghamoriginals.org/breakn-bread.php">go here</a>.</p> <h1>Looking ahead</h1> <p>Larry Bell will host a beer dinner at <a href="http://hopleaf.com/">Hopleaf </a>in Chicago. For details, visit our <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Regional Events page.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-10-03T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's Brewery headed to 2011 Great American Beer Festival in Denver; see what we’re pouring http://bellsbeer.com/news/42-Bell%27s%20Brewery%20headed%20to%202011%20Great%20American%20Beer%20Festival%20in%20Denver%3B%20see%20what%20we%E2%80%99re%20pouring <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/97aafd62a107f28b2569479f01e66e6f.jpg" alt="GABF2010.jpg" height="293" width="446">DENVER&nbsp; - Bell’s Brewery will be among 466 U.S. breweries pouring more than 36,000 gallons of beer at the 30<sup>th</sup> annual <a href="http://www.greatamericanbeerfestival.com">Great American Beer Festival</a> in Denver this weekend.</p> <p>We thought you might like to know what we will be pouring.</p> <p>PS – We’ll be near the GABF Store in the Great Lakes region <a href="http://www.greatamericanbeerfestival.com/at-the-festival/festival-map/">(C3 on your map)</a> – stop by and say hello.</p> <p><strong>Oarsman Ale: </strong>Designed as a flavorful session beer, <em>Oarsman Ale</em> uses a classic German brewing technique to impart a light, refreshing tartness. <em>Oarsman Ale</em> grew out of a desire to explore the tradition of session beers, trading intensity for finesse while still creating a worthwhile experience for the taster. The grain bill includes a healthy portion of wheat, while citrusy hops lend bright notes to the aroma. Fermented with Bell’s house ale yeast, <em>Oarsman</em> comes in at 4.0% alcohol by volume. Rather than being the dominant flavor note, the tartness in <em>Oarsman</em> takes on more of a palate-cleansing role, making it perfect for pairing with food.</p> <p><strong>Le Pianiste: </strong>The second in a three-part series of jazz-inspired interpretations on the French Biere de Garde style, <em>Le Pianiste</em> starts as a malt forward beer, combining biscuity, breadcrust notes with a light caramel flavor. Noticeably dry, the finish is crisp with a lively, refreshing acidity</p> <p><strong><img style="float: left; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/5ad8ca7dfc29bfaf0e6437df3b0d90ae.jpg" alt="QFallsWEB.jpg" height="106" width="109">Quinannan Falls:</strong> Born in a dream, <em>Quinannan Falls Special Lager Beer</em> refers to a mythical place in the boreal north. While the waterfall may exist solely in Larry Bell’s imagination, the beer he remembered drinking there is now quite real. <em>Quinannan Falls</em> possesses the crisp, dry bitterness you’d expect from a German pilsner, but the use of highly aromatic hops from the Pacific Northwest in both the kettle &amp; dry-hop invokes the fragrant pine forests that inspired this beer.</p> <p><strong>Kalamazoo Stout: </strong><em>Kalamazoo Stout</em> represents stouts in the Bell’s year-round roster, offering a blend of dark chocolate and coffee flavors with just a hint of brewer’s licorice. One of our oldest recipes, it balances a significant hop presence against the roast malt body.</p> <p><em><strong>Photo credit:</strong> Jason E. Kaplan (2010 GABF)</em></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-09-28T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer event roundup: 3 chances to get to know Q-Falls, Skitoberfest, a tap takeover and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/41-Bell%27s%20beer%20event%20roundup%3A%203%20chances%20to%20get%20to%20know%20Q-Falls%2C%20Skitoberfest%2C%20a%20tap%20takeover%20and%20more <p><img style="margin: 10px; float: right;" src="/files/cache/dd017fcc45e33cd305f072d2ca076b68.jpg" alt="QFallsWEB.jpg" height="211" width="215">There are lots of great and unique events featuring Bell’s beer this week. Below is a look at what is coming up in <strong>Pennsylvania, </strong><strong>Michigan, Iowa and Georgia</strong>. Bell’s Brewery will also be at <a href="http://www.greatamericanbeerfestival.com/" target="_blank">The Great American Beer Festival</a>, Sept. 29-Oct. 1, in Denver. Stop by and have a beer with us.</p> <h2>Pennsylvania</h2> <p>Three events this week will introduce our fans to Bell’s <em>Quinannan Falls Special Lager Beer (</em>6.5% ABV), a dry-hopped lager usually only available on tap at our pub in downtown Kalamazoo!</p> <p>Q-Falls was most recently part of Bell’s <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/news/31-Bell___s_Mead_now_available_in_bottles__Wild_One__Q_Falls_and_others_will_follow">750 ML bottle series</a> that are also only available at Bell’s Eccentric Café. These hand-numbered bottles were limited to just 318.</p> <h3>Sept. 27</h3> <p>Bell’s will be taking over <strong>Capone’s in Norristown</strong> starting at 6:30 p.m. In addition to Q-Falls, Two Hearted Ale, Bell’s Porter, Amber Ale, Wedding Ale, The Oracle, Expedition Stout and Consecrator Doppelbock will also be available on draft.</p> <p>Call 610-279-4748 or <a href="http://caponesdraftlist.blogspot.com/">visit them online</a> for more information.</p> <h3>Sept. 28</h3> <p>Bell’s will take over<strong> Jeremy’s Khyber Pass Pub in Philadelphia</strong> with Two Hearted, Porter, Consecrator, Q-Falls, Amber Ale, Oarsman Ale and Expedition Stout on draft starting at 8 p.m.</p> <p>Call 215-238-5888 for more information.</p> <h3>Sept. 29</h3> <p>This first look at Q-Falls will be held at<strong> Blue Dog Tavern in Chalfont</strong> alongside Two Hearted, Porter, Consecrator, Amber, Pale Ale, Oarsman Ale and Expedition Stout.</p> <p>Call 215-997-9988 or <a href="http://www.bluedog.cc/" target="_blank">go online</a> for more information.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3>Sept. 29</h3> <p><strong>Tailgating party at Mickey’s Pub in Union Pier (updated)</strong><br>Wear your team colors and enjoy food from the grill while testing your skills in our bags tournament starting at 6:30 p.m. $5 will get you in the door and proceeds will benefit a local animal rescue. Enjoy pints of Oberon, The Oracle and Two Hearted Ale on draft plus bottles of Amber and Porter. Call <span id="bizPhone" class="tel">269-231-5205</span> for more information.</p> <h3>Oct. 1</h3> <p><strong>3<sup>rd</sup> Annual Skitoberfest at Boyne Mountain Resort</strong><br>Celebrate the best of fall in an Oktoberfest style setting and get ready for the upcoming winter season with a Snowsports Summit. Enjoy great food, Michigan beer, wine and spirits plus music and family entertainment. <a href="http://bit.ly/pRqK7y" target="_blank">Go here</a> for more details.</p> <p><strong>Great Lakes Brew Festival, Midland</strong><br>Bell’s Brewery will be represented at this second annual event from 5-10 p.m. at Dow Diamond, 825 East Main St. For more information, <a href="http://bit.ly/nTgHqa" target="_blank">go here</a>.</p> <h2>Iowa</h2> <h3>Sept. 30</h3> <p><strong>Draft takeover at Red’s Ale House</strong><br>This event will feature multiple stouts, Third Coast Old Ale and the last of this year's Oberon in the state of Iowa. Call 319-626-2100 or<a href="http://redsalehousenl.com/" target="_blank"> visit them online</a> for more information.</p> <h2>Georgia</h2> <h3>Sept. 30</h3> <p><strong>Elliott Street Art &amp; Flux at Elliott Street Pub</strong><br>Enjoy a pint of Bell’s beer while you tour the Castleberry Hill area in downtown Atlanta and take in the local art scene.</p> <p>Call 404-523-2174 for more information or <a href="http://www.elliottstreet.com" target="_blank">visit them online</a> for more details.</p> <h2>Looking ahead to next week</h2> <p>Stop by for Bell’s Stout Night at Current and a beer dinner at TJ’s inside The Jefferson Hotel in <strong>Richmond, Virginia</strong>.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-09-26T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's expansion news: Take a look at how we are growing http://bellsbeer.com/news/40-Bell%27s%20expansion%20news%3A%20Take%20a%20look%20at%20how%20we%20are%20growing <p> <object style="float: right;" data="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="326" height="248"> <param name="data" value="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1"> <param name="base" value="http://admin.brightcove.com"> <param name="flashvars" value="videoId=1162138249001&amp;playerID=651482439001&amp;playerKey=AQ~~,AAAAPmbRJXk~,z77SjzCGAfJUKDvuvJ8Pgc0wvvtG64Ew&amp;domain=embed&amp;dynamicStreaming=true"> <param name="name" value="flashObj"> <param name="src" value="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1"> </object> COMSTOCK – The banner on the side says it all - “We’re growing so more beer will be flowing.”</p> <p>That growth has become even more evident over the last few weeks.</p> <p>On Sept. 13, a new hot water tank, energy storage tank, cold water tank and millstar were installed. Later that day, four of Bell’s new tanks were delivered from Wisconsin on the <a href="http://www.ssbadger.com/home.aspx">S.S. Badger </a>to Ludington (photo below, left).</p> <p>The new mashtun and kettle were lowered into place two days later. All are part of a new 200-barrel brewhouse and an expansion that will also include a new fermentation cellar, a new employee area, parking lot and more.</p> <p><img style="float: left; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/a76d30e34458ba6916a027c801b7fb2c.jpg" alt="Badger6.jpg" width="256" height="170">More equipment is expected to arrive in the coming months which should allow us to get the new brewhouse up and running by January.</p> <p>Local media were on site to help share some of these important milestones. Below are some links in case you missed them. You can also take a look at the video embedd above and below.</p> <p>• <a href="http://www.wwmt.com/articles/capacity-1395895-newschannel-county.html" target="_blank">Bell's looks to expand, adding brewing capacity</a><strong> [WWMT]</strong></p> <p>• <a href="http://www.mlive.com/business/west-michigan/index.ssf/2011/09/bells_brewery_inc_expects_new.html" target="_blank">Bell's Brewery Inc. expects new 200-barrel brewhouse to begin operation in January (with video)</a> <strong>[MLive.co</strong><strong>m/Kalamazoo Gazette]</strong></p> <p>• <a href="http://www.fox17online.com/news/fox17-bells-brewery-expansion-cheers-bells-brewery-begins-17m-expansion-project-20110915,0,2829304.story" target="_blank">Cheers! Bell's Brewery Begins $17M Expansion Project </a><strong>[Fox 17]</strong></p> <p> <object style="width: 326px; height: 248px;" data="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="326" height="248"> <param name="data" value="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1"> <param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF"> <param name="flashVars" value="videoId=1162059043001&amp;linkBaseURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwmt.com%2Farticles%2Fcapacity-1395895-newschannel-county.html&amp;playerID=23179048001&amp;playerKey=AQ~~,AAAAADpx-JM~,7LYcb4Awwz9XL9sK2lbqoyUZfFQxF9FA&amp;domain=embed&amp;dynamicStreaming=true"> <param name="base" value="http://admin.brightcove.com"> <param name="seamlesstabbing" value="false"> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"> <param name="swLiveConnect" value="true"> <param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"> <param name="src" value="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1"> <param name="name" value="flashObj"> <param name="flashvars" value="videoId=1162059043001&amp;linkBaseURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwmt.com%2Farticles%2Fcapacity-1395895-newschannel-county.html&amp;playerID=23179048001&amp;playerKey=AQ~~,AAAAADpx-JM~,7LYcb4Awwz9XL9sK2lbqoyUZfFQxF9FA&amp;domain=embed&amp;dynamicStreaming=true"> <param name="allowfullscreen" value="true"> </object> </p> <p>For more images, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BellsBreweryInc" target="_blank">go here</a>.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-09-22T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer events for this week include special tappings of Oracle and eccentric prom attire http://bellsbeer.com/news/39-Bell%27s%20beer%20events%20for%20this%20week%20include%20special%20tappings%20of%20Oracle%20and%20eccentric%20prom%20attire%20 <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/7159cb9149312d74113bdc798af01a92.png" alt="BellTheOracleLabelFrnt.jpg" height="198" width="200">Here is a look at some Bell’s beer events this week in Kentucky, Indiana and Wisconsin.</p> <h2>Kentucky</h2> <h3>Bell’s Day at The Nachbar</h3> <p><strong>When:</strong> Sep. 20</p> <p><strong>Where:</strong> The Nachbar, 969 Charles St., Louisville</p> <p><strong>Details:</strong> Hopslam will be available and a special keg of The Oracle will be tapped at 10 p.m.</p> <p><strong>More info:</strong> Call 502-637-4377</p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3>Oracle Tapping</h3> <p><strong>When:</strong> Sept. 22, 6 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Where:</strong> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Heorot-Pub-and-Draught-House/141124577369" target="_blank">The Heorot</a>, 219 South Walnut, Muncie</p> <p><strong>Details:</strong> Two Hearted, Amber, Oberon, Porter, Octoberfest, and Oarsman Ale will also be on tap. Oracle pints will be $5.25. Other Bell’s pints will be $2.25.</p> <p><strong>More info:</strong> Call 765-287-0173</p> <h2>Wisconsin</h2> <h3>Bell’s Prom</h3> <p><strong>When:</strong> Sept. 24 at 9 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Where:</strong> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Cowtown-Saloon-aka-The-Livery/99599250529?sk=wall" target="_blank">The Cowtown Saloon aka The Livery</a>, 316 Wisconsin St., Eau Claire</p> <p><strong>Details:</strong> Eccentric prom attire required.</p> <p><strong>More info:</strong> Call 715-833-7666 for more information.</p> <h2>Looking ahead to next week</h2> <p>Three chances to sample Q-Falls in Pennsylvania, tailgating in St. Joe Michigan, Elliott Street Art &amp; Flux in Atlanta and more.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-09-19T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News A redesigned, more convenient way to shop for Bell’s merchandise, homebrewing supplies is now online http://bellsbeer.com/news/38-A%20redesigned%2C%20more%20convenient%20way%20to%20shop%20for%20Bell%E2%80%99s%20merchandise%2C%20homebrewing%20supplies%20is%20now%20online <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/e6bf7e690220cad35f42538e1d5240eb.jpg" alt="OnlineStoreGraphic.jpg" height="301" width="421">You may have noticed that the online version of the <a title="General Store" href="/index.php?cID=139">Bell’s General Store</a> has been undergoing some major renovations over the last few weeks.</p> <p>Not only has the store been given a face-lift, but the entire site has been redesigned from the bottom up.</p> <p>"It’s now more secure. Processing orders is faster and overall, it’s a more pleasant and modern shopping experience,” said Drew Bell, General Store Online Manager.</p> <p>The website debuted in 2001 and hasn't had a major update like this in at least four years.</p> <p>Drew and Adam Stubbs of<a href="http://ace4it.com/index.php" target="_blank"> Advantage Communication Enterprises</a>, a Kalamazoo based web development company, have been planning and developing this latest overhaul for the last year-and-a-half.</p> <p>“This is an ongoing process. We will continue to make improvements over the next few months and beyond to make sure our customers have the best possible experience. We want to make sure it’s hassle free, that customers get a good price, they are happy with their purchases and they get them on time,” said Drew.</p> <p><strong>Some of the new features include:</strong></p> <p>• <strong>Faster image and page loading</strong></p> <p>• <strong>Improved site search and navigation:</strong> The search tool will offer suggestions with images to help you quickly find what you are looking for.</p> <p>• <strong>Sharable wish lists:</strong> Add as much as you like and share with your friends and families. Use them for holidays, birthdays and more.</p> <p>•<strong> Additional account management tools and easier tracking:</strong> Manage multiple shipping and billing addresses, view your order status and track it from home as well.</p> <p>• <strong>New Bell’s saver shipping and free shipping on select items:</strong> Choose the most economical and preferred shipping method while saving money.</p> <p>• <strong>Up to date information pages: </strong>Stay current on return and exchange policies – quick and easy.</p> <p>The Bell’s online store will also start accepting additional payment methods including Master Card, VISA and Discover soon. Gift cards that will be redeemable online, in person at both the General Store, 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave. in downtown Kalamazoo, or at the adjoining Eccentric Café will also be available in the next few months as well.</p> <p><a title="General Store" href="/index.php?cID=139">Explore the redesigned website here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-09-20T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's Brewery invited to brew new beer for Real Ale & Cider Festival in Britain http://bellsbeer.com/news/37-Bell%27s%20Brewery%20invited%20to%20brew%20new%20beer%20for%20Real%20Ale%20%26%20Cider%20Festival%20in%20Britain <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/69e0fd79e91d4f62ddc6f2fc1df55533.JPG" alt="UnionSystem.JPG" width="298" height="223">ENGLAND – Bell’s Brewery sent one of its own more than 3,000 miles away from home to help create a new beer.</p> <p>This beer will help those who frequent about 850 establishments across Britain get to know both Bell’s and American brewing a little better.</p> <p>Bell’s Production Supervisor John Mallett arrived in the UK early last week to help brew about 300 barrels of Kalamazoo Black Silk, an oatmeal porter at <a href="http://www.marstons.co.uk/">Marston’s Brewery </a>in Burton upon Trent.</p> <p>“I want it to drink silky smooth and be a very traditional cask conditioned beer with an American twist. It will be very flavorable, but very low in alcohol,” he said by phone after his arrival.</p> <p><a href="http://www.jdwetherspoon.co.uk/">J.D. Wetherspoon</a>, the largest pub chain in England, will serve this new creation during what they are calling the world’s biggest <a href="http://www.jdwrealale.co.uk/">Real Ale &amp; Cider Festival</a>.</p> <p>Wetherspoon invites international brewers to selected UK breweries, which gives them a chance to try something different, but it also has benefits for the visiting brewer as well.</p> <p>In England, most people have already heard about Kalamazoo. It has resonance, but no one really has any idea where it is, Mallett said.</p> <p><img style="float: left; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/8f3af06f5afc87886008ecf29e58b30d.JPG" alt="MarstonExterior.JPG" width="168" height="111">“It’s a great opportunity to brew in a different environment. It enhances the Bell’s brand; it gets our name out there and even promotes beer tourism,“ he said.</p> <p>Marston uses a recirculatng fermentation or union system (pictured above) that features a row of casks connected to a common trough with a series of pipes. As the beer ferments and carbon dioxide is produced, the barrels foam over. A swan neck pipe with a 180 degree turn pours liquid into the trough abo<img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/9345930dd0ce87f0fdd90ca96b3d64f9.JPG" alt="OldSchoolTools.JPG" width="190" height="143">ve. The yeast settles out to be used again and the beer flows back into the casks.</p> <p>The brewery even has an active union cooper constantly rebuilding the system using some pretty old school tools (photo at right).</p> <p>While it won’t be available here in the U.S., brewing Kalamazoo Black Silk will still have some additional benefits for beer fans back home.</p> <p>Mallett said he is very interested in working with some unusual ingredients at Bell’s downtown Kalamazoo brewery that he had never come across before including golden naked oats and malts from a Dutch malting company in Northern England.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-09-09T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer events for the week of Sept. 5 include 3rd Annual U.P Beer Festival, Homebrew Expo, Beer Garden closer, an Oracle tapping and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/36-Bell%27s%20beer%20events%20for%20the%20week%20of%20Sept.%205%20include%203rd%20Annual%20U.P%20Beer%20Festival%2C%20Homebrew%20Expo%2C%20Beer%20Garden%20closer%2C%20an%20Oracle%20tapping%20and%20more <p><img style="float: right; margin: 15px; border: 0.5px solid black;" onmouseover="this.src='/files/cache/3971d04831959998fe1e4c11bc229ea9.jpg';" src="/files/cache/3971d04831959998fe1e4c11bc229ea9.jpg" alt="BreweryToursFlyer.jpg" height="389" width="300">Here is a look at Bell’s beer events this week in Michigan, Illinois and Indiana.</p> <h2>Michigan</h2> <h3><strong>An evening with the Henhouse Prowlers</strong></h3> <p><strong>When:</strong> Sept. 8, 9:30 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Where:</strong> Bell’s Eccentric Café, 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo</p> <p><strong>Details:</strong> Winners of the 2010 Northwest String Summit Band Competition. Bluegrass, acoustic and indie music</p> <p><strong>Cost:</strong> $5</p> <p><strong>More info:</strong><a href="http://www.henhouseprowlers.com/"> </a><a href="http://www.henhouseprowlers.com/">henhouseprowlers.com</a></p> <h3><strong>Bell’s tap takeover</strong></h3> <p><strong>When: </strong>Sept. 9, starting at 4 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Where:</strong> Upfront &amp; Company, 102 E. Main St., Marquette</p> <p><strong>Details: </strong>Try rare and specialty drafts.</p> <p><strong>More info:</strong> Call 906-228-5200 or visit <a href="http://upfrontandcompany.com/">upfrontandcompany.com</a></p> <h3><strong>Bell’s beer tasting</strong></h3> <p><strong>When:</strong> Sept. 9, from 2-4 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Where: </strong>The Den, 2917 Howard St., Kalamazoo</p> <p><strong>Details:</strong> Pouring Two Hearted Ale, Porter, Oarsman Ale and Octoberfest Beer.</p> <p><strong>More info:</strong> Call 269-381-5857 or go online to <a href="http://www.discountden.com/">discountden.com</a></p> <h3><strong>An evening with The David Mayfield Parade</strong></h3> <p><strong>When: </strong>Sept. 9, 9:30 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Where:</strong> Bell’s Eccentric Café, 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo</p> <p><strong>Details:</strong> Americana, folk, rock, roots music</p> <p><strong>Cost:</strong> $6</p> <p><strong>More info:</strong><a href="http://thedavidmayfieldparade.com/"> </a><a href="http://thedavidmayfieldparade.com/">thedavidmayfieldparade.com</a></p> <h3><strong>3<sup>rd</sup> Annual U.P. Beer Festival</strong></h3> <p><strong>When:</strong> Sept. 10, from 1-6 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Where:</strong> Mattson Lower Harbor Park, next to Lake Superior in Marquette</p> <p><strong>Details:</strong> 30 Michigan craft brewers. Rain or shine event. Bell’s will be pouring Oberon, Two Hearted IPA, Amber Ale, Pale Ale, Octoberfest, Oarsman, Quinannan Falls Special Lager, Black Note Stout, Batch 10,000 and Kalamazoo Stout</p> <p><strong>Cost: </strong>$30 in advance or $35 at the gate.</p> <p><strong>More info:</strong> Visit <a href="http://www.mbgmash.org/">mbgmash.org</a> or<a href="http://www.michiganbrewersguild.org"> michiganbrewersguild.org</a>.<img style="margin: 30px 15px; border: 0.5px solid black; float: right;" src="/files/cache/19cb74385937367f4f62c8087d9b8a0f.jpg" alt="Hollingsworth.jpg" height="126" width="208"></p> <h3><strong>Bell’s Beer Garden Closer/Homebrew Expo &amp; Competition/Brewery tours/Hot Dog Eating Contest/Meet and Greet<br></strong></h3> <p><strong>When:</strong> Sept. 10 starting at 11 a.m.</p> <p><strong>Where:</strong> Bell’s Eccentric Café, 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo</p> <p><strong>Cost:</strong> Tours, hot dog eating contest and homebrew expo are all free. Tickets for the Beer Garden Closer with Kyle Hollingsworth Band and The MacPodz are $15.</p> <p><strong>More info:</strong> For complete details, <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/news/35-Join_us_for_homebrew_events__Bell_s_brewery_tours__a_hot_dog_eating_contest_and_the_Beer_Garden_closer_on_Sept__10">go here</a>.</p> <h2>Illinois</h2> <h3><strong>Chicago Botanic Garden Farm Dinner</strong></h3> <p><strong>When:</strong> Sept. 7 at 5 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Where:</strong> Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe</p> <p><strong>Details:</strong> Celebrate the connection between farmland and locally grown food with Bell’s beer.</p> <p><strong>Cost: </strong>$200 per person</p> <p><strong>More info:</strong> Call 847-835-5440 or go online to <a href="http://www.chicagobotanic.org/">chicagobotanic.org</a></p> <h3><strong>Octoberfest tasting and party</strong></h3> <p><strong>When:</strong> Sept. 8, from 5-8 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Where: </strong>Gene's Sausage Shop, 4750 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago</p> <p><strong>Details:</strong> Kick off the German American Heritage Festival Weekend with Octoberfest on the rooftop (weather permitting).</p> <p><strong>More info:</strong> Call 773-728-7243 or go online to <a href="http://genessausageshop.com/">genessausageshop.com</a></p> <h2>Indiana</h2> <h3><strong><img style="margin: 5px 10px; float: left;" src="/files/cache/dfc4986d548bedc97467c736899110d1.png" alt="BellTheOracleLabelFrnt.jpg" height="134" width="137">Oracle tapping</strong></h3> <p><strong>When: </strong>Sept. 9, starting at 4 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Where:</strong> Constant Spring, 219 S. Main St., Goshen</p> <p><strong>Details:</strong> Oberon, Octoberfest and Two Hearted Ale will also be on tap. Bottles of Oarsman, Pale Ale, Amber Ale and Two Hearted will be featured as well. Live music.</p> <p><strong>Cost:</strong> No cover charge.</p> <p><strong>More info:</strong> Call 574-533-3302 or go online to <a href="http://www.aconstantspring.com">aconstantspring.com</a></p> <h3><strong>Zoo Brew III</strong></h3> <p><strong>When:</strong> Sept. 10, from 7-10 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Where: </strong>Potawatomi Zoo, 500 S. Greenlawn Ave., South Bend</p> <p><strong>Details:</strong> Tickets are sold out. Proceeds will benefit wildlife conservation, new naturalistic exhibits for the animals and education programs.</p> <p><strong>More info:</strong> Visit <a href="http://www.potawatomizoo.org/Zoo_Brew.asp">potawatomizoo.org</a>.</p> <h2>Pennsylvania</h2> <h3><strong>Bell's tap takeover</strong></h3> <p><strong>When:</strong> Sept. 9, starting at 4:30 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Where:</strong> Harris Grill, 5747 Ellsworth Ave., Pittsburgh</p> <p><strong>Details:</strong> 10 Bell’s beers on tap, including Expedition Stout and Batch 10,000</p> <p><strong>For more info:</strong> Call 412-362-5273 or visit them online at <a href="http://www.harrisgrill.com/">harrisgrill.com.</a></p> <h2>Looking ahead to next week</h2> <p>Minute to Win it Party at Shakespeare’s Pub in Kalamazoo, A Celebration of Food, Beer and Music at Central City Tap House, Edgewater Lounge 10 Year Anniversary Party and more.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-09-06T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Join us for homebrew events, Bell's brewery tours, a hot dog eating contest and the Beer Garden closer on Sept. 10 http://bellsbeer.com/news/35-Join%20us%20for%20homebrew%20events%2C%20Bell%27s%20brewery%20tours%2C%20a%20hot%20dog%20eating%20contest%20and%20the%20Beer%20Garden%20closer%20on%20Sept.%2010 <p><img style="border: 0.5px solid black; float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/cce8f263643e86604153b70bf99609a4.jpg" alt="A view of our bottling line" width="400" height="267">Sept. 10 is going to be a very busy day for Bell’s Brewery.</p> <p>We will be hosting not one or two, but seven different events at <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Bell’s Eccentric Café</a>, 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., in downtown Kalamazoo and at our production facility, 8938 Krum Ave., in Comstock.</p> <p>Here’s a look at what’s scheduled.</p> <h2>2<sup>nd</sup> Annual Bell’s Homebrew Expo and Competition (kick-off)</h2> <p>The Expo will take place from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. and feature local and regional homebrew suppliers. There will be representatives from the <a href="http://www.homebrewersassociation.org/">American Homebrew Association (AHA)</a> and the <a href="http://www.klob.org/">Kalamazoo Libation Organization of Brewers (KLOB)</a>. If you want to take part in this year’s competition, you can sign-up beginning at 11 a.m. Wort can be picked up beginning at 1 p.m. For more information, <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/news/34-2nd_Annual_Bell_s_Homebrew_Expo_and_Competition_announced__winner_will_get_to_brew_their_beer_on_our_system_to_go_on_tap_at_Eccentric_Cafe">go here</a>.</p> <h2>Brewery tours</h2> <p>You can tour the original facility located next to the Eccentric Café in downtown Kalamazoo, head out to the Open House at our Comstock brewery, or do both. The Comstock facility will be open to the public from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., and we will be offering free food and soda there as well.</p> <h2>4<sup>th</sup> Annual Bell’s Hot Dog Eating Contest</h2> <p>The eating marathon begins at 4 p.m. It’s free to enter and includes a t-shirt, plus all the dogs you can stomach. Sign-up at the Café, call Jason Reicherts at &nbsp;269-250-8485 or email <a href="mailto:jason@bellsbeer.com">jason@bellsbeer.com</a>.</p> <h2>Beer Garden Closer/Meet and Greet</h2> <p><a href="http://www.kylehollingsworth.com/">Kyle Hollingsworth</a> of String Cheese Incident and our very own Laura Bell will host a meet and greet and talk about all things beer at 8:30 p.m.</p> <p><a href="http://www.themacpodz.com/fr_home.cfm">The Macpodz</a> will also add their “Disco Bebop” to the mix before Kyle Hollingsworth and his band take the stage at 9:30 p.m. to close out another great year. Don’t miss this amazing team-up of talent.</p> <p>For updates, check back here or stay in touch on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BellsBreweryInc">Facebook </a>and <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/BellsBrewery">Twitter</a>.</p> <h2>Hour by hour breakdown</h2> <p><em><strong>Downtown Kalamazoo</strong></em></p> <p><strong>All day:</strong> Get $1 off pints if you wear your Bell's apparel.</p> <p><strong>11 a.m.:</strong> Homebrew Expo and Cafe open. Sign-up for competition begins.</p> <p><strong>Early afternoon:</strong> Brewery tours</p> <p><strong>1 p.m.:</strong> Wort pickup (until gone)</p> <p><strong>3 p.m.:</strong> Homebrew Expo ends</p> <p><strong>4 p.m.: </strong>&nbsp;Hot Dog Eating Contest - free to enter, also includes t-shirt</p> <p><strong>8:30 p.m.:</strong> &nbsp;Meet and greet, beer discussion with Laura Bell and Kyle Hollingsworth</p> <p><strong>9:30 p.m.:</strong> &nbsp;Beer Garden Closer featuring Kyle Hollingsworth Band and The Macpodz</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><em><strong>Comstock</strong></em></p> <p><strong>11 a.m. - 4 p.m.:</strong> Open House - tours, free food &amp; soda</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-09-01T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News 2nd Annual Bell's Homebrew Expo and Competition announced; winner will get to brew their beer on our system to go on tap at Eccentric Cafe http://bellsbeer.com/news/34-2nd%20Annual%20Bell%27s%20Homebrew%20Expo%20and%20Competition%20announced%3B%20winner%20will%20get%20to%20brew%20their%20beer%20on%20our%20system%20to%20go%20on%20tap%20at%20Eccentric%20Cafe <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/5813/1412/7766/HomebrewBigBoard.jpg" alt="HomebrewBigBoard.jpg" height="322" width="441">KALAMAZOO ­– Have you always wanted your beer up on the big board at Bell’s<a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/"> Eccentric Café</a> alongside Oberon, Two Hearted, Porter and others?</p> <p>Here’s your chance – we’ll even provide the wort.</p> <p>On Sept.10, Bell’s Brewery Inc. will host its second annual Homebrew Expo and Competition at the Café in downtown Kalamazoo.</p> <p>The homebrewer who takes first place honors will get the chance to brew his or her beer with our downtown brewer Andy Farrell. The winning beer will be served on draft alongside other Bell’s favorites at the Eccentric Café.</p> <p>First and second runners-up will receive gift certificates to the Bell’s General Store.</p> <p>The expo will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. You can sign up for the competition starting at 11 a.m.</p> <p>What you choose to enter is entirely up to you. The only requirement is that each entry must be brewed with Bell’s wort, which can be picked up beginning at 1 p.m.</p> <p>Homebrewers should bring a sanitized vessel with them to transport the wort home (plastic bucket, corny keg, carboy or cooler).</p> <p>The wort will be made with 100-percent Michigan grown pale malt. It will be minimally boiled and completely unhopped. You will have complete freedom from there.</p> <p>Last year’s winning entry was a collaborative IPA brewed by brothers Jarrett and Bailey Cupp and Paul Gentz called Oscars Folly. More than 60 homebrewers participated in the inaugural event.</p> <p>Representatives from the <a href="http://www.klob.org/">Kalamazoo Libation Organization of Brewers (KLOB)</a>, the <a href="http://www.homebrewersassociation.org/">American Homebrewers Association (AHA)</a> and local suppliers will also be at the expo to talk about homebrewing, answer questions and raffle off some Michigan and Indiana products.</p> <p>Scheduled to be there are:</p> <p>• <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Brew-Hauler/272862058186?sk=wall">Brew Hauler</a> (Plainwell)</p> <p>• <a href="http://www.stirstarters.com/">Stir Starters</a> (stir plates, southwest Michigan)</p> <p>• <a href="http://coldbreakbrewing.com/Home_Page.html">Coldbreak Brewing</a> (wort chillers, Grand Rapids)</p> <p>• <strong>Fetzer Farms </strong>(hop rhizomes)</p> <p>• <a href="http://www.blichmannengineering.com/">Blichmann Engineering</a></p> <p>Prizes from <a href="http://www.brewcraft.net/">Brewcraft</a>, <a href="http://www.barleycrusher.com/">BC Products Enterprises Inc. </a>(another Michigan company that makes the Barley Crusher MaltMill sold at the General Store) and <a href="http://www.whitelabs.com/">White Labs</a> will also be given away.</p> <p>If you are interested in entering, below are the complete details.</p> <p>As mentioned above, the wort will be made with 100-percent Michigan grown pale malt. The initial OE of the base wort will be roughly 12 Plato (about 1.048 gravity), which will yield a knock-out gravity of 13+ Plato (about 1.052 gravity) after the final boil. Left unchanged, the fermentability will result in a beer with approximately 6% ABV.</p> <p>Again, the wort will be minimally boiled and entirely unhopped, giving you complete freedom with your recipe. However, homebrewers will have to complete the kettle boil on their own systems.</p> <p>There are no restrictions or style guidelines for the final beer, as long as it uses the base wort provided by Bell’s Brewery Inc. Beers will be judged based on a purely hedonic scale, not formal Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP) criteria.</p> <p>Please submit four (4) bottles of your homebrew made with Bell’s wort. The bottles must be submitted to Bell’s by 9 p.m. Oct. 28 with your entry form and properly identified with the labels provided. Any late entries will not be considered. They can be dropped off at the Bell’s General Store, Attn: Bell’s Homebrew Competition.</p> <p><strong>Winners will be announced Sunday, Nov. 6 during All Stouts Day at Bell’s Eccentric Cafe.</strong></p> <p>For more information, email <a href="mailto:dcurtis@bellsbeer.com">dcurtis@bellsbeer.com</a>.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-08-23T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's Eccentric Cafe servers are now all Certified Beer Servers as recognized by Cicerone Certification Program http://bellsbeer.com/news/33-Bell%27s%20Eccentric%20Cafe%20servers%20are%20now%20all%20Certified%20Beer%20Servers%20as%20recognized%20by%20Cicerone%20Certification%20Program <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px;" src="/files/cache/b03e496c9fc81b7c9b2b2f84b14ed7da.jpg" alt="CiceroneLogo.jpg" height="70" width="336">KALAMAZOO –Bell’s Brewery Inc. is proud to announce that all servers at its Eccentric Café are now Certified Beer Servers as recognized by the Cicerone Certification Program.</p> <p>All 13 recently completed the process which is the first step in becoming a Certified Cicerone, the beer equivalent of the wine sommelier.</p> <p>It’s an effort to arm our staff with the knowledge to serve good beer, said Jason Reicherts, Retail &amp; Pub Manager for the Eccentric Café.</p> <p>“We want to do everything in our power to help our customers and give them the service they deserve. It’s an investment in service,” he said.</p> <p>To become a Certified Beer Server one must possess a competent knowledge of beer storage and service issues as well as a modest knowledge of current popular beer styles, culture and a basic familiarity with beer tasting and flavors. Servers also need to be familiar with the brewing process and ingredients, according to Cicerone.org.</p> <p>The program’s founder and director, Ray Daniels, is a veteran of the U.S. beer industry and president of the Craft Beer Institute. Daniels has experience in nearly every aspect of brewing and beer service.</p> <p>On April 21, the Cicerone program recognized its 5,000 Certified Beer Server.</p> <p>Bell’s is a proud supporter of the Cicerone Certification Program.</p> <p>Every Bell’s employee also goes through extensive training on the history of Bell’s and its beers.</p> <p>For more information about the Cicerone program, visit <a href="http://www.cicerone.org/">www.cicerone.org</a>.</p> <p>The Eccentric Café is located at 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave. in Kalamazoo, MI and is open from 11 a.m. to midnight Mondays-Wednesdays; 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Thursdays-Saturdays and noon to midnight Sundays.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-08-22T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer events this week include Octoberfest, a special firkin, Traverse City Summer Microbrew & Music Festival and more http://bellsbeer.com/news/32-Bell%27s%20beer%20events%20this%20week%20include%20Octoberfest%2C%20a%20special%20firkin%2C%20Traverse%20City%20Summer%20Microbrew%20%26%20Music%20Festival%20and%20more <p>Here is a look at Bell’s beer events this week in Michigan, Illinois, Indiana and North Carolina.</p> <h2><strong>Michigan</strong></h2> <p><strong>3<sup>rd</sup> Annual Traverse City Summer Microbrew &amp; Music Festival</strong></p> <p><strong>When:</strong> Saturday, Aug. 27, 4-10 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Where:</strong> The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, Traverse City</p> <p><strong>Details:</strong> About ten Bell’s beers will be on tap.</p> <p><strong>More info:</strong> For a complete list of breweries, music and food go to <a href="http://www.porterhouseproductions.com/">www.porterhouseproductions.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><a href="eccentric-cafe/events-calendar/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1362"><strong>Delilah DeWylde &amp; The Lost Boys </strong></a></p> <p><strong>When: </strong>Thursday, Aug 25, at 9:30 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Where:</strong> Bell’s Eccentric Café, 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo</p> <p><strong>Cost:</strong> $5</p> <p><strong>Details:</strong> Americana, country, rockabilly</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><a href="eccentric-cafe/events-calendar/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1363"><strong>Future Rock </strong></a></p> <p><strong>When: </strong>Friday, Aug. 26 at 9:30 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Where:</strong> Bell’s Eccentric Café, 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo</p> <p><strong>Cost:</strong> $10</p> <p><strong>Details:</strong> Electronica, progressive house, rock.</p> <p><br> <br> <a href="eccentric-cafe/events-calendar/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1344"><strong>Rollinghead </strong></a></p> <p><strong>When: </strong>Saturday, Aug. 27 at 9:30 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Where:</strong> Bell’s Eccentric Café, 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo</p> <p><strong>Cost:</strong> $10</p> <p><strong>Details:</strong>&nbsp; Kalamazoo Rock and Roll!</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>Illinois</strong></h2> <p><strong>Bell’s Octoberfest pairing</strong></p> <p><strong>When:</strong> Wednesday, Aug. 24, 5 p.m. – close</p> <p><strong>Where:</strong> Longman &amp; Eagle, 2657 N. Kedzie Ave., Chicago</p> <p><strong>Details:</strong> Get your first taste of Bell's Octoberfest. Chef Jared Wentworth will pair a 10oz. pour with &nbsp;housemade pork sausage, lentils, kale and pork sugo.</p> <p><strong>Cost</strong>: $11</p> <p><strong>More info:</strong> Go to <a href="http://longmanandeagle.com/" target="_new">http://longmanandeagle.com/</a> or call 773-276-7110.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Bell’s sampling</strong></p> <p><strong>When: </strong>Friday, Aug. 26, 3-6 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Where:&nbsp;</strong> Evanston 1st Liquors, 1019 Davis St., Evanston</p> <p><strong>Details:</strong> Sample some great beers and ask questions.</p> <p><strong>More info:</strong> Call 847-328-9651.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Bell’s BBQ and Bluegrass</strong></p> <p><strong>When:</strong> Saturday, Aug. 27, 4-8 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Where:</strong> Sheffield’s, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave, Chicago</p> <p><strong>Details:</strong> Bell’s will take over the taps in the beer garden with a side of bluegrass.</p> <p><strong>More info:</strong> Call 773-281-4989 or go online to <a href="http://www.sheffieldschicago.com/" target="_new">http://www.sheffieldschicago.com/</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>Indiana</strong></h2> <p><strong>Kalamazoo Stout firkin tapping</strong></p> <p><strong>When:</strong> Thursday, Aug. 25 at 6 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Where:&nbsp;</strong>Binkley’s Kitchen and Bar, 5902 N. College Ave., Indianapolis</p> <p><strong>Details: </strong>Bell’s Pale Ale, Oarsmen, Third Coast Ale and Oberon Ale will also be on tap.</p> <p><strong>Cost:</strong> $6 per pint (firkin)</p> <p><strong>More info:</strong> <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/events-2/?select=1&amp;pkeyEventID=1395">Go here.</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>North Carolina</strong></h2> <p><strong>Bell’s takes over Sam’s Quikmart</strong></p> <p><strong>When: </strong>Saturday, Aug. 27, noon-4 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Where:</strong>&nbsp; Sam’s Quick Shop, 1605 Erwin Road, Durham</p> <p><strong>Details:</strong> Rare, special drafts will be available including Sweet Potato Stout plus year round offerings.</p> <p><strong>More info:</strong> Call 919-286-4110 or go online to <a href="http://samsquikshop.com/" target="_new">http://samsquikshop.com/</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>On the horizon</strong></h2> <p>Bell’s will be taking over 18 taps in Bloomington, Indiana Aug. 30. The Eccentric Café will welcome the Corn Fed Girls along with The Red Sea Pedestrians, Back Forty and Ein Prosit! in Kalamazoo, Michigan.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-08-22T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell’s Mead now available in bottles; Wild One, Q-Falls and others will follow http://bellsbeer.com/news/31-Bell%E2%80%99s%20Mead%20now%20available%20in%20bottles%3B%20Wild%20One%2C%20Q-Falls%20and%20others%20will%20follow <p><img style="float: right; margin: 10px; border: 0.5px solid black;" src="/files/cache/bc47bed90234ef06097696adceb582d1.JPG" alt="Mead.JPG" height="220" width="294">KALAMAZOO – Today, Bell’s Mead was officially released as the third in our Eccentric Café 750ml bottle program.</p> <p>The bottles, only available at the <a title="General Store" href="/index.php?cID=139">Bell’s General Store</a>, are a unique way for us to make some of our pub only beers available to the public.</p> <p>The program debuted in June with Raspberry Ale and was followed by Wedding Ale.</p> <p>This traditional crisp, dry and time-honored beverage is made with Michigan honey. About 400 hand numbered bottles of Mead were released and retail for $19. There is a limit of two bottles per person.</p> <p>Next up in the series are <a title="Brands" href="/brands/">The Wild One Ale</a>, <a title="Brands" href="/brands/">Quinannan Falls Special Lager (Q-Falls)</a>, <a title="Brands" href="/brands/">Sparkling Ale</a> and <a title="Brands" href="/brands/">Golden Rye</a>.</p> <p>Stay tuned for specific release dates.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-08-19T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer, food and music events for the week of Aug. 15-21 http://bellsbeer.com/news/30-Bell%27s%20beer%2C%20food%20and%20music%20events%20for%20the%20week%20of%20Aug.%2015-21 <p>A look at Bell’s beer and music events coming up this week.</p> <h2><strong>Tuesday, Aug. 16</strong></h2> <p><strong>Brew-B-Que featuring Bell’s Brewery and Velvet Smoke BBQ</strong><br> <strong>Where:</strong> <a href="http://www.piccolowineroom.com/">Piccolo</a>, 23 Village Square, Glendale, Ohio<br> <strong>Time:</strong> 6-9 p.m.<br> <strong>Cost:</strong> $15 per person<br> <strong>Details:</strong> Five Bell’s beers plus one pulled pork slider, one beef brisket slider and one side. Additional food will be available to purchase. <br> <strong>More information:</strong> Call 513-771-6612.</p> <h2><strong>Wednesday, Aug. 17</strong></h2> <p><strong>Michigan beer night</strong><br> <strong>Where:</strong><a href="http://amicodc.com"> American Ice Company</a>, 917 V Street, Washington DC<br> <strong>Details:</strong> Join Bell’s and New Holland for some rare and favorite beers on tap.<br> <strong>More information:</strong> Call 202-758-3562.<br> <br><strong> Beer and slider pairing</strong><br><strong>Where: </strong><a href="http://sheffieldschicago.com">Sheffield’s Beer &amp; Wine Garden</a>, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago<br> <strong>Time:</strong> 6-9 p.m.<br> <strong>Cost:</strong> $12 per group<br> <strong>Details: </strong>Group 1 - Prime Rib Slider with Bell’s Porter, Sheffield’s House Smoked Beef Brisket with Bell’s Amber; Group 2 - Meatloaf Slider with Bell’s Kalamazoo Stout, Pico de Gallo Burger with Bell’s Golden Rye; Group 3 - Fried Buffalo Chicken Slider with Bell’s Pale Ale, Italian Beef Slider with Two Hearted.</p> <h2><strong> Thursday, Aug. 18</strong></h2> <p><strong>Bell’s beer and cheese pairing</strong><br> <strong>Where:</strong> <a href="http://littlemisswhiskeys.com/">Little Miss Whiskies</a>, 1104 H Street, Washington DC<br> <strong>Time: </strong>7 p.m.<br> <strong>Cost:</strong> $30<br> <strong>Details: </strong>Join Derek Zomonski for a casual tasting of six Bell’s beers each paired with a different cheese. Space is limited. <br> <strong>More information:</strong> Call 812-369-9990.</p> <p><strong>An evening with Lying Delilah</strong><br> <strong>Where: </strong><a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Bell’s Eccentric Café</a>, 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo, MI<br> <strong>Time:</strong> 9:30 p.m.<br> <strong>Cost:</strong> $5<br> <strong>Details:</strong> Lounge, progressive, rock<br><strong>More info:</strong><a href="http://www.lyingdelilah.com/" target="_blank"> www.lyingdelilah.com/</a></p> <h2><strong>Friday, Aug. 19</strong></h2> <p><strong>An evening with Bryan Michael Fischer Band</strong><br> <strong>Where:</strong> <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Bell’s Eccentric Café</a>, 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo, MI<br> <strong>Time:</strong> 9:30 p.m.<br> <strong>Cost: </strong>$6<br> <strong>Details:</strong> Blues, rock, R&amp;B</p> <h2><strong><cite></cite>Saturday, Aug. 20</strong></h2> <p><strong>An evening with Minor Profits</strong><br> <strong>Where:</strong> <a title="Eccentric Café" href="/eccentric-cafe/">Bell’s Eccentric Café</a>, 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo, MI<br> <strong>Time:</strong> 9:30 p.m.<br> <strong>Cost:</strong> $5<br> <strong>Details: </strong>Rock, Americana, acoustic<br><strong>More info:</strong><a href="http://www.myspace.com/theminorprofits" target="_blank"> www.myspace.com/theminorpr?ofits</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>Looking ahead to next week</strong></h2> <p>3<sup>rd</sup> Annual Traverse City Summer Microbrew &amp; Music Festival, October Fest pairing at Longman &amp; Eagle (Illinois) and Bell’s BBQ and Bluegrass. <a title="Regional Events" href="/events-2/">Find more events here.</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-08-15T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Letter addresses Bell's Brewery Inc. 2011 capacity constraints http://bellsbeer.com/news/29-Letter%20addresses%20Bell%27s%20Brewery%20Inc.%202011%20capacity%20constraints <p><img style="border: 0.5px solid black; margin: 15px; float: right;" src="/files/cache/d3e38fdd7471d7518084656a2a95f7d0.JPG" alt="bellsbrewhouseconstruction.JPG" height="200" width="300">First and foremost all of us here at Bell’s want to thank you for the support you’ve shown for our beers this year! Our growth over the past few years has exceeded everyone’s expectations to the point that we simply are not able to keep up with demand. We’d also like to assure you that we do not have any intentions of pulling out of any states that we are currently selling beer in.</p> <p>We feel that we are able to do this because we have started the process of increasing capacity to meet that growing demand.&nbsp; <a href="http://cms.bellsbeer.com/news/8-Bell_s_Owner_Announces_Expansion" target="_blank">The expansion projec</a>t includes an additional, larger brewhouse, increased fermentation and dry hopping capabilities, and new grain handling facilities.&nbsp; The additional capacity is scheduled to come on line early in 2012. Unfortunately until that time we will be forced to spread the beer we can produce to our existing customers as best we can.</p> <p>The hardest hit has been Two Hearted Ale as demand has been off the charts!&nbsp; Beyond the simple numbers crunch however, this beer requires special fermentation tanks for the dry hopping process making it impossible to shift brewing from other brands.&nbsp; The additions to the brewery will include significant enhancements to our overall brewing capacity and to Two Hearted production in particular.&nbsp; It is important to note that we will continue to allocate this brand until the new production facility is up and running.&nbsp; We will be working with all of our distributor, retail, and restaurateur partners to apply this as evenly as possible throughout our current footprint.</p> <p>Thanks again for all that the support that you’ve shown for Bell’s and we very much hope that you will bear with us through our growing pains knowing that there is a bright light at the end of the tunnel.</p> <p>Sincerely,</p> <p><strong>Marty Compton</strong><br><strong>Sales Manager&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p> <p><strong>Laura Bell</strong><br><strong>Marketing Director</strong></p> <p><br><strong>Photo caption: </strong>Construction of new brewing facility is underway in Galesburg, Michigan.<strong><br></strong></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-08-11T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's Brewery, Inc. signs on as title sponsor of the 2011 Iceman Cometh Mountain Bike Challenge http://bellsbeer.com/news/28-Bell%27s%20Brewery%2C%20Inc.%20signs%20on%20as%20title%20sponsor%20of%20the%202011%20Iceman%20Cometh%20Mountain%20Bike%20Challenge <div> <h3>BELL'S BEER ICEMAN COMMETH CHALLENGE WILL WELCOME 4,700 MOUNTAIN BIKE COMPETITORS</h3> <p><strong>Traverse City, MI</strong>&nbsp;— Iceman Promotions, Inc. is proud to announce that Bell's Brewery, the largest craft brewery based in Michigan, has signed as title sponsor of the 2011 Iceman Cometh Challenge mountain bike race.</p> <p>Held each year on the first Saturday in November, participants of the 2011 Bell's Beer Iceman Cometh Challenge will take to the trail on Saturday November 5. The Bell's Beer Iceman, presented by Trek, is a safe and fast twenty-nine mile mountain bike adventure from Kalkaska to Traverse City, Michigan. The course takes riders through the hardwood forests, meadows, and cross country ski trails of the Pere Marquette State Forest. Iceman events will welcome athletes from 2 to 72 years old from 38 different states. An estimated 7,500 spectators will line the course to catch the excitement of the Bell's Beer Iceman as the competitors roll along the trail.<br>"Bellís is thrilled to lend its name to this season ending, iconic, Michigan race and is excited to continue its long standing policy of supporting cycling in the Great Lakes region,î stated Larry J. Bell, President and Founder of Bell's Brewery, Inc. based in Comstock, Michigan.</p> <p>Bell began brewing beer 25 years ago in a 15-gallon soup kettle. Today Bell's Brewery is one of the few craft breweries in the nation to remain under original ownership. Bell's produces some 170,000 barrels of beer each year and distributes its products to 18 states. Bell's, the largest brewery in Michigan, is well known for its famed summer "Oberon" wheat ale and "Two-Hearted Ale" among many other premium and specialty brands. Recently, Larry Bell announced a $52 million expansion over the next five years targeted toward meeting consumer demand and a multi-year trend of twenty percent growth annually.</p> <p>"Iceman is unique due to the unpredictable weather that occurs in Northern Michigan during November. It could be 55 degrees and sunny or it could be 20 degrees and snowy like it was last year," said Bell.<br>"Iceman Promotions, Inc. is absolutely thrilled to have a Michigan-based company with the quality reputation of Bell's Beer as the title sponsor of the Iceman," said Steve Brown, Event Director. "Since the Bell's Beer Iceman is the "unofficial" end of the riding season, the post-race celebration, featuring Bellís Beer, is as important as the race itself for most of the riders!</p> <p>The Bellís Beer Iceman weekend kicks off with the Ice Cycle Expo on Friday, November 4, from 12 noon until 9:00 PM at Grand Traverse Resort &amp; Spa. In addition to the Bell's Beer Iceman, the ìMeijer Slush Cup features a half-frozen eight mile event for beginning racers, and the Meijer Sno-Cone event, for riders under the age of 12, offers a chance for future world champions to experience the thrill mountain bike racing.</p> <p>The Bell's Beer Iceman is widely regarded as the premier mountain bike event in the Midwest and is the largest single day race in the country. Sanctioned by USA Cycling, The Bell's Beer Iceman boasts a $52,000 cash purse with $30,000 reserved for professional cyclists.</p> <p>For more information on the 22nd Annual Bell's Beer Iceman Cometh Challenge, visit Iceman Promotions online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.iceman.com/">www.iceman.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bellsbeer.com/" target="_blank">www.bellsbeer.com</a>.</p> </div> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-08-01T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's Eccentric Cafe Only 750ml bottle program to begin Monday, June 27th http://bellsbeer.com/news/27-Bell%27s%20Eccentric%20Cafe%20Only%20750ml%20bottle%20program%20to%20begin%20Monday%2C%20June%2027th <p>"Bell's Brewery is excited to announce the debut of our Eccentric Cafe 750 ml bottle program beginning this summer. As we do not fill growlers at our pub, we want to make our pub only beers available for customers to take home and we feel that offering these brands in the 750 ml format is a great way to do this! These bottles will only be sold at the General Store in downtown Kalamazoo and will not be available for distribution as packaging runs will be small, making outside sales fairly impractical.&nbsp; Over the next few months, we plan on bottling a wide variety of our pub only beers including Wedding Ale, Raspberry Ale, Mead, Sparkling Ale, and Wild One (just to start). Other brands will follow suit as they are brewed and labels are created. There will not be a set release schedule for when 750s will hit the General Store, however the program will kick off on Monday, June 27th with bottles of Wedding Ale. There also may be limits as to how many bottles can be purchased depending on the brand. We are looking forward to making these specialty beers available to leave the Eccentric Cafe in bottle for the very first time! Cheers!"</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-06-14T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's Prom Pictures Now Available http://bellsbeer.com/news/26-Bell%27s%20Prom%20Pictures%20Now%20Available <p>Thanks to all who attended Bell's Prom 2011: A Night to (try to) Remember. Pictures are now available on Flickr for your viewing pleasure. To download the pics, click on the "action" drop down menu, then select "view all sizes". From this screen you may download as you please!&nbsp;</p> <p>We can't wait to see everyone next year!</p> <p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/bells-brewery-prom-2011/">Bell's Prom Photos</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-05-05T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Public Tours Return to Bell's Brewery http://bellsbeer.com/news/25-Public%20Tours%20Return%20to%20Bell%27s%20Brewery <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Beginning May 14<sup>th</sup>, Bell's Brewery will offer public tours of the original brewery in downtown Kalamazoo, connected to the newly renovated Eccentric Café located at 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave.</p> <p>Tours are free and will be offered every weekend: <strong>Saturdays at 11:30am &amp; 1:30pm</strong>, and at <strong>2:30pm on Sundays</strong>. Tours will generally run 45 minutes in length, and will not require advance reservations. Simply show up at the Eccentric Café prior to the start of the tour, and we'll take care of the rest. We do ask that large groups call ahead so that we can make sure that we can accommodate you; please call 269/382-2338 during the week within normal business hours and ask for the tour coordinators.</p> <p>We are very excited to bring public tours back to the brewery each weekend, and we look forward to hosting you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-05-02T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's Brewery to Begin Bottle Dating Late April 2011 http://bellsbeer.com/news/24-Bell%27s%20Brewery%20to%20Begin%20Bottle%20Dating%20Late%20April%202011 <p>Bell's Brewery is proud to announce that we will begin printing packaging date information directly onto the labels of our beers in late April 2011. We have installed the necessary high-speed printing equipment and are currently fine-tuning the system and conducting final validation checks. This is a step that has been on our minds for some time now, and we are looking forward to having it fully operational soon.</p> <p>We've elected to go with the actual date of packaging rather than a "best before" date. The format will look like this:</p> <p><img style="float: left;" src="/files/4813/0270/7567/LabelDate_01.JPG" alt="LabelDate_01.JPG" width="250" height="150"></p> <p><img style="vertical-align: middle;" src="/files/7413/0270/7523/Bottle_Dating_graphic.jpg" alt="Bottle_Dating_graphic.jpg" width="250" height="141"></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The first line shows the batch number, 10302, and the second gives the bottling date. Following the bottling date is a letter that signifies a shelf life category. Currently, we are using A, B, and C to denote six months, twelve months, and unlimited respectively. Brands that would be considered having unlimited shelf lives include Expedition Stout and Third Coast Old Ale, both of which are specifically intended as candidates for long-term vintage aging.</p> <p>You may discover variations of this format on several batches from late March &amp; early April: these are from the initial trials of the printing system as we experimented with different formatting options &amp; assessed operational performance.</p> <p>For several years now, we have been printing the batch number on our bottles. This has served well, but this number doesn't directly translate into a bottling date, and we further recognize that not everyone has a web-enabled phone to check the Batch Finder feature of our website while out shopping. We will continue to print the batch number on the bottles, but we are enhancing this with the direct inclusion of the bottling date. We'll continue to maintain the Batch Finder function on our website so that batches bottled prior to the operational start date are still searchable. We will also continue to print the batch number &amp; bottling date onto the sides of each case box, just as we've done for many years.</p> <p>We're still addressing some operational details, but we plan on printing bottling dates on each &amp; every batch beginning April 25<sup>th</sup>, 2011.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-04-13T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's Brewery to be title sponsor of Bayview Yacht Club Mackinac Race http://bellsbeer.com/news/23-Bell%27s%20Brewery%20to%20be%20title%20sponsor%20of%20Bayview%20Yacht%20Club%20Mackinac%20Race <p align="center"><strong>BELL'S BEER SIGNS ON AS TITLE SPONSOR FOR THE 2011 BAYVIEW YACHT CLUB MACKINAC RACE</strong></p> <p>DETROIT, MI - Detroit's Bayview Yacht Club, one of the most storied and historical sailing clubs in the world, announced today that Bell's Brewery - a major beer producer and the largest based in Michigan -- has come aboard as the title sponsor Bayview's 2011 Port Huron to Mackinac Race.&nbsp;</p> <p>The officially titled "Bell's Beer Bayview Mackinac Race" sets sail on Saturday, July 23, 2011, in Southern Lake Huron, just north of the Blue Water Bridge.</p> <p>This year will mark 87 consecutive years for the world-class event.&nbsp; Some 200 plus sailboats and 2,500 sailors take part in the annual regatta with an estimated 100,000 sailing fans and families attending the festive activities in Port Huron leading to the Saturday start.&nbsp; For the third time, sailing fans around the world will be able to follow individual boats or the entire fleet on the Bell's Brewery and Bayview Yacht Club websites as Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking devices will be placed on all participating sailboats. In 2010, a record 4.4 million page views were hit on the web site during the race.</p> <p>"This race is iconic to the State of Michigan and one of its greatest traditions, and we at Bell's Brewery are thrilled to be a part of this phenomenal event," said Larry J. Bell, President and Founder of Bell's Brewery, Inc. based in Comstock, MI. Bell's produces some 170,000 barrels of beer each year and distributes its products to 18 states.</p> <p>Bell's, the largest brewery in Michigan, is well known for its famed summer "Oberon" wheat ale and "Two-Hearted Ale" among many other premium and specialty brands. Bell's has been a Bayview Mackinac Race sponsor since 2009. Pure Michigan, the state's travel bureau was the previous title sponsor and the Bayview Mackinac Race is the only event Pure Michigan sponsored in the state.</p> <p>"This race is unique to the Midwest and is the longest continuously run freshwater race in the world.&nbsp; It features sailing in the Great Lakes and showcases the natural beauty and fresh water resources that are unique to Michigan," said Bell&nbsp; "We welcome sailboats and racing teams from Chicago and around the world for this grand event that marks the height of a Michigan summer."</p> <p>"Bayview is absolutely thrilled to have a Michigan-based company with the high quality reputation of Bell's Beer as the title sponsor for our great race," said John C. Burke, Commodore, Bayview Yacht Club.&nbsp; "Many sailors here and throughout the country are familiar with Bell's Beer and their brands are becoming as iconic as this race.&nbsp; We welcome the Bell team's support and look forward to a fantastic year."</p> <p>"The Bayview Yacht Club web site, <a href="https://mail.bellsbeer.com/owa/redir.aspx?C=7603641a546c4e51a1fd58953bf891bc&amp;URL=http%3a%2f%2fr20.rs6.net%2ftn.jsp%3fllr%3d6ctxvscab%26et%3d1104974223080%26s%3d4567%26e%3d0015rDtilEwYu4WD97pdhX-Y-b5dlPRXs0_79dvz-sHWsPr2iSWjJ3D4VfHkTIOtnXYdVx6ilhJFKrtJjL1_zg1scYiPf7a_PplgcVP7TyvfUM%3d" target="_blank"> www.byc.com</a>, generally draws a million page views for the race; up to 10 million page views are expected to hit the www.bellsbeer.com site where the GPS tracking link for the 2011 race will be located", said 2011 Race Chairman Charlie Elmer.</p> <p>"For fans and spectators we are excited to be able to use the GPS race tracking technology to bring this race to their laptops and phones for those who cannot join us for the majestic experience of being in Port Huron for the pageantry of the race start," said Elmer. "This is one of the most challenging and exciting sailboat races in the world on one of the most unpredictable bodies of fresh water in the world."</p> <p>From its traditional start in Southern Lake Huron, the fleet will head North on one of two courses.&nbsp; The shorter course, called the "<em>Shore Course</em>," covers 204 nautical miles (252 statute miles) along the Michigan shoreline before heading west to Mackinac Island Bell's Beer finish line.&nbsp; The longer "<em>Cove Island Course" </em>is 259 nautical miles (298 statute miles) and takes the sailors around a buoy off the tip of the Bruce Peninsula in Canadian waters before heading West toward the Bell's Beer finish line at Mackinac Island.</p> <p>Commodore Burke, an "Old Goat" veteran of 34 races, said the world-class sailboat race is "steeped in generations of sportsmanship and family tradition that touches everyone who lives here or who has ever sailed the Great Lakes."</p> <p>An estimated 100,000 fans on both the U.S. and Canadian shores will cheer the sailboats as they make their way up the St. Clair River from Port Huron - with flags and pennants flying - in a spectacular nautical parade to the starting area that takes place about five miles from the Blue Water Bridge.</p> <p>"I would like to extend our appreciation for the sailors, their families, friends and the staff of Bayview for all that they do to make this event such a success.&nbsp; I congratulate the Mackinac 2011 Race Chairman, Charlie Elmer, for an amazing job in getting this race organized and setting the stage for a safe race on two courses," said Commodore Burke.</p> <p>Bayview Yacht Club, founded in 1915, is widely regarded as the premier sailing club in Michigan and the Midwest.&nbsp; It has been hosting the Bayview Mackinac Race since 1925.&nbsp; The private club is located on the Detroit River near the mouth of Lake St. Clair and has more than 1,000 members.&nbsp; For more information: <a href="https://mail.bellsbeer.com/owa/redir.aspx?C=7603641a546c4e51a1fd58953bf891bc&amp;URL=http%3a%2f%2fr20.rs6.net%2ftn.jsp%3fllr%3d6ctxvscab%26et%3d1104974223080%26s%3d4567%26e%3d0015rDtilEwYu7UHs7TwGA8FByzfIhDIMEhGZeyYhw9eDc9rL1TYqxlzSR-7xtMmIlsdvtiBo_Z2qsqlVbgCYb7Csp1qJXxA9pBa3dfksugJFA%3d" target="_blank"> www.byc.com</a>.</p> <p>Bell's Brewery celebrated its 25 anniversary in Michigan in September 2010.&nbsp; At that event Larry Bell, owner of Bell's Brewery, announced a $52 million investment over the next five years.&nbsp; For More information on Bell's Beer please visit: <a href="https://mail.bellsbeer.com/owa/redir.aspx?C=7603641a546c4e51a1fd58953bf891bc&amp;URL=http%3a%2f%2fr20.rs6.net%2ftn.jsp%3fllr%3d6ctxvscab%26et%3d1104974223080%26s%3d4567%26e%3d0015rDtilEwYu6QA1svm3DbCzIfp2VMjfPRbI91UDpMNGNexEb4iAWFQDlFJOVsFLWksDak4p_8YiWUaFxTEQ1SFwemPZw0Lkb4dOcL3JTQMynATiBJcnoMmw%3d%3d" target="_blank"> www.bellsbeer.com</a>.</p> <p>Approximately $17 million will be invested in 2011 to expand the Comstock Township plant, adding 24 new 400-barrel fermenters, a 200-barrel brew house, a new employee care area as well as space and equipment for some new specialty fermentations.&nbsp; An additional $35 million will be spent through 2016 to&nbsp;further develop the brewery's Comstock Township facility.</p> <p>Bell's Brewery is quickly outpacing the definition of a regional brewer and consumer demand for its high-quality beers are exceeding current production capacities prior to the expansion/ This $52 million investment by Bell's Brewery's is targeted toward meeting consumer demand and a multi-year trend of twenty percent growth annually.</p> <p>Bell began brewing beer as a lone entrepreneur 25 years ago in a 15-gallon soup kettle.&nbsp; Bell's Brewery is one of the few craft breweries to remain under original ownership.</p> <p>&nbsp; *********************************************************************</p> <p><strong>Editors please note</strong>: All media interested in covering the race start in Port Huron from aboard a BYC authorized boat, must register in advance for credentials at www.byc.com.&nbsp; Media inquiries on the 87th sailing of the Bell's Beer Bayview Mackinac Race or any Bayview Yacht Club issues should be directed to Bruce Babiarz at <a href="https://mail.bellsbeer.com/owa/redir.aspx?C=7603641a546c4e51a1fd58953bf891bc&amp;URL=mailto%3aBabiarz%40BABPR.com"> Babiarz@BABPR.com</a> or 248-890-5030.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-03-31T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's Brewery to begin canning in 2012 http://bellsbeer.com/news/22-Bell%27s%20Brewery%20to%20begin%20canning%20in%202012 <p>We are happy to announce that with our current brewery expansion, we are also installing a canning line as an additional packaging option for some of our brands. Final decisions on can size and brands have not been made yet. We're excited to offer Bell's drinkers a way to bring Bell's safely to the beach, the golf course, sports arenas, and poolside (just to name a few options). Look for more updates on Bell's cans as we near the completion of our expansion in 2012. Cheers!</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-03-31T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's to begin canning in 2012 http://bellsbeer.com/news/21-Bell%27s%20to%20begin%20canning%20in%202012 <p>We are excited to announce that with the current expansion happening at our brewery, we will also be installing a canning line as an additional packaging option for some of our brands. Final decisions on can size or what brands we intend to package in them have not been made yet. We look forward to enjoying Bell's cans on the beach, the golf course, sports arenas, or poolside (just to name a few options). Look for more details on Bell's cans as we get closer to the completion of our expansion in 2012. Cheers!</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-03-31T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Newly renovated Eccentric Café re-opens March 28th for 2011 Oberon Ale release. http://bellsbeer.com/news/20-Newly%20renovated%20Eccentric%20Caf%C3%A9%20re-opens%20March%2028th%20for%202011%20Oberon%20Ale%20release. <p>Coinciding with the start of the 2011 Oberon Ale Release, the Eccentric Café will mark the end of months of construction by returning to the freshly renovated original space. We've done a lot of work to improve the space, but here are just three of the more obvious changes you'll find:</p> <ul class="unIndentedList"> <li> 8 additional tap handles, making a total of 20;</li> <li> Expanded restrooms;</li> <li> More seating options.</li> </ul> <p>We'll open doors to the Eccentric Café at <strong>9:30am</strong> for the Release Party, and the General Store will open at <strong>10am</strong>. The bar in the music venue will be pouring beer as well for the Release. We'll return to our normal hours on Tuesday.</p> <p>Not in Kalamazoo Monday? Check out our <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/events-2/">Regional Events</a> page for release parties near you.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-03-25T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Official response to the Northern Brewer situation from 3/22/11 http://bellsbeer.com/news/19-Official%20response%20to%20the%20Northern%20Brewer%20situation%20from%203%2F22%2F11 <p>To all interested:</p> <p>Yesterday, Northern Brewer posted on their Facebook page about a cease and desist letter that they received from Bell's Brewery, Inc. I apologize that Bell's has taken so long to respond to this issue, but all members of management were travelling to the Craft Brewers Conference yesterday and could not get a response posted. &nbsp;</p> <p>On March 18, 2011, representatives of Bell's Brewery, Inc. sent a letter to Northern Brewer regarding that company's use of Three Hearted Ale for a homebrewing kit. This letter was sent out at a time when Bell's is having to defend it's trademarks(including Two Hearted) on several fronts. Because we are finding ourselves in this situation, we believe that is necessary to correspond in writing to those we feel are infringing on our marks. We do not know the owners of Northern Brewer nor were we familiar with the products they offered until recently. From a legal perspective a phone call was not going to provide the documented defense that we need as we try to defend this trademark now and in the future. &nbsp;</p> <p>Here is a partial extract of the letter we sent: &nbsp; "As a result of the extensive business investment by Bell's Brewery, significant goodwill has inured in the TWO HEARTED trademark." &nbsp; "While Bell's Brewery encourage the development of independent brewers and homebrewing, Bell's Brewery are concerned with your use of THREE HEARTED ALE Extract kit." &nbsp; "Bell's Brewery are of the opinion that there is a likelihood of confusion between your mark and the trademarks for TWO HEARTED owned by Bell's Brewery. The marks create the same overall commercial impression. Furthermore, the goods associated with your mark and the trademark for Two Hearted are identical." &nbsp; "Consequently, your use of THREE HEARTED is likely to create confusion, deception, or mistake among purchasers as to the origin or source of the goods/services, or convey to the purchasing public that the goods/services are approved by Bell's Brewery or that there is an affiliation or connection between you and Bell's Brewery." &nbsp;</p> <p>We have no issue with Northern Brewer other than this trademark infringement. We are flattered that they want to clone our beer-we have no problem with that. In fact, our staff recently agreed to work with Zymurgy magazine on a Two Hearted clone. Clones are not the issue. &nbsp; Neither do we have a problem with homebrewers. Bell's was founded as a homebrew shop in 1983 and has been in that business ever since. We are great supporters of the homebrew community and have underwritten many competitions, donated prizes to clubs, conducted tours with homebrew clubs, provided beer for certain AHA conventions, spoken at AHA convention, held an AHA membership rally, etc. etc.&nbsp; We have no problem with homebrewing or homebrewers. We love homebrewers. &nbsp; Bell's has worked long and hard to develop and market Two Hearted Ale. It is a very valuable asset for our company.</p> <p>As president of Bell's it is my job to protect those types of assets. That is my responsibility to my employees and their families, and to the shareholders of the company. Never were we contacted by Northern Brewer asking permission to use Three Hearted. Upon learning of Three Hearted we moved to defend an asset that we own and have owned for many years. This is our right and duty. A trademark that is not defended becomes worthless. And while some of you may think that this was harmless flattery, by not defending against this we would be opening the door for further challenges against our mark. &nbsp; At this time it would appear that Northern Brewer plans to respect and acknowledge our right to this trademark, as I understand that they are renaming their product. For this, we thank them. This is all we are asking for. &nbsp; As regards Third Street, we filed for an extension to oppose, not an opposition. The use of the extension is often used so that two companies can sit down and see what each others marks are, and if they can co-exist. Often an agreement is drawn up between the two companies for this co-existence. We are currently in that discovery phase with Third Street. &nbsp;</p> <p>I know many of you think that Bell's was heavy handed in our actions. I'm sorry you feel this way. Bell's has been on both sides of trademark issues-sometimes a winner and sometimes a loser. Twice in the history of Two Hearted we have been sent cease and desist letters regarding the labels. Additionally, we acquired the label by written permission of it's former owner who gave it up many years ago. When these actions arise we try to respect others intellectual property and conduct ourselves with a modicum of decency. Trademark law is part of being in the consumer products business. &nbsp; I hope this letter explains our position and that you will understand that we are just trying to protect what is ours. We are sorry if some of you feel offended by our action, but for us we felt it was the most professional and legally necessary means to an end. We hold no malice towards Northern Brewer, their employees or their customers. &nbsp;</p> <p>Sincerely,&nbsp; &nbsp;</p> <p>Larry J. Bell</p> <p>President</p> <p>Bell's Brewery, Inc.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-03-23T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's on Facebook http://bellsbeer.com/news/18-Bell%27s%20on%20Facebook <p>We are revamping our presence on Facebook! Please check out our newly created pages.</p> <p><a href="http://www.facebook.com/BellsBreweryInc">www.facebook.com/BellsBreweryInc</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.facebook.com/BellsEccentricCafe">www.facebook.com/BellsEccentricCafe</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-03-08T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News 2011 Oberon Ale release news http://bellsbeer.com/news/17-2011%20Oberon%20Ale%20release%20news <p>The new season of Oberon Ale will arrive the week of March 28, 2011. We're getting excited here at the brewery, and we'll have more information about official Oberon release events as we approach the date, so keep checking the <a title="Regional Events" href="/events/">Regional Events</a> page for gatherings near you. To whet your appetite, check out the mini-keg design for 2011; look for these after Memorial Day.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img style="vertical-align: middle;" title="2011 Oberon Ale mini-keg" src="/files/7212/9900/9825/Oberon%202011%20MiniKeg.jpg" alt="Oberon 2011 MiniKeg.jpg" width="400" height="307"></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-03-01T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Fake Bell's post on Craigslist http://bellsbeer.com/news/16-Fake%20Bell%27s%20post%20on%20Craigslist <p>It has recently come to our attention that there is a fraudulent job posting on Craigslist for a position with Bell's Brewery. We are currently taking the necessary steps to have this removed, and we advise that readers avoid responding to this or others like it. We are a growing company, but when we post a job openings, we'll use the <a href="http://bellsbeer.com/contact/career-opportunities/">career opportunity section</a> of our website.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-01-06T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Hopslam Ale release information http://bellsbeer.com/news/15-Hopslam%20Ale%20release%20information <p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px;">The 2011 Hopslam Ale season will begin the week of January 10<sup>th</sup>. We are currently shipping to our various wholesale partners and will fill as many trucks as we can fit onto our loading docks this week and next. The beer will be released to the market on Monday, January 10<sup>th</sup>, but depending on when they receive it at their warehouse, as well as the delivery schedule for your local retailers, you may not see it until sometime later in the month. Rest assured: we're moving to deliver all of our Hopslam Ale to you as swiftly as possible at every level in the logistics chain.</span></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2011-01-04T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Batch 10,000 Ingredients http://bellsbeer.com/news/14-Batch%2010%2C000%20Ingredients <p>Batch 10,000 has shipped from the brewery and is making it's way onto shelves and into bars. Some of you may be wondering just exactly what we mean when we say 100 malts and 60 hops. Well, wonder no longer, here is the entire ingredients list. We hope you enjoy it!</p> <p><strong>Malts &amp; Fermentables (101)</strong></p> <p>Best barley smoked<br>Briess barley 2 row brewers<br>Briess barley 6 row brewers<br>Briess barley aromatic<br>Briess barley ashburne<br>Briess barley black<br>Briess barley black barley<br>Briess barley Blackprinz<br>Briess barley bonlander<br>Briess barley C-10<br>Briess barley C-120<br>Briess barley C-20<br>Briess barley C-40<br>Briess barley C-60<br>Briess barley C-80<br>Briess barley C-90<br>Briess barley carabrown<br>Briess barley Caramunich<br>Briess barley carapils 2row<br>Briess barley Caravienne<br>Briess barley CBW - amber<br>Briess barley CBW - dark<br>Briess barley chocolate<br>Briess barley dark chocolate<br>Briess barley extra special<br>Briess barley flaked barley<br>Briess barley M-10<br>Briess barley MI-120<br>Briess barley MI-flakes<br>Briess barley pale ale<br>Briess barley pilsen<br>Briess barley roast barley<br>Briess barley smoked<br>Briess barley special roast<br>Briess barley victory<br>Briess barley vienna<br>Briess oats flaked oats<br>Briess rice flaked rice<br>Briess rye flaked rye<br>Briess rye rye<br>Briess wheat caracrystal wheat<br>Briess wheat CBW - wheat<br>Briess wheat midnight wheat<br>Briess wheat MI-wheat<br>Briess wheat red wheat<br>Briess wheat torrefied wheat<br>Briess wheat white wheat<br>Bunge corn flaked corn<br>Castle barley biscuit<br>Castle barley black<br>Castle barley special B<br>CMC barley distillers<br>Crisp barley dark munich<br>Crisp barley dextrin malt<br>Crisp barley pale chocolate<br>Dingemans barley aromatic<br>Dingemans barley biscuit<br>Dingemans barley cara 20<br>Dingemans barley cara 8<br>Durst barley turbo pils<br>Gambrinus barley ESB<br>Gambrinus barley Honey (Bruehmalz)<br>Gilbertson buckwheat torrefied buckwheat<br>Global barley Koelsch<br>Grain Millers wheat flaked wheat<br>Maltexco barley crystal<br>Muntons barley mile ale<br>Simpsons barley 50/60<br>Simpsons barley all star<br>Simpsons barley coffee malt<br>Simpsons barley crystal extra dark<br>Simpsons barley golden promise<br>Simpsons barley heritage crystal<br>Simpsons barley peated<br>Simpsons oats naked oats<br>Simpsons rye crystal rye<br>Simpsons wheat roasted coffee wheat<br>Thomas Fawcett barley amber<br>Thomas Fawcett barley brown<br>Thomas Fawcett barley chocolate<br>Thomas Fawcett barley dark crystal<br>Thomas Fawcett barley halcyon<br>Thomas Fawcett barley Maris O????er<br>Thomas Fawcett barley optic<br>Thomas Fawcett barley pearl<br>Thomas Fawcett oats oat malt<br>Weyermann barley abbey malt<br>Weyermann barley acidulated<br>Weyermann barley bohemian floor malt<br>Weyermann barley caraamber<br>Weyermann barley caraaroma<br>Weyermann barley carabelge<br>Weyermann barley carabohemian<br>Weyermann barley carafa 1<br>Weyermann barley carared<br>Weyermann barley melanoidin malt<br>Weyermann barley smoked<br>Weyermann rye chocolate rye<br>Weyermann wheat carawheat<br>Weyermann wheat chocolate wheat<br>Weyermann wheat diastatic</p> <p><strong>Kettle Hopping (58)</strong></p> <p>Ahtanum<br>Amarillo<br>Apollo<br>Bravo<br>Brewers Gold<br>Cascade<br>Centennial<br>Chinook<br>Citra<br>Cluster<br>Colombus<br>Crystal<br>CZ Saaz<br>Delta<br>Fuggle<br>Galena<br>German Magnum<br>Glacier<br>Goldings<br>GR Hersbrucker<br>Herkules<br>Horizon<br>Liberty<br>Magnum<br>Merkur<br>MI Hops<br>Millenium<br>Mt. Hood<br>Mt. Ranier<br>N Brewer<br>Newport<br>Nugget<br>NZ Motueka<br>Opal<br>Palisade<br>Perle<br>Premiant<br>Santiam<br>Saphir<br>Simcoe<br>Smaragd<br>Sorachi Ace<br>Spalt<br>Sterling<br>Strisselspalt<br>Styrian Aurora<br>Styrian Bobek<br>Styrian Goldings<br>Summitt<br>Super Galena<br>Tettnang<br>UK Challenger<br>UK E Kent Goldings<br>UK Sovereign<br>UK WGV<br>Vanguard<br>Warrior<br>Willamette</p> <p><strong>Dry Hopping (32)</strong></p> <p>Amarillo<br>Centennial<br>Chinook<br>Cluster<br>Columbus<br>Crystal<br>Galena<br>Glacier<br>Horizon<br>Liberty<br>Magnum US<br>Millennium<br>Mt Hood<br>Mt. Rainier<br>Newport<br>NZ MotuekaPalisade<br>Santiam<br>Simcoe<br>Smaragd<br>Spalt<br>Strisselspalt<br>Styrian Aurora<br>Styrian Bobek<br>Styrian Golding<br>Summit<br>Tettnang<br>UK E Kent Goldings<br>UK WGV<br>Vanguard<br>Warrior<br>Willamette</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2010-11-24T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's "Back Room" Renovation Photos http://bellsbeer.com/news/13-Bell%27s%20%22Back%20Room%22%20Renovation%20Photos <p>Construction is proceding nicely in the back room of the Eccentric Cafe, and since we don't have a set date for opening, we thought we'd share some photos of the room for those that are curious as to what it will look like.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/files/9712/8994/1101/betterviewfrommezzanine.jpg" alt="betterviewfrommezzanine.jpg" width="475" height="355"></p> <p>The view from the mezzanine.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/files/8812/8994/1231/view%20from%20stage.jpg" alt="view from stage.jpg" width="475" height="355"></p> <p>The view from the stage.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/files/5612/8994/1274/frontbar.jpg" alt="frontbar.jpg" width="475" height="355"></p> <p>The new bar nearing completion.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/files/4812/8994/1341/barview.jpg" alt="barview.jpg" width="475" height="632"></p> <p>The top of the bar.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/files/4112/8994/1384/bathroom.jpg" alt="bathroom.jpg" width="475" height="615"></p> <p>New bathrooms.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>We look forward to announcing the official opening in the near future. Stay tuned!</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2010-11-18T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Two Hearted Ale 5 Liter Artwork http://bellsbeer.com/news/12-Two%20Hearted%20Ale%205%20Liter%20Artwork <p>Get ready to see the 2011 Two Hearted 5 liter cans this winter!</p> <p><img src="/files/9512/8994/1675/TwoHeartCan2011.jpg" alt="TwoHeartCan2011.jpg" width="550" height="259"></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2010-11-16T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Batch 10,000 Packaged Today http://bellsbeer.com/news/11-Batch%2010%2C000%20Packaged%20Today <p>The last in our Batch series is being packaged today and tomorrow. While we are excited to free up some brewing space for other creative projects, the end of the Batch series marks a major milestone for us, and is a little bittersweet being the end of an era. Batch 10,000 reflects our homebrewing roots and was inspired by the the last homebrew of the season. Our owner Larry Bell remembers going through his brewing supplies and making the last homebrew out of whatever malts and hops were left from his brewing months. With this being the motivation behind our last commemorative batch series beer, we combed through the catalogs of many malt and hop suppliers to source 100 different malts, grains, and other fermentables. This is balanced by the addition of 60 different hop varietals between the kettle and dry hopping. The resulting beer presents a deep, chocolate brown hue and offers roasted and caramel notes from the malts mixed with an assertive hop character. Feel free to drink it fresh, or vintage age it as you please.</p> <p>We lift our glass in appreciation to Bell's drinkers who have helped us reach this moment in our brewery's history. Cheers to you!</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/files/6512/8994/1475/BellsBatch10000front.JPG" alt="BellsBatch10000front.JPG" width="298" height="292"></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2010-11-16T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Homebrew Competition Winners Announced http://bellsbeer.com/news/10-Homebrew%20Competition%20Winners%20Announced <p>As part of our 25th anniversary celebration in September, we gave away free wort to homebrewers as the basis for our first ever homebrewing competition. Homebrewers from near and far took the same base wort and put their own personal spin on it to create a unique beer. We judged approximately 90 entries and from those, chose 12 finalists. The winner of the competition will get to brew their recipe with one of our brewers at our pub brewhouse in downtown Kalamazoo.</p> <p>There were eight honorable mentions (in no particular order):</p> <p>The Culmination</p> <p>Hoppy Holiday Ale</p> <p>Last in Line Double IPA</p> <p>Poor Pete's Poison</p> <p>New Moon IPA</p> <p>Pure Michigan #30</p> <p>Brown Dog</p> <p>Chocolate Cherry Cordial</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>And the winners are...</p> <p>4th Place: Ginger Bells</p> <p>3rd Place: Raspberry Punch</p> <p>2nd Place: Black Hops: A Covert Exbeeriment</p> <p>1st Place: Oscar's Folly</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Thanks to everyone who participated in the competition. It was truly incredible to taste so many different beers that all began with the same wort. We look forward to doing this again next year!</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2010-11-08T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News All Stouts' Day Returns to the Eccentric Cafe http://bellsbeer.com/news/9-All%20Stouts%27%20Day%20Returns%20to%20the%20Eccentric%20Cafe <p>On Sunday, November 7<sup>th</sup>, 2010, Bell's Brewery will be devoting all of the taps at the Eccentric Café to a wide variety of our stouts for the entire day. The draft list will include:</p> <ul class="unIndentedList"> <li> Kalamazoo Stout</li> <li> Cherry Stout</li> <li> Special Double Cream Stout</li> <li> Expedition Stout</li> <li> Java Stout</li> <li> Milk Stout</li> <li> Oatmeal Stout</li> <li> Rye Stout</li> <li> Smoked Stout</li> <li> Harry Magill's Spiced Stout</li> <li> Trumpeter's Stout</li> </ul> <p>In addition, there will be a firkin of something fun, as well as several food specials paired specifically to the event. We will also be taking the opportunity to announce the finalists &amp; winner of the Bell's 25<sup>th</sup> Anniversary Homebrew Competition at 3pm.</p> <p>Doors open at noon. We look forward to seeing you there.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2010-11-04T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's Owner Announces Expansion http://bellsbeer.com/news/8-Bell%27s%20Owner%20Announces%20Expansion <p> </p><div> <p>&nbsp;While celebrating 25 years in business, Larry Bell, owner of Bell's Brewery, announced a $52 million investment over the next five years.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;Approximately $17 million will be invested in 2011 to expand the Comstock Township plant, adding 24 new 400-barrel fermenters, a 200-barrel brewhouse, a new employee care area and&nbsp;provide space and equipment for some new specialty fermentations, Bell announced Friday.</p> <p>&nbsp;An additonal $35 million will be spent through 2016 to&nbsp;further develop the Comstock Township facility.</p> <p>&nbsp;This investment hopes to accommodate Bell's Brewery's trend of twenty percent growth annually. This could mean greater revenue, additional supplier and vendor growth and new jobs.</p> <p>"In this business, if you're not growing, you're dying," said Bell.&nbsp;</p> <p>Bell began brewing beer as a lone entrepreneur 25 years ago in a 15-gallon soup kettle.</p> <p>This year, over 150,000 barrels of Bell's brands will be sold, a 20 percent increase over last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;Bell's also remains one of the few craft breweries to remain under original ownership.</p> <p>&nbsp;"The best thing about the beer industry is the people in it," reflected Bell, "To everyone who has touched the brewery - thanks for 25 years and here's to 25 more."</p> <div></div> </div> <p>&nbsp;While celebrating 25 years in business, Larry Bell, owner of Bell's Brewery, announced a $52 million investment over the next five years.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;Approximately $17 million will be invested in 2011 to expand the Comstock Township plant, adding 24 new 400-barrel fermenters, a 200-barrel brewhouse, a new employee care area and&nbsp;provide space and equipment for some new specialty fermentations, Bell announced Friday.</p> <p>&nbsp;An additonal $35 million will be spent through 2016 to&nbsp;further develop the Comstock Township facility.</p> <p>&nbsp;This investment hopes to accommodate Bell's Brewery's trend of twenty percent growth annually. This could mean greater revenue, additional supplier and vendor growth and new jobs.</p> <p>"In this business, if you're not growing, you're dying," said Bell.&nbsp;</p> <p>Bell began brewing beer as a lone entrepreneur 25 years ago in a 15-gallon soup kettle.</p> <p>This year, over 150,000 barrels of Bell's brands will be sold, a 20 percent increase over last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;Bell's also remains one of the few craft breweries to remain under original ownership.</p> <p>&nbsp;"The best thing about the beer industry is the people in it," reflected Bell, "To everyone who has touched the brewery - thanks for 25 years and here's to 25 more."</p> <div></div> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2010-09-10T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Two Hearted Ale Withdrawal - Batches 9663 & 9674 http://bellsbeer.com/news/7-Two%20Hearted%20Ale%20Withdrawal%20-%20Batches%209663%20%26%209674 <p> </p><div> <p>Bell's Brewery, Inc. is announcing the voluntary withdrawal from the market of two specific batches of Two Hearted Ale, 9663 and 9674. Bottled on 4/5/10 and 4/12/10, respectively, these two batches of Two Hearted Ale have become sour and unpalatable. There is no food safety concern: the flaw only affects the flavor of the beer. We have identified &amp; isolated the problem that affected these two bottling runs. No other packaging runs were similarly affected.</p> <p>Our distribution partners are working closely with our own sales staff to remove all of this beer from the market. Consumers who have purchased Two Hearted Ale from batches 9663 or 9674 are encouraged to return them to the retailer for an exchange or, where legal, a refund. The four digit batch number is printed on the back label of the bottles in a rectangular white box.</p> <p>Customers who experience difficulty returning beers or have questions should e-mail us at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:quality@bellsbeer.com">quality@bellsbeer.com</a>. We stand behind all of our beers and will do what we can to resolve the situation on your behalf.</p> <p>We apologize for any inconvenience that this may have caused you. We strive to exceed expectations with our beers, and we are deeply sorry that we came up short in this instance and allowed these batches to slip through our quality control measures. New procedures have already been put into effect to prevent repeat incidents.</p> <p>Sincerely,</p> <p>Bell's Brewery, Inc.</p> <div></div> </div> <p></p> <p>Bell's Brewery, Inc. is announcing the voluntary withdrawal from the market of two specific batches of Two Hearted Ale, 9663 and 9674. Bottled on 4/5/10 and 4/12/10, respectively, these two batches of Two Hearted Ale have become sour and unpalatable. There is no food safety concern: the flaw only affects the flavor of the beer. We have identified &amp; isolated the problem that affected these two bottling runs. No other packaging runs were similarly affected.</p> <p>Our distribution partners are working closely with our own sales staff to remove all of this beer from the market. Consumers who have purchased Two Hearted Ale from batches 9663 or 9674 are encouraged to return them to the retailer for an exchange or, where legal, a refund. The four digit batch number is printed on the back label of the bottles in a rectangular white box.</p> <p>Customers who experience difficulty returning beers or have questions should e-mail us at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:quality@bellsbeer.com">quality@bellsbeer.com</a>. We stand behind all of our beers and will do what we can to resolve the situation on your behalf.</p> <p>We apologize for any inconvenience that this may have caused you. We strive to exceed expectations with our beers, and we are deeply sorry that we came up short in this instance and allowed these batches to slip through our quality control measures. New procedures have already been put into effect to prevent repeat incidents.</p> <p>Sincerely,</p> <p>Bell's Brewery, Inc.</p> <div></div> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2010-06-01T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's beer brands return to Chicago http://bellsbeer.com/news/6-Bell%27s%20beer%20brands%20return%20to%20Chicago <p> </p><div> <p>After a two year absence from Chicagoland, the brands of Bell's Brewery — including favorites such as Oberon Ale, Bell's Amber Ale, Kalamazoo Stout and Bell's Porter — are back.<br><br>The recent announcement of distribution agreements with Central Beverage Company, Schamberger Brothers, and Skokie Valley Beverage Company means that Chicagoans can enjoy these renowned craft beers once again, starting on August 1st.<br><br>"For many craft beer enthusiasts in this city, these brands were their first introduction to full-flavor,&nbsp; thoughtful brewing,” remarked Donna Spagnola, president and owner of Central Beverage Company. “We're extremely excited to be a part of bringing them back to Illinois."<br><br>“I love Chicago and there's no big city I spend more time in,” added Larry Bell, owner and founder of Bell’s Brewery. “I'm thrilled that our beer will be available again in this market and I'm very pleased to be working with such first-rate distributors. It's a true partnership — they know their markets and they know our beers."<br><br>The company hopes to widen its distribution throughout Illinois in the near future.<br><br>While they may not have been a presence in Chicago over the past two years, the Bell's Brewery brands have been earning accolades around the country. Most recently, at the 2008 Brewers Association World Beer Cup in San Diego, where 2,864 beers from 644 breweries and 58 countries were judged by an esteemed panel, Bell's Porter captured a gold medal in the Brown Porter category. At the 2008 Brewers Cup in Indiana, Bell's Double Brown, Bell's Consecrator Doppelbock and Bell's Porter all won gold in their respective categories.<br><br>"We've always believed that if we stay focused on brewing good beer, good things will happen," noted Bell. "The return of these brands to Chicago — where I was born and raised — proves that."<br><br>Bell’s Brewery distributes beer in fifteen states. The company&nbsp; produces a variety of unfiltered, bottle-conditioned beers, ales, porters and stouts. In 2007, sales volume exceeded 90,000 barrels, anincrease of more than 22% from the previous year. Similar growth is expected this year.</p> </div> <p></p> <p>After a two year absence from Chicagoland, the brands of Bell's Brewery — including favorites such as Oberon Ale, Bell's Amber Ale, Kalamazoo Stout and Bell's Porter — are back.<br><br>The recent announcement of distribution agreements with Central Beverage Company, Schamberger Brothers, and Skokie Valley Beverage Company means that Chicagoans can enjoy these renowned craft beers once again, starting on August 1st.<br><br>"For many craft beer enthusiasts in this city, these brands were their first introduction to full-flavor,&nbsp; thoughtful brewing,” remarked Donna Spagnola, president and owner of Central Beverage Company. “We're extremely excited to be a part of bringing them back to Illinois."<br><br>“I love Chicago and there's no big city I spend more time in,” added Larry Bell, owner and founder of Bell’s Brewery. “I'm thrilled that our beer will be available again in this market and I'm very pleased to be working with such first-rate distributors. It's a true partnership — they know their markets and they know our beers."<br><br>The company hopes to widen its distribution throughout Illinois in the near future.<br><br>While they may not have been a presence in Chicago over the past two years, the Bell's Brewery brands have been earning accolades around the country. Most recently, at the 2008 Brewers Association World Beer Cup in San Diego, where 2,864 beers from 644 breweries and 58 countries were judged by an esteemed panel, Bell's Porter captured a gold medal in the Brown Porter category. At the 2008 Brewers Cup in Indiana, Bell's Double Brown, Bell's Consecrator Doppelbock and Bell's Porter all won gold in their respective categories.<br><br>"We've always believed that if we stay focused on brewing good beer, good things will happen," noted Bell. "The return of these brands to Chicago — where I was born and raised — proves that."<br><br>Bell’s Brewery distributes beer in fifteen states. The company&nbsp; produces a variety of unfiltered, bottle-conditioned beers, ales, porters and stouts. In 2007, sales volume exceeded 90,000 barrels, anincrease of more than 22% from the previous year. Similar growth is expected this year.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2008-08-01T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Bell's Sponsors Kalamazoo Outrage Soccer Club http://bellsbeer.com/news/5-Bell%27s%20Sponsors%20Kalamazoo%20Outrage%20Soccer%20Club <p> </p><div> <p>Before David Beckham and Mia Hamm became the uber-stars of soccer, they played on the fields of England and Texas as students and amateur players. Understanding the need to support amateur athletes, Bell's Brewery is a proud sponsor of the newly named Kalamazoo Outrage soccer club. The Kalamazoo Outrage is a part of the United Soccer League (USL) and consists of both a Premier Development League (PDL) and W-League teams. PDL is an Men's Under 23 amateur league for elite players throughout North America and the W-League is the highest level of amateur women's soccer in the US and Canada. "It's an honor to have signed a three year sponsorship with the Kalamazoo Outrage," says Angie Bell, vice president &amp; marketing director of Bell's Brewery. "It's a great pleasure to be a part of this increasingly popular sport." While the Outrage is new to the roster, the USL has been providing opportunities to professional and amateur soccer players since the mid-eighties -- the same time that Bell's sold its first beer. The PDL and W-League have a roster of games throughout the summer and all Outrage home games are played at Mayor's Riverfront Park in Kalamazoo. "I can't wait to see what these teams accomplish their first year," says Bell, "Hard work, tenacity - whether on the field or in the community - you put those two things together and amazing things can happen." For a complete Kalamazoo Outrage schedule, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kalamazoooutrage.com/index.php">www.kalamazoooutrage.com</a>&nbsp;</p> <p><a title="Bells_KalamazooOutrage.pdf" href="/index.php/download_file/-/view/282/">Download PDF</a></p> </div> <p></p> <p>Before David Beckham and Mia Hamm became the uber-stars of soccer, they played on the fields of England and Texas as students and amateur players. Understanding the need to support amateur athletes, Bell's Brewery is a proud sponsor of the newly named Kalamazoo Outrage soccer club. The Kalamazoo Outrage is a part of the United Soccer League (USL) and consists of both a Premier Development League (PDL) and W-League teams. PDL is an Men's Under 23 amateur league for elite players throughout North America and the W-League is the highest level of amateur women's soccer in the US and Canada. "It's an honor to have signed a three year sponsorship with the Kalamazoo Outrage," says Angie Bell, vice president &amp; marketing director of Bell's Brewery. "It's a great pleasure to be a part of this increasingly popular sport." While the Outrage is new to the roster, the USL has been providing opportunities to professional and amateur soccer players since the mid-eighties -- the same time that Bell's sold its first beer. The PDL and W-League have a roster of games throughout the summer and all Outrage home games are played at Mayor's Riverfront Park in Kalamazoo. "I can't wait to see what these teams accomplish their first year," says Bell, "Hard work, tenacity - whether on the field or in the community - you put those two things together and amazing things can happen." For a complete Kalamazoo Outrage schedule, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kalamazoooutrage.com/index.php">www.kalamazoooutrage.com</a>&nbsp;</p> <p><a title="Bells_KalamazooOutrage.pdf" href="/index.php/download_file/-/view/282/">Download PDF</a></p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2008-05-15T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News BELL'S PORTER WINS GOLD AT THE WORLD BEER CUP http://bellsbeer.com/news/4-BELL%27S%20PORTER%20WINS%20GOLD%20AT%20THE%20WORLD%20BEER%20CUP <p> </p><div> <p>Not only is Bell’s Brewery surging in popularity around the country, it continues to earn serious accolades for the flavor and the quality of its beer.<br><br>This time, it’s Bell’s Porter, honored with Gold in the Brown Porter category at the Brewers Association World Beer Cup Gala Awards Ceremony, held in San Diego on April 18th. In 2008, this competition saw 644 breweries from 58 countries vie for honors in 91 categories.&nbsp; The panel, comprised of 129 people from 21 countries, judged more than 2,864 beers.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br><br>“Like many fans of our beer, I’ve always had a soft spot in my&nbsp;heart for our Porter,” said Larry Bell, president and founder of Bell’s Brewery. “This recognition, on an international stage, confirms that this is a very special beer.”<br><br>A Silver in the Brown Porter category went to Cutthroat Porter from the Odell Brewing Company&nbsp;of Fort Collins, CO, while a Bronze went to St. Charles Porter from Blackstone Brewery in Nashville, TN.&nbsp;<br><br>&nbsp;“We’ve never been a brewery that chases after every medal out there,” remarked Bell. “But winning at the World Beer Cup, where there are so many entries from both&nbsp;<br>international breweries and the finest craft brewers in the United States, confirms that we’re doing things right.”<br><br>The award adds to the success that Bell’s is currently enjoying in the marketplace. In 2007, sales volume crested 90,000 barrels —&nbsp;an increase of more than 22% from 2006 —&nbsp;and distribution grew to 15 states, including Florida.&nbsp;<br><br>“This World Beer Cup Gold shows that even with our growth, the focus has remained on making beer that is full of character and consistent in quality,” noted Larry Bell. “We’ve long believed that if we do everything well in the brewery, sales will follow.”<br><br>To find out more about the 2008 World Beer Cup, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.worldbeercup.org/">www.WorldBeerCup.org</a>.&nbsp;<br><br>For more information about Bell’s Brewery and its brands, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bellsbeer.com">www.bellsbeer.com</a>.</p> </div> <p></p> <p>Not only is Bell’s Brewery surging in popularity around the country, it continues to earn serious accolades for the flavor and the quality of its beer.<br><br>This time, it’s Bell’s Porter, honored with Gold in the Brown Porter category at the Brewers Association World Beer Cup Gala Awards Ceremony, held in San Diego on April 18th. In 2008, this competition saw 644 breweries from 58 countries vie for honors in 91 categories.&nbsp; The panel, comprised of 129 people from 21 countries, judged more than 2,864 beers.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br><br>“Like many fans of our beer, I’ve always had a soft spot in my&nbsp;heart for our Porter,” said Larry Bell, president and founder of Bell’s Brewery. “This recognition, on an international stage, confirms that this is a very special beer.”<br><br>A Silver in the Brown Porter category went to Cutthroat Porter from the Odell Brewing Company&nbsp;of Fort Collins, CO, while a Bronze went to St. Charles Porter from Blackstone Brewery in Nashville, TN.&nbsp;<br><br>&nbsp;“We’ve never been a brewery that chases after every medal out there,” remarked Bell. “But winning at the World Beer Cup, where there are so many entries from both&nbsp;<br>international breweries and the finest craft brewers in the United States, confirms that we’re doing things right.”<br><br>The award adds to the success that Bell’s is currently enjoying in the marketplace. In 2007, sales volume crested 90,000 barrels —&nbsp;an increase of more than 22% from 2006 —&nbsp;and distribution grew to 15 states, including Florida.&nbsp;<br><br>“This World Beer Cup Gold shows that even with our growth, the focus has remained on making beer that is full of character and consistent in quality,” noted Larry Bell. “We’ve long believed that if we do everything well in the brewery, sales will follow.”<br><br>To find out more about the 2008 World Beer Cup, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.worldbeercup.org/">www.WorldBeerCup.org</a>.&nbsp;<br><br>For more information about Bell’s Brewery and its brands, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bellsbeer.com">www.bellsbeer.com</a>.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2008-04-28T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Demand drive $5M upgrade at brewery http://bellsbeer.com/news/3-Demand%20drive%20%245M%20upgrade%20at%20brewery <p> </p><div> <p>COMSTOCK — Citing "an unquenchable thirst for Bell's," officials at Bell's Brewery Inc. announced plans Wednesday for a $5 million upgrade and expansion at its Comstock operation.<br><br>Bell's is expected to produce 90,000 barrels of beer this year, up from 57,000 in 2005, and the Comstock expansion increases production capacity to 140,000 barrels a year.<br><br>Nine acres of land for future expansions also have been purchased.<br><br>"Rather than make small improvements, we're taking a big step," said Larry Bell, the president of the company, formed in 1983. "The last few years have been terrific for us."<br><br>The investment includes six 200-barrel fermenters, one 400-barrel fermenter, a 10,000-spuare-foot warehouse with an energy-efficient "green" roof, a new keg line that can fill 280 kegs per hour and the purchase of 13,000 new kegs.<br><br>The project is expected to be completed in February, according to Bell's Vice President.<br><br>The expansion in Comstock comes on the heels of upgrades at Bell's downtown Kalamazoo location. Improvements at the Kalamazoo facility included the opening of a general store featuring Bell's merchandise.<br><br>Larry Bell said the Comstock expansion and land purchase will ensure capacity for growth.<br><br>"We wouldn't be making this kind of capital investment if we weren't confident about the appeal of our beer and the abilities of our team," he said.</p> </div> <p></p> <p>COMSTOCK — Citing "an unquenchable thirst for Bell's," officials at Bell's Brewery Inc. announced plans Wednesday for a $5 million upgrade and expansion at its Comstock operation.<br><br>Bell's is expected to produce 90,000 barrels of beer this year, up from 57,000 in 2005, and the Comstock expansion increases production capacity to 140,000 barrels a year.<br><br>Nine acres of land for future expansions also have been purchased.<br><br>"Rather than make small improvements, we're taking a big step," said Larry Bell, the president of the company, formed in 1983. "The last few years have been terrific for us."<br><br>The investment includes six 200-barrel fermenters, one 400-barrel fermenter, a 10,000-spuare-foot warehouse with an energy-efficient "green" roof, a new keg line that can fill 280 kegs per hour and the purchase of 13,000 new kegs.<br><br>The project is expected to be completed in February, according to Bell's Vice President.<br><br>The expansion in Comstock comes on the heels of upgrades at Bell's downtown Kalamazoo location. Improvements at the Kalamazoo facility included the opening of a general store featuring Bell's merchandise.<br><br>Larry Bell said the Comstock expansion and land purchase will ensure capacity for growth.<br><br>"We wouldn't be making this kind of capital investment if we weren't confident about the appeal of our beer and the abilities of our team," he said.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 2007-11-08T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News K'zoo: It has its own brew http://bellsbeer.com/news/2-K%27zoo%3A%20It%20has%20its%20own%20brew <p> </p><div> <p>"Industrial strength," that's what Larry Bell called the king of beer you usually buy in a store.<br><br>So the Kalamazoo man decided o brew his own beer without the pasteurizing and filtering that bring a brew to "an inch of its life."<br><br>Bell found he could make good beer with a good head without all the processes that sap beer and ale of their body and flavor.<br><br>His beer was so well-liked, and his operation become so large, that he decided to make it pay.<br><br>"I OUTGREW a home-brewing hobby," Bell said.<br><br>Now, after almost five years in the business, the only trouble Bell has is making enough beer.<br><br>Bell managed to convince a local bank to loan him $7,000 to start his business, but it wasn't easy.<br><br>"Trying to convince a bank to loan you money to start a brewery? Most of 'em wouldn't even talk to me."<br><br>But they're talking to him now. The brewery, which sells much of its beer and ale in southeastern Michigan., including Troy. Ann Arbor, Southfield and Birmingham, is negotiating for a $30,000 loan to increase its capacity and sell in northern Indiana and soutern Wisconsin as well as other parts of Michigan.<br><br>THE OPERATION is still small, using 20-year-old school soup cookers and beer cartons that advertise more familiar brands.<br><br>Still, customers are loyal to the brews, which come in a variety of styles, from dark ale to pale ber.<br><br>"I love it," said Dan Miller, a Dearborn Heights native who lives in Kalamazoo and no longer drinks his better-known nameake. " I buy it by the gallon, so it's not much more expensive than a regular 12-pack."<br><br>But for some, there's the rub. The beer retails for from $10 or more for a six-pack. Bell said the price is relative when it comes to enjoying his beer.<br><br>"IF YOU"RE eating some spicy food, you really want a beer that will stand up to it, not something you drink like water," Bell said.<br><br>The brewery has made 11 different types of beer or ale since its opening. Some, such as Bell's Best Brown Ale, are standbys, while others, like Two Hearted Ale have had swings in populatrity.<br><br>"I don't know," Bell said with a laugh. "What's our flavor of the month?"<br><br>BELL'S BREWS also have distinctive labels, most often made from drawings of local "characters."<br><br>Bell said his brewing process and aging time vary depending on the type of brew. He also does some experimental brewing for a local spice company.</p> </div> <p></p> <p>"Industrial strength," that's what Larry Bell called the king of beer you usually buy in a store.<br><br>So the Kalamazoo man decided o brew his own beer without the pasteurizing and filtering that bring a brew to "an inch of its life."<br><br>Bell found he could make good beer with a good head without all the processes that sap beer and ale of their body and flavor.<br><br>His beer was so well-liked, and his operation become so large, that he decided to make it pay.<br><br>"I OUTGREW a home-brewing hobby," Bell said.<br><br>Now, after almost five years in the business, the only trouble Bell has is making enough beer.<br><br>Bell managed to convince a local bank to loan him $7,000 to start his business, but it wasn't easy.<br><br>"Trying to convince a bank to loan you money to start a brewery? Most of 'em wouldn't even talk to me."<br><br>But they're talking to him now. The brewery, which sells much of its beer and ale in southeastern Michigan., including Troy. Ann Arbor, Southfield and Birmingham, is negotiating for a $30,000 loan to increase its capacity and sell in northern Indiana and soutern Wisconsin as well as other parts of Michigan.<br><br>THE OPERATION is still small, using 20-year-old school soup cookers and beer cartons that advertise more familiar brands.<br><br>Still, customers are loyal to the brews, which come in a variety of styles, from dark ale to pale ber.<br><br>"I love it," said Dan Miller, a Dearborn Heights native who lives in Kalamazoo and no longer drinks his better-known nameake. " I buy it by the gallon, so it's not much more expensive than a regular 12-pack."<br><br>But for some, there's the rub. The beer retails for from $10 or more for a six-pack. Bell said the price is relative when it comes to enjoying his beer.<br><br>"IF YOU"RE eating some spicy food, you really want a beer that will stand up to it, not something you drink like water," Bell said.<br><br>The brewery has made 11 different types of beer or ale since its opening. Some, such as Bell's Best Brown Ale, are standbys, while others, like Two Hearted Ale have had swings in populatrity.<br><br>"I don't know," Bell said with a laugh. "What's our flavor of the month?"<br><br>BELL'S BREWS also have distinctive labels, most often made from drawings of local "characters."<br><br>Bell said his brewing process and aging time vary depending on the type of brew. He also does some experimental brewing for a local spice company.</p> headlines@bellsbeer.com 1990-03-26T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Brewing http://bellsbeer.com/news/1-Brewing <p> </p><div> <p>His fledgling Kalamazoo Brewing Co. Inc. — one of the smallest beer-making concerns in the country — received state approval last week to sell Bell's Beer to retail customers.<br><br>A week earlier his pale ale got thumbs up from Michigan's Department of Public Health, leaving him free to tap into the tavern trade in Kalamazoo.<br><br>However, while some local bar owners gushed at the prospect of serving the home-town brew when Bell first floated the idea, nary a one has ordered a half-barrel of the first commercial beer produced in Kalamazoo since prohibition.<br><br>"It's a novel product." said the blond, bespactacled Bell. "But why should retailers carry it instead of Budweiser or Stroh's, which everybody knows?"<br><br>After struggling for three years to get his business under way, the fight isn't over, he said.<br><br>"You still have to go out and sell (the beer). You have to prove the product."<br><br>The 27-year-old Park Forest, Ill., native gave a tour of his diminutive company's quarters, 315 E. Kalamazoo, last week and talked about his venture with the self-absorption that marks many budding entrepreneurs.<br><br>The cinder block building, which formerly housed Sentry Hardware, is painted yellow inside and out. A walk-in cooler dominates on room, 15-gallon barrels are stacked in the corner of another and a third houses a handful of 42 gallon plastic cans were the grew is fermented.<br><br>Only the small office is decorated. Old and new beer bottles from places as diverse as Kalamazoo and Morocco line a windowsill. Beer-related posters and illustrations clutter one wall.<br><br>Bell makes it clear he isn't out to compete with the kings of American brewing. And they probably aren't all that worried about the Kalamazoo Brewing Co. either.<br><br>The firm will produce 520 31-gallon barrels of beer its first year, Bell said. That compares with industry leader Anheuser-Bucsh's annual output of 65 million barrels.<br><br>Bell says his is a "micro brewery" fermenting a specialty beer.<br><br>"We're wholesaling it for the same price as Molson Golden in the keg," he said. " I want to compete with that kind of beer."<br><br>The wholesale price of a keg of Molson Golden, a Candian brew, is about $46.<br><br>With his recently received Michigan Liquor Control Commission specialty wholesale license, Bell also plans to sell to walk-in customers.<br><br>Beer in a cubitainer — or plastic four-liter container with its own spigot that can be refilled at the brewery — will cost $8, he said. The container holds the equivalent of about 10 2/3 12-ounce beers.<br><br>Retail customers will pay $56 for a keg of the beer.<br><br>Kalamazoo Brewing is one of only four breweries in the state, according to the Michigan Liquor Control Commission. Two of the others are national brands and the third id local. Stroh Brewery Co. is based in Detroit, but recently discontinued beer production at its plant there. The gient G. Heileman Brewing Co. also brews beer in Michigan. Geyer Bros. Brewing Co of Frankenmuth is a small local brewery.<br><br>There are only 65 brewing companies in America, according to the United States Brewers Association in Washingtion, D.C. That is up from an all-time low of 41 in 1979.<br><br>West Germany, the world's leading beer producer, has more than 1,000 breweries, although its population is less than half of the U.S.<br><br>Bell, who came to the area as a Kalamazoo College student, cooked up his first batch of beer in 1979 as a money-saving rather than money-making effort.<br><br>He worked at Sarkozy Bakery, on the downtown Kalamazoo Mall, at the time and shared a house on Wheaton Avenue with three friends.<br><br><a title="1_18_Brewing_KG_1985.pdf" href="/index.php/download_file/-/view/281/">Download pdf to read complete article.</a></p> <div></div> </div> <p></p> <p>His fledgling Kalamazoo Brewing Co. Inc. — one of the smallest beer-making concerns in the country — received state approval last week to sell Bell's Beer to retail customers.<br><br>A week earlier his pale ale got thumbs up from Michigan's Department of Public Health, leaving him free to tap into the tavern trade in Kalamazoo.<br><br>However, while some local bar owners gushed at the prospect of serving the home-town brew when Bell first floated the idea, nary a one has ordered a half-barrel of the first commercial beer produced in Kalamazoo since prohibition.<br><br>"It's a novel product." said the blond, bespactacled Bell. "But why should retailers carry it instead of Budweiser or Stroh's, which everybody knows?"<br><br>After struggling for three years to get his business under way, the fight isn't over, he said.<br><br>"You still have to go out and sell (the beer). You have to prove the product."<br><br>The 27-year-old Park Forest, Ill., native gave a tour of his diminutive company's quarters, 315 E. Kalamazoo, last week and talked about his venture with the self-absorption that marks many budding entrepreneurs.<br><br>The cinder block building, which formerly housed Sentry Hardware, is painted yellow inside and out. A walk-in cooler dominates on room, 15-gallon barrels are stacked in the corner of another and a third houses a handful of 42 gallon plastic cans were the grew is fermented.<br><br>Only the small office is decorated. Old and new beer bottles from places as diverse as Kalamazoo and Morocco line a windowsill. Beer-related posters and illustrations clutter one wall.<br><br>Bell makes it clear he isn't out to compete with the kings of American brewing. And they probably aren't all that worried about the Kalamazoo Brewing Co. either.<br><br>The firm will produce 520 31-gallon barrels of beer its first year, Bell said. That compares with industry leader Anheuser-Bucsh's annual output of 65 million barrels.<br><br>Bell says his is a "micro brewery" fermenting a specialty beer.<br><br>"We're wholesaling it for the same price as Molson Golden in the keg," he said. " I want to compete with that kind of beer."<br><br>The wholesale price of a keg of Molson Golden, a Candian brew, is about $46.<br><br>With his recently received Michigan Liquor Control Commission specialty wholesale license, Bell also plans to sell to walk-in customers.<br><br>Beer in a cubitainer — or plastic four-liter container with its own spigot that can be refilled at the brewery — will cost $8, he said. The container holds the equivalent of about 10 2/3 12-ounce beers.<br><br>Retail customers will pay $56 for a keg of the beer.<br><br>Kalamazoo Brewing is one of only four breweries in the state, according to the Michigan Liquor Control Commission. Two of the others are national brands and the third id local. Stroh Brewery Co. is based in Detroit, but recently discontinued beer production at its plant there. The gient G. Heileman Brewing Co. also brews beer in Michigan. Geyer Bros. Brewing Co of Frankenmuth is a small local brewery.<br><br>There are only 65 brewing companies in America, according to the United States Brewers Association in Washingtion, D.C. That is up from an all-time low of 41 in 1979.<br><br>West Germany, the world's leading beer producer, has more than 1,000 breweries, although its population is less than half of the U.S.<br><br>Bell, who came to the area as a Kalamazoo College student, cooked up his first batch of beer in 1979 as a money-saving rather than money-making effort.<br><br>He worked at Sarkozy Bakery, on the downtown Kalamazoo Mall, at the time and shared a house on Wheaton Avenue with three friends.<br><br><a title="1_18_Brewing_KG_1985.pdf" href="/index.php/download_file/-/view/281/">Download pdf to read complete article.</a></p> <div></div> headlines@bellsbeer.com 1985-09-22T00:12:00-05:00 Bell's Brewery News Search Use the text input below to search bellsbeer.com query http://bellsbeer.com/site-search/