[10/12 Update: According to George at Westy’s Distributors, Bell’s Christmas Ale is expected to ship right at the end of October]
(Kalamazoo, MI) – It appears as though Bell’s may be coming out with a new beer and returning with an old favorite later this year. With good news comes bad, however, as STL Hops reported last month that Java Stout and Sparking Ale will be retired.
Bell’s Christmas Ale will be a Scotch Ale, “brewed with 100% Michigan barley and a blend of Pacific Northwest and Michigan hops.” This looks like Bell’s first venture into the style in a long time. Hell Hath No Fury is a Belgian Strong Ale that made its debut in 2004. STL Hops notes that the St. Louis area will be getting it so watch out for it in your local area if you get Bell’s beers.
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Actually we’re getting ready to package Java Stout next week…not going anywhere.
Hey Colt! I’m assuming that you work at the brewery? Always glad to see comments like this.
From STL Hops’ original post: “According to Bell’s rep Jim O’Connor both beers are being retired due to raw material issues.”
So it does appear as though there is a miscommunication somewhere if Java isn’t going away.
Java Stout can’t go away. I’d die.
According to Production Manager John Mallet… “…we do not have plans to bottle the Java this fall. We made some last season and want to try out some new stuff this fall and winter. We will make
some Java for draft but do not have plans to bottle it.”
Good stuff, Gerald. Thanks for the update.
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Just got a few cases in yesterday (St. Andrew’s Hall / Detroit) tasty…tasty…tasty!
Missed this last year and just picked up some bottles, looking forward to finally trying it.
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