A New Beer From Nectar Ales

Black Xantus Is First New Beer From Nectar In Years

Paso Robles, CA, August 13, 2009 – Firestone Walker Brewing Company, brewers of Nectar Ales, announced their first ever specialty, limited release Nectar beer . Black Xantus, a bourbon barrel aged Imperial Stout infused with coffee, will be available in October of this year and marks the first new beer from Nectar in years.

The name “Black Xantus” comes from a rare hummingbird species found in Mexico. It pays homage to the hummingbird icon that has signified Nectar Ales for over 20 year.

“Holy hummingbirds, this beer is amazing,” said Brewmaster Matthew Brynildson. “We are so excited to be able to brew a beer of this caliber and with so much character,” he added.

Black Xantus will definitely be an “odd bird” with chocolate, espresso, bourbon aromas and flavors and over 10% alcohol by volume, a slight departure from the session beers that Nectar has been known for. Local Paso Robles area coffee roaster, Jobella, was sourced to provide the organic, fair-trade coffee infused into this special brew.

Black Xantus will be available beginning October 1 in 22 ounce bottles in select markets where Nectar Ales are currently sold. Only 500 cases of this unique brew will be produced. Bottles are expected to retail for around $15 each.

First brewed in 1987 in Arcata, California, Nectar Ales is one of the pioneers of the craft beer movement in the U.S. First brewed by Humboldt Brewing Company, Nectar Ales were brewed under contract by Firestone until the brand was purchased in 2004 by Firestone Walker Brewing Company. Nectar Ales was named “Mid-Size Brewing Company of The Year” at the 2003 Great American Beer Festival.