(Washington, D.C.) – A D.C.-based production brewery gets a label approval…for the first time ever?

The ATU/ATTD/ATF/TTB has been around for several decades though I’m guessing (could be wrong) that the current process of approving labels wasn’t around back in 1956, the last year in which a production brewery was operating in Washington D.C.

This week marks a major moment for craft beer in the city as DC Brau got label approval for The Public Pale Ale cans. The brewery is currently working on two more labels, The Citizen Belgian Pale Ale and Corruption IPA, according to CraftCans.com. They are asking for your help (through a contest) this weekend in finishing those labels.

As noted in the press release below, DC Brau has signed with Hop and Wine Beverage in Washington D.C. to distribute cans beginning Q1 of next year.

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – DC Brau Brewing Company, the District’s first production brewery since 1956, today announced the signing of a distribution deal with Hop& Wine Beverage, taking a major step towards making locally brewed beer a reality in the Metro area.

“DC Brau is proud to be aligned with Hop & Wine Beverage in Washington, DC,” says Brandon Skall, co-founder of DC Brau. “We have watched this company grow over the years and we can’t wait to be a part of that growth moving forward.”

DC Brau is expected to be available in bars, shops, and restaurants around the District during the first quarter of 2011. Starting with distribution of their 3 flagship beers, Public Ale (Pale Ale), Corruption Ale (IPA), and the Citizen (Belgian style Ale), DC Brau will follow up with a seasonal brew in time for Summer 2011, with the hopes of expanding distribution to Maryland and Virginia as soon as the market is ready.

“We are delighted and excited to have a DC brewery once again,” says Martin Wetten of Hop & Wine Beverage. “Ultimately, it is Hop & Wine’s honor to be representing DC Brau in this new stage in the city’s history.”

The partnership between DC BRAU Brewing Company and Hop & Wine beverage ensures beer lovers in the DC area can soon look forward to tipping back a mug of beer knowing that they are supporting the work of DC locals who’ve created a DC brew with a distinct DC flavor.

DC Brau Brewing Company, founded in 2009, is located in North East Washington, D.C. Co-founders Brandon Skall and Jeff Hancock are DC locals with a passion for brewing, complimented by years of experience in beverage distribution. DC Brau’s signature brews include, Public Ale (Pale Ale), Corruption Ale (IPA), and The Citizen (Belgian style Ale), with seasonal and special brews to follow. For more information on DC Brau, visit http://www.dcbrau.com.