(Chico, CA) – Some updates on the Sierra Nevada Brewing front…
I was able to get some details from Sierra Nevada’s Bill Manley…
* The brewery is starting out 2011 with Torpedo IPA draft in a few test markets. Depending on its reception, they will expand it from there. If on-premise sales can mimic anything close to its very successful off-premise sales, I would expect it to expand (brewing schedule permitting).
* Glissade Golden Bock and Hoptimum Double IPA both shipped out early this week and should begin hitting shelves very soon. Celebration Ale seems to be clearing out of the market earlier than expected. Sierra Nevada brewed more than they ever have before and it seems to be selling faster than ever, according to Manley.
* Bigfoot begins shipping on the 17th of January and will filter into the marketplace shortly thereafter.
* Sierra Nevada grew over 9% in 2010, including growth in core brands like Pale Ale, Seasonals and Torpedo. Manley estimates that the brewery was upwards of 780,000 Bbls for the year (not an official number).
* A new beer recently on tap at the brewery was so popular that it has already sold out in less than two weeks. Some kegs of Sierra Nevada Peach Pit were also shipped out of Chico. It will be known as Tea Ale wherever else it appears on tap. Description: “Made in collaboration with fellow brew masters at Republic of Tea, Peach Pit ale is a truly unique beer. It is a light rosy-gold color and has a satiny malt background which works to display rich flavors and aromas of bright spices and fruit from the use of whole-leaf Ginger Peach tea in the brew. The natural sweetness of the malt and peach is balanced by a light dry spiciness from the ginger and black tea.” Founder, Ken Grossman’s son, Brian, who also works at the brewery, produced this beer with Republic of Tea.
Veru interesting take from Manley on Torpedo IPA. This beer has been in hugh demand on tap since it was in its development stages. And I’m sorry, on-premise sales is NOT what Sierra is worried about. They’re worried about what the demand for draught Torpedo will do to their existing Pale Ale installations (in all 50 States baby!).
Both Glissade and Hoptimum are much welcomed – with open arms and an open mouth.
And Bigfoot – one of the very, very few beers in the market that actually will age.
Been looking forward to Glissade for months now! Tasty stuff, will be buying a 12-pack once it makes its way to Vermont.