(Athens, GA) – Terrapin Beer Company‘s Spike Buckowski traveled to Europe this past winter to collaborate with BFM.

(Photo Credit: Terrapin Beer Co. on Flickr)

“Gebraut nach dem Deutschen Reinheitsgebot”

Southern Brew News reported in its April/May edition…

Terrapin brewer, Spike Buckowski and Dustin Watts, were excited to be in Jura, Switzerland, late last February for a collaborative brew with Jerome Rebetez of Brasseries des Franches-Montagnes (BFM). The intriguing rye barleywine, destined to be aged in rum barrels, will come through BFM’s distribution for a limited release in the states. This strong ale with 20% rye created a challenging mash during an almost ten hour brew day. Buckowski states, Brewing at BFM was an extra special experience. For one, starting the brew from an iPhone is just ridiculous, but cheese fondue for lunch in the brewery…come on!”

The B. United International site indicates that it was supposed to be shipped in 11.2 oz. bottles and kegs in late spring but with label approval just coming through (keg only so far, see below), that is obviously going to be delayed a bit. The beer will eventually be released later this summer.

Here are some photos from the trip to Switzerland.