Widmer + Redhook = Craft Brewer’s Alliance

Earlier this week it was announced that Redhook Ale Brewery, Inc. and Widmer Brothers Brewing Co. would be combining to create the Craft Brewer’s Alliance. Anheiser-Busch Cos. owned a minority stake in both companies before the deal and will also have a minority stake in the combined company. Both brands will remain separate, so don’t worry, that same mediocre beer will still be available, but now even more so.

Can’t say this really interests me all that much. Red Hook has disappointed since they stopped making their Double Black Stout with Starbucks. Their Longhammer is a fair IPA. As for Widmer, only thing I can say is Wes and I mooched free Drop Tops and Snow Plows in near freezing weather for a few hours before a Ducks-Cal game at a radio sponsored tailgate a couple years back. Free is good, right?

So while I’m not crazy about either of these breweries, greater availability of real beers as opposed to macros is a good thing. I’ll just leave it at that and go back to dreaming of a Stone and Rogue partnership. Feel free to share your thoughts on Widmer and Redhook