Tapster Expands to Lexington, Kentucky with Local Husband-and-Wife Team

Local Franchisees Introduce Self-Pour Bar and Tasting Room to Bourbon Country

LEXINGTON, Ky., Sept. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Tapster, the premier self-pour tasting room franchise, is headed to Kentucky with the signing of a new franchise agreement for development in Lexington. Led by locals Dr. David Swedler and his wife, Amanda, the expansion brings the innovative Tapster concept to the heart of Bourbon Country. Located at 401 West Main Street, Unit 101, across the street from Rupp Arena in The Square, Tapster Lexington will offer residents a unique and interactive drinking experience to complement the city's rich heritage of spirits.

Meet the Local Entrepreneurs: David and Amanda Swedler

The couple is poised to contribute a new way for the community to experience the Bluegrass State's booming craft beer scene, new distilleries, wine culture, vibrant nightlife, and deep-rooted love of bourbon. David, an Akron, Ohio native, is a bariatric surgeon at CHI St. Joseph's Health in Lexington, while Amanda, who hails from Seattle, has a background working in the emergency room and as a bartender. Now proud Lexington residents, their combined expertise and passion for hospitality promise to make Tapster a standout community hub.

"For years, we have been looking for a great opportunity to open this type of business, and we believe this is it. We think Tapster will have an immediate impact on our new hometown," said David. "Lexington is a really fun 'going out' town, but we've noticed that every bar is packed to the point where it can be a long wait just to get a drink. We're hoping to fill that gap. With Tapster's self-pour concept, guests serve themselves as they please, eliminating long lines and wait times. People will have more time to spend with their friends, and to make new ones."

The Swedlers' decision to bring Tapster to Lexington was fueled by their professional ambition and personal connection to their new hometown. Their immersion in Lexington's vibrant social scene, characterized by a dynamic nightlife and a community thirsting for new experiences, highlighted a significant business opportunity. They recognized the city's blend of Southern charm and contagious energy, coupled with crowded bars and a strong demand for unique social venues, would make Lexington an ideal market for Tapster.

Realizing this potential, the Swedlers reached out to Tapster Founder & CEO, Roman Maliszewski, to turn their vision into reality. They knew the combination of Tapster's innovative self-pour beverages and community-first atmosphere would be the perfect solution for Lexington's diverse population, offering guests the freedom to explore and enjoy a wide range of drinks at their own pace without the usual wait.

Tapster and Lexington, the Perfect Match

"David and Amanda epitomize the true spirit of camaraderie that defines Tapster," said Maliszewski. "Previous industry experience isn't required to become a Tapster franchisee. Rather, we're focused on growing with entrepreneurs like David and Amanda who are all in. They need to be passionate about their community and lifting others up."

Lexington's growing population of young professionals, increasing tourism, proximity to the University of Kentucky and the new convention center, and strong nightlife scene, make it a prime location for Tapster's self-serve bar concept and curated beverage selection. Embracing Kentucky's status as the Bourbon Capital of the World, Tapster Lexington will feature several taps dedicated to self-pour bourbon tasting, allowing guests to enjoy 1- or 2-ounce servings, alongside a mostly locally curated selection of craft beers, wines, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages.

The new Tapster location aims to become a cornerstone of the Lexington community. The Swedlers plan to host a variety of engaging activities throughout the week including paint nights, game nights, trivia, karaoke, and more – establishing Tapster as more than just a bar, but a vibrant social destination for locals and tourists alike.

Maliszewski added, "Everything lines up for Lexington to be a fantastic opportunity for our expansion. We're confident the Swedlers will be successful in making Tapster an inviting experience for all."

This Lexington development is a testament to Tapster's national franchise expansion strategy, targeting prime markets across the country. The self-pour concept offers franchisees a simplified bar franchise model with a proven track record of success. Tapster's innovative approach streamlines operations and eliminates the burden of complex staffing, food service requirements, and inventory frustrations. The hot, emerging franchise brand also caters to the growing consumer desire for customization and control.

To learn more about the Tapster franchise opportunity, visit https://tapsterfranchise.com.

About Tapster:

Tapster is a pioneering force, revolutionizing the social drinking experience. The innovative, self-pour bar concept offers 40-plus taps with a wide variety of beer, craft cocktails, wine, cider, hard seltzer, kombucha, cold brew coffee, and craft sodas. Guests sample a wide variety, at their own pace, and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere. Founded on core values surrounding environment, empowerment, and education, Tapster opened its first tasting room in 2017 and has five locations across the United States. With a proven business model focused on simplicity, profitability, and community engagement, Tapster offers owner-operator franchisees the opportunity to be part of a dynamic brand that is poised to reshape the way people experience and enjoy their favorite brews and cocktails. For more information, visit https://tapstertastingroom.com/ or https://tapsterfranchise.com.



Genesee Brewery Introduces First Ever "Sum-all" Seasonal Beer: Black Cherry Vanilla Kellerbier!

Inspired by the Locals Hot Summer Days and Chilly Fall Nights, Genesee Invents New Season with Perfect Beer to Match

ROCHESTER, N.Y., Aug. 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Genesee Brewery recently announced that it has invented a new season, a New Yorker's perfect season, sum-all. Sum-all is the season between August and October where New Yorkers beg for sweater weather while savoring the last days of summer. And in true Genesee fashion, brewery officials announced the first official sum-all beer: Genesee Black Cherry Vanilla Kellerbier! Black Cherry Vanilla Kellerbier will be available later this week in 12-packs of 12-ounce cans and on draft at select locations.

"Just when you thought summer couldn't get any hotter, Genesee is throwing on the flannel in August and kicking off sum-all with zero regrets. Our Black Cherry Vanilla Kellerbier bridges the seasons perfectly, that's why we've declared it our first ever sum-all beer," said Tiffany Benning, brand manager for Genesee. "It showcases the tart sweetness of black cherry and a hint of smooth vanilla, all balanced in a crisp, unfiltered kellerbier that's refreshing enough to drink in the heat." 

Additionally, Genny fans can find limited-edition Black Cherry Vanilla Kellerbier sum-all merchandise at the Genesee Brew House in Rochester.

It's Officially Sum-all Starting August 1

Genesee is leaning into its tradition of releasing seasonal beers before you can even flip your calendar by crafting the new, official sum-all season.

"Sum-all is all about celebrating the best of both seasons and embracing the juxtaposition this time of year offers. Fall beer in August? Makes sense to Genesee! Flannel swim trunks? You got it. Maple hot dogs? Well, you decide… Genesee is all about giving the people what they want," said Benning. "And while we don't control the weather or the thermostat, Genesee can offer liquid relief, no matter the season!" 

Follow Genesee on social media @GeneseeBrewery and share your sum-all moments with #GennySumAll to be part of redefining seasonal sips.

Strong 1st Half Sets Paulaner USA Up for a Robust Oktoberfest Season in 2024

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y., July 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Paulaner USA, the importer of the iconic Paulaner and Hacker Pschorr brands, is reporting strong first half results and anticipates a record breaking 2024 Oktoberfest season.

Paced by strong chain store commitments and accelerating independent channel distribution gains, the importer reported 1st half depletion results of +16.0% for the Paulaner Brand Family.

"Our spring resets in both chain grocery and big box retailers were instrumental in this result. What is particularly noteworthy however were our distribution gains in both chains and independent retailers which were up 7% for the brand family," stated Steve Hauser, President and CEO of Paulaner USA.

Consumer pull through as measured by IRI indicates that PUSA's retail distribution progress bodes well for the Paulaner Family moving forward. "Our IRI totals are keeping pace with our depletion and distribution gains at +9.4% through June," continued Hause. "We now rank among the Top 10 European imports, and we posted the fastest growth rate among that group during the first 6 months of 2024."

With Oktoberfest season already beginning at retail, the importer anticipates strong demand for its Paulaner Brand family, which is the leading seller of beer at the world-famous Munich Oktoberfest. "We already have a record number of orders and are almost sold out on our most popular sku's of this year's Oktoberfest products. While we hope to satisfy all our distributors and retailers demands, we certainly are pleased with our progress," concluded Hauser.

More information about can be found at www.paulanerusa.com or follow us on:

Paulaner USA Instagram: @Paulanerusa https://www.instagram.com/paulanerusa/

Paulaner USA Facebook: @Paulanerusa www.facebook.com/paulanerusa

About Paulaner USA

Paulaner USA is headquartered in White Plains, New York, and imports Paulaner, Hacker-Pschorr, Tsingtao and Fuller's. More information can be found at http://paulanerusa.com.

About Paulaner

The Paulaner Brewery is one of the largest breweries in Munich, Bavaria in Germany and is part of the Paulaner Brewery Group. The Paulaner Brewery Group unites the brands Paulaner, Hacker-Pschorr, Auer Bräu, Hopf and Thurn and Taxis. Since 1634, Paulaner has represented the finest brewing tradition for top quality crafted beer specialties in Germany and world-wide. Founded (and still being brewed) in Munich, Paulaner and Hacker-Pschorr are two of the six brands allowed to be served at the world-famous Oktoberfest.

Yakima Chief Hops Introduces Groundbreaking High Oil Hop Extract to Intensify Aroma Profile of Beer

YAKIMA, Wash., July 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Yakima Chief Hops (YCH), a grower-owned global hop supplier, proudly announces the launch of HyperBoost™! Previously known as YCH 701 Trial, HyperBoost™ is the latest innovation to come out of YCH's Research and Development Program. Designed to easily pour in the fermenter as a dry-hop addition, HyperBoost™ excels at amplifying hop aroma and increasing final beer yield. It can be used anywhere pellets are normally used, including cold-side applications.

Technical Marketing Manager Tessa Schilaty also runs FWD, a new program by YCH and Yakima Chief Ranches (YCR) that engages brewery partners in trialing innovative products. The inaugural cohort of 68 breweries located across 21 different countries received HyperBoost™ as their first trial product. "It's been thoroughly battle-tested by our brewing partners. The positive feedback confirms that we have achieved something exceptional," says Schilaty of her direct work with brewers trialing HyperBoost™ in different applications. She adds, "HyperBoost™ is one of the most exciting product launches that I've worked on. It fills such an important need in the industry right now – a product that can increase beer yield and improve flavor."

Concentrated at 40-70% oil through an inventive supercritical COextraction technique, HyperBoost™ delivers a high concentration of survivable compounds in variety-specific aroma attributes. Currently, HyperBoost™ is ready to ship in 100g and 1kg aluminum bottles in Citra®, Simcoe®, Mosaic®, and more. Dosing will vary by process, equipment, and desired outcome. Most brewers are using HyperBoost™ in the fermenter as an active or post-fermentation dry hop addition, but it can also be used in the whirlpool.

Contact your YCH sales representative about HyperBoost™ and take the aroma and flavor profile of your beer (or hop water) to the next level! Reach out to us at brewinghelp@yakimachief.com with questions on utilization, storage, product specifications, or any other inquiries.

Yakima Chief Hops  

YCH is a 100% grower-owned global hop supplier with a mission to connect brewers with family hop farms. Operating for more than 30 years, we have become leaders in innovation, quality, and customer service. We are a resource for brewers, providing industry-leading research and products. We are advocates of sustainability and meaningful social causes, working to support the communities around us. https://www.yakimachief.com/ 

 

CINCINNATI BREWERY CROWNED GLOBAL IPA CHAMPION: MADTREE'S 'HOLLY DAYS' NAMED #1 IPA WORLDWIDE

CINCINNATI (July 2024) – Cincinnati's own MadTree Brewing has claimed the prestigious title of "#1 IPA on the planet" cementing its place among the world's brewing elite.  At the esteemed Tasting Alliance World Beer Competition their seasonal masterpiece, Holly Days, a spruce tip IPA, triumphed over thousands of entries to secure the top spot, as reported by Forbes Magazine!

"This isn't just a win for MadTree; it's a win for Cincinnati and the entire Midwest brewing scene," says Kenny McNutt, MadTree Co-Founder.  “This award is also a testament to the passion, creativity, and skill of our brewers."

While beer enthusiasts will have to wait until October to taste the champion Holly Days, MadTree isn't resting on its laurels. Their year-round offering, Seeing Colors, is currently the fastest-growing IPA in Greater Cincinnati, giving locals a taste of MadTree's award-winning craftsmanship any day of the year.

Behind this success is a dynamic duo reshaping MadTree's future:

  • Brittany Frey, newly promoted Head Brewer, is one of Ohio's few female head brewers in a male-dominated industry. A Cincinnati State Brewing Science honors graduate, Frey is not only crafting award-winning beers but also championing diversity in brewing through initiatives like International Women's Day celebrations and Pink Boots Society collaborations. Earlier this year, she was also recognized in “Modern Brewsters,” a portrait series of female craft brewers in Ohio by Kaitlin Owens.
  • Ryan Blevins, elevated to Brewing Operations Director, has been with MadTree since day one. His expertise will drive production and innovation, ensuring MadTree remains at the forefront of craft brewing.


"We're not just making beer; we're crafting experiences and challenging perceptions," says Frey. "At MadTree, we're proving that we can create beers that stand toe-to-toe with the best in the world."


As MadTree continues to grow, they invite everyone to visit their taproom and experience firsthand why they're making waves in the global brewing scene. With a commitment to quality, innovation, and community, MadTree is not just a local favorite – they're now a world-renowned brewing powerhouse.

For more information, to plan your visit or host an event, check out madtree.com.

 

About MadTree Brewing Company

Founded in 2013, MadTree is an award-winning brewery that’s rooted in Cincinnati and planted in purpose. Driven to craft great beer - but more importantly - to build a business dedicated to doing good, MadTree protects and celebrates nature while reducing impact on the environment. MadTree is a B Corp certified company and proud member of 1% for the Planet with a commitment to donate 1% of sales to local, sustainable nonprofits. MadTree strives to create warm and welcoming experiences, exceed expectations, and most importantly, plant a better community. They put purpose in every pour, and raise a glass to doing things differently. Cheers.

CARLSBERG AND BROOKLYN BREWERY LAUNCH FIRST EVER LAGER WHERE ALL BARLEY IS REPLACED WITH DROUGHT-RESISTANT FONIO GRAIN

COPENHAGEN, Denmark , July 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Carlsberg has created a brand new beer, using drought resistant fonio crops, in collaboration with Brooklyn Brewery.

The Fonio beer is created using Carlsberg yeast and fonio grains, without the use of any bittering hops or barley, demonstrating what can be achieved when new brewing techniques and ingredients meet curiosity, a mindset that has been at the forefront of everything Carlsberg has done since it opened the brewery doors in 1847.  

The new Fonio beer was brewed in collaboration with Brooklyn Brewery as part of its 'Brewing for Impact' campaign. The campaign was launched by Brooklyn Brewmaster, Garrett Oliver, to celebrate 30 years with the Brewery. Its aim is to spotlight the ancient West African grain and its untapped brewing potential and ability to drive positive change in the industry. 

The resulting limited-edition lager, brewed in the Carlsberg Research Laboratory, is clean, with soft aromas of apricots, white peaches, and melon with an underlying sweetness and lingering bitterness giving a vibrant and delicate finish.

The unique Fonio bottle design was created by Kevin Bongang, a commercial muralist, designer and painter who was born in Cameroon, West Africa, with each of the bottles of Fonio beer having a unique section of the artwork included on the iconic Carlsberg hop leaf.

Zoran Gojkovic, Director of Brewing Science & Technology, Carlsberg said, "Carlsberg is constantly working to invigorate curiosity and I firmly believe that all progress in the world starts with a spark of curiosity. When Garrett Oliver, Brewmaster at Brooklyn Brewery, approached me to discuss what we could create with fonio, the first thing I thought was why has no one made a beer that is completely fonio? Pairing this innovative brew with such a unique menu, created by an incredible chef, demonstrates the potential of this grain. Not only for the beer industry, but beyond."

To launch the new brew, Carlsberg has teamed up with Michelin starred chef, Adejoké Bakare of London's Chishuru restaurant to create a unique five course tasting menu, showcasing the lager's impressive pairing capabilities whilst paying homage to fonio's West African roots.

Carlsberg's Fonio beer will be available in limited quantities from the Home of Carlsberg in Copenhagen from August.

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