Craft Beer Marketing Idea of the Week: Colorado lawmakers brew beer with Hop the Vote

Usually if state legislatures are making the headlines of CBB, the news is bad for craft brewers. But Colorado isn’t most states. At this year’s Great American Beer Festival, the Colorado Brewers Guild is hosting Hop the Vote: a friendly but spirited brewing competition that highlights the relationship between Colorado craft brewers and state lawmakers — a concept that feels worthy of being mentioned in our flimsy gimmick: Craft Beer Marketing Idea of the Week.

On August 24th, the Colorado House of Representatives team got together to brew at 4 Noses Brewing. Team members include Representative Alec Garnett (D-Denver), Representative Hugh McKean (R-Loveland), Kim Ransom (R-Littleton), Jeff Bridges (D-Greenwood Village) and Kevin Van Winkle (R-Highlands Ranch).

“As the beer business evolves, it is clear how crucial it is for us to work well with lawmakers locally and nationally,” said Tommy Bibliowicz, president and brewmaster at 4 Noses Brewing. “Participating in an event like Hop the Vote really ties both aspects of this together and embraces the mutual passion and curiosity for great beer that many of us share.”

The House Beer: 4 Votes IPA

At 7.1 percent alcohol by volume (ABV), 4 Votes is a classic take on a bi-partisan IPA. The foundation of 4 Votes IPA is Colorado grown two-row and Munich malt from Proximity Malting, which lends a creamy mouthfeel and a mild level of biscuit-like sweetness. A heavy late addition of Amarillo and Simcoe hops creates a complex and lightly bitter flavor profile. The aroma is bright citrus and pineapple from copious amounts of dry-hopping.

On August 25, the Colorado State Senate team brewed at Renegade Brewing. Team members included Senator Tim Neville (R-Littleton), Senator Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder) and Chris Holbert (R-Parker).

“It’s an honor to represent members of the Colorado Brewers Guild by engaging our legislators in our industry in a fun and exciting way,” said Renegade Brewing owner Brian O’Connell. “This program shows the importance of craft beer in our state and the commitment of the CBG to work with our legislators to keep our industry strong. We are a vital part of the state’s economy and business leaders and legislators alike can work together to keep it strong.”

The Senate Beer: Upper Chamber Haze

At 5.5 percent alcohol by volume (ABV), Upper Chamber Haze is sure to appeal to constituents across the board. This easy drinking brew unites IPA styles from both coasts — big, juicy aromas, a touch of haze and a lasting grapefruit finish will leave the chambers toasting across the aisle.

The competing brews will continue to ferment as GABF nears. During the first three sessions of GABF, team members will be campaigning and pouring the fruits of their labor at the Colorado Brewers Guild booth in the Guild Pavilion. Attendees will have the opportunity to sample the beers and cast their votes at each session. The winner will be announced on Oct. 7 at 3:45 p.m.