Wisconsin Brewing to collaborate with Pabst on a classic American ale

Wisconsin Brewing Co. announced a new collaboration with Pabst Brewing Co. for Old Tankard Ale, a classic post-prohibition American ale from Pabst’s heritage portfolio that was originally enjoyed in the 1930s. Under the terms of the agreement, Wisconsin Brewing Co. will brew Old Tankard Ale in kegs and the brew will be sold on draft in Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota and Michigan initially, before rolling out to additional states in the future.

Pabst’s deep ties to Wisconsin date back to 1844, when the company was established in Milwaukee. Pabst’s portfolio includes a wide range of over 30 iconic heritage brands – many of which were founded in Wisconsin including Schlitz, Old Milwaukee, Blatz, Old Style and its flagship brand, Pabst Blue Ribbon.

“From the beginning, we’ve been dedicated to brewing a variety of beers loaded with awesome flavor. Pabst has deep Wisconsin roots and we’re honored to have been chosen to work with them to bring such a beloved legacy brand to life,” said Carl Nolen, president and CEO of Wisconsin Brewing Co, “Although we’ve had other inquiries about contract brewing, none have been in alignment with our vision and strategy until now. This historic opportunity to work with an iconic Wisconsin brand like Old Tankard is a perfect fit for us. We are really excited.”

Wisconsin Brewing is a craft beer production and brand marketing company located in Verona, Wis., founded by brothers Carl and Mark Nolen and Brewmaster Kirby Nelson in 2013. Old Tankard is brewed using an authentic ale yeast, with an alcohol content of 5.8% and 35 bitterness units. This top fermented brew has 2-row, imported Cara-Munich and Cara-Aroma malts with Nugget, Liberty, Willamette and Cascade hops. The result is a well-balanced, sessionable American ale with the fruitiness and maltiness of an extra special bitter.

Pabst’s Master Brewer and Wisconsin Native Greg Deuhs stated: “We have a rich craft brewing heritage at Pabst that dates back to the 19th century and are truly proud to resurrect this classic American ale.”

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