Deschutes Brewery launches its craft in Greater Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C., might have finally found the catalyst to get some work done, now that Deschutes Brewery will be shipping its craft beers to the Washington, D.C., and northern Virginia area, starting the week of Oct. 27. The Oregon-based brewery will partner with Premium Distributors of Virginia and Premium Distributors of Washington, D.C., both part of the Reyes Beverage Group.

Stacy Denbow, expansion manager for the brewery, said: “Our fans on the east coast have been anxious to get our beers for quite some time, so we’re happy to finally extend our reach their way. Our Zarabanda collaboration with Chef José Andrés was the impetus for the growth, and we are looking forward to launching a few of our fan favorites in the region as well.”

In Washington, D.C., and northern Virginia (Arlington and Alexandria regions), Deschutes will initially offer year-round beers Black Butte Porter, Mirror Pond Pale Ale and Fresh Squeezed IPA in draft only. Zarabanda will be available in both 22-ounce bottles and draft. A limited amount of Reserve Series bottles and kegs of Mirror Mirror and Black Butte XXVI will also make it out for the launch.

Zarabanda is a brand new spiced Saison that was created through a collaboration between José Andrés and Deschutes Brewery. Zarabanda provides a complex malt body formed from a generous use of Vienna and Spelt malts. A classic Saison yeast strain contributes light fruit esters, which are complemented by aromatic dried lime, spicy pink peppercorn, lemon verbena and savory sumac. Launch events for the beer are being planned for later this fall.

Deschutes will also bring its celebrated barrel-aged imperial stout, The Abyss, to both the District of Columbia and Virginia when it is bottled later this year. More beers from the Deschutes Brewery portfolio will be launched in these areas later in 2015.