SweetWater to upgrade its can tabs

SweetWater Brewery is reeling in a few fresh catches on the fly rod this fall. The Georgia-based brewery announces the return of Festive Ale this October, followed by a brand-spankin’ new haul — Spinnerbait, a Belgian red ale — hookin’ folks later this winter. To continue spicing things up, the brewery is bustin’ out its fish-themed icon on its can tabs catching eyeballs, while folks catch a buzz, later this November.

Festive Ale Returns (October — December): SweetWater is bringing back the festivus for the rest of us once again. This perfect holiday brew is sure to put fans in the mood for roasting chestnuts and jingling their bells. Festive Ale is brewed with a sleigh-load of Centennial and Golding hops and capped with a dash of cinnamon and mace. Measuring in at 8.6 percent ABV, this high-gravity brew is sure to keep drinkers warm and toasted all winter long.

Mark it down on the gift lists, ‘cause just like the holidays, this limited-release sipper only comes around once a year. Festive Ale will be wrapped up in six-packs of 12-ounce bottles, 22-ounce hand-waxed bombers and pouring on draft throughout the Southeast beginning this week through December.

Belgian Red Debuts (December — February): Brewers are stimulating the senses with a brand-new brew joining SweetWater’s Catch and Release seasonal series this winter — Spinnerbait. The Belgian-style red ale will boast sweet malty currents and deep red hues. With fruity esters and spicy notes from the Belgian Ardennes yeast, swirls of sweetness from Belgian rock candy help cast the perfect presentation for the hops to set the hook on this big boy.

Spinnerbait will be sinking its suds onto shelves throughout the Southeast in six-packs, SweetWater’s winter Tackle Box variety packs and draft taps. More info on beer specs, release dates and tasting notes to follow.

New Trout Can Tabs: Always looking for a new opportunity to stay off the mainstream, SweetWater is giving its can tabs a fish facelift this fall, showing off a new rainbow trout pattern. The laser-etched design will complement the current blue colored tabs and make its way to all 12 and 16-ounce cans throughout the Southeast early this November.