Early Tuesday morning, Highland Brewing Company mashed in a new collaboration brew – Rustic IPA – alongside Sierra Nevada Brewing Company and independent, family-owned hop and malt suppliers including Riverbend Malthouse, Briess Malting, Crosby Hop Farms, Roy Farms, and CLS Farms. The assembly of brewers and suppliers met at Highland to brew and celebrate Highland’s 25 years of pioneering beer in Asheville and throughout the Southeast.
Brian Grossman, Family-Owner and Second-Generation Brewer for Sierra Nevada in Mills River, said, “When Sierra Nevada chose to build our second brewery in Asheville, Highland welcomed us with open arms. Being multi- generational, family-owned companies, we share similar values and experiences. We were proud to collaborate with our friends to brew a special beer to celebrate their 25th anniversary. “
Rustic IPA blends experimental hops like Motueka, Zappa, Azacca, and Strata that lend notes of tropical fruit and lemongrass to the brew. Fruity hop character is accentuated by a soft, hazy malt bill featuring flaked oats, rye, pilsner malt, and wheat. At 5.8% ABV and 45 IBUs, this beer is a balanced showcase for the best of innovation and tradition from each of the collaborators.
“Good businesses are built on relationships and we genuinely enjoy and are proud of our relationships with Sierra Nevada and these suppliers,” said Family-Owner and President of Highland Brewing, Leah Ashburn. “Brian and I are in a small group of second-generation family leaders in craft beer and we intend to build a sustainable future for both our breweries. This collaboration beer celebrates that future.”
Rustic IPA will be available as a limited release in 16-ounce four-pack cans and on draft in North Carolina, Tennessee, and South Carolina. The special collaboration brew will be released alongside Slow Crush – Highland’s new year-round tart spritz ale – as part of the brewery’s two-day anniversary festivities May 3-4, along with exclusive small batch and barrel-aged beers. The anniversary party will feature local live music, fantastic food, and more.
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