If you’re a craft beer connoisseur that has traveled out west, chances are you’ve heard of the brewery New Belgium. Its roots are in Fort Collins, CO, where Jeff Lebesch took his Belgian inspired beer recipes and ideas from his travels through Europe, and brought them to life in a basement. The starter beers were the Abbey, an earthy brown ale, and Fat Tire, the amber ale that paved the way for the brewery and to this day is in many tap rooms across US. 

Thanks to the brewery’s expansion into it’s second home in Ashville, North Carolina, it’s been able to extend its distribution. The New Belgium legacy recently carried its tasty brews to New England, and right into the hands of Vermont beer drinkers. We’re excited to be distributing it to some of our favorite local watering holes!

Let’s meet some of the key players:

Fat Tire Belgian White Ale- This iconic ale has been satisfying taste buds ever since New Belgium started brewing it 25 years ago. It got its name from New Belgium’s co-founder’s Belgium countryside “fat tire” bike ride, hence the ale’s belgian roots. 

Dayblazer Easygoing Ale- This golden ale starts out with an initial honey sweetness, then rounds out with a subtle bitterness. Just as the name suggests, this beer is easy going at 4.8%. Good thing it comes in 24 oz cans!

Citradelic Tangerine IPA- The blend of Citra hops and tangerine peel brings a refreshing, tropical taste to the palate with every sip. This well-balanced brew is perfect for beer drinkers who are looking to change it up. Drink this IPA outside on a sunny day and you won’t be disappointed. 

Also joining our lineup of 13 brewers for the Baker’s Dozen Pub Crawl is the Boston Beer Company!

The Boston Beer Company began in 1984 with a generations-old family recipe that Founder and Brewer Jim Koch uncovered in his father’s attic. Inspired and unafraid to challenge conventional thinking about beer, Jim brought the recipe to life in his kitchen. Pleased with the results of his work, Jim decided to sample his beer with bars in Boston in the hopes that drinkers would appreciate the complex, full-flavored beer he brewed fresh in America. That beer was aptly named Samuel Adams Boston Lager, in recognition of one of our nation’s great founding fathers, a man of independent mind and spirit. Little did Jim know at the time, Samuel Adams Boston Lager would soon become a catalyst of the American craft beer revolution.

What do they have to offer?

Today, The Boston Beer Company brews more than 60 styles of beer. It relentlessly pursues the development of new styles and the perfection of classic beers by searching the world for the finest ingredients. Using the traditional four vessel brewing process, the Company often takes extra steps like dry-hopping, barrel-aging and a secondary fermentation known as krausening. The Company has also pioneered another revolution, the ‘extreme beer’ movement, where it seeks to challenge drinker’s perceptions of what beer can be.

The Boston Beer Company has been committed to elevating the image of American craft beer by entering festivals and competitions around the globe, and is one of world’s most awarded breweries at international beer competitions. As an independent company, brewing quality beer remains its primary focus. Although Samuel Adams beer is America’s leading craft beer, it accounts for only one percent of the U.S. beer market. The Boston Beer Company will continue its independently-minded quest to brew great beer and to advocate for the growth of craft beer across America.

Key Players:

Boston Lager: After being on the market for over 30 years, this refreshing lager is still a staple within the lineup. It’s a full-flavored beer both robust and rich with character.

Summer Ale: This refreshing American wheat ale is returning to the market for the 21st year, this time with limited edition packaging to compliment summer adventures. It’s crisp, citrusy flavor will keep you coming back for more.

Rebel IPA: This IPA has undergone a few recipe alterations over the years, and now offers an intense, juicy, tropical and citrusy flavor that highlights its unique hop character. It is now only brewed with Samuel Adams special two-row malt blend. It also comes in a variety pack featuring an exclusive lineup of variations including the Rebel Juiced IPA, Rebel Grapefruit IPA and Rebel White Citra IPA.

We’re excited to be adding Brown’s Brewing Co. to our lineup of breweries joining us for the Baker’s Dozen Pub Crawl next Thursday, May 18th.

Back in 1993, before the surge of craft breweries, Garry and Kelly Brown opened a brewpub in then-blighted Troy, NY, more or less to make the beer they wanted to drink. The Browns were undaunted and compelled by a need to share what they made with everyone looking for something new and fresh.

What do they have to offer?

Brown’s Brewing Company has become what it is today through grit and determination with two very popular taprooms, an R&D pilot brewery in Troy, and a full scale production brewery and canning facility in North Hoosick. Distributed in three states, Brown’s cans and draughts are among the most enjoyable and celebrated locally brewed and hand crafted ales and lagers around. Whether you visit the Walloomsac Taproom or the Troy Taproom, you can expect to enjoy delicious beer and food accompanied by a fun atmosphere.

Brown’s Brewing Co. Beer Highlights:Cherry Razz: Tart and sassy like its name, this Amber Ale features a generous amount of whole crushed cherries and raspberries balancing a sweet malt forward character and a slight hop zest. When you need an easy drinking beer, this amber ale is a great choice.

Coast-To-Coast IPA: With a mighty malt backbone, this trend defying IPA balances west coast bitter with east coast juice for an unmistakably drinkable and engaging beer. IPA lovers get the best of both worlds in every sip.

Oatmeal Stout: Engaging, dark, and bold, our ever popular ode to the classic English Stout earned Brown’s the prestigious gold medal at the World Beer Cup but that hasn’t prevented the brewery from refining this defining brew into an approachable easy to drink, rich, and silky smooth glass of pure deliciousness.

Spring Seasonal released in May:

Krüsh Kölsch: Featuring a low ABV and an IBU exactly right for those summer days you never want to see end. Brown’s Krüsh Kölsch is nimble and very easy to drink. Cold conditioned and fermented using a blend of lager and ale yeast, this beer’s complex flavors finish clean and refreshing, beckoning you to keep going.

Leading up to our Baker’s Dozen Pub Crawl event on May 18th, we’ll be introducing you to some of the breweries that will be joining us! First up is Ithaca Beer Co.

Nestled in the heart of New York’s beautiful Finger Lakes Region, Ithaca Beer Company demonstrates its pride by brewing world-class craft beer inspired by its home. At Ithaca Beer, they are driven to reflect the culture, creativity, and diversity of the area in everything they do. From their complex and innovative beers to the local fare served in our lively Taproom brewpub – their unwavering attention to detail and passion for their community and our craft is unmistakable.

What does their tasting room have to offer?

In addition to year-round favorites like our popular Flower Power IPA, you can also choose from new five barrel beers, a special Thursday night cask, and seasonal selections on rotation. Enjoy dining indoors, soaking up the scenery on our patio, or relaxing on the lawn in the warmer months. We are also pleased to offer brewery tours on weekends and by reservation, giving our customers a behind-the-scenes look at our facilities. It’s easy to get in the spirit, at Ithaca Beer!

Ithaca Beer Co. Highlights:

Flower Power IPA: Enjoy the clover honey hue and tropical nose. Simultaneously Punchy and soothing with a big body and a finish that boasts pineapple and grapefruit. Flower power is hopped and dry-hopped five different times throughout the brewing and fermentation process.

Happy Pils: Brilliantly clear and refreshing, this German Pilsner boasts a healthy amount of spicy noble Germans hops, and a dynamic, yet restrained malt backbone. Our Happy Pils is bound to bring a smile to any craft beer lover’s face.

May Xipaa “Alexir”: The Alexir is an exuberant New England IPA with a generous and unique pairing of Citra, Chinook, and Simcoe hops throughout the boil, whirlpool and double dry hop additions. This Spring potion balances malt sweetness with a confident thirst quenching mouthfeel. Golden in color while hazier than previous XIPPA!s. You’ll find the bold character of big pineapple, fresh citrus and tropical fruit makes this entry a perfect hoppy tonic for May afternoons and evenings – indoors or out, standing or sitting. For added intrigue, the discerning drinker will enjoy a small amount of Pacific Jade that brings in a small element of citrusy zest, pepper and funk.

Baker Distributing is excited to announce we’re teaming up with the Burlington Firefighter’s Association (BFFA) Local 3044 to aid in their efforts to raise money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. For every person who attends our upcoming first annual Baker’s Dozen Pub Crawl on May 18th, Baker Distributing is donating $10 to the cause. Here’s a little more information about our fundraising partner, the BFFA.

The Burlington Firefighter’s Association (BFFA) is a collection of just under 60 Burlington Firefighter/EMT’s, Lieutenants, and Captains that operate under the Local chapter (L3044) of the International Association of Fire Fighters. The BFFA serves as both the labor union body that represents Burlington’s line firefighters and officers with management and City Administration as well as the collective outlet for Burlington Firefighters to give back to the community they serve.

Burlington’s Firefighters and EMT/medics protect the Queen City 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and it is the BFFA that has made sure the men and women on the job have fair pay and benefits as well as a safe work environment.  The BFFA also serves the men and women on the job during their times of struggle; be it financial support during periods of injury or illness, long term support to a member’s family upon a line-of-duty death, or periods of emotional support to cope with the scars we bear during our careers.

The BFFA also acts as the path for Burlington Firefighters to give back the the city they call a second home.  Every year, the BFFA hosts, or participates in, events that raise money for charitable organizations:  A scenic train ride fundraiser for the Ronald McDonald House, a Fill-the-Boot and Hero Run 5k to support the MDA, and Operation FireCuff’s to collect toys for the Vermont Children’s Hospital during the holiday season.  This year they also embark on a new venture, a joint effort with Baker’s Distributing to raise money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

The BFFA has a long and dynamic history of protecting and supporting the men and women of the Burlington Fire Department while also giving back to the city we know and love. Our Baker Distributing team is excited to join forces to engage with the community, celebrate craft beer and raise money for such a great cause!

There is no better way to welcome Spring than with the flavors of refreshing Vermont craft brews that perfectly highlight the season. What do our Baker Distributing brewers have in store? Let’s take a look at the brews you won’t want to miss out on.

Magic Hat: Single Chair Golden Ale– We like to think this easy drinking ale is best enjoyed in the sun, or after a long day on the slopes. Why just a single chair you may ask? It commemorates the single chair lift that resides at Mad River, one of only two in the country. As stated on Magic Hat’s website, “As winter’s cover melts to reveal spring’s hidden life, take a ride to the topon the Single Chair and celebrate your independent spirit.”

Otter Creek- Citra Mantra IPL– This refreshing India Pils Lager is single-hopped with Citra hops. The flavor is highlighted by Pilsner, Munich and Vienna malts that give it a crisp tropical and citrus finish. At 5.75%, this IPL makes for smooth sipping.

Switchback- Smoked Märzen- If you like a balanced and hoppy brew that helps you welcome the sites and sounds of spring, this Rauch Bier style Märzen does the trick. With it’s unique smokey flavor from Munich malt, and a touch of bitterness from German Magnum hops and Vanguard hops, you’ll be enjoying every sip of smokey deliciousness. Available in 22oz bottles and in the tap room.

Switchback- Citra-Pils Keller Bier– Now available year-round, this is another great beer to reach for when you need a light and drinkable brew. It’s citrusy flavor combines characteristics of both a pilsner and IPA, presenting the palate with a unique spin on the typical lager style beer. The key to it’s flavor comes from dry hopping the beer with both Citra and Saaz hops. Expect a touch of lemony flavor on the palate to give it a delightfully refreshing taste. Available in 12oz bottles and in the tap room.

Goodwater- Hoppy Side of Pale– If you like pale ales and you like IPAs, you’ll definitely love a beer that combines the best of both beers. The preliminary flavors of this beer indicate the smooth notes of a full bodied pale ale. Once it lingers longer, you then get a slightly hoppy finish. With these complex flavors to enjoy, you’ll certainly be hopping over to Goodwater for another taste.

These are just a few reasons to celebrate the long anticipated arrival of spring. It’s time to get outside for some adventure! Whether you sip your next beer from the top of a mountain, at the bottom of the slopes, or simply outside in your yard while grilling with friends, we hope you enjoy every second!

The sunny, spring weather we’ve been dreaming about all winter long has finally arrived. This means it’s time to treat ourselves to just the right beverages that complement warmer temperatures. Here at Baker Distributing, we recommend a drinkable Rosé wine. Let’s take a look at some of our new offerings for 2017.

Boyden Valley Winery: Rosé La JuJu

This wine is made locally right in Cambridge, Vermont. It is dry in taste and full of raspberry flavor that complements its vibrant acidity. It’s made using Frontenac and Cayuga White grapes. Fun Fact: The Rosé is named after the Boyden daughters Juliette and Laurence.

Angeline Vineyard and Winery: Pinot Noir Rosé

Enjoy a delicate, fruity flavor of strawberry and citrus when you uncork a bottle of this Rosé. It is rich with aromas of watermelon, nectarine, ruby red grapefruit, lilies, and orange blossoms. 

Martin Ray Vineyard and Winery: Pinot Noir Rosé

Treat yourself to a blend of blood orange, kiwifruit, passionfruit and coconut flavors, mingling with the aromas of watermelon and orange creme. This Rosé would be ideal for a relaxing afternoon in the sun. 

With Easter and Mother’s Day just around the corner, there are plenty of reasons to celebrate with the ones you love. Keep these rosés in mind when you’re looking for the perfect wine for the occasion. Happy sipping!

There’s nothing like a refreshing cold beer to quench your thirst after a long run or a relaxing yoga session. In fact, the two have been known to pair quite well together, giving Switchback Brewing Company the perfect opportunity to give customers some spring events that warrant a well-deserved carbonated beverage.

Run Vermont Half Marathon Unplugged

The Half Marathon Unplugged is this Saturday April 8th, 2017. It’s organized by RunVermont and presented by Switchback. The finish line on Flynn Avenue conveniently puts runners right at the brewery after party where they get to enjoy one complimentary beer and various food offerings. After running 13.1 miles along Lake Champlain while battling potentially chilly spring temperatures and wind, we can’t think of a better way to refuel and recover. Read more about the event here.

Stretch and Sip in the Switchback Taproom

Check out Switchback’s recurring “Stretch and Sip” events that take place one Sunday a month. The session happens right in the tap room and you simply have to BYOM- bring your own mat. After a 60-minute Vinyasa flow class that allows you to relax and unwind, you get to enjoy a pint or flight of your choice that’s included in your $20 registration fee. Maybe you’ll even try your luck at balancing in tree pose while sipping your way through a sampler. Not a bad way to wrap up a weekend and prepare for the work week ahead! Check their Facebook page to learn how to sign up for the next Stretch and Sip session.

If you’re looking to combine your favorite spring activities with your love of Vermont beer, be sure to keep an eye out for other Switchback events like these in the upcoming months. Staying fit while enjoying the beers you love has never been easier!

We are excited to announce that we have three craft beers available for shipment beginning next week, from Founders Brewing and Brown’s Brewing Co.

What’s Available?

Founders Brewing: Backwoods Bastard Ale – Limited Release. This Scotch Ale / Wee Heavy features smells of single malt scotch, oaky bourbon barrels, smoke, sweet caramel and roasted malts. 11.2% | 50 IBU

Founders Brewing: Harvest Ale -Limited Release.  This American IPA rewards you with a super juicy hop presence bursting with fresh citrus, then finishes to introduce toasted malt undertones. 7.6% ABV | 70 IBU

Browns Brewing: “Burst” Valencia Orange IPA – available in 4 pack, 16oz cans. Burst IPA is an American East Coast IPA with a global taste profile. Copious amounts of summer sweet delicious Valencia Orange zest, blended with an English Ale yeast give this IPA maximum hop flavor and aroma without being overly bitter.  6.5% ABV | 65 IBU

Backlash Beer Co., based out of Boston, Massachusetts, was founded by Helder Pimentel and Maggie Foley in 2011, and is the newest craft brewery added to our beer portfolio.

We’re excited to let you know that we now have their Ricochet IPA in 4 pack 16oz cans and kegs for purchase! Below, find information about this delicious, American IPA.

Beer Info:

Style: American IPA

Alcohol by volume (ABV): 7.20%

Availability: Rotating

Notes / Commercial Description:
West Coast Style IPA

If you are interested in learning more about Backlash Brewing Co. & their other available beers, you can sign-up here to be on the mailing list, so you can find out where to find their new cans & where to find their beer on draught!

We’re so thrilled to welcome Backlash Brewing Company to Vermont!