Do You Believe in Magic?
Charleston-based Central Distributing (Yes, Mr. Dick Barber and his “Budweiser Machine”) has pulled a rabbit out of a hat by landing the franchise for Magic Hat Brewing Company’s craft beers! The beers will be available in the Charleston and Parkersburg markets. Landing the franchise is one thing; promoting the beer is another. I have been assured by Mr. Barber, that the boys at Central are serious about promoting this product line.
Magic Hat’s flagship product, #9, is very drinkable ale that has been brewed with some apricot. It pours and claims to be English style ale, but of course the fruit aromas come right through. The brewery has done a brilliant job of marketing the product, using the elements of mystery, secrecy and a little magic to promote the beer. “#9” will be appearing on tap this week in a few select local bars. Just look for the unmistakable #9 tap handle!
The complete roll-out of the Magic Hat line in both kegs and bottles will be complete in approximately 90 days. Other “Magic” beers to keep an eye out for are Circus Boy hefeweizen and Fat Angel, English style ale, both great examples of American craft brew.
I am really happy to hear the Central Distributing is taking the craft beer market seriously. I am told to stay tuned for a few more surprises from them in the near future. I can only hope Mr. Barber will now join the movement to help re-write the legislation that hurts availability of craft beers in West Virginia.
Magic Hat #9 in Charleston:
Bar 101 – Capitol StreetBlue BBQ Etc. – Leon Sullivan WayThe Empty Glass – Elizabeth St.The Vandalia Lounge – Hale St.Soho’s and Bridge Road Bistro will follow shortly…
Parkersburg: Ruby Tuesday’sBW3’s (Buffalo Wild Wings)
July 31st, 2007 at 9:56 pm
I’ve never tried any of the Magic Hat beers, but this really is good news. I hope Central Distributing does actually promote their new product, too. Surely they will, with the expense of franchising fee’s and everything else that that type of business arrangement entails.
By the way, I took your suggestion and tried Samuel Smith’s IPA with the Spicy Shrimp and Sausage pizza at Lola’s this evening. Both were outstanding! Thanks for the suggestion.
This was our first visit to Lola’s, but it won’t be the last. I can’t say much that hasn’t already been said about the place, bult if anyone out there hasn’t been there, they need to try it.
August 1st, 2007 at 8:07 am
Thanks for the feedback on the Lola’s pairing. The Weissbier with the pinealpple and Prosciutto is great too.
August 2nd, 2007 at 1:36 pm
Rich,
Any idea if the Magic Hat brews will be available in pony kegs? My beer cooler/dispenser can’t handle anything larger than the 7.5 gallon variety.
August 2nd, 2007 at 3:44 pm
I don’t have that information… You can call Central distributing and ask them. I will check at Blues to see what size keg is there and reply to the post.
September 4th, 2007 at 12:49 pm
Don’t forget, #9 is at Appalachian Power Park, too!