Abita Is Stepping up to the Plate

Louisiana has many things it can call it's own. Many things to be proud of. These call-signs usually involve food, or culture, or bitching parties (mardi gras). But, one great institution that is solely Louisiana is the Abita Brewing Company. They have been producing quality beer since 1986. That's 24 years of brewing genius. They have recently moved beyond the bounds of a microbrewery and are a mainstream staple amongst beer connoisseurs. And their quality speaks for itself.

Whether it is the always impressive and crisp Abita Amber, to the ever so refreshing, summer Abita Satsuma, your taste buds bounce and leap with an over 21 joy. But the beer is only one part that makes them great.

Its' not the free tour...which is pretty awesome with all you can drink beer. It's not the post consumer grade, recycled materials used in both the bottles and the six-pack packaging...which is virtually unheard of in your big 3 companies of mass produced rice beer. But, it's their dedication to the community that shows a commitment to the consumer as a person and not a dollar sign.

After Hurricane Katrina, which needs no introduction or explanation, they came out with and produced a Restoration Ale. Quite possibly one of the best ales on the market. A portion of the sale of these went to efforts for restoring the area after Hurricane Katrina. Awesome!

Now, they have responded to the disaster in the gulf. They have just come out with a SOS Pilsner. Which, I drink as I write this...and I admit is very good. I have taken this description from the Abita Website:

Working with the Louisiana Seafood Promotion & Marketing Board (LSPMB), Abita Beer announced that it has established ‘SOS – A Charitable Fund’ that will assist with the rescue and restoration of the environment, industry and individuals fighting to survive this disastrous oil spill.

The fund has pledged that 100% of all money raised will go to charity. In addition, the Louisiana Seafood Marketing Board will play an important role in advising where the money can do the most good. An advisory committee is being established as the donation process and grant procedures are finalized.

The centerpiece of the fundraising effort is a new charitable beer created by Abita. The brew, called SOS – A Charitable Pilsner, will generate 75¢ for every bottle sold. This Abita Beer is a message in a bottle...a distress signal for the troubled waters of our Gulf Coast. For every bottle sold Abita will donate 75¢ to the rescue and restoration of the environment, industry and individuals fighting to survive this disastrous oil spill. This unfiltered Weizen Pils is made with Pilsner and Wheat malts. It is hopped and dry hopped with Sterling and German Perle hops. It has a brilliant gold color, a sweet malt flavor, and a pleasant bitterness and aroma.

In addition, related retail merchandise (hat, tee shirt, lapel pin, decal and car magnet) will be sold and 100% of the net proceeds will also go to the SOS Fund.

I write this to inform and encourage. You can always donate directly to the fund or to another related organization, but this is just another, fun way to contribute. Bottoms Up!



Picture I took from the tour. All free, fill it up yourself