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July/August 2006 Features

Celebrating 20 Years of Abita's Home Brew

by Stacey Paretti Rase

Two decades ago, it all began with two: “Golden” and “Amber.” In 1986, Louisiana’s first microbrewery, the Abita Springs Brewing Company, was launched. David Blossman, one of the original entrepreneurs, who now serves as the company’s president, remembers projecting an output of about 55 barrels during that first year. The beer’s popularity was unprecedented, however, and more than 1,500 barrels were actually brewed. It was a sign of things to come.

Today, Abita Beer is available in over 30 states and is expected to roll out 60,000 barrels of beer in 2006. Louisiana’s original microbrewery now offers six flagship brews, five seasonal brews and numerous specialty brews. If you’ve lived on the northshore for long, you’re sure to have tasted at least one of the flagship five: Amber, Golden, Light, Purple Haze and Turbodog. And if you’ve bought any of their Fleur-de-lis Restoration Ale that was introduced shortly after Hurricane Katrina, you will be happy to know that you have helped contribute more than $350,000 to hurricane-related charities from its sales. One dollar from the sale of every six-pack is donated to the Louisiana Restaurant Association and its Education Foundation for Hurricane Relief.

The latest Abita beer buzz—pun intended—revolves around the brewery’s 20th Anniversary Pilsner, which commemorates the brewery’s two decades of success. You will know it immediately when you see it on the shelf. The label features the vibrant colors instantly recognizable as the work of renowned New Orleans artist James Michalopoulos. The image of Abita Brew Pub comes alive, aglow in the moonlight under a canopy of oaks.

The original commissioned painting will be on permanent display in the brewery’s new tasting room, which is currently under construction. Reproductions will be offered in a series of limited edition prints, glassware and apparel, allowing Abita enthusiasts to express their passion for one of Louisiana’s favorite brands.

Abita Brewing Company held a party to unveil the Michalopoulos painting and the new brew in June, and will be throwing an anniversary party of epic proportions on August 12, featuring the popular band “Better than Ezra.” The first 1,000 people of legal drinking age to redeem a special code number printed inside all six-packs of Abita 20th Anniversary Pilsner will gain free admission to the bash. You won’t want to miss it!