Where Trader Joes' Beer Comes From

Seeing as we're getting a TJ's here in KC pretty soon, I thought this post that I stumbled upon today was particularly relevant. Trader Joe's, as I think most people know, repackages food made by brand-name producers (Annie's dressing, Stacy's pita chips, Hormel chili, etc). Including their beer.

Thanks to reddit, I came across a blog post that identified its beers. General impression is that we'll get their Firestone Walker made brewskies (especially since they'll soon distribute here), but I suppose we'll only know for sure when they open in the Ward Parkway shopping center later this year. Some examples of TJ beers & their producers:

- Trader Jose's Premium Lager:  Gordon Biersch
- Stockyard Oatmeal Stout:  Goose Island
- TJ's Vintage Ale:  Unibroue
- Mission St Pale Ale:  Firestone-Walker

Check out the full list at French Oak TV.

KC Bier Meisters 28th Annual Competition

We've been busy working on the KC Bier Meisters' 28th annual homebrew competition. I wrote about last year's event, and this year's is coming up in about a month. Our theme this year is "Amber Waves of Grain" with a focus on local, sustainable ingredients and brewing practices - reusing resources like barrels and making beer with local ingredients such as wheat.

Our banquet speaker is Stephen Hale, Chief Brewer at the Schlafly Taproom
Our morning speaker is Paul Kavulak, owner of (and brewer at) Nebraska Brewing Company

Homebrewers, time to get together some of those brews for entry!  Entries must be received by Saturday February 5, and judging will be held on February 18 and 19 at Holy Field Winery in Basehor, KS. The entry fee is $7 per entry and online entry and payment are available at the competition website below.

Awards will be given in the 28 BJCP beer, cider and mead categories. Additionally a special Best of Show award will be given to the best beer that uses wheat as a substantial ingredient. If you wish to volunteer as a judge or steward you can do so through the online entry system and your help is appreciated.

Check out our competition website for complete details. And see you there!