DENVER — SweetWater Brewing Company, one of the largest craft brewers in the United States based on volume, announced it will expand into Colorado beginning Monday, Feb. 1.
The Atlanta-based brewery said its expansion into Colorado is its furthest western market to date.
The company said it will partner with Eagle Rock Distributing Company of Colorado to reach 75% of the state, including the Denver metro area, Loveland, Littleton, Colorado Springs, Pueblo and Durango.
"SweetWater’s tasty West Coast style brews, including flagship 420 Extra Pale Ale and a newly launched year-rounder H.A.Z.Y IPA, will flow into the state via bars, restaurants and select retail establishments starting Feb. 1, 2021," said a news release.
> Above video: Denver craft beer bars find unique ways to stay in business during pandemic.
SweetWater Brewing Company said its acquisition in November 2020 by Aphria Inc., "a cannabis-lifestyle consumer packaged goods company inspiring and empowering the worldwide community to live their very best life," makes Colorado a perfect fit for their brews.
“Colorado has always held a special place in my heart," said SweetWater Brewing Company CEO and Founder Freddy Bensch. "It’s where I first learned to brew beer and where I now live half of the year in Telluride. Because of my connection with the state, SweetWater has always had a Colorado vibe, from our West Coast style beers to our 420-friendly lifestyle and passion for the great outdoors."
With the expansion into Colorado, SweetWater’s beers will be available in 27 states, as well as Washington, D.C.
"Having our flagship brews and news brands like H.A.Z.Y available throughout the state feels like coming home," said Bensch. "Finally, we can pick up some 420s before hitting the slopes or river!"
SweetWater Brewing Company said it has been a sponsor of the Telluride Ski Resort over the past four years.
“With roots in Atlanta, we’re very familiar with SweetWater and we’re honored that they’ve chosen us to handle their distribution out in the Centennial State,” said Eagle Rock Distributing Company of Colorado President Mike Economos. “We’ve seen them grow from a small local brewery to a highly successful brand with a team of fun-loving people passionate about both craft beer and the environment. Colorado is sure to show them a warm welcome.”
> Top stories curated daily just for you! Sign up for the 9NEWSLETTER to get can’t-miss stories, Next and Broncos content, weather and more delivered right to your inbox.
SUGGESTED VIDEOS: Colorado Guide
MORE WAYS TO GET 9NEWS
Subscribe to our daily 9NEWSLETTER
Download the 9NEWS APP
iTunes: http://on9news.tv/itunes
Google Play: http://on9news.tv/1lWnC5n
HOW TO ADD THE 9NEWS APP TO YOUR STREAMING DEVICE
ROKU: add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching for KUSA.
For both Apple TV and Fire TV, search for "9news" to find the free app to add to your account. Another option for Fire TV is to have the app delivered directly to your Fire TV through Amazon.