I’m interested to see how long it takes to hit network airwaves once it’s been picked up.

Thanks for chiming in Rob, it’s great to see your active role in the beer community. My remote control is in hand and I’m ready to support!

First, in regards to the AB / InBev / Big Beer issue. Development on this show started in 2010. We initially approached a number of breweries on the east and west coasts. As we looked at craft brewing in the midwest, we became very attracted to Chicago and how it had embraced the craft brew industry. We approached Goose Island, and after a number of meetings, they were selected as our initial partner for season one. This made sense for a number of reasons. We liked Chicago, Goose Island “got” what we were trying to do, the Siebel Institute (key show partner) had a great relationship with them, and quite frankly, they stepped up and agreed to give us the prize we requested – national distribution of the winning brewer’s beer.

The acquisition of Goose Island by InBev/AB came about after initial discussions with Goose Island, and to date there have been no agreements, input, etc. with AB/InBev. This is strictly being worked through Goose Island and is independent of their relationship with AB/InBev. As stated above – the agreement with Goose Island is for one season. Subsequent seasons of the show will be run out of other breweries in other cities. However, our working relationship with the people at Goose Island has been amazing, and we would have no issue coming back to them for a future season.

Simply put, Goose Island’s management team stepped up to the plate. They believe in the art and science of the craft brewer, as I believe guys like Jared Rouben exemplify. In addition, Haymarket Brewery and Pub will co-host the show. This dual-brewery formula is being duplicated with a Canadian version of the program, now in development. So, to cut the discussion short on the AB side…this is not an AB show, and the plan is to work with many other breweries down the line and celebrate the independent brewers. It’s a craft brewing show, and more importantly, it’s an independent brewer show.

That leads to the next question….network and schedule. Unfortunately, due to ongoing negotiations, I cannot give out specific dates or outlets. However, the current plan will have us casting within the next two months, shooting season one this summer, and premiering in the fall. Casting is still open, and you can follow the facebook page listed above for additional casting information.

Lastly, and most importantly – great beer is the key to this show. While there will be a number of creative challenges that will test the contestant’s ability to make it in the business of brewing, their beers are their tickets to entry. Every challenge will incorporate their own beers…so fail at the challenge or fail with your brew, you are out.

I hope we can continue to gather momentum with this show. As you have all stated above, getting this stuff out there brings up a number of road-blocks, but we are confident that we can navigate the remaining challenges. So grab your brews and your remote controls. We are going to make this happen.

I am super looking forward to this show up here in Canada!

I like your response but I feel the concern of many in the craft brew industry is the result of where ab/inbev profits from this venture. The legal power of ab/Inbev to turn around and make this theirs is pretty frightening I mean look what they did to Sam at Dogfishead on chicory stout.

I wish everyone involved the best of luck and can’t wait till the show comes out on air!