As Surly looks at 12 years…

This year, Surly will mark 12 years in the independent craft brewing industry. It’s had me thinking about what a wild and non-stop ride it’s been since the first keg of Furious sold in 2006. Every year, the plan is to release an anniversary beer that’s extreme. The style is heavy with experimental everything and pushes our brewing process and equipment to new levels. The plan for Twelve was no different. Until it was different. The style that resulted from pushing the boundaries of unconventional experimentation didn’t meet my expectations for an anniversary beer and therefore we won’t be releasing Twelve. I stand behind the integrity of every brand we release, and only want Surly Nation to try the beers that I want to drink with them. Unfortunately, this anniversary style just didn’t make the cut. While this is disappointing, among many other emotions, this year’s brand calendar is full of beers that we’re excited about, that I’m excited about: the innovative styles in the BC Small Batch series, new Darkness variants and collaborations with local and national breweries and brands (yes, First Avenue!). The past 12 years certainly wouldn’t have been possible without taking risks and breaking new ground and I hope Surly Nation understands this decision and is equally anticipating the new styles you’ll see on shelves this year. I look forward to grabbing a pint with Surly Nation, literally and metaphorically.

See you drinking,

Omar