December '97; Portland, OR – The innovative brewing brothers who first brought seasonal biers to America 12 years ago are at it again. Beginning the first week of January, 1998, bier lovers who crave a rich experience can find it in the latest seasonal from Widmer Brothers Brewery. That's when Widmer releases Doppelbock in kegs available only in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, New Jersey, Maryland, Washington D. C. and Virginia through February.

"We were one of the first breweries in the country to make Doppelbock," says Kurt Widmer, President of Widmer Brothers Brewery. "We've been brewing it since 1992 and it's been very popular. In addition to being a great bier, it has a history that's full of tradition and character."

According to all accounts, Doppelbock was first brewed by German monks to be consumed during times of fasting. Forbidden to eat solid food, the monks reasoned they would have to make their liquids as solid as possible, including their bier. So rich was this dark brew, the monks called it "liquid bread."

Made with the premise that more is better, Doppelbock is brewed with more of everything; more pale malt, more hops, more Crystal malt, more fermentation and more conditioning time. The result is a seasonal bier that is rich, warming, and hearty – the alcohol content is 7.8% by volume.

"The story goes that the monks limited themselves to two-gallons a day," smiles Kurt Widmer. "We don't suggest anyone follow in their footsteps, but even in moderate servings, Doppelbock is an excellent seasonal bier, just right for the cold winter months."

Known for innovation in craft biers, Widmer Brothers Brewing Company also brews four other seasonal biers throughout the year. Additionally, Widmer continues to brew its signature line of year-round biers – including Amberbier, Widberry, Blackbier, Vienna, Pilsner, and America's Original Hefeweizen¨, which for more than eight years has remained the top-selling craft bier in Oregon.

Brothers Kurt and Rob Widmer founded Widmer Brothers Brewing Company in 1984. The Widmer combination of craft, innovation, and commitment has resulted in a winning blend that's propelled Widmer as a leading craft brewery, and produced some of the most popular craft biers in the country.

Contact: Greg Jackson, Metropolitan Group, 503.223.3299