August '97; Portland, OR – The first craft brewery to introduce seasonal biers to America is back this fall with its number-one selling seasonal. Oktoberfest from Widmer Brothers Brewing Company arrives in 16 states the second week of August, and is available through the end of Oktober.

"Our Oktoberfest has always been a favorite in high demand," says Kurt Widmer, President. "Perhaps it's because our customers know it's only available for such a short amount of time, and they have to take advantage while it's on hand."

Widmer Oktoberfest is a German-style harvest bier perfectly suited to crisp autumn days. As golden as the season it represents, Oktoberfest is a rich amber, medium-bodied bier with a lively malty taste. This popular seasonal bier incorporates four malted barleys and choice Mt. Hood and Tettnanger hops for balance and unsurpassed flavor.

Known for innovation in craft biers, Widmer Brothers Brewing Company also brews four other seasonal biers at various times throughout the year. Additionally, Widmer continues to brew its signature line of year-round biers. They include Amberbier, Widberry, Blackbier, Vienna, Czech Pilsner and the best-selling 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. Their focus and commitment remains on the German Old World style of brewing and quality. The combination of craft, innovation, and commitment has made Widmer a favorite among bier lovers in the Northwest, and has resulted in a winning blend that's propelling Widmer as a leading craft brewery in the country.

Contact: Greg Jackson, Metropolitan Group, 503.223.3299