As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with a detailed answer to your question: Is Shock Top still made? Shock Top, initially introduced by Anheuser-Busch in 2006, was a Belgian-style wheat ale that gained popularity for its citrusy and refreshing flavor profile. However, over the years, the brand has faced its fair share of challenges and changes.
In 2017, Shock Top underwent a rebranding effort in an attempt to revitalize the brand and attract a broader consumer base. Unfortunately, this endeavor did not yield the desired results, and Shock Top started to experience a decline in popularity. The rebranding may have been seen as a departure from the original identity of the beer, which may have been off-putting to some loyal fans.
Furthermore, Shock Top faced financial challenges, partly due to the 2023 Bud Light boycott. This boycott had a significant impact on Anheuser-Busch's overall sales and profitability, and Shock Top was not exempt from its consequences. As a result, Anheuser-Busch made the decision to sell the brand.
In August 2023, Anheuser-Busch sold Shock Top to Tilray, a cannabis company. This unexpected move marked a significant shift in direction for the brand. With Tilray's expertise in the cannabis industry, there was speculation that Shock Top might undergo a transformation to incorporate cannabis-infused products or explore other opportunities within the cannabis market.
However, there has been limited information available regarding the current production and availability of Shock Top under Tilray's ownership. The brand's website and social media channels have been relatively inactive since the acquisition, and it remains unclear whether the production of Shock Top has continued.
Personal experiences and situations can shed light on the topic at hand. As a sommelier and brewer, I have witnessed many brands go through ups and downs in the industry. It is not uncommon for a beer brand to face challenges and changes in ownership, which can have a significant impact on its production and availability.
While Shock Top was once a popular Belgian-style wheat ale, the brand entered a decline following a failed rebranding effort in 2017. Citing financial shortfalls, Anheuser-Busch sold Shock Top to Tilray, a cannabis company, in August 2023. Since then, information regarding the current production and availability of Shock Top has been limited. The future of Shock Top under Tilray's ownership remains uncertain, and it is unclear whether the brand will continue to be made.