Wicked Weed Brewing, founded in 2012, made headlines in 2017 when it entered into a partnership with the Anheuser-Busch family of craft breweries. This partnership raised questions about the independence and ownership of Wicked Weed. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with a detailed answer to this question.
Wicked Weed Brewing is indeed in a partnership with the Anheuser-Busch family of craft breweries, which includes well-known brands such as Goose Island, Blue Point, and Elysian. However, it is important to note that while this partnership exists, Wicked Weed's original founders still enjoy a significant level of independent freedom and control over their recipes and brand development. This means that they have the ability to continue brewing their unique and innovative beers without interference from the larger parent company.
Now, let's delve deeper into the concept of ownership. While the partnership with Anheuser-Busch does involve a financial investment from the larger company, it does not mean that Wicked Weed is fully owned by them. Instead, it can be seen as a strategic alliance that allows both parties to benefit from each other's resources and expertise. Wicked Weed retains its own identity and remains responsible for its own operations.
Having said that, it is worth acknowledging that the partnership with Anheuser-Busch did result in some backlash from the craft beer community. Craft beer enthusiasts often value independent and locally-owned breweries, and any association with a larger, multinational corporation can raise concerns about the integrity and authenticity of the brand. This is a sentiment that I have personally witnessed in my interactions with fellow beer enthusiasts.
However, it is important to approach this situation with an open mind. While some may view the partnership as a compromise of independence, others may see it as a strategic move to expand distribution and reach a wider audience. Ultimately, the decision to partner with Anheuser-Busch was made by the founders of Wicked Weed, and they believed it was the right step for their business.
Wicked Weed Brewing entered into a partnership with the Anheuser-Busch family of craft breweries in 2017. While this partnership raised questions about ownership and independence, it is important to understand that Wicked Weed's original founders still have a significant level of control over their brand and recipes. The partnership allows them to access additional resources and expertise while maintaining their own identity. The decision to enter into this partnership may have caused some controversy within the craft beer community, but it ultimately remains a personal choice made by the founders of Wicked Weed.