Baldor launches brewery collaboration

Baldor Specialty Foods will share their unique, high-end, seasonal produce items with brew masters at Bronx Brewery in New York City to create a new, never-been-done-before series of beers using rare, exotic ingredients. The ingredients range from sumo citrus and Szechuan buttons to fennel pollen. Baldor said it is the first time a food distributor has formally collaborated with a craft-brewing company.

As part of the collaboration, the two high-profile Bronx companies drafted a schedule of beers based on the seasonality of fruits, vegetables and spices for brewing. The Bronx Brewery plans to release eight -10 beers throughout the coming year as part of their B-Tracks Series of experimental, specialty beers.

The first four beers being rolled out are:

• Yokozuna Wit – A Belgian-style witbier named after the highest rank in sumo wrestling, that plays off the authentic sumo citrus brewed in this beer. The sumo citrus and added Szechuan buttons add a spicy, tingling sensation. Available now.
• Heavy Fennel – A dry Irish stout differentiated with the use of fennel pollen; a potent ingredient with notes of licorice, citrus, and marshmallow which provides a unique creamy ale. Release date: March 7.
• Don’t Kaffir The Reaper – A gose style beer made from kaffir limes, which are known for being a smaller and drier citrus variety, and pink Himalayan Sea Salt, which join to give this heavy brew an authentic sour and salty taste. Release date: April 3.
• My Berry Own IPA – A Northeast IPA made from a seasonal pick of Harry’s Berries world renowned strawberries. These super juicy berries from California create big sweetness and a beautiful red haze in this Northeast style IPA. Release date: April 23.

“As we expand our family of beers, we’re always on the lookout for new and unusual tastes to experiment with,” says Damian Brown, President of The Bronx Brewery.

The B-Tracks series of beers will be available at The Bronx Brewery tasting room located at 856 136th Street in the South Bronx. The tasting room is open seven days a week.