Goose Hunting

The Chicago Tribune reports that Anheuser-Busch in their continuing efforts to get a piece of the steadily growing craft brew market is likely to buy 35% of Goose Island and control of their distribution. If Goose lets AB in, will they be able to maintain their integrity as the one of the US's most respected breweries?

Since I became aware of the Chicago brewery I have been increasingly impressed with their integrity in brewing styles. They regularly win medals in a variety of competitions for many different styles. The Beer Judge Certification Program, the styles standard for the American beer industry, names Goose Island brews eleven times in their style guidelines - no small distinction. For my money, their Goose Island’s Honker’s Ale is one of the best American brewed bitters and their India Pale Ale is a feat of hops worthy of the highest praise.

So how can this brewery with such an incredible track record of amazing brews marry Anheuser-Busch? With AB constantly watching the bottom line and making increasing demands on Goose’s production to match their marketing efforts, how long will it take for Goose to have to compromise their recipes? How long before AB convinces them to start cutting the malt – and therefore the flavor - with cheap rice?

I hope I’m wrong. I hope that somehow Goose can maintain the integrity that’s made them a brewery worth the attention of the bean counters at AB. But I really doubt it.