Sun King Brewing. Indianapolis, IN
Our last encounter with this crew was on a Sunday in Indianapolis, back then the brewery was typically closed that day. Our group, about thirty deep were in town to hear Garrett Oliver and Randy Mosher give keynote speeches at a Beer Writers conference.
After a brewhouse tour the Sun King team proceeded to bless us with pours of Mai Pappy, a Maibock aged in 23yr Pappy Van Winkle barrels… instantly I became a fan.
A recent change in Indiana state law and an upcoming expansion mean that Indianapolis’ largest brewer will sell beer statewide for the first time in their history. It’s not uncommon for brewers to challenge antiquated laws that deter their ability to freely distribute beer. The changes in the Hoosier State will allow breweries like Sun King to go from 30,000 to a capacity of 90,000 barrels annually.
Sun King’s statewide offerings
In seven short years co-founders Clay Robinson and Dave Colt have created 100 different beers and racked up a devastating 24 medals in GABF + World Beer Cup competition. This includes their 2011 exploits where the team took home eight (4 Gold, 3 Silver, 1 Bronze) medals in one year.
Here’s a look at some of the offerings you can find in 24 counties across in Indiana. Sun King’s reach now includes over 200 bars, restaurants and liquor stores. Cities like Gary, In are only 25 miles from downtown Chicago.
Friday, March 25th was Sun King Day. At statewide celebration that included food pairings and tap takeovers with proceeds going to local charitable organizations.
-Nkosi
Hot Rod Lincoln, Barrel Aged Imperial Stout
Sun King’s Reserve Hot Rod Lincoln
10% A variant Russian Imperial Style Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels *seasonal, limited offering
Wee Mac
Scottish Ale 5.3%
Osiris
West Coast Style Pale Ale 5.6%
Sunlight
Cream Ale 5.3%
2015 Great American Beer Festival Gold Medal winning Blonde Ale
Ring Of Dingle
Classic Irish Dry Stout 4.6%
2011 Great American Beer Festival Gold Medal wining Irish Style Dry Stout
*Editors Note: Nowadays the brewery is open on Sundays at the Downtown Indy location 1-6p and from 11a-8p Sundays at the Sun Kin Fishers Tap Room + Small Batch Brewery
