Lagers Abound

Anheuser-Busch is at it again, reinventing the wheel with their "Great American Lager." In an effort to woo British drinkers, assumingly to distinguish themselves from the laddish Stella crowd (or perhaps compete more directly?), they are launching a new campaign to improve their image.

Drawing on a rich history and tradition, the brewing giant will be offering 50,000 unlabeled samples to unwitting consumers, who will be provided with tasting information as well. After sending a text message to the number on the bottle, they will be informed that it's Budweiser they're drinking.

But that's not all. Apparently Missouri legislators wish to make Budweiser the official "state beer." And Matthew McConaughey wants to name his kid Bud. Wanna hear my take on it? Sure, have at it. Both sound pretty lame to me, and I'm no McConaughey fan by any stretch of the imagination, but I won't rain on anybody's parade, so go for it.

The only thing non-Bud related this morning is Spanish brewer Alhambra is attempting to market its Reserva 1925 as the perfect beer for Mediterranean-style meals. Being an avid consumer of most any cuisine from the Med, I've got to say my interest is piqued, even though this seems to be targeted for the UK market, and Spanish restaurants in particular. For a light-bodied and malty lager, this might be a great accompaniment to these styles of food, especially with those free Andalusian olives they're giving away. I'm a sucker for a good olive, and even a medicore beer to pair with it would get a second chance from me.