Better than an ice bucket

Hoist a pint this month for a good cause. Ales for ALS beers are being brewed across the country this summer, including those from several Madison breweries. Proceeds go to research into ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also called Lou Gehrig’s disease). Alt Brew, the Great Dane Pub and Brewery and Karben4 Brewing are joining more than 240 breweries throughout the U.S. to make a beer using hops that were specifically blended for Ales for ALS beers. The hops are offered by Yakima Chief Hops, a major grower in the Pacific Northwest, who donates them to breweries who agree to give $1/pint from any beer made with them. Breweries can use them to make whatever style they want.

In May the Great Dane released its beer, a 6.9% ABV hazy IPA. This month Karben4 will release its beer, a 6.5% ABV West Coast IPA.

Alt Brew made a gluten-free 6.7% ABV cold IPA. That’s an IPA fermented cold to sharpen the flavors, especially the hops. It can also clarify and brighten the beer’s color and body.

“This is a great way to tie together beer and charity, and we’ll make an event out of it,” says Alt Brew owner Trevor Easton. A release party for Alt Brew’s Ice Bucket! Cold IPA is scheduled July 19 from 2-6 p.m.with music by The Currach and food from Mishqui Peruvian.

The beer’s name refers to the 2014 ALS research awareness campaign, the Ice Bucket Challenge, that involved pouring a bucket of ice cubes and water over your own head while challenging others to do the same and/or to donate to ALS research. Worldwide that effort has raised over $200 million.

The beer will be served in an ice bucket, should drinkers want to engage in any retro ice dumping.

Alt Brew also packaged the beer in 12-ounce bottles for sale at the brewery ($14/four-pack, with $2/each being donated to ALS).

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