Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/488317
14 / the tasting panel / april 2015 THE MESSAGE 14 / the tasting panel / april 2015 Brief Encounters Whether THE TASTING PANEL goes to the brand execs or the brands call us, there is an abundance of news to report, from the latest releases to behind-the-scenes experiences with some of the world's most influential importers, winemakers, distillers . . . well, you name it. We may not have enough pages in each issue to devote as much attention as we would like to each person whose path we cross, but please note that if it's in the publication, we deem it noteworthy. —Meridith May, Publisher & Editorial Director THE MESSAGE Heineken's Mark Smitkin with just introduced Newcastle Vikings Amber Ale at Buffalo Wild Wings in Manhattan. PHOTO: DAVID HANDSCHUH On the No(r)se N ewcastle VIKINGS Amber Ale made its Broadway debut at Buffalo Wild Wings in Times Sqaure, where members of the press reviewed the limited-edition brew concocted by Newcastle and the History Channel. The custom-draught beer, the second in Newcastle's Collaboration Series, coincided with the launch of the third season of the popular show on History, Vikings, and will be available in select bars in ten states. The full-bodied amber beer owes its color to a full blend of roasted malts with a slightly bit tip from aromatic German Hallertau Magnum hops. Newcastle VIKINGS Amber Ale comes from the 1340 Brand Brewery, the oldest brewery in the Netherlands. Brand is in the southern-most part of the country, where actual Vikings are said to have roamed between 800 and 900 A.D.—Lana Bortolot