Genesee Brews its First Beer for Watkins Glen, Asks Fans to Name It

Watkins Glen, NY – Genesee Beer is looking to its loyal fans and racing fans alike to name its first-ever Watkins Glen-themed beer to be released and available only at Watkins Glen International and surrounding bars and restaurants this summer. Fans can choose from five options or suggest their own names:

  1. Esses Ale -- in honor of the Glen’s famed “S” curves and grandstand 
  2. Guardrail Ale -- named for the Glen’s distinctive blue railing
  3. Bogladyte Blonde -- to honor the denizens of the famed Bog
  4. Road Course Ringer Ale -- for those racers that turn right and left
  5. Bus Stop Blonde -- in reference to the Glen’s famed chicane

The beer, a traditional American Ale with a light crisp finish, will be available on draft at the Glen in June.

Genesee Beer thrives on the input of its fans. The beers we scale up at the Brewery are our fan’s favorites from our tasting bar at the Genesee Brew House. We are constantly listening to our most loyal customers and incorporating their feedback into our beer and brand plans,” said Janine Schoos, Genesee brand director. “For our first Watkins Glen International commemorative brew, we’re looking to our loyal Genny fans for their take from the start. We want to hear what the people who will be drinking the beer want it to be called.”

“We are excited to grow this amazing partnership with Genesee in creating a unique-themed beer for The Glen,” Watkins Glen International President Michael Printup said. “Fans are first at WGI and we welcome the opportunity to let their voices be heard. We have several choices featuring iconic images, themes and traditions that make Watkins Glen International the premier road racing facility and truly Genesee Country.”

Fans who are 21 years or older can participate by visiting www.theglen.com/beertheglen or @GeneseeBrewery on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook to cast their vote or suggest an original name for the new brew. The team at Genesee will consider all options and choose the best name for the light and refreshing American Ale.

The beer will be available on draft only at Watkins Glen International and in select bars and restaurants across “Genesee Country” throughout the 2020 racing season. The beer commemorates Genesee’s relationship with the Glen that dates back more than 70 years. For decades, fans have made Genesee and Genny Light a race day tradition. Last year, Genesee recognized that by signing back on with the Glen as its Official Beer. This year marks the second year of the sponsorship and activation deal that includes summer long fun at one of the most authentic and storied tracks in the racing world today.

About Genesee Brewing Company

Established in 1878, the Genesee Brewery—New York state’s oldest brewery—makes the classic Genesee line of beers and the Original Honey Brown Lager, as well as Seagram’s Escapes. The Genesee Brewery also manufactures beer and other alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages under contracts on behalf of other companies. For more information, visit www.geneseebeer.com