Lest we forget, Cincinnati is home to the largest Oktoberfest outside of Munich.
And Greg Hardman, owner and CEO of Cincinnati-based
Christian Moerlein Brewing Co, is playing a pivotal role in reminding America of Cincinnati's illustrious history of engagement with Germany's most beloved tipple.
On December 30 Hardman brought Little Kings Cream Ale into the fold, adding another smash hit regional brew to Cincinnati's roster.
“We finally did it. We have finally consolidated the ownership of some of Cincinnati’s historic beer brands under a single, local owner,” Hardman says.
After graduating from Ohio University, Hardman cultivated his passion for beer and racked up 25 years of experience in the brewing industry, during which time he was busy, to say the least.
After 18 years advancing through the ranks of
Warsteiner Importers Agency, Hardman made a few ambitious, wildly successful moves: buying Christian Moerlein in 2004, followed by Hudepohl 14K, Hudy Delight and Burger in 2006.
And further growth is in the cards.
The explosion of "retro" brews like Hudepohl's Pabst has created a promising niche market for regional brews like Little Kings.
Alongside consolidating these brands under the Christian Moerlein name, Hardman just announced his intention to launch Moerlein Lagers and Ales Craft Brand Division for the beers specific to Moerlein. A separate group will churn out the Little Kings and Hudepohl labels.
"Stay tuned, we only have just begun," Hardman says.
To learn more about the Christian Moerlein group of breweries, visit
here.
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