Kona Bringing Magic Sands Saison Draft To CA & FL

Kailua-Kona, Hawaii (April 29, 2016) – Tropical island ingredients, craft beer wizardry and a

distinctive blend of flavors is casting a spell over pubs throughout California and Florida with

Kona Brewing Co.’s crisp, refreshing Magic Sands Saison – now available to enjoy.

The saison is named after one of Hawaii Island’s most intriguing stretches of sand known as

Magic Sands (also called Laʻaloa). During the winter, the beach often “disappears” when the

waves wash over the small white-sand parcel. Like the beach, Magic Sands Saison is equally

popular but only for those lucky enough to enjoy this enchanting craft beer while it lasts.

Kona Brewing Co. is sending Magic Sands (ABV

5.5%, 18 IBU) to the Golden and Sunshine States

because of their penchant for a laid-back approach

to life and affinity for well-made beer. The beer is

reaching the shores just as the weather warms and

beer drinkers seek an easy-drinking brew that goes

down as delightfully as the setting sun. That’s

because whichever state they happen to find

themselves in, this beer miraculously transports

them to Hawaii – not the place, but the state of mind. Where cruising is elevated to an art

form and relaxing is a well-deserved reward. When you order a Magic Sands Saison, you’re

saying, “I’m ready to slow down and savor this moment.”

For this special release, Kona’s traditional farmhouse style ale with Keitt mangoes and French

Saison yeast conjures a uniquely Hawaiian twist of citrus and spice flavors with a touch of

tartness. Made with Millennium, Hallertauer, and Citra hops, Magic Sands Saison pairs

powerfully well with fresh fish and light meats, like chicken, and its crisp finish presents a

bewitching compliment to a strawberry spinach salad.

“Fruit-forward brews are a big hit here in the Islands, so we thought beer lovers on opposite

coasts would enjoy them just as much,” said Sandi Shriver, head of Kona Brewing Co.’s

brewery operations. “This beer’s distinctive mango flavor and citrusy aroma have a magical

effect after a long day at the beach, on the water or anywhere you’re kicking back to unwind.”

Magic Sands is the latest beer in Kona Brewing’s Lanai Series – a collection of island-inspired

small batch beers released for a limited time in draft only on the Mainland. Each specialty

beer was handpicked by the Kona Brewing team to showcase the unique flavors of Hawaii and

to share the brews that locals reach for when they kick back and relax.

Magic Sands replaces the previous Lanai Series beer, Da Grind Buzz Coffee Stout (ABV 8.3%,

51 IBU). Da Grind Buzz is made with 100 percent Kona Coffee grown on Hawaii Island’s

Cornwell Estate. The stout is bold in flavor and alcohol content and features a deep black

color. The brew’s assertive maltiness is balanced by liberal amounts of hops (Apollo,

Centennial, Northern Brewer, Cascade) added throughout the brewing process.

Milestones/Stewardship

In 2014, the company achieved a milestone in its home state, selling more than 1 million cases

in the Islands for the first time in its history. Kona Brewing has become one of the top craft

beer brands in the world, while remaining steadfastly committed to its home market through a

strong focus on innovation, sustainability and community outreach.

In early 2016, Kona Brewing broke ground on its new $20 million brewing and canning facility

in Kailua-Kona that will be capable of producing 100,000 barrels (BBLs) annually. The brewery

will feature a state-of-the-art water recycling system with the ability to generate 50 percent of

its own energy. The new brewery is scheduled to open in 2018.