Busch Is Back to Brewing–William K Busch Brewing Kräftig

For the first time since InBev bought out Anheuser-Busch in 2008, a Busch name is back in the St Louis brewing business.  William K Busch (aka Billy Busch)—son of August Busch Jr. Billy was previously not involved much in the family business so it’s surprising to see two new labels coming out of the William K Busch Brewing Co.  Looks like these first two beers will initially be brewed by City Brewery in La Crosse, WI.  The first releases appear to be Kräftig and Kräftig Light.  Both will be available in 12oz bottles with regular Kräftig being kegged as well.  No real shock that they appear to be lager-style…and for those wondering, Kräftig means strong and robust so stay tuned.

UPDATE 11/29: According to the St Louis Today website, Busch is aiming to produce 2-million barrels per year with a new brewery to be built within 3 years….and may be aiming at Bud, Miller, Coors size brewing.

“

Kräftig has already brewed 7,200 barrels, or about 100,000 cases. It aims to brew 2 million barrels every year, the bulk at a brewing facility it plans to build in St. Louis within three years. Hoffmeister, the company’s chief executive, mentions "4 or 5 million barrels" as if that were almost a given.”