Ninkasi Adds Virginia, Maryland & D.C. Distribution

Ninkasi Begins Year-round Distribution to D.C., Maryland and Virginia This October

EUGENE, Ore.—Following the opening of fulltime distribution to New York, Ninkasi Brewing Company, an independent craft brewer based in Eugene, Ore., will begin distribution to D.C., Maryland and Virginia starting October 2015. In partnership with craft beer wholesaler, Sheehan Family Companies, the craft brewery looks forward to expanding its East Coast distribution to these new markets.

“This region has been a strong craft market out east for a long time, and it’s only getting stronger,” says Nikos Ridge, Ninkasi CEO and co-founder. “The opportunity to enter this craft-loving market with a great partner was a key influence on opening distribution full-time.”

Beginning next month, Ninkasi’s lineup of beers will be distributed year-round throughout D.C., Maryland and Virginia facilitated by two Sheehan Family Companies distributors:Legends Ltd. Distributing (D.C. and Maryland) and Specialty Beverage of Virginia(Virginia).

“We look forward to a great partnership with Ninkasi in our Maryland and D.C. markets,” says Erin Tyler, Legends Limited general manager. “Ninkasi’s commitment to quality, innovation, community, and culture are all things that we look for in a supplier partnership.”

“Specialty Beverage is excited and proud to partner with Ninkasi, a world class brewery,” explains Seth Berkowitz, Specialty Beverage sales manager. “We look forward to a bright future for both Ninkasi and Specialty Beverage.”

Founded in 2006 by Jamie Floyd and Nikos Ridge, Ninkasi first began full-time distribution to the East Coast this month with the opening of distribution to New York. Its year-round Flagship Series includes Total Domination India Pale Ale, Tricerahops Double India Pale Ale, Dawn of the Red India Red Ale, Lux Helles Lager, Oatis Oatmeal Stout, and its counterpart, Vanilla Oatis Oatmeal Stout.

Already, Ninkasi has witnessed the success of its brand in the market by participating in key craft-focused events through the Brewers Association including SAVOR: An American Craft Beer & Food Experience, and hosting tastings at highly-regarded craft retailers. Kicking-off its presence in D.C., craft beer fans can get a first taste of Ninkasi at Museum Moonshine, an educational and social after-hours event at the National Air and Space Museum on Sunday, Sept. 27.