Union Weekly ASI - California State University, Long Beach

Beyond Blue Moon
In 2005, Molson Brewing Company merged with Coors. In 2007, Miller Brewing Company and Molson Coors merged operations in the US. Finally, in 2008, Anheuser Bush merged with InBev. What does this mean for you? If you are buying a beer at your nearest grocer, chances are you are feeding one of two companies, and buying the same shit. The state of the world beer market is fairly abysmal if you start to look at it. These two conglomerates own such a major share of the market that it might as well be a monopoly. From the faux craft abomination that is Blue Moon to King Cobra, it all feeds the same ugly beast. Their influence on grocery store chains, let alone government regulation, is staggering, coupled with their ability to push for legislation that makes brewing and distribution difficult for small local craft breweries. Luckily, independent craft breweries have been exploding all over the country in the past few years, reaching heights of popularity and dedication never before thought possible. People are beginning to respect beer the same way they respect wine. So here at the Union Weekly, we decided to plunge in and explore the endless depths of flavor offered by these smaller breweries. We picked up 14 beers from all over the country ranging from the super light pilsners to the darkest, roastiest stouts. During the process, we explored the art being put out by breweries lik...