Zoo Atlanta‘s signature Memorial Day Weekend festival, Brew at the Zoo, will debut the exclusive Willie B. Legacy Lager developed by SweetWater Brewery in collaboration with the zoo. The limited-time brew is a tribute to the legendary late Willie B. and his recently-born grandson, Willie B. III. The festival will offer unique brew samplings, live music, wildlife viewing, and more. Tickets for Brew at the Zoo, featuring over 30 participating breweries and cideries, typically sell out quickly, and advance tickets are recommended. The event is only available for guests aged 21 and up. Tickets can be purchased on Zoo Atlanta’s website.
The Debut of Willie B. Legacy Lager: A New Chapter in Atlanta’s Brewing History
Atlanta’s brewing scene has been rising for the past decade, with new breweries popping up in neighborhoods across the city—however, one new addition generating a lot of buzz: Willie B. Legacy Lager.
Here’s everything you need to know about Atlanta’s latest brew.
The Story Behind Willie B. Legacy Lager
Willie B. was a gorilla at Zoo Atlanta who became a beloved figure in the city before passing away in 2000. His legacy lives on through a new partnership between the zoo and Atlanta-based brewery Monday Night Brewing.
According to the brewery, the beer is meant to capture the spirit of Willie B. and celebrate his impact on the community. “We wanted to create something approachable, enjoyable, and could be shared by all,” notes Monday Night co-founder Joel Iverson.
The Flavor Profile
So, what can you expect from a glass of Willie B. Legacy Lager? According to Iverson, the beer is crisp and refreshing, with a light golden color and moderate sweetness. It’s made with German malts and a blend of hops that give it a hint of citrus flavor.
The Beer’s Debut
After months of anticipation, Willie B. Legacy Lager was finally released on August 28th. As expected, it generated a lot of excitement among beer lovers and Zoo Atlanta fans alike.
At the release party, attendees could sample the beer and learn more about the project. There was even a photo booth where fans could take pictures with a cardboard cutout of Willie B. himself.
What’s Next for Willie B. Legacy Lager?
According to Monday Night, the beer will be available on draft at a limited number of locations around the city in the coming weeks. However, they plan to release it in cans later this year.
In addition to bringing attention to a beloved figure in Atlanta’s history, the project supports Zoo Atlanta’s conservation efforts. A portion of the proceeds from every can sold will go to the zoo to support their work with gorillas and other endangered species.
All in all, Willie B. Legacy Lager is an excellent example of how local businesses can come together to create something that’s not only delicious but also meaningful to their community. And if the initial response is any indication, it’s sure to become a beloved fixture in Atlanta’s brewing scene.
