A two-year effort to develop and distribute a new beer will be celebrated on Aug. 10 when the Big Man’s Brewfest takes place from noon to 7 p.m. at the Matoloking Road Alehouse, 247 Mantoloking Road, Brick Township.
The Big Man’s Brew Hazy Groove IPA (India Pale Ale) will be introduced as part of the festivities, said Barb Deitz Caprioni, the vice president and marketing event planner for Big Man’s Brew.
Caprioni, a native of Manalapan who now resides in Jackson, traced the effort to create a new beer to April 2017 when she read an article about craft beers. She had an association with musician Nick Clemons, the son of famed saxophonist Clarence “Big Man” Clemons, and a new venture was born.
“We were meeting at my house about twice a month so the team we had put together could review in person all the contacts and design ideas literally in front of us. So much was happening so quickly. It was a beautiful thing,” Caprioni said in a July 31 interview.
“There are many rules and regulations to follow when it comes to brewing beer and it took two years to get to where we are today, with the help and support of an amazing group of dedicated people, fundraising events and shareholders who believe in continuing the legacy of the ‘Big Man,’ Clarence Clemons,” she said.
The late Clemons had four sons, Nick, Charles, Christopher and Jarod, and Caprioni said three are involved in the venture. Flying Fish is the brewer of Hazy Groove IPA.
In a press release, Erv Frederick, the CEO of Big Man’s Brew, said, “Our flagship beer, inspired by Clarence Clemons, the original ‘Big Man,’ is brewed to capture his radiance, originality, spirit and enthusiasm for living life to the fullest. One refreshing taste and you’ll once again be inspired by Clarence Clemons’ passion to live big.”
Big Man’s Brew Hazy Groove IPA is an unfiltered Hazy IPA with Citra and Mosaic hops, a citrus flavor and 6% Alcohol By Volume, according to the press release.
“By launching our flagship brew, we hope to celebrate Clarence Clemons’ life and legacy and connect with like-minded people seeking hope and joy over cynicism,” Frederick said.
Entertainment at the Big Man’s Brewfest will be provided by the Eddie Testa Band, with special guest J.T. Bowen, plus the Kenny Sadowski Acoustic Project and surprise guests.
There will be food, drink specials and giveaways. Admission is free and the event will take place rain or shine.
The long and winding road to bring Big Man’s Brew to the public has been a challenge, Caprioni said. She said all are welcome to attend the Aug. 10 event in Brick Township and to celebrate a milestone for local entrepreneurship.
For more information, visit bigmansbrew.com