Big Grove Brewery partners with Patagonia Provisions to launch Kernza Lager

Partnership on lager an effort to promote sustainable brewing practices, address climate crisis

The Patagonia logo advertising Kernza Lager adorns a tap handle at Big Grove Brewery.
The Patagonia Provisions logo advertising Kernza Lager adorns a tap handle at Big Grove Brewery. CREDIT BIG GROVE BREWERY

Big Grove Brewery has partnered with Patagonia Provisions, the food and beverage division of Patagonia, to introduce Kernza Lager. The new beer is crafted from organic ingredients in an effort to support sustainable farming practices.

According to a release, Kernza, a perennial grain, presents a significant opportunity for the brewing industry. The grain contributes to soil stabilization, requires less tilling, and enhances soil organic matter and water retention.

Research indicates that Kernza can sequester more carbon in the soil compared to traditional annual grains, making it an environmentally beneficial choice for agriculture, the release claimed; and when used in brewing, Kernza imparts a subtle, nutty flavor to the beer.

As part of a brewery partnership program, Big Grove joins other independent craft breweries across the U.S. in creating lager-style beers using Regenerative Organic Certified Kernza and organic ingredients.

This collaboration seeks to highlight the potential of Kernza and similar regenerative crops to influence agricultural practices. The initiative aims to inspire more farmers to embrace sustainable methods, fostering a more resilient food system for the future.

“While we continue to produce high quality beer, our drinkers are increasingly seeking lighter, and organic options that are transparent in what they offer and they know contribute to environmental sustainability.” said Bryan Farrell, director of marketing at Big Grove. “We are in an agricultural production state, this is important not just to us, but the communities we are in.”

Big Grove and Patagonia Provisions are collaborating to promote the use of regenerative and organic ingredients in beer, aiming to address the climate crisis.

“We are excited to partner with Big Grove Brewery in this joint effort.” said Paul Lightfoot, Patagonia Provisions’ general manager. “They are passionate and dedicated to responsible brewing and business practices, guided by core values and principles that align with our mission. Big Grove Brewery is helping lead the industry toward a brighter future and we’re proud to collaborate with them.”

Big Grove Brewery’s Kernza Lager will be available on draft at all four of its taprooms in Cedar Rapids, Des Moines, Iowa City, and Solon starting Nov. 1. Limited-edition Patagonia and Big Grove merchandise will also be available for purchase in the taprooms.