Global Beer Network, the exclusive U.S. importer for 10 award-winning breweries, is celebrating its 20th anniversary by throwing a nationwide series of parties and benefit events. The company and its fans are marking the occasion with a first-ever traveling Belgian Beer Chalice.
Global Beer Network was founded in 1994 in Santa Barbara, Calif., by Johnny Fincioen and Claudine Van Massenhove. Steve Villani and Cliff Lusso acquired the company in 2007, eventually relocating the company to the Boston area.
“When Global Beer Network was founded in 1994, the beer landscape here was very different,” says Steve Villani, president of Global Beer Network. “Through years of hard work, education and resolve, inspired by Johnny and Claudine’s passion, Global Beer continues to offer more than 60 Belgian beer labels to fans in the U.S., including the popular Gulden Draak, Wittekerke, Petrus and Piraat.”
Starting in May, tap takeovers, beer tastings and special events will sweep across the country, culminating in a supreme ceremonial tasting in Boston, the current home to Global Beer Network.
In the spirit of giving, Global Beer is donating $10,000 to Pints for Prostates, a grassroots campaign that funds education and awareness efforts to help fight prostate cancer. Participating pubs will match the fundraising efforts for a total donation of $20,000. Founded in 2008 by beer writer and prostate cancer survivor Rick Lyke, Pints for Prostates raises awareness among men about the importance of regular health screenings and early detection by making appearances at beer events, social networking and pro bono advertising.
“We appreciate Global Beer Network's generous commitment to help us reach men through the universal language of beer,” says Rick Lyke, founder, Pints for Prostates. "It is exciting to be paired with top Belgian beers and take our message to great beer bars around the country."
Pubs across the nation will hold events to mark the occasion, including celebrations to welcome a traveling chalice that will make an appearance at every participating location.
“Belgian beer fans will have an unprecedented opportunity to participate in local events as the celebratory three-liter chalice and the donation cask for Pints for Prostates arrive in each city,” adds Villani.
