McKenzie River Corporation
McKenzie River Corporation
|
| Industry |
Beverages |
| Founded |
1987 |
| Headquarters |
San Francisco, CA, USA |
| Owner(s) |
Minott Wessinger |
McKenzie River Corporation is a beverage marketing firm based in San Francisco, CA. Founded in 1987 by Minott Wessinger with the help of his father, Fred Wessinger, the McKenzie River Corporation has launched a number of successful beverage products to the US market.[1]
History
Minott Wessinger began the McKenzie River Corporation, previously known as McKenzie River Partners, to follow in the footsteps of this great-great grandfather, Henry Weinhard, the Pacific Northwest brewing pioneer.[2] Wessinger is a part of a family tradition of brewing which began in 1856.[3]
Products
- St. Ides Premium Malt Liquor – St. Ides is a malt liquor that was introduced to the US market in 1987. It contains 8.2% ABV (alcohol by volume). A number of St. Ides Special Brews were also introduced in a variety of fruit flavors. St. Ides was endorsed by celebrity artists and rappers including, Ice Cube, Wu-Tang Clan, Dr. Dre, and Snoop Dogg, among others. Currently, St. Ides is manufactured by Pabst Brewing Co.
- Sparks – Sparks was one of the first alcoholic energy drinks to enter the US beverage market, launching in early 2001. Sparks has 6% ABV and is also available in higher alcohol variations; Sparks Plus (7% ABV) and Sparks Red (8% ABV).[4]
- Steel Reserve High Gravity Lager – Steel Reserve was introduced in early 2000 and was the first “High Gravity” lager. It still maintains its leadership position in the segment.[5]
- Howling Monkey Energizing Elixir – Howling Monkey is a caffeinated energy drink that was introduced 2007. Howling Monkey was one of the first energy drinks to be offered in a cola flavor.[6]
Miller Purchase
On August 14, 2006, Miller Brewing announced it had completed the purchase of Sparks and Steel Reserve brands from McKenzie River Corp. for $215 million. Miller had been producing both products prior to this purchase.[8]
References
External links