Chicago Cubs: Goose Island to unveil Wrigley Field-themed beer

The Chicago Cubs, Wrigley Field and Chicago-based Goose Island brewery expanded their partnership this week, announcing a Cubs-themed craft beer – the 1060 Wit.

The brew, a ‘Belgian wheat ale with hints of orange peel and coriander,’ will be unveiled on April 10 at Wrigley Field. The Chicago Cubs open the home slate against the Los Angeles Dodgers in an NLCS rematch. Fans, who are already paying near-record ticket prices, will now have even more to look forward to on Opening Night.

Cubs president of business operations Crane Kenney expressed his enthusiasm for the project in an interview with DNA Info Friday.

"“A summer afternoon at Wrigley Field has become synonymous with enjoying a cold beer under the hot sun during a baseball game. We were thrilled to work with Goose Island to introduce the light and refreshing 1060 Wit to reflect this favorite pastime.”"

According to Goose Island, there are just three places the entire city where the brew will be available. That includes Wrigley Field and the Goose Island taproom. The Goose Island Brewpub, currently undergoing renovations, will also feature the brew.

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A familiar face expands at Wrigley

Goose Island has emerged as one of the premier craft beer suppliers at the Friendly Confines in recent years.

The Chicago-land brewer is working exclusively with Wrigley Field to create 1060 Wit for the upcoming season. Goose Island beers, including 312 Urban Wheat, IPA, Four Star Pils, Green Line, Matilda and Sofie, make up Wrigley’s craft selection.

The company came to the Friendly Confines in 2014 in a deal with Anheuser-Busch. Anheuser bought Goose Island for $38.8 million in 2011.

Goose Island R&D Manager Mike Siegel said the company is proud to create a beer that celebrates “Wrigley Field—one of baseball’s most iconic ballparks.”

"“Fans will notice the beer gets its name from the ballpark’s address, something I committed to memory at an early age when I visited Wrigley Field with my father and grandfather. The beer is inspired by traditional Belgian Wits, using a lot of unmalted wheat along with orange peel and coriander. It’s lightly fruity and a touch spicy with low bitterness that is a natural fit for the ballpark and refreshing on hot Chicago days.”"

A continuing trend

The organization has made improving food and drink options a top priority under the 1060 Project. Countless new concession options came to Wrigley Field during the first part of the renovation.

Specialized vendors, such as Hot Dougs, also took hold beyond the ivy-covered walls. In addition to these sausages, countless other options are now on the table, as well.

"Among the new drink options will be Chicago Dog Bloody Mary, classic Bloody Mary with a celery salt and poppy seed rim, skewer with a mini Vienna Beef Chicago dog served in a souvenir mason jar."

Beer and baseball are about as American as it gets. Maybe apple pie is a close second. Under the Ricketts family, the Chicago Cubs have shown a particular skill in capitalizing on opportunities. This is no different.

Next: Home opener tickets at record highs

This includes expanding major corporate partnerships, namely the Legacy Partners at Wrigley Field. Additional projects, including the Wrigley Field plaza and other nearby developments, continue to add revenue as well.

Few organizations can say they have their own beer. Starting in early April, however, the Chicago Cubs find themselves on such a list.