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That was a primary reason why MSU, originally
called the Agricultural College of the State of Montana
when it was established as a land-grant institution in
1893, decided to license its Bobcat brand and partner
with the brewery — one of 53 craft breweries now
operating in the state — to make the drink.
"MSU has always had a special bond with our state's
agricultural producers," said MSU President Waded
Cruzado. "We celebrate that bond as we reflect on our
University's history and our contributions."
Golden Bobcat Pale Ale made its first public
appearance at MSU's Birthday Bash event, which
featured music, activities and food at the MSU
campus as the main event of the university's year-long
anniversary celebration.
Golden Bobcat will be available across the state on
draft as well as in cans featuring 125th anniversary
artwork designed by Kelsey Dzintars, a graphic
designer who graduated from MSU in 2009 with
honors and is now a professional designer.
Johnson said producing the commemorative beer
for statewide distribution is a big move for his small
brewery, and one that has personal significance
for him as he applies his MSU business degree to a
newfound passion. But he is also excited about the
beer itself.
"We wanted to hit a
home run with this," he said.
"People are going to love it."
Smoot Honey Company co-owner Mark Jensen
adds honey to a batch of Golden Bobcat Pale Ale.
MSU photo by Kelly Gorham
