All-Kansas beer hits local shelves

HOLTON (KSNT) - A few Kansans are using a new beer law to support each others' businesses.

Thanks to a new Kansas law allowing microbreweries to sell directly to other businesses, Holton's Willcott Brewing will start distributing to public vendors across northeast Kansas.

Willcott brewing makes beer with all locally-sourced ingredients, and it's hitting shelves near you.

"In 1874 the turkey red wheat was first established in the state of kansas and that is why we call it 1874," Jennifer Willcott with Willcott Brewing said.

She said it's that unique Kansas wheat that gives the beer its flavor.

The Kansas farmer that supplies the barley for Willcott said it's difficult to get it just right, but the effort is well worth it.

"It really has to be a very fine-tuned product so that these brewers can use it to make wonderful beer," Lance Tischhauser, Kansas Malt Company Farmer said.

Willcott's first delivery since the law change was to a grocery store just down the street, Cecil K's Hometown Market.

Chad Bontrager, the owner of Cecil K's Hometown Market said Willcott's 1874 beer is now one of about 200 locally made products on his shelves.

"Being a locally owned and operated grocery store, we really appreciate doing business with other local folks and bringing those products to the people in the community in a way that makes it really easy for them," Bontrager said.

A local beer, made with local ingredients, sold at local grocers.

"It's really quite interesting how often we forget about the farmers and the small business owners. I think today marks a time in history," Willcott siad. "A time that we really need to take focus on what small business are contributing to our State."

In addition to Holton, Willcott brewing told 27 News you can soon expect to see 1874 popping up in Topeka and Leavenworth.

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