Celebrating 50 Years of Cooperation

Our good neighbors at the Lexington Co-op Markets are a community-owned business with a purpose. With a set of “ends statements which define how the world will be better because of the Co-op’s values and work” that are interpreted through the everyday actions of  “happy, knowledgeable people”, “local, sustainable food”, “co-op economy”, and “sustainability”, the Co-op have been working to edge the world closer to their values since 1971.

During the spring of 2021 the Lexington Co-op celebrated 50 years of member-owned and community-focused operation in Buffalo, NY.

When we were asked to join them in celebrating the Markets’ golden anniversary with a commemorative beer, we of course answered YES, with equal parts excitement and humility.

A Beer Two Years in the Making

After aging almost two years in an oak barrel, the first-ever foeder (pronounced “fooder-er”) beer in Buffalo is ready to make its debut.

Fittingly named “Strawberry Gold,” this beer gives a nod to the heritage, the history, and the mission of the Co-op as it celebrates its 50th Anniversary. There are even 50 strawberries featured on the can!

This limited-edition golden ale is made with 800 pounds of strawberries from Orchard Dale Fruits in Waterport, NY. 

Buffalo’s First Foeder-Aged Beer!

Foeder-aged refers to the process of beer being allowed to sit with wild yeast and aging in an enormous barrel that’s roughly 10 times larger than an average wine barrel.

While in the barrel, the beer picks up a tremendous depth of character in layers of tartness, oak, and dryness. The result is a delicate 4.5% ABV beer that changes at each sip. The more it warms, the more the fruit flavor becomes dominant.

Stay Golden

Strawberry Gold
Foeder-Aged Golden Ale | 4.5% ABV

Our foeder-aged golden ale is conditioned on local strawberries made to celebrate Lexington Co-op Markets’ 50th Anniversary! We use two strains of wild yeast to introduce a subtle funk that pairs perfectly with the bright aromas and flavors of the fruit, finishing dry with a lively carbonation. Cheers! 

To create a unique taste experience, try Strawberry Gold with:

• Charcuterie board with bleu and goat cheese, fresh fruit
• Cured meats, prosciutto, pork loin
• Mussels, oysters with lemon & butter
• Or simply by itself!

How to Get Strawberry Gold

This exclusive and extremely limited beer will not be around for long!

Twelve ounce four-packs will be available for purchase (while supplies last) on Friday, August 20 at Lexington Co-op stores and the Community Beer Works Brewery & Taproom, along with a limited amount on draft at CBW. Don’t miss out!