That's right, we're bringing back the New Era x Billion Creation 'Red Ale' 59FIFTY -- an homage to one of the most iconic breweries in San Diego.
Karl Strauss' "Red Trolley Ale" is a well-known and popular craft beer that has gained widespread recognition in the United States. But the brew worked hard to get where it is today. To understand the history (and success) of Red Trolley Ale, we need to delve into the story of Karl Strauss Brewing Company itself.
Karl Strauss Brewing Company was founded in 1989 in San Diego, California, by Chris Cramer and Matt Rattner, who named the brewery after Karl Strauss, Chris’s German-born cousin. Karl Strauss was a brewmaster who played a significant role in the American craft beer revolution.
The idea for Red Trolley Ale emerged shortly after the brewery’s inception. The beer was created as an homage to the old-fashioned, traditional Irish ales that Karl Strauss enjoyed during his early brewing career. “Red Trolley Ale” — one of San Diego’s most iconic beers — pays tribute to the iconic red trolley cars that were once a prominent mode of transportation in the city.
Red Trolley Ale was developed as a classic Irish-style red ale, characterized by its rich, malty flavor profile and deep red hue. The recipe was carefully crafted by Karl Strauss Brewing Company’s talented brewers, who aimed to create a beer that would showcase the brewery’s commitment to quality and tradition.
Upon its release, Red Trolley Ale quickly gained popularity among craft beer enthusiasts in the San Diego area. Its smooth and flavorful taste, combined with the brewery’s emphasis on brewing excellence, helped establish Red Trolley Ale as one of Karl Strauss Brewing Company’s flagship beers.
Over the years, Red Trolley Ale has received numerous accolades and awards, solidifying its reputation as a top-quality craft beer. It has been recognized at various beer competitions, including the Great American Beer Festival, where it has won multiple medals.
Karl Strauss Brewing Company expanded its operations, opening multiple brewpubs and distribution channels throughout Southern California. This growth allowed Red Trolley Ale to reach a wider audience, and it became a staple in the craft beer scene across the region.
Today, Karl Strauss’ Red Trolley Ale continues to be a beloved beer, not only in San Diego but also in other parts of California and beyond. It serves as a testament to the brewery’s commitment to the creation of exceptional craft beer with a nod to tradition, and it remains an integral part of Karl Strauss Brewing Company’s portfolio.
As such, it became a prime candidate for our beloved New Era x Billion Creation "Beer Pack" -- a collection of four bespoke 59FIFTY caps paying homage to the city's favorite breweries (in both colorway and design).
We're honored to work alongside the brands, companies, and individuals that make San Diego one of the greatest cities on earth. Karl Strauss is no exception.
