(SAN DIEGO,CA) – AleSmith Brewing Company, a 20-year-old, award-winning San Diego craft brewery, signed with Wirtz Beverage Group to start distributing its hand-crafted ales throughout Chicago and surrounding suburbs next month.

AleSmith Brewing will be selling its portfolio of craft beers including Speedway Stout, AleSmith IPA, Nut Brown Ale, X Extra Pale Ale, Seasonal brews, and more.

“This is an important strategic partnership for AleSmith and we look forward to working closely with Wirtz Beverage in growing distribution and volume in the Chicago area,” said AleSmith Sales Director James Valles. “Adding Wirtz Beverage to our distributor network completes the build out of our footprint within the state of Illinois.”

Wirtz Beverage says it considers it an honor to be chosen as AleSmith’s distributor in Chicago.

“It’s impressive to see a brewery like AleSmith continue to grow and flourish,” said Wirtz Beverage Director of Sales Amy Abraham. “Celebrating 20 years is no easy task in the craft beer market that is as competitive as ever. It is a privilege to be chosen as their Chicagoland distributor, and we’re going to take great pride in helping AleSmith grow even bigger over the next 20 plus years.”

About AleSmith Brewing Company

Since 1995, AleSmith Brewing Company has been handcrafting European-inspired beer in the heart of San Diego. Characterized by quality craftsmanship, AleSmith’s award-winning classics include Speedway Stout, Wee Heavy, Olde Ale, and the .394 Pale Ale. To celebrate its 20th year in production, AleSmith recently opened a 105,500 square foot state-of-the-art brewery, featuring a new 80-barrel brew system and larger tasting room. www.alesmith.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AleSmithBrewingCo?fref=ts.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AleSmithBrewing

Instagram: https://instagram.com/alesmithbrewing/.

About Wirtz Beverage Illinois

Wirtz Beverage Illinois is a statewide leader in the distribution of fine wine, spirits and beer brands. The company combines its time-honored tradition of execution excellence with a reputation for best-in-class service and brand building throughout Illinois. The company is a member of Wirtz Beverage Group, a leading wholesaler and broker with interests in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Nevada and throughout Canada. To learn more, visit http://www.wirtzbev.com/ or engage with us on Facebook or Twitter.