(Chicago, IL) – Want a rundown of what’s new and changing for Goose Island in 2012? Here you go. You can get most of this right on the freshly-minted schedule though I’m adding a few ‘insider’ notes.

No current plans to re-brew (though not necessarily retired forever):

Nightstalker

Big John

Demolition

King Henry

Fleur

So the Extreme Ales line is pretty much being abolished save for BCS and BCS variants.

New/Re-introductions:

– 312 Urban Wheat cans are coming in March.

– Nut Brown Ale will return year-round beginning in March with a new “Goose Island Classics” label. The beer will be available in 6pks, 1/6 bbl & 1/2 bbl kegs.

– Marisol Latin-style White Ale will be introduced in the Vintage Ales line but release date is TBA. The beer currently has label approval for 1/6 bbl & 1/2 bbl kegs. A 22 oz. bottle label with “2011” on it also came through last year.

– Gillian will join the Vintage Reserve Ales line. Release TBA.

– Wheat Whiskey Bourbon County Stout. Release TBA.

More info on Gillian: Inspired by an amuse bouche often prepared by one of our Brewer’s wifes, Gillian brings white pepper, strawberry, and honey to a harmonious blend of “mouth amusement.” The ingredients are added at different stages to a Saison, and fermented with a normal Belgian yeast as well as a Champagne yeast. One of our favorite brews of the past year with many levels of complexity and character.

Other Changes:

– Look for Sofie and Pere Jacques on draft year-round instead of only in certain seasons.

– Pepe Nero will no longer be available on draft.

– I’m told to expect more BCS & BCS variants and more of the wild ales (Lolita especially). I take this to mean more production. A few random beers not listed in the schedule are likely to trickle out as well.