Counterflow Coffee and Bay City Brewing have unveiled Witching Hour, a 5.5% ABV coffee stout that represents the next chapter in their creative partnership and pays homage to Southern California's punk rock heritage. The collaboration builds on the success of last year's Gambino Coffee Stout but introduces a more approachable alcohol content while maintaining the craftsmanship and attention to detail that defines both companies.
The importance of this release lies in its reflection of evolving consumer preferences toward more sessionable craft beverages while maintaining authentic local connections. Witching Hour's development signals a strategic shift in the craft beer industry toward lower-alcohol options that don't sacrifice flavor complexity, potentially influencing how other breweries approach product development and market positioning.
Austin Pinder, head of brewing at Bay City, explained the reasoning behind the lower alcohol content: "This time, we wanted something more accessible to the masses. We created a smoother, lighter, and even more coffee-forward flavor." This approach contrasts with their previous Gambino Coffee Stout, which was brewed at 9% ABV. The new beer incorporates Counterflow's signature cold brew, bringing a fresh, bold aroma and distinct yet subtle espresso character to the finished product.
The collaboration extends beyond brewing to include visual identity and storytelling developed by Counterflow Marketing, which aimed to channel "the wistful edge of SoCal punk" while maintaining a modern and refined aesthetic. This integration of brand storytelling with product development represents how craft beverage companies are increasingly focusing on creating complete sensory experiences rather than just producing beverages.
Following its launch event on November 13th at Bay City Brewing's downtown location, Witching Hour will be available on tap at both Bay City Brewing locations and distributed to bars and stores throughout Southern California. The beer will be offered in three flavor variations: Apple Pie, Coconut Macadamia Nut, and the Original Witching Hour, providing consumers with multiple options to experience this collaborative creation.
For consumers, this release offers a more sessionable craft beer option that maintains the complexity and quality expected from established craft producers. The lower alcohol content makes it suitable for extended social occasions while the coffee-forward profile appeals to both beer enthusiasts and coffee lovers. The partnership between Counterflow Coffee and Bay City Brewing demonstrates how cross-industry collaborations can produce innovative products that resonate with local communities while pushing creative boundaries in the craft beverage space.
