Clarkston isn’t always mentioned in the same breath as ‘world record,? but the Clarkston Union helped change that April 5.
Bell’s Brewing Company of Kalamazoo selected the site to host a record-breaking night. The brewer put 25 beer selections on tap for the masses to sample.
Patrons flocked to the restaurant, which is housed inside a renovated church building on Main Street, for ‘The Union rocks the Bell’s.?
‘It’s a well-known brewery and it’s an honor to be chosen. When it comes to microbrewers, that’s as big as it gets,? Clarkston Union owner Curt Catallo said.
‘It’s unique to happen at the Union,? Catallo said. ‘We’ve always had a great relationship with the brewery. They knew our crowd really appreciated that quality-crafted beer.?
In 1995, while the church building was being renovated into what is now the Union, Bell’s owner/founder Larry Bell toured the building and offered his advice.
‘He walked through the sawdust, gave us his two cents and we were wise enough to listen,? Catallo said.
The most popular beer selection for the night was Bell’s Oberon followed by Bell’s Expedition Ale.
‘It was a great turnout. It definitely wasn’t your typical Thursday night in Clarkston for sure,? Catallo said.
Larry Bell even rang the Union’s church bell, which remains from the renovation, for the first time since the restaurant opened in 1996. The bell had remained tucked away, but Catallo felt the event warranted its return.
Bar patron Trevor Taylor, 24, from Independence Township, heard about the event from a friend. Sampling Third Coast, he said, ‘It’s pretty good, it’s strong and smooth. I really enjoy it.?
Elyse Horner, 22, a friend of Taylor, liked being a part of a special event. Horner said she typically visits the Union on a weekly basis.
‘I feel like I’m part of record-breaking history,? Horner said.
Created in 1983, Bell’s has matured from a small company operating within a former plumbing supply warehouse, to what they say is, ‘the oldest craft brewer east of Boulder, Colo.? Bell’s is available in nine Midwestern states.