Tröegs Independent Brewing, based in Hershey, Pennsylvania, has announced the return of its seasonal favorite, Mad Elf, just in time for the holidays. First introduced in 2002, this festive beer has since become a hallmark of the brewery’s lineup and a tradition for many beer lovers across the region.
Co-founder Chris Trogner explains that Mad Elf holds a special place not only among beer enthusiasts but also with those who may not typically drink beer. “Mad Elf captures so many things about the holidays for so many people,” says Trogner. “And not just beer lovers. A lot of people who typically don’t drink beer have a special connection with Mad Elf.”
At the heart of Mad Elf’s unique profile is a blend of five varieties of cherries. Bing, Lambert, Van, and Royal Ann cherries bring a bright sweetness, while Montmorency cherries provide a subtle tartness. This combination gives the beer its characteristic ruby-red hue and a distinctive fruity flavor.
Another key ingredient is Pennsylvania-sourced honey. Each year, the brewery partners with The Happy Beekeeper in Carlisle, PA, to incorporate 25,000 pounds of wildflower honey into the brew, adding to its rich and festive flavor.
Whether it’s the nostalgia, seasonal flavors, or the whimsical nature of the beer, Mad Elf has earned a devoted following. “It’s really found a place in people’s holiday traditions,” Trogner adds. “We like to say that it’s not the holidays until you’ve had your first Mad Elf.”
Mad Elf is available in 12-ounce bottles and cans at the brewery and through its distribution network, with draft options set to follow in the coming weeks.
Additionally, Tröegs is releasing Mad Elf Grand Cru, a more limited version of the original beer. Described as a “director’s cut” of Mad Elf, Grand Cru is brewed with tart Balaton cherries and is available in 375mL cork and cage bottles. Like the original, Grand Cru is brewed with chocolate, Munich, and pilsner malts, along with Pennsylvania wildflower honey, and is fermented with a Belgian yeast strain that imparts cinnamon, clove, and allspice flavors.