In 2006 (the first year it was brewed) they only made 10 barrels, and it was released in kegs for a small number of bars. In 2007 approx 25 barrels were made, mostly kegs, in addition to 400 (750ml) bottles - which were only sold at the brewery.
This year approx 50 barrels were brewed, mostly keg, but 4200 (750ml) bottles were also produced. To get the beer you had to show up at the brewery on "Darkness Day". Each person was allowed to purchase up to 6 bottles, for 17 dollars a piece. Beer was only guaranteed to the first 700 people who showed up.
I showed up at 10:00 AM (gates opened at 12:00) and ended up being number 449 in line! It appeared that approx 1000 people showed up, so a number of people didn't get any beer. I got 6 bottles, and so did the girlfriend. Cracked one last night and I have to say it was worth all of the hype!
I went last year, so I knew what to expect of the beer itself, but word got around, and a LOT more people showed up this year.
(Captions below each photo)
The line to get in. Yes, it's wrapping all the way around the corner. There were also at least that many people behind me.
Poster of the label
The crowd. They had food vendors, taps of their other beers, bands playing, etc. Set up like a festival, it was a lot of fun.
Made out of crushed Surly cans.
The end result of all the standing in line. Definitely worth it, because the beer is delicious!
