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Craft Beers of the World

UC Berkeley launches its first craft beer “Oski’s California Gold” ahead of football season

UC Berkeley launches its first craft beer “Oski’s California Gold” ahead of football season

UC Berkeley partners with Bear Republic Brewing to release “Oski’s California Gold,” its first official craft beer, launching September 1 with proceeds supporting alumni athletics and performing arts.

In an exciting intersection of tradition and taste, University of California, Berkeley, is launching its inaugural craft beer, Oski’s California Gold. The 4.8% ABV golden ale, adorned with the university’s mascot Oski on a retro-style can, will debut on 1st September 2025, just ahead of Cal’s football season kick-off.

Brewed in collaboration with Bear Republic, a well known American craft brewery for many years, the partnership emphasizes community-building rather than revenue generation.

With over 3,000 six-packs ready for distribution across the East Bay and 75 kegs heading to local bars and stadium venues, the beer is poised to become a staple on campus.

Despite tailwinds in the industry marked by declining alcohol consumption among younger demographics - only around 50% of Gen Z now drink - Cal sees the project as a unifying gesture, celebrating university spirit and shared experiences.


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