Crossing the Free State Line

After a fire in 2008 set back their plans for expansion, it looks like Free State Brewery is on the verge of having their product available in bottles at retail and kegs outside the state of Kansas. Based out of Lawrence, KS, Free State's beers have mainly been available at their brew pub, various beer festivals and Kansas-based KC restaurants like Barley's Brewhaus.

Evan Benn recently stumbled upon five Free State beers being approved for distribution in Missouri on the Missouri Brand Label Registration site. The five beers Missouri residents can expect to see in bottles are:

• Ad Astra Ale
• Copperhead Pale Ale
• Oatmeal Stout
• Stormwatch Ale
• Wheat State Golden Beer

I have yet to see anything regarding a specific time table, but the Flying Saucer currently has Free State slotted in for their March 31st Wednesday Glass Night where you get to keep the glass for a marginal fee. Hopefully they may tap a keg or two prior to the event. If you have any additional info, be sure to throw it in the comments section.