Dogfish Head is combining craft beer and conservation with the launch of Vild Banck, a hefeweizen brewed to benefit the Greater Lewes Foundation’s Open Space Campaign for the Fourth Street Forest.
Named in honor of Lewes’ first settler, Helmanus Wiltbank, Vild Banck connects local history with a modern environmental mission.
The beer was officially introduced during a Beer & Benevolence night at Dogfish Head Brewing & Eats in Rehoboth Beach on April 16th.
A portion of proceeds from the event went directly to the campaign to preserve the last forest in Lewes.
About Dogfish Head Brewery
Dogfish Head Brewery is based in Milton, Delaware, and was founded by Sam Calagione.
Opened in 1995, they are now a brewery, distillery, restaurant, and inn that is very popular among locals & visitors for a wonderful meal & drink to accompany.
About the Fourth Street Preserve
The Fourth Street Preserve is a 30-acre forest located on either side of Fourth Street in Lewes.
This historically significant parcel was the first deeded land in Delaware in 1670 and today plays a crucial role in:
- Preserving local wildlife habitats
- Improving air quality and reducing carbon emissions
- Managing water runoff and helping prevent flooding
As Lewes faces rapid development, protecting this forest has become critical to maintaining the city's "sense of place."
The Campaign and How to Help
The Greater Lewes Foundation’s Open Space Campaign has already raised $6.4 million of the $8 million needed to purchase and preserve the forest.
The deadline to meet this goal is Monday, September 15th.
By purchasing Vild Banck beer or donating directly to the campaign, residents and visitors can contribute to safeguarding this vital green space for future generations.
About the Vild Banck
The Vild Banck is an unfiltered pale yellow hefeweizen that presents a malty sweet aroma with clove notes.
Its light body and pleasant mouthfeel pair well with dishes like Mclaine mac, Maryland Crab pasta, or Caesar salad.
Now you can enjoy a classic hefeweizen with a meaningful purpose!
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Source: Cape Gazette