Counterflow Coffee and Bay City Brewing have joined forces to release Witching Hour, a 5.5% ABV coffee stout that pays homage to San Diego's punk rock energy and craft beer culture. The beer, which launches November 13 at Bay City Brewing's downtown location, represents a shift from their previous collaboration, Gambino Coffee Stout, which had a higher alcohol content and heavier malt profile. Witching Hour is designed to be more approachable, with a smoother, coffee-forward flavor achieved through the addition of Counterflow's signature cold brew.
“This time, we wanted something more accessible to the masses,” said Austin Pinder, head of brewing at Bay City Brewing. “We created a smoother, lighter, and even more coffee-forward flavor.” The beer's lower ABV makes it suitable for extended evenings, with a roasty character that complements the bold coffee aroma. Geoff Davis of Counterflow Coffee emphasized the cultural significance: “It’s about honoring that punk rock energy that shaped us while keeping it true to San Diego’s craft scene.”
The release party, free to the public, will take place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday, November 13, at Bay City Brewing's downtown location (627 8th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101). Attendees can sample three variants of Witching Hour: Apple Pie, Coconut Macadamia Nut, and the Original. The event will also feature Counterflow Coffee's espresso martinis and a food pop-up by ELE Burger. The collaboration extends beyond the beer itself; Counterflow Marketing handled the visual identity, channeling the gritty, authentic aesthetic of SoCal punk.
Following its launch, Witching Hour will be available on tap at Bay City Brewing's Midway and Downtown locations, as well as distributed to bars and stores throughout Southern California. The partnership builds on the success of Gambino Coffee Stout, released last year, and underscores the shared commitment of both companies to community and craftsmanship. “It’s about bringing nostalgia into something you can taste,” the founders noted.
For more information, visit Counterflow Coffee and Bay City Brewing. Follow them on Instagram at @counterflowcoffee and @baycitybrewing, and Bay City Brewing on Facebook at facebook.com/baycitybrewingco.
