Opinions? Monster Energy vs Vermont Microbrewery

As a beer geek & a craft brew fan but also a Robby Gordon fan with an appreciation for his sponsors, I'm a bit torn on this. Watch this YouTube video and post here what you think:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kbG_woqXTeg

There's good arguments for both sides. But as I have read in other articles, the hidden reason for the hub-bub here is that Monster/Hansen's is planning on getting into the beer business.

Thoughts?

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Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Stick66 on October 16, 2009 at 7:33pm

Wow. No opinions?

I think it's nice that Monster picked up Robby when Red Bull dropped him a few years back. But there's plenty of beers out there that have "Red" or "Bull" in their names and Red Bull isn't threatening any of those breweries. I'm still torn, I guess.

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Permalink Reply by MikeNIN7 on October 16, 2009 at 8:18pm

But who would be dum enough to call a beer VerRedBull. Unless you want publicity.

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Permalink Reply by alan4s on October 16, 2009 at 7:46pm

Yeah, it's silly. Hansen should leave the little brewer alone.

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Permalink Reply by Heather on October 16, 2009 at 8:22pm

Being from Vermont, obviously I'm rooting for the underdog here.... huh, seems to be a common theme for me. Headed to Martinsville Thursday - should I bring some Rock Art to the tailgate party?

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Permalink Reply by Dave-O on October 17, 2009 at 11:32am

There's a micro-brewery out my way (BC, Canada) that use to sell a beer called "Blue Truck Ale". Some California winery that sells a "Red Truck" white wine pulled the same trick. The local guys didn't fight the case, just switched the brand name to "Blue Buck Ale". They likely made a killing off all the free advertising and public support.

If this guy wants to destroy his brewery to win a pissing contest, that's his right. I'd find a new name (Vermountineer maybe) and try to ride the publicity to greater sales.

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Permalink Reply by Dave-O on October 17, 2009 at 2:46pm

aha, right you are. Wonder how I got that screwed up....

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Permalink Reply by Stick66 on October 21, 2009 at 6:43pm

Monster is at it again. They have recently gone after a beverage review site that posted a bad review of their product. Monster has accused them of advertising or selling products similar to Monster. But they don't sell anything. They only review. More here:

http://consumerist.com/5382858/monster-energy-trains-legal-guns-on-...

However, I am hearing that Monster has come to an agreement with Rock Art Brewery that will allow them to continue to sell their Vermonster beer. Seems Monster hasn't enjoyed the trashing they've been getting from the craft brew fans.