How Dogfish Head Became the Official Beer of the Grateful Dead
Dogfish Head founder Sam Calagione describes the brewery's collaboration with the Grateful Dead as the most rewarding and durable project in the company's history
Sam Calagione, the founder of Dogfish Head and a self-described tie-dyed-in-the-wool Deadhead, often starts his mornings on the Atlantic Ocean. He operates a 19-foot whaler, which he navigates through the canals near his home in Delaware to reach specific fishing spots. Once he has dropped anchor, Calagione spends his time fishing while listening to the music of the Grateful Dead. To facilitate this, he brings three separate iPhones to shuffle through the band's music, ensuring a constant soundtrack for his time on the water.[1]
This personal connection to the band's legacy eventually led to a formal business arrangement, with Dogfish Head becoming the official beer of the Grateful Dead. Calagione has reflected on the significance of this partnership, noting that it has become a cornerstone of the brewery's collaborative efforts. He characterized the relationship as the most durable and rewarding project the company has ever been involved with, emphasizing the long-term success and personal satisfaction derived from merging his craft brewing business with the iconic rock band's brand.[1][2]
