To gear up for Mardi Gras on February 28th we reached out to our friend David Blossman, President of Abita Brewing, to find out more about Abita and New Orleans’ favorite holiday traditions.

When was the first Abita Mardi Gras Bock brewed? How was the Bock style chosen?

1989 was the first official brew of Mardi Gras Bock. We decided to brew a Bock because it was traditionally a Spring beer in Germany, where they were aged through the cold winters. They’re strong, but go down smooth which is perfect for Mardi Gras. It’s the start of the Spring and there’s often still a chill in the air this time of year and the added strength gives paradegoers a warm feeling. Mardi Gras Bock’s smoothness goes great with the season’s revelry

How is the brewery involved in the celebration of Mardi Gras?

We’ve been a part of Mardi Gras parades, balls, and parties in the New Orleans area for 30 years now! We like to say that we brew beer for the way we love to live here in Louisiana and a lot of our brews are perfect to bring out to the parade route to have a good time. Go out to a parade this year and you’re guaranteed to see more than a few hands raised in the air asking for beads while holding an Abita. In addition to just that ingrained connection we have with our drinkers within Louisiana, we also spread the Mardi Gras spirit across the country. This year alone, we’ll working with accounts in at least 15 states to throw Abita Mardi Gras celebrations. You don’t have to be in New Orleans to celebrate Fat Tuesday!

Best food pairings for Mardi Gras Bock?

Gruyére, Emmental and Swiss are nice cheese choices with Bock. For meats, try it with roasted beef or pork. Try it with Mexican food, too.

What are the top 3 selling beers during Mardi Gras?

Amber, Purple Haze, and Mardi Gras Bock

What is your favorite thing about Mardi Gras in New Orleans?

The revelry, hands down! The celebrations may have changed a bit, but the main idea of Mardi Gras is the same today as it was a few hundred years ago. It’s all about having a good time and letting loose. In New Orleans, there’s nothing better than going out to the parade route, meeting up with friends and family, and sharing a few (or maybe a little more than a few) beers. Mardi Gras is something that’s in our blood that we’ve been a part of since we could walk and catch a bead. The sounds, sights, and flavors of Mardi Gras are unmistakable.