The brewer-turned-politician teamed up with Denver's Strange Craft Brewing Company to make this locally sourced lager.

Gov. John Hickenlooper is no stranger to Colorado’s craft beer community. The co-founder and former brewer of Wynkoop Brewing Company has remained close to his roots, often participating in industry events, and even occasionally stepping back into the brewhouse to collaborate with local brewers on unique beers.

His latest creation, the Uncommonly Colorado amber lager, was made with all-Centennial State ingredients in collaboration with Denver’s own Strange Craft Beer Company. At 4.5 percent ABV, the smooth, easy-drinking beer is made with specialty malt from Alamosa’s Colorado Malting Company, Chinook hops from Paonia’s High Wire Hops, and lager yeast from Denver’s Inland Island Yeast Company.

The limited release will exclusively be available on Thursday, August 17, at Brews & Bites, a food- and drink-focused event held at the Governor’s Residence at the Boettcher Mansion. Guests can sample the special one-off beer (which is paired with the Kitchen Denver’s Gruyère fondue), while VIP attendees will take home a specialty bottle signed by Hickenlooper himself.

But don’t just go for this collaboration brew. Brews & Bites will feature more than 15 food and beer pairings from restaurants such as Euclid Hall and Blue Agave Grill, and Colorado Brewers Guild members such as Telluride Brewing Co. and Baere Brewing Company. Enjoy live music from Grass It Up and take a tour of the mansion and residence grounds. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Governor’s Residence Preservation Fund.

If you go: Brews & Bites, August 17, 6–8:30 p.m.; Governor’s Residence at Boettcher Mansion, 400 E. Eighth Ave.; tickets start at $75