Just in time for Halloween and Elgin’s zombie-themed “Nightmare on Chicago Street,” Black & Gray Brewing Co. in East Dundee is releasing a new brew called Resurrection Ale. The mastermind behind this spooky creation is Kristan Arnold, assistant general manager at Elgin Public House, who wanted a locally made beer to celebrate the season. Black & Gray salesman Casey Sleeman heard her idea and brought it to the brewery, and they were thrilled to collaborate with the downtown pub/restaurant.

“‘Nightmare’ is a fantastic event, and we wanted to bring a touch of history to it,” said Chris Kennedy, Black & Gray’s director of operations. Resurrection Ale will not only provide the brewery with exposure in downtown Elgin, but it also pays homage to the city’s past. In his research, Kennedy discovered the Elgin Eagle Brewery, which operated from the 1860s until Prohibition shut it down in 1920. Another company continued to make beer illegally at the site until they were raided by the feds in 1923.

Although Kennedy couldn’t find a surviving recipe from the Eagle Brewery, he uncovered that they made a beer called Adler Brau Export. This led him to conclude that the beer could be classified as a Dortmunder, a German-style beer. With this information in hand, the team at Black & Gray developed a modern recipe, which they tested by making a small batch.

Resurrection Ale is named in honor of both the “Nightmare on Chicago Street” theme and the revival of an old Elgin beer style. It has its own distinct logo and tap handle. Head brewer Chris Contesso and assistant brewer Rob Bending made the initial half-barrel for Elgin Public House, and it was so popular that it quickly sold out.

The beer has been relatively straightforward to make, as German brews must adhere to their country’s purity laws. The team imports German grains and hops to ensure that Resurrection Ale stays true to its German roots. They are currently preparing 20 barrels to have ready for “Nightmare on Chicago Street” and it will also be available at other downtown bars including Danny’s on Douglas, Rogue’s Corner, Martini Room and Vern’s.

Chris Contesso, the head brewer, is particularly excited about the new beer and the street festival. He plans on attending the event dressed as a Dortmunder beer – now that’s commitment!

Overall, the creation of Resurrection Ale has been an enjoyable and exciting process for Black & Gray Brewing Co. It’s an opportunity for them to showcase their skills and pay tribute to Elgin’s brewing history. Be sure to try this unique brew when it becomes available, just in time for Halloween. Cheers!