Charles and Rose Ann Finkel were truly two of the prime movers for the beer revolution in America and brought many of the best imported beers to the U.S. via the import company, Merchant Du Vin, that they founded in 1978. They also founded Pike Brewery in Seattle’s famous Pike Place in 1989. The Finkels left the beer business in 1997 to pursue less hectic interests. Perhaps not hectic enough though, because they’re back. The Finkels have reportedly reaquired the Pike Brewery under undisclosed terms. Merchant Du Vin and the Seattle brewery will operate separately going forward.
Charles and Rose Ann Finkel (in front) posing last month during CBC at Pike Brewery with Pike brewers, old and new.
This is truly good news. Where’s Dick C. in the photo, though?
I used to visit the Pike in the early days, and was sad when it was Yuppyized by less-beer-knowledgeable owners in the mid-nineties.
I still remember the comment the new owners/management made to Fal (before he quit),
“can’t you just add food coloring to the Pale Ale, and make it into a stout?”