Submitted by A-State Athletics

The Arkansas State Athletics Department has announced that Red Wolves Sports Properties has entered an agreement with Soul & Spirits Brewery of Memphis, Tenn., to launch “Howlin’ Red Wolves Pilsner” as the official craft beer of A-State Athletics.

Howlin’ Red Wolves Pilsner is an American-style light lager using Jonesboro-grown rice alongside traditional pilsner malt to create a dry, easy-to-drink and refreshing beer that will be available at A-State football, basketball and baseball games, beginning with the Red Wolves’ football home and season opener against Central Arkansas on Aug. 31.    

“We’re not only excited to announce Howlin’ Red Wolves Pilsner as our official craft beer, but also proud that it uses ingredients produced in the state of Arkansas and was created by a brewery owned and operated by Arkansas State University alumni and supporters,” said Vice Chancellor for Intercollegiate Athletics Jeff Purinton. “We want to thank the entire Soul & Spirits brewery team for their commitment to this endeavor, and we believe from the branding to the product itself, Howlin’ Red Wolves Pilsner will be a popular choice among A-State fans.”

Following the season opener, the 4.3% ABV beverage, described as having a crisp, smooth finish, will also be available to A-State and craft beer fans in stores and restaurants throughout the Northeast Arkansas region, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Red Wolves Foundation. Unique, hand-selected hops were used in the brewing process to enhance the aroma, which produces a hint of citrusy hop flavor, creating a modernization of the original American light lagered beer.

“This is an overwhelming moment for myself, as I graduated from A-State in 2004, and now I am creating the official craft beer for my alma mater exactly 20 years later. That is just really, really amazing,” said Blair Perry, Soul & Spirits CEO and co-founder.

Rooted in tradition, yet constantly seeking innovation, Soul & Spirits is a passionate craft brewery that calls Memphis home. According to its website, the brewery produces “magical beers inspired by the soulful music that has come from this region, and its spirit lies in discovery and exploration.” More information about Soul & Spirits Brewery is available online at SoulAndSpirtsBrew.com.

“We wanted to create an easy-drinking craft version of an American light lager beer for Arkansas State University using locally grown rice and selecting a newer, modern hop for a hint of citrus to enjoy while cheering on the Red Wolves,” said Soul & Spirits Master Brewer & co-founder Ryan Allen.

Arkansas State kicked off its 2024 football season with a pair of home games, including its season opener on Aug. 31 against in-state foe Central Arkansas. A-State football season tickets may be purchased by calling the Red Wolves Foundation at (870) 972-2401, online by visiting AStateRedWolves.com/Tickets or via the A-State athletics App.