Rare Belgian Beer's U.S. Debut Draws Crowds Seeking $90 Six Pack
SAN FRANCISCO (CBS 5) - A batch of a world-renowned beer drew crowds to a San Francisco and other select locations looking to shell out close to $100 for a six pack or rare brew.
Westvleteren 12, a beer brewed by Belgian monks at St. Sixtus Abbey, had never before been released internationally, but monks brewed up some extra this year to raise funds for a new roof and other improvements to the abbey.
"It's a very, very special beer. It's being released in the world for the first and probably the last time," said Matt Strickland, who waited in line for six hours in San Francisco.
It had better be. A six pack was running $92.50 after taxes Wednesday.
"None of the retailers, distributors or importers are getting any money off this either," said Craig Wathen, Owner of City Beer Store.
Demand was so high that many owners handed out tickets in advance of the shipment's arrival. Many retailers sold out within minutes.
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