BARRIE, ON – After several months of delays and negotiations, Smashbomb Atomic IPA from the Flying Monkeys Brewery has finally been made available at LCBO outlets in Ontario.
First submitted to the LCBO in January, the beer was rejected by the government agency’s social responsibility panel in March due to concerns about the violent nature of the beer’s name and packaging. After widespread media coverage of the rejection, a groundswell of support from Ontario craft beer drinkers led to the LCBO reconsidering their position, and following a few changes to the label illustration, the beer was approved.
Distribution of Smashbomb started last week, with limited quantities being made available at 90 stores. Wider distribution may follow based on demand.