The Farm Progress Show, a premier agricultural event, has recently unveiled an exclusive American Lager developed in partnership with Riggs Beer Company, an Illinois-based brewery. This innovative collaboration highlights the potential for agricultural diversification by utilizing locally grown grains and hops in the brewing process. The new beer, available both at the brewery and at various retail outlets, is set to be a key attraction at the 2025 Farm Progress Show, which will commemorate two decades at its biennial Decatur location. This initiative not only celebrates the rich agricultural traditions of Illinois but also showcases inventive pathways for farmers to enhance the value of their produce beyond conventional commodity markets.
This partnership is a testament to a shared vision that values both heritage and forward-thinking strategies in agriculture. By creating a product that is deeply rooted in local Illinois farming, both organizations aim to strengthen the connection between consumers and the origins of their food and beverages. The introduction of this bespoke lager provides a unique opportunity for attendees of the Farm Progress Show to experience the direct results of local agricultural innovation, fostering a greater appreciation for farm-to-table practices. Furthermore, this venture serves as an inspiring example for other farming enterprises to explore novel revenue streams and embrace a more diversified approach to agricultural production.
A Taste of Illinois: The Exclusive Farm Progress Show Lager
The Farm Progress Show, a prominent fixture in the agricultural calendar, has proudly announced its first-ever beer collaboration with Riggs Beer Company, resulting in an exclusive American Lager. This distinctive brew is crafted from six-row barley cultivated directly on Riggs' family farm and ultra-low oil white corn, emphasizing a commitment to local sourcing and agricultural excellence. The lager, which boasts a 5% alcohol content, offers a delightful balance of light corn sweetness and subtle nutty undertones, making it a refreshing choice. Consumers will find a QR code on each can, facilitating direct ticket purchases for the upcoming Farm Progress Show, seamlessly linking the product to the event it celebrates. The beer's availability extends beyond the brewery in Urbana to numerous retailers, bars, and restaurants across Illinois, including locations in Pana, Forsyth, Peoria, Champaign, Savoy, Springfield, Decatur, and Mount Zion.
This pioneering venture between the Farm Progress Show and Riggs Beer Company represents a significant milestone in promoting local agricultural products and fostering community ties. Matt Jungmann, senior director of national events for Farm Progress, expressed immense enthusiasm for this partnership, emphasizing its role in uniting two iconic Illinois entities while honoring both the state’s farming legacy and its innovative spirit. The decision to use Illinois-grown ingredients not only ensures a unique flavor profile but also supports local farmers by creating new markets for their crops. This 'farm-to-glass' initiative will be prominently featured at the Syngenta Beer Tent during the show, available daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. CDT. It encapsulates a broader movement towards sustainable and localized production, inviting consumers to literally taste the success of Illinois agriculture.
Riggs Beer Company: A Legacy of Agricultural Innovation
Riggs Beer Company, situated in Urbana, Illinois, is the brainchild of brothers Matt and Darin Riggs, who represent the fifth generation of their family's farming lineage dating back to 1874. Their brewery was established with a clear mission: to add value to their farm-grown grains and secure the financial future and independent ownership of their ancestral land. Recognizing the challenges of competing in the traditional commodity market, the Riggs brothers embarked on a different path, leveraging their agricultural heritage to create a distinct brand. This strategic pivot into craft brewing exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to farm management, demonstrating how diversification can lead to sustainable growth and the preservation of long-standing family businesses.
The brothers' journey into brewing is backed by impressive credentials and a deep commitment to quality. Matt Riggs honed his skills at Germany's renowned Faust Brewery and Munich's Domens Academy, acquiring a profound understanding of European brewing traditions. Concurrently, Darin, a former Navy submarine officer, pursued his brewing education in California before gaining experience at Anheuser-Busch. Their combined expertise and shared vision underscore the philosophy behind Riggs Beer Company: to produce high-quality beverages that proudly showcase Central Illinois' agricultural bounty. By incorporating ingredients like their farm's six-row barley and hops from small Illinois producers, they not only craft exceptional beers but also inspire other farmers to explore innovative avenues for their produce, thereby enriching the local agricultural economy and promoting creative farming practices.
