MURPHYSBORO – St. Nicholas Brewing Company MDH, inside the main terminal at Southern Illinois Airport in Murphysboro, announces the release of its first brewed beer on airport grounds.

With the scheduled Tap Release next week, “Wheelz Up” IPA becomes the first official airport brew completed at the airport and the first beer brewed in a general aviation classified airport in the United States.

The public and aviation community are invited to the “Tap Release” of this beer on Thursday at 5:30 p.m. at St. Nicholas Brewing Company MDH at the airport.

Legacy Airport Manager Gary Shafer will tap and taste this special brew as guest of honor.

Brewmaster James McCoy and Assistant Brewmaster Carl Bundy describe “Wheelz Up” IPA as 6.6% ABV and brewed with 100% Citra hops. This is a single hop IPA showcasing one of St. Nicholas Brewing Company’s favorite hops, which is full of citrus aroma, flavor, and juiciness. Brewmasters James & Carl will be available to discuss the brewing process.

The new terminal building at Southern Illinois Airport opened last summer. The building is designed to mimic the shape of the original 1950 airport hangar. This new building is home to the third location of St. Nicholas Brewery, a 75-seat restaurant with a 30’ bar overlooking the runway. An additional 50 seats are available on the patio steps off the ramp. A brewery operation is in the front of the terminal – making Southern Illinois Airport the first and only general aviation airport in America with onsite beer brewing in its terminal.