ROCHESTER, NY — Toronto Blue Jays infielder Ernie Clement, a Rochester native, is teaming up with Brewery Ommegang on a new craft lager called Upstate Hustle. A portion of sales will benefit Challenger Miracle Field of Greater Rochester, which supports inclusive sports access for people with developmental, physical or intellectual disabilities.
Beer release ties Clement’s hometown roots to local charity support
Clement said the project reflects the community that backed him while he was growing up in Rochester and playing baseball in western New York. He described the collaboration as a way to give back through a beer that connects hometown pride with a local cause.
Randy Scroger, Brewery Ommegang’s national accounts director, said Clement’s baseball background and upstate roots made him a natural partner for the release. He said the brewery wanted the lager to support the community while staying true to its New York identity.
Upstate Hustle uses New York hops and a light, crisp lager profile
The beer is brewed with Nectaron, NY Excelsior and NY Centennial hops. Brewery Ommegang says the lager has a light cracker malt note and mellow hop fruitiness, with an approachable 4.2% ABV.
The brewery also characterized the beer as crisp and refreshing, aimed at drinkers looking for an easygoing craft lager.
Distribution planned across four upstate New York cities
Upstate Hustle will be available in Rochester, Cooperstown, Syracuse and Buffalo. The release gives the beer a regional footprint across upstate New York while directing some proceeds to Challenger Miracle Field’s work in the Rochester area.
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