Draft Picks: Chase an Ale Storm in Omaha

This is the fifth in a series of MiLB.com Draft Picks articles about clubs crafting unique and interesting beers for their respective fan bases. Already profiled: Gwinnett's 6-4-3 Pilsner, Spokane's Redband Tangerine Wheat Beer, Fayetteville's Birdy Brew and Kannapolis' Baller Beer.

The Omaha Storm Chasers' Ale Storm beer has been around since 2013. For reference, baseball fans, that was a year after the rebranded Marlins moved to Miami and the Astros unveiled a new logo they still use today.

Now in 2023, Ale Storm still has the original recipe fans know and love, but just like a ballclub, it was time for a new look.

The Triple-A Royals affiliate's signature brew, which is made in collaboration with the Nebraska Brewing Company, released three new can designs to open the season and each of them commemorates one of the team's uniforms.

“It was time for a little refresh,” said Martie Cordaro, president of the Storm Chasers. “We’re excited to rediscover how the beer goes.”

The trio of new designs mirrors the white home uniform, gray roads and powder blue alternates reminiscent of those the Royals wear. Alongside the can makeover, a little bit of history associated with each jersey was added by the Storm Chasers.

For the white uniform, Omaha pointed out that “87 players that have worn this jersey at Werner Park have gone on to make their MLB debuts.”

The beer itself is an ale, hence the name, and just the right heaviness to enjoy at a game.

“The thing that was most important to us back in 2012-2013 when we started exploring this partnership, was for a beer to be different, not necessarily a light beer, but something that wasn't heavy,” Cordaro said. “When you’re out at the ballpark, you can drink two or three of them while you have a hot dog.”

What the team ended up with was a smooth ale that is appealing to a wide array of fans. Playing off the jersey-style can art, the team also released special edition Ale Storm shirts on June 22. The merch features “Ale Storm” written across the chest and the number 23 on the back to commemorate this season.

Do you love @NEBrewingCo Ale Storm as much as we do?

You can now buy an Ale Storm shirt online or in the Storm Front Team Store!

Purchase: https://t.co/cc6F5GXWX4 pic.twitter.com/NutpTIJFpW

— Omaha Storm Chasers (@OMAStormChasers) June 22, 2023

The previous can featured the Storm Chasers logo surrounded by wheat with a blue background.

On #NationalBeerCanAppreciationDay, how can we not highlight the coolest beer can in the MiLB?

Getting an Ale Storm at a Storm Chasers game is always a must. pic.twitter.com/FNh2jGgEys

— Omaha Storm Chasers (@OMAStormChasers) January 24, 2023

The signature suds were previously available across the country but are currently just in stores throughout the greater Omaha area. Now heading into its 10th year in existence, the beer has become an intricate part of the Omaha ballpark experience.

“We’re really proud of our partnership with Nebraska Brewing Company and for fans that were able to try it in the markets across the country as well as right here in Omaha, we appreciate the support,” Cordaro said.