I know Pumking is upcoming, but trying to do some legwork ahead of time. Although I did see a ISO:FT for a 2012 batch... I'm guessing this isn't possible, but is there any way to get a Pumking keg out here (Sac area)? One of my buddies absolutely loves this beer and was hoping to have one for a special event coming up in about a month. As a backup plan, is there anywhere online to get Pumking bottles in quantity?
Unfortunately not possible and VERY VERY ILLEGAL! You need to be careful, just a heads up. It's illegal to buy and ship beer across the country. Southern Tier does not have a distributor out here so even if you were able to find a bar owner or buyer out there that had the ability to order you one he would essentially be committing a felony to ship it to you as the 3 tier system prevents this. If you do figure it out though let me know I would drink some. Sorry to burst your bubble. Your best bet is to try and trade for a larger quantity of bottles (which technically is still not legal.)
Figured it was a longshot, thanks for the reply. When you say it is illegal to buy beer across the country, you mean just kegs? Places like france44 and the like have licenses to ship alcohol to certain states like CA, is that correct?
Not true. Many places have licenses and can ship beer to California. It's perfectly legal if you have an appropriate license, and the destination state allows it, per Granholm vs. Heald. Here's a good breakdown: http://billybrew.com/the-ins-and-outs-of-shipping-beer
This ties in with the legality of shipping and distributing, which is being discussed over here: http://beeradvocate.com/community/threads/bars-selling-beers-not-distribute-to-the-state.2094/
Easiest solution. Drive to Portland where they get southern tier. Make a weekend out of it. Drive keg down to California. I don't think that's illegal at all unless you try to serve it at a bar and/or make money off of it.
Unless he can find a shop/distributor with a license to ship him a keg directly! Certain states have interstate transport laws prohibiting transport of alcohol across state lines. I don't think Oregon/California has strict laws against this, but other states definitely do.
Here you go, free shipping on 6 or more bottles, $10 off if you buy 12 (and still free shipping). http://www.letspour.com/deals/911-2012-Southern-Tier-Imperial-Pumking- (yes I know the price is higher than if he could go to the store and get them)