Ann Arbor-based Rave Associates and von Trapp Brewing celebrate industry accolades, growing partnership in Michigan

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Rave Associates, a leading family-owned beer and wine distributor in Ann Arbor, is thrilled to announce the recent accomplishments of one of its supplier partners, von Trapp Brewing. At the 2024 Great American Beer Festival® (GABF) Competition, von Trapp Brewing was awarded the prestigious ‘Brewery & Brewer of the Year’ title in the 15,001-100,000 barrel brewery category, along with a Gold Medal in the Munich-Style Helles category for their Helles Golden Lager.

“This is an incredible milestone for von Trapp Brewing and a testament to its team’s dedication and craftsmanship,” said Jim Warbritton, president of Rave Associates. “These achievements elevate the quality and variety of choices available to Michigan’s beer enthusiasts and help solidify Michigan’s standing as the Great Beer State.”

Since launching von Trapp Brewing in Michigan in 2023, Rave Associates has proudly worked to build the brand and expand its reach, supporting a shared vision for quality, innovation and community impact.

“We are dedicated to providing Michigan beer lovers with world-class options and expanding choices that enrich our state’s beer culture,” said Warbritton. “As we head into the holiday season, our team encourages everyone to discover and enjoy new beers, including von Trapp’s exceptional lagers.”

Rave Associates and von Trapp Brewing’s partnership reflects the commitment of Michigan’s beer and wine distributors to foster choice and competition by introducing a wide range of high-quality brands for retailers and consumers, enhancing Michigan’s reputation as a dynamic beer market.

About Rave Associates

This year, Rave Associates celebrates 50 years in business. The family-owned beer and wine distributor serves Southeastern Michigan, marketing its products directly to licensed accounts in Genesee, Jackson, Lenawee, Livingston, Oakland, Macomb, Monroe, Washtenaw and Wayne Counties. From its inception, Rave Associates has prided itself in representing only the finest products the industry has to offer. Rave's management staff pays particular attention to quality and uniqueness in selecting the products represented.

About von Trapp Brewing

Von Trapp Brewing is part of Trapp Family Lodge, a 2,600-acre resort owned and operated by the von Trapp family. The brewery was created in 2010 by the family that inspired “The Sound of Music.” Based in Stowe, Vermont, von Trapp Brewing specializes in authentic Austrian style lagers and are brewed with pure Vermont spring water sourced from the Trapp Family Lodge property, with inspiration from “A little of Austria, a lot of Vermont” ®.