You may find this honor surprising. After all, an iconic Upstate New York convenience store, well-known for its ice cream, is being honored for a local beer they have brought back to their stores.

Mountain Brew is making headlines again. After a recent reintroduction, the classic Stewart’s brand has earned a spot among the top private-label beers, according to the Wall Street Journal.

The beer’s return wasn’t just a re-release. Stewart’s partnered with Paradox Brewery, a craft brewer based in the Adirondacks, to give Mountain Brew a new recipe.

Stewart's Shops' Facebook page
Stewart's Shops' Facebook page
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According to Stewart's, The Wall Street Journal called it “a refreshing new recipe” and praised Stewart’s for creating a beer that offers both quality and value.

That was exactly the goal from the start. Stewart’s set out to make a great-tasting, local beer that wouldn’t break the bank.

The crisp new lager is now available in 19.2-ounce cans across Stewart’s Shops in upstate New York and Vermont.

Stewart's Shops' Facebook page
Stewart's Shops' Facebook page
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Each can goes for $2.19 or two for $4, making it an affordable pick for anyone looking for a solid brew.

The recognition from the Wall Street Journal puts Stewart’s in good company. More retailers are teaming up with craft breweries to create private-label beers that stand out.

Read More: Best Breweries In The Capital Region

Bill Majewski, Stewart’s marketing director, said he thinks the secret is simple. He said,

“It’s about producing a fresh and local beer that also has a great taste and great value for our customers.”

That approach seems to be working. Mountain Brew is no longer just a nostalgic name. It’s a fresh contender in a growing market of budget-friendly craft-style beers.

And if the buzz keeps growing, this comeback might just stick around for a while. Local beer lovers are counting on it.

Check Out the Best Breweries in the Capital Region

If you are looking to try a craft beer or cider in the Capital Region, there are a ton of places to choose from. Check out the best breweries in the Capital Region according to the "Best of" poll from Times Union readers.

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