Pittsburgh, Pa. – The Duquesne University Department of Athletics announced Wednesday it has partnered with
Helltown Brewing to create a beer inspired by Duquesne University called Bluff 78. To celebrate the release of the beverage, Duquesne will host an event Tuesday, August 26, at Helltown Brewing Taproom in the Strip District from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., located at 1700 Penn Avenue.
"We're excited about joining Helltown Brewing to create a custom Duquesne beer that all fans can enjoy as we get set to begin the 2025-26 season," Duquesne Vice President of Athletics
Dave Harper said. "We're appreciative of Shawn Gentry and Arnie Burchianti ('94) at Helltown Brewing for this unique opportunity that celebrates the history of Duquesne University and will assist in benefiting the department of athletics."
Bluff 78 is an American Lager with a crisp taste that will be available at each of the five locations of Helltown Brewing in the Pittsburgh region, including Butler, Export, Houston, Mt. Pleasant and the Strip District. Bluff 78 will be sold exclusively at Helltown Brewing locations for a limited time and then be available for purchase in other locations throughout the Pittsburgh region.
"As a Duquesne alum, it's a true honor to collaborate with the university on a beer that celebrates its spirit, grit and community," Burchianti said. "Bluff 78 is more than just a brew. It's a tribute to Duquesne University, the people who have shaped it and the pride we carry beyond campus. We're thrilled to partner with Duquesne to bring this to life and can't wait to raise a glass with fellow Dukes."
Bluff 78 will be available at the first Mike's Beer Bar Coaches Show with head football coach Jerry Schmitt Thursday, August 28, while Mike's Beer Bar will also serve as fan headquarters for Duquesne prior to the Dukes taking on Pitt at Acrisure Stadium Saturday, August 30, at Noon for the 2025 season opener.
Helltown Brewing was founded in 2011 and distributes to Pennsylvania, Maryland and West Virginia. It is named after Mt. Pleasant's nickname during the late 1700s Whiskey Rebellion, later dubbed the zip code of 15666.
Duquesne Athletics and Helltown Brewing worked closely to develop this partnership along with Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC), a division of Learfield and Duquesne's trademark licensing agent. Proceeds from Bluff 78 purchases will be allocated to the Duquesne Athletics General Fund, which supports the operations of all Duquesne athletic programs.
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