Burning Bush Brewery's 'Da Pope' Beer: A Divine Gift from Chicago to the Vatican
Chicago, known for its football team "Da Bears," now has its own beer called "Da Pope." Illinois Governor JB Pritzker presented Pope Leo XIV with a four-pack of the American Mild Ale from Burning Bush Brewery during their meeting at the Vatican. The brewery's owner, Brent Raska, a Presbyterian minister, names his beers after biblical themes and religious figures, with "Da Pope" being inspired by Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost becoming the first pope from North America and the United States in 2025.
Pritzker, who had previously tasted the beer, decided to gift it to the pope during their meeting. The beer's papal connection made it a top seller for the brewery, with only 36 cans remaining from the initial 1,000 cans released last Memorial Day Weekend. Despite its popularity, the brewery plans to continue producing "Da Pope" in the future.
While it is uncertain if the pope will actually drink the beer, he mentioned putting it in the papal refrigerator. The unique gift has garnered attention and praise for the brewery, highlighting the intersection of religion and brewing in Chicago.