Counterflow Coffee and Bay City Brewing have released Witching Hour, a 5.5% ABV coffee stout that pays homage to Southern California's punk rock spirit and the founders' San Diego upbringing. Following last year's Gambino Coffee Stout, which clocked in at 9% ABV, the new offering aims for wider accessibility with a smoother, lighter, and more coffee-forward profile. The addition of Counterflow's signature cold brew contributes a bold aroma and subtle espresso character, creating a beer that balances intensity with approachability.
Local entrepreneurs from Counterflow Coffee once again teamed up with Bay City Brewing to bring Witching Hour to life. Together, they set out to design a beer that embodies rhythm, taste, and the creative, rebellious energy of Southern California. Austin Pinder, head of brewing at Bay City, explained that the goal was to create something more accessible: “We created a smoother, lighter, and even more coffee-forward flavor.” Geoff Davis of Counterflow added that the beer honors “the punk rock energy that shaped us while keeping it true to San Diego’s craft scene.”
The Witching Hour release party takes place Thursday, November 13, from 6pm to 9pm at Bay City Brewing's downtown location (627 8th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101). The free event will feature Counterflow Coffee’s iconic espresso martinis, and three flavors of Witching Hour will premiere: Apple Pie, Coconut Macadamia Nut, and the Original Witching Hour. A food pop-up by ELE Burger will offer pairings. The collaboration also highlights the creative work of Counterflow Marketing, which developed the visual identity to channel the wistful edge of SoCal punk with a modern, refined aesthetic.
After launch, Witching Hour will be available on tap at Bay City Brewing’s Midway and Downtown locations, as well as distributed to bars and stores throughout Southern California. The beer aims to deliver the perfect balance of craft and caffeine, brewed for nights that linger.
