Herr Gerd Borges, Sailer's head brewmaster and marketing genius, is as controversial as he is innovative. He has purchased smaller breweries and kept their brewing traditions intact, all the while contributing to his own brewery's history, which dates back to 1617. Packaging beer exclusively in swing-top bottles, he has found a niche market that allows him to appeal to the tastebuds, as well as the esthetic values, of the consumer. With Borges' constant brainstorming of new marketing and packaging ideas, Sailer Brau has gained acclaim, not only for its gourmet brews, but also for its famous steins.