Duquesne University collabs with Helltown Brewing on new beer

Duquesne University Athletics has teamed up with Helltown Brewing to launch a beer that blends school pride with craft flavor.

The result, Bluff 78, is a lager wrapped in Duquesne’s signature red and blue, offering fans a crisp, refreshing way to toast their team.

“Bluff 78 is more than just a brew,” Arnie Burchianti, co-founder of Helltown Brewing, said in a press release. “It’s a tribute to Duquesne University, the people who have shaped it and the pride we carry beyond campus.”

The name pays tribute to Duquesne’s hilltop setting, with “78” marking the university’s founding year of 1878.

Introducing Bluff 78.

The official beer of Dukes fans ????

Coming soon » https://t.co/qoaokD2COF pic.twitter.com/N7NdvTtCS2

— Duquesne Athletics (@GoDuquesne) July 30, 2025

The idea has been in the works for several years, according to senior associate athletic director Megan Jahrling.

Jahrling said the covid pandemic caused some setbacks at the outset, but she was excited to finally be launching the project.

“The goal is to have something fun for Duquesne alumni, fans, and friends to rally around,” Jahrling said.

Those eager to try Bluff 78 can attend Duquesne’s event on Aug. 26 at Helltown Brewing Taproom in the Strip District from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at 1700 Penn Ave.

On Aug. 28, fans can enjoy the new beer at the first Mike’s Beer Bar Coaches Show with Duquesne football coach Jerry Schmitt.

The bar will also be a “fan headquarters” for Duquesne before the Dukes take on the University of Pittsburgh on Aug. 30 at Acrisure Stadium.

The beer will be exclusively available for a limited time at Helltown Brewing’s five Pittsburgh locations in Butler, Export, Houston, Mt. Pleasant and the Strip District before becoming available at other locations.

The proceeds from the collab will to the athletic department at Duquesne University, impacting over 500 student athletes, Jahrling said.

“It’s a true honor to collaborate with the university on a beer that celebrates its spirit, grit and community,” Burchianti said. “We’re thrilled to partner with Duquesne to bring this to life and can’t wait to raise a glass with fellow Dukes.”