The deal to combine Pyramid Breweries Inc. of Seattle and Vermont-based Magic Hat Brewing Co. appears to be moving along with minimal problems.

The smaller Independent Brewers United Inc. (the parent company of Magic Hat) made a tender offer to buy all of the outstanding common shares of Pyramid stock Tuesday. What does this mean to the regular craft beer enthusiast who lives in Boise?

It is possible you will be able to drink Magic Hat beers in the comfort of your own home in the near future.

The merger of the two craft breweries has been in the works since April, and the boards of directors for both companies have already approved the combination of the companies.

The tender offer, where Magic Hat offered all Pyramid stockholders $2.75 a share, was made Wednesday. Check out the this beer industry blog for more info on the merger and statements from the CEOs both companies.

If it goes through, it seems to be a good fit for both companies. Pyramid — who makes the much loved Pyramid Hefe Weizen, Snow Cap Ale, and Thunderhead IPA — the 5th biggest craft beer producer in the U.S., has had some financial troubles. Pyramid been around since the mid 80s, and I suspect imbibers might have a little brand fatigue at this point.

But Pyramid still makes the best American-style hefeweizen out there, and all their other beers are solid, as well. I think what they need more than anything is a coolness boost.

They should get that from Vermont-based Magic Hat, the 12th biggest craft beer producer in the U.S. Magic Hat, whose products have a goofier, more hippified vibe than Pyramid, has been growing for the last few years.

Their flagship beer is the #9, an interesting but smooth drinking "not quite pale ale" and they make a whole bunch of others intriguing brews as well.

Current Magic Hat CEO Martin Kelly used to have the same job with Pyramid so he knows the company the west coast craft beer market.

The deal seems to make a lot of sense and should open up the west coast and pacific northwest to Magic Hat beers, while giving Pyramid better access to the east coast. If this goes down the way it should, beer drinkers on both coasts should benefit.

I have met more than a few east coast transplants in Idaho who would really enjoy tipping back a #9 on a hot summer night, so keep your fingers crossed.