Miller counters Anheuser-Busch: prepares for likely spring launch of Ice Draft beer

Insiders said the nation's No. 2 brewer most likely will roll out an ice beer as early as next spring. Already, Chicago-based Leo Burnerr Co. is believed to have won the assignment and is working on creative for the brand, which may be called Miller Ice. Burnett wouldn't comment and referred calls to Miller, which would not comment on new-product plans.

"It's a situation where Miller doesn't want to wait until A-B has some leverage with their brand," said one source.