Redhook Ale Brewery, Inc. (Nasdaq: HOOK) shares are slightly up after the beer maker reported a third-quarter loss of $0.3 million, or $0.03 per share, from a profit of $0.4 million, or $0.04 per share, a year earlier. The firm’s quarterly revenue increased 15% to $12.4 million, from $10.8 million during the same period of 2006.

On Tuesday, Redhook announced it is merging with Portland, Ore.-based Widmer Brothers Brewing Co. The all-stock deal will create one of the largest craft brewers. The two beer makers will remain separate brands.

Redhook’s executives held a morning conference call to discuss the merger and third-quarter results. CEO Paul Shipman said during the call that the company will provide a transcript and recording on its website. Investors reacted positively to the conference call as shares, which had been down all morning, perked up slightly after the call.

The Woodinville, Wash.-based company’s third-quarter gross profit fell slightly to $1.4 million, from $1.6 million during the prior-year period. Selling, general and administrative expenses during the three months ended Sept. 30 rose to $2.4 million, from $1.8 million a year earlier.

In midday trading, HOOK shares are up 0.98%, at $0.06, at $6.16. Over the last 52 weeks, shares have ranged from $4.45 to $8.21.