Author: Rich M

I visited a local brewery and had a great experience this weekend. It was a place that has been around for a few years that I hadn’t made it to. My wife and I have had more time to enjoy ourselves at craft beverage producers since my role has changed in the brewery business. At this brewery we were welcomed by the staff. They offered some great homemade food and a local food truck was offering some other selections. Overall it was one of the best experiences I have had in recent years. As we prepared to leave, one of the family members that owns the brewery approached me and we had a great conversation about what they are doing. It was a great reminder about the brewery experience. As costs rise, we all face challenges, remember, you are not just selling beer, you are selling an experience. Authenticity plays a crucial role when it comes to visiting a brewery. In a world filled with mass-produced beverages, stepping into a brewery offers an opportunity to witness the craft of beer-making firsthand. Authenticity brings forth a sense of connection to the brewing process, the ingredients, and the passionate individuals behind it all. The sights, sounds, and aromas of a working brewery create an immersive experience that cannot be replicated elsewhere. It allows visitors to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship involved in producing a well-crafted beer. Moreover, an authentic brewery visit offers the chance to interact with knowledgeable staff who are eager to share their expertise, answer questions, and provide insights into the brewing techniques and unique characteristics of each beer. This genuine encounter fosters a deeper appreciation for the beverage and a stronger connection to the brewery’s history and values. By embracing authenticity, a visit to a brewery becomes more than just a tasting experience; it becomes a journey of discovery, education, and the celebration of a timeless craft. We definetly will return.

Sunday beer thoughts……I see some small brewers falling into the trap of hosting promotions and accepting sponsorships for other adult beverage brands. In my opinion, they are giving up their long term brand equity for a few dollars. As costs rise and shelf space gets more competitive, the value of your brand becomes more important. If you are not behind your brand why should your customers or employees be?

Promoting your brewery’s brand is of utmost importance in today’s competitive market. Establishing a strong brand presence helps a brewery differentiate itself from the competition and build a loyal customer base. By promoting their brand first, breweries can effectively convey their unique identity, story, and values to consumers. This enables them to create a distinct perception in the minds of their target audience, making it easier for customers to recognize and connect with the brewery’s products.

Sunday’s beer quality thought. I see way too many unattractive beer’s on social media – dead , lifeless, flat, no foam beers. Properly carbonating draft beer is critical to ensuring a great drinking experience. Carbonation not only adds texture and mouthfeel to the beer but also affects its aroma and flavor. Overcarbonated beer can taste sharp and acidic, while under carbonated beer can taste flat and lifeless. Additionally, the proper carbonation level helps to maintain the beer’s head, which not only looks appealing but also enhances the aroma and flavor of the beer. It is essential to maintain proper carbonation levels for each type of beer, which requires testing equipment and expertise. By taking the time to properly carbonate draft beer, bar and restaurant owners can ensure that their customers receive a high-quality product that meets their expectations.

Carbonate and check you beers and go make great beer!

A continuation of my thoughts after recently judging beer in a statewide competition. In the lighter beer categories, there we many good beers and a few great ones.   The good ones were generally well executed, the great ones were a step above.  After thirty years in the business the subtle differences made these award winners really stand out. I strongly suspect that water chemistry was the difference.

 Water chemistry plays a crucial role in the beer-making process because it affects the taste, aroma, and overall quality of the final product. It influences the characteristics of every other ingredient in the brew. Different styles of beer require specific water chemistry to achieve the desired flavor profile. Brewers also need to consider the alkalinity levels of their water, as it can affect the pH and enzymatic activity during the mashing process, which is essential for converting starches into sugars that yeast can ferment. Water chemistry can also impact the clarity and stability of the beer, which is critical for maintaining consistency and quality over time.  Subtle variations can be the difference between good and great beers.

The pH during the brewing process influences the final beer pH and has a huge impact on the overall flavor.  Final beer pH impacts how flavors and aromas come thought in the finished beer. I have linked an older presentation on water chemistry here.  It is only a brief starting point on water chemistry.

Now go make great beer!