Tip of the Hat to Craft Beer

I know I generally focus on wine, but I've been feeling the urge to branch out. And here in wine country we are surrounded by brewpubs and breweries. So I went back to my (college) roots and asked my buddies to bring me to speed with Craft Beer, which by the way, is a great way to meet outspoken, clever people (my favorite).

Here are some beer-makers with stories that I uncovered, both in my backyard and across the country.

Jesus loves beer – and Twitter.

Monday Night Brewing in Atlanta (photo above) started as a hobby for a Bible-study group of coat-and tie-office types who used to met after work on Mondays. It went from 12 barrels a month in mid-2011 to 170 barrels a month this year, thanks mainly to Twitter. Folks on Twitter helped pick the logo and suggest names for new beers. 

The brand’s slogan “Weekends are overrated,” is backed with a label showing a man in a suit and tap handles shaped like neckties. 

How Small is Nano?

You thought micro was small, but now nano-breweries are popping up around the country. Take Old Redwood Brewing, in Windsor, CA. Four partners opened the tiny brewery and tasting room in August 2012 and within four hours they sold almost a quarter of their first-month’s production. As with most nanos. Old Redwood Brewing depends on word of mouth, Facebook banter, limited hours and small batches to draw in the curious. If they have any extra beer, they pour it at local fundraisers. 

For my big Craft Beer story about the indies battle with the big boys, you can find it here.

cheers.

Joan