tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51129256238010721062024-03-18T19:43:14.651-05:00Beer in Big DKeeping tabs on the Dallas-Fort Worth craft beer communityUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger818125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-55634253975315349802024-03-09T10:27:00.004-06:002024-03-11T10:14:48.099-05:00Neutral Ground closing brewery in Fort Worth<p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrE7sOoRNtbdoJFSmOZ4xEerplNGAcFHqRUR_u_C6ov053zjo5Vjpw3JYrxhyphenhyphen6imYdj1I_iFSnEIDD1KdqDyuKRDd6EMq_4ihYK4ECvDYcbQSFp-Sbhb-U6M5xnbmz5R7ozUELfJbzDA-LW2XFAhVfgY1SJ4-A7K4emOdxZOJY5ZeE9FWzMnUwI5uvpes/s2400/ng_cl.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="2400" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrE7sOoRNtbdoJFSmOZ4xEerplNGAcFHqRUR_u_C6ov053zjo5Vjpw3JYrxhyphenhyphen6imYdj1I_iFSnEIDD1KdqDyuKRDd6EMq_4ihYK4ECvDYcbQSFp-Sbhb-U6M5xnbmz5R7ozUELfJbzDA-LW2XFAhVfgY1SJ4-A7K4emOdxZOJY5ZeE9FWzMnUwI5uvpes/w640-h334/ng_cl.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit: Neutral Ground Brewing Co.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Neutral Ground Brewing Co. of Fort Worth has announced it will close its brewery in Fort Worth.</p><p>Owners Sean Doublet and Stan Hudson got inspiration for the brewery's name from a historical reference to the disputed border between Texas and Louisiana after the Louisiana Purchase. The "neutral ground" was a hostility-free zone set aside to allow for safe trade until the matter was resolved.</p><p>Their choice also made for a symbolic fit, since Doublet and Hudson came together to open the brewery after having been born on opposite sides the border themselves.</p><p>Taking further influence from Texas' neighboring state, Neutral Ground's flagship beer recalled the Christian feast day of Epiphany, which in Louisiana marks the beginning of Carnival season. This is the time King Cakes are made, so Epiphany was brewed with cinnamon and nutmeg to create a King Cake-inspired ale.</p><p>Reasons for the closure have not been revealed, but Neutral Ground will celebrate its third anniversary on Saturday, March 23, before shutting down operations after the close of business on Friday, March 29.<br /><br /></p><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-5117857168606471282024-03-08T20:15:00.009-06:002024-03-11T10:16:36.590-05:00Voodoo Brewing adds second NTX spot in Plano<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2YpI8DVjbHvts_ulfnG3CfskQUZd8mui7OnR-FNIekwP8RXhi0vKX28Kk5SrZ_l-xBuL5W4qikaU0s_PlG0nETyUUrhOBkXj-VVpdTlymhrftCLmNTeHYQpwpHtVLka7BCpyoyGqohW4evpaOpsSU1dXn53pmO7-cDwc5lTKjJQJ3x75lmLaul-LyAkM/s2400/vdp_blbw2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="2400" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2YpI8DVjbHvts_ulfnG3CfskQUZd8mui7OnR-FNIekwP8RXhi0vKX28Kk5SrZ_l-xBuL5W4qikaU0s_PlG0nETyUUrhOBkXj-VVpdTlymhrftCLmNTeHYQpwpHtVLka7BCpyoyGqohW4evpaOpsSU1dXn53pmO7-cDwc5lTKjJQJ3x75lmLaul-LyAkM/w640-h334/vdp_blbw2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The menu at Voodoo Brewing Co. - Plano features beers like Wynona's Big Brown Ale (a "spontaneous" release),<br />and Cajun-inspired food items like the Bayou Salad with Blackened Chicken ( all images © Brian Brown/Beer in Big D).</td></tr></tbody></table><p><a href="https://www.voodoobrewery.com/" target="_blank">Voodoo Brewing Co.</a> of Pennsylvania has debuted its second franchise taproom in North Texas, this time in the heart of <a href="https://visitdowntownplano.com/" target="_blank">Historic Downtown Plano</a>.</p><p></p><p>Located at 1001 14th St., <a href="https://www.facebook.com/voodooplano" target="_blank">Voodoo Plano</a> is owned and operated by Jennifer and Jeremy Dartez. The brewpub sets up in a 3,900 square foot spot on the ground floor of <a href="https://www.moradaplano.com/" target="_blank">Morado Plano</a>, a five-story development described as an "ultra-modern" apartment community.</p><p>Given the locale and how the space was designed, it's obvious upon entry a different sort of vibe is in order at Voodoo Plano compared to its area predecessor which opened in May of 2023, Voodoo Grand Prairie. The latter, anchoring one end of a retail center, has a suburban bar and grill-type feel, while Voodoo Plano has more of a neighborhood pub quality.<br /></p><p>Different yes, but it's all part of how Voodoo partnerships work. Not only do franchisees have the freedom to make design decisions which give each brewpub its own unique personality, they can also add a bit of personal flavor choice to the food offerings.</p><p>Along those lines, Voodoo Plano takes a cue from the fact that its name is synonymous with New Orleans and the state of Louisiana. As such, the menu has a Cajun flair with items like po'boys, beignets and boudin balls being notable additions to the parent company's base menu of burgers, pizzas, salads, sandwiches and more.</p><p>As for the beer, the bulk of the lineup consists of house beers brought in from The Keystone State, with year-round recipes like Good Vibes West Coast IPA and Voodoo Love Child Belgian Tripel supplemented with both seasonal and spontaneous releases (one of which, Wynona's Big Brown Ale gets high marks). You'll find a little bit of Bayou State influence here as well, with guest selections from <a href="https://abita.com/" target="_blank">Abita Brewing Co.</a> of Covington, Louisiana.</p><p>Other beverages include Voodoo's Elxr hard seltzers, wines, spirits, hand-crafted cocktails, and a bevy of non-alcoholic options like root beer, sodas, and a Nitro Crème Brûlée Coffee drink courtesy of <a href="http://www.thethirstygrowler.com/" target="_blank">The Thirsty Growler</a> in The Colony.</p><p>Voodoo Brewing Co. - Plano held its grand opening today, but going forward the brewpub will serve patrons seven days a week, with hours starting at 11 a.m.<br /><br /></p><p></p><p></p><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-35950337106233366032024-03-06T21:16:00.008-06:002024-03-06T23:58:38.223-06:00Stub's Texas Pils leads list of new beers at Lakewood<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiotTEuYpXAXx-WCGOGYts3vD09zIiW64WvjwXOSsFgKYcYbkDbqkSxSFjaVJ6O5aOjY-YhR7Vrmpt5eOHz9HIev4JUA8owumx0NoxXsneisfVKRvckV3yjU6kRQWiuUWOpqxYviMqsrFu9RFkPX7FkeTQrBcpUEEBl1lOeKUNn6rkf2mDR419WO6pBXZs/s2400/Stub4.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="2400" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiotTEuYpXAXx-WCGOGYts3vD09zIiW64WvjwXOSsFgKYcYbkDbqkSxSFjaVJ6O5aOjY-YhR7Vrmpt5eOHz9HIev4JUA8owumx0NoxXsneisfVKRvckV3yjU6kRQWiuUWOpqxYviMqsrFu9RFkPX7FkeTQrBcpUEEBl1lOeKUNn6rkf2mDR419WO6pBXZs/w640-h334/Stub4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Images courtesy of Lakewood Brewing Co.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Lakewood Brewing Co. of Garland is adding a number of new beers to its portfolio.</p><p>The first of these is Stub's Texas Pils (4.5% ABV), a year-round offering described as a "clear, crisp and refreshing pilsner with a balanced, smooth finish."</p><p>“Classic beer styles have survived a long time for a good reason. Like we say in Texas, ‘If it ain't broke, don’t fix it.’ We created an uncomplicated beer, with quality ingredients, to enjoy at the end of your complicated day,” says Wim Bens, founder and president of Lakewood. “We’re going back to beer flavored beer. Stub’s is a beer you can grab for any occasion.”</p><p>Look for Stub's Texas Pils on tap and in cans throughout Texas. Packaged products are going for "inflation busting" prices of $8.99-$9.99 for a six-pack and $18.99 for a 12-pack.</p><p>Also new are two variations of Lakewood's popular Temptress Imperial Milk Stout. Irish Cream Temptress (9.1% ABV) is available now, while Cookies 'n Cream Temptress (9.1% ABV) is set to hit shelves in April.</p><p>Then, there's Sunburst Wheat (5.5% ABV), the brewery's new spring/summer seasonal. Said to "taste like a Texas sunset," this American-style wheat beer with soft hints of fruit will debut statewide in time for the total solar eclipse on April 8.<br /><br /></p><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-87474177264912413652024-03-03T09:40:00.001-06:002024-03-03T09:41:10.509-06:00Three Wide now wide open in Fort Worth<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbukcS6V48HJMu0xncQpCTVB08nGX6ZGmb2fMUZGdeF8mFe1axMzj6WQ0Hq8HCzvBau73pY46UwCtvx9i8l_btzPby97miJLbF6lPn2MUwsSvbjPA8o8wNMFe7pZQ1rO9g7-SklX96aFT28YSArpTrXajQovDKn1fn8rSZx7nZu-Z08NUv2Y-2sj0aA2Y/s2400/3w_bn2_w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="2400" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbukcS6V48HJMu0xncQpCTVB08nGX6ZGmb2fMUZGdeF8mFe1axMzj6WQ0Hq8HCzvBau73pY46UwCtvx9i8l_btzPby97miJLbF6lPn2MUwsSvbjPA8o8wNMFe7pZQ1rO9g7-SklX96aFT28YSArpTrXajQovDKn1fn8rSZx7nZu-Z08NUv2Y-2sj0aA2Y/w640-h334/3w_bn2_w.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All images © Brian Brown/Beer in Big D.</td></tr></tbody></table><p><a href="https://3widebrewing.com/" target="_blank">Three Wide Brewing Co.</a> has opened in Fort Worth, as the business is celebrating its highly-anticipated debut with Grand Opening festivities this weekend. Located at 16230 Three Wide Dr., the brewery lies just west and within earshot of <a href="https://www.texasmotorspeedway.com/" target="_blank">Texas Motor Speedway</a> (TMS).</p><p>For team members Matt Morriss and Tom Anderson, Three Wide represents a return from down the 'Rabbit Hole,' if you'll recall the <i><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alice%27s_Adventures_in_Wonderland" target="_blank">Alice in Wonderland</a></i>-themed brewery the two helped establish just four miles down the road in Justin. With this new venture, they've joined forces with Hau Lau, Roger Ma and Helen Ma, along with yet another former Rabbit Hole crew member in Joshua Mercer, who takes on the role of head brewer at Three Wide.</p><p>Of course, motorsports fans will know "three wide" is a racing term referring to when cars run side-by-side-by-side across the width of the track. Three Wide's moniker was surely influenced by its proximity to TMS, and it's almost a given the brewery will become a default destination for pre- or post-race day shenanigans.</p><p>One reason is because Three Wide has the makings of a beer drinking, sports-watching mecca. With a bank of eight large widescreens above the main bar, another four encircling an arena-like scoreboard dropping down from the ceiling, and additional TVs along the walls, Three Wide isn't just some bar where you go to watch THE game, it's a brewery you go to when you want to watch ALL the games.</p><p>Plus, patrons can enjoy the ambiance both inside and out on two levels. Downstairs, a covered patio extends the dining area outside, while the upstairs adds a second bar, seating overlooking the brewhouse, and an open-air balcony.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVEQItITMVlrcYWyAFjo6dYVOFGb8o35QE3UDhzaHo56yU_i4D8eef1I7glbdFmcyJ983_bWwQQydXmxIFYhj8ltf12TAqbfklcrKLA2Fx3kOaoW1Q5zbovNi_HEGak20k8UvszHikHp99e9vPGVZJzqwXQkaFhwtHB60hPUzFphR33VCe5OCztLooE3Y/s1200/tw_mid_w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="1200" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVEQItITMVlrcYWyAFjo6dYVOFGb8o35QE3UDhzaHo56yU_i4D8eef1I7glbdFmcyJ983_bWwQQydXmxIFYhj8ltf12TAqbfklcrKLA2Fx3kOaoW1Q5zbovNi_HEGak20k8UvszHikHp99e9vPGVZJzqwXQkaFhwtHB60hPUzFphR33VCe5OCztLooE3Y/w640-h214/tw_mid_w.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Options to eat - Footlong Bratwurst (sauerkraut, caramelized onions, Dijon mustard,<br />grilled baguette), and drink - Wake Up Call (Belgian-style pale ale with coffee).</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Another reason is the eats and drinks. Liquid-wise, Three Wide will pour upwards of 20 house beers into proper glassware on a daily basis. And, fermentation has clearly been underway for a while, since 19 taps were flowing on opening day. Initial style options included six IPAs (English, hazy, double hazy, rye, West Coast, double West Coast) and two stouts, along with a variety of Belgian, English and German offerings.</p><p>Oh, and if anyone was wondering about new takes on former Rabbit Hole recipes making an appearance at Three Wide, one candidate may be a brown ale called Heart of Glass. It's said to be "truly rapturous."</p><p>On the culinary side, Three Wide's kitchen is led by Roger Evaristo, who appropriately enough has done some cooking for NASCAR. The Brazilian-born chef owns <a href="https://azorescraftsausage.com/" target="_blank">Azores Craft Sausages & Charcuterie</a> in Roanoke, so Three Wide is essentially a second location. Look for his menu to feature snacks, burgers, sandwiches, Neapolitan-style pizzas and more.</p><p>Beyond all that, there are attractions like to-go beers (coming soon), board games, giant Connect Four, live music bookings, and something to do with a speakeasy or private event area lurking behind a rotating bookcase. And, let's also not overlook the barrel stacks in the production space. The latter promising barrel-aged beers to be discovered sometime down the road.</p><p>Three Wide Brewing Co. offers service daily, with hours beginning at 11 a.m.<br /><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-75780183778083904692024-02-23T15:19:00.009-06:002024-02-23T20:49:18.473-06:00A first look at Tupps' new location in McKinney<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8d6E8C3eGceFSg5mIPHHHTmPPWrvAMI17O3pzWdTG8ukgLdc5jR2EETzfKPN91fw1MDzevw_giUNcqySsw4JkjzPf4zzVQpU_nBHi1Zr-53w5wsC_CjmXjjY2ybXi542PaGo37Jce2QYXl2hztAwqeqDOs_E0LRAllDLEkRFQPkaKbY5HLANoF0NM8wM/s3000/tupps_balc_w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1570" data-original-width="3000" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8d6E8C3eGceFSg5mIPHHHTmPPWrvAMI17O3pzWdTG8ukgLdc5jR2EETzfKPN91fw1MDzevw_giUNcqySsw4JkjzPf4zzVQpU_nBHi1Zr-53w5wsC_CjmXjjY2ybXi542PaGo37Jce2QYXl2hztAwqeqDOs_E0LRAllDLEkRFQPkaKbY5HLANoF0NM8wM/w640-h334/tupps_balc_w.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view from the balcony outside the rentable office space in the production building at Tupps (all images © Brian Brown/Beer in Big D).</td></tr></tbody></table><p>After over four years in development, <a href="https://tuppsbrewery.com/" target="_blank">Tupps Brewery</a> is finally ready to pull back the curtain on its massive new facility near Downtown McKinney.</p><p>Conversations surrounding a move and expansion for Tupps began in 2019, with an official <a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2020/07/tupps-brewery-moving-to-historic.html" target="_blank">press release</a> announcing the brewery's plans coming in July 2020. The setting for the new showplace to be a 4.3-acre site at 402 E. Louisiana St., with the project involving the repurposing of a 1900s-era grain processing site in the city's Historic Mill District.</p><p>A few finishing touches are still being applied, but Tupps welcomed visitors for a sneak peek during a preview event earlier this week. And to say the multi-faceted, multi-structure campus is impressive would be an understatement to say the least.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaKN9dJM15sUov5wLGxEzCt5PWd8Q4GC14OpF_D0cKTqtPnO_2xr_TE5WBEEZcdvL1030qGyqD6VJHxP-J3KSSIm3hyphenhyphencVME9F4vjQ1q-252JeCEztZevO2GDXKz05aGvRBuEi9AV9es2p5MlaWMAj21Ecfu1phiOvIjaWi_KpeWt2pa6NnXLO5mHlZgBw/s800/tupps_tw2_w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="800" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaKN9dJM15sUov5wLGxEzCt5PWd8Q4GC14OpF_D0cKTqtPnO_2xr_TE5WBEEZcdvL1030qGyqD6VJHxP-J3KSSIm3hyphenhyphencVME9F4vjQ1q-252JeCEztZevO2GDXKz05aGvRBuEi9AV9es2p5MlaWMAj21Ecfu1phiOvIjaWi_KpeWt2pa6NnXLO5mHlZgBw/w512-h257/tupps_tw2_w.jpg" width="512" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tupps at twilight - taproom (left), production building (right).</td></tr></tbody></table><p>The famous saying "everything is bigger in Texas" immediately comes to mind when walking the grounds. Comparing the brewery's new home to its previous digs inspires the obvious modifier, because now everything is bigger at Tupps.</p><p>Taproom? Bigger. Beer Garden? Bigger. Brewhouse? Bigger. You get the idea.</p><p>Beginning with the taproom, it now occupies the original grain milling building. Inside, features include multi-level seating areas, a full kitchen, and a bar backed by a two 20-handle tapwalls fashioned in the shape of giant barrels.</p><p>Just behind it is another building designed to function as an outdoor beer hall. Here, the old taproom will essentially be re-installed, providing a connection for those nostalgic for days spent at the brewery's first location.</p><p>Then, there's yet another building devoted to production - details on that to follow.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFROPLGoaYi_byjOOMqlObcb_dX-m3XvafSqz16Oo4YXGrUinC3PVy22xXm2xyCJLahd-UdsEqXV6orySeo_FHtlYZYbwNDtCCyAB9uOE2uQoiUgsuw_6u5i6CrWmMprJT-h3oTArFu5SZ0ji9EqRygUfYlV1M5fluFpt7ynsOi-IEZ98oFwzYaREa7z4/s1200/tupps_bl_eq_w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="1200" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFROPLGoaYi_byjOOMqlObcb_dX-m3XvafSqz16Oo4YXGrUinC3PVy22xXm2xyCJLahd-UdsEqXV6orySeo_FHtlYZYbwNDtCCyAB9uOE2uQoiUgsuw_6u5i6CrWmMprJT-h3oTArFu5SZ0ji9EqRygUfYlV1M5fluFpt7ynsOi-IEZ98oFwzYaREa7z4/w640-h214/tupps_bl_eq_w.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tupps' brewhouse and equipment (left/right), and barrel-shaped tapwall (center).</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Intermingled are countless other amenities. There's a dedicated kid's area, bocce ball court, swings, permanent vendor space (for the <a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2022/06/tupps-to-launch-build-your-own-business.html" target="_blank">BYOB - Bring Your Own Business - program</a>), and a stage for live music performances fronted by amphitheater-like lawn seating.</p><p>And, if you want to take your concert viewing experience to the next level, you can rent out an office space in the production building. This comes complete with its own kitchen, private bathrooms, and outdoor balcony seating which overlooks the stage below. You might say it's a little like having a suite at the AAC.</p><p>It all leads to the conclusion that Tupps may be a craft brewery first and foremost, but what the company has created with this new space is nothing less than a full-on, family-friendly entertainment destination.</p><p>Plus, the place has character. The historical setting is one thing, but Tupps has also added vintage touches here and there sourced from not only the grain mill, but the family's own treasure trove as well. Some would call them conversation pieces, but 'talking points at Tupps' seems a better turn of phrase.</p><p>More on individual aspects below.</p><p><br /></p><hr width="340" /><p><b>The Beer</b></p><p>Brewing operations have been underway for a number of weeks inside Tupps' four-story, 25,000 square foot production center. Chris Lewis, head brewer at Tupps, is working with a 4-vessel, 60-barrel brewhouse manufactured by Deutsche Beverage & Process. Additional equipment includes a 15-barrel pilot system, along with the requisite array of fermentation tanks.</p><p>"The beauty of this facility is we don't have to brew 24 hours a day," says Lewis. "We've got bigger equipment and we can do a lot more volume, but we've got the same crew from before doing the work."</p><p>Ask what the real game changer is, though, and the answer will likely be the loading dock, which facilitates distro pickup.<br /><br /></p><hr width="340" /><b><br /></b><div><b>The Food</b><p>Leading the kitchen at Tupps is Sean Frye, whose resume includes stints at Jasper's, Abacus and other restaurants founded by Chef Kent Rathbun.</p><p>Frye's everyday menu will be straightforward, but executed at a very high level, according to Chase Lewis, vice president of finance and strategy at Tupps.</p><p>"Kind of what to expect is brewpub-like food," says Lewis. "The menu is loaded with appetizers and bar snacks, but then you've got six awesome sandwiches, two or three salads, and two or three entrees. You're coming here to eat a burger, or a sandwich, or a taco, or maybe something like beer-battered salmon fish & chips."</p><p>A large smoker will also be employed on site, allowing for the creation of go-to barbecue items. And beer-inspired dishes? Those will pop up from time to time too.</p><p>"I want to take craft beeriness and inject that life into the kitchen to do weird, fun, innovative things," says Lewis. "Hopefully some of those ideas will turn into really cool specials."<br /><br /></p><hr width="340" /><b><br /></b></div><div><b>The Economics and Future Outlook</b><p>So, what drove this all-encompassing expansion?</p><p>For Tupps, it wasn't an issue of needing more capacity to fulfill orders for a flagship beer driving the brand, but rather sales data suggesting an increase production was in play for all of its year-round products.</p><p>"As we've grown up, core beers like Juice Pack, Evil Dankster and Tupps IPA have had steady growth for years and years," explains Lewis.</p><p>Given that, rather than chasing trends and being dependent on the success of hype beers that come and go like the breeze, foundational products will be the focus at Tupps going forward.</p><p>"I think stability will be the thing in the next ten years of craft beer," says Lewis. "It's about the stability of your base, and being a trusted brand that makes a good portfolio of different beers you can trust."</p><p>Along those lines, Lewis says balance and drinkability will be key for the future. That, and leveraging the brewery's size, scale and efficiencies to provide value to its customers.</p><p>In other words, Tupps hopes to provide patrons with the ability to enjoy beers they want to come back to, without breaking the bank.<br /><br /></p><hr width="340" /><p><b><br />The Introductory Events</b></p><p>The public's first chance to take in Tupps' new surroundings will be during Festival of Darkness 2024, happening tomorrow - Saturday, February 24 (<a href="https://www.prekindle.com/promo/id/533047295638431170" target="_blank">click here</a> to purchase tickets).</p><p>Grand Opening Weekend takes place March 9-10, with live music on the bill, the soft opening of Tupps Kitchen, and the debut of the BYOB Vendor Space (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/882256703678740" target="_blank">click here</a> for more information).<br /><br /></p><p></p></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-22428122120425947402024-02-22T14:01:00.006-06:002024-02-22T14:46:58.396-06:00Uptown Rail Brewery setting up shop in Sanger<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrfarsqjKV_r5Sf5ZJNh_9d9c66Dp7RH2S_6i7bPfXA1hNwe24JmbfwCvz4kraaDeR3OVeQdimgshNhnlC62feHjtmxA9Lw5DM4kxZ4fDvyzG9t1KVwAWCKpGTg3Gk6_ApEJS5FWC8w_JgVbjcR-pTMO9l8BD334xrhcHp3HoMYaOGp0IxMVP1iTrLrZg/s2400/Uptown%20Rail.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="2400" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrfarsqjKV_r5Sf5ZJNh_9d9c66Dp7RH2S_6i7bPfXA1hNwe24JmbfwCvz4kraaDeR3OVeQdimgshNhnlC62feHjtmxA9Lw5DM4kxZ4fDvyzG9t1KVwAWCKpGTg3Gk6_ApEJS5FWC8w_JgVbjcR-pTMO9l8BD334xrhcHp3HoMYaOGp0IxMVP1iTrLrZg/w640-h334/Uptown%20Rail.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image: Uptown Rail Brewery.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Looking to add to craft beer's presence in the northwestern part of the Metroplex, <a href="https://uptownrail.com/" target="_blank">Uptown Rail Brewery</a> has secured a spot at 204 Bolivar St. for what would be the first business of its kind in Downtown Sanger.</p><p>Founded by Todd and Vanessa Benson, Uptown Rail will occupy a structure with 7500 square feet of usable space, originally built in 1903. According to Todd, plans call for amenities to be set up outside as well, with a focus on making the brewery a family-friendly destination.</p><p>"We plan on having an outdoor green space and a stage for live music, with food trucks making it a fun environment for families to enjoy," says Benson.</p><p>Inside the taproom, Benson expects to have 15-20 house beers available on a daily basis. Uptown Rail's portfolio will consist of a mix of classic and modern styles, with products highlighting the uniqueness of the area - whether it be by way of flavors and ingredients, or by bringing attention to local heritage.</p><p>"We will partner with local farmers and/or suppliers to incorporate fresh, regional produce into our beers," says Benson. "Additionally, we will showcase the history and culture of our region through the branding and marketing of our brewery."</p><p>The goal, quite naturally, is to create a strong connection with area residents, and to attract customers who are interested in supporting a local business.</p><p>As for a timeline, the project is in its early stages, but Benson hopes to be open by mid-to-late summer.<br /><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-31878306450712072182024-02-21T11:32:00.003-06:002024-02-23T20:45:23.871-06:00A visit to Brick Streets, Corsicana's first brewery<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL0iav5EjmMX-_EJTzitth1i1Dx-G9v6UzCTkX6lfY9eikRnkGoUsbM3_ofz3DIxFBw5pl8hyh95ZM3xcIboB_qQqP0zN29c9BrIit0vPwLxVMwuKKF5nZJY2soF5JcrPa3Y-acnqgIN_ZZSrKOrgQZ_H1kjPxulkHmEbNfV8W3AiWpC8uHCRwXAx8Kjs/s2400/bs_blogg_w2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="2400" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL0iav5EjmMX-_EJTzitth1i1Dx-G9v6UzCTkX6lfY9eikRnkGoUsbM3_ofz3DIxFBw5pl8hyh95ZM3xcIboB_qQqP0zN29c9BrIit0vPwLxVMwuKKF5nZJY2soF5JcrPa3Y-acnqgIN_ZZSrKOrgQZ_H1kjPxulkHmEbNfV8W3AiWpC8uHCRwXAx8Kjs/w640-h334/bs_blogg_w2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All images © Brian Brown/Beer in Big D.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Turning off of Business 45 onto 5th Ave. in Downtown Corsicana, it doesn't take long to discern how the city's small batch brewery got its name. <a href="https://brickstreetsbrewery.com/" target="_blank">Brick Streets Brewery</a> sets up at 224 E. 5th Ave., a road inlaid with dark red brick.</p><p>Open since October 2021, Brick Streets is the first known brewery to exist in Corsicana and Navarro County. Owned and operated by Clayton Goins, the brewery's home is a 1700 square foot structure, also made of red brick (albeit with a brighter hue), as are many other neighboring businesses.</p><p>Inside, the taproom and production areas share a unified space. A solid wood bar lines one elevation, fronting the brewhouse and other hardware installed along the sidewall. Wood tabletops, tap handles made out of tree limbs, and hunting trophies on display further complete the spot's rustic country decor.</p><p>Outdoors, a beer garden of roughly the same size flanks the building, a portion of which is covered should you wish to escape the Texas sun while enjoying one of the half-dozen (or so) beverages the brewery has to offer.</p><p>On that note, three house beers were pouring during a recent visit. The best of these was a black IPA called Darth Dankness, while others included Cold Beer, a bolder than expected kölsch, and the aptly named Red Brick Beer, an American-style red ale.</p><p>According to the beertender, Cold Beer is the top-seller, but recipes rotate at Brick Streets regularly. Now and again, visitors might find beers like Siqueness for the Thiqueness NEIPA, the brewery's Session Stout, or a schwarzbier known as Cold Beer Dark on tap.</p><p>As for further attractions, Texas wines are kept on-hand at Brick Streets as well, with selections from <a href="https://www.visit.kuhlmancellars.com/" target="_blank">Kuhlman Cellars</a> of Stonewall available on this occasion. The brewery also has a widescreen TV above the bar for visual diversions, and there is plenty of free parking out back for those making the drive into town.</p><p>Brick Streets Brewery is open four days a week, with evening hours beginning at 4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, followed by a noontime start on Saturday.<br /><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-23388902970328773162024-02-17T20:40:00.017-06:002024-02-23T20:46:45.049-06:00Locals land 19 medals at 2024 Texas Craft Brewers Cup<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRsZjg7oBXqTz4OXS58ugMMcetMJLQUOpi77jQhuEQy0mZZX2RaWy0qGKxFXJh-5SRVVICtiw7xvCwlP-HSiDhB4gD2ZmOVQ-zTndpTeIZQ__mwVOewytN_iWVIoot6PvAQgKkObhLwnOLR4Cw6ShlUos71R3_IlJfp9VfwOGP-zQW9XNjTg1cyfgbQZA/s1200/tcbc_2024.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRsZjg7oBXqTz4OXS58ugMMcetMJLQUOpi77jQhuEQy0mZZX2RaWy0qGKxFXJh-5SRVVICtiw7xvCwlP-HSiDhB4gD2ZmOVQ-zTndpTeIZQ__mwVOewytN_iWVIoot6PvAQgKkObhLwnOLR4Cw6ShlUos71R3_IlJfp9VfwOGP-zQW9XNjTg1cyfgbQZA/w640-h334/tcbc_2024.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit: Texas Craft Brewers Guild.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Results from the 2024 edition of the <a href="https://texascraftbrewersguild.org/cup/" target="_blank">Texas Craft Brewers Cup</a> were announced this evening in Austin, with 14 North Texas breweries recognized for a combined total of 19 beers. And, for the second year in a row, a local got the nod for Brewery of the Year in the Under 600 bbl Group - congrats to Maple Branch Craft Brewery of Fort Worth!</p><p>Organized by the <a href="https://texascraftbrewersguild.org/" target="_blank">Texas Craft Brewers Guild</a>, the Texas Craft Brewers Cup is a competition open to all licensed and operating Texas breweries meeting the criteria of the Guild's "craft brewer" membership definition. Guild membership is not an entry requirement, but out-of-state breweries are not eligible to participate.</p><p>This year, the event drew 956 entries from 170 Texas breweries. Submissions were then evaluated across 31 categories and associated sub-styles based on guidelines published by the <a href="https://texascraftbrewersguild.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/2015_Guidelines_Beer-1.pdf" target="_blank">Beer Judge Certification Program</a> (BJCP) and <a href="https://cdn.greatamericanbeerfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/21_GABF_Beer_Style_Guidelines_Final.pdf" target="_blank">Great American Beer Festival</a> (GABF).</p><p>Notable statistics:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Just over 35% of active Texas breweries competed (170 up from 147 in 2023).</li><li>Hazy IPA repeated as the most-entered style category with 61 entries.</li><li>North Texas swept the Smoke & Chili Beer category.</li><li>North Texas medal count: 6 gold, 6 silver, and 7 bronze.</li></ul><p>Area winners are featured below. For more on the Texas Brewers Cup, <a href="https://texascraftbrewersguild.org/cup/" target="_blank">click here</a> for a full competition summary.<br /><br /></p><a href="https://armorbrewingco.com/" target="_blank">Armor Brewing Co.</a>, Allen<ul><li>Smoked Porter, Gold in the Smoke & Chili Beer category.</li></ul><a href="https://deepellumbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Deep Ellum Brewing Co.</a>, Dallas<div><ul><li>Neato Bandito, Gold in the Golden, Blonde & Light Ales category.</li></ul><div><a href="https://www.dentoncbc.com/" target="_blank">Denton County Brewing Co.</a>, Denton</div></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Devil's Tears, Bronze in the American & International Light Lager category.</li></ul></div><div><a href="https://www.edgewiseeight.com/" target="_blank">Edgewise Eight Brewing</a>, Weatherford</div><div><ul><li>Social Betty Ann, Silver in the Wheat or Rye category.</li></ul></div><a href="https://www.falseidolbrew.com/" target="_blank">False Idol Brewing</a>, North Richland Hills<ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Let it Rip, Gold in the Belgian & Farmhouse Ales category.</li><li>Sinister Shadows, Silver in the Decadent Beer category.</li><li>Squirtle Squad, Bronze in the Belgian & Farmhouse Ales category.</li></ul><div><div><a href="https://www.funkypicnicbrewery.com/" target="_blank">Funky Picnic Brewery & Café</a>, Fort Worth</div><div><ul><li>Why Can't I Be Turboman?, Silver in the Fruit & Field Beer category. </li></ul></div></div><div><a href="https://lakewoodbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Lakewood Brewing Co.</a>, Garland</div><ul><li>Velvet Veil, Bronze in the Strong Hoppy Beer category.</li></ul><div><div><a href="https://www.maplebranchbrew.com/" target="_blank">Maple Branch Craft Brewery</a>, Fort Worth</div><div><ul><li>Raspberry Fields, Gold in the Fruit & Field Beer category.</li><li>Romanov's Revenge, Gold in the Barleywine & Strong Ale category.</li><li>Gigi's Juice, Bronze in the Smoke & Chili Beer category.</li></ul></div></div><div><a href="https://oddmusebrewing.com/" target="_blank">Odd Muse Brewing</a>, Farmers Branch </div><div><ul><li>Rose Colored Glasses, Silver in the Strong Hoppy Beer category.</li></ul><div><a href="https://on-rotation.com/" target="_blank">On Rotation</a>, Dallas</div></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Jalapeño Saison, Silver in the Smoke & Chili Beer category.</li></ul></div><a href="https://tuppsbrewery.com/" target="_blank">Tupps Brewery</a>, McKinney<ul style="text-align: left;"><li>FAYM - Forever Always Your McKinney, Silver in the Legislative Pro-Am category.</li><li>Juice Pack, Bronze in the Hazy IPA category.</li></ul><div><a href="https://www.unionbear.com/" target="_blank">Union Bear Brewing Co.</a>, Denton</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Mexican Lager, Gold in the American & International Lager category.</li></ul></div><div><a href="https://www.vectorbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Vector Brewing</a>, Dallas</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Rubus Rex, Bronze in the Brett & Mixed Culture category.</li></ul><div><div><a href="https://www.whiterockalehouse.com/" target="_blank">White Rock Alehouse & Brewery</a>, Dallas</div><div><ul><li>Big Thicket Blonde, Bronze in the Golden, Blonde & Light Ales category.<br /><br /></li></ul></div></div></div><p>Cheers and congratulations to all!<br /><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-41912934222416361162024-02-13T11:42:00.000-06:002024-02-13T11:42:15.057-06:00Royal Goat targeting Arlington for new brewing venture<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAtTT0XKuAJIItdUoFMX0dxge-iuEhyphenhyphenPhNFiNqUTBkVq4k-_0wpLFvJNHGj0fZI3bRUcTTaUsgqi-kPCQj7QdtFbO__M54bC0L8tKN5sGqi_5-yeEdRTw6NRxK8hN-Mn1umtbdBo5D-pYsLYhk2oWCiR7YyCeZlEwvdmnMA4Wt1ryTEvcYmneCunQpKfc/s1200/rg.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAtTT0XKuAJIItdUoFMX0dxge-iuEhyphenhyphenPhNFiNqUTBkVq4k-_0wpLFvJNHGj0fZI3bRUcTTaUsgqi-kPCQj7QdtFbO__M54bC0L8tKN5sGqi_5-yeEdRTw6NRxK8hN-Mn1umtbdBo5D-pYsLYhk2oWCiR7YyCeZlEwvdmnMA4Wt1ryTEvcYmneCunQpKfc/w640-h334/rg.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit: Royal Goat Brewing Co.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>If all goes as planned, come spring of 2025 an area in the heart of Downtown Arlington will become home to a new brewery with a rather noble-sounding name.</p><p><a href="https://royalgoatbrewingcompany.com/" target="_blank">Royal Goat Brewing Co</a>. will be the culmination of a dream many years in the making for Anthony Byington, a U.S. Army veteran and longtime homebrewer who was formerly a crew member at New Main Brewing Co. of Pantego. For his own venture, Byington hopes to secure a spot within walking distance to nearby Arlington venues, with only a short drive needed to reach major sporting events in the city.</p><p>"We are looking into properties between UTA and the sports district," says Byington. "With a revitalized downtown area, the Levitt Pavilion, and other craft beer locations, we feel that this will position Royal Goat in a great location for those seeking a quaint weekday spot for an after-work beer, or a place to celebrate during an excitement-filled weekend before and after the big game." </p><p>On the brand, the inspiration for Royal Goat's imagery comes from Byington's family crest, which features a goat presiding over the regalia. As can be seen on the <a href="https://royalgoatbrewingcompany.com/" target="_blank">company's website</a>, beer recipes will have a unique "Royal" representative, with each to be displayed in the brewery hall along with a story telling drinkers about its lineage and history.</p><p>Members of the "Royal Court" will include Grand Duke Stout, Dutchess Blonde Ale, Baron Duke IPA, Wise Earl Wit and more, with these style selections to be among an entourage of well-crafted and reliable everyday beers at Royal Goat.</p><p>"Royal Goat will focus on core beer recipes, with two revolving taps for seasonals and special brews," says Byington. "With the ever-changing and rolling craft beer environment, I see an opportunity to fill a void, so we are working hard to create seven solid and popular styles that will always be on tap."</p><p>Of course, Byington recognizes the need to branch out beyond beer to reach other potential customers. With that in mind, Royal Goat will also stock a selection of meads, wines, and a house-made non-alcoholic root beer in order appeal to a variety of tastes.</p><p>For more on Royal Goat, including information on tasting events set to take place in the D-FW area during the development cycle, follow the project on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Royal.Goat.Brewing" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/royalgoatbrewing/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>.<br /><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-62253086078559111642024-02-04T12:47:00.003-06:002024-02-04T13:17:13.682-06:00Glen Echo Brewing a welcome addition to Wylie<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmFMwignbTDJNOZVUyYTov1Lqh0k-j5DNZLH6H2AaWM0aWHVCirzIj33h51uRDjg5Lk3BxzIEo_VfuX2Alf2KV6VwyiTRzguF4FHKY2FX4SFMymR75-IbDMR83vEW86oLor8JkP3BAkmWtoOfLj7Ke6-bNjL6q5SBluTAbr1EiFzY1O_QB4cIV1nr73ig/s2400/ge_bn_w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="2400" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmFMwignbTDJNOZVUyYTov1Lqh0k-j5DNZLH6H2AaWM0aWHVCirzIj33h51uRDjg5Lk3BxzIEo_VfuX2Alf2KV6VwyiTRzguF4FHKY2FX4SFMymR75-IbDMR83vEW86oLor8JkP3BAkmWtoOfLj7Ke6-bNjL6q5SBluTAbr1EiFzY1O_QB4cIV1nr73ig/w640-h334/ge_bn_w.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All images © Brian Brown/Beer in Big D.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>One year after initially <a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/01/glen-echo-working-to-open-brewery-in.html" target="_blank">announcing plans</a> to establish a new brewery in Wylie, <a href="https://www.glenechobrewing.com/" target="_blank">Glen Echo Brewing</a> is now open and operating near the city's downtown district at 106 N. Birmingham St.</p><p>Reading through the company's website, you get the impression owners Steve and Debbie Schoenekase are all about craft beer, conversation and camaraderie. So, it's not surprising to find upon visiting that the couple has created a space exactly in line with those ideals.</p><p>An open and unified floorplan fills the interior of a 4,000 square foot structure occupied by Glen Echo, with the brewery's taproom flanked by the production area off to one side. The atmosphere exudes a chill vibe, with low lights and distractions at a minimum. Families can gather around a board game, but the brewery's projection TV will only emerge for special events.</p><p>Even the seating options (community tables, couches, booths) seem chosen to encourage patrons to come together over a beer. And indeed, they did just that during a soft opening this weekend. Among the steady stream of customers, a fair number of folks clearly knew each other beforehand, meaning Wylie residents made up a majority of the crowd. Naturally, this bodes well for a business looking to make a name as the local, neighborhood brewery.</p><p>As for beer offerings, Glen Echo is still dialing things in as it works to convert recipes originally brewed on a one-barrel setup to an advanced 10-barrel system. Once production is in full swing, look for upwards of a dozen house beers to be pouring on the regular.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIt-Hj316MT7hjXKT8Og95QmxVZBWVhWciHxhij1U36JxhHDQrDAc48xR6-lxesgPDSIdNEFc6EkroCsLoTLxgyUsUCnTU4w6mWhdptncaro8wHpvnh2UD4W7Z0XUF83ezPFZRGyGgulu9qr5_XTnng5s65AHTDxRWygVpEpNvXIydWJopJ8eNEjeXkSA/s1200/ge_bl2_w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="1200" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIt-Hj316MT7hjXKT8Og95QmxVZBWVhWciHxhij1U36JxhHDQrDAc48xR6-lxesgPDSIdNEFc6EkroCsLoTLxgyUsUCnTU4w6mWhdptncaro8wHpvnh2UD4W7Z0XUF83ezPFZRGyGgulu9qr5_XTnng5s65AHTDxRWygVpEpNvXIydWJopJ8eNEjeXkSA/w640-h214/ge_bl2_w.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Full pours and flights of up to six beers are available to enjoy in the taproom at Glen Echo.<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>To start, four beers (kölsch, amber ale, IPA, chocolate milk stout) and an orange seltzer are currently on tap. Of those, future batches of the IPA are expected to be hoppier, and while the chocolate milk stout will likely be a year-round staple, a "stoutier stout" is also in the works.<p>Add to those a bock, a hefeweizen, a non-alcoholic root beer and more to see how Glen Echo is working to build a portfolio favoring classic, everyday drinkers. That said, trendier brews will certainly surface from time-to-time as well.</p><p>Foodwise, Glen Echo stocks daily snacks in the form of a chips and salsa basket, which features a family-size bag of chips, along with either Smoky Red or Spicy Green Salsa from <a href="https://www.zpalmkitchen.com/" target="_blank">ZPalm Kitchen</a> of Garland. Food trucks will provide plates on the weekends too, but patrons are free to bring in outside eats anytime.</p><p>It all makes for a welcome addition to Wylie, not to mention the North Texas beer scene as a whole, considering only a few breweries dot the map on the far eastern edge of the coverage region. One imagines craft beer drinkers local to the area will echo that sentiment as well.</p><p>An official grand opening is still to come, so follow Glen Echo's social media channels (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/GlenEchoBrewing" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/glenechobrewing" target="_blank">Instagram</a>) for the latest information. Once regular service begins, the brewery will have hours Wednesday-Sunday. An important note, with parking not available on site (the concrete pad out front is for patio seating), drivers should seek out the free lot one block over and directly behind the brewery on N. Jackson Ave.<br /><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-80919234188244290722024-02-01T10:32:00.001-06:002024-02-01T11:06:50.982-06:00Lakewood and Oak Highlands notch nine wins at 2024 USBTC Winter Competition<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQbw5_sKAt7Lvr53cJiIcFEzKKGBcmyqoNXxIj8iX_9du_hyphenhyphendqaj-BFs92veXano5_0tVeYLISbUrzq5-TSR-e8ZBdOPOpCscJ7VDr4DH2tTew8XRTLD_oxlxsacMQ_BmK1W3rOJ1KvJewAnXEVY3lbNMeuV20DCJIWUuxJ-IDao-cWiBDlfy69Gn4scU/s2400/usbtc2024w.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="2400" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQbw5_sKAt7Lvr53cJiIcFEzKKGBcmyqoNXxIj8iX_9du_hyphenhyphendqaj-BFs92veXano5_0tVeYLISbUrzq5-TSR-e8ZBdOPOpCscJ7VDr4DH2tTew8XRTLD_oxlxsacMQ_BmK1W3rOJ1KvJewAnXEVY3lbNMeuV20DCJIWUuxJ-IDao-cWiBDlfy69Gn4scU/w640-h334/usbtc2024w.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credits: United States Beer Tasting Championship, Oak Highlands Brewery, Lakewood Brewing Co.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>This past weekend, the <a href="http://www.usbtc.com/" target="_blank">United States Beer Tasting Championship</a> (USBTC) completed judging for its 30th Anniversary Winter Competition. And, based on the two winning breweries from North Texas, it seems there may be something in the water around a particular area of Northeast Dallas County.</p><p>Lakewood Brewing Co. of Garland and Oak Highlands Brewery of Dallas, breweries located just two miles apart, received recognition for their beers in 9 of the 18 available style categories while competing in the Rockies/Southwest Division of the competition.</p><p>These results are just the latest accolades for the neighboring breweries at the USBTC, whose organizers host both a summer and winter event annually. In fact, counting this year's tallies, Oak Highlands has now placed 40 times at the USBTC - dating back to 2016, while Lakewood has landed 24 awards over the same time period.</p><p>A rundown of winning beers from North Texas is provided below. For more on the 2024 USBTC Winter Competition, visit the official website at <a href="http://www.usbtc.com.">www.usbtc.com.</a><br /><br /></p><p><a href="https://lakewoodbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Lakewood Brewing Co.</a>, Garland</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Bourbon Barrel Temptress, Regional Champion in the Whiskey Barrel-Aged Porter/Stout category.</li><li>Lion's Share XI, Regional Champion in the Barleywine category.</li><li>Temptress, Regional Champion in the Imperial Stout category.</li><li>Punkel, Regional Champion in the Spice/Herb Beer category.</li></ul><p></p><p><br /><a href="http://www.oakhighlandsbrewery.com/" target="_blank">Oak Highlands Brewery</a>, Dallas</p><p></p><ul><li>Bourbon Barrel Freshman 15, Regional Champion in the Whiskey Barrel-Aged Beer category.</li><li>Devil's Snare, Regional Champion in the Porter category.</li><li>Royal Scottie, Regional Champion in the Scottish-Style Ale category.</li><li>Vanilla Porter, Regional Champion in the Bean Beer category.</li><li>JR All the Way, Regional Champion in the Holiday Spice Beer category.</li></ul><div><br /></div><div>Cheers and congratulations to Lakewood and Oak Highlands!<br /><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-74030845154451449832024-01-18T20:54:00.004-06:002024-01-18T20:54:41.812-06:00Lakewood taps next generation of brewing talent with UTA<p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlys1ltq7dmHT_gZv63-Pvjrf2n9A5tL2XV9KJIubsrpVcLG2gYs2_MncjFvf6jCThiqYUedB5U3-ccZgiZLHVDGyKfolJFdL8LwKWWdtac0HZ1dZuoyodOlRN8NY7oLpu5z3DNXfd2du275L-c83gnTj_oUG5FHK2PN8UmAOWUjZ1odK3Lt3r-mnzoMk/s1200/lbc_uta.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlys1ltq7dmHT_gZv63-Pvjrf2n9A5tL2XV9KJIubsrpVcLG2gYs2_MncjFvf6jCThiqYUedB5U3-ccZgiZLHVDGyKfolJFdL8LwKWWdtac0HZ1dZuoyodOlRN8NY7oLpu5z3DNXfd2du275L-c83gnTj_oUG5FHK2PN8UmAOWUjZ1odK3Lt3r-mnzoMk/w640-h334/lbc_uta.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credits: Lakewood Brewing Co., The University of Texas at Arlington.<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Expanding on its educational efforts, <a href="https://lakewoodbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Lakewood Brewing Co.</a> of Garland is working with another local university to help bring up the next generation of brewing talent.</p><p>Lakewood's latest collaboration is with <a href="https://www.uta.edu/" target="_blank">The University of Texas at Arlington</a>, an institution offering a new <a href="https://web-ded.uta.edu/wconnect/ShowSchedule.awp?&Mode=GROUP&Group=CERBFC&Title=Brewing+and+Fermentation+Certificate&SubGroup=CER" target="_blank">Brewing and Fermentation Science Certificate</a>. <a href="https://www.uta.edu/academics/faculty/profile?username=dparks" target="_blank">Dylan Parks, Ph.D.</a>, biology assistant professor of instruction and former Lakewood lab technician, is head of the four-course certificate program, and the brewery is helping provide hands-on experience for participants (students, hobbyists, or those simply curious).</p><p>Designed to teach concepts from the ground up, Dr. Parks has developed a curriculum including the following courses:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>The Science of Brewing</li><li>Fermentation Science</li><li>Brewing Lab</li><li>Sensory Evaluation, QA/QC, and Product Design<br /><br /></li></ul><div>There will also be a requirement for a 16-hour internship at a local fermentation or brewing facility, for which Lakewood is one of the first to participate.</div><p></p><p>“Hands-on experience is critical to anyone that is going to go on and work in a production facility, whether it be a winery, brewery, cidery, or distillery,” says Wim Bens, founder and president of Lakewood. “It’s important to have an educated workforce, or to even power someone’s future hobby – that’s how I started, and I’m stoked to help others go that path.”</p><p>Bens is a graduate of <a href="https://www.smu.edu/" target="_blank">Southern Methodist University</a>, a school he also worked with following the <a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/07/lakewood-saddles-up-pony-pils-new-smu.html" target="_blank">launch of Pony Pils</a>, a beer Lakewood made for Mustang fans. After a successful debut this summer, SMU added Pony Pils to its concession offerings at home football and basketball games. The beer also has an associated scholarship, with $1 from every case sold going to the LBC Future Brewer STEM Scholarship.<br /><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-59074661623062423162024-01-11T12:06:00.001-06:002024-01-11T12:06:13.817-06:00Funky Picnic launches Dry Bar Pop-Up, a mocktail experience<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkWHgT6mJwgaXZt1-xQdIcULdd9XNeHH-oVqTNoAsD4Ts4kMDTr7vDW2wY_Kh80Jdkkp8MP2B3GDKuhP4gFcutUSNX2l4eH4JfSCPPKtAEHtPybYRxhjSVlOGWlm7ZDO6XFM-QbeUkquh0B72dJC8rHmfXw7IDbWsLiCJQ0QCBzoPK65dgRU7cKHAUqHA/s2400/fp_dbpu.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="2400" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkWHgT6mJwgaXZt1-xQdIcULdd9XNeHH-oVqTNoAsD4Ts4kMDTr7vDW2wY_Kh80Jdkkp8MP2B3GDKuhP4gFcutUSNX2l4eH4JfSCPPKtAEHtPybYRxhjSVlOGWlm7ZDO6XFM-QbeUkquh0B72dJC8rHmfXw7IDbWsLiCJQ0QCBzoPK65dgRU7cKHAUqHA/w640-h334/fp_dbpu.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mocktail offerings in The Back Room at Funky Picnic: I Know That She's Pretty (top left), Mule Love This Too (top right), Mochaccino Martini (bottom).</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Over the last couple of years, it's been noted how breweries have begun to offer alternative drinks and experiences as a way to expand their customer bases. Following through on this approach seems particularly important in light of Dry January and the growing demand for alcohol-free alternatives.</p><p>As such, <a href="https://www.funkypicnicbrewery.com/the-back-room" target="_blank">The Back Room</a> at <a href="https://www.funkypicnicbrewery.com/" target="_blank">Funky Picnic Brewery & Café</a> has launched its Dry Bar Pop-Up, bringing a refreshing twist to the world of mocktails and sober lifestyles. The Dry Bar Pop-Up will kick off this weekend, January 11-13 from 5-9 pm, and will continue to enchant guests with celebrations of liquor-free flavor on select dates throughout the month.</p><p>At the heart of the Dry Bar experience is the innovative Build-Your-Own Mocktail Bar, where patrons collaborate with skilled bartenders to craft customized drinks. From selecting glassware to choosing syrups, garnishes and more, the Build-Your-Own Mocktail Bar offers a unique and interactive journey into the art of mocktail mixology.</p><p>Funky Picnic’s Dry Bar Pop-Up also features an array of signature mocktails, including year-round favorites like Resolution Solution, a tantalizing blend of hibiscus, ginger, lemon, lime, Topo Chico, and tajin. Other standouts include I Know That She's Pretty (pink lavender syrup, lemon juice, angostura bitters & soda water), Mule Love This Too (apple butter, lime juice, ginger beer), and the Mochaccino Martini, a sober twist on the classic espresso martini.</p><p>"We are thrilled to introduce the Dry Bar Pop-Up to our community," says Samantha Glenn, co-owner of Funky Picnic. "With the rising interest in mindful drinking and Dry January, we wanted to create a space where individuals can savor exceptional mocktails and celebrate their commitment to a sober lifestyle."</p><p>While some of the signature mocktails are year-round staples available on the Funky Picnic menu, the full list of Signature Mocktails and the Build-Your-Own Mocktail Bar will only be available during select dates in January in Funky Picnic’s private event space, The Back Room (check the brewpub's <a href="https://www.funkypicnicbrewery.com/" target="_blank">website</a> for details). Funky Picnic’s full food, beer, and cocktail menus will also be available, making it a perfect date night to keep resolutions going strong.<br /><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-79581426884889169682023-12-31T16:48:00.012-06:002024-02-18T21:24:10.244-06:00Jaquval, a new small-batch brewpub, now open in Bishop Arts<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW01bVOUGADGauNLa3i6g3N7JyeJrJeHO1lrlXPeLS7a2oGQXzbwXyDryFtYggQ2W8r0v3HQzd7Js8WirkXudRgIqp-iCBNNYWTc2PvdTRVk0CeoViEJiyXf151N9hvqBEDWV2wN1jCQ9D2O6YO0C82HXQhtrc44GAD1AGjZDBektqWTJ7uWoeGpd6hlc/s2400/jaq_bn_w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="2400" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW01bVOUGADGauNLa3i6g3N7JyeJrJeHO1lrlXPeLS7a2oGQXzbwXyDryFtYggQ2W8r0v3HQzd7Js8WirkXudRgIqp-iCBNNYWTc2PvdTRVk0CeoViEJiyXf151N9hvqBEDWV2wN1jCQ9D2O6YO0C82HXQhtrc44GAD1AGjZDBektqWTJ7uWoeGpd6hlc/w640-h334/jaq_bn_w.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All images © Brian Brown/Beer in Big D.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>It may be surprising to learn that the <a href="https://www.bishopartsdistrict.com/" target="_blank">Bishop Arts District</a> of <a href="https://gooakcliff.org/" target="_blank">Oak Cliff</a> has never been home to a brewery. This, despite the Dallas neighborhood's long history of celebrating local beer, especially during the years it hosted the <a href="https://www.brewriot.com/" target="_blank">Brew Riot Homebrew Competition</a>. Today though, thanks to the work of Jason Roberts and Amy Wallace Cowan, it's an element the neighborhood is no longer missing.</p><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/jaquval/" target="_blank">Jaquval Brewing Co.</a> is the newest concept from <a href="https://www.cowanroberts.com/" target="_blank">Cowan Roberts</a>, a partnership behind three other businesses operating in Bishop Arts: <a href="https://www.ajvagabonds.com/" target="_blank">A.J. Vagabonds</a>, <a href="https://www.oddfellowsdallas.com/" target="_blank">Oddfellows</a> and <a href="https://www.revelershall.com/" target="_blank">Revelers Hall</a>. In fact, Jaquval slots into a spot directly adjacent to Oddfellows at 312 W. 7th St.</p><p>And, since the subject is bound to come up, knowing how to say the name Jaquval is just a matter of knowing what it's all about. You see, Jaquval is a play on the idea of being a jack-of-all trades kind of place. To that end, once an attached deli called Trades is up and running in about a month (thus, bringing together the Jaquval Trades vision), crews on site will bake their own bread, brew their own beer, roast their own coffee beans, smoke their own meats and more. Output will feed Jaquval, as well as its two sister businesses on the block.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1_SSfxiFxUfzNHYP8ewgP77Y_LKaOrFlAnzdJlh7lnqH1L3tLvRwwVeBTX9PEaYI7JU8tqCmBkkXsHVlxsdf0y1MfBFRygcyocqWBwz-mvZ75nR983iQDOCgEJy56PWthQMmH7MO5mN2Rgzdvq-TVsLJCnLLh6sMppQOz5pvzhq4B8XY6Ypo0w5H1IPI/s1200/jq_in_w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="1200" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1_SSfxiFxUfzNHYP8ewgP77Y_LKaOrFlAnzdJlh7lnqH1L3tLvRwwVeBTX9PEaYI7JU8tqCmBkkXsHVlxsdf0y1MfBFRygcyocqWBwz-mvZ75nR983iQDOCgEJy56PWthQMmH7MO5mN2Rgzdvq-TVsLJCnLLh6sMppQOz5pvzhq4B8XY6Ypo0w5H1IPI/w640-h214/jq_in_w.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The small-batch brewhouse at Jaquval is installed along the brewpub's back elevation.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Of course, beer is always the word of the day here, so it should be mentioned that brewhouse recipes are the domain of Justin Hatley, who comes to Jaquval after more than a decade at Lakewood Brewing Co. of Garland. For Jaquval, he'll produce four "Main Stays," along with an internationally-inspired slate of "Rotational" offerings.</p><p>In line with the plan, everyday beers will consist of Bishop Arts Lager, Iron Swan Porter, Rabble Rabble Coffee Stout and The 405 West Coast IPA, while the rotator menu currently teases a Honey Butter Hefeweizen, Czechmate (Czech amber lager), Bon Bière (French-style pilsner) and This Charming Ale (English best ale).</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_yKpiFREtpPokk0hcgYmrHtcayE18PcaCagEK0kxUUZaD6hg62S5oqdSwhDA3RbEqMTy_L9YQHhBMBll4Flw9RvYAZIhEcqu9-IBJIIxq3nRskS7sNlGG2mngacNWwRFmHhVlrT9jHKldBzZ7Mm08Yxv0_km5UNIdjN8dJAi3G28qvpWXc-jETFvT0Jg/s1200/jq_in2_w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="1200" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_yKpiFREtpPokk0hcgYmrHtcayE18PcaCagEK0kxUUZaD6hg62S5oqdSwhDA3RbEqMTy_L9YQHhBMBll4Flw9RvYAZIhEcqu9-IBJIIxq3nRskS7sNlGG2mngacNWwRFmHhVlrT9jHKldBzZ7Mm08Yxv0_km5UNIdjN8dJAi3G28qvpWXc-jETFvT0Jg/w640-h214/jq_in2_w.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A pairing of Rabble Rabble Coffee Stout with the brewpub's Grilled Sausage Plate.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>As far as the vibe at Jaquval, the look both inside and out is reminiscent of a quaint old-style tavern. Dark wood furnishings and accents intermingle with a quirky decor made up of what's best described as a little of this, a little of that, and whatever else they could find to put up on the walls. It's a pub, with proper pub food (burger, fish & chips, French dip, sausage plate), and not anything like a sports bar.</p><p>Fittingly then, amenities at Jaquval include just one television, a chess board, and a hand-operated turntable (at least for now). In other words, outside of special events, patrons visiting Jaquval for a beer and a bite should expect to fill the time with conversation and camaraderie. But hey, they say fostering a sense of community is what a pub is all about.</p><p>Jaquval has been operating on a soft basis up to now as it introduces items on its menu, but look for the spot to officially open later this week.<br /><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-1229859808266450762023-12-27T09:35:00.008-06:002024-01-03T23:53:12.556-06:002023 Year in review: Record movement in and around The Metroplex<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp4Eso4qlaxKvUeEqQQnfdiBiv67om75V381WIwsjBXvzDvnxKwhBSgLXUbTHpHzp1fBVkOlwFGoxo40O5_SCQ_8joLP9oEXqxF2zDyBmaUOZ0oYWbyIb4O6xphqIYU3eWhYJMernw9tVdDX02Qe-e1mHzeCgYQHhlFHzPqSg3RAGF_XWc-zXguXMoKmY/s1600/scene2024.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="836" data-original-width="1600" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp4Eso4qlaxKvUeEqQQnfdiBiv67om75V381WIwsjBXvzDvnxKwhBSgLXUbTHpHzp1fBVkOlwFGoxo40O5_SCQ_8joLP9oEXqxF2zDyBmaUOZ0oYWbyIb4O6xphqIYU3eWhYJMernw9tVdDX02Qe-e1mHzeCgYQHhlFHzPqSg3RAGF_XWc-zXguXMoKmY/w640-h334/scene2024.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All logos and graphics the property of their respective owners. Image: Brian Brown/Beer in Big D.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Let there be no doubt, it's been a dynamic and challenging year in the North Texas beer industry, with new highs recorded in both openings and closings among the roster of local breweries. The news isn't all bad, but it isn't good either, as breweries on the cusp have gone public with struggles and even resorted to fundraisers in an effort to stay afloat.</p><p>Taking stock, an increase in closures shouldn't come as a surprise. For several years, market headwinds have been a hot topic of discussion in industry groups, with the <a href="https://www.brewersassociation.org/" target="_blank">Brewers Association</a> at the forefront <a href="https://www.brewersassociation.org/year-in-beer/" target="_blank">sounding the alarm</a>.</p><p>What's causing the headwinds? In addition to the after-effects of the pandemic, the BA points to slowing demand, declines in draft sales, and reduced shelf space for craft beer at retailers. Increasing competition exacerbated by the influx of other alcohol segments is certainly playing a role across the board, but the draft and retail bits have been a factor for some time. These being a catalyst to the rise of taprooms and the push for passage of beer to go legislation.</p><p>Locally, reasons for closing have mostly centered around the familiar refrain of the pandemic's influence on inflation, the supply chain, and staff retention. Increased operating costs aggravated by rising rents have convinced some to decline lease renewals, while undercapitalization and a general lack of local support have contributed to the demise of others.</p><p>Given the choppy waters, what maybe is surprising is the continued momentum behind new projects. Some current owners say they never would have opened a brewery if met with today's market environment at startup. Even still, a new breed of undeterred entrepreneurs appears ready to take on the difficulties of a crowded market in the midst of a flat growth period.</p><p>And there, perhaps, is an important point. Some see the rate of closures and start talking shakeout, but so far this isn't like how the bubble burst on the brewpub era of the late 1990s. In that case, the number of breweries in North Texas dropped by half over the course of five years, with no one waiting in the wings to fill the gaps. This was followed by an extended period of industry stagnation.</p><p>Right now, things have simply leveled off after a decade of continual growth, with openings and closings offsetting. So, will the trend continue, will the number of wort wranglers rise again, or is there a reckoning still to come? Pundits will have their predictions, but only time will tell.</p><p>With that, let's dive into more details on the 2023 year in beer.<br /><br /></p><p><b>The Business of Beer - Local Dealings</b></p><p>In response to the headwinds, the BA has suggested a need to innovate, while also engaging in strategies to reach new and existing customers with new flavors and new experiences. Indeed, as we've seen in recent times (and past year in review articles) local breweries have been doing just that since before the pandemic.</p><p>For example, most locals have explored new flavors beyond beer, like hard seltzer, hop water and kombucha. A list of items introduced in 2023 would include <a href="https://society-spirits.com/" target="_blank">Society Spirits</a> - an in-house small-batch spirits program at <a href="https://communitybeer.com/" target="_blank">Community Beer Co.</a> of Dallas, the expanded line of branded spirits (produced by a local distillery) at <a href="https://www.rollertownbeerworks.com/" target="_blank">Rollertown Beerworks</a> of Celina, "Oh, Snap" craft sodas at <a href="https://www.hopfusionaleworks.com/" target="_blank">HopFusion Ale Works</a> of Fort Worth, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/palopintococktails/" target="_blank">Palo Pinto Craft Cocktails</a> from <a href="https://martinhousebrewing.com/" target="_blank">Martin House Brewing Co.</a> of Fort Worth.</p><p>On new flavors in beer, it's worth mentioning a brewery that stepped far outside of its comfort zone in 2023.<a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/09/four-bullets-reshuffles-ownership-group.html" target="_blank"> Four Bullets Brewery</a> of Richardson, traditionally a maker of English-inspired ales, brewed a hazy IPA for the first time in its eight-year history. The company's Ace in the Haze IPA debuted in early December.</p><p>There's also the topic of low-ABV or non-alcoholic beers, which up to now have only been attempted by a few producers (Community Beer Co. of Dallas, <a href="https://www.funkypicnicbrewery.com/" target="_blank">Funky Picnic Brewery & Café</a>), the latest being <a href="https://www.turningpointbeer.com/beer" target="_blank">Turning Point Beer</a> of Bedford, who just days ago dropped <a href="https://fb.watch/paTQsCVsT5/" target="_blank">The Reverend Green, a non-alcoholic West Coast IPA</a>.</p><p>Of course, pairing those beverages with food is another avenue for adding flavor. Among the food-service enhancements for 2023: <a href="https://www.saywhenbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Say When Brewing Co.</a> of Denison began offering made-to-order pizzas in July, while <a href="https://divisionbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Division Brewing</a> of Arlington <a href="https://www.dallasobserver.com/restaurants/first-look-pizza-and-burgers-at-division-brewing-in-arlington-17859446" target="_blank">opened an additional spot</a> across from its production facility, where they've been serving a menu of house-made burgers and pizza since October.</p><p>Shifting the focus to new experiences, five local brewing companies added new locations in 2023. Union Bear Brewing Co. of Plano kicked off the year by <a href="https://communityimpact.com/dallas-fort-worth/mckinney/development/2023/01/12/union-bear-plans-expansion-to-downtown-mckinney/" target="_blank">announcing plans to open a restaurant-only location in McKinney</a> sometime in 2024. This was followed by <a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/09/union-bear-shares-first-details-of.html" target="_blank">news in September</a> surrounding the acquisition of Armadillo Ale Works' former facility in Denton. Union Bear's taproom there is still under construction, but beer production started in October.</p><p>Elsewhere, <a href="https://www.whiterockbrewingco.com/" target="_blank">White Rock Brewing Co.</a> of Dallas <a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/04/white-rock-brewing-co-opens-new-digs-in.html" target="_blank">unveiled new digs</a> off Beckley Ave. in April, <a href="https://3nationsbrewing.com/" target="_blank">3 Nations Brewing Co.</a> of Carrolton opened <a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/09/3-nations-celebrates-opening-in-anna.html" target="_blank">an Anna satellite</a> in September, <a href="https://www.soulfirebrewing.com/" target="_blank">Soul Fire Brewing Co.</a> of Roanoke launched its <a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/04/soul-fire-setting-up-second-location-in.html" target="_blank">Cleburne space</a> in November, and <a href="https://www.bankheadbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Bankhead Brewing Co.</a> added to its roster of brewpubs in Rowlett and Fort Worth with a <a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/12/bankhead-opens-newest-brewpub-in.html" target="_blank">Farmers Branch locale</a> in December.</p><p>As for others upgrading aspects of their brand experience, <a href="https://happyhippiebeer.com/" target="_blank">Happy Hippie Brewing Co.</a>, transitioned from an alternating proprietorship at Hop & Sting Brewing Co. of Grapevine to its own <a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/10/happy-hippie-opens-far-out-fermentation.html" target="_blank">brick-and-mortar location in Richardson</a>, the opening act taking place there in October.</p><p>And, while it's on a smaller scale, <a href="https://intrinsicbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Intrinsic Smokehouse & Brewery</a> of Garland literally propped up its taproom experience with the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=720069470164816&set=a.561404806031284" target="_blank">installation of a rooftop deck</a>. Completed in October, it's proven to be a popular spot for elevated imbibing.</p><p>Looking ahead to 2024, <a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/01/glen-echo-working-to-open-brewery-in.html" target="_blank">Glen Echo Brewing</a> of Wylie, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bhbrewery" target="_blank">Black Hawk Brewery</a> of Prosper and <a href="http://3widebrewing.com/" target="_blank">Three Wide Brewing</a> of Fort Worth are weeks away from opening. The same can be said for <a href="https://tuppsbrewery.com/" target="_blank">Tupps Brewery</a>, as they put the finishing touches on a <a href="https://tuppsbrewery.com/new-location/" target="_blank">new site in McKinney</a>.</p><p>On the horizon: Balanced Rock Brewing of The Colony, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/beardedaxbrewery" target="_blank">Bearded Ax Brewery</a> of Midlothian, <a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/05/fate-to-be-tempted-by-new-beer-geeks.html" target="_blank">Beer Geeks Brewery</a> of Fate, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eastdallasbrewingcompany/" target="_blank">East Dallas Brewing Co.</a> of Dallas, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/forneybrewing" target="_blank">Forney Brewing Co.</a> of Forney, <a href="https://www.smittoxbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Smittox Brewing Co.</a> of Dallas, <a href="https://texasfoothills.square.site/" target="_blank">Texas Foothills Distillery</a> of Bowie, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/toastybrosbeer" target="_blank">Toasty Bros.</a> of Denton (permanent location) and <a href="https://www.villagecreekbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Village Creek Brewing Co.</a> of Rendon.<br /><br /></p><p><b>The Business of Beer - Statewide Statistics </b></p><p>The 2022 economic update from the Brewers Association has Texas ranked fourth in production nationally (up from sixth in 2021), with 1.3 million barrels produced (up from 1.13 million). Statistics related to the state's total brewery count in 2022 were flat compared to 2021: 407 breweries (up from 406), 1.9 breweries per capita (down from 2) - ranking 47th (steady). </p><p>On total economic impact, Texas was third (steady), contributing over $4.5 billion to the economy (down from $4.9 billion). The state's brewing industry employed just over 27,000 full-time equivalent workers in 2021 (down from 30,000), paying almost $1.3 billion in wages and benefits, with an average annual salary of $47,237 (down from 1.5 billion and $49,984).</p><p>For 2023, tracking shows nearly 60 new brewery openings across Texas (up from ~40 in 2022), with 30 or more closures (likely a low count, considering a fair percentage would be from North Texas alone).</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzoS-g2kosCRLDIOa4dFWrGC-FY_vk2ccJUinTbG87TLkUyiGCbA7v3Ha4RCq0UdDB35uP6RZZfnNJXhYYOHiKkWlEirh_aEBimRdYlZwq9llWnqDW3oouL-SXP4FXeRAouJ9GR4_TOFzG-G76dJTul24aTqSqWh1vDqIHrA8ZHS6XObPyJrkfEkGi_mw/s899/2022%20State%20Economic%20Impact%20-%20GA.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="526" data-original-width="899" height="331" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzoS-g2kosCRLDIOa4dFWrGC-FY_vk2ccJUinTbG87TLkUyiGCbA7v3Ha4RCq0UdDB35uP6RZZfnNJXhYYOHiKkWlEirh_aEBimRdYlZwq9llWnqDW3oouL-SXP4FXeRAouJ9GR4_TOFzG-G76dJTul24aTqSqWh1vDqIHrA8ZHS6XObPyJrkfEkGi_mw/w568-h331/2022%20State%20Economic%20Impact%20-%20GA.jpg" width="568" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image/Data: Brewers Association.<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><b>Comings and Goings</b><p>In North Texas, there were 16 new openings offset by 14 closings and consolidations during 2023.</p><p>Regarding the latter number, the consolidations qualifier is used to account for acquisitions or cases where active companies have reduced their number of licensed locations. Examples include the acquisition of Grapevine Craft Brewery by Hop & Sting Brewing Co. in 2018, and the assumption of Noble Rey Brewing Co.'s portfolio by Nocona Beer & Brewery in 2019.</p><p>There's also Malai Kitchen, who consolidated brewing operations in Southlake under the new Malai Brewing moniker, after the company had previously managed other licensed locales in Dallas (expiring in 2022) and Fort Worth (expiring in 2023). Consolidations also occurred this year at White Rock Brewing Co. and Pegasus City Brewery of Dallas.</p><p>Geographically, new projects still target suburban areas, but the City of Dallas landed four developments this year - the most for "Big D" since 2018. Fort Worth, conversely, hasn't been home to a new opening for over two years. As for the future, both cities appear in the list of breweries either under construction or development, viewable by clicking the <a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/p/dallas-breweries-in-development.html" target="_blank">"In Development"</a> tab at the top of the page.</p><p>Summing up the overall state of affairs entering 2024, there are now 93 active brewing operations in North Texas. After accounting for side projects and breweries with multiple locations, consumers can pick from 90 different brands of local beer in the market.</p><div>Openings:</div><div><ul><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/09/3-nations-celebrates-opening-in-anna.html" target="_blank">3 Nations Brewing Co.</a>, Anna.</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/09/armor-has-craft-beer-covered-in-allen.html" target="_blank">Armor Brewing Co.</a>, Allen (took over Nine Band Brewing Co. space).</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/12/bankhead-opens-newest-brewpub-in.html" target="_blank">Bankhead Brewing Co.</a>, Farmers Branch (took over Cedar Creek Brewhouse & Eatery space).</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/10/black-fox-now-stalking-just-off-square.html" target="_blank">Black Fox Brewing Co.</a>, Denton (took over Howling Mutt Brewpub space).</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/03/boozies-brewery-tx-fare-set-to-open-in.html" target="_blank">Boozie's Brewery & TX Fare</a>, Fairview.</li><li><a href="https://maverick-brewing.com/" target="_blank">Bosque River Taphouse</a>, Stephenville.</li><li><a href="https://www.celestialbeerworks.com/satellite" target="_blank">Celestial Beerworks - The Satellite</a>, Dallas.</li><li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/drjeckyllsbeerlab" target="_blank">Dr. Jeckyll's Brew Lab</a>, Pantego (added brewing operations to existing business model).</li><li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090677453921" target="_blank">Flix Brewhouse</a>, Mansfield.</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/12/jaquval-new-small-batch-brewpub-now.html" target="_blank">Jaquval</a>, Dallas.</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/09/keyworth-brewing-co-now-open-in-north.html" target="_blank">Keyworth Brewing Co.</a>, North Richland Hills.</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/04/soul-fire-setting-up-second-location-in.html" target="_blank">Soul Fire Brewing Co.</a>, Cleburne.</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/10/three-empires-plants-its-flag-in-frisco.html" target="_blank">Three Empires Brewing Co.</a>, Frisco.</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/09/union-bear-shares-first-details-of.html" target="_blank">Union Bear Brewing Co.</a>, Denton (producing beer, taproom in 2024, took over Armadillo Ale Works space).</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/04/white-rock-brewing-co-opens-new-digs-in.html" target="_blank">White Rock Brewing Co.</a>, Dallas.</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/11/wriggly-tin-adds-new-wrinkle-to-dallas.html" target="_blank">Wriggly Tin</a>, Dallas.</li></ul><div><br /></div><div>New Locations (not counted as a new opening):</div><div><ul><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/10/happy-hippie-opens-far-out-fermentation.html" target="_blank">Happy Hippie Brewing Co.</a>, Richardson</li></ul><div><br /></div><div>New Taprooms (not counted as a brewery opening).</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/08/anvil-brewing-is-forging-new.html" target="_blank">Anvil Brewing</a>, Royse City (satellite location for Pittsburg, Texas-based brewery).</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/05/voodoo-brewing-brings-pennsylvania.html" target="_blank">Voodoo Brewing Co.</a>, Grand Prairie (franchise location for Pennsylvania-based brewery).</li></ul></div><div><br /></div></div><div>Permanent Closures:</div><div><ul><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/10/ash-ember-closing-brewery-in-cedar-hill.html" target="_blank">Ash & Ember Brewing</a>, Cedar Hill.</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/10/big-spray-closing-brewpub-in-princeton.html" target="_blank">Big Spray Brewing</a>, Princeton.</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/05/boozies-closing-restaurants.html" target="_blank">Boozie's Brewery & TX Fare</a>, Fairview.<br /></li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/07/bourbon-n-branch-brewing-to-close-in.html" target="_blank">Bourbon-n-Branch Brewing Co.</a>, Hudson Oaks.</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/11/brutal-beerworks-closing-in-north.html" target="_blank">Brutal Beerworks</a>, North Richland Hills.</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/03/chambers-creek-in-maypearl-sold-brewing.html" target="_blank">Chambers Creek Brewing Co.</a>, Maypearl (new ownership - ceased brewing, continuing as a bar only).</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/06/food-experience-corporation-closes.html" target="_blank">Food Experience Corporation</a>, Aubrey.</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/01/hemisphere-closing-brewery-in-rockwall.html" target="_blank">Hemisphere Brewing Co.</a>, Rockwall.</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/03/howling-mutt-closing-brewpub-in-denton.html" target="_blank">Howling Mutt Brewpub</a>, Denton.<br /></li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/11/shannon-brewing-co-now-closed-in-keller.html" target="_blank">Shannon Brewing Co.</a>, Keller.</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/10/walking-beam-closing-brewery-in.html" target="_blank">Walking Beam Brewing Co.</a>, Bridgeport.</li></ul><div><br /></div><div>Consolidations:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/MalaiBrewing" target="_blank">Malai Kitchen</a>, Fort Worth.<br /> - Consolidated operations at Malai Brewing, Southlake.</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/09/pegasus-city-to-close-design-district.html" target="_blank">Pegasus City Brewery Design District</a>, Dallas.<br /> - Consolidated operations at Pegasus City Brewery Downtown, Dallas.</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/04/white-rock-brewing-co-opens-new-digs-in.html" target="_blank">White Rock Alehouse & Brewery</a>, Dallas.<br /> - Consolidated operations at White Rock Brewing Co., Dallas.<br /></li></ul><div><br /></div></div><div>Taproom Closures (not counted as a brewery closure).</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/05/boozies-closing-restaurants.html" target="_blank">Boozie's Brewery & Gourmet Sandwiches</a>, Fort Worth.</li><li><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/06/cowtown-closing-southlake-satellite.html" target="_blank">Cowtown Brewing Co.</a>, Southlake.<br /> - Operations continue at Cowtown Brewing Co. of Fort Worth.<br /><br /></li></ul></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRO-2e3VIsnoT4j7kTOlm_OyjJvyURfUQgaDV-hApbtuhndI_gqEaFP2zX0mSesxzLbSznLc4UTiS1N86Nas6jdvYyOCDeo8r3GTYRU1hoR75XWJWUHmoq919Ba83Lf6yWYOqIjUBQ4nqNmqv1aV3uugn6CZpvf_OL6NynChlk-3Yabm90TBIrMGF0Xcg/s904/opchart_12_2023.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="527" data-original-width="904" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRO-2e3VIsnoT4j7kTOlm_OyjJvyURfUQgaDV-hApbtuhndI_gqEaFP2zX0mSesxzLbSznLc4UTiS1N86Nas6jdvYyOCDeo8r3GTYRU1hoR75XWJWUHmoq919Ba83Lf6yWYOqIjUBQ4nqNmqv1aV3uugn6CZpvf_OL6NynChlk-3Yabm90TBIrMGF0Xcg/w640-h374/opchart_12_2023.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDpOLx4DkjKy0qWZXieERRr69qsUKfoEGHnoLGWMTrVvhQvWVcQPeHHHbB_kaq8m_5l15WsKcDFaEvrS0eDsSjeCaBtaEi_dIIK5SEUZ95A4pPHSP56mYzMGdJfDOEE11aC1xrRrMDNMqV74u1jiOx_AASUwyInXHDmnpbx_MtQ49bMLlUSDWAB5VAiJY/s563/active_ops_12_2023.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="239" data-original-width="563" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDpOLx4DkjKy0qWZXieERRr69qsUKfoEGHnoLGWMTrVvhQvWVcQPeHHHbB_kaq8m_5l15WsKcDFaEvrS0eDsSjeCaBtaEi_dIIK5SEUZ95A4pPHSP56mYzMGdJfDOEE11aC1xrRrMDNMqV74u1jiOx_AASUwyInXHDmnpbx_MtQ49bMLlUSDWAB5VAiJY/w522-h222/active_ops_12_2023.jpg" width="522" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: Individual research.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><b>The Year in Beer</b> </div></div><ul><li><b>A timeline of heady local headlines<br /></b><br />February - <a href="https://www.dmagazine.com/food-drink/2023/02/lake-highlands-is-officially-home-to-the-best-little-brewpub-in-texas/" target="_blank">Vector Brewing of Dallas is named Brewery of the Year</a> in the Under 600-bbl Group at the 2023 Texas Craft Brewers Cup, a professional beer competition put on annually by the Texas Craft Brewers Guild.<br /><br />March - <a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/03/voodoo-brewing-to-open-first-franchise.html" target="_blank">Voodoo Brewing Co. of Pennsylvania announces first franchise taproom in Texas</a>. After the initial spot opened in Grand Prairie at the end of May, construction began on an additional pub in Plano. A third in Fort Worth is presumably also in the works.<br /><br />March - <a href="https://fb.watch/p7foRnxawa/" target="_blank">Tupps Brewery of McKinney pops the top on a brand refresh</a> intended to elevate the brewery's visual look "to match the quality of our beers and our service." An official launch party celebrating the new logo and revamped can designs was held in April.<br /><br />April - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=937765704220605&set=a.876037627060080" target="_blank">Fort Brewery & Pizza of Fort Worth rolls out new 16-ounce cans featuring removable stickers</a>.<br /><br />May - <a href="https://texascraftbrewersguild.org/beer-to-you-denied-hearing-in-house-and-senate-committees/" target="_blank">"Beer to You" bills denied hearing and Senate Committees</a>. Led by the Texas Craft Brewers Guild and its political action committee arm, CraftPAC, this effort sought to legalize home delivery from Texas breweries.<br /><br />May - <a href="https://dallasinnovates.com/founders-buy-dallas-four-corners-brewing-back-from-industry-giant/" target="_blank">Constellation sells Four Corners Brewing Co. back to its founders</a>. After purchasing the Dallas brewery in 2018, the deal with Constellation Brands allowed Four Corners to regain its independence.<br /><br />June - <a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/06/funky-co-founder-achieves-advanced.html" target="_blank">Funky co-founder achieves Advanced Cicerone status</a>, as Collin Zreet of Funky Picnic Brewery & Café completed requirements necessary to become one of only eight to hold the rank in all of Texas.<br /><br />June - <a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/06/horsemen-rein-in-ahas-2023-radegast.html" target="_blank">Horsemen rein in AHA's 2023 Radegast Club of the Year award</a>. The Fort Worth homebrew club was honored at this year's National Homebrew Competition put on by the American Homebrewers Association.<br /><br />November - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552663057231" target="_blank">Johnson County Distillery brands beer side of the business as Wildbreak Brewing Co. of Cleburne</a>. The move is intended to bring more attention to the brewing operation by way of its own identity.<br /><br />November - <a href="https://www.dallasobserver.com/restaurants/strangeways-in-dallas-digs-in-to-stay-open-17832738" target="_blank">Dallas beer bar Strangeways fights to stay open</a>, after fears it would be forced to close in October.<br /><br />November - <a href="https://beerandbrewing.com/the-best-20-beers-in-2023/" target="_blank">False Idol Brewing of North Richland Hills among Editor's Picks in Beer & Brewing Magazine</a>. The brewery's barrel-aged stout, Ralphie Runs Wild, named one of the publication's 20 best beers of 2023.<br /><br />November - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=363194812936434&set=a.141591145096803" target="_blank">Brew Aleworks to focus on production and distribution</a> after deciding to cease operation of its taproom and restaurant in Granbury.<br /><br />December - <a href="https://12thman.com/news/2023/12/7/general-block-t-blonde-ale-to-debut-at-reed-arena-on-sunday" target="_blank">Revolver debuts Texas A&M co-branded beer</a>. As part of a partnership between its parent company and Texas A&M Athletics, the Granbury brewery created Block T Blonde Ale, a beer named for a formation of the Fightin' Texas Aggie Band.<br /><br />December - <a href="https://www.hopculture.com/best-craft-beers-2023/" target="_blank">North Texas collab lands on Hop Culture's 2023 best beer list</a>. The work of False Idol Brewing of North Richland Hills, 903 Brewers of Sherman and Vector Brewing of Dallas, the Hop Culture site recognized Perpetual Contortion, a barrel-aged English barleywine.<br /><br /></li></ul><ul><li><b>Beer meets sportsball</b><br /><br />Local breweries produced a number of beers inspired by local college and pro sports organizations in 2023.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/07/lakewood-saddles-up-pony-pils-new-smu.html" target="_blank">Pony Pils from Lakewood Brewing Co.</a> of Garland: Inspired by the alma matter of founder Wim Bens, a portion of proceeds from sales will go to the LBC Future Brewer STEM Scholarship at Southern Methodist University (SMU).<br /><br /><a href="https://fwtx.com/eat-drink/a-new-collaborative-beer-titled-%E2%80%98hells-half-lager%E2%80%99-will-aid-/" target="_blank">Hell's Half Lager from Fort Brewery and Pizza of Fort Worth</a>: This beer was created in collaboration with local apparel company, Hell's Half Acre Stadium Goods, for the sole purpose of raising funds for the Flying T Club at Texas Christian University (TCU).<br /><br /><a href="https://www.beerinbigd.com/2023/10/rollertown-partners-with-rangersnation.html" target="_blank">The 133 Premium Pilsner from Rollertown Beerworks of Celina</a>: Inspired by the grassroots fan group known as Rangers.Nation on Instagram, who helped cheer on the Texas Rangers' run to a World Series championship, this beer "celebrates the passion and dedication of this pioneering group of local baseball fanatics."<br /><br /></li><li><b>Fool's Game<br /><br /></b>In one of best surprise moments of the year, members of the local industry came together for a fun April Fool's Day prank. Over 15 area breweries adopted the colors and designs of others for the day, posting the resulting logos for all to enjoy.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDfFqY7bvsbrYymLlu4wgNCajLYGWor0ypZZMqdNi4l8hJ0YAn0P2Xl0bPe-GIyIon-IAUpwWIGFUh68f_fBOyrS7IJYo68mhQEUjKltEkRntadSK7fYuWA8IaHns6q1OKqTsC7NpZlbUCSDaz4PFAM9cq83oUmFPqaWQtTNb6xeobToxP1509jrnTagw/s2048/338546485_991061098929341_4747538377354131853_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="2048" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDfFqY7bvsbrYymLlu4wgNCajLYGWor0ypZZMqdNi4l8hJ0YAn0P2Xl0bPe-GIyIon-IAUpwWIGFUh68f_fBOyrS7IJYo68mhQEUjKltEkRntadSK7fYuWA8IaHns6q1OKqTsC7NpZlbUCSDaz4PFAM9cq83oUmFPqaWQtTNb6xeobToxP1509jrnTagw/w529-h278/338546485_991061098929341_4747538377354131853_n.jpg" width="529" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">All logos and graphics the property of their respective owners. Image: Brian Brown/Beer in Big D.<br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table></li><li><b>Ten-year toasts</b><br /><br />Those reaching the 10-year anniversary milestone in 2023 included Community Beer Co. of Dallas, Martin House Brewing Co. of Fort Worth, and <a href="https://903brewers.com/" target="_blank">903 Brewers</a> of Sherman. A sampling of what each was serving on opening day in 2013:<br /><br />903: The Chosen One (coconut cream ale), Roo's Red (hoppy red ale).<br />Community: Pale Ale, Public Ale (ESB), Vienna Lager.<br />Martin House: Day Break 4-Grain Breakfast Beer, The Imperial Texan (double red IPA), River House Saison.<br /><br />Celebrating 10 years in 2024: Malai Kitchen of Dallas (brewing operations now take place in Southlake), Panther Island Brewing of Fort Worth.<br /><br />Celebrating 20 years in 2024: Rahr & Sons Brewing Co. of Fort Worth.<br /><br /></li><li><b>North Texas award winners</b>: <a href="http://www.beerinbigd.com/search/label/award%20winning%20beers">Click here</a> for summaries of award-winning beers from 2023, with competition results from the Great American Beer Festival, World Beer Cup, Texas Craft Brewers Cup, Festival of Wood & Barrel-Aged Beer, North American Brewers Association International Beer & Cider Awards, United States Beer Tasting Championship and U.S. Open Beer Championship.<br /><br /></li></ul><ul><li><b>The 2023 list of Beer in Big D's preferred pours</b> (new-to-market, or newly-discovered beers some blogger particularly enjoyed): Armor Smoked Porter, Beard Science pHunky pHlemish, Celestial Sonus, False Idol Velsigne, Funky Picnic A Haw-Haw-Haw-Haw in Billy Gibbons' Voice, Martin House Obsidian Eclipse, Rollertown Dunkel, Three Empires Amber's First Time, Turning Point 2023 Barrel-Aged Stout, Vector Schützenkönig, Windmills Black Market Liver, Wriggly Tin Oro Moro.</li></ul><div><br /></div><div>Cheers and Happy New Year!<br /><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-90200828081018413722023-12-15T09:15:00.003-06:002023-12-31T16:23:53.719-06:00Bankhead opens newest brewpub in Farmers Branch<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmz_zXjSFStt3SiMTzkoeWqN77hPt1lj7_fKDkDCsVMiGf_PfUpFUJctFYODhS4TvOGTqMvXFqTD83aOvB5fqkACiSlqkfCLH2uswyZki07quUybzJi2MKX5OmMrOaQLbDOXI8pl2bkPRi6i3dtYV7lIhYprMKZgIf6xaY222nDQqrqmc2I7OcCc-7oBo/s2400/bh3_bnbb_w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="2400" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmz_zXjSFStt3SiMTzkoeWqN77hPt1lj7_fKDkDCsVMiGf_PfUpFUJctFYODhS4TvOGTqMvXFqTD83aOvB5fqkACiSlqkfCLH2uswyZki07quUybzJi2MKX5OmMrOaQLbDOXI8pl2bkPRi6i3dtYV7lIhYprMKZgIf6xaY222nDQqrqmc2I7OcCc-7oBo/w640-h334/bh3_bnbb_w.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bankhead's name recalls the Bankhead Highway, an early roadway which ran through<br />Downtown Rowlett - the company's origin point (All images: © Brian Brown/Beer in Big D).</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Adding to its roster of locations in <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bankheadbrewing.fortworth/" target="_blank">Fort Worth</a> and the original in <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bankheadbrewing.rowlett/" target="_blank">Rowlett</a>, <a href="https://www.bankheadbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Bankhead Brewing Co.</a> has opened its newest brewpub in the spot formerly occupied by Cedar Creek Brewhouse & Eatery at 13090 Bee St. in Farmers Branch.</p><p>Bankhead's approach to expansion, thus far, has involved acquiring brewpubs that have recently closed. Ownership took a mostly turn-key approach to its takeover of Deep Ellum Brewing Co.'s Funkytown Fermatorium in Fort Worth, but it seems they may have jiggled the key a bit more when planning out how to fit into Farmers Branch.</p><p>While changes outside focus on signage, renovations on the interior involved a re-work of the two-story, 6000+ square foot space. In addition to swapping out furnishings and adopting a darker color motif, the old bar setup downstairs was removed and replaced with a new service counter aligned with the south wall.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLNpv4bMjO-uVPGIKVKhsjCvcahrEbhd0fvm7BqBaA-_MnRqGtUaroT4XC9zEEz7u8sDH3xmryFrsSyHyc6e2T1AucFCCkLKKgz1oWARS1Ea1VI4CgCyRbLAoGIo7u-QcfKnQxw2xPfE9TRw140hpRvGxMWx6e1fIyWjMEybeqJIms168dIJ8tGJ5sfIA/s1200/bh3_bn2_w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="1200" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLNpv4bMjO-uVPGIKVKhsjCvcahrEbhd0fvm7BqBaA-_MnRqGtUaroT4XC9zEEz7u8sDH3xmryFrsSyHyc6e2T1AucFCCkLKKgz1oWARS1Ea1VI4CgCyRbLAoGIo7u-QcfKnQxw2xPfE9TRw140hpRvGxMWx6e1fIyWjMEybeqJIms168dIJ8tGJ5sfIA/w640-h214/bh3_bn2_w.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A darker color palette adorns the interior of Bankhead's brewpub in Farmers Branch.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>There's even an old model-T Ford, à la the brewpub's logo, that's been split in half and installed as decor around the elevator shaft. And though it's not ready just yet, the lift and an adjoining staircase will provide upstairs access to what's set to evolve into a lounge-like locale. Here, the brewpub will host events like weekly trivia nights, while also setting the stage for live, local music acts to perform.</p><p>Shifting gears to the brewhouse, some may notice the hardware in this room has both literally and figuratively risen to new heights. The production system has been revamped with new equipment, the setup now incorporating an array of stackable fermenters which reaches to the ceiling.</p><p>From within, beers brewed onsite pour from one of 20 handles on the brewpub's tapwall, with the everyday lineup expected to contain long-standing Bankhead standards with automobile-inspired names like Low Beams (light lager), Devil Wagon (German helles) and Wheel's Off IPA. And let's also not forget Hoofer's Hef (German hefeweizen), a two-time award winner at the Great American Beer Festival.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggk-cp_4hq2nmXKpgeRfY5inkpd91UkfrPdScTGMaU2I3goRvTtyxs02l4Hwo6PuHIV_R1n4qhEVv_tiBCar0amUKiVxHkAbeqcLj17NObSdtgaHWBPMv1A6bpfCg5S0-bj3ZdemWpDqXPUWOQBxjkknFUkko_bA1sYQq3appce8pD_SxjlUThlE0Sjx8/s1200/bh3_bn3_w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="1200" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggk-cp_4hq2nmXKpgeRfY5inkpd91UkfrPdScTGMaU2I3goRvTtyxs02l4Hwo6PuHIV_R1n4qhEVv_tiBCar0amUKiVxHkAbeqcLj17NObSdtgaHWBPMv1A6bpfCg5S0-bj3ZdemWpDqXPUWOQBxjkknFUkko_bA1sYQq3appce8pD_SxjlUThlE0Sjx8/w640-h214/bh3_bn3_w.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Among the consumables at Bankhead Farmers Branch: Buddha's Mantra, a Belgian witbier, and the brewpub's Brussel & Chicken Salad.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Remaining aspects of the menu follow suit in offering selections likely familiar to fans of Bankhead, with food options comprising pizzas, burgers, sammies, soups, salads, featured entrées and desserts (plus a kids menu). Then for drinkables beyond the beer, a cocktail and wine range is also available.</p><p>Something else worth mentioning is this: if Farmers Branch has one advantage over its sister sites, it's probably the second-floor patio section. Patrons seated there are able to couple the ambiance with the brewpub's quality craft beer and culinary fare for an elevated brewpub experience...in more ways than one.</p><p>Bankhead Brewpub opens daily in Farmers Branch, with hours beginning at 4 p.m. on Monday and Tuesday, and 11 a.m. from Wednesday to Sunday.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-35344201797075703792023-12-03T11:39:00.001-06:002023-12-03T11:59:40.926-06:00Austin-based beers from Meanwhile making their way to the Metroplex<div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd7esIOxOhc5H_qcCyQaE7pZpRGn_Tb94ZFq-wUNR66cOBARNQ49i8AE8RhCZyNM3oVR2GEn78Gdzi0RQpBwoKbBZo82SaZUUZTJUeY6tzc4GV6O6dyBIT81po32ATa-3U-yJNiuBE24c2Sf0r5xR1WAiyd71DpgM15FVrh9gUbElwt0WYbDdkI2zelIA/s2400/mw_bl_w3.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="2400" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd7esIOxOhc5H_qcCyQaE7pZpRGn_Tb94ZFq-wUNR66cOBARNQ49i8AE8RhCZyNM3oVR2GEn78Gdzi0RQpBwoKbBZo82SaZUUZTJUeY6tzc4GV6O6dyBIT81po32ATa-3U-yJNiuBE24c2Sf0r5xR1WAiyd71DpgM15FVrh9gUbElwt0WYbDdkI2zelIA/w640-h334/mw_bl_w3.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo © Brian Brown/Beer in Big D.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Recently, a new box of beer mail appeared at my door, this time courtesy of <a href="https://www.meanwhilebeer.com/" target="_blank">Meanwhile Brewing Co.</a> of Austin. The premise was an introduction to the brand, with the catalyst being a collaboration beer the company made with <a href="https://www.celestialbeerworks.com/" target="_blank">Celestial Beerworks</a> of Dallas.</p></div><p>If you were not already aware, Meanwhile's products have shown up here in the past, but fresh shipments are now making their way to the Metroplex. Cans began appearing on shelves of select retailers in mid-November, with draft selections following close behind.</p><p>Three of the beers contained in my sample pack have been among those delivered to area locales. Each represents a year-round offering from Meanwhile, with two having been awarded medals at the Great American Beer Festival (GABF).</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Secret Beach - San Diego Style IPA (6.2% ABV): My favorite beer of the bunch, this West Coast-inspired IPA is kind of a throwback in being dank and slightly bitter with notes of tropical fruit and orange marmalade. Secret Beach brought home a silver medal in the American-Style Strong Pale Ale category at the 2022 GABF.</li><li>Tender Robot - Hazy IPA (6.2% ABV): A recipe featuring four types of malt and four hop varieties produces a pleasing hazy IPA with a mix of citrus and tropical fruit flavors and a mild finishing bitterness.</li><li>Meanwhile Pilsner - German-Style Pilsner (4.8% ABV): Light, easy to drink and refreshing while displaying a range of subtle complexities including elements of grain, bread dough and lemon zest set against a floral and grassy background. Meanwhile Pilsner won a gold medal for German-Style Pilsener at the 2021 GABF.</li></ul><div>Now, just to be complete, beer number four was the aforementioned collaboration and an Austin exclusive. For that one, a partnership was formed to create Celestial Flirtation (10.5% ABV), a huge triple hazy IPA which debuted at Meanwhile's recent third anniversary celebration.</div><div><br /></div><div>As for the distribution plan, reps at Meanwhile say new beers will drop locally roughly once a month. Locations receiving stock up to now are listed below, but consumers can also <a href="https://www.meanwhilebeer.com/beer-locator" target="_blank">click here</a> to view the most up-to-date listings by way of the Beer Locator on the brewery's website.</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Addison: <a href="https://www.loroeats.com/locations/dallas/addison/" target="_blank">Loro Asian Smokehouse & Bar</a>.</li><li>Dallas: <a href="https://www.craftbeercellar.com/dallas" target="_blank">Craft Beer Cellar</a>, <a href="https://www.beerknurd.com/locations/cypress-waters-flying-saucer" target="_blank">Flying Saucer Cypress Waters</a>, <a href="http://www.goodfrienddallas.com/" target="_blank">Goodfriend</a>, <a href="https://katyicehouse.com/" target="_blank">Katy Trail Ice House</a>, <a href="https://www.loroeats.com/locations/dallas/east/" target="_blank">Loro Asian Smokehouse & Bar</a>, <a href="http://www.mothinthe.net">Meddlesome Moth</a>, <a href="https://strangewaysdallas.com/" target="_blank">Strangeways</a>.</li></ul><div><br /></div></div><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-80683422718913614752023-12-01T15:29:00.004-06:002023-12-15T10:49:31.728-06:00Beard Science set to release first pHunky beer in bottles<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW8CVC7L3_arYEa-WbH_jRYqc1p579dLQ7lgR15-aX1fAxzyGSbxa7J5eYJ28YbYd0-9qFNOmaifs5mWDS7qHh069Vbvwx9ZYqjmTH3Ts75_1vUMta16tVAU7Cl49A0le0yiVzpiG-EQqvi9GMTvWyckmQw47ZkHRNRXE62pqV1CksbA-J3X23GDkVjBU/s2400/phph_bssh_w.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="2400" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW8CVC7L3_arYEa-WbH_jRYqc1p579dLQ7lgR15-aX1fAxzyGSbxa7J5eYJ28YbYd0-9qFNOmaifs5mWDS7qHh069Vbvwx9ZYqjmTH3Ts75_1vUMta16tVAU7Cl49A0le0yiVzpiG-EQqvi9GMTvWyckmQw47ZkHRNRXE62pqV1CksbA-J3X23GDkVjBU/w640-h334/phph_bssh_w.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beard Science's new beer is brewed to the proper pH for a<br />Flanders red (photo © Brian Brown/Beer in Big D).</td></tr></tbody></table><p>The first fruits of a project begun within a few months of when <a href="https://beardsciencesours.com/" target="_blank">Beard Science Sour House</a> originally opened at <a href="https://truckyardthecolony.com/" target="_blank">Truck Yard The Colony</a> are now ready to be enjoyed, as the brewery is set to release its first bottles filled with a beer that began resting in a foeder onsite during February 2021.</p><p>Introducing pHunky pHlemish (5.8% ABV), a wine-like Belgian-style beer brewed with the characteristics of a traditional Flanders red in mind. In other words, it's not an over-the-top modern take on the style, but rather a sour and fruity beer (red plums, black cherries, red currants) with appropriate subtlety and nuance.</p><p>"To me, it drinks like a pinot noir, with that kind of wine character," says Brew Boss Dennis Wehrmann. "And, it's not JUST a sour beer where it punches you in the face with acidity. It's just right, and I even think people who don't like sour beers would enjoy it."</p><p>Packaged in a 600-count limited run of 750mL flip-top bottles, pHunky pHlemish will debut at Beard Science on or before Friday, December 8, with a price point of $18 per bottle. Plus, a small amount of the beer will be placed on draft, allowing patrons to try before they buy.</p><p>Of course, this is just the beginning with regards to bottles at Beard Science - these extended aging efforts take time, after all. Next on the list, a dark sour beer aged in bourbon barrels from <a href="https://www.ironrootrepublic.com/" target="_blank">Ironroot Republic Distillery</a> of Denison will make its way into bottles over the next few months.</p><p>And speaking of barrels, there's more to come on that topic as well. Six weeks ago, Wehrmann and the Truck Yard team travelled to Kentucky to take part in a special barrel select program.</p><p>"We chose three barrels from <a href="https://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/our-brands/w-l-weller.html" target="_blank">Weller</a>, <a href="https://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/our-brands/stagg.html" target="_blank">Stagg</a> and <a href="https://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/our-brands/eagle-rare.html" target="_blank">Eagle Rare</a>," says Wehrmann. "The bourbon inside will be available in our facilities, but I'm getting all three barrels to age beer in."</p><p>Plans are still being finalized, but the expectation is one or more barrels will house a sour beer at Beard Science, with another to be located at the company's sister site, <a href="https://secondrodeobrewing.com/" target="_blank">Second Rodeo Brewing</a>, in Fort Worth.</p><p>Indeed, these are busy times at both Beard Science and Second Rodeo - where, incidentally, a recent expansion added two new tanks to what is now a "maxed out" production area. Wehrmann himself says they have "lots going on," and while there may actually be more to talk about down the line, we'll save those stories for another day.<br /><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-69066287058919080732023-11-19T10:26:00.006-06:002023-11-19T23:03:16.506-06:00Wriggly Tin adds new wrinkle to the Dallas beer scene<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCXWJ__JhS9-OGDSwQGgXIXqYZdPo7lGehnhZCj22_AVhQL96En38H5ClHl83wjxWi7a_22gU5bgqmuzIY836eyw6BJrivpPWQH6i6SmYBexGFCvdD1xaGSMc4gi0LNw9m0D3OYDc8DFQOhJdQ2JVKUTODimc62ctjLJcJ8Q24Z2ZO43yZNGnGabQ2WdY/s2400/wt_bn_w3.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="2400" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCXWJ__JhS9-OGDSwQGgXIXqYZdPo7lGehnhZCj22_AVhQL96En38H5ClHl83wjxWi7a_22gU5bgqmuzIY836eyw6BJrivpPWQH6i6SmYBexGFCvdD1xaGSMc4gi0LNw9m0D3OYDc8DFQOhJdQ2JVKUTODimc62ctjLJcJ8Q24Z2ZO43yZNGnGabQ2WdY/w640-h334/wt_bn_w3.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All photos © Brian Brown/Beer in Big D.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>On a Saturday in December 2019, a spot local beer lovers had come to know as Small Brewpub closed its doors in Oak Cliff. It was a unique little place (literally), with good food and an eclectic range of brews borne out of what, at the time, was one of the more creative approaches to beer-making in the local scene.</p><p>It was a loss, but there were rumblings another chapter would be written down the road. Time passed, with word eventually getting out that Small co-founder Aaron Garcia and partner Jacob Boger were working on a new habitat on S. Haskell St. in the shadow of Fair Park. Small Brewpub would not return, but Small Beer Works was now a thing as part of a new project called <a href="https://wrigglytinbar.com/" target="_blank">Wriggly Tin</a>.</p><p>Small patrons once wondered if beers like Black Pepper Pils and Underdog IPA would see the light of day again. Four years later, these indeed appear along with other creations (Oro Moro Dark Lager, Hart German Helles) on the menu at Wriggly Tin, which officially opened earlier this month.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsK0zthbCoUAAVfHM2UkUcEMDNCbe7Cp6G5nDs-zoF3ifaY8Xg55oTgv9ts54w8fCvT5BlpGz-T3OJNvp6BRHnYe6N5kZsm-xvBDjToTAm1i_84PXNY3copeZHwBXfOb1mbznVarPeBdyqHQEVde7J-gp_R8ikQCDYiMlEcebNEnlEAAQe6bmTKMA742k/s800/wt_bl1w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="800" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsK0zthbCoUAAVfHM2UkUcEMDNCbe7Cp6G5nDs-zoF3ifaY8Xg55oTgv9ts54w8fCvT5BlpGz-T3OJNvp6BRHnYe6N5kZsm-xvBDjToTAm1i_84PXNY3copeZHwBXfOb1mbznVarPeBdyqHQEVde7J-gp_R8ikQCDYiMlEcebNEnlEAAQe6bmTKMA742k/w502-h251/wt_bl1w.jpg" width="502" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wriggly sets up as an attractive destination for patio pours near Dallas Fair Park.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>So, what exactly is a Wriggly Tin?</p>Well, if you're talking about what inspired the name of the place, it has to do with the corrugated sheets of iron covering the half-circle shaped structure the brewpub calls home. The U.K. military called these wavy or wrinkled sheets of metal wriggly tin.<p>If you're talking about Garcia and Boger's vision for the business, though, Wriggly Tin is a "cocktail, wine, and pizza joint that also sells Small Beer Works beer."</p><p>And, that's just the sort of vibe you get upon visiting. With the brewhouse hidden beyond the dining room and kitchen indoors, house beer production is only one Small part of a larger scheme. Whether it be lager-leaning recipes designed for a more diverse range of beer drinker, the universal appeal of pizza offerings from Chef Desmon Coleman, or all the little touches coming together to shape the entirely handmade decor, the approach celebrates "what the common people of the world love."</p><p>Denizens of Dallas love a patio too, by the way, and Wriggly Tin has one checking all the boxes of an urban beer oasis.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdzFUtfvfAcgg3SeiUjHF9mLVSEJjELOH1IaHPZHfarhi6t5Fc6Rq_7jWLTU7XzuNV8utDuTAMgrouEcOfclyzdM6glwziVX2PkGt0SKEqz7_RBIlXTktlWfO1wKUi-0baWI-jWhGHo-am0ygdzKbKFoxDERO5qgDwHoS21PjzlBkv0B0NXxjAb4IuhpE/s800/wt_bl2w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="800" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdzFUtfvfAcgg3SeiUjHF9mLVSEJjELOH1IaHPZHfarhi6t5Fc6Rq_7jWLTU7XzuNV8utDuTAMgrouEcOfclyzdM6glwziVX2PkGt0SKEqz7_RBIlXTktlWfO1wKUi-0baWI-jWhGHo-am0ygdzKbKFoxDERO5qgDwHoS21PjzlBkv0B0NXxjAb4IuhpE/w510-h255/wt_bl2w.jpg" width="510" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoy beer offerings like Hart, a German-style helles lager, inside the dining room or outside in the open air.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Also important is the welcoming nature about the place, starting with the attentiveness of the staff, which includes knowledgeable beer tenders willing to guide patrons through sample sips as they decide on an order. The presence of ownership actively circulating through the crowd, something seemingly more and more rare, was noticeable as well.</p><p>It all makes for the kind of place you want to settle in and stay awhile...not just for a quick beer and a bite, but more for an evening of dinner and drinks without distraction (no televisions were sighted). Perhaps this explains why Wriggly Tin is only open late afternoons and evenings (Wed-Sun, 4 p.m. - 12 a.m.) leading into the weekend.</p><p>Wriggly Tin may not be a full-on revival of Garcia's former business, but the new venture is driven by the same guiding principles behind what became a craft beer fan favorite. So essentially, it's a new space with an old soul, and that's no small thing. Then again, a "Small" thing is probably exactly what it's meant to be.<br /><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-1544349161492975472023-11-18T13:16:00.007-06:002023-11-19T23:15:22.159-06:00Brutal Beerworks closing in North Richland Hills<p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7xxKoyuNyzFxafbUkKvC5KhbXo-3hmlB_opFeWH0hxkH6jFVHGAXG9F4pZaXdjpCJ5tTn28uWNe1NFuwX6Vt1l6BgIEi0EuQcSJYASk0pboXSjtr3Qf83rcVqYuU19HLhW1_5Fbqo4dvSfQ6VAlVD5agSJ4X6zOz8pvxQomfby4u2GdQ_nhh4kDVsQPM/s1200/bb_cl.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7xxKoyuNyzFxafbUkKvC5KhbXo-3hmlB_opFeWH0hxkH6jFVHGAXG9F4pZaXdjpCJ5tTn28uWNe1NFuwX6Vt1l6BgIEi0EuQcSJYASk0pboXSjtr3Qf83rcVqYuU19HLhW1_5Fbqo4dvSfQ6VAlVD5agSJ4X6zOz8pvxQomfby4u2GdQ_nhh4kDVsQPM/w640-h334/bb_cl.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit: Brutal Beerworks.<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Brutal Beerworks has announced it will close its brewery in North Richland Hills.<p></p><p>Founded by Eric Johnson, Sallie McIntyre and Jason Perez, the company opened in July 2019 as the first brewery in the city. From there, Brutal Beerworks embraced a more modern approach in featuring an ever-changing lineup of hazy IPAs, stouts, and the brewery's popular Gusherz line of fruited sour beers.</p><p>As apropos as it is given the circumstances, the Brutal name was a reference to the difficulties in opening and maintaining a brewery in the face of market challenges and other everyday responsibilities. That message coming through loud and clear in a social media post sharing the news.</p><p>"We’ve fought tooth and nail to keep the brewery going, but due to our lease coming to an end and rent prices shooting through the roof, we are no longer able to keep moving forward. "<br /></p><p>Operations will continue through the final day of business on Saturday, December 2.<br /><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-62874475032572886862023-11-08T10:50:00.003-06:002023-11-08T15:59:04.660-06:00Shannon Brewing Co. closes in Keller<p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrsFhDqS61hFeTQ_9dbcwX_2AJHij_kjfBemml0ahCo0L5cEvcXupoGhQdGpeC77GkNlC2qsZ4dMuYLSCOWzJUWJKNdZ4UYo0f_y8zIJ_BvRR2hzT_1ZFuMyF3jIADN524W9Aq45jKmNf-fgynlZFSn-hKrUVTmBBZ_0So7GElqaqewuYGJ4qVjL-Qq5g/s2400/sh_cl.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="2400" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrsFhDqS61hFeTQ_9dbcwX_2AJHij_kjfBemml0ahCo0L5cEvcXupoGhQdGpeC77GkNlC2qsZ4dMuYLSCOWzJUWJKNdZ4UYo0f_y8zIJ_BvRR2hzT_1ZFuMyF3jIADN524W9Aq45jKmNf-fgynlZFSn-hKrUVTmBBZ_0So7GElqaqewuYGJ4qVjL-Qq5g/w640-h334/sh_cl.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo © Brian Brown/Beer in Big D.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Shannon Brewing Co. of Keller is now closed.</p><p>Founded by Shannon Carter, the self-named business debuted in September 2014. The brewery was unique in using a fire-brewing process to produce its beers, which were made with pure Texas spring water from a neighboring bottler.</p><p>In terms of marketing, Carter's own personal heritage influenced the firm's slogan, "Texas Brewed with Irish Roots," as well as the choice of its flagship offering, Shannon Irish Red. Other popular beers in Shannon's portfolio included the company's Chocolate Stout and Irish Coffee Cream Ale.</p><p>A private equity group, NTX Cask Mates, acquired Shannon Brewing Co. in early 2023. Carter remained active in day-to-day activities until July, at which point he moved on to pursue other endeavors. Operations continued on until just recently, but ultimately the decision was made to discontinue the brand.</p><p>Despite the news, Shannon Brewing Co. enjoyed a longer run than most in the North Texas market, its closure coming after a full nine years in business.<br /><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-33467141952508884442023-11-07T11:01:00.005-06:002023-11-07T13:55:37.303-06:00False Idol medals at 2023 Festival of Wood & Barrel-Aged Beer<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9EmmtLxuG3tCQ4w9wARr-2SNSN3WcVu2dqgDwZMQuYevWzYE-8-8dnqKGjB0hZmqZIv9DDb7bszwFwzLgaw2xFdsrTD5t-3wJWjomP54FT-k5_XB0xZtYqiLCnlnUkAxqH1ejwreyACE3WgIdXnOLdLbPtTsHeBiGBXAaUvma8_cXPeRm5J-dbM6If4g/s2400/2fT_FI.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="2400" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9EmmtLxuG3tCQ4w9wARr-2SNSN3WcVu2dqgDwZMQuYevWzYE-8-8dnqKGjB0hZmqZIv9DDb7bszwFwzLgaw2xFdsrTD5t-3wJWjomP54FT-k5_XB0xZtYqiLCnlnUkAxqH1ejwreyACE3WgIdXnOLdLbPtTsHeBiGBXAaUvma8_cXPeRm5J-dbM6If4g/w640-h334/2fT_FI.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit: False Idol Brewing.<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Marking its territory as the site of arguably one of the area's better barrel programs, False Idol Brewing of North Richland Hills has been honored with an award at the <a href="https://www.fobab.com/" target="_blank">2023 Festival of Wood & Barrel-Aged Beer</a> (FOBAB).<p>Started in 2003, FOBAB is put on by the <a href="https://www.illinoisbeer.org/" target="_blank">Illinois Craft Brewers Guild</a>. The event is the largest and most distinguished festival of its kind in North America. At this year's competition, over 300 entries were submitted, with brewers vying for awards across 12 distinct categories.</p><p>False Idol received a bronze medal for Two Faced Terror (14% ABV), an English-style barleywine aged for 17 months in bourbon barrels from <a href="https://heavenhilldistillery.com/" target="_blank">Heaven Hill Distillery</a>, and then for another 7 months in barrels from <a href="https://1792bourbon.com/" target="_blank">1792</a>. The beer was a limited batch released by the brewery in late October - cans of which sold out quickly.</p><p>For more on the 2023 FOBAB, <a href="https://www.fobab.com/hall-of-fame" target="_blank">click here</a> to view a complete list of winners.</p><p>False Idol Brewing, North Richland Hills</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Bronze for Two Faced Terror in the Barleywine/Wheatwine category.<br /></li></ul><div><br /></div><div>Cheers and congrats to False Idol Brewing!<br /><br /></div><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-38916036376594517902023-11-02T10:06:00.008-05:002023-11-02T10:13:39.757-05:00Temptations on tap during Stout Month at Lakewood<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkTNRWhq-rEeHBKvHrAmMJIqQRHtGp7mqJMqS8j9-4SsOM-MuAEDE3ngjTFbf5DB9mndkz9FRm8dlYsjUJzfqbSj9BiEDXpB3gURyuxhXHWtpRdYqk9EGZhmvburNNjEe5-JYUMt4i4r-tVKbHG9b8dJ6ztyXudxYCJ2w1Uv0zDREYDd6qNIonO2Vr-ZM/s2400/stout_month.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1268" data-original-width="2400" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkTNRWhq-rEeHBKvHrAmMJIqQRHtGp7mqJMqS8j9-4SsOM-MuAEDE3ngjTFbf5DB9mndkz9FRm8dlYsjUJzfqbSj9BiEDXpB3gURyuxhXHWtpRdYqk9EGZhmvburNNjEe5-JYUMt4i4r-tVKbHG9b8dJ6ztyXudxYCJ2w1Uv0zDREYDd6qNIonO2Vr-ZM/w640-h338/stout_month.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Images courtesy of Lakewood Brewing Co.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Today is International Stout Day and it marks the beginning of Stout Month at <a href="https://lakewoodbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Lakewood Brewing Co.</a> of Garland.</p><p>The festivities will feature tappings of new exclusive brews all month long, as well as the availability of several Temptress variants including Sin Mint, French Quarter, Gingerbread, Double Stuffed, S'mores and Pumpkin Spice Latte Temptress.</p><p>Then, once December arrives, Stout Month will conclude with the return of the ever-popular Bourbon Barrel Temptress (BBT). As in year's past, the brewery will host two days of events celebrating the release, with BBT VIP Day happening on Friday, December 1, followed by BBT Day on Saturday, December 2. The weekend also will feature the introduction of Temptress Light. </p><p>More details will be shared on Lakewood's social media channels in the coming weeks, but for now a schedule of November releases is provided below.</p><div>Thursday, November 2</div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Balcones Bourbon Barrel-Aged French Coast Temptress with Boysenberries.</li><li>Dry Stout.</li><li>Live Vol. 3 - Norwegian Imperial Stout with Juniper Berries and Honey.</li></ul><div>Thursday, November 9</div><ul><li>Balcones Barrel Temptress aged in a Tequila-Finished Rye Whiskey Barrel.</li></ul><div>Thursday, November 16</div><ul><li>Balcones Barrel Temptress aged in Single-Malt Whiskey Barrel #14140.</li></ul><div>Friday, November 24</div><ul><li>Balcones Barrel Temptress aged in Bourbon Barrel #18313.</li></ul><div>Friday, December 1 - Saturday, December 2</div><ul><li>2023 Bourbon Barrel Temptress.</li><li>Temptress Light.</li><li>Various vintages of Bourbon Barrel Temptress.</li></ul><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-47922175485853995442023-10-22T20:44:00.006-05:002023-11-15T13:38:31.182-06:00Ash & Ember closing brewery in Cedar Hill<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkrAZpCGL9VcDFsb0OXyoQi_azfdUZzkAQ9yuPn2z0NPotb_THc_ZM0Nn7T7zXXm03UpMjL2ZJDwPIFTkgpTWwD3No_3WsfBQtuivEiI-WMcszbj6M4K3J6Pg8WjbcKn82XlIYmK192zao3KV3xEZWUVsJfXHZ8gpPE4sX9LXPZsdjCnOeWjPjwwqaIKk/s1200/ae_cl.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkrAZpCGL9VcDFsb0OXyoQi_azfdUZzkAQ9yuPn2z0NPotb_THc_ZM0Nn7T7zXXm03UpMjL2ZJDwPIFTkgpTWwD3No_3WsfBQtuivEiI-WMcszbj6M4K3J6Pg8WjbcKn82XlIYmK192zao3KV3xEZWUVsJfXHZ8gpPE4sX9LXPZsdjCnOeWjPjwwqaIKk/w640-h334/ae_cl.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit: Ash & Ember Brewing.<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Ash & Ember Brewing of Cedar Hill has announced it will permanently close on November 18.<p>Brian Krajcirovic and Timothy Martin launched Ash & Ember in June 2020, making it the first known brewing operation to exist in the city. The partners, who had been homebrewing together since 2013, opened Ash & Ember hoping to establish a small, family-friendly pub with a <i><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cheers" target="_blank">Cheers</a></i>-like atmosphere. A sign reading "Cheers Cedar Hill" was even hung in the taproom.</p><p>Doors opened at Ash & Ember at the height of the pandemic, and the aftereffects of that event were cited as a contributing factor in the closure, according to a social media post.</p><div data-en-clipboard="true" data-pm-slice="1 1 []">"We started with a vision of bringing our passion for traditional and delicious craft beer to our community, and we achieved that goal. However, the pandemic wreaked havoc on small businesses and breweries everywhere, and we were no exception. Despite our best efforts to pivot and adapt, we faced ongoing challenges that hindered our operations and growth. Now, due to significant cost increases, we have no choice but to close."<br /><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5112925623801072106.post-44694279663118676042023-10-22T08:58:00.003-05:002023-11-08T11:32:32.808-06:00Happy Hippie opens far out fermentation firm in Richardson<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEUl_trnjYdTVYiLwjI8xEGxz6qNP6zMw49rKgHrlaxERWFyA5r1ZG9PRy0AScj-QzYwhylMW7oK1fRoXzTeVq-tQnrMbcTzOHLoN3cFtmXp2K04OcQOD9GpODEaAijykqzBKOLEFMzevkP0qte5bIuJfxVBh6Mzni2iuQmzAjsVEpjnr2TslRM6xPDWY/s2400/hh_bnr3.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="2400" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEUl_trnjYdTVYiLwjI8xEGxz6qNP6zMw49rKgHrlaxERWFyA5r1ZG9PRy0AScj-QzYwhylMW7oK1fRoXzTeVq-tQnrMbcTzOHLoN3cFtmXp2K04OcQOD9GpODEaAijykqzBKOLEFMzevkP0qte5bIuJfxVBh6Mzni2iuQmzAjsVEpjnr2TslRM6xPDWY/w640-h334/hh_bnr3.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All photos © Brian Brown/Beer in Big D.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Completing the journey to opening a brick-and-mortar location, <a href="https://happyhippiebeer.com/" target="_blank">Happy Hippie Brewing Co.</a> has pulled back the curtain on its new permanent home at 500 Lockwood Dr. in Richardson.</p><p></p><p>For anyone unfamiliar, Happy Hippie got its start after entering into an alternating proprietorship agreement with Hop & Sting Brewing Co. of Grapevine in 2019. From there, first beers hit the market in early 2020, with more than 10 different recipes eventually making their way into the firm's portfolio over the course of the last three years.</p><p>Now, those behind Happy Hippie - a group comprising Michael and Kellie Frederick, Scott and Happy Schwieterman, and Dave and Jess Steckel - can entertain family, friends and fans of the brand in the comfort of their own groovy little hippie pad in the <a href="https://www.richardsoncoredistrict.com/lockwood" target="_blank">Lockwood neighborhood</a> of the city's <a href="https://www.richardsoncoredistrict.com/" target="_blank">Core District</a>.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh0s3xjUe7K0t4cWwEK1M-AYYXWV5TdCKHgBcyAf-MjxptVrPegnw1ukzTvp7uUOf5HeoLjqp-ZTqpnz0r6GVXsv0TdR2NG-eO_ZPE7rMQeRxeGqliuJUVviWXCXchyphenhyphen635PCBJvYwZGpXDPwwL41m79vRBCndLz5ePrQvhDJkCUT0EMvJdHPPVMu-gDdo/s800/hh_bl1w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="800" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh0s3xjUe7K0t4cWwEK1M-AYYXWV5TdCKHgBcyAf-MjxptVrPegnw1ukzTvp7uUOf5HeoLjqp-ZTqpnz0r6GVXsv0TdR2NG-eO_ZPE7rMQeRxeGqliuJUVviWXCXchyphenhyphen635PCBJvYwZGpXDPwwL41m79vRBCndLz5ePrQvhDJkCUT0EMvJdHPPVMu-gDdo/w463-h232/hh_bl1w.jpg" width="463" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy Hippie operates inside an 11,000 square foot structure. Roughly half is dedicated to the<br />taproom, which features a spacious seating area flanked by the service bar and an indoor stage setup.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>So, what's the new place like? Well, in terms of vibe, clearly a chill and laid back atmosphere is the order of the day. Honestly, it couldn't have been more appropriate that a <a href="https://www.dead.net/" target="_blank">Grateful Dead</a> ditty came over the sound system literally the second I sat down. Bandleader Jerry Garcia is the patron saint of Happy Hippie, and what might be the brewery's most popular beer, Captain Tripels (Belgian tripel), is a nod to Captain Trips himself.</p><p>Given that, along with the playing of other tunes by early 70s artists, and the prominent stage setup anchoring one end of the taproom, it should be clear music is central to the concept. If not, maybe also consider past beer names featuring the song titles "Friend of the Devil" (the Dead) and "Smoke on the Water" (Deep Purple).</p><p>Those weren't on tap at opening, but a list of beers that were included Captain Tripels, Honey Magnolia Witbier, Marmalade Sky Blonde Ale, Rich Ale and Wa-Hotter Melon IPA. And while Captain Tripels might be the strongest beer of the bunch in terms of ABV, the punchiest flavor profile emerged from the watermelon and habanero-infused Wa-Hotter Melon IPA. In fact, the latter had a bitter edge on the order of an old-school West Coast IPA.</p><p>Beer workings, by the way, are brought to you by director of brewing operations, Nick Thomason. A homebrewing veteran with more than 15 years of experience under his belt, Thomason is formulating the fermentations at Happy Hippie using hardware supplied by <a href="https://abeequipment.com/" target="_blank">ABE Equipment</a> of Nebraska.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Q5iQ2k27wBfr42UWZuJaCmMKmnaAcUryw_xaO5lzF-vvmIXD2LimjID1DkWnOm5rZNUUGU9ICeJoZM3E8umV-nqgVkD1M5997Hwvrd8nT2pwvjsMUY9oRqEib2yA8EtoR8-fNXLi1Hw9em_gP7sZ5NIN3iUX6DpwfknBuh1GXIzLSnAPtqJ7u81U9XY/s800/hh_bl2w.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="800" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Q5iQ2k27wBfr42UWZuJaCmMKmnaAcUryw_xaO5lzF-vvmIXD2LimjID1DkWnOm5rZNUUGU9ICeJoZM3E8umV-nqgVkD1M5997Hwvrd8nT2pwvjsMUY9oRqEib2yA8EtoR8-fNXLi1Hw9em_gP7sZ5NIN3iUX6DpwfknBuh1GXIzLSnAPtqJ7u81U9XY/w461-h231/hh_bl2w.jpg" width="461" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Once production is in full swing, beers will pour from as many as 12 tap handles at Happy Hippie.<br />Flights and full pours are available, with to-go selections presumably set to occupy a fridge adjacent to the bar.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>As for other site amenities, widescreen televisions encircle the interior allowing for the viewing of sports and other events at Happy Hippie, with board games provided as an additional diversion. There's also a patio area for those who prefer open-air imbibing.</p><p>With regard to grub, food trucks will be the primary purveyor. Bites on grand opening weekend were served by <a href="https://www.guitarsandgrowlers.com/" target="_blank">Guitars & Growlers</a>, a fitting partner since the pub's Richardson spot has acted as Happy Hippie's adopted taproom since its inception. Their menu offers a variety of appetizers (fries, onion rings, sweet potato nuggets), entrees (bratwurst, smash burgers, street tacos, wings), kids meals (chicken nuggets, hot dogs), and a Cream Cheese Filled Churro for dessert.</p><p>Indeed, taken together, what Happy Hippie has created is a songful space designed to inspire patrons to commune with other like-minded craft beer drinkers. To that end, you're invited to "Find Your Tribe" at the brewery during operating hours from Wednesday through Sunday.<br /><br /></p><p></p><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0