TLDR
Craft beer isn't just for hipsters anymore. In the past decade, local breweries have experienced a renaissance, and the craft beer industry has grown exponentially. But what does this mean for beer today?
From small-batch brews to experimental ingredients, local breweries are shaping the 21st century beer scene with their creative concoctions and unique approaches to brewing. We're seeing a shift away from mass-produced, one-note beers, and towards artisanal flavors crafted by individual brewers.
In this article, let's explore how local breweries are championing craft beer and reshaping the future of beer in truly innovative ways. From sustainability initiatives to unique techniques, these small-scale brewers are taking the world of beer by storm—and it's time you get in on it too!
The Rise of the Local Brewery
It's no secret that microbreweries and craft beer are on the rise. In 2021, craft beer sales grew by 7.9%, while the number of craft breweries in the U.S. increased from 8391 in 2019 to 9118 in 2021.
This boom in local breweries has created a unique opportunity for brewers to create innovative brews and bring them to the public quickly, without having to adhere to strict regulations or standards set by larger breweries. Smaller brewing operations can take risks and focus on creative flavors—allowing them to produce exciting, one-of-a-kind brews that appeal to beer drinkers looking for something new.
What's more, this growing demand for craft beers has spurred an increase in local infrastructure supporting small brewing operations—including grains suppliers, equipment retailers and more. This surge in localized industry growth means that even smaller towns can now support locally owned taprooms and microbreweries—bringing jobs, unique flavors and homegrown pride back into communities all over the country.
From Homebrewing to Moving in on the Scene
To become a professional brewmaster, you have to go through a lot. That includes many, many hours of study devoted to the complex all-grain brewing process that is very similar to the extract brewing process that homebrewers use. Homebrewing also allows for hands-on understanding of beer ingredients and different beer styles.
Thanks to these local breweries, beer lovers now have access to quality beer brewed by local artisans, allowing them to learn more about the craft of brewing from passionate brewers and support their local businesses at the same time. With more and more breweries popping up around the country, it’s exciting and inspiring to see how these enthusiastic brewers are reshaping the 21st century beer scene and pushing traditional brewing techniques further.
Benefits of Locally Brewed Beer
It's hard to ignore the many benefits of locally brewed beer. It not only supports local farmers and creates more employment, but it also helps to keep money within the community and supports jobs. Think about it: when you buy a beer that's been brewed in your area, you're directly supporting a small business—it's great!
But that's not all: moderate consumption of local beer has been associated with decreased risk of weight gain among women. This has been proven by various studies over the years—it appears that drinking beer from local breweries can help reduce the risk of gaining weight.
So why is it that locally brewed beer is so beneficial? Here are just a few reasons:
- Local brewers use fresh ingredients sourced from their immediate areas
- They don't need to worry about extensive shipping costs
- Their beers are typically made with more natural ingredients than those that come from mass-produced breweries
A Look at One Local Brewery: Tripping Animals Brewing
If you want to get an up-close and personal look at how local breweries are shaping the 21st century beer scene, let's take Tripping Animals Brewing Co. as an example. A family-owned craft brewery located in Doral, FL, Tripping Animals Brewing Co. has beers with ABV ratings of 6-10%. They range from light and crisp lagers to bold and intense imperial stouts—even if you don't live in Doral, you can have a taste of their beers for yourself. That's because Tripping Animals Brewing Co. offers delivery to your door in under an hour. You could be sipping on a dark porter in no time!
What’s Brewing in Gowanus?
It’s a question that more and more beer enthusiasts are asking. Thanks to the proliferation of craft breweries in the area, Gowanus is shaping up to be the epicenter of Brooklyn’s beer scene.
From Wild East Brewing Company to Strong Rope Brewery and Finback Brewery to Threes Brewing, locals are turning to craft beers for their after-work drinks and weekend adventures. This growing interest in craft beers has led to an influx of beer lovers flocking to the area for flights and tastings of some of the best local brews.
Tap Rooms to Toronado – What’s Next?
People are getting more and more into local breweries, and that's exciting news for the craft beer industry. From tap rooms to the classic Toronado in the Lower Haight in San Francisco, there's something for every tastebud.
Tap Rooms
Tap rooms are seeing an increase in popularity across the US. People have begun flocking to breweries like never before, to enjoy a pint of their favorite beer while socializing with other beer enthusiasts. It's not just a place to grab a drink, but also an experience—with brewery tours and delicious food trucks, what more could you want?
Hazy Brews
Hazy brews remain popular in the craft beer industry. With bold flavors, great aromas and unique ingredients, these beers go down easy—and they've become hugely popular amongst craft beer connoisseurs.
Craft Malt
Craft malt is also gaining attention in the craft beer industry. Beer makers are experimenting with malts from all around the world, creating interesting combinations of flavors that turn old classics into something new and exciting.
Final Thoughts
Local breweries are the new tap rooms of the 21st century. The future of beer is yours to explore. Visit a local brewery near you and join the revolution. From craft beer producers in Gowanus Brooklyn to San Francisco's infamous Toronado bar, there are plenty of local breweries bringing their mix of creativity and knowledge to the beer scene.
Even if you can't visit a local brewery in person, there are still plenty of ways to get your hands on their beer. From purchasing online to joining a beer of the month club, you won't have to miss out on the unique flavors local breweries are bringing forward.
So, next time you're looking for a quality beer, consider supporting your local brewery. Support local businesses and experience the beer revolution that Tripping Animals Brewing and others are leading. Cheers!