Jeremy Cowan
Shmaltz Brewing Co., Clifton Park, NY
As one of the founders of the New York City Brewers Guild and now an owner of a craft brewery in upstate New York, I can truly agree that it is a spectacular time for both enjoying unusual and artistically created beers—as well as to produce them. It has taken our evolving industry of small brewers—still modest in volume but potent in energy and enthusiasm—to grow into a true force in the larger beer and food universe. It’s a profound realization to know we are participating in a phenomenon of creative success.
However, much like when your favorite indie rock band finally gains wider appeal, there’s always a possibility of losing the special qualities that attracted the cult-like following in the first place. For now though, I’d say the best brewers are instead continuing to balance innovation with manufacturing progress and keeping their roots well in tact.
Fortunately the craft beer consumers are keeping pace with the passion of the brewers. And we as small brewers are excited to share our babies with more and more enthusiasts who can certainly run the gamut from casual and appreciative to demanding and critical. All types of beer drinkers not only in Brooklyn but across the city and beyond, can still be serious about making their lives better and taste buds happier through engaging with these amazing beers no matter the source or the style. It’s an endeavor of the spirit which comes through, but even we can admit—it’s just beer. But it’s oh so good!
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