In case you’ve been hiding under a rock (or were somehow blinded by the glittering empires of Coors or Budweiser), let us catch you up to speed: the craft beer movement is on the rise. After decades of a beer industry dominated by the big guys, traditional microbreweries across the country have slowly been fighting back with local ingredients, age-old brewing techniques, creative combinations, and some seriously incredible beer.
Image Courtesy of FSR Magazine
It’s no surprise to us that Texas has risen to the top as one of the fastest growing states on the craft brewing scene. In fact, the very heart behind the craft beer movement seems to line up perfectly with the Texas spirit: these small, independent brewers have been fighting tirelessly for a spot on your favorite bar’s tap...and making serious progress. According to the Brewers Association, craft brewers accounted for $55.7 billion of the U.S. economy in 2014, with Texas contributing the third highest amount at $3.8 billion.
Although only a “small” Hill Country town, Seguin has quickly emerged as an area favorite on the Hill Country brewing scene! Two specialized breweries have been growing into Hill Country fame, thanks to recipes that utilize Seguin’s famous pecans. Take a look!
Seguin Brewing Co
Obviously in the business of repping their hometown, Seguin Brewing Co has quickly made a name for itself among local beer lovers.This charming brewpub, founded by Seguin native Brian Wallace and his partner Shaun Washington, began as a small home-brewing experiment and has grown into a 7-barrel operation on the outskirts of Seguin. Both founders are Texas Lutheran University graduates who possess a wealth of knowledge about the food/beverage business and a passion for craft beer excellence.
Inspired by the town of Seguin and the surrounding Hill Country, Seguin’s signature “Honey Pecan #5” is a well balanced, full-bodied cream ale. Its malt-forward flavor combines with a subtle honey aroma and a smooth praline-like finish.
Image Courtesy of Seguin Brewing Co
You can also try the Black Rye Reserve (a deep-bodied IPA ), 9-Pin Kolsch (a German-inspired beer with Pilsner and Munich malts), Lake Breeze Summer Blonde (a summer seasonal with a floral hop finish), Oktoberfest (a well-balanced fall seasonal), Freedom Fiesta Ale (a Vienna-style beer with a touch of caramel), and Rock-n-Rohl (bock-style). Stop by the tap room on Saturdays to taste!
BS Brewing
Offering a fresh perspective on the world of craft beer, BS Brewing is passionate about innovative methods, community togetherness, and excellent beer. Every year, BS churns out local classics like Caedmon’s Ale, Seguin Ale, and College Chronic. Other taps include limited runs of Pale Reserve (bourbon barrel aged), 1888 Whitechaple, Pecan Ale with Honey (made with local pecans and honey), Seguin Ale with Vanilla, Pumpkin Latte Milk Stout, Chocolate Cherry Stout, Vanilla Porter, and more...ready for a pint yet?
Image Courtesy of Times Record News
Brian Schmoekel, the brewery’s founder (hence the initials “BS”), is passionate about providing more than just beer: BS Brewery wants to foster community. Located on a large piece of farmland just outside of Seguin, the whole setup is perfect for community gatherings and family events. Plenty of parking, wide-open spaces, a welcoming patio, and a dog-and-kid-friendly attitude allow BS to host a everything from live music on Saturdays to the “Winterfest Party”.
“I put my heart and soul into it like most craft brewers,” Schmoekel explained to the Seguin Gazette. “When you buy local, the money stays local. When you buy a four-pack of our beer, that really does help send my daughter to dance class and it’s something we really appreciate.” Stop by on Fridays and Saturdays!
Image Courtesy of LA Weekly
More than just a trend, craft beer is emerging as a specialty market that seems to appeal especially to Texans. These local establishments stimulate the local economy, foster community togetherness, and serve downright delicious specialty brews. Long live the Texan craft beer scene...especially in Seguin.
Still curious about craft beer? Here are a few boozy facts to hold you over until the taproom opens…
- Most Americans live within 10 miles of a craft brewery
- IPA is the most popular style of craft beer in the USA
- The worst glass for beer tasting is the shaker pint
- The Brewer’s Association recognizes 152 different styles of beer
- Craft ales contain silicon, which strengthens bones
- George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison all brewed beer at home
- Beer color is directly related to malt content
Facts Courtesy of Food Beast; view original infographic here