A microbrewery is usually defined as a beer brewed commercially by craft brewing methods. Often the brewery makes up part of a brewpub, a brewery attached to a bar or restaurant. In this sense, microbreweries are the underdogs of the beer ...See moreA microbrewery is usually defined as a beer brewed commercially by craft brewing methods. Often the brewery makes up part of a brewpub, a brewery attached to a bar or restaurant. In this sense, microbreweries are the underdogs of the beer industry because the big brothers such as Anheuser Busch and Coors simply create what sells. Their focus is not to incorporate fruit or hops into their finished product. However, there is much to be said by how beer drinkers and their loyalty to local microbreweries in lieu of the "big guys." In simplest terms, people simply crave the flavor. A Coors Light or Bud will taste exactly the same here, as it will in New York City or in Los Angeles. The result from a brew that is brewed at a local microbrewery is made with more body, more taste, more individuality, more flavors and one that is an excellent accompaniment to fine food. The bottom line is, microbreweries, in particular Black Acre Brewery of Irvington and Upland Brewery of Bloomington evoke innovativeness, which, in return, causes them to profit and cause a slight decrease in sales from their big brothers. But is it all really about the money? Do they wish to grow and compete at an equal playing field with the Big 3? Do they just really love what they do? This story is about the upbringing of Indiana microbreweries but more specifically how the need to drink local has taken a sudden interest over the years. Written by
Ryan Porter
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