Did you know there are over 9,000 breweries in the U.S? Moreover, did you know that not all breweries are created equal?
You’re probably well aware that breweries are where beer is made and manufactured. However, there are several different types of breweries, each serving a different purpose. And with different types of breweries, there are different types of beer.
Are you a fan of beer and alcoholic beverages and interested in learning more about the beer-making process? Read on to learn about the different breweries you can visit today.
- Microbreweries
A brewery must produce no more than 15,000 barrels of beer per year to be considered a microbrewery. Moreover, they must make 25% of their sales on-site.
Microbreweries make specialty beers or boutique beers. Such beers are often seasonal or are made to showcase a particular ingredient.
- Nano-Breweries
Nano-breweries differ from microbreweries simply based on size and production. They typically produce no more than 2000 barrels per year.
- Brewpubs
Brewpubs function as both restaurants and breweries. They must make at least 25% of their sales on-site and provide tasty food to their customers.
These breweries dispense their beer directly from their storage tanks. Those tanks are part of the aesthetic appeal, as they create an authentic atmosphere that consumers appreciate. It’s also a great way to showcase the beer-making process, making consumers feels like insiders.
- Taproom Breweries
Taproom breweries are similar to the brewpub model because they have to make the same amount of on-site sales. The main difference is that taprooms do not have to sell food. Taprooms can sell beer to-go and distribute it to off-site partners where it is legally permitted.
- Regional Breweries
Regional breweries serve beers in a single geographical location. They produce 15,000 to six million barrels per year.
- Craft Breweries
Any of the above breweries can be craft breweries. But they can also be industrial breweries that don’t offer the unique flavor of craft beer.
Craft breweries are small and independent, and they are all about innovation. They seek to create beers with unique flavors. They use a large amount of malt for flavor and incorporate old-time brewing technology while still adding their unique flavor.
Craft beer is stored and drank at a higher temperature, as colder beers inhibit the aromatic compounds. Darker beers tend to require the least refrigeration. Craft breweries usually avoid adding preservatives that alter the taste of their tasty beer.
Craft beers are often considered the most delicious beer, as they have much more unique and complex flavors than bland industrial beers. For some of the best craft beer you can get, visit the taproom of East Brother Beer Co. taproom in Richmond, CA.
Types of Breweries
This guide to the different types of breweries you can visit should prove insightful as you seek out different beers to enjoy. Enjoy the learning process and delicious beer as you visit these breweries.
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