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Thoughts On My First Time Attending CBC...Finally

This is a long overdue piece, but time and life always bring surprises, delays, and all kinds of unexpected curveballs. This being said, I am finally getting time to get caught up and share some of the great happenings over the last few months and the first half of the year. This piece is just that, and a big thanks to the Brewers Association for the recent Craft Brewers Conference that took place in Indianapolis from April 28-May 1st this year. Attending the event as a media presence was a great opportunity to get behind the scenes with the many companies that are bringing success to the craft brewing industry. From the breweries to the suppliers and marketers, and all that make it happen…it was a worthwhile experience. I had the honor to meet and talk with some legendary folks from the beer world, and here, just like many of the events that I have been a part of, the beer industry is one of the most welcoming and community-building ones that I have ever seen. It is something to see. ...

Proper Title...Maybe it is Crafty

Another thought from my last visit to Chicago was what do we do with breweries like Goose Island and their place? Many have looked to exclude them as craft beers since they had been purchased by AB InBev, but they still produce a fine quality craft beer. I have heard companies like this beginning to be described as 'crafty." What are your thoughts?
I can see the "crafty" title, but do they really mass produce all of their beers? Just because they are owned by a larger company, should they automatically be kicked from the ranks of craft beer? I can personally say that there is nothing macro about the "Sofie" or the "Matilda" which I had the opportunity to enjoy as well as the "Green Line." And of course, their "Bourbon County Stout" is still a top of the line beer. 

Maybe we should just accept this new category of beers as we see more of the craft breweries being purchased. Chances are that it won't stop anytime soon. So as long as they don't screw with the formula, then maybe, we will just be okay.




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