As we celebrate Independence Day, it prompts a reflection on 10 Barrel Brewing’s tumultuous journey in San Diego’s competitive beer market.
In May 2017, this Anheuser-Busch-owned brewery marked the opening of its expansive brewpub in East Village by hosting a lively block party.
However, the event was notably interrupted by local brewers and enthusiastic beer fans who made their stance clear with a banner flying overhead, declaring: ’10 Barrel is Not Craft Beer.’
The closure of 10 Barrel’s San Diego location at the end of 2020 was officially linked to COVID-19 restrictions but was likely exacerbated by a contentious relationship with the local craft beer community.
For many, ‘craft beer’ embodies products from small, local, independent breweries that prioritize traditional brewing methods and ingredients.
This definition has historically made corporate ownership a liability for former craft breweries, as evidenced by the backlash against Ballast Point and Saint Archer after their acquisitions by larger corporations.
Both breweries faced boycotts in light of their purchases, with Ballast Point acquired by Constellation Brands and Saint Archer by Molson Coors in 2015.
Ballast Point struggled and eventually sold to Kings & Convicts in 2019, while Saint Archer was forced to cease operations in 2022.
The situation took another twist when Stone Brewing, the largest brewery in the county, was bought by Japanese conglomerate Sapporo.
Surprisingly, the craft beer community’s reaction to this acquisition was largely muted.
A significant transformation has occurred in the craft beer landscape, where several original champions of the craft beer movement have transitioned into corporate ownership.
Well-known names like Lagunitas, owned by Heineken, and Firestone Walker, acquired by Duvel Moortgat, along with others like New Belgium, Bell’s, and Ommegang, have found themselves under the umbrella of larger entities.
To understand this changing dynamic, I approached Erik Fowler, the president of the San Diego Brewers Guild, with a challenging question: Are craft beer enthusiasts still echoing a call for independence?
Fowler’s response was candid, indicating the complexities of the current situation: “If I had a quick, clean answer for you, I’d make a lot of money. It’s very fluid.”
He elaborated on the evolving meaning of ‘craft beer,’ emphasizing that, rather than industry definitions, it is now the consumer who defines it based on what resonates with them.
Despite Anheuser-Busch’s fraught history with the craft beer scene, it’s unlikely that 10 Barrel will receive a warm welcome moving forward.
In another scene, the Cohn Restaurant Group (CRG) recently celebrated the first anniversary of its partnership with Tarantula Hill Brewery from Thousand Oaks, which also has a location in San Marcos.
At CRG’s establishments in La Mesa, including Casa Gabriela and Coin Haus, Tarantula Hill produces a diverse lineup including a Mexican lager, a West Coast IPA, a hazy IPA, and a blonde ale that has variations depending on the venue.
Jon Boyle, CRG’s operations manager, suggested a tasty pairing: “When we use the blonde ale at Casa Gabriela, it makes a mean michelada.”
As we delve into upcoming events, Brewery X introduces its new Hoppy Harbor, a session ale at 4.9 percent ABV, launching at San Diego’s Sheraton this weekend.
From 3 to 10 p.m. on both days, guests can indulge in pints priced at $5.
As for quick sips of notable brews that have characterized the craft beer revolution, we cannot overlook Samuel Adams Boston Lager, recognized for its role in propelling the craft beer movement forward.
This 5 percent ABV amber lager remains a robust choice, boasting toasted caramel flavors and a refreshing finish.
Another noteworthy mention is Sierra Nevada’s Summerfest, a seasonal pilsner at 5 percent ABV that stands strong among its contemporary competitors.
Lastly, Ballast Point’s California Kolsch, at 5.2 percent ABV, continues to exemplify the quality and variety that the craft beer movement initially promised.
This Independence Day, as we reflect on the changes and challenges within the world of craft beer, we celebrate not only the essence of independence but also the evolution of our taste as consumers.
image source from：sandiegouniontribune
