The forklift gingerly lowers the grist case onto the mash tun.
Our March post mentioned that things were “gettin’ real,” but honestly, that was a bit of hyperbole; we pretty much just kept on with the process of virtual planning - permits, insurance, licenses, financing, etc. But now, we really are gettin’ real: the past seven days witnessed two very significant developments: 1) we poured a concrete platform, and 2) took delivery of our brewing system.
Though merely a slab of humble concrete, the Platform with a capital P is a work of art, with ramps, curbs, slopes and trench drains, ensuring efficient workflow and maximum cleanliness, all in the service of producing great beer. And on that note, the brewing equipment, manufactured by AAA Metal Fabrication, is the heart of our brewery, and an absolute thing of beauty. The 20 barrel system will produce 600+ gallons (around 40 kegs) per batch, and the gorgeous polished stainless steel will be in plain view of our taproom customers, who will enjoy their beverage knowing that it was made twenty feet from where they’re sitting.
Next steps: Build the plumbing and electrical infrastructure, and start in on those test batches! (oh, and also build the taproom, bathrooms, offices, create signage, get kegs, tap handles, cans, T-shirts, caps, chairs, tables, UPC codes, coasters, stickers, growlers, lab equipment, glassware…and so on).