Welcome to Iowa: A Craft Brewing Haven
While some might only recognize Iowa from its musical tribute in “The Music Man,” Doug Goettsch saw the heartland as the perfect canvas for a bold craft beer venture. Departing from his career at the Culinary Institute of America in Napa Valley, Goettsch was drawn back to Iowa’s rustic charm. Nestled amidst sprawling cornfields and towering wind turbines, Goettsch’s dream took shape in a spot once famed for its pork tenderloins.
Driving a robust TRD 4×4 adorned with Big Grove’s unique hop-corn logo, Goettsch embodies the essence of Iowa. From the moment we arrived, it was clear that this wasn’t just about beer—this was about community. Our journey began in Solon, a quaint town that houses Big Grove Brewery’s flagship brewpub. Since opening in 2013, this bustling spot has been the pride of the area, drawing crowds eager to taste both the brews and the camaraderie.
The Craft Beer Community of Big Grove
Originally hailing from Iowa, Goettsch envisioned a brewery that would mirror the strength and vitality of the region. Big Grove Brewery has not only carved a path as Iowa’s top craft beer brand with their hit Hazy IPA, Easy Eddy, but they’ve also championed the local sports scene as the official craft beer of the Iowa Hawkeyes. With expansion plans that now stretch to neighboring states like Nebraska, Big Grove is certainly on the move.
Iowa City boasts one of the grandest taprooms in the state, a staggering venue that pairs perfectly with its vibrant beer culture. Despite his jest, “I don’t know a thing about beer,” Goettsch’s collaboration with industry veterans like Matt and Faye Swift has propelled Big Grove into the brewing spotlight. Through partnerships and passion, this brewery is not just a place to grab a pint; it’s an institution of Iowan pride.
Brewing Creativity: A Look at Big Grove’s Craft
At Solon, Big Grove’s brewing ingenuity began with Bill Heinrich, who piloted a brewhouse teeming with potential. Experimenting with sours and lagers, the lineup flourished with offerings like Citrus Surfer and the diverse Eddy family of IPAs. Under the watchful eye of head brewer Andy Joynt, Big Grove continues to introduce new delights every week, cementing their reputation as boundary-pushers in the craft beer community.
From expanding production to match increasing demand to acquiring state-of-the-art brewing equipment, Big Grove’s operations in Iowa City are a testament to their ambition. The brewery’s dedication to quality and innovation stands as a beacon for what the craft beer industry can achieve when locally rooted yet globally minded.
Savoring the Flavors of Richard The Whale
Each December, Big Grove enthusiasts eagerly await the release of Richard The Whale, an expertly crafted Russian imperial stout aged in bourbon barrels for eleven months. This annual event goes beyond the barrel with festivities that include exclusive dinners and bottle trades. Fans camp out early to secure their taste, making it a community celebration as much as a beer release.
The brewery’s approach is clear: embrace creativity while honoring tradition. From Mexican hot chocolate to the creamy allure of Tembleque, Ophelia Olson’s contributions as a cellarwoman add layers of cultural richness to Big Grove’s offerings, underscoring their commitment to innovation and excellence in craft brewing.
Gastronomy Meets Brewing at Big Grove
The culinary aspect of Big Grove’s operation is far from an afterthought. With masterful chefs like Ben Smart leading the charge, the food complements the beer, elevating the brewpub experience. From signature mac & cheese to globally inspired dishes, the menu captures a balance of familiarity and exploration, enhancing the overall hospitality ethos.
Seasoned chefs deliver dishes that intrigue and satisfy, ensuring that visitors leave with memorable experiences. Seasonal specialties during exclusive events, like the Richard The Whale release, showcase the talent and creativity flourishing within Big Grove’s team, making it a culinary destination within the heartland.
Brewing Connections Through Hospitality
“Make them return,” is a philosophy instilled in every team member at Big Grove. This unwavering dedication to outstanding service fuels their growth, not just as a brewery but as a pillar of the community. With goals set ambitiously for the future, their focus remains on deepening local relationships and nurturing a loyal following.
Big Grove For Good extends their impact beyond brewing, partnering with local nonprofits to empower communities. Such initiatives demonstrate their commitment to giving back, proving that craft beer can indeed be a force for community enhancement. As you journey through Iowa and beyond, let BreweriesNearMe.us guide you to incredible destinations like Big Grove—the soul of craft beer.
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