The Myth Behind Icarus Brewing
In the world of Greek mythology, the story of Icarus may be a cautionary tale about ambition, but for Icarus Brewing owner Jason Goldstein, it’s about audacious creativity. Goldstein draws inspiration from the story not as a warning, but as an encouragement to take risks and innovate. “Though Icarus’ wings partially led to his downfall, their creation was itself an act of ingenuity,” Goldstein muses, highlighting the mythical figure’s daring escape with his father from imprisonment by crafting wings.
It’s this spirit of exploration and creativity that led Icarus Brewing to become a standout on BreweriesNearMe.us’s highly anticipated “11 Best Breweries of 2024” list. At Icarus, much like Icarus himself, the goal is to soar, balancing creative risks with pragmatic decisions. “We always try to do something new while keeping a grounded approach,” Goldstein notes. This balance, much like Icarus’s legendary flight, demonstrates an enthusiasm for innovation tempered by caution.
From Food Science to Craft Beer
Goldstein’s journey into the craft beer world began in the vibrant halls of Ohio State University, where he first explored food science. His fascination with fermentation was kindled at Elevator Brewing Company, working from the ground up on the bottling line. This hands-on experience fueled his passion, eventually leading him to the Brew Lab at the University of Sunderland in England. Here, he refined his skills under the tutelage of master brewers from global beer giants, soaking in a wealth of brewing knowledge.
After gaining invaluable experience overseas, Goldstein brought his newfound skills back to the United States. Bouncing between different breweries, he honed his craft before finally opening his own brewery in New Jersey. His journey underscores the importance of combining practical experience with technical knowledge — a foundational approach that has made Icarus Brewing a notable fixture in the craft beer landscape.
Brewed on the Jersey Shore
Opening Icarus Brewing in Lakewood, NJ, was a calculated move by Goldstein, who saw a unique opportunity to bring something different to the Garden State. Breaking the mold, Icarus launched without the usual lineup—it debuted with a French saison, doppelbock, and red ale rather than the ubiquitous IPA. This distinctive choice underscored the brewery’s mission to stand out not only through their adventurous beer styles but also by fostering a sense of community.
Icarus quickly became a cornerstone of local pride, drawing a diverse clientele, including members of Lakewood’s Hasidic Orthodox Jewish community. For Shane Gertner, Icarus’ Director of Sales, the brewery became an unexpected link to his roots and a testament to local pride. The taproom has become a beloved gathering spot for alumni and locals alike, blending craft beer culture with Lakewood’s rich heritage.
Growing Community with Brewing Creativity
Five years after its opening, Icarus had to expand to accommodate its growing popularity. Relocating to a sprawling 22,000-square-foot facility in Brick, NJ, the brewery finally had the space it needed to flourish. With roomier digs, the brewery offers a vibrant beer garden and extensive production capabilities, seamlessly blending community events with the art of brewing.
Icarus’ taproom is more than just a space; it’s a communal venue that hums with energy as patrons gather over shared beer experiences. On any given night, the brewery buzzes with camaraderie, echoing Goldstein’s ambition to create a space where people can enjoy not just great beer, but a sense of belonging. Gertner emphasizes, “We aim to build a space where everyone can enjoy our beers and create lasting memories.”
Anchored by Flagship Brews
The star of Icarus’ repertoire is Yacht Juice, a Northeast-style IPA that balances simplicity with drinkability, avoiding unnecessary complexity while maintaining an eight percent ABV smoothness. This flagship beer, with its harmonious blend of Citra, Mosaic, and Columbus hops, epitomizes the brewery’s philosophy: striking the right balance between bold flavor and approachability.
Brewed with meticulous care, Yacht Juice isn’t about pushing boundaries with unusual ingredients but perfecting a classic style to ensure it’s accessible and enjoyable. Alongside Yacht Juice, other standout brews like Furio, an Italian pilsner named after a beloved “Sopranos” character, and the fan-favorite Ichi for the Michi, a Japanese rice lager, showcase the brewery’s dedication to craft, creativity, and originality.
Crafting a Legacy
At Icarus Brewing, the ambition isn’t just to brew great beer but to create a lasting legacy in the craft beer community. Goldstein champions a philosophy of growth that prioritizes sustainability and thoughtful expansion. “We’re always trying to find something different to excel at while remaining grounded,” he explains. It’s a strategy that has allowed Icarus Brewing not only to thrive but resonate deeply within its community, much like the legendary tale from which its name is derived.
The ethos of Icarus Brewing resonates with the craft beer community’s broader shift towards purposeful creativity and community engagement. The narrative may borrow from mythology, but the journey of Icarus Brewing is one of modern craft beer success—rooted firmly on the ground, yet always ready to take flight without losing sight of where it started.
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