What is a tap take over?

Answered by Jesse Garza

A tap takeover is an event in the craft industry where a brewery or a group of breweries takes control of the taps at a bar or restaurant for a designated period of time. During a tap takeover, the featured brewery's beers are the exclusive offerings on tap, temporarily displacing the regular selection of beers from other breweries.

The purpose of a tap takeover is to showcase the featured brewery's beers and give customers the opportunity to try a wide variety of their offerings in one place. It allows the brewery to promote their brand, build awareness, and create excitement among beer enthusiasts. It also provides a unique experience for beer lovers to explore different styles and flavors from a particular brewery.

During a tap takeover, the regular beers from other breweries are temporarily unavailable. This means that customers who frequent the establishment may not have access to their usual favorite beers during the event. This can be a disappointment for some, but it also presents an opportunity for them to try something new and discover different breweries and styles.

The duration of a tap takeover can vary. Some takeovers may last for just one day, while others can span several days or even weeks. Larger takeovers, often referred to as “total tap takeovers,” involve showcasing the entire lineup of a brewery's beers and may last for an extended period of time.

In my personal experience, tap takeovers have been exciting events that bring a sense of anticipation and adventure. It's a great opportunity to sample a wide range of beers from a specific brewery and immerse oneself in their unique flavors and styles. I've attended tap takeovers where I discovered new favorite beers that I wouldn't have otherwise tried.

However, it is important to note that tap takeovers can have some downsides. For regular customers of the establishment, it can be disappointing to have their favorite beers temporarily unavailable. Additionally, if the featured beers don't sell well during the event, it can lead to the temporary displacement of other breweries' beers for a longer period of time. This can be frustrating for both customers and breweries that may lose out on sales and exposure.

A tap takeover is an event where a brewery or group of breweries takes control of the taps at a bar or restaurant, showcasing their beers and temporarily displacing other breweries' offerings. It provides an opportunity for beer enthusiasts to explore a variety of beers from a specific brewery and can create excitement and anticipation. However, it can also have drawbacks, such as temporarily knocking other craft beers off the taps and potentially causing longer disruptions if the featured beers don't sell well.