10 Barrel Brewery is indeed owned by Anheuser-Busch. The acquisition took place in 2014, when Anheuser-Busch purchased the brewery. This move was part of Anheuser-Busch's strategy to expand its presence in the craft beer market and to diversify its portfolio of beer offerings.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have observed the impact of ownership changes in the craft beer industry. While some beer enthusiasts may be skeptical of large beer corporations acquiring smaller, independent breweries, there are both positive and negative aspects to such acquisitions.
One positive aspect is the increased distribution and availability of the acquired brewery's beers. Anheuser-Busch's extensive distribution network allows 10 Barrel Brewery to reach a wider audience across the country. This means that beer lovers in areas where 10 Barrel Brewery was previously unavailable now have the opportunity to try their beers. Personally, I have experienced the frustration of wanting to try a beer from a smaller brewery but not being able to find it in my local area. Acquisitions like this can help solve that problem and introduce more people to the diverse world of craft beer.
Another benefit of being owned by a larger company is the financial resources and support they can provide. Smaller breweries often face challenges when it comes to scaling up production, expanding facilities, or investing in new equipment. With the backing of a company like Anheuser-Busch, 10 Barrel Brewery has likely been able to invest in these areas and grow their operations more quickly than they would have been able to on their own.
However, there are also potential downsides to being owned by a large corporation. One concern is the loss of independence and the risk of the acquired brewery's unique identity being diluted or compromised. Craft beer enthusiasts often appreciate the individuality and creativity of small breweries, and there is a fear that being owned by a big company could lead to a focus on profit over quality or innovation.
Additionally, with ownership changes, there is sometimes a perception among beer enthusiasts that the quality of the beer may suffer. Some worry that the recipes and brewing techniques of the acquired brewery may be altered or compromised to fit into a more mainstream market. However, it's important to note that not all acquisitions result in negative changes, and many breweries maintain their commitment to quality and integrity even after being bought by a larger company.
In the case of 10 Barrel Brewery, it's worth noting that they still operate their original brewpub locations in Bend and have expanded to include additional locations in Portland and Boise. This suggests that they have been able to maintain some level of autonomy and continue to produce their unique beers.
The acquisition of 10 Barrel Brewery by Anheuser-Busch is a reflection of the changing landscape of the craft beer industry. While there may be concerns about the impact of such acquisitions, there are also potential benefits in terms of increased distribution and financial support. It's important for beer enthusiasts to evaluate each situation individually and make their own decisions about which breweries to support based on factors such as quality, values, and personal preferences.