Biersch Brewery, although founded by Dan Gordon and Dean Biersch, is not technically considered a German brewery. While Dan Gordon did graduate from the renowned five-year brewing engineering program at Weihenstephan in Germany, it is important to note that the brewery itself is an American establishment.
The first Gordon Biersch brewery restaurant was opened in Palo Alto, California, in July 1988, showcasing a unique fusion of German brewing techniques and American culinary influences. This blend of traditions is what sets Gordon Biersch apart and makes it a distinctive brewery in the American craft beer scene.
While the founders, Dan Gordon and Dean Biersch, brought their knowledge and expertise from Germany, they also incorporated their own experiences and innovations into their brewing process. This allowed them to create a unique style of beer that is not purely German, but rather a blend of German brewing techniques and American creativity.
It is worth mentioning that Gordon Biersch does produce German-style beers, including their popular Märzen and Hefeweizen varieties. These beers adhere to the traditional German brewing methods and recipes, utilizing specific ingredients and fermentation techniques. However, the brewery also offers a range of other beer styles that may not necessarily be considered strictly German.
In my personal experience, I have visited several Gordon Biersch brewery restaurants and have had the opportunity to sample their beers. While some of their offerings do exhibit German characteristics, such as the crispness and maltiness found in their Märzen, others showcase a more American influence, with bold hop flavors and innovative brewing techniques.
While Gordon Biersch Brewery incorporates German brewing techniques and produces German-style beers, it is not exclusively a German brewery. The founders' German training and expertise certainly play a significant role in the brewery's identity, but their incorporation of American influences and their unique brewing approach make Gordon Biersch a distinctively American craft brewery.