Goose Island Brewery is indeed owned by Anheuser Busch. The brewery was acquired by Anheuser Busch in 2011, when they purchased a 58% stake in the company. Then, in 2016, Anheuser Busch went on to acquire the remaining 42% of Goose Island, making it a wholly-owned subsidiary of the larger brewery.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have followed the developments of the craft beer industry closely, and the acquisition of Goose Island by Anheuser Busch was a significant milestone in the industry. It sparked a lot of conversation and debate among beer enthusiasts and industry professionals.
Goose Island has a rich history in the craft beer scene. It was founded in Chicago in 1988 by John Hall, who had a passion for brewing unique and flavorful beers. Over the years, Goose Island gained a loyal following for its innovative and high-quality brews.
When the news of the acquisition broke, there were mixed reactions from beer lovers. Some were excited about the increased distribution and resources that Anheuser Busch could provide to Goose Island, while others were concerned about the potential impact on the brewery's independence and beer quality.
However, it's important to note that despite being owned by Anheuser Busch, Goose Island still operates as a separate entity. The original brewpub on Clybourn Ave in Chicago continues to serve brunch, lunch, and dinner alongside their range of beers. Goose Island's main production facility, known as the Fulton Street brewery, remains in operation as well.
From a business standpoint, the acquisition by Anheuser Busch has allowed Goose Island to expand its reach and increase production. Their beers are now available in more locations across the United States and even internationally. This increased distribution has helped to introduce more people to Goose Island's beers and the craft beer movement as a whole.
However, there are certainly those who believe that the acquisition has resulted in changes to Goose Island's beers. Some argue that the quality and uniqueness of their brews have suffered as a result of the acquisition. Others feel that Goose Island has managed to maintain its commitment to crafting high-quality and innovative beers, despite the ownership change.
In my personal experience, I have had the opportunity to try a range of Goose Island beers both before and after the acquisition. While I can't deny that there may have been some changes in their offerings, I have still found many of their beers to be enjoyable and well-crafted.
Ultimately, the question of whether Goose Island's acquisition by Anheuser Busch is a positive or negative development is subjective and depends on individual perspectives and priorities. Some beer enthusiasts prioritize supporting independent craft breweries, while others focus more on the taste and quality of the beers themselves.
Goose Island Brewery is indeed owned by Anheuser Busch. The acquisition has brought both benefits and challenges to the brewery, and opinions on the matter vary among beer enthusiasts. As a sommelier and brewer, I encourage beer lovers to try a variety of beers and make their own judgments based on their personal tastes and preferences.