Stone Brewing is currently owned by Sapporo Breweries, a Japanese brewing company. This unexpected acquisition came as a surprise to many in the craft beer community, as Stone Brewing has long been championed as an independent and fiercely anti-corporate brewery.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of experiencing Stone Brewing's incredible beers firsthand. Their commitment to quality, innovation, and pushing the boundaries of craft beer has made them a beloved and respected brewery worldwide. It is disheartening to see such a revered brewery fall into the hands of a large corporation.
Stone Brewing's journey to becoming one of the most highly regarded breweries in the world was not an easy one. Founded in 1996 by Greg Koch and Steve Wagner, the brewery faced numerous challenges and setbacks in its early years. However, their unwavering dedication to brewing bold and flavorful beers eventually paid off, and Stone Brewing quickly gained a reputation for excellence.
Over the years, Stone Brewing has become synonymous with the West Coast IPA style, known for its hop-forward and assertively bitter character. Their flagship beer, Stone IPA, is a testament to their commitment to quality and their ability to produce consistently exceptional beers. I have had the pleasure of enjoying this beer on several occasions, and each time, it never fails to impress with its vibrant hop aromas and flavors.
In addition to their IPA offerings, Stone Brewing has also delved into other beer styles, including stouts, barleywines, and Belgian-inspired ales. Their Arrogant Bastard Ale, a strong ale with a bold and assertive character, has become a cult favorite among beer enthusiasts. I remember the first time I tried this beer, and it left a lasting impression with its intense maltiness and hop bitterness.
Stone Brewing's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility is also worth noting. They were one of the first breweries to install a comprehensive solar energy system, reducing their carbon footprint and setting an example for others in the industry. This dedication to sustainability is something that I greatly admire and respect.
The news of Sapporo Breweries acquiring Stone Brewing raises concerns about the future direction of the brewery. Will Sapporo maintain the same commitment to quality and innovation that Stone Brewing has become known for? Or will we see a shift towards more mainstream and mass-produced beers?
While it is too early to say for certain, I can't help but feel a sense of apprehension about this acquisition. Craft beer is about more than just the liquid in the bottle; it's about the passion, creativity, and independent spirit of the brewers behind it. I hope that Sapporo recognizes and respects this, allowing Stone Brewing to continue to thrive and innovate under their ownership.
As of June 2022, Stone Brewing is owned by Sapporo Breweries. The acquisition of this renowned craft brewery by a large corporation has raised concerns within the craft beer community. It remains to be seen how this ownership change will impact the future of Stone Brewing and its commitment to quality and innovation.