The two California breweries that are merging are Bear Republic Brewing and Drake's Brewing. This exciting news was recently announced, making the merger official. The owners of Bear Republic, Rich and Tami Norgrove, are joining forces with John Martin and Roy Kirkorian of Drake's Brewing.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have followed the craft beer industry closely and have had the pleasure of trying beers from both Bear Republic and Drake's Brewing. Each brewery has its own unique style and approach to brewing, and I am thrilled to see what this collaboration will bring.
Bear Republic Brewing, located in Cloverdale, has been a staple in the craft beer community for many years. They are known for their bold and flavorful beers, with standout offerings like their Racer 5 IPA and Big Bear Black Stout. I have always admired their commitment to quality and their ability to consistently produce exceptional beers.
Drake's Brewing, on the other hand, is based in San Leandro and has built a strong reputation for their innovative and experimental brews. They have a wide range of styles in their portfolio, from hop-forward IPAs to barrel-aged sours. I have had the pleasure of trying their Denogginizer Double IPA and was impressed by its balance of hop bitterness and malt sweetness.
The merger of Bear Republic and Drake's Brewing brings together two well-respected breweries with a shared passion for brewing excellent beer. It will be interesting to see how their individual strengths and expertise will complement each other in this partnership.
In terms of the business side of the merger, I believe it could provide both breweries with opportunities for growth and expansion. By joining forces, they can pool their resources and reach a larger audience. This could lead to increased distribution and availability of their beers, allowing more people to experience the craftsmanship and creativity that both breweries bring to the table.
Additionally, the merger could also lead to exciting collaborations between the brewers at Bear Republic and Drake's Brewing. With their combined knowledge and experience, they could push the boundaries of what is possible in craft beer, creating unique and innovative brews that stand out in an increasingly crowded market.
The merger of Bear Republic and Drake's Brewing is an exciting development in the craft beer industry. It brings together two breweries with a shared commitment to quality and creativity, and I eagerly await the new beers that will come from this partnership. Cheers to the future of craft beer in California!