Where did Reformation brewery start?

Answered by Michael Blake

Reformation , the Woodstock, Georgia, brewery that I co-founded and currently serve as CEO, has an intriguing origin story. It all began in the small town of Woodstock, which is nestled in the northern part of the state. Woodstock, with its charming Main Street and vibrant community, provided the perfect backdrop for our brewing venture.

The idea to start a brewery came to me during a trip to Europe, where I had the opportunity to explore the rich traditions and vibrant scene. Inspired by the passion and craftsmanship I witnessed, I returned to Woodstock with a burning desire to bring that same level of quality and creativity to our local community.

So, in 2013, armed with a vision and a deep love for beer, I teamed up with a group of like-minded individuals who shared my passion. Together, we embarked on the journey of creating Reformation Brewing. We chose the name “Reformation” to symbolize our commitment to challenging the status quo and redefining what beer could be.

At the outset, we faced numerous challenges, as is expected when starting any business. We had limited resources and had to navigate the complexities of licensing, zoning, and securing financing. However, we were undeterred by these obstacles and remained steadfast in our belief that Woodstock deserved a brewery that would not only produce exceptional beer but also contribute positively to the community.

After months of hard work, perseverance, and countless late nights, we finally opened our doors in 2014. Our small, modest taproom quickly became a gathering place for beer enthusiasts, locals, and visitors alike. The warm and inviting atmosphere, coupled with our dedication to brewing exceptional beers, helped us build a loyal following from the start.

As Reformation Brewing grew, so did our ambitions. We expanded our production capacity, allowing us to distribute our beers to more locations throughout Georgia. The demand for our beers continued to rise, and we found ourselves constantly pushing the boundaries of what we could create.

One of the defining moments in our journey was the introduction of our flagship beer, “Cadence.” This Belgian-style quickly became a fan favorite, capturing the essence of our brewing philosophy – balance, complexity, and approachability. Cadence, with its notes of fruit, spice, and a touch of sweetness, perfectly embodied the spirit of Reformation Brewing.

But our growth didn't stop there. We soon opened a second location, The Abbey, which served as a taproom and event space. This expansion allowed us to further connect with our community and create a space where people could gather, celebrate, and enjoy our beers in a unique setting.

Today, Reformation Brewing continues to thrive and evolve. We remain committed to our mission of producing high-quality, thoughtfully crafted beers that inspire conversation and connection. Our team of talented brewers constantly experiments with new flavors and brewing techniques, ensuring that each beer we release is a testament to our dedication to the craft.

Looking back on our journey, I am incredibly grateful for the support we have received from the Woodstock community and beyond. It is their enthusiasm and passion for great beer that has propelled us forward and allowed us to realize our vision. As we continue to grow, we remain deeply rooted in our hometown, always striving to make Woodstock proud.

Reformation Brewing began in the picturesque town of Woodstock, Georgia, where a group of passionate individuals came together with a shared vision to challenge the norms of beer and create something truly special. Through hard work, determination, and the unwavering support of our community, we have built a thriving brewery that continues to push the boundaries of craft beer.