Southern Tier Brewing Company originated in Lakewood, NY, a small town nestled in the Southern Tier region of New York State. The brewery's humble beginnings can be traced back to 2002, when it was established on a serene and wooded property, tucked away on a quiet road. This serene setting provided the perfect backdrop for the creation of exceptional craft beers that would soon captivate beer enthusiasts across the United States.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of exploring the origins of various breweries, and Southern Tier's story has always intrigued me. The founders of Southern Tier had a vision to create bold and innovative beers that would push the boundaries of traditional brewing. With this goal in mind, they set out to establish their brewery in Lakewood, a place that would become synonymous with exceptional craft beers.
The decision to locate Southern Tier in Lakewood was not arbitrary, but rather a deliberate choice to embrace the unique characteristics of the Southern Tier region. This picturesque area is known for its natural beauty, with rolling hills, dense forests, and pristine lakes. The founders recognized that the region's natural resources, such as its pure water sources, would contribute to the quality and flavor of their beers.
Moreover, the Southern Tier region has a rich agricultural heritage, with fertile soil that supports the growth of high-quality ingredients. This agricultural abundance provided Southern Tier with access to locally sourced grains, hops, and other ingredients essential for crafting their distinctive beers. By utilizing these local resources, Southern Tier was able to create beers that truly embodied the essence of the region.
In my personal experiences visiting Southern Tier Brewing Company, I was struck by the profound sense of pride and dedication exhibited by the staff. The brewery's location in Lakewood seemed to foster a strong sense of community and a deep connection to the land. This connection was evident in every aspect of the brewery, from the care taken in selecting ingredients to the meticulous brewing process.
Southern Tier's journey from a small brewery in Lakewood to becoming an industry leader in craft beer is a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. Over the years, they have expanded their offerings to include a wide range of styles, from hop-forward IPAs to decadent stouts and everything in between. This versatility has allowed them to appeal to a diverse audience of beer lovers who appreciate their dedication to pushing the boundaries of flavor.
As I reflect on the origins of Southern Tier, I am reminded of the power of place and the influence it can have on the creation of exceptional craft beers. The decision to establish the brewery in Lakewood was not only a strategic one, but also a deeply personal one. It was a choice to embrace the natural beauty and resources of the Southern Tier region, and to create beers that would reflect the spirit of the land. This commitment to place is what sets Southern Tier apart and continues to make them a beloved and respected name in the craft beer industry.