Brooklyn Brewery was founded by Steve Hindy and Tom Potter in 1988. Steve Hindy, a former Middle East correspondent for the Associated Press, had developed a passion for home brewing while living in Saudi Arabia. When he returned to the United States, he teamed up with his neighbor Tom Potter, who had a background in finance, and they decided to start a brewery together.
The idea of starting a brewery in Brooklyn was not an easy one at the time. The area was struggling economically, and the beer industry was dominated by large, mass-produced brands. However, Hindy and Potter were determined to bring craft beer to the people of Brooklyn and revitalize the local brewing scene.
Their first hurdle was finding a location for the brewery. They eventually settled on a former matzo factory in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. The building was in disrepair, but Hindy and Potter saw its potential. They spent months renovating the space and getting it ready for brewing.
Once the brewery was up and running, Hindy and Potter faced the challenge of introducing their beer to the public. Craft beer was still a niche market at the time, and many people were unfamiliar with the concept. They started by selling their beer at local bars and restaurants, and slowly but surely, word began to spread about the quality and uniqueness of Brooklyn Brewery's offerings.
Over the years, Brooklyn Brewery has grown and evolved. They have expanded their distribution to include not just Brooklyn, but the entire United States and over 30 countries around the world. They have also collaborated with other breweries and introduced new styles and flavors to their lineup.
One thing that has remained constant throughout the years is Brooklyn Brewery's commitment to quality and innovation. They continue to push the boundaries of what beer can be, experimenting with different ingredients and techniques to create new and exciting flavors. They have also been at the forefront of the craft beer movement, helping to popularize the idea of small-batch, locally brewed beer.
In 2020, Brooklyn Brewery made another move to expand their reach by launching Brooklyn Pilsner, a premium beer aimed at the growing market of beer connoisseurs. This move was part of their ongoing investment in the brand and their commitment to providing high-quality, flavorful beers to consumers.
The story of Brooklyn Brewery is one of passion, perseverance, and a commitment to quality. Hindy and Potter's vision has not only revitalized the beer scene in Brooklyn but has also had a lasting impact on the craft beer industry as a whole.