The owner and operator of Lower Forge Brewing is Sean Galie. Sean's journey into the world of brewing and owning a brewery is quite interesting and unexpected. He admits that it all started “kind of by accident,” which immediately piques my curiosity.
Before delving into the origins of Lower Forge Brewing, I must mention that Sean is not only a brewer but also an expert sommelier. This combination of expertise in both beer and wine adds a unique perspective to his brewery and the craft beers he creates.
As Sean narrates, the story of Lower Forge Brewing began unintentionally. It was not a meticulously planned venture but rather a serendipitous turn of events. Sean had a passion for brewing beer as a hobby, experimenting with different flavors and techniques in his home. Little did he know that this passion would eventually lead him to become the proud owner of a brewery.
One day, while sharing his homebrewed beer with friends and family, Sean received an overwhelmingly positive response. Encouraged by their enthusiasm and support, he started to envision the possibility of turning his hobby into a profession. The idea began to take root in his mind, and he decided to take the leap and open his own brewery.
Lower Forge Brewing was born out of this passion and the desire to share Sean's unique beer creations with a wider audience. The name of the brewery is a nod to the rich history of Medford, New Jersey, where it is located. The area was once home to numerous iron forges, and Lower Forge was one of them. Sean wanted to pay homage to this history while also infusing his own personality and style into the brewery.
As the owner and operator of Lower Forge Brewing, Sean takes great pride in every aspect of his business. From crafting the recipes and brewing the beers to managing the day-to-day operations, he is intimately involved in every step of the process. This hands-on approach ensures that each beer produced at Lower Forge is a reflection of his passion and expertise.
In addition to his brewing skills, Sean's background as a sommelier also influences the way he approaches beer. He brings a deep understanding of flavor profiles, balance, and pairing to his craft. This unique perspective allows him to create beers that are not only delicious on their own but also pair well with different types of cuisine.
Owning a brewery is not without its challenges, and Sean has faced his fair share. However, his dedication and love for what he does keep him motivated. He continually strives to improve and innovate, pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved in the world of craft beer.
As I listen to Sean's story, I am struck by his genuine passion and enthusiasm for brewing. It is evident that Lower Forge Brewing is not just a business venture for him but a labor of love. He pours his heart and soul into every aspect of the brewery, ensuring that each beer is a true representation of his craft.
Sean Galie is the proud owner and operator of Lower Forge Brewing in Medford, New Jersey. His journey into brewing and owning a brewery may have started by accident, but his dedication, expertise, and passion have transformed it into something truly remarkable.