Why is 805 called 805? This question takes us back to 2012 when Firestone Walker, a renowned brewery, decided to release a new beer called 805. The name itself holds significance as it pays homage to the brewery's home region of the Central Coast in California.
The number 805 represents the area code of the Central Coast, which includes cities like San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura. By naming their beer after the region's area code, Firestone Walker aimed to create a sense of local pride and connection. They wanted to establish a beer that not only represented their brewery but also celebrated the community that supported them.
Initially, 805 was intended to be sold mainly within the Central Coast. It was meant to be a local brew, catering to the tastes and preferences of the region. However, its popularity quickly grew beyond expectations. People from all over California and even other states began seeking out this blonde ale, drawn to its crisp and refreshing qualities.
So, why did 805 become so popular? Well, as a sommelier and brewer, I can tell you that it's a combination of factors that contributed to its success. Firstly, the beer itself is well-crafted and enjoyable to drink. 805 is a blonde ale, a style known for its approachability and drinkability. It has a clean, malt-forward profile with subtle hop bitterness and a smooth finish. This makes it appealing to a wide range of beer drinkers, from those who prefer light lagers to those who enjoy more flavorful ales.
Secondly, Firestone Walker has built a strong reputation for producing high-quality beers. They have a track record of consistently creating exceptional brews that resonate with beer enthusiasts. This reputation, combined with the allure of a locally crafted beer, helped propel 805 to greater recognition.
Another factor that played a role in 805's popularity is the marketing and branding efforts by Firestone Walker. They embraced the Central Coast theme and incorporated it into their packaging and promotional materials. The label design features a stylized map of the region, reinforcing the beer's connection to its place of origin. This branding strategy resonated with consumers, as many people enjoy supporting local businesses and products.
Furthermore, word of mouth and positive reviews from beer enthusiasts also contributed to 805's rise in popularity. Craft beer lovers, always on the lookout for new and exciting brews, began recommending 805 to their friends and spreading the word through online communities and beer festivals. This grassroots support helped the beer gain traction and expand its reach beyond the Central Coast.
In my personal experience, I have seen the impact of 805's popularity firsthand. As a sommelier, I have encountered numerous customers who specifically asked for 805 when looking for a light and refreshing beer. Its reputation as a crowd-pleaser and its connection to the Central Coast make it a go-to option for many people.
To sum it up, 805 is called 805 because it represents the area code of the Central Coast, where Firestone Walker Brewery is located. The beer was initially meant to be a local brew, but its exceptional taste, strong branding, and positive word of mouth propelled it to become a popular choice across California and beyond. Its success can be attributed to the combination of a well-crafted beer, a strong brewery reputation, effective marketing, and the support of beer enthusiasts.