While examples of these stereotypes exist at bars throughout the nation (and probably the world), a visit to local microbreweries tells a much different story. Microbreweries produce small batches of craft beers, made using a traditional process of blending malted grains with hop flowers and water. In general, craft beers have more flavor, color and aroma than mass-produced beer, says Chris Verich, co-owner and manager of brewing operations at Ohio Brewing Company in downtown Akron.
The microbrewing process begins with malted barley, which is put in a hopper and conveyed to the brew house where it cooks in hot water and mash/lauter tun, and is converted from starch into a liquid sugar, called wort. The clear wort is then strained and transferred to the brew kettle where it is brought to a boil. Then comes time to add the hops, which give the beer its bitterness and acts as a natural preservative, Verich says. After boiling for a couple hours, the wort is cooled down to room temperature and transferred to a fermenter. This is where the yeast is added to convert the wort to alcohol and carbon dioxide. Fermentation takes about 10-12 days for ales, and three weeks or more for lagers, Verich explains.
When fermentation is complete, the beers are cooled to approximately 33 degrees and transferred to the serving tanks (where carbonation is added), then on to the tap and eventually into your glass. For lighter beers, the yeast is filtered out before it reaches the serving tank.
Each brewery has a head brewer (or brewmaster) who takes great care in overseeing the brewing process, managing day-to-day tasks of brewing and creating new recipes. You’ll find that most microbreweries offer certain beers on tap regularly in addition to a few seasonal or specialty brews. Some breweries also make their beers available for outside distribution or retail purchase, while others are available exclusively in their brewpub.
Unlike your favorite hole-in-the-wall bar, many microbreweries are destinations that offer a chance to watch the brewing process and enjoy high-quality craft beers and a sumptuous meal in a unique environment. Craft beers aren’t meant for you to down thoughtlessly, but rather to savor the complexities and compare, much like you would fine wines.
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