Brewing Up A Lifestyle Crafting beer can be a hobby—or an allconsuming business By Stephanie Lallement
“It’s my day off,” Jack said to himself. “Time to get to work.” After a quick breakfast and a cup of coffee, he retreated to his basement. His mind was racing with ideas for today’s batch. “Maybe a new IPA? Perhaps a coffee stout—the coffee was just so good this morning!” he thought to himself. “I’ve got these new Saaz hops I just bought…a crisp pilsner would be nice, too!” Jack’s mind raced with the potential for his new brew. Chattanoogans are relatively new to the brewery scene. In a town formerly dominated by plain, watery lagers, we are finally coming around to the crafty side of things and trying to make a name for ourselves as a city that appreciates great beer. Jack is a home brewer with a passion for great beer. He takes pride in crafting his brews, creating distinct flavors, and will never be caught with a “light” beer in his hand. The world of craft brewing is an art form. You can’t just press a button 8 • The Pulse • JUNE 19-25, 2014 • chattanoogapulse.com
and a delicious batch of beer appears before you. Much like a bistro-inspired chef, the craft brewer is dedicated. They take the time to create the best, quality product they can; no fillers, no adjuncts, just a pure imaginative beer. “The sweetest sound is overhearing a stranger next to you at a bar enjoying your beer for the first time without ever telling them you made it,” says professional craft brewer Alexander Rivers. Home brewing is a way for craft beer enthusiasts to create