In West Michigan, craft beer is finding new ways to take center stage with a focus on hyper-local ingredients, sustainable brewing practices, and tech-infused processes. Breweries forge direct ties with local growers, embracing unique flavors that define regional terroir. Sustainability is a guiding principle, influencing eco-friendly brewing methods and packaging choices. Technology plays a pivotal role, optimizing efficiency and quality through advanced equipment and data analytics. Diverse collaborations bring together artists, chefs, and businesses, creating boundary-pushing brews and immersive experiences. Innovative flavor profiles, interactive elements, and a rise in non-alcoholic options characterize the dynamic landscape of craft beer, signaling a future where breweries craft not just beers but captivating journeys. Here are just a few of the breweries that are representing West Michigan well.
Brewery Nyx: The Gluten-Free Gourmet
In the heart of Grand Rapids, Brewery Nyx shines as Michigan’s pioneer in gluten-free brewing. Breaking the mold, it stands as the state’s first dedicated gluten-free brewery offering a diverse range from IPAs to lagers and barrel-aged stouts. Nyx aims to redefine the beer experience, infusing joy and camaraderie by bringing those with Celiac Disease or gluten sensitivities back to the table . With a commitment to taste and quality ingredients using rice, millet and other alternative grist, Nyx keeps their beers free of sorghum, malt and artificial additives. Brewery Nyx beckons beer enthusiasts of all kinds to savor a flavorful and inclusive journey in the world of craft brewing.
Brewery Vivant: LEEDing the way to a Sustainable Future
Brewery Vivant, housed in a refurbished historic funeral home, proudly claims the title of the world’s first LEED-certified microbrewery. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the world’s most widely used green building rating system. LEED certification provides a framework for healthy, highly efficient, and cost-saving green buildings. Beyond its unique setting, Vivant is a celebration of the good life, blending rustic European-inspired beers with outstanding locally sourced dishes from its kitchen. Inspired by a journey to Belgian farmhouse breweries, it seamlessly marries tradition with diverse European styles, embodying the essence of “bon vivant” – the good life.
Speciation Artisan Ales: The Wild Fermenters
Speciation Artisan Ales introduces an evolutionary approach to brewing. Inspired by nature’s diversity, their lineup of beer, cider, seltzer, and wine reflects the drifting of species found in the wild. Speciation embraces science, patience, and the art of fermentation, guiding each release with care. This family-owned brewery, founded by Mitch and Whitney Ermatinger in 2016, offers a unique tasting experience. Located behind the Studio Z textiles Building, their alley-set taproom invites patrons to explore the natural variations in every sip, bridging the past and the future of craft brewing. Contained in a large 30-barrel and 50-barrel wooden foeder (approximately 1,000 gallons and 1,500 gallons, respectively) are their two distinct raw house cultures used for the consistent base of their funky farmhouse ales and their sour/golden ales. It’s these two proprietary cultures that thread Speciation’s beers with its signature, underlying flavor profile foundation.
Neil Davey is a resident of Marshall, MI and is the Regional Account Specialist of Southern Michigan for Taste the Local Difference. This Hoosier-turned-Michigander can often be found writing his next book, fooling around in the garden, experimenting with his weekly CSA produce, or planning his next hiking trip somewhere in the pleasant peninsula.