New Belgium Brewing

History of New Belgium Brewing

Founded in 1991 by Jeff Lebesch and Kim Jordan, New Belgium Brewing began as a small craft brewery in Fort Collins, Colorado. The brewery's inception was inspired by a bike trip through Belgium, where Jeff fell in love with Belgian-style beers. Today, New Belgium is one of the largest craft breweries in the United States, renowned for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and community. The brewery started with a modest 50 barrels, but through dedication and innovation, it has grown to produce over 1 million barrels annually.

Core Beer Offerings

New Belgium Brewing is famous for a variety of flagship beers that appeal to a wide range of palates. Below is a list of some of their most popular offerings:

• Fat Tire Amber Ale: This iconic amber ale is known for its balanced flavor of toasty malt and hoppy bitterness.
• Voodoo Ranger IPA: A bold and hoppy IPA, Voodoo Ranger has gained a massive following for its tropical fruit and pine flavors.
• Belgian Style Witbier: This refreshing witbier boasts a light, citrusy profile, with hints of coriander and orange peel.
• La Folie Sour Brown Ale: A complex and tart brown ale, La Folie is aged in oak barrels and has a unique flavor profile that combines sweet and sour notes.

Sustainability Initiatives

New Belgium Brewing is committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The brewery has implemented a variety of initiatives aimed at reducing its carbon footprint and promoting eco-friendly practices. These efforts include:

• Using renewable energy sources, including wind and solar power, to run brewery operations.
• Implementing water conservation practices that reduce water usage by over 30%.
• Utilizing a zero-waste philosophy, diverting over 99% of waste from landfills.
• Investing in sustainable packaging, such as using recycled materials for labels and bottles.

Community Engagement

New Belgium Brewing is deeply rooted in its community and actively engages with local organizations. The brewery hosts various events and initiatives that foster community spirit. One notable program is the “Fallen Firefighter Fund” which supports families of firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Additionally, New Belgium often collaborates with local non-profits for fundraising events, showcasing their commitment to giving back to Fort Collins and beyond.

Employee Ownership

In 2013, New Belgium Brewing transitioned to an employee-owned company through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). This shift allows employees to have a stake in the brewery's success, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. With this model, employees are encouraged to contribute ideas and suggestions, resulting in a more engaged and motivated workforce. This unique approach has helped New Belgium maintain high levels of employee satisfaction and retention.

Innovative Brewing Techniques

New Belgium Brewing is known for its innovative brewing techniques that set it apart from other craft breweries. They are pioneers in barrel-aging and sour beer production, utilizing a variety of barrels to impart unique flavors into their beers. The brewery's mixed fermentation process combines wild yeast and bacteria, resulting in complex and flavorful brews. Their experimental beer series, known as “Lips of Faith,” showcases seasonal and limited-edition beers that push the boundaries of traditional brewing.

Chart: New Belgium's Beer Styles

The following chart illustrates the variety of beer styles produced by New Belgium Brewing, highlighting their diverse offerings:

Conclusion: Why Choose New Belgium Brewing?

New Belgium Brewing stands out in the craft beer landscape for its dedication to quality, sustainability, and community engagement. With a diverse range of flavors and styles, there is something for everyone in their lineup. Whether you're sipping on a Fat Tire after a long day or exploring one of their innovative sour ales, you can feel good knowing that your choice supports a company that prioritizes environmental responsibility and employee ownership. As New Belgium continues to grow, it remains committed to its roots, ensuring that every beer reflects its passion for craftsmanship and community.