One Man's Ceiling, Is Another Man's Floor

 Grain Theory Brewery Craft beer has been taking the world by storm, and Texas is no exception. With over 300 breweries scattered throughout the state, it takes a lot to stand out in the crowd. However, Grain Theory Brewery in Abilene, Texas has managed to do just that. Not only do they produce quality beer, but they also have a unique management story that has contributed to their success. In this post, we'll take a closer look at Grain Theory Brewery and their journey on the Road to Abilene. Grain Theory Brewery was founded in 2016 by three friends - David Kasselman, Brandon Hays, and John Laprarie. The trio had a passion for craft beer and wanted to create something special in their hometown of Abilene. They started small, brewing beer in a garage and selling it at local events. As their popularity grew, they decided to take the next step and open a brewery. However, opening a brewery is no easy feat. It requires a significant investment of time, money, and resources. The three ...

  Nestled in the charming town of Columbus, Texas lies a hidden gem for beer enthusiasts - Houndsong Brewery. Founded in 2017 by a group of friends with a passion for brewing, Houndsong Brewery has quickly become a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. The brewery boasts a spacious taproom with a rustic ambiance that perfectly complements their carefully crafted beers. The taproom's walls are adorned with local artwork and the brewery's logo, adding to the overall charm of the establishment. Houndsong Brewery takes pride in using only the finest ingredients, sourcing their hops and grains from local farmers whenever possible. This commitment to quality is evident in every sip of their beer. From their flagship IPA, "Houndsong Howl," to their seasonal offerings like the "Pumpkin Patch Ale," each beer is crafted with care and attention to detail. One of the unique features of Houndsong Brewery is their dog-friendly policy. The owners are avid dog ...

  (Photo credit Waco Tribune) Back in 2011, I discovered Balcones whiskey (or whisky as Balcones called it).  I was in Texas, Balcones was a Texas distillery.  The whole concept of a distillery making whiskey in Texas was new to me; it was an exciting enterprise, and an exciting time.  The frontman for Balcones was its colorful founder, Chip Tate.  Tate was a transplanted Texan, as were so many, but he had embraced the maverick culture, of which, Texans are so proud.  Tate was from Virginia, with detours to Germany, and Indiana.  Tate’s father was a nuclear engineer and his mother a nurse.  Tate went to college at William and Mary.  At William and Mary, Tate studied physics and philosophy.  While in Richmond, VA, Tate turned his homebrewing hobby into a passion.  But after graduation, Tate went to the cubicle and worked several white collar jobs, often following his wife, a professor, to her different assignments.  That’s how T...