Crafting a Movement: An Update

A few months ago, in the midst of the first Craft Brewery Pilgrimage, I posted an description of how the pilgrimage, and an incredibly influential blog, were bringing attention to craft brewing in Southern California.

The story did not end there.

Not only have mainstream media understanding our community in new ways; the marketplace has begun responding to our message as well.  The examples are springing up throughout Southern California.

Congregation Ale Houses have already been established in Long Beach and Azusa, and another is under construction in Pasadena.  I believe in meticulous research, and have visited both the Long Beach and Azusa establishments.  You can see for yourself that Congregation Ale recognizes the historic connection between monastic life and brewing good beer.

Even clearer is the Monkish Brewing Company which is being created in Torrance.  Henry Nguyen will soon be producing excellent craft beer; I look forward to visiting Monkish on next year’s Craft Brewery Pilgrimage.

The facts speak for themselves: the seeds sown by the Craft Brewery Pilgrimage and my posts about the Benedictine influences on brewing beer are bearing fruit!  We are not merely visiting craft breweries to drink great beer.  We are building a movement!

There is still time for you to become part of the movement.  If you are in Southern California, you can:

Become my friend on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, or email me at [email protected].

Even if you did not join the pilgrimage this year, you can visit fine craft breweries near you and let me know which places I should be sure to visit next year.  I would appreciate your help as I research the locations for next year.

There are excellent craft brewers following the tradition of Benedictine brewing around the world.  Sample your local brews, and let me know which one I might need to come sample myself.

[Image by compujeramey]