Ever smelled the intoxicating aroma of hops and barley? SweetWater Brewing Company is where that magic happens. Right here in Atlanta Georgia.
SweetWater Brewing Company isn’t just a brewery. It’s a piece of Atlanta’s history. Founded in 1997 by Freddy Bensch and Kevin McNerney two college roommates who shared a passion for brewing. Their first keg was sold on February 21 1997. SweetWater ESB and Blue were the first beers to flow.
Their initial location was off Interstate 20 on Fulton Industrial Boulevard. But SweetWater’s success led them to a larger 25000 square-foot facility in Armour Circle Industrial Park on Ottley Drive. This is where you stand now.
The name SweetWater? Inspired by a kayaking trip down Sweetwater Creek. This tribute is reflected in their motto “Don’t Float the Mainstream”. It’s a philosophy that resonates throughout their craft. Their commitment to sustainability is also noteworthy. They recycle millions of pounds of spent grain hops and yeast annually. This supports local farmers and reduces their environmental footprint.
SweetWater’s popularity soared. They hosted the World Beer Cup in 1999. They won Small Brewery of the Year at the Great American Beer Festival in 2002. SweetWater 420 Extra Pale Ale became a flagship beer. This brew is named after its first brewing date April 20th. Their success led to expansion. In 2012 SweetWater completed a huge project. This increased their annual capacity from 100000 to 500000 barrels. Their beers like 420 Extra Pale Ale Blue Georgia Brown IPA and many more won numerous awards. This secured SweetWater’s place as a leading craft brewery.
SweetWater’s story isn’t just about beer. It’s about community. Their annual SweetWater 420 Fest is a beloved Atlanta event. It celebrates music art and of course their famous brews. The festival highlights sustainability efforts too.
SweetWater’s journey is a testament to hard work innovation and a dedication to quality. From humble beginnings to becoming a major player in the craft beer scene. This brewery continues to “not float the mainstream”. This exciting journey continues to unfold right here in Atlanta. Enjoy the taste of SweetWater. A taste of Atlanta’s brewing legacy.