What brewery has grown on you?

The breweries or beers that have grown on me all revolve around freshness. I tried Arrogant Bastard before I knew how important the date codes were and hated it. But after drinking it fresh, I see the appeal. Locally here in Dallas, I tried a Dankasouraus about a year ago and thought it was mediocre. Having it fresh makes all the difference.

 

Jester King

But they have also changed a lot since they first started.

 

I think I'm on the opposite end of this. I'm liking their beers less and less. Which makes me sad.
I am however enjoying the shit out of Ranger Creek at the moment.

 

My comment was more aimed at from day one with what they were making to turning into what they are now. It was a huge change - I was not all that optimistic at the beginning but they have definitely changed my perception since then.

 

8th Wonder's quality has come a long way since day 1.

 

Black Metal now is dumpster juice compared to English Ale yeast Black Metal.

 

In Texas alone, I'd say:

• Oasis - when I first had London Homesick, I was like "nope - another failure Texas startup brewery." Now I drink Meta Modern like crazy when I'm in town. Hell, even London Homesick is way better than it was when I first had it.
• No Label - I always thought these guys were super nice people with beer that didn't offend me but didn't amaze me. Now, they're consistently pumping out great products.
• Texian - Similar to Oasis, early on I just thought they were another Fort Bend, doomed to produce garbage. Lately that has been very far from the truth.

 

Texas Big Beer - love their marketing.

 

Yeah, I know what you meant. I just feel like they are producing beers that are good, not great. I liked it better when restraint wasn't in their vocabulary.

 

Texian definitely has gone in a different direction. Most of their new stuff that I have had has been good and I am looking forward to what they continue to put out.

 

I think they got bit by the Wild bug. Went there last summer for a beer bus tour and almost didn't get back on the bus. I wanted to stay there and try everything they had on tap. Still working on getting back over there for a weekend.

 

I need to make my way out there.

 

Brash.
first couple batches were overly bitter and thin.

 

It takes some time to get used to and learn your equipment. Similar situation with Whole Foods Post Oak; once they got their equipment dialed in, they starting brewing some GREAT beer.

 

Only if you like butter.

 

Real Ale in Blanco, TX has grown on me a lot in the past couple years.

The first time I had their beers it was a sampler and I found all the beers fairly so-so. Then I started seeing more and more styles being stocked in my local stores, and after sampling a few different ones, I've seen that they've not only got a lot of good stuff to offer, but have also upped their quality since going to a wider distribution. I'm hopeful that they'll keep their commitment to the craft, because I think they're pretty good.

I also wanted to give a shoutout to Deep Ellum Brewery, I didn't think much of them until I tried their IPAs and now I'm hooked.