So I got word today that there is a brewery in the works (property secured) in Hampton (Franklin County), about 30 minutes south of Mason City. Add that to Existing Breweries in Northwood (Worth), Reinbeck (Blackhawk), Waverly (Bremer) and elsewhere, and breweries in planning in Mason City (Cerro Gordo), Osage (Mitchell), Marshalltown (Marshall), Clear Lake (Cerro Gordo) and probably some more I don't know about, ALL IN NORTH IOWA. I've also heard about Perry and Southeast Polk County area breweries. Iowa has proved small town breweries can succeed (see above, and others like CIB, Toppling Goliath, Appanoose Rapids), but could we really be moving towards a nice even distribution through the whole state?
Live in Reinbeck, life long family friends with one of the owners of the Brewery. Love being able to go downtown and have a good beer. I hope every community gets to have one.
mdwalsh, do you have any more info on the brewery in Hampton or Perry? I am coming up with nothing when trying to search for info. I have sent emails to both chambers. Thank You, Steve
Steve, Hampton will be called Rustic Brewing and is planning to open January 2nd or so. That is all I know. Perry was just a rumor from someone else.
I'm in Hampton for the holidays. I think Rustic Brew (Brewery?) will take over its location after the new year, as the current tenant is still open and having a final sale until then. Its alcohol license was approved in December.
I added Rustic Brew to the Beer Advocate Search engine... Working on adding the beers. Currently they brew 3 styles on site: Slobber Knocker Oatmeal Stout, Old Man River Citrus Wheat, and the Wood Cellar Blonde Ale. Located at 117 1st St NW, Hampton Cheers!
The beers have been added and reviewed. I've worked up a thirst; on my way to Rustic Brew! ;-) Cheers!
