In the mid-1970s, Americans began to renew their fascination with
smaller, independent breweries, with many even brewing their own batches
of beer. This portion of the exhibit will discuss the rise of the new wave of
small independent microbreweries, brewpubs, and home brewers, all are
now providing alternatives to the growing trend towards mass-produced
beers sold by the millions of barrels by the national brewers.
Home brewing is a rapidly growing hobby that attracts enthusiasts across the
United States and the world. One of the attractions is a fresh brew that can
be adjusted to fit personal tastes, with batches brewed at the 20 gallon lot
size or smaller.
In closely related phenomena, the micro-brewing revolution coincides
with alternatives to the growing trend against mass-produced products.
Microbreweries produce in a much smaller volume than the commercial
breweries, but their appeal extends beyond the "hand-made flavor." Small
brewers can offer unique products, at premium prices, that beer-aficionados
are more than willing to pay. Microbreweries are now being established all
around the world, including in New Zealand and Japan.
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