Mike McQuery and Half Pint Brewing Company on Waseca: Small Town, Big Stories - Crafting Beer and Community
Description
As the frost sets in and hop vines hunker down for a Minnesota winter, Mike McQuery from Half Pint Brewing Company joins us to share the unexpected joys and jolts of hop farming in a climate that's less than forgiving. From the meticulous post-harvest rituals to outsmarting Downey Mildew, Mike's tale is woven with a rich tapestry of dedication and educational fervor. His hops may not be the star ingredient in his brews, but they're certainly a main attraction for curious visitors eager to learn about the lifecycle of these essential beer components.
Transitioning from West Coast life to the heartland, one couple's leap into the unknown blossoms into a farm brewery that's as much about family as it is about fermentation. We'll toast to the beer named in honor of a cherished father and delve into the couple's blend of passion and practicality that fuels their journey in Minnesota's burgeoning beer culture. Their story is a testament to the belief that sometimes, the best way to grow roots is to plant them in entirely new soil.
Wrapping up, we celebrate the community spirit that bubbles over in Minnesota's craft beer scene. There's a special kind of magic that happens when a local brewery and a pizza farm join forces, carving out a niche in the tapestry of rural enterprise. We'll explore the strategies that have allowed for steady growth without losing that all-important personal touch, proving that sometimes, the most flavorful journeys begin with a simple shift from the daily grind to the grind of malt and hops. Join us for an episode that's brimming with the essence of community, collaboration, and the craft of beer making.