Photo by Melissa Askew on Unsplash
Craft brewing is a growing industry in the state of Kansas, with a number of small, independent breweries producing a wide range of unique and interesting beers. This trend is part of a broader movement towards craft brewing that is taking place all over the United States, as more and more people are looking for alternatives to mass-produced lagers and ales.
The history of craft brewing in Kansas dates back to the 1980s, when the state’s first craft brewery, Free State Brewing Company, was founded in Lawrence. Since then, the craft brewing industry in Kansas has grown steadily, with many new breweries opening up in cities and towns across the state.
Today, Kansas is home to a thriving craft brewing scene, with over 50 breweries producing a wide range of beers. These breweries use locally-sourced ingredients and traditional brewing techniques to create unique and flavorful beers that are enjoyed by beer enthusiasts all over the state.
One of the key reasons for the growth of craft brewing in Kansas is the state’s rich agricultural heritage. Kansas is known for its fertile soil and abundant water supply, which make it an ideal place to grow the grains and hops that are used in the brewing process. Many of the state’s craft breweries are located in rural areas, and they often source their ingredients from local farmers and growers.
Another factor that has contributed to the growth of craft brewing in Kansas is the state’s strong sense of community. Many of the state’s craft breweries are small, independently-owned businesses that are closely tied to their local communities. They often host events and fundraisers, and they are active members of their local Chambers of Commerce and other community organizations.
In conclusion, the craft brewing industry in Kansas is a growing and vibrant part of the state’s economy. With its rich agricultural heritage and strong sense of community, Kansas is an ideal place for small, independent breweries to thrive, and the state’s craft brewers are producing a wide range of unique and delicious beers that are enjoyed by beer enthusiasts all over the country.