Big craft beer fan? Breweries have been popping up all throughout New York over the last several years. The trend continues to grow. In fact, over 2018, six new Long Island breweries opened up taprooms. That brought the total of breweries and brew-pubs up to 35.
Back in 2012, there were less than ten! Throughout the entire state, there are twice as many as 2012 – with just under 420 breweries now. And, things are looking good fore new Long Island breweries. In fact, there are eight more breweries set to open taprooms this year.
So, if you’re feeling crafty this year – in terms of beer – check out these new breweries that have popped up in Long Island. One of the newest is SquareHead Brewing Company in Holbrook. This one was founded by Dave and Brad Jordan, father and son. Apparently, Dave is half Swedish, which led to the name of the brewery. It is a slang term for a Scandinavian. Their company is licensed as a New York State farm brewery. And, they’ve got some unique beers to try. One of these includes their Pistachio Pilsner.
Increasing Competition
Also, for 2019, there are several new breweries waiting on their permits so they can officially open. Some of these include: Eastern Front Brewing (in Mattituck), Secatogue Brewing (in West Islip), HopWins Brewery (in Bay Shore). And, over in Nasaau County, Long Beach Brewing and Flying Belgian Brewery are working on building a new taproom and brewery that they plan to share in Oceanside. It is set to open early on in the new year.
Some breweries changed and expanded over the last year to keep up with the market. For example, Garvies Point Craft Brewing (in Glen Cove) changed from a 3.5-barrel system up to a 10-barrel system. Additionally, Destination Unknown Beer Company (in Bay Shore) went similarly from 3 barrels to 10. Everyone is expanding with the competition of craft beer and the new Long Island breweries on the horizon.
It will be interesting to see which breweries stay strong in 2019 and which new ones do well in this competitive craft beer market. But… for consumers, the news is good! There are an array of breweries to tap into this season. Where will you start?
