Calicraft Brewing Co., founded in 2012 in Walnut Creek, has been a trailblazer in the San Francisco Bay Area’s vibrant craft beer scene. With a focus on local ingredients and sustainable practices, Calicraft has made a name for itself by pushing the boundaries of traditional beer styles and creating innovative beer-wine hybrids.
In This Article
Key Points
- Calicraft Brewing Co. has played a pioneering role in the craft beer movement within the San Francisco Bay Area.
- The brewery takes a unique approach to brewing, focusing on local ingredients and sustainable practices.
- Calicraft’s innovative beer-wine hybrids and California Sparkling Ales have had a significant impact on the craft beer industry.
Exploring the Signature Brews of Calicraft Brewing Co.
West Coast IPA and Its Distinctive Use of Hops
Calicraft’s West Coast IPA is a standout brew, crafted with a blend of Amarillo, Centennial, Citra, and Necatron hops. These hop varieties contribute to the beer’s unique flavor profile, offering notes of sweet tangerine, grapefruit, pine, honeydew melon, and pineapple, balanced by a clean bitterness on the finish.
Innovative Beer-Wine Hybrids: Buzzerkeley and Rose Ale
Calicraft has garnered attention for its beer-wine hybrids, such as Buzzerkeley and Rose Ale. These unique creations incorporate Champagne yeast and wine yeast fermentation, resulting in complex flavor profiles. Buzzerkeley, in particular, features California Starthistle honey, adding a distinct sweetness to the brew.
California Sparkling Ales: A New Category
Calicraft’s California Sparkling Ales have redefined beer categories with their champagne-like effervescence and complexity. These brews draw inspiration from local ingredients and California’s winemaking heritage, creating a truly one-of-a-kind drinking experience.
The Craft Behind the Craft: Ingredients and Brewing Processes
Local Ingredients and Their Impact on Flavor
Calicraft places a strong emphasis on sourcing local ingredients, such as California Starthistle honey, which significantly influences the taste profiles of their beers. The brewery also prioritizes sustainable brewing practices, minimizing its environmental impact.
Advanced Brewing Techniques
Calicraft employs advanced brewing techniques, such as the use of Champagne yeast and wine yeast in beer production. These technical aspects contribute to the unique characteristics of their beer-wine hybrids and California Sparkling Ales.
Calicraft and the Community: Events and Collaborations
San Francisco Beer Week and Its Significance
Calicraft actively participates in San Francisco Beer Week, a celebration of the local craft beer community. The brewery has collaborated with other notable breweries, such as Heretic Brewing, to create special releases for this event.
Brewery Tours and Beer Tasting Experiences
Calicraft offers brewery tours and beer tasting experiences, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about the craft brewing process and sample their unique beers. These experiences help educate the public about the artistry and innovation behind Calicraft’s brews.
The Broader Impact of Calicraft Brewing Co.
Influence on the San Francisco Bay Area’s Craft Beer Scene
Calicraft has played a significant role in shaping the craft beer culture in the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond. The brewery’s commitment to local ingredients and sustainable brewing practices has inspired other breweries to follow suit.
Expansion and Availability
Since its humble beginnings in Walnut Creek, Calicraft has expanded its reach, with its beers now available through outlets like CraftShack. This growth has allowed more craft beer enthusiasts to experience Calicraft’s unique brews.
FAQ
What makes Calicraft’s West Coast IPA unique?
Calicraft’s West Coast IPA stands out due to its distinctive blend of Amarillo, Centennial, Citra, and Necatron hops, which create a complex flavor profile with notes of citrus, pine, and tropical fruits.
How does Calicraft incorporate sustainable practices in its brewing process?
Calicraft prioritizes sustainable brewing practices by sourcing local ingredients and implementing environmentally friendly processes to minimize its carbon footprint.
Can you explain the concept behind Calicraft’s beer-wine hybrids?
Calicraft’s beer-wine hybrids, such as Buzzerkeley and Rose Ale, combine traditional beer brewing techniques with the use of Champagne yeast and wine yeast fermentation, resulting in unique flavor profiles that bridge the gap between beer and wine.
What events does Calicraft participate in within the San Francisco Bay Area?
Calicraft actively participates in San Francisco Beer Week, collaborating with other local breweries and hosting special events to celebrate the craft beer community.
Where can I find Calicraft beers outside of the brewery?
Calicraft beers are available at various outlets, including CraftShack, which allows craft beer enthusiasts to enjoy their unique brews beyond the brewery’s taproom.
