Brewer to Brewer: Lindsay Barr and Averie Swanson (Ep. 29)
Aug 31, 2023
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Lindsay Barr interviews Averie Swanson, a master cicerone and brewer of Keeping Together. They discuss collaborative brewing, the power of words, challenges of financing, their love for the Southwest, and their fascination with roadrunners.
Averie Swanson discusses the philosophy of saison beer and its versatility, embodying balance, texture, and drinkability.
Averie Swanson highlights the challenges involved in building her brewery and taproom, including real estate acquisition, financing, and learning different aspects of business development.
Deep dives
Avery Swanson's Journey in Brewing and Beer Making
Avery Swanson, founder and beer maker of Keeping Together, discusses her brewing journey starting in Chicago and her upcoming brewery and taproom in Santa Fe, New Mexico. She shares her choice to use the title 'beer maker' instead of 'brewmaster' due to the collaborative nature of brewing, particularly with yeast. Avery expresses her love for the philosophy of saison beer and its versatility, representing existentialism and embodying balance, texture, and drinkability. She also discusses the intentional naming of her beers, drawing inspiration from books and phrases to create mantras that prompt customers to engage with the brewery's concept. Lastly, Avery reflects on the process of building her brewery and taproom, highlighting the challenges involved in real estate acquisition, financing, and learning different aspects of business development.
The Spirit and Resilience of New Mexico
Avery Swanson dives into her decision to move and build her brewery in Santa Fe, New Mexico. She shares her love for the Southwest and the unique spirit she finds in New Mexico, which she describes as resistant, resilient, and requiring surrender to the elements and the land. Avery appreciates the expansive sky and the reminder that humans are a small part of the magnificent world. She also discusses the importance of acknowledging and honoring the diverse indigenous populations in the state. Avery reflects on the sense of community and collaboration in New Mexico and how it influences her brewing process.
Mentorship and Joy in the Brewing Industry
Avery Swanson shares the influence of Ron Extract, one of the managing partners at Jester King, as her mentor in the industry. She emphasizes his expertise and vast knowledge in brewing, distribution, and import, which helped shape her brewing skills and overall understanding of the industry. Avery expresses gratitude for Ron's mentorship and values the relationship they have built. As for what currently brings her joy, Avery finds solace and happiness in the outdoor activities and hikes available in the New Mexico landscapes, which she describes as therapeutic and awe-inspiring.
Closing Thoughts and Plugs
In closing, Avery Swanson invites listeners to learn more about Keeping Together on their website and her personal Instagram handle. She also mentions her newly launched podcast, 'Why This?' in collaboration with DraftLab Sensory Software. Avery encourages support for All About Beer, both on their website and through Patreon, to sustain independent beer media. Avery and Lindsey Barr mention their upcoming episode where Avery will be the host, engaging in a conversation with a guest of her choosing.
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