Our very own Captain Keith was recently the subject of The Beer Connoisseur’s Innovator Series, which has featured such craft beer giants as Garrett Oliver and Greg Koch. Keith shared some of the wisdom he’s gained from more than 20 years in the craft beer game, as well as a few observations about his journey within the craft brew industry. It’s a great article that every Beerknurd should read.
Here are just a few of our favorite quotes to help whet your appetite and, hopefully, start a discussion.
On what he loves most about the beer industry: “Beer lends itself to camaraderie and community.”
On the future of craft beer: “We’re enjoying what we all wanted to happen — widely available fantastic beer, anywhere. There will be some fallout, but we should all work hard to protect those who deserve it.”
On whether craft beer can sustain its current rate of growth: “Customers aren’t going to go backward with their taste buds, no more than those who find real food will go back to fast food.”
On the recent acquisition craze and stigma of “selling out”: “I can’t lay judgment on someone who’s busted their ass for 25 years to build a brand and expand if they sell. I like knowing that their families won’t have to work their asses off for the rest of their lives.”
On being a “Beer Guru” and being a part of the craft beer groundswell: “It’s exciting to be in an industry where there’s always something to learn.”
Though Keith prefers intimate conversation over the spotlight, being the focus of this article gives readers a peek into what has made him so successful in his many beer-focused ventures. It’s evident that humility and an honest-to-god true love for craft beer — and all the people within its embrace — are what fuel Keith.
For more fantastic insight from Captain Keith, including how he and Beerknurds like you helped bring great beer to Tennessee and the Carolinas, grab a brew and please give the story a read.
Cheers to the beer lovers at The Beer Connoisseur for the article and helping tell the tales of craft beer!
