Beer-lovers get ready to rejoice—Stable 12 Brewing Company, which has been hard at work renovating a former auto parts store, is almost ready to open their doors.
Locals may have noticed all the action going on across from the Municipal Services Building on Bridge Street over the past few months, but I had the opportunity to get a sneak peek of the brewery and chat with CEO Rick Wolf about Stable 12 Brewing Company.
Phoenixville Dish: How long have you been brewing and how did you get started?
Rick Wolf: I started brewing at home with my dad over Thanksgiving break during college in 2009. We were curious how beer was made and decided to try it out! Eventually, I invited two of my high school friends, Chris Carbutt (Stable 12 CFO/Assistant Brewer) and Tyler Fontaine (Stable 12 COO/Brewmaster) to join me for some brewing during the summer of 2010.
How have you made the progression from home brewer to opening a commercial brewery?
When the three of us started to brew, we began in my mom’s house, but quickly had to move our operation elsewhere because she did not like the smell. At the time, there was an empty barn on our property that had a kitchen attached to it, so we decided to start brewing in there. As we continued to brew for fun, we realized that we could live the American dream and have our own business.
We loved what we were doing, and with family and friends who supported us, we started to make that dream come true. The empty barn we had started to use was always called the “12 stall barn,” and as we began to grow and think about a possible brewery name, Stable 12 seemed to fit our story perfectly.
Before making the ultimate decision to move into commercial brewing, we visited Free Will Brewing Company to help with various aspects of commercial brewing. In addition to that, we have utilized Free Will Brewmaster, John Stemler, as a consultant. Once we made the decision to look for a location, and we found that location, we enlisted the help of family and friends, who are professional contractors, to help make our dream possible. Without the very generous donations of time on nights and weekends, none of this would have been possible.
What is it about Phoenixville that drew you to the area?
We looked at a lot of different locations for several years before we found our home in Phoenixville. Phoenixville is up-and-coming and has tons of potential. We really want to be a part of that growth because we think it is going to be a good fit and a perfect location for our own growing company.
What type of experience can we expect at the Stable 12 tasting room?
The taproom, as well as the entire company, has a very laidback atmosphere and will be a great place to just hang out with good company. Our staff is not only knowledgeable but also fun, which will make the experience that much better.
What kinds of beers can we expect at Stable 12 Brewing Company?
An IPA, Double IPA, Pale Ale, Wheat, Stout and Imperial Stout are just a couple of the beers we will be starting out with. We’ll have a little something for every kind of beer lover.
How about food?
We will be offering shared plates and finger foods in-house, including a meat and cheese plate which will pair well with our beers. Additionally, we will allow customers to order delivery or bring their own food into the taproom.
Do you have plans for distribution of your beers?
To start, we are only serving our beer in the taproom on-site, and potentially in some locally owned restaurants in Phoenixville. We are choosing not to sign with a distributor until we are positive we could meet the market demands that are often associated with wider distribution.
So, the big question: When can we expect Stable 12 Brewing Company to open its doors?
Early spring! More specifically, as soon as we get the go-ahead from the state, since we already have federal approval!
Stay tuned to Phoenixville Dish for news about the official grand opening!
Find Stable 12 Brewing Company at 368 Bridge St. in Phoenixville.
Photos: Stable 12 Brewing Company
