Meet Adam, Our Master Brewer…
At Savannah River Brewing Co., we're privileged to have Adam steering our brewing endeavors—a journey that began in the realms of homebrewing back in 2009 and has since blossomed into a passion that defines the essence of our craft offerings. Adam's venture into brewing was fueled not just by a love for beer but by a desire to pivot from his previous career as an HVAC Distro Manager to something that sparked a genuine passion. Becoming the president of the Augusta Homebrewers Association and garnering awards in competitions solidified his transition from hobbyist to professional, inspired by pioneers like Ken Grossman of Sierra Nevada, who exemplified the pursuit of excellence in craft beer.
Brewing Roots and Inspirations
Adam's brewing career is marked by a significant moment when he clinched the National Club Only Homebrew Competition, a victory that underscored his natural talent and deep understanding of beer crafting. His first brewing experiment—a porter that employed partial steep with dry malt extract—was an ambitious endeavor that paid off, laying the foundation for his brewing philosophy: staying true to his roots while embracing the adventurous spirit of hoppy beers.
Philosophy and Approach
Adam is renowned for his love of hoppy beers, drawn to their "fruity wonderfulness" and the endless possibilities they present for innovation and creativity. His brewing philosophy hinges on remaining authentic and taking risks, ensuring each beer is a testament to his dedication and craft. Balancing work with personal time, Adam believes in seeking inspiration beyond the brewery, which helps him stay innovative and tackle the technical challenges of brewing, from efficiency to tank cleaning.
Happy to Help
Among Adam's proudest moments as a brewmaster is the ability to scale recipes into something grander, a testament to his skill and creativity. Notably, his "Happy to Help" beer, a collaboration with childhood friends, including the renowned artist Leonard “Porkchop” Zimmerman, highlights his commitment to community and giving back, showcasing the profound impact of craft beer beyond the brewery.
Personal Life and Future Visions
Outside the brewery, Adam finds joy in disc golf, biking, and spending time with his daughter, Eva. His vision for the future of craft beer is cautiously optimistic, anticipating a revival of old-world styles amidst the industry's transformative era. To those who enjoy Savannah River Brewing Co.'s beers, Adam is amazed and grateful for the diverse community their brews bring together.
Looking ahead, Adam is excited about upcoming projects, particularly a Passionfruit, Orange, and Guava Double IPA, and, like many brewers, holds a special fondness for the Oktoberfest season. His journey from a homebrew enthusiast to the heart of Savannah River Brewing Co.'s brewing operations exemplifies passion, innovation, and community—values that are at the core of every brew we craft.