One of the Midwest’s most cherished and respected breweries finally makes its way to Ohio this month with the arrival of Short’s Brewing Company.
Brewer Joe Short had an idea: create a brewery in his namesake in his home state of Michigan. He already had the location picked out: a 120-year-old hardware store in Bellaire. How hard could it be, right? What began as a $30,000 venture turned into 18 months and $180,000 of construction. But in the late spring of 2004, Short’s Brewing Company tapped its first keg.
As with most breweries, things started off slow, then blossomed over the next few years. In January 2008, Short’s purchased an old manufacturing building in Elk Rapids, Mich. In a year’s time, he was able to get the location up and running. Amazingly, when the first batch of beer was shipped two months later, every bottle was labeled by hand.
This month, the brewery celebrates its 12th year with a launch in both Indiana and Ohio and continues to take the craft beer industry by storm, thanks to Short’s ever-changing creativity in crafting some truly unique liquids.
Look out for these intoxicating selections when Short’s Brewing Company hits both stores and bars throughout the state.
Huma Lupa Licious
Brewed with five different hop varietals, this best-selling IPA packs quite the bitter wallop, coming in at an aggressive 96 on the international bitterness unit. Citrus and resin galore delight in this impressive flagship.
Bellaire Brown
Initially crafted to appeal to coffee drinkers and those seeking something on the darker side, Bellaire Brown is an original take on the often-overlooked style. Nuttiness and coffee flavors abound in this fresh take on the familiar.
Soft Parade
Bursting with pureed strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries, this fruit rye ale is a clear fan favorite and a must find.
ControversiALE
This seasonal India pale ale is an enticing showcase for the beloved Simcoe hop. Earthy, citrus flavors fill both the aroma and mouthfeel on this incredibly easy drinker.
A few other Short’s brews will be available in the state throughout the year, including a line of ciders under the name Starcut Ciders. Check your local Acme and Fishers Foods, as well as your finer craft beer stops, such as Mustard Seed, Lizardville and 101 Bottles of Beer on the Wall for which Short’s they have to offer. And don’t forget to ask your favorite watering hole to tap your new favorite beer.