USA, KY: Henderson Brewing Co. granted license to operate as microbrewery

While one established local business - Farmer and Frenchman winery - struggles to keep its liquor license, another unique and alcohol-based business is celebrating obtaining their Kentucky permit to brew beer, The Gleaner reported on April 27.

The Kentucky Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control this week granted Henderson Brewing Co., LLC its license to operate as a microbrewery.

According to a news release from Henderson Brewing Company, "The approval signifies the first time a licensed brewery has resided in Henderson in over 80 years. A microbrewery license enables Henderson Brewing Co. to begin brewing beer after it passes some final inspections at the local level."

And to brew that beer, HBC's founders now have more than a piece of paper.

A social media post on Friday afternoon showed bags of grain being piled up in the brewroom of the Henderson Brewing Company on Second Street in Henderson.

"Our first grain shipment arrived, and Doug is like a kid in a candy store! Looks like we'll need to build more shelves."

"We felt it was very important to obtain our microbrewery license in advance of our retail license so that we can get a head start on the brewing process," said Head Brewer Doug Laramie.

"It will enable us to start brewing now, while we are continuing to build out our taproom, and have plenty of beer to offer our guests when we open."

The brewery has also applied for a retail license that will allow them to offer their beer directly to visitors. They are hopeful it will be granted upon completion of their taproom
construction.

"While a firm opening date for the taproom at 737 Second St. has yet to be announced, gaining approval as a microbrewery will make it possible to open as much as a month earlier than if the brewery waited for construction to be completed before applying for both the microbrewery and retail license," said HBC's press release about their state license being granted.

Henderson Brewing Co., LLC consists of Henderson residents David Osborn, Rob Toerne, Austin Vowels, Sean Wilder, and Laramie.

Laramie is a multiple medal winner in the home brewing category at the Kentucky State Fair.

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