Ale Street News Online

ASN: Do you think the craft brewing’s double digit growth over the past three years is sustainable?

Doyle: Yes I do. The recent price shock may take a toll on growth this year, but yes over time it is sustainable.

ASN:Where do you think America’s adventurous brewers will head next recipe-wise?

Doyle: I think it will be all over the board. Not one direction at all.

ASN: What do you see as the biggest challenges facing craft brewing right now?

Doyle: One, access to raw materials. Two, the competition from the large brewers in the craft beer category.

ASN: I thought it ironic that the ‘Large Brewing Co.’ Winner at the World Beer Cup was Blue Moon — not a real brewery, but made by Molson/Coors.

Doyle: Ironic is a good way to describe it. A lot of people may think they’re buying a local or regional product when they’re not. It’s all about educating the consumer.

ASN: Your predecessor as board chairman Steve Hindy (Brooklyn Brewery), has been elected to the board of the Beer Institute. This reminds me of the point you made in your keynote speech that although craft brewing is growing up and can sit down with the ‘big boys’ it’s still treated a bit like a kid when the adults want to talk.

Doyle: Things are obviously changing. Steve’s appointment is quite noteworthy — he’s the perfect guy to do it. The point I was trying to make is that it’s important to make ourselves heard with legislators. Small brewers have the power to be a formidable political force.

ASN: There is now a Small Brewers Caucus in DC. What impressed you most about the recent legislative session there.

Doyle: There are 10-15 politicians involved in the caucus. But what was amazing was the several hundred staffers that showed up to meet with us (and drink our beer!).

ASN: How much do you think the new craft brew drinkers will bear for the cost of a 6-pack?

Doyle: It depends how good the beer is in the 6-pack. I think the $10 price point will be a resistance point.

ASN: Where do you see craft brew in five years?

Doyle: Everywhere, especially on-premise.

ASN:What do you like best about being in this industry?

Doyle: The people I work with. My colleagues in the industry. Watching our customers enjoy our beer.