The total number of U.S. breweries reached a record level in 2015, according to a year-end review from the Brewers Association—the not-for-profit trade association dedicated to small and independent American brewers. As of the end of November, there are now 4,144 breweries in the country, topping the historic high of 4,131 breweries in 1873.

“This is a remarkable achievement, and it’s just the beginning,” said Bart Watson, chief economist, Brewers Association. “Beer has always been a hallmark of this country and it is even more apparent today as America’s beer culture continues to expand.”

“Craft breweries are a part of their communities, operating in neighborhoods and towns, returning us to a localized beer culture,” added Watson. “There are still thousands of towns currently without a brewery—but with populations potentially large enough to support one. With beer lovers continuing to desire more full-flavored, innovative options from small and independent local breweries, ample opportunities exist for well-differentiated, high-quality entrants in the marketplace.”

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Of note in 2015 (Brewers Association): •  Brewery openings now exceed two a day. •  Fifteen states are now home to more than 100 breweries: California, Washington, Colorado, Oregon, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Texas, Ohio, Florida, Virginia, North Carolina, Wisconsin & Indiana. •  IPA remained the top style sold by independent craft brewers, and continues to grow faster than the overall craft category. •  Data shows that “locally made” is important to over half of craft beer buyers. •  Similarly, knowing that the beer is made by a small and independent brewery is important to a majority of craft drinkers in their purchase decision.

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Gordon Street Tavern’s Brewpub honored by Food & Wine Magazine

Congratulation to owner Henry Dillmann and chef/brewer Jay Peek of Gordon Street Tavern in Alvin for being honored by Food & Wine Magazine in their "50 Amazing Nanobreweries in 50 States."

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UPCOMING Texas Craft Beer Festivals

2015 Texas Winter Beer Fest Dec. 4-5, 2015 Town Green Park The Woodlands, TX

Craft Brew Races Dec. 5, 2015 Travis County Expo Center Austin, Texas

Yaga’s Chili Quest & Beer Fest Jan. 15-16, 2016 Strand District • Galveston

Wild West Brew Fest April 23, 2016 Katy Mills Mall Katy, TX

Best Little Brew Fest in Texas June 18, 2016 Old Town Lewisville, TX