Frothy Fun: Dunedin Brewery Celebrates 12th Anniversary

DUNEDIN - In a dozen years, the Dunedin Brewery has made a name for itself as one of only three microbrewery producer-distributors in the state. It is also a major attraction in the city's downtown entertainment district.

From noon on Saturday, July 12, and on into the night, the brewery and its Snug Pub will celebrate a dozen years "of frothy fun," with a concert featuring the Clearwater-based rock trio Full Fledged Unit and other anniversary enjoyment, said Travis Kruger, brewery manager.

Dunedin Brewery, at 937 Douglas Ave., just north of Main Street, still blends its brews, from grain to glass, the old-fashioned way, Kruger said. The brewery crew does not use computers to mix blends, he said.

Using these traditional methods the brewery and its large vats turn out nine ales year round, along with several seasonal offerings.

Microbrewed ale is growing in popularity as people look for something different to drink, Kruger, a former independent filmmaker turned brew master, declared.

This rising demand comes at a time when the price of key beer-making ingredients hops, wheat and grain, along with that of other agricultural commodities, are skyrocketing, Kruger said. The Dunedin Brewery tries to keep its prices as low as possible and even have occasional specials.

"With the tough economy, people want to know they can still come down and enjoy a pint," he said.

One of the secrets in brewing a great beer is making sure ingredients and equipment are clean and fresh. This ensures the brewing beer does not become infected and end up tasting burned, bitter or otherwise bad, Kruger said.

Dunedin Brewery's specialty ales include Apricot Wheat, Razzbeery Ale, Celtic Gold Ale, Beach Tale Brown Ale and the malty Redhead amber ale. Seasonal ales are popular, such as well, including the Brewery's Summer Buzz, a Belgian-style beer brewed with Dunedin honey.

Of course, some distinctive brews are released as creative ideas pop into the brew crew's head or someone recommends a recipe.

About five years ago the Dunedin Brewery, owned by Kandi and Michael Bryant, moved to its current location on Douglas Avenue from a small production warehouse.

Over the last few years the Dunedin Brewery and the Snug Pub have become one of the downtown's signature attractions. It's not often that a city can boast of having its own brewery, Kruger said.

The pub has become a musical venue for regional and local bands. It also features open mic nights and drum circles.

On the first Sunday afternoon of each month, the Brewery holds a fundraiser for Dunedin Dog Rescue. Participants get a free pint, while their dogs, for a fee, get groomed.

The brewery also celebrates the city's Celtic heritage, occasionally hosting the local chapter of the New World Celts heritage group and producing a Highland Games Ale each year. The pub recently began opening at noon, Thursday through Sunday, and offering a pub-style lunch. On Tuesday and Wednesday the kitchen opens at 4 p.m. The brewery and pub are closed Monday. Dunedin Brewery Ales are available at 50 local pubs, with plans to expand their reach along with offering their brews in bottles.

More information about the Brewery's entertainment calendar is available at www.dunedinbrewery.com.