I recently took my first Southern Oregon Brewing tour and had a great time. Justin, my salesman, invited me to come check out the brewery on what ended up being a private tour since they’re normally closed on Mondays (my day off), but he opened it up for me anyway. The first thing I noticed was how clean it was – sparkling clean. 

Owner Dr. Tom Hammond, a local anesthesiologist, obviously brought his hospital-clean mentality to his brewery. So I sat at the tasting room bar as Justin proceeded to taste me on the line up, which ended up being beneficial, as a couple of the brews tasted were different than I remembered the first time I tried them. 

He also showed me some pictures of what would become (and now is) the new labels. Great move, too. The newest bottled brew is the “Nice Rack IPA,” a great sessionable brew. The porter is now, “Pin-Up Porter” and there’s also the “Gold Digger,” which is the golden ale at Southern Oregon Brewing. There is still the “Woodshed Red” and the Pale, as well. 

As I was tasting and talking beer with Justin, the atmosphere was enhanced by two little ones eating at one of the tables nearby, who were joined by their father, Scott, the head brewer. Scott then gave me a tour of the brewery, showed me the ropes, talked me through the brewing process, tasted some raw dark malts and graciously allowed me to ask him 1,001 questions. 

A short time later, Tom showed up and hung out for a bit and we had some more brews (I enjoyed another IPA). What a great time. The S.O.B. crew was inviting, friendly and gracious.  Exactly what craft brewing should be, eh?

Thanks again Justin, Tom and Scott!