Brewer Spotlight: The Friendly Fermenter

Spread the love
Shawn and his family.

Brewer: Shawn Gatesman

How long have you operated the brewery? Since opening it on 9/22/17. But I guess you could say since starting an actual plan for the brewery in March 2015.

How did you get involved in brewing? I am the founder, owner, brewer, etc. so it started with a dream in my head and it evolved from there.

What’s something people don’t know about your brewery? We are not only a nanobrewery, but a very small nanobrewery – making beer on a 1bbl system. This gives me the ability to brew much like I did as a homebrewer. I have the freedom to use what ingredients I want, and I can do a lot of different beers (over 90 now and counting). This, along with the beer being so fresh, makes for some nice products. We are also a specialty brew shop. We allow groups to make their own homebrew with us (brew on site) and we sell brewing ingredients and supplies.

What’s your favorite food and beer combo? A balanced New England IPA and a burger! (I freaking love burgers…) From my tap list, I’d recommend F-Bomb or Zombie Kisses.

Tell us about your pets: Being from the veterinary industry, many pets have “found” our family along the way. We currently have 2 dogs and 3 cats, all rescues.

What is your favorite thing to do in the Shenandoah Valley? I live here, so lots of things! But I am an outdoor kind of guy, so hiking and paddling are way up there for me. These days, I enjoy getting my kids out into nature.

What’s the best way to spend time in the outdoors in the Shenandoah Valley? The hiking and biking opportunities around here are nearly endless. There are so many great ways to work up a thirst for some cold ones in the evening!