Distilling Greatness: What’s Brewing for 2024
Hello everyone, and welcome to Episode 12 of the Distilling Greatness Podcast. Today, we’re delving into the passion-fueled world of brewing and distilling with three remarkable guests: Roy Milner, founder and CEO of Blackberry Farm Brewery in Maryville, Tennessee; Dr. Todd White, president and founder of the Brewing and Distilling Center in Knoxville; and Matt Shock, our production lead at Company Distilling in Townsend. Let’s immerse ourselves in their journeys, current projects, and future plans, all driven by a deep love for the craft.
Roy Milner’s Journey to Blackberry Farm Brewery
Roy Milner’s passion for brewing began in 1991 as a University of Tennessee, Knoxville student. Inspired by Belgian beers brought back by his cousin, Roy started home brewing and became deeply involved in the East Tennessee homebrew scene. After college, he co-founded Eastern Rivers Brewing Company and later worked with Boston Beer Company, gaining valuable industry experience.
Roy’s journey came full circle when he joined Blackberry Farm, launching a brewery that embraced his love for agrarian beers. Blackberry Farm Brewery continues to thrive, producing high-quality beers that celebrate local ingredients and traditional brewing methods.
Dr. Todd White’s Path to the Brewing and Distilling Center
Unlike Roy, Dr. Todd White fell in love with drinking beer before brewing it. A retired veterinarian, Todd’s quest for better-tasting beer led him to explore home brewing. His passion for quality beer grew, and he eventually owned a craft beer store, pioneering beer tastings in East Tennessee.
2013 Todd developed a brewing program at South College, later founding the Brewing and Distilling Center in 2017. The center trains aspiring brewers and distillers, strongly focusing on supporting veterans through the post-9/11 GI Bill. Todd’s commitment to education and community has made the center a cornerstone of East Tennessee’s brewing scene.
Matt Shock’s Unique Path to Craft Beer
Matt Shock’s introduction to beer came later in life, starting with craft beers like Guinness. His journey led him to become a sales rep for Tennessee Brew Works and Gypsy Circus before joining Company Distilling as a production lead. Matt’s passion for craft beer and his industry knowledge have made him an integral part of our team.
What’s New for Blackberry Farm Brewery
Roy shared exciting news about Blackberry Farm Brewery’s future. The brewery is partnering with the Oldham family, owners of several notable establishments in Townsend, including Dancing Bear and Peaceful Side Social. This collaboration aims to expand the brewery’s offerings, with plans for innovative new beers and increased event activities to engage the local community.
Brewing and Distilling Center’s Initiatives
Dr. Todd White highlighted several initiatives at the Brewing and Distilling Center, including an upcoming open house for military veterans and the launch of their subsequent professional brewing and distilling program in February 2024. The center also hosts a home brewing competition in partnership with Orange Hat Brewing, raising scholarship funds.
Company Distilling’s New Releases
Matt Shock introduced Company Distilling’s latest releases: a chocolate milk stout and a Belgian triple. These new beers, perfect for winter, showcase the creativity and skill of our brewing team. We’re also excited to offer barrel-aged variations, incorporating flavors from our whiskey production.
Final Thoughts
As we conclude this year’s podcast episodes, we celebrate the vibrant brewing and distilling community in East Tennessee, a community that our guests have significantly contributed to. Their work, driven by passion, innovation, and collaboration, not only pushes the industry forward but also enriches our local community. We invite you to be a part of this journey, to explore these local breweries and distilleries, support their events, and savor their exceptional products.
Stay tuned for more episodes of Distilling Greatness, where we continue to explore the world of brewing, distilling, and the people who make it all happen.
For more information, visit our guests’ websites:
– [Blackberry Farm Brewery](https://www.blackberryfarm.com/brewery)
– [Brewing and Distilling Center](https://www.brewinganddistillingcenter.com)
– [Company Distilling](https://www.companydistilling.com)
