Hooked on Ballast Point

beer-sculpinWe’ve introduced you to some up and coming spirits and brews across the country, but this week we wanted to bring it back home. A recent article showing the top alcohol trends highlighted locally produced spirits and beer as one of the fastest growing trends in the country right now.

Consumers are increasingly looking to identify with what they’re drinking and being able to say they’re supporting their local economy is one  way to do that. For us, that means San Diego, and Ballast Point Brewing and Spirits.

Ballast Point was founded by Jack White and Yuseff Cherney in 1996 right here in San Diego. At the time, Jack had been running a local home brew supplies store since 1992 and had brought on Yuseff to help out as the business grew. Shortly thereafter, they moved Jack’s personal home brew operation to the back of the store and Ballast Point was born.

As word spread, Ballast Point did too.

It’s line of beers are now available nation wide and it’s added lines of Vodka, Rum, and Gin. They’ve collected a host of awards in recent years including 3 gold meals at the World Beer Cup and Brewery of the Year in 2010.

With Summer quickly approaching, we recommend taking a look at Ballast Point’s Sculpin IPA. With flavors of apricot, peach, mango, and lemon, it’s a great summer IPA. Winner of the World Beer Cup IPA Category in 2010, it’s perfect for outdoor parties and picnics.