Bath’s beer scene is about to be given a boost as an ambitious new craft brewery and tap room is set to open, with Electric Bear Brewing Co. preparing for their public launch in early August.
Situated on Brassmill Lane, near the Lower Bristol Road the brewery is taking over the site of a former Maltings giving it a strong link to Britain’s rich brewing heritage and the name of the brewery takes inspiration from the Bear Flat area where brewery founder Chris Lewis has lived for 20 years.
Building works are currently in progress at the 5,500 square foot unit transforming it from an empty building into a craft brewery and taproom.
Over £300,000 has been invested in brewing equipment, renovation, branding, merchandise and glassware.
The potential for the business was also recognised by the West of England Growth Fund who awarded the business an additional £60,000 of funding.
Speaking about the impending launch of the brewery Mr Lewis said; “I’m a passionate beer fan and have been a keen home brewer for years.
“It might sound like a cliché but when I sold my business in 2012 I thought this was the perfect opportunity for me to pursue a career I’d always dreamed about.
“The craft beer scene is exploding across the UK with lots of people doing some really interesting things however I believe there is still plenty of room to grow and innovate. And that’s what we want Electric Bear to do.
“Obviously it’s all about brewing great beer but we hope the taproom will serve to bring local beer lovers together.
“On a recent trip to the US I was really impressed with how the local brewery was a hub for the community and this is something we’re passionate about here in Bath.”
Award-winning head brewer Guillermo Alvarez will be creating five core beers for the Electric Bear range along with seasonal ‘World Series’ beers inspired by ingredients, styles and brewing techniques from around the world.
Details on the beers are being kept under wraps until the launch.
You can watch the brewery come to life on Twitter @ElectricBearUK or Instagram @ElectricBearBrewing or sign up via the website www.electricbearbrewing.co.uk.
