Geoffrey Barker and Andrew Pogue in a field of barley in Skagit Valley. | Photo by Noah Forbes
With more than 9,000 breweries in the United States, the opportunity to drink local has never been better—and competition never stiffer. Brewers are looking to expand their reach beyond taprooms and store shelves, and many have begun to appeal to the überfan by offering club memberships that deliver special beers and other exclusive items on a regular basis. Some provide early releases and limited, special allocations for their members. For the discerning beer drinker, these clubs offer insight into a brewer’s mind and process while guaranteeing something different to open at the next bottle share.
