Marietta Brewing Company Calls it Quits
Many of us knew it was coming, but earlier today when I received a Facebook status update from longtime MBC brewer Kelly Sauber, the reality sunk in. Kelly’s update simply said “Last batch lautering @ MBC”…
The business outlook for a brewpub in the rather small town of Marietta was always a challenging one, but somehow MBC made it through for many years, albeit with a few ownership and brewer changes along the way. From the moment Kelly Sauber slipped on those brewery boots, the place had a chance. Kelly slowly improved and revamped may of the standard recipes like “True Meridian” amber lager and the MBC transition beer called “Georges First” all with the magic of Kelly’s propogated 2112 yeast strain (or as many called it 21,112 jokingly alluding to how many times the yeast was re-pitched). One of the keys to the longevity of MBC run was the fact that Kelly became a salesman of sorts, selling much more beer to the pubs in his hometown of Athens, OH, than was sold at the brewpub itself!
One of the best of MBC and Kelly’s beers was the Scotch Ale. Kelly used his gas-fired kettle to caramelize the first runnings to give the ale it’s extra caramel/malty kick. The only time he regretted this technique was when he became distracted one time, leaving the flame on and discoloring the bottom of his brew kettle!
Marietta will also find its place in regional brewing history along with Kelly for having produced what we all believe to be the first beer in the world made with paw-paws. “Paw-Paw Wheat” was always a big hit and sold out quickly. I don’t think the Paw-Paw recipe will die with the brewery however.
Of course, we have not heard the last gasp from Kelly Sauber and I will try to keep you all up to date with Kelly’s next act.
October 14th, 2009 at 6:46 pm
He was set up at Bramwell with three beers and a new name: Dancing Tree. The Raspberry Wheat won the overall silver and his Barrel Aged DIPA bronze in the pale ale category. The BADIPA was my personal best of show. And he also had a soured imperial stout that was very nice. Three good showings for KS.
Inside info is Kelly’s making a play for Marietta’s assets. I’ll try to stay tuned, too.
October 14th, 2009 at 9:29 pm
Rob, I was aware that Kelly was looking at the brewhouse. I hope he gets it. I was not aware that he was already marketing his new brewery brand. I am sorry that I missed Bramwell, but I was not up for the drive and the subsequent sleeping in my Pilot. I have not heard from you concerning the taste panel???
October 17th, 2009 at 9:39 pm
Man, I’ll miss stopping by there on the way up & back from my OH deer trip next month. Good luck to Kelly in whatever comes up.
October 20th, 2009 at 11:05 am
Just wanted to clarify, Kelly actually sold just as much beer at MBC, if not more, than he did in Athens. Maybe Athenians just appreciate it much more than the brewpub crew? Welcome home Kelly! Now make us some beer.
October 21st, 2009 at 9:52 am
Hi all! mbc will lose its licence at noon on oct 30. I thank all who I’ve met and had beers with over the last 11 years. I am looking for equipment to start anew. Dancing Tree is soon to sprout, I hope. If anyone has news on availability of equipment, pass it on, please. My plans are focusing on the Athens area.
Change is good!
November 8th, 2009 at 11:46 am
What a great beer maker , i remember all those great beers at brewmasters when i worked there, I have now brewed 3 batches and they all have come out great, next batch brown ale …maybe one of kelly’s receipes. good luck to you! California needs some good beer. Love the internet, where u can look stuff up 12 years later ….. scotch ale …awesome ….!
November 8th, 2009 at 11:46 am
What a great beer maker , i remember all those great beers at brewmasters when i worked there, I have now brewed 3 batches and they all have come out great, next batch brown ale …maybe one of kelly’s receipes. good luck to you! California needs some good beer. Love the internet, where u can look stuff up 12 years later ….. scotch ale …awesome ….!