On Tuesday Night October 16, Westbrook-Gorham Rotary Club held our second "night out". This time the setting was Mister Bagel in Westbrook, followed by a visit to Yes Brewing.
President Deb welcomed members and guests and shared a few words about Rotary, including mention of our recent golf tournament and cornhole invitational fundraisers. She also promoted our upcoming Christmas Tree and Wreath sale. Secretary Christine Johnson highlighted service activities our club has ongoing right now including the Socktober sock collection and CLYNK for Literacy that helps purchase books for our libraries. Rotary's ongoing fight against polio was also covered as we pointed to our push during October to gather additional donations in our canisters that will be matched by the club in recognition of World Polio Day on October 24.
Thanks to Rick Wagner and his team at Mister Bagel for putting on a great appetizer spread. Thanks also to John Bigelow of Yes Brewing for allowing us to taste a recent batch of stout and telling us a bit about his business.
Yes Brewing was founded in Westbrook on July 1, 2017, although John had been a home brewer since 2003. He told us that he and his partner learned a big lesson about the brewing business. It really doesn't matter what they like, its what the market wants that's important. For example, sours are now currently very popular and their experimental Peanut Butter & Jelly Pale Ale has also been well received.
Yes Brewing is housed in about 2400 square feet of space, making it the third smallest brewery in the state of Maine. They are located in industrial space immediately behind Mister Bagel. John told us that they buy what they can locally for hops and grains (malt). New England's short growing season can make that a challenge, but demand has led to more local growers producing hops and grains for the local brewing industry.
Yes products can be found on tap at Legend's Rest in downtown Westbrook. You might periodically find it at Quill Books or Portland Pie as well. If you'd like to visit the brewery, they are open Thursday 3-8PM, Friday 2-8PM, Saturday 12-8PM and Sunday 12-6PM.