Meet the Brewer: Brian Carter of Freebridge Brewing; Ex-beerimental Wednesday on Jan. 24th
Ex-Beerimental Wednesdays series continues on Jan. 24th. Make sure to stop by the brewery early, as these special beers will be made in limited quantities such as the Italian Pilsner called, what else, “The Situation.”
Brian and Angie Carter muggin’ for the camera. Brian moved to The Dalles from Indiana about 15 years ago with his wife Angie.
By Julie Wadsworth
Freebridge Brewing has been making Northwest-based craft beer in downtown The Dalles for over 8 years. Starting with three varieties, and adding countless others over the years. With more beers to brew and a growing business that includes distribution - adding to the crew is a natural progression. After 5 years of running the pub, and brewing the beers, owner and head brewer Steve Light added Brian Carter to the team in early 2022.
Brian came to Freebridge after making beer at Full Sail Brewing, with years of experience in the beverage industry - starting with a knack for home brewing at the young age of 21.
Brian moved to The Dalles from Indiana about 15 years ago with his wife Angie. The two met while Angie was working at the local brewery, and Brian was a frequent guest. It was their shared interest in the brewery industry, and for outdoor adventures, that led them to visit the Northwest in the first place. The amount of breweries, wineries, and the kind, welcoming people in the gorge was a reason for them to stay. Brian “Absolutely loves the gorge. The scenery never gets old, and I am looking forward to raising my daughter here.”
Brian and Angie’s passion for the industry has led them both to visit “several hundred different breweries all over the country”. At the top of Brian’s bucket list for future brewery destinations is Munich, Germany for Oktoberfest. One could argue that might be on every serious brewer’s bucket list!
On days he’s not brewing, Brian likes a little catch of the day via the mighty Columbia. What beer goes well with Steelhead. Ask Brian, he’ll tell you.
One of Brian’s favorite things about Freebridge, and what makes it stand out in a crowd of so many Oregon breweries, is the sense of community. Freebridge is more than just brewing beer and serving food, it’s family. Brian has been a loyal Stein Club Member for years and has been friends with Steve and Laurie since they opened. The camaraderie and trust that comes from Brian being encouraged to “invent and brew my own recipes, and be creative in the process” is unmatched in his eyes. Coming up with new recipes, and creating new beers is a huge part of the brewing process.
As Brian puts it “We like to brew beers for the people. We listen to what the customers want and try to make it happen”. He is especially excited about the all new “Ex-Beerimental Wednesdays” series that has recently kicked off. “We’re trying new hops, and thinking outside of the box for new styles. The Italian Pilsner “The Situation” was a huge hit”. The next one is coming up on January 24th. Make sure to stop by the brewery early, as these special beers will be made in limited quantity.
On days he’s not brewing, you can find Brian fishing, camping, or hiking - often with his young daughter and chocolate goldador “Gus” along for the journey. At the end of the day you may find them relaxing at the pub enjoying a pizza together. Because when you work at a place as awesome as Freebridge, it’s hard to stay away.
Hop on Pop
About Freebridge:
Freebridge Brewing is a microbrewery & pub in The Dalles, Oregon. Located in the historic Mint Building, Freebridge is the dream of a fifth generation Oregon ranch family – Steve Light and Laurie Petroff-Light. Specializing in Northwest ales, and German lagers. Authentic Beers for Authentic People.
541-639-5665 710 E 2ND STREET, THE DALLES OR 97058 EVENTS@FREEBRIDGEBREWING.COM
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