Green Bench Brewing Co.: A Toast to St. Petersburg's Craft Beer Revolution
From Humble Beginnings to Hoppy Success: The Journey of St. Petersburg's First Microbrewery
How did Green Bench Brewing Start?
In the sun-drenched, waterfront city of St. Petersburg, three individuals—Steven Duffy, Nathan Stonecipher, and Khris Johnson—found themselves rooted deeply in love with their hometown. It's here, amidst the coastal breezes and bustling community, that their shared passion for craft brewing and their city's vibrant culture led them to create Green Bench Brewing Co., the city's pioneering microbrewery.
From its conception, Green Bench was more than a business venture for this trio—it was the manifestation of a shared hobby, a professional pursuit of passion, and a tribute to the place they called home. While their backgrounds were diverse, their vision for Green Bench was unified and resolute: to produce an array of distinctive beers, meads, and ciders that would not only reflect their dedication to quality and creativity but would also resonate with and enrich the local community.
Their commitment to utilizing a blend of fresh, local, and traditional ingredients was unwavering, with a clear goal to craft beverages that would both honor the city's tastes and push the boundaries of the expected. Green Bench was envisaged as a gathering place, a ground zero for conversation, camaraderie, and the cultivation of relationships—a social anchor in the heart of St. Petersburg.
Mindful growth was a cornerstone of their philosophy. Duffy, Stonecipher, and Johnson were determined to nurture Green Bench Brewing Co. with a deliberate pace, ensuring the brand's integrity and the satisfaction of their patrons remained paramount, favoring the artisanal quality and innovation of their products over sheer volume.
The founders aspired for Green Bench to be more than just a brewery; they envisioned it as a cornerstone of the community, a source of civic pride, and a contributor to the local business tapestry that would reflect the spirit of St. Petersburg itself.
Transforming this vision into reality was no small feat. Crafting a business plan was just the beginning of a journey marked by regulatory challenges, such as changing zoning laws and use codes, and navigating the complexities of industrial real estate. Their resolve was tested as they sought the right partners, faced losses, and revived their dream repeatedly until, at last, they secured the support that would bring their vision to life. In 2013, the construction of their brewery commenced, marking a new chapter in their story and the city's history.
The path Duffy, Stonecipher, and Johnson traveled was strewn with personal sacrifices and obstacles that would test the will of any entrepreneur. Yet, it is precisely this challenging journey that underscores their unwavering dedication and authenticity. The creation of Green Bench Brewing Co. is a testament to their deep-running passion, genuine vision, and steadfast perseverance.
Indeed, the creation of something exceptional never comes easy. It demands everything you have—your resolve, your sweat, your tears. But for the founders of Green Bench Brewing Co., every step, every hurdle, every moment of uncertainty was invaluable. It's this very process that imbues their product with its essence, making the result not just a beverage, but a priceless elixir born from the pursuit of a dream fully realized in the heart of St. Petersburg.
Green Bench Brewing Co.: A Toast to St. Petersburg's Craft Beer Revolution
Green Bench Brewing Co. in St. Petersburg, Florida, offers a delightful experience that resonates with both die-hard beer aficionados and those simply seeking a pleasant hangout. Set in a dynamic locale that exudes a sense of organized chaos, this brewery stands out as a gem in the bustling heart of the city, complete with a dog-friendly policy that adds to its inclusive charm.
The brewery's inviting atmosphere is matched by the expertise and friendliness of its staff, who are always ready to guide you through their impressive selection of brews. Their offerings range from the bold flavors of fantastic IPAs to the unique and traditional Czech pours, ensuring that each visit is a novel experience. The tastefully designed patio, adorned with turf and lights, provides the perfect backdrop for sipping on their creations. And while they don't have a food menu, they welcome patrons to bring in their favorite dishes to pair with the beer, enhancing the communal vibe.
Delving into the heart of Green Bench Brewing's appeal, the beer is unquestionably the star. Not a single beer falls short in their lineup, which includes lagers, IPAs, sours, ciders, and more. The Stay Dry Stout and the Northerner mead are particularly noteworthy, with the latter delivering a tart cherry twist that entices the palate. The brewery's commitment to innovation is evident in their constantly updated selection, encouraging visitors to always ask for the latest brew.
For those who appreciate the social aspects of a brewery visit, Green Bench doesn't disappoint. The spacious outdoor seating area and relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal spot for groups, and their proximity to Tropicana Field means it's the perfect post-game destination. The blend of live music, community events, and a pet-friendly policy enriches the experience and fosters a sense of belonging among patrons.
In terms of service, Green Bench Brewing's staff shines with their helpful and detailed explanations of the beer lineup. Their enthusiasm is infectious, making each recommendation a pathway to a new favorite. And for those wanting to take a piece of the brewery home, the beer and merch store is a welcome addition.
In conclusion, Green Bench Brewing Co. is not just a brewery but a destination that captures the essence of St. Petersburg's vibrant craft beer scene. It's a place where quality beer, a welcoming environment, and a passionate team come together to create memorable experiences. Whether you're a local or just passing through, a visit to Green Bench is highly recommended for anyone looking to savor the craft of brewing at its finest.
What about the Beer?
Sunshine City IPA: ABV: 6.8%
Packed with a delightful array of hop flavors, Sunshine City IPA is a tropical paradise in a glass. The combination of Mosaic, Citra, and Azacca hops creates a symphony of tangerine, nectar, papaya, peach, kiwi, and pineapple notes that dance on your palate. The double dry-hopping process enhances the aroma and intensifies the tropical profile, making every sip a burst of sunshine.
Skyway Hazy DIPA: ABV: 8.2%
Skyway Hazy DIPA is a luscious brew that hits all the right notes. With a fruity and tropical character, this Double IPA is a smooth operator with a nice body that delivers a resinous punch. The tropical flavors meld seamlessly with a hint of sweetness, creating a juicy and satisfying drinking experience.
Postcard Pils: ABV: 4.7%
Postcard Pils is a refreshing take on the American-style Pilsner. This beer offers a clean lager fermentation with a sweet grainy flavor that is complemented by a solid American hop profile. The addition of flaked maize adds a touch of complexity, while the US-grown Mount Hood hops contribute a subtle yet distinct hoppy character. A perfect postcard from Green Bench Brewing.
Bench Life: ABV: 4.6%
Bench Life is the epitome of a refreshing American Premium Lager. With a blend of malted barley, flaked corn, and US-grown Mount Hood hops, this beer is dry, bubbly, and highly drinkable. The light body and subtle hop notes make Bench Life a go-to choice for those seeking a crisp and revitalizing brew.
Festbier: ABV: 5.8%
Festbier is a celebratory lager that transports you to Germany with its authentic flavors. Brewed with imported German malts and crafted through a traditional double decoction process, this beer exudes a clean and moderately strong malty profile. The natural carbonation enhances the overall drinking experience, making Festbier a must-try for those who appreciate the artistry of German-inspired beers.
Overall, Green Bench Brewing showcases a diverse and impressive lineup of beers that cater to a wide range of preferences, from hop-forward IPAs to classic lagers and traditional German styles. Each beer offers a unique and enjoyable drinking experience that highlights the brewery's commitment to quality and innovation. Cheers to Green Bench Brewing for crafting such exceptional brews!
Where are they, When are they open and how can you contact them?
Green Bench Brewing is located at 1133 Baum Ave N. St. Petersburg FL 33705. You can contact them via phone at (727) 800-9836. For a comprehensive overview of their offerings and upcoming events CLICK HERE to visit their website.
The brewery operates Thursday 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm, Friday 4:00 pm to 12:00 am, Saturday 12:00 pm to 12:00 am and Sunday 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm