Recently established in the heart of the Sullivan Catskills, Two Farms Brewing reimagines the farm-to-glass experience, blending artisanal brewing with the rustic charm of Winterton Farms.
Located on the scenic 32-acre Winterton Farms, which warmly welcomes both families and pets, Two Farms Brewing made its debut on November 1 of this year. The Sullivan County brewery offers a range of craft beers that highlight both local flavors and ingredients. Two Farms Brewing is not just a place to drink; it’s a destination where each brew tells a story.
The idea for Two Farms was born from a simple homebrew kit and a love for the craft shared between friends who later became business partners. Mike Bruestle, who transitioned from a career in law enforcement and is now head brewer, started his brewing journey 15 years ago after being inspired by his colleagues. He and his wife, Shana, along with Erika Malmgreen and her husband, Kent Findley, envisioned a brewery that would integrate the produce from their farms, creating uniquely crafted, locally sourced beers.
Keeping It Local
Two Farms Brewing’s beer-making process is deeply intertwined with local agriculture, using ingredients sourced from within New York State to highlight fresh flavors and foster community engagement. Hops and grains are selected with care, often directly from neighboring farms, ensuring that each pint reflects the region’s landscape.
“We’re always trying to source as locally and close as possible first, before outsourcing from somebody else,” says Malmgreen.
The brewery stands out for its use of unique ingredients like lavender and maple syrup, harvested directly from Winterton Farms, which infuse the beers with distinctive, memorable flavors.
Sustainability and Community
Sustainability is a cornerstone of the brewery’s operations. From using leftover brewery grains to feed local livestock to implementing water recycling for irrigation, Two Farms Brewing is dedicated to minimizing its environmental footprint and creating a stronger community.
This commitment extends beyond the farm and into community engagement, which happens through partnerships with local food trucks and musicians to enhance the area’s social and cultural landscape. Featured food trucks include Luna’s Cocina, Bunz on the Run, and RESQ Food Truck, among others, providing a diverse culinary experience that complements the brewery.
Two Farms Brewing also deepens its connection to the local area through active participation in farmers’ markets, festivals, and local events. Happenings such as the Joy to Wurstboro event showcase the brewery’s involvement, as the team sets up booths and offers beer tastings to introduce the brews to a wider audience and foster engagement.
“It feels like we’re building something bigger than just a brewery—we’re part of something special in the Sullivan Catskills,” shares Mike Bruestle.
What’s on Tap
The brewery offers an evolving lineup of beers that capture the essence of the area. From traditional IPAs to innovative brews using seasonal ingredients, each beer is crafted with precision and care. The menu is designed to evolve with the seasons, ensuring that returning visitors always find something new and exciting to try. For those who prefer nonalcoholic options, the brewery also offers a selection of refreshing beverages that cater to all guests.
“There’s joy in experimentation, and people come for that. They appreciate trying new things and tasting things they’ve never had before,” says Shana Bruestle
Seasonal brews like the Lavender Peach Wheat and Smoked Maple Stout are current crowd favorites. For the holiday season, Two Farms Brewing introduced two special brews right in time for the festivities. The Barnyard Brew is an innovative beer that underscores Two Farms Brewing’s dedication to sustainability. Crafted from unused grains, this beer not only minimizes waste but promises a distinctive flavor profile that’s bound to delight guests. Alongside the Barnyard Brew, Krampus, a brew that’s infused with honey, cinnamon, and ginger, adds a festive touch.
The Vibe at Two Farms Brewing
Guests at Two Farms Brewing are greeted by an atmosphere that blends rustic features with modern comfort. The expansive outdoor beer garden offers panoramic views of the surrounding farm, while the cozy indoor seating area provides a warm retreat in colder months.
Two Farms Brewing offers brewery tours that allow visitors to get an up-close look at the brewing process and the detailed care that goes into each batch of beer. These tours not only educate guests about the art of brewing but also emphasize the brewery’s commitment to sustainability. They’re immersive experiences that connect guests with the origins of the ingredients and the stories behind their favorite brews.
“People come in [and] they don’t know what to expect. They come in strangers, and they leave as friends,” says Mike Bruestle.
What’s in Store for Two Farms Brewing
Looking forward, Two Farms Brewing aims to expand its reach within and beyond Hudson Valley. Plans to increase brewing capacity and distribution, coupled with the introduction of new and experimental brews, promise exciting growth. The owners also envision incorporating a permanent food truck onsite to complement the beers with locally inspired dishes.
“It feels like we have been doing this a lifetime, but it also feels so new. I am very excited for this journey and to see where the next few years take us,” emphasizes Shana Bruestle.
Two Farms Brewing welcomes guests on Fridays from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. and on weekends from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. Check the schedule for upcoming events and food truck appearances to enjoy a full day of craft beer, a variety of food options, and live entertainment. For more information, visit the website.
Two Farms Brewing
689 Winterton Rd, Bloomingburg
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