Who is the owner of Wicked Weed Brewing? Being a lover of beer and someone who frequently visits breweries, this curiosity has been on my mind for some time now. The narratives behind the breweries I visit have always piqued my interest, and Wicked Weed Brewing is certainly no different. So, let’s delve into the details of who owns this well-known craft brewery.
A Brief History of Wicked Weed Brewing
Wicked Weed Brewing was founded in 2012 by brothers Walt and Luke Dickinson along with their friends Ryan, Rick, and Denise Guthy. The brewery, based in Asheville, North Carolina, quickly gained a reputation for its innovative and adventurous beers. With a focus on sour and wild ales, Wicked Weed pushed the boundaries of traditional brewing and attracted a loyal following.
Over the years, Wicked Weed Brewing expanded its operations, opening additional locations, including Funkatorium, a dedicated sour beer facility, and the infamous Funk House, where unique barrel-aged and experimental beers are crafted.
The Acquisition by AB InBev
In 2017, news broke that Wicked Weed Brewing had been acquired by Anheuser-Busch InBev, one of the largest beer conglomerates in the world. This acquisition sent shockwaves through the craft beer community, with mixed reactions from fans and industry insiders.
As someone who values the independence and creativity of craft breweries, I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of disappointment. Wicked Weed had been known for its boundary-pushing beers and commitment to the local community. The acquisition raised concerns about the potential impact on beer quality, creativity, and the brewery’s ties to the local craft beer scene.
However, it is important to acknowledge that the decision to sell was a personal one for the founders of Wicked Weed Brewing. In a statement, they explained that the partnership with AB InBev would provide them with the resources and distribution network to continue growing and reaching a wider audience.
Impact on the Brewery and Craft Beer Community
Following the acquisition, Wicked Weed Brewing continued its operations in Asheville, with no immediate changes to its existing lineup of beers. However, the move did have consequences for the brewery’s reputation within the craft beer community.
Some beer enthusiasts felt betrayed, viewing the sale as a sell-out to corporate interests. They believed that Wicked Weed had abandoned its roots and the values that the craft beer movement stood for. Others were more understanding, recognizing the financial opportunities and growth potential that the partnership could bring.
It’s worth noting that AB InBev has a history of acquiring craft breweries and allowing them to operate with a degree of independence. Some breweries, such as Goose Island and Elysian Brewing, have maintained their creative autonomy and continued to produce high-quality beers.
Conclusion
Who owns Wicked Weed Brewing? Currently, Wicked Weed Brewing is owned by Anheuser-Busch InBev. While the acquisition may have raised concerns within the craft beer community, it’s important to approach the topic with an open mind. The decision to sell was a personal one for the founders and was made with the intention of securing the brewery’s future.
As a beer lover, my hope is that Wicked Weed Brewing can strike a balance between growth and maintaining the qualities that made it beloved in the first place. Only time will tell how this acquisition will shape the future of the brewery and its impact on the craft beer landscape.
