Oberon beer has carved a special niche in the hearts of beer enthusiasts across the United States. With its refreshing taste, light body, and citrusy, smooth flavor profile, it has become a staple, especially during the warmer months. But where does this beloved brew hail from? The answer lies in the state of Michigan, home to Bell’s Brewery, the creator of Oberon.
Bell’s Brewery
A Brief History of Bell’s Brewery
Bell’s Brewery has a rich and storied past. It was founded in 1983 as the Kalamazoo Brewing Co. by Larry Bell. What started as a passion project with a 15 – gallon soup kettle has blossomed into one of the largest craft breweries in America. In 1985, it officially became Bell’s Brewery. Larry Bell’s love for beer led him to transform a homebrewing store into a full – fledged brewery that now distributes its products nationwide, including to Puerto Rico.
The Location of Bell’s Brewery
Bell’s Brewery has two main operational sites. The first is the Eccentric Café in downtown Kalamazoo. This is not just a brewery; it has evolved into a vibrant taproom, restaurant, and music venue. The second, and more significant in terms of production, is the large – scale production facility in Comstock, Michigan. The Comstock complex, which opened in 2002, spans an impressive 200,000 square feet. It serves as the epicenter of Bell’s national beer production, enabling the brewery to reach all 50 states.
The Brewing Process of Oberon in Michigan
Fermentation with Signature Yeast
Oberon is a wheat ale that owes much of its unique flavor to the fermentation process. It is fermented with Bell’s signature house ale yeast. This yeast plays a crucial role in creating the beer’s character. As the yeast ferments the sugars in the wort, it produces a combination of flavors. It imparts a spicy hop character while also bringing out mildly fruity aromas. The yeast’s activity during fermentation is carefully monitored to ensure that the balance between these flavors is just right.
The Role of Wheat Malt in Brewing
Another key aspect of Oberon’s brewing process is the addition of wheat malt. Wheat malt is an essential ingredient as it lends a smooth mouthfeel to the beer. When the malted wheat is mashed and then brewed, it contributes to the beer’s texture. The smoothness provided by the wheat malt makes Oberon a highly drinkable beer, which is one of the reasons it has become such a classic summer beer. The ratio of wheat malt to other grains in the mash is carefully calibrated to achieve the desired mouthfeel and flavor profile.
Ingredients Sourcing for Oberon Beer
Water
Water is the most abundant ingredient in beer, and for Oberon, the source of water is of great importance. Bell’s Brewery in Comstock is fortunate enough to tap into the same water aquifer as in Kalamazoo, even though the new brewery is 7 miles away from the original location. This ensures that the water used in brewing Oberon has a consistent quality and mineral content. The water’s characteristics, such as its pH level and mineral composition, play a significant role in the brewing process. It affects everything from the efficiency of mashing to the final flavor of the beer.
Malted Barley and Hops
In addition to water and wheat malt, Oberon contains malted barley and hops. The malted barley provides the fermentable sugars necessary for the yeast to convert into alcohol. Different varieties of malted barley can contribute different flavors, from a subtle sweetness to a more complex, nutty taste.
Hops, on the other hand, are responsible for the beer’s bitterness and aroma. The hops used in Oberon are carefully selected to provide a spicy hop character that complements the fruity aromas from the yeast and the smoothness from the malt. The brewing team at Bell’s spends a great deal of time researching and sourcing the best quality malted barley and hops to ensure the high – quality and distinct flavor of Oberon.
Oberon’s Seasonal Significance in Michigan
The Tradition of Oberon Day
Oberon has become so ingrained in Michigan’s culture that its release is celebrated with Oberon Day. Every year, in late March, thousands of fans flock to Kalamazoo to be among the first to enjoy the season’s first sip of Oberon. This annual celebration has grown to such an extent that in 2022, it was declared a Michigan holiday and the unofficial start to spring by Governor Whitmer. Oberon Day is not just about the beer; it’s a community event where people come together to celebrate the arrival of warmer days and the start of the summer beer – drinking season.
Seasonal Availability and Appeal
Oberon is a seasonal beer, typically available from March to September. This limited availability adds to its allure. As the weather starts to warm up, beer drinkers eagerly anticipate the return of Oberon. Its light body and refreshing flavor make it the perfect accompaniment to outdoor activities such as barbecues, picnics, and beach outings. The beer’s citrusy notes are particularly appealing during the summer months, providing a refreshing contrast to the heat. The seasonal nature of Oberon also allows Bell’s Brewery to focus on producing this iconic beer during a specific time of the year, ensuring that the quality remains top – notch.
Conclusion
Oberon beer is proudly made in Michigan by Bell’s Brewery. From the historical roots of the brewery in Kalamazoo to the state – of – the – art production facility in Comstock, every step of the brewing process is carefully executed. The use of signature yeast, quality ingredients sourced with care, and the unique water from the local aquifer all contribute to the distinct flavor of Oberon. The beer’s seasonal significance in Michigan, marked by the celebration of Oberon Day, further cements its place in the hearts of locals and beer lovers across the nation. Whether you’re enjoying it on a sunny summer day in Michigan or in another state, Oberon represents the best of Michigan’s craft brewing scene. Its legacy continues to thrive, as it remains a timeless testament to the artistry and passion that goes into crafting exceptional beer, inviting new generations to discover and savor its Michigan – made charm.
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