As the sun sets on a hallmark of Evanston's beverage scene, Temperance Beer Co. readies to close its doors for the final time. Established at the tail end of 2013, this pioneering brewery earned its place in the hearts of local craft beer aficionados with staples like the Might Meets Right and Gatecrasher IPA. But on a somber note, founder Josh Gilbert announced that the brewery will cease operations on Sunday, October 27, with all forthcoming brewery tours being axed, and refunds en route to customers, reported Eater Chicago.
The landscape of craft beer has shifted beneath the feet of brewers and enthusiasts alike. Gilbert describes the craft beer world today as "barely recognizable" compared to the scene a mere decade ago. "It's difficult to even imagine that kind of excitement for a new brewery launch these days," he laments in the statement echoed by Eater Chicago. As tastes pivot towards spirits such as bourbon, the non-alcoholic trend, and the fizzy lure of spiked seltzers, these preferences are reshaping the market. Temperance Beer has heeded this trend, having introduced 'Near Tears,' their first non-alcoholic brew, earlier this year, aiming to court those participating in dry January with a flavorful alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages.
According to a Brewbound report, Near Tears is a double dry-hopped near beer, infused with Amarillo and Mosaic hops and possessing a light and bright profile despite its stark 0.3% ABV. Lauded by Gilbert, this innovation demonstrated a nimble adaptation as he sang praises for the brew. "Near Tears is the brew Temperance was meant to make," Gilbert stated, highlighting it's the ultimate Temperance beer, adding, "Our brewers are always up for a challenge, so this fall we talked about creating an N/A recipe for dry January."
The abrupt closure of Temperance marks a poignant shift not only for the Evanston locals but for the wider craft beer community, which has recently grown accustomed to a seemingly endless proliferation of niche breweries. The Temperance head brewer Claudia Jendron, notable for being among the few women leading the charge in the industry, played a significant role in establishing the brewery's reputation from its inception. Patrons and peers, including personalities such as Block Club Chicago co-founder Shamus Toomey and former Tribune beer and spirits writer Josh Noel, have expressed their sorrow on the brewery's Instagram post, as noted by Eater Chicago. With the countdown to the final pour underway, enthusiasts have a dozen days to revisit and toast to what has been an influential part of Evanston's fermenting history.
