Background
In 2011, Dallas was one of the handful of large cities that did not have a microbrewery. Then, between 2011 and 2012 three microbreweries opened in the Dallas area: Deep Ellum Brewing, Peticolas, and Lakewood Brewing. John Reardon, a longtime home brewer and former Dallas club owner had a far-out dream to open a brewery.
Reardon opened his brewery in one of Dallas’ most historically and culturally significant neighborhoods, Deep Ellum. This stemmed from the term, Deep on Elm. The neighborhood was established in 1873 as a manufacturing district for black and European immigrants. However, its main claim to fame didn’t begin until the 1920s when several early jazz and blues musicians moved in, and performed at local venues.
Reardon, in 2018 diversified into liquor and opened Deep Ellum Distillery. Later in 2018 the company announced that a controlling interest in the brewery was sold to Canarchy. Canarchy’s portfolio includes Oskar Blues Brewery, Perrin Brewing Co., Cigar City Brewing, Squatters Craft Beer and Wasatch Brewery. The transaction, gave Deep Ellum a much-needed capital infusion to finish a $3 million expansion. They also gained access to increased brewing capacity at Oskar Blues satellite production facility in Austin. Deep Ellum’s new distillery and vodka brand were not included in the deal.
Deep Ellum then opened a taproom in Fort Worth, that incorporates a 5 bbl Brewhouse and retail space.
Experience
We arrived at Deep Ellum Brewing on a rainy Tuesday afternoon. After finally finding the brewery we parked on the street. The brewery is in a funky graffiti marked industrial like area under the freeway bridges. They have a smallish cozy interior with a large outdoor patio. Entry into the tasting room is accessible although there are stairs to get to the restrooms.
We started with a flight with our favorites being Dreamcrusher Double IPA and Play Date, a Sour. The friendly bartender also let us try a deliciously smooth Imperial Stout, Darkest Hour. They do offer a pretty varietal menu of food and we shared a very good burger with hand cut french fries. No nearby lodging noted.
When in Dallas also check out Peticolas Brewing and Community Beer Co !
https://www.deepellumbrewing.com/
