This week, I learned what the term "scofflaw" means. Used during Prohibition, scofflaw referred to a person who drank illegally, and while the term is still used today to describe any law violators (those who "scoff" at the law), in Atlanta, the word has taken on an entirely new meaning. Enter Scofflaw Brewing Co., the latest in Atlanta's craft beer scene.
I have to admit that while I'm not much of a beer drinker, I love going to breweries. There's something about the spirit that lingers within them that is simply energizing, and Scofflaw is no different. Located on Atlanta's Westside in an old warehouse, the energy at Scofflaw is contagious. You can almost feel it in the air which is probably due in large part to owner Matt Shirah. The pride that Matt has in his craft brew permeates the building. He speaks assertively about his "baby" (the brewery, obviously) and with incredible knowledge about his craft.
What I found most interesting about Matt and Scofflaw, is that Matt has hired a series of scientists to help him bring his vision to life. In fact, co-founder Travis Herman is a former pharmaceutical developer and other brewery employees are also scientists. I'm not sure the average beer drinker considers the science behind brewing. So often we hear of basement brewers who decide to try their hand at the craft brew market, and while Matt was definitely a basement brewer, he took a different path to bring his vision to fruition. And it works.
Scofflaw's brewery is different from others in Atlanta because of its open space. Visitors can actually see the huge tanks, watch the brewers at work, and even walk among them. Matt says he wanted visitors to feel a part of the process, and not to hide anything behind walls. The tasting room is lined with vintage picnic tables, benches, and chairs beckoning people to sit and stay a while.
The brewery will launch to the public September 17th, but in the meantime, you can get a taste of what's cooking throughout the month of August at area restaurants. My Scofflaw beer of choice? The Sneaky Wheat which Matt disclosed is 8% ABV and will "sneak up on ya." He wasn't kidding.
Find Scofflaw at the following restaurants:
Friday, August 5, at 6 p.m. – The Midway Pub
552 Flat Shoals Avenue SE, Atlanta, GA 30316
Tuesday, August 9, at 6 p.m. – Brick Store Pub
125 E. Court Square, Decatur, GA 30030
1190 North Highland Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
433 N. McDonough Street, Decatur, GA 30030
1410 Dresden Drive #100, Atlanta, GA 30319
Thanks for sharing, this looks like a cool place to go and it's nearby! I'm adding it to my list of places to go!
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