(Courtesy Brooklyn Brewery)

Brooklyn Brewery isn’t just one of the OGs of American craft beer—it’s one of the few that’s managed to stay relevant without losing its identity. Over its multi-decade run, it has become a cornerstone of American craft beer.

But beyond its familiar amber lager, there’s a lot more going on across the river from Manhattan.

And here are 10 things you might not know about Brooklyn Brewery…

It Started With a Journalist and a Banker

The brewery was founded in 1988 by Steve Hindy, a former foreign correspondent, and Tom Potter, a banker. Not your typical brewing duo—but maybe that outsider perspective helped them see what American beer could become.

Their Brewmaster Is Basically Beer Royalty

Garrett Oliver joined in 1994 and helped shape not just Brooklyn Brewery, but modern craft beer itself. He’s written books, judged competitions, and is widely considered one of the most influential brewers in the world.

(Courtesy Brooklyn Brewery)

The Iconic “B” Came From a Design Legend

The instantly recognizable Brooklyn “B” logo was created by Milton Glaser—the same guy behind the famous “I ♥ NY” design. Not a bad resume to have on your beer label.

Brooklyn Lager Was a Comeback Beer

When they launched, American beer was still deep in its light lager era. Brooklyn Lager was intentionally bold—amber, malty, and hopped enough to stand out. It wasn’t just a flagship, it was a statement.

They Helped Put Brooklyn Back on the Map

Before Williamsburg became what it is today, Brooklyn Brewery was already there, brewing beer and quietly helping redefine the borough’s identity as a creative hub.

They’re Big on Global Collaboration

Brooklyn Brewery has collaborated with brewers from all over the world, including projects with breweries in Japan, Sweden, and beyond. Their “Brooklyn Brewery Mash” program has taken that international spirit on the road for years.

They Don’t Just Make Beer—They Tell Stories

From label design to event programming, Brooklyn Brewery has always leaned into storytelling. Whether it’s a limited release or a global collab, there’s usually a deeper narrative behind the beer.

 Sustainability Is a Big Deal There

Long before it was trendy, the brewery was investing in sustainability—from energy efficiency to waste reduction. Brewing beer takes a lot of resources, and they’ve been working to lighten that footprint for years.

They’ve Got a Serious Barrel-Aging Program

While they’re best known for approachable classics, Brooklyn Brewery has a deep bench of experimental and barrel-aged beers, many developed under Garrett Oliver’s watch. Some of these releases fly way under the radar—but probably shouldn’t.

They’re Still Independent—and Still Evolving

In an era of constant consolidation, Brooklyn Brewery remains independent. And while they’ve grown into a global brand, they’ve managed to keep that original mix of creativity, attitude, and Brooklyn edge.

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