Brewery of the Week: Gray's Brewing Company

By Brian Fry (Contact)

Published July 11, 2012

Gray's Brewing Company is far from a new, trendy micro brewery. In fact, they've been brewing great beer in Janseville, Wisconsin since 1856. The brewery, founded by Irish immigrant Jushua Gray, recently began distribution in the Mahoning Valley, making their lineup of craft beer avaiable to local lovers of the suds.

Here's a breakdown of their product lineup and where you can find it locally:

• Honey Ale (available in six packs) Uses locally harvested honey as a primary fermentation agent, which leads to a deep, rich honey flavor.
• Busted Knuckle Irish Ale (six packs) Irish ale with a blend of four malts and three varieties of hops. Great caramel / roasted flavor with a smooth finish.
• 56 Oatmeal Stout (six packs) Dark in color with a strong roasted flavor and creamy texture. Fresh rolled oats and roasted barley make for a distinct coffee flavor. A dark beer lovers dream!
• The Gray's Sampler (eight pack) Includes two of each of these beers: Honey Ale, Wisco Wheat, Busted Knuckle Ale, Rathskeller Amber Ale.

The six packs and variety packs are available at Sparkle Markets, independent wine and beer shops, liquor stores, and specialty shops around the valley. Gray's also offers two of its beers for enjoyment on draft: Honey Ale and Oatmeal Stout. Local bars featurings Grays include: Hole 37 The Side Door, TGI Fridays, RP McMurphy's Sports Bar, Crickets.

If your local store or pub doesn't carry Gray's they can easily get if for you. It is now distributed locally by Ohio Wine and Beverage. Give these Irish inspired beers a try. They are definitely worth exploring!