Brew news
New brewery and taproom buzzes into San Antonio's booming craft beer scene
A new brewery will soon breathe even more life into San Antonio’s already booming craft beer scene. Viva Brewery will launch production in mid-September before opening a taproom at 533 Delaware St. in fall 2020.
The upcoming brewery and taproom, founded by neighbors Michael Johnson and Bobby Jones, who began home-brewing in Johnson's garage in early 2018, will soon anchor an ambitious development in Denver Heights, notes a release.
The space, a former auto parts warehouse, is being developed by Ross Ormond, vice president of Texarkana-based Offenhauser & Co. Insurance. In addition to the brewery and taproom, it will feature a restaurant, offices, and a community gathering space. The East Side location puts Viva in proximity with stalwart San Antonio breweries like Freetail Brewing and Alamo Beer Company.
"We couldn't have found a more perfect location for our new brewery," says Jones in the release. "Denver Heights will be the hub for our brand and all San Antonio drinkers."
Viva will initially launch with four core beers: Amarillo Ale, a blonde ale; Americana, a lager; Battle of the Hops, an IPA; and the cleverly named Ale Niño, a tropical pale ale. While details have not been released, expect the beers to be available prior to the taproom's opening. Seasonal and experimental brews will be added once the taproom opens, but the focus will remain on approachability.
"Our beer is really important to us. We have spent countless nights developing a solid product with great flavor profiles," says Johnson in the release.
The new brand will add to the Alamo City’s bustling craft brewing scene. Following rapid growth in 2018, San Antonio has continued to grow in 2019 with projects like Dos Sirenos Brewing and Maverick Whiskey’s beer program.
"The city means so much to us and our families, and we want to be a part of it," says Jones. "We're excited not just about the delicious beer and amazing development of a brewhouse and taproom but also about engaging with this fantastic city by supporting local commerce and serving delicious beer."
