Ep. 23 - Exploring the Art of Craft Beer with Chris Spence of Social Project Brewing

The B Team Podcast

Curious about what makes a craft beer truly exceptional? Join us on the B-Team Podcast as we uncover the secrets behind the Social Project, one of Bentonville's premier breweries, with none other than Chris Spence at the helm. Chris shares his fascinating journey from a craft beer enthusiast to a successful brewer and business owner, drawing intriguing parallels between the world of craft beer and the allure of allocated bourbons. You'll learn about the unique flavors, limited edition brews, and the evolution of the beer scene in Arkansas, all while savoring Chris's latest, crowd-pleasing creations.
Ever wondered what goes into running a bustling brewery? This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the operations, from brewing logistics to distribution partnerships with local businesses. We'll discuss the financial success and surprisingly low turnover rates at the Social Project, spotlighting a dedicated employee who has been with the company since its inception. Discover the differences between traditional West Coast IPAs and the newer, fruitier hazy IPAs, and get a preview of some of the brewery's exciting events, like their annual Masters-themed celebration complete with a golf simulator.
But that's not all—this episode delves into the vibrant world of New Zealand hops and their impact on the IPA landscape. We explore the creative process behind beer names and artwork, along with the brewing techniques that separate singles, doubles, and triples. Chris walks us through the art of balancing flavors, the challenges of brewing, and the nuances of seasonal beer pairings. From the tropical allure of fruit slushy sours to the craftsmanship behind Czech Pils, this episode promises an engaging and flavorful experience for every beer enthusiast.

Chapter

1. Ep. 23 - Exploring the Art of Craft Beer with Chris Spence of Social Project Brewing (00:00:00)

2. Craft Beer Business Insights (00:00:11)

3. Craft Beer Business Operations (00:08:47)

4. New Zealand Hops Create Unique IPA (00:13:22)

5. Craft Beer Flavor Trends (00:20:58)

6. Fruit Slushy Sours and More (00:30:30)

7. Craft Beer Business Community Connection (00:41:25)

8. Seasonal Beer Pairings and Barrel Aging (00:47:19)

9. Craft Beer Heat and Flavor Balance (00:56:21)