UBC: High Point in the High Country

He who drinks beer sleeps well.  He who sleeps well cannot sin.  He who does not sin goes to Heaven.  Let us all drink beer and go to Heaven. Amen.—German Monk Proverb

For centuries, breweries have served as a pillar of the community, producing beer for countless thirsty locals. Curious brewmasters experimented with various combinations of hops and yeast to conjure up delicious libations that entice the palate and awaken the spirit. As breweries changed to adapt to their environments, so did ideas about what made a fine beer. The brewmasters at the Utah Brewers Cooperative (UBC) are no exception.  Head Brewers, Adam Curfew, Dave McKean and Jon Lee use their collective creativity to develop new selections, putting the UBC at the forefront of the industry.

In order to facilitate their domination of the local beer market, the owners of Squatters and Wasatch Breweries joined forces in 2000 to create a third entity know as the UBC. “Now we are twice the brewery, now we are a team,” said McKean.  Before the deal was even inked, the UBC began producing beer in its improved facility at 1763 South 300 West.  With the ability to use each other’s resources and increase their buying power, Squatters and Wasatch churned out barrels of their tasty brews for Utahns to enjoy.

Home brewers at heart, these three know how to make a fantastic beer and understand the importance of the time and effort that goes into it. In 2008, the UBC ranked 43 in the Top 50 Craft Breweries by the Brewer’s Association—a noteworthy achievement that places them ahead of every other craft brewery in the state. “This recognition shows how vibrant the beer community in Utah is and that the people here love craft beer,” said Curfew.  Lee said, “It is reflective of the beer drinking community and their tastes.  We make 21 beers and everyone can find one that they like.”     

Head brewers Dave McKean, Jon Lee and Adam Curfew at the UBC.
Photo: Adam Heath
  

Included in their cast of 21 are two newcomers: Wasatch Summerbrau and Summer Twilight.  Inspired by, you guessed it, summer.  These brews are meant to capture the essence of the season, “That good, refreshing, I’ve-been-working-in-the-yard type of beer,” Curfew said.  For those Provo Girl and 1st Amendment addicts, Summerbrau is a copper-hued, Czech-style pilsner-lager that is sure to calm the nerves. “This is really a brewer’s beer, pilsner has always been a favorite of mine,” said Lee. Summer Twilight is a kölsch style beer that started at the Wasatch Brew Pub and has been slowly refined over the years.  “It has become one of co-owner Greg Schirf’s favorites, and one that he really wanted to see on the shelves,” said Lee.  These two brews score high on the Alcohol by Volume (ABV) index, 5.6% and 4% respectively.  Perhaps the best part of all of this is that the UBC can sell its high-point selections cold.  Imagine that.  Fresh and delicious beer, refrigerated and ready for immediate consumption—off-premises of course!

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Comments on this article

Posted on June 5, 2009 by Charles Gordon

Well written article. I love Squatters and Wasatch so much and I am glad to here more delicious beer is on the way!

Posted on June 8, 2009 by MamaBear

Great article! You make me so proud!!

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