Wednesday, May 15, 2013

New Holland Brewing's Brett VanderKamp releases first book: Art in Fermented Form: A Manifesto


Brett VanderKamp, president of New Holland Brewing Company, has released his first book titled Art in Fermented Form: A Manifesto.

In this manifesto, Brett guides readers through a discourse on the art and history of craft brewing and distilling as he presents his revolutionary new philosophy. Like the beers and sprits he has spent years perfecting, Brett hopes this book will challenge readers, launch conversations, and present an unprecedented paradigm for tasting a life less ordinary. The book, a collection of stories about VanderKamp’s experiences in the beer and spirits industry, his favorite historical anecdotes and some frank thoughts on the future of craft, hit the market earlier this month.

VanderKamp founded New Holland Brewing Co. when he was just 24-years-old with his best friend and $10,000. He believed that his hometown of Holland and the brewing industry were due for a shake up and since then, New Holland has delivered just that. The same passion for balance, creativity and artistry in brewing and distilling is found in VanderKamp’s very personal manifesto.

“Brett was an early pioneer in the brewing industry and he has moved to the forefront of the distilling world,” says Bill Owens – Founder and President of American Distilling Institute. “His operation in Holland, Michigan, is one of the premier breweries and distilleries in America today.”

ONLINE REVIEWS (via Amazon.com)

Art in Fermented Form: A Manifesto. Somewhere in my education, I made an error and have always associated the word Manifesto with something stern, and associated with politics, policies, and less than educational and entertaining. I now have a new and more pleasant feeling for the word Manifesto thanks to this book. It was a quick read, educational and wry, and unexpectedly, I learned a thing or two, and also realized that to savor is to think, to slow down, and ultimately enjoy. As Wayne Campbell so adroitly said... "I did not know that." and yes, I also did not know how much care, and thought, and reflection goes into the Art of Brewing Craft Beers - whether today in 2013 or eons in the past. Craft Brewing is Humanity being creative, and enjoying the results. Mr. VanderKamp is a gifted writer, and he created an easy and enjoyable Book, with the same passion and humor and care that he puts into making his craft Beers and Spirits. Highly recommend this book. (RBB)

Brett VanderKamp gives a great guide in how important it can be to take a few minutes to connect with people while enjoying one of the wonderful God given gifts -a cold pint of hand crafted beer or spirits. He does it with a walk through history on the origins of these drinks and how important they were/are to our society. It's a very quick/interesting read that you don't need to read in any particular order. I liked how he mixed art (drawings), facts (historical), and perspectives (his, other famous people) in a book that reminds us, life is not just about fast food, flavorless drink and addictive technology. Community, flavorful food/drink and conversation needs to be back in vogue. (GTC)


About New Holland Brewing Co.
New Holland Brewing Company’s deep roots in the craft industry go back to 1997. Our role as an integral member of the artisan approach is something we take seriously, yet engage lightheartedly. We believe the art of craft lives in fostering rich experiences for our customers, through creating authentic beer, spirits and food while providing great service. Recognized for our creativity and artistry, our mission to improve the lives of craft consumers everywhere is seen in our diverse, balanced collection of beer and spirits.

New Holland brews and distills at two locations in Holland, Michigan: our production facility on the north side and our Pub & Restaurant in downtown Holland. The restaurant welcomes guests seven days a week and production tours are on Saturday afternoons. We welcome visitors and locals alike, and appreciate the opportunity to share our artisan approach through warm hospitality and enriching education.

With just under 150 employees, New Holland Brewing Co. sells its beer and spirits across a growing regional landscape, while anchored in the upper Midwest. In 2012, our production facility underwent substantial development including the tripling of our brewing capacity through outdoor fermentation, the addition of a centrifuge and the expansion of our Dragon’s Milk cellar. In 2013, the company is expanding its distilling capabilities, renovating the downtown Holland Pub & Restaurant and focusing on the integration of Michigan agriculture; hops, wheat and barley, into several new and existing brands.

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