New Microbrewery Pays Homage to the Bird That Put Us On the Map

Petaluma has long been a hotspot for wine aficionados who love to extoll the virtue of the grape.

But beer is making quick inroads here, and the city now boasts three excellent microbreweries.

This Saturday, Petaluma's newest beer crafter, Henhouse Brewing, is celebrating its launch with a party at Taps.

Partners Scott Goyne, Collin McDonnell and Shane Goeple are all from Petaluma and each brings a different background to their effort.

McDonnell has professional experience in the Bay Area brewing industry, Goeple manages health and beauty products and Goyne is an herbalist who has operated a medicinal herbal extraction company for many years.

Their goal? Creating new and interesting kinds of delicious brew.

"We converted a system to extract essential oils into a pilot beer brewing system and have been brewing all kinds of delicious beers for a few years," said Goyne of the venture. "As our passion for brewing corresponded with an aptitude for quality, we decided to make a professional run at it.”

Saturday’s release party will feature Belgian Golden Ale, Saison (a low-alcohol pale ale) as well as an Oyster Stout, which is exactly what it sounds like-- beer brewed with oysters in the barrel.

Goyne explains the peculiar recipe.

“Oyster Stout is an old English style recipe that has historically been brewed in coastal locations. We are very supportive of the oyster industry for its amazing shellfish as food and for its positive impact on the environment.”

Taps will also feature menu items designed to be specifically paired with the beers featured from Henhouse Brewing.

With Dempsey’s and Lagunitas already populating the local beer brewing landscape, does Petaluma really need another microbrewery?

Apparently.

“The interest in craft beers is expanding exponentially in the U.S. and from the support of our peers we realized the need and desire for more local quality microbrewed beer in our community," Goyne said. "We are all from Petaluma and are committed to the support and development of Petaluma as our business locality.”

The HenHouse launch party starts at 6pm, Saturday, Feb. 25. If you can’t make it to Taps, fear not. Henhouse Brewing can already be found locally at Petaluma Market, Central Market, Water Street Bistro and Ray's Tavern and Deli. Their beers will also remain at Taps following this weekend's release party.