Memphis Beer Scene Heats Up: Soul & Spirits Acquires Memphis Made Trademark
The landscape of Memphis craft beer is brewing up exciting changes as Soul & Spirits Brewery officially announced its acquisition of the trademark and intellectual property of Memphis Made Brewing. This significant move means that many beloved local brews, which have been absent from taps across the city, are set to make a comeback under new stewardship, promising a flavorful revival for Memphis beer enthusiasts.
The Big News for Memphis Beer Lovers
In a development that has local beer fans buzzing, Soul & Spirits Brewery, a prominent fixture in Memphis’s Uptown neighborhood, completed its acquisition of Memphis Made Brewing’s trademark and intellectual property as of June 17, 2024. This isn’t an acquisition of an entire company or physical brewery assets, but rather the crucial intellectual property—recipes, branding, and the rights to produce some of Memphis’s most iconic original craft beers.
What Soul & Spirits Gains
By acquiring the intellectual property, Soul & Spirits now holds the keys to brewing many of Memphis Made’s classic recipes. The primary goal behind this strategic move is clear: to resurrect beers that held a special place in the hearts of Memphis locals. This includes fan favorites like Gage and Grind, an American Pale Ale, and the Cat’s Pajamas, an IPA, among other potential offerings that were once staples across the city’s bars and restaurants.
Remembering Memphis Made’s Legacy
Memphis Made Brewing, co-founded by Drew Barton and Andy Ashby, played a pivotal role in shaping the early craft beer scene in Memphis. Established in 2013, it was one of the pioneering breweries that introduced many Memphians to locally brewed, quality craft beer. While their taproom sadly closed in 2023, leaving a void for many loyal patrons, their distinctive brews left an indelible mark on the city’s palate, making this revival news especially poignant for long-time enthusiasts.
What This Means for Local Craft Beer
This acquisition represents more than just a brand transfer; it signifies a dynamic shift within the local craft beer market. For consumers, it means the return of cherished local brands, expanding the variety of available options and strengthening the local beer identity. For Soul & Spirits, co-founded by Chad Conyers and Joe Johnson, it solidifies their position as a major player and a hub for Memphis’s brewing heritage.
Production and Availability: What to Expect
Locals can anticipate these familiar brews to be produced at Soul & Spirits’ state-of-the-art facility in Uptown. While specific relaunch dates haven’t been widely announced, the process of bringing these recipes to life takes time, involving careful scaling and quality control. Once ready, the beers will likely be available at Soul & Spirits’ taproom and distributed to bars and retailers across the Memphis metro area, just as they once were.
A Look Ahead for the Craft Beer Scene
The integration of Memphis Made’s legacy into Soul & Spirits’ portfolio promises an exciting future. Watch for potential new twists on classic recipes, collaborative events, and a deeper connection to Memphis’s brewing history. This move not only preserves a piece of Memphis’s craft beer heritage but also invigorates the market with renewed energy and options.
| Entity | Primary Role Post-Acquisition | Impact on Memphis Beer |
|---|---|---|
| Soul & Spirits Brewery | Acquirer, Producer of Memphis Made Brands | Expands portfolio, strengthens local market presence, revives beloved beers |
| Memphis Made Brewing (IP) | Acquired Brand & Recipes | Its legacy beers return to market, preserving a piece of local history |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Memphis Made Brewing back in business?
No, Soul & Spirits Brewery acquired the *trademark and intellectual property* of Memphis Made. This means Soul & Spirits will be brewing and distributing the Memphis Made beer brands, not that Memphis Made Brewing as an operating company has reopened. - Which Memphis Made beers will Soul & Spirits bring back?
While an exhaustive list isn’t confirmed, expect popular classics like Gage and Grind American Pale Ale and Cat’s Pajamas IPA to be among the first to return. - Where will these beers be brewed?
The resurrected Memphis Made beers will be brewed at Soul & Spirits Brewery’s facility in Memphis’s Uptown neighborhood. - When can I expect to see Memphis Made beers on tap again?
The exact timeline for relaunch is still in development, but local beer fans should keep an eye on announcements from Soul & Spirits Brewery for updates on availability.
This acquisition is a testament to the enduring appeal of local craft beer and the commitment of Memphis brewers to honor the city’s unique flavors and history. Stay tuned to your local taprooms and beer distributors for the exciting return of these Memphis Made favorites!
Memphis Made beers back Soul Spirits buys trademark
