In this Brewer Mag archive interview, to mark the 50th issue of Brewer in mid-2023, Brewer Magazine went back to its very first cover story and reconnected with Sam Cruz, co-founder of Against the Grain Brewery in Louisville, Kentucky. In this look back, Cruz reflects with Jon Sicotte on how the brewery evolved from rapid expansion to a more deliberate, long-term strategy centered on brand integrity, market sustainability and operational focus. The conversation also touches on broader industry shifts, declining beer production and how new packaging formats are changing production planning. Recorded in early 2023, this episode offers a candid look at what it takes for a brewery to grow up, adapt and survive in a more disciplined and competitive market. This conversation offers a hard-earned perspective on when growth helps and when restraint matters more.
