New Brewery Launches at Buckeye Lake

Not a week goes by without us mentioning yet another local brewery being added to the beer scene in Columbus, but no one seems to be complaining about it one bit. The latest addition comes to us by way of Buckeye Lake (population 3000, located 30 miles east of Columbus) which is a popular recreational area for anyone looking for a rent-a-cottage-on-the-lake-for-a-weekend type of environment.

Rich Hennosy and his wife Jasmin just launched Buckeye Lake Brewery several weeks ago, a new brewhouse located adjacent to the lake itself. We spoke recently with Rich to find out more about the beer, food and atmosphere that this new venture will offer.

Q: First, can you tell us a bit about your  background as it relates to brewing beer?

A: As a kid, I collected beer cans. I was always into all of the different brands. My professional career in print production has always been about working with different brands. I think I have always wanted to have a brand of my own and beer was a natural fit because I love it.

Q: Can you tell us a bit about why you chose to open at Buckeye Lake?

A: My father had a cottage at Buckeye Lake in the 60′s. My brothers and sisters had fond memories of being there when they were kids. In the 1990′s they asked if I would like to partner in a cottage of our own. So now I have had a weekend place there for the last 20 years. My uncle also has a cottage at the lake. I remember family reunions there in the 70′s and 80′s with lots of good times. I also know that Buckeye Lake has a long tradition of people meeting here for good times. So we wanted to be a part of that.

Q: What specific beers does the brewery feature?

A: We started with a Blonde, an Irish, and a Pale Ale. We are trying to bring fresh beer to the community. I have always liked beer at the brew pub better than in a bottle or at another bar. We won’t be pushing the 12% Ohio law. Our current lineup is in the 4.5% to 5.6% ABV range.

Q: I understand that your brew pub also contains a restaurant. Can you tell us a bit about the food menu side of the establishment?

A: We have a simple menu of Paninis. The Italian is our best seller with the Spinach & Tomato as a close second. We also have a Ham and Cheese, Turkey & Pesto, and a Three Cheese panini, all which come with a side of blue potato chips. Our 55″ TV is hidden behind our menu board most of the time. We reveal it for OSU Football and Basketball games.

Q: I saw that you officially opened for business on February 5th. How have the first three weeks in operation been going for you?

A: It has been well received. The biggest suprise has been the number of “Thank you for opening here” and number of compliments we have received. I knew that I would like coming to a place like this, but I didn’t know how others would respond to it. It’s a great feeling.

Q: Are there any places outside of your brewpub that your beers are available?

A: Right now our Blonde is available at the Buckeye Lake Yacht Club and we plan on selling it soon at the Buckeye Lake Pizza Cottage.

Q: Any other big growth plans for 2012?

A: We are very excited to introduce new beers and become a part of the community. We plan to offer keg sales to the public and expect our “growlers to go” to be popular to visitors to the lake this summer.

More information can be found online at BuckeyeLakeBrewery.com.