Brian Sorensen
Change is in the air at West Mountain Brewing Company.
A few weeks ago brewer Will Gallaspy packed up his mash paddle and moved to Brooklyn, New York to become the head brewer for a regional contract brewery.
Gallaspy will certainly be missed. He had found his rhythm in West Mountain’s tiny brew house and was producing some really good beer. His IPA was particularly tasty as of late.
But not to worry, craft beer fans. Owner John Schmuecker has already hired a replacement.
Texas native Ryan Pickop was appointed new brewmaster at West Mountain just a few days ago. His resume includes a stint at Balcones Distilling in Waco, where he crafted single malt and blue corn whisky.
Pickop is also an accomplished musician. He plays a down-home style of music that should resonate with Northwest Arkansans. In fact, he recently made an appearance at the Fayetteville Roots Festival.
It will be a while before Pickop’s beer is on tap. There is a learning curve when a brewer starts using a new system, and the brewhouse at West Mountain is more than a little bit quirky. Fortunately, Gallaspy left a decent inventory of beer for folks to enjoy while Pickop gets up and running.
Look for the next iteration of West Mountain brews later this fall.
Brian Sorensen (@EBSorensen) is an admitted beer geek, occasional home brewer, and member of the Fayetteville Lovers of Pure Suds.
