Photo by Allan Wallace
When Allan Wallace opened Soul Brewing Company in March, the snug place represented “an intentionally different business model than other breweries,” he says. The beers he brews are made to be enjoyed in the taproom, and while people can buy 32-ounce cans and growlers to go, Soul Brewing is the only place right now to find the beer.
“When I decided to move from being a home brewer into opening a business, this is what I gravitated toward,” he explains. “I wanted to open something simple and close to home.”
Wallace’s goal is to have approximately a half-dozen beers available at all times, maxing out at 10. His three “regulars” are a Belgian Blonde Ale made with honey from Hudson River Apiaries in Cortlandt; a British-style Empire Pale Ale, brewed with New York hops and malt; and the El Tropical IPA, which Wallace describes as “hazy and creamy.”
There are seasonal and “experimental” beers in the rotation, as well. Wallace recently offered an oatmeal stout infused with cold-brewed coffee made from beans from neighboring Black Cow. In summer months, there are fruity goses (a sour wheat beer) to quaff. The tasting room provides an opportunity for customers to enjoy flights of beer to sample different styles.
There are a number of snacks being served along with the beer — Bavarian pretzels from Katonah’s LMNOP Bakery, empanadas from Croton’s Baked by Susan, and charcuterie and cheese from neighbor Second Mouse Cheese. “I love having a mom-and-pop-type of brewery here,” says Wallace. “And I’m glad to have the chance to pair with local, small production and artisanal shops that are doing the same types of things I’m doing here.”
Beer is available for pickup in 64-oz growlers and 32-oz cans Wednesday and Thursday, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 12 p.m. to 8 p.m, and Sunday, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Orders can be placed ahead by phone (914.800.7685) or e-mail (info@soulbrewingco.com) and will be ready for pickup at the front door, curbside. Delivery within Pleasantville is also offered.
At press time, the taproom remained closed to sit-down business, as mandated by the state.
