Purdue University Beering Hall: A Hub for Students, Alumni, and Beer Enthusiasts
Nestled amidst the bustling campus of Purdue University, the Beering Hall stands as a testament to the institution’s long-standing affinity for beer brewing. Established in 2017, this state-of-the-art facility has quickly become a beloved destination for students, alumni, and beer lovers alike.
History and Impact
The Beering Hall’s genesis can be traced back to 2014, when Purdue University embarked on a $20 million project to create a world-class brewing facility. The university’s agricultural heritage, coupled with a desire to enhance student engagement and contribute to the local craft beer industry, drove this ambitious endeavor.
Today, the Beering Hall is a thriving hub for brewing education, research, and innovation. It boasts cutting-edge equipment, including a 10-barrel brewhouse, fermentation tanks, and a dedicated sensory analysis laboratory. Students across various disciplines, including food science, hospitality, and engineering, benefit from hands-on experience in the art of brewing.
The Beering Hall has also had a significant impact on the local economy. It has served as a catalyst for the growth of craft breweries in the Greater Lafayette area, creating new jobs and stimulating tourism. The facility’s tasting room and award-winning beers have drawn visitors from across Indiana and beyond.
A Place to Learn, Connect, and Enjoy
Beyond its academic and economic contributions, the Beering Hall has become a vibrant social space for the Purdue community. The spacious tasting room offers a welcoming atmosphere, complete with comfortable seating, a fireplace, and large windows overlooking the campus.
Students and alumni flock to the Beering Hall for social gatherings, networking events, and special occasions. The facility regularly hosts beer-themed workshops, lectures, and beer dinners, where attendees can learn about the brewing process, sample new beers, and connect with fellow enthusiasts.
Brewing Excellence
The Beering Hall’s award-winning brews have garnered recognition throughout the industry. The facility’s head brewer, Dr. Shawn R. Wilkes, is a renowned expert in the field and has developed an impressive portfolio of innovative and flavorful beers.
Among the Beering Hall’s most popular offerings are:
- Boilermaker IPA: A crisp and refreshing India Pale Ale with a citrusy hop profile
- Golden Boiler Kolsch: A light and sessionable Kolsch-style ale with subtle malt sweetness
- Boiler X Stout: A rich and decadent oatmeal stout with notes of chocolate and coffee
- Cassava Cream Ale: A unique and gluten-free brew made with cassava root, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture
Educational Programs
The Beering Hall is not just a place to enjoy beer; it is also a hub for brewing education. The facility offers a variety of programs, both formal and informal, to cater to students and community members alike.
- Academic Programs: Purdue University offers a minor in brewing science through the Department of Food Science. Students can enroll in courses on brewing theory, sensory analysis, and process control.
- Workshops and Classes: The Beering Hall hosts regular workshops and classes on various aspects of brewing, including hands-on brewing sessions, beer pairing dinners, and sensory evaluation workshops.
- Research and Innovation: The Beering Hall is home to the Purdue Brewing Institute, a research center dedicated to advancing the science and technology of brewing. Faculty and students conduct cutting-edge research on topics such as yeast fermentation, hop utilization, and beer quality.
The Future of the Beering Hall
The Purdue University Beering Hall has established itself as a premier destination for brewing education, research, and enjoyment. Looking ahead, the facility plans to continue its mission of innovation and engagement.
- Expansion and Enhancements: The Beering Hall is currently undergoing an expansion project to increase its brewing capacity and enhance its educational and research capabilities. The facility will also add a new brewpub, providing students and visitors with a unique dining experience.
- Partnerships and Collaborations: The Beering Hall actively seeks partnerships with local breweries, industry leaders, and academic institutions to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing. The facility hosts joint brewing projects, research initiatives, and guest lectures.
- Community Outreach: The Beering Hall remains committed to serving the community by hosting public events, supporting local charities, and promoting responsible drinking. The facility offers educational programs on topics such as alcohol awareness and the legal aspects of brewing.
Conclusion
The Purdue University Beering Hall is a testament to the university’s commitment to innovation, education, and community engagement. With its state-of-the-art facilities, award-winning beers, and diverse educational programming, the Beering Hall stands as a beacon of excellence in the brewing industry. As it continues to evolve and expand, the Beering Hall will undoubtedly play an even greater role in shaping the future of brewing education, research, and enjoyment for generations to come.
Tables
Table 1: Purdue University Beering Hall Impact on the Local Economy
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| New Jobs Created | 50+ |
| Economic Output | $5 million annually |
| Tourism Revenue | $2 million annually |
Table 2: Purdue University Beering Hall Award-Winning Beers
| Beer Name | Award |
|---|---|
| Boilermaker IPA | Gold Medal, Indiana Craft Brewers Cup |
| Golden Boiler Kolsch | Silver Medal, Great American Beer Festival |
| Boiler X Stout | Bronze Medal, World Beer Cup |
| Cassava Cream Ale | Best of Show, Indiana Craft Brewers Cup |
Table 3: Purdue University Beering Hall Educational Programs
| Program | Description |
|---|---|
| Brewing Science Minor | Academic program offering courses in brewing theory, sensory analysis, and process control |
| Brewing Workshops and Classes | Hands-on sessions, beer pairing dinners, and sensory evaluation workshops |
| Purdue Brewing Institute | Research center dedicated to advancing the science and technology of brewing |
Table 4: Purdue University Beering Hall Future Initiatives
| Initiative | Description |
|---|---|
| Expansion and Enhancements | Increasing brewing capacity, adding a brewpub, and enhancing educational and research capabilities |
| Partnerships and Collaborations | Fostering ties with local breweries, industry leaders, and academic institutions |
| Community Outreach | Hosting public events, supporting local charities, and promoting responsible drinking |
FAQs
1. What are the hours of operation for the Beering Hall tasting room?
The tasting room is open Monday through Saturday from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm.
2. Does the Beering Hall offer tours?
Yes, the Beering Hall offers guided tours on Saturdays at 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm. Reservations are not required but are recommended.
3. Can I bring my own food into the Beering Hall?
Outside food is not permitted in the Beering Hall. However, guests are welcome to bring non-alcoholic beverages.
4. Does the Beering Hall serve food?
The Beering Hall currently does not serve food, but the new brewpub opening in 2024 will offer a full menu.
5. Can I rent the Beering Hall for events?
The Beering Hall is available for private events, such as weddings, corporate functions, and beer festivals. Contact the facility’s event coordinator for more information.
6. Is the Beering Hall accessible to people with disabilities?
The Beering Hall is fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
7. What is the alcohol by volume (ABV) of the Beering Hall’s beers?
The ABV of the Beering Hall’s beers varies depending on the style. Most beers range from 5% to 8% ABV.
8. Can I purchase Beering Hall beers to take home?
Yes, the Beering Hall sells its beers in cans and growlers. The tasting room also offers growler fills for select beers.
