Norwood, MA – Just one month after releasing its first beer into the Greater Boston market, Castle Island Brewing Company is already ramping up production to meet growing demand.
With the help of Massachusetts Beverage Alliance, Castle Island launched Candlepin, its flagship hoppy session ale, into broader distribution in early January. Shortly thereafter, the company introduced Keeper, a “new age” IPA brewed with Columbus, Simcoe and Cascade hops.
“People ask us all the time why we call it new age,” said president and founder, Adam Romanow. “We joke that we play Kenny G to the beer as it’s fermenting, but really we’re trying to highlight the fact that we’ve created an East Coast/West Coast hybrid that’s loaded with hop flavor but presents a more restrained bitterness to keep it smooth.”
Initial shipments of Keeper and Candlepin were quickly depleted, and the Norwood-based brewery is bringing in additional talent to bolster its production and sales capabilities.
Sam Puopolo, an experienced craft beer sales rep, was hired as the company’s first sales manager. Puopolo, who worked with the Sheehan Family Companies for the better part of the last decade, will be responsible for growing Castle Island’s accounts and providing support to existing retailers.
“Adding Sam to the team is a huge deal,” said Romanow. “He has built an excellent reputation based on a history of great customer service, and he gives us great presence in the market.”
To help the company prepare for future growth, Castle Island tapped two interim consultants — an industry-veteran cellarman and a seasoned QC & laboratory expert — who will help the company implement rigorous cellaring and packaging protocols and enhance its quality control processes. The company has also hired two packaging techs, as well as four dedicated tasting room team members who will manage retail operations previously led by production staff, family, and friends.
About Castle Island Brewing:
Castle Island is dedicated to crafting the highest quality beer with purpose and without pretense. With a focus on American ales, we make offerings that are both unique and approachable. Our singular goal is to brew distinctive beers that honor proven traditions and celebrate fresh ideas.
Located off Route 1, at 31 Astor Ave. in Norwood, Mass., Castle Island is currently operating on limited public visiting hours. The brewery is open for tastings, tours and purchases on Thursdays and Fridays from 3:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M and Saturdays from 12:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.