Small brewpubs referred to as nano-breweries (or sometimes pico-breweries or bucket breweries) are becoming more common in the United States and compose a new and increasingly popular trend in the craft brewing world.  These breweries usually don’t brew more than one batch at a time and have limited distribution (often just at the brewery or brewpub), taking the concept of producing and drinking craft beer locally to the microcosmic level.  Chattahoochee Brewing Company is a perfect example of this nano-brewpub trend.

Chattahoochee Brewing Company opened in February 2013 and is in Phenix City, AL – just across the Chattahoochee River from Columbus, GA.  Owner/brewer Derrell Winowich‘s stated goal is to “brew the finest beer possible and become best friends with our local customers and travelers from all over.” 

Brewer Derrell Winowich and wife Janice ensure your visit to Chattahoochee Brewing Company is fun and relaxing.
Brewer Derrell Winowich and wife Janice ensure your visit to Chattahoochee Brewing Company is fun and relaxing.

In addition, a small but impressive selection of craft beers from guest breweries (including other Alabama breweries) are available to ensure variety in great beer.  An on-line digital beer menu provides their current lineup of beers.

You can check out the current beer menu at Chattahoochee Brewing Company on-line.
You can check out the current beer menu at Chattahoochee Brewing Company on-line.

My daughter and I visited Chattahoochee Brewing Company in October 2013.  Upon entering, we were greeted by everyone (staff and patrons).  During our entire visit, both staff and customers were friendly and engaging.  Within 10 minutes, I felt like a long-time regular.

I immediately asked to sample any and all Chattahoochee Brewing beers and discovered one of the pitfalls of nano-breweries – sometimes their own beer is not available.  However, a nice selection of beers from other Alabama breweries was available, allowing me to be introduced to excellent beers from Yellowhammer Brewing, Below the Radar Brewhouse, Avondale Brewing, and Straight to Ale Brewing.

The atmosphere at Chattahoochee Brewing is relaxing and friendly.  Ceiling tile art created by patrons add a unique local flair.

Ceiling tiles become works of art created by local patrons.
Decorated by local patrons, ceiling tiles are transformed into works of art.
Staring at this tile will take you back in time to the 1960's.
Staring at this tile will take you back in time to the 1960’s.
I'll have another beer please!
I’ll have another beer please!

Derrell’s enthusiasm for brewing and knowledge of beer is obvious and contagious.  Chattahoochee Brewing Company is definitely an Alabama oasis for quality craft beers – especially Alabama craft beers.  This oasis has become a must stop for me anytime I’m in the area.  Thanks Derrell and Janice for making my stop so enjoyable!