Meet Matthew Steinberg, head brewer and co-founder of Exhibit ‘A’ Brewing Co.
Full Name? Matthew Steinberg
Your title? Co-Founder / Head Brewer
Brewery Name? Exhibit 'A' Brewing Co.
Brewery Location? 81 Morton Street Framingham, MA 01702
#1) What made you decide to get into the craft brewing industry?
As a college student I had a roommate that was already homebrewing and I immediately took to it. I found a passion within the process and the ingredients and it just felt right. Once I graduated, I had several opportunities in other industries, but brewing just kept calling me. My first brewing job solidified my desires to do this for a career and I haven't looked back since.
#2) Which of your beers do your customers enjoy the most and why?*
This is a tough one. We sell more of The Cat's Meow IPA than any of our other beers, but Goody Two Shoes, our Kolsch is always the one that people talk to me about. Brewers, bar owners, and our regulars definitely find our Kolsch to be one of the best available. People love this beer because it is crisp, clean and truly an authentic tribute to the style.
#3) What's your favorite thing about your brewery?*
The people. We have this wonderful diverse staff that all come from different lifestyles and communities. They make our place special and bring the energy, focus and kindness we all want in our workplaces, our local breweries and taprooms.
#4) Besides your own, what Massachusetts craft beers or breweries impress you the most and why? *
CraftRoots in Milford is that brewery for me. They are small and have an authentic approach to brewing. They use 100% local grains in their beers and continue to have a loyal following in their inviting taproom. Maureen and the team at CraftRoots impressed me from day one. Whether it was the warmth of their space, the positivity coming from the smiles off their staff and guests' faces, or the high quality beers they produce. Get yourselves to CraftRoots. You will certainly enjoy what they are doing in Milford.
#5) What’s a little known fact about you or your brewery that you think customers would get a kick out of? Something unique, funny or unusual?
Juggling... I love to juggle and used to juggle in the brewery often. A little too busy these days for that sort of nonsense though at work. I still use juggling as a way to relax after a long day at the brewery. It helps keep my mind focused and my hands and eyes at attention. Also, the number 42 shows up in all our labels and marketing material. It's the answer to the ultimate question.
#6) Where do you think craft beer is headed? What do you think craft brewing is going to look like five years from now?
The industry is flat. Breweries need to consider this as a very serious issue. We must stay ahead of the trends and continue to innovate. But innovation isn't just creating a new beer style. It's being smart with our decisions and making our places wonderful and positive work environments for our staff. Local ingredients!! We have now hit the moment when imported grains and local grains are about the same price. We have been using local grains from Valley Malt since day one and I am proud to see the pricing gap shrinking.
We think often about stability in our brewery. We work every day to create a brand that is exciting and will continue to find its way into peoples' homes. In five years I expect more innovation with regards to sustainability, with the use of local grains.