Clay Rahmberg

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What’s your current position at your brewery, and how did you get started in the craft brewing industry?

I’m the general manager at Middleton Brewing in San Marcos, Texas. I got my start eight years ago bartending, and fell in love with good beer. My step-brother invited me to join his drinking group at the local brewpub, Middleton Brewing. I had recently graduated and was working three jobs to make ends meet. Middleton Brewing was in the process of expanding from a 1/2 bbl system to a newly built location hosting a 10 bbl brew system. They needed someone to do marketing and sales, so I raised my hand. I busted my ass for a year doing self-distribution, creating and promoting events at the brewery, and hucking kegs to local accounts in the back of my truck.

What’s new at Middleton Brewing?

New stuff is happening every day. We recently expanded our barrel program, implemented a Crowler machine, now offer six-packs to go, and continue to be an event location in the Hill Country. We recently added new partners to the company who have brought fresh new ideas to keep things from getting stale. It’s all about keeping it fresh, fun, and entertaining.

What’s the best part of being a part of the craft brewing community?

The people in this business are some of the best people I’ve ever worked with. Rarely do you work in an industry where people are so involved, enthusiastic, and in love with the product they sell. I have bartenders come in and work on their day off just because they enjoy being a part of something they’re proud to represent.

Name a favorite food and beer pairing.

I like our Pepperhead IPA (American IPA with jalape os) with chips and salsa. Being from San Antonio, chips and salsa is in our blood.

What’s your favorite beer that your brewery does not produce?

Right now I’m a big fan of Electric Jellyfish from Pinthouse Pizza in Austin, Texas. It’s a hoppy, juicy IPA bomb.

What’s the most memorable travel destination at which you’ve had a chance to sample the local beer?

I always enjoy going to GABF. I really dig the Denver beer scene. The Wynkoop was pretty memorable for me just because of the history behind it, but I think the coolest place has to be Falling Rock purely because of the offerings they’re able to get their hands on that no one else has.

What do you like to do in your time away from the brewery?

I enjoy spending time with my girlfriend and our two dogs, Pinky and Billie. The only day we share off is Sunday, so we’re always on the hunt for the best brunch. When the weather is good, the San Marcos River in a tube can’t be beat.


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