Brewpubs are often a new customer’s first experience with craft beer, and the 3-percent growth posted by the segment bodes well for craft beer’s rising star.

The smallest packagers have braved outrageous odds to triumph in the annals of percentages ripped and won, hard earned, from the legions of those who love beer.

As they raise a toast to a successful 2007, America’s regional craft breweries are eyeing the storm clouds on the horizon and taking prudent actions to ensure continued success.

It was a dynamic year in virtually every nook and cranny of the overall beer industry, particularly with the shakeups in the “big brewer” world.

Fueled by the industry’s 12-percent growth and an inspiring keynote address from Rich Doyle, the Craft Brewers Conference in San Diego April 17-19 was a time to celebrate.