The new batch
East Austin kolache shop crafts new small-batch brewery and taproom
UPDATE: A previous version of this article stated that the brewery would include a taproom. Instead of a separate room, the beers will be available on tap at the kolache shop next door.
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Since opening in August 2017, Batch Craft Beer & Kolaches has lived up to the two parts of its name, serving local brews and savory klobásníky and kolache (technically a kolache can only be filled with sweet fruits or cheeses).
Now, the East Austin eatery is looking to make the connection more intimate by brewing its own beer. On April 11, owners Noah and Josh Lit announced that Batch Brewery will open in June at 3218 Manor Rd., just a stone’s throw from the original location. The Batch bakeshop will act as the taproom where patrons can choose from 12 draft selections split between Batch and other craft breweries.
To help with the operation, the brothers have drafted John Snyder, formerly of Jester King, as head brewer and Heath Shuford to spearhead the IPA program. Via release, the team said they will brew approachable varieties like IPAs, barrel-aged sours, table bears, and culinary beers (a style made with and meant to be paired with food). A Cabernet barrel-aged saison and a hazy IPA will be the first releases.
“It was always a distant dream to brew our own beer until we met John Snyder. His beers inspired us to take the plunge,"said the Lits in a release. “We went with a smaller brewhouse to always keep the beers fresh, rotating, and only available in-house.”
Josh worked with Noah’s wife, Laura, a local artist, to design the space. The brewery will featuring two separate areas, a clean brewing room and a barrel room, dubbed The BugRoom, that will be stocked with puncheons (a larger barrel size), stainless steel drums, and other aging containers. Once open, Batch will offer tours of the floor.
Until then, the team is offering membership options and swag as part of a Kickstarter campaign through May 15. Perks include custom glassware, T-shirts, the opportunity to have a beer a day for life, and the chance to work with the team to develop a personalized beer.
Maybe someone will bring it full circle and make a beer inspired by the ingredients in a Batch kolache.
