Craft Beer
A Brewing Journey: From Rapids to New Zealand's Shores
2025-04-10

The essence of tranquility and adventure blends seamlessly in the story of Eddyline Brewery. This tale begins with a couple's love for kayaking, leading them to find serenity in the calm waters after navigating turbulent rapids. It mirrors their journey from geology studies to brewing beer, eventually setting roots in an unexpected locale—Nelson, New Zealand.

At its core, Eddyline Brewery’s inception is steeped in a blend of personal experiences and entrepreneurial spirit. The founders, Michiel and Molley Heynekamp, initially envisioned a brewery rooted in Colorado but found themselves drawn to New Zealand by its natural beauty and untapped potential in craft beer. Upon arriving, they were struck by the resemblance between Colorado and this island nation, except for the added allure of coastal views. However, one glaring difference stood out—the absence of craft beer culture. This void became an opportunity, sparking their decision to bring American-style IPAs and other brews to Kiwi shores.

Beyond the beers, Eddyline stands as a testament to resilience and adaptability. Transitioning from using imperial measurements in the U.S. to metric systems in New Zealand was no small feat. Yet, each challenge was approached with enthusiasm and creativity. For instance, Amigo, an amber lager inspired by summer barbecues back home, not only resonated personally with the founders but also catered to local tastes. Similarly, CrankYanker, a staple on their menu, evolved from humble homebrew beginnings into a modern West Coast IPA celebrated for its balance of maltiness and hop character.

Eddyline Brewery’s journey exemplifies how passion can lead to extraordinary outcomes. By bridging cultures through shared experiences like enjoying a cold brew after outdoor adventures, Michiel and Molley have created something truly special. Their commitment extends beyond crafting exceptional beverages; it includes prioritizing sustainability practices such as reducing water usage and capturing CO2 emissions. Thus, every sip represents more than just great taste—it embodies exploration, innovation, and respect for our planet. Through their endeavors, they remind us that life's best moments often occur when we step outside comfort zones and embrace new horizons, much like finding peace within an eddy after conquering wild rapids.

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