Brasserie & Distillerie Artisanale 87
About Us

Before moving to France in 2005 I was a keen home brewer and had also worked for two large breweries, Bass and Tetleys. I arrived here with hopes of discovering some wonderful beers but, at the time, the beer scene was to say the least, very limited.

There was nothing to grab the attention or hold the interest of someone used to a wider selection of beer styles than the vague, non-descript blondes, ambers and browns (descriptors more suited to hair dyes than beers) that were available. I longed for a fresh, hoppy pale ale or a smooth, roasty stout.

So, with less time being devoted to renovating our house, in 2008 I started brewing my own beer again. Finally I had the beers I enjoyed and rediscovered my passion for brewing.

Over time I began taking bottles to soirées at our French neighbours and friends homes. They were well received and it was suggested I offer them for sale. I wasn't sure, I dreaded the potential admin that must be required to start a brewery but I began doing some homework. It was surprisingly straightforward and the douanes (customs) were very helpful.

In 2012 I decided to make brewing my profession and ArtiBrassage87 was founded. In 2018 a distillery was added, producing a range of gins and other spirits with Limousin Dry Gin winning silver medal at the International Wines & Spirits competition.

Personal events overcame things during late 2018 into 2020 and I lost my motivation for everything along with my passion for brewing. Then Covid-19 hit, everything ground to a halt and the brewing ceased totally. Four years on, it has taken me a while but I'm once again happy to be brewing beer. I'm currently adding or improving a few things in the brewery with a more accessible (not upstairs) area for customers and have plans for a small Gin School for people to come and distill their own bottle of gin.

The journey continues. Cheers for reading,

Steve.

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