Shreveport Welcomes First Two New Craft Breweries Since Prohibition
In some ways, Shreveport is ahead of the curve. For example, back in 1908, a full twelve years before the U.S. Government Prohibition banned the sale, production, and transportation of alcohol, Caddo Parish passed it's own Prohibition laws. Shreveport's small, but thriving brewing industry was quashed.
Prohibition was repealed over 100 years ago, but the brewing industry never made a comeback in the Shreveport - Bossier area. Until now.
Within days of each other, two area companies have been granted licenses to brew. Red River Brewing and Great Raft Brewing are getting ready to begin production, and make Shreveport Louisiana's first city with two production breweries.
Great Raft - founded by Shreveport natives Andrew and Lindsay Nations - plans to begin production this week, with product available at several local establishments by Thanksgiving, and a tasting room open by the end of the year. Red River Brewing debuted at Shreveport Brew on October 19th.
I haven't had a chance to sample the beverages produced by either local brewery as of yet, but plan on hoisting a pint (or two) at the first opportunity! Anyone up for being designated driver?