The Referend Bier Blendery

The Referend Bier Blendery: A Wild-Fermented Sanctuary in Kutztown, PA

Nestled in the heart of Kutztown, Pennsylvania, The Referend Bier Blendery has carved out a distinctive niche among American craft breweries. Specializing in wild-fermented, barrel-aged sour and lambic beers, this industrial-chic blendery offers an immersive experience for adventurous palates, keen learners, and anyone who appreciates the artistry behind truly spontaneous fermentation.

Crafted for Quality and Creativity

From the moment you step into The Referend Bier Blendery’s rustic tasting room, it’s clear that quality is paramount. Guests consistently praise the brewery’s “amazing beer for people who truly appreciate beer!” Each release is a testament to the owners’ dedication to craft: barrels are hand-selected, wild cultures are nurtured, and each batch undergoes weeks or months of careful aging. Among the standout offerings is “Gloria,” a zesty golden ale brightened by subtle citrus notes—“Gloria was perfect,” raved one visitor. Equally impressive is the Ice-nine Riesling, a delicate, floral golden ale that defies expectations: “Definitely not what I expected from a golden ale,” noted a delighted guest.

A Sour Lover’s Paradise (…with an Acquired Taste)

The Referend Bier Blendery is unapologetically focused on sour beers, making it a destination for aficionados who crave complexity and depth. “If sour style isn’t your jam then you might find better options elsewhere,” admits one review, highlighting the polarizing nature of a sour-only menu. Yet for those who relish puckering, wild-fermented flavors—“some of the highest quality spontaneous sour ales in the US”—every glass is a revelation. There are no IPAs or light lagers here; instead, you’ll explore dry-hopped lambics, barrel-aged gueuzes, and fruited sours that evolve sip by sip.

A Warm Welcome by James & Melissa

Behind every great brewery is a passionate team, and at Referend, co-owners James and Melissa lead the way. Their personalized tours are legendary, offering guests an insider’s view of the blendery’s barrel cellar, wooden vinegar carboys, and creative blending techniques. “Melissa made us feel right at home and answered all of our questions about the processes they use to brew,” shared one visitor. More than just educators, James & Missy have a gift for connecting with each guest, explaining the science of wild yeast with humor and hospitality. Their genuine enthusiasm creates an environment where even novice beer explorers feel empowered to experiment.

Rustic Ambiance with Vinyl Vibes

The industrial charm of The Referend Bier Blendery is amplified by a lovingly curated vinyl-only soundtrack. Jazz, neo-jazz, and other eclectic grooves spin from a vintage turntable, transforming the tasting room into a sensory retreat. “Nice touch that they had great music being played off a turntable! Yes—real vinyl records,” enthused one patron, while another admitted, “The music was bizarre,” capturing the blendery’s willingness to defy convention. Exposed brick walls, repurposed wood beams, and self-guided displays detailing the fermentation journey complete the immersive setting—but we’ll let you decide whether you’re drawn to its “hipsterish” edge or its authentic character.

Comfortable Spaces, Indoor and Out

Whether you crave a quiet corner or an open-air seat, The Referend Bier Blendery delivers. The spacious tasting room invites you to linger over a flight of small pours, while the outdoor patio offers fresh air and a front-row view of passing trains. “Amazing beers and the outdoor atmosphere is so relaxing. Love it when the train comes by in the distance,” noted one fan. Inside, tables are thoughtfully spaced to encourage conversation without feeling cramped; outside, communal benches beckon new friendships forged over shared sours.

Pricing & Value: Craft at a Premium

Transforming raw grain, wild cultures, and oak barrels into balanced, nuanced beers is a labor of love—and the pricing reflects that craftsmanship. While some guests mention that $9 for a 10-ounce cask pour can feel “pretty pricey,” most agree that the singular flavor experiences justify the cost. Consider flights or bottle purchases to sample multiple expressions without committing to a large pour. For many, the chance to taste spontaneous fermentation at its finest is well worth a modest splurge.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re a seasoned sour devotee or a curious newcomer, The Referend Bier Blendery in Kutztown, PA promises an unforgettable detour from mainstream beer culture. Expect to explore inventive blends like lemon-drop witbiers, seasonal fruit sours, and elegantly aged lambics, all served in an environment that champions education, authenticity, and community. Warm hospitality, vinyl grooves, and a welcoming space—inside and out—round out the blendery’s appeal.

Ready to experience “some of the highest quality spontaneous sour ales in the US”? Bring an open mind, an appetite for tang, and perhaps a friend who loves to debate whether jazz or neo-jazz sets the perfect backdrop for sour beer. At The Referend Bier Blendery, every sip tells a story—wild, unpredictable, and entirely rewarding.