I first sampled Goose Island IPA at 30,000 feet. While I enjoyed the taste, I realized that Goose Island Beer Co.’s place on that airline’s drink cart was likely due to the backing of its owner, Anheuser-Busch (AB InBev). In fact, Goose Island is one of many brands under the AB InBev umbrella, an acquisition that shocked many craft beer enthusiasts back in 2011.

Goose Island was founded by John Hall in 1988 as a brewpub in Lincoln Park, Chicago, during a pivotal time in the craft beer movement. Inspired by European beer traditions, Hall opened a full-scale brewery in 1995, and the business expanded over the years. By 2006, increased investments helped Goose Island branch out internationally, leading to its acquisition by AB InBev in 2011. This conglomerate also owns major brands like Budweiser, Corona, and Stella Artois.

Despite its history of change, Goose Island maintains a strong lineup of beers, including its flagship IPA, which remains popular among craft beer aficionados. The brewery is also known for its Bourbon County Brand stout, marketed as the "world’s first bourbon barrel-aged beer," despite debates over its origins and claims. Their offerings have since diversified into several barrel-aged variants.

Classic brews like Full Pocket Pilsner, 312 Wheat Ale, and the original Honker’s Ale, which premiered at the brewpub in 1988, still sell well today. Inspired by its European roots, Goose Island also offers beers like King Henry II Barrel-Aged English-Style Barleywine and Belgian-style ales including Sofie Saison and Grand Cru Belgian Strong Ale.

The notion of Goose Island "selling out" hasn’t deterred fans; the brewery holds a respectable rating of 3.9 on Untappd, even outperforming independent Sierra Nevada by a hair. Many beer enthusiasts feel the quality has endured, even under larger ownership. The beer community remains supportive, with discussions emphasizing enjoyment over corporate affiliations.

The craft beer industry is facing challenges, with more breweries closing than opening recently, contrasting sharply with prior years’ booms. For some, aligning with a major brewer may seem like compromising artistry, but for others, it provides stability and a platform for growth. Enjoying a Goose Island IPA, whether on a plane or at home, signifies that quality often transcends ownership.

For more insights, you can read the original article on Tasting Table.