Madison’s first “nanobrewery” of the modern craft era was the aptly named One Barrel Brewing Co., which opened in July 2012. Founder and brewer Peter Gentry had a vision of creating small-batch, handcrafted beers that showcased the artistry and creativity of brewing. With a focus on quality, innovation, and community, One Barrel quickly became a beloved institution in Madison’s vibrant craft beer scene.
Peter Gentry’s journey into the world of brewing began with a deep passion for beer and a desire to create unique and flavorful brews. He honed his brewing skills through years of homebrewing, experimenting with different recipes and techniques. Inspired by the growing craft beer movement and the possibility of starting his own brewery, Gentry took the leap and opened One Barrel.
One Barrel distinguished itself from other breweries in Madison by its small-scale production. Instead of aiming for mass distribution, Gentry focused on brewing small batches of beer using a one-barrel system. This allowed him to have complete control over the brewing process, ensuring the highest quality and attention to detail in every batch. The nanobrewery concept also meant that One Barrel Brewing Co. could constantly rotate its beer selection, offering customers a diverse and ever-changing lineup of brews.
From the moment it opened its doors, One Barrel Brewing Co. captured the hearts of Madison beer enthusiasts. The cozy taproom, adorned with wooden accents and brewing equipment, provided an intimate and welcoming space for patrons to enjoy their handcrafted beers. Gentry’s dedication to his craft was evident in every pint, and customers flocked to the brewery to experience the unique flavors and aromas that One Barrel had to offer.
One of the standout aspects of One Barrel was its commitment to experimentation and innovation. Gentry constantly pushed the boundaries of traditional brewing, infusing his beers with unconventional ingredients and flavors. From fruit-infused ales to barrel-aged stouts, each beer was a testament to Gentry’s creativity and willingness to take risks. This approach resonated with Madison’s adventurous beer drinkers, who eagerly awaited each new release to see what One Barrel had in store.
In addition to its innovative beers, One Barrel also fostered a strong sense of community. Gentry and his team made it a priority to engage with their customers, listening to feedback and incorporating their input into the brewing process. The brewery regularly hosted events, such as beer tastings and educational workshops, where beer enthusiasts could deepen their knowledge and appreciation for craft brewing. One Barrel also collaborated with local businesses and organizations, further strengthening its ties to the community.
As the popularity of One Barrel grew, so did the demand for its beers. The nanobrewery model, while allowing for flexibility and creativity, presented challenges in meeting the increasing customer demand. To address this, Gentry turned to Madison’s House of Brews for help brewing before becoming a client of Octopi Brewing in Waunakee for bottle releases.
In May 2019, Peter Gentry, the owner of One Barrel, purchased a 4,000-square-foot building located at 4633 Market St. in Egg Harbor planning to recreate the successful concept of his nanobrewery cozy pub atmosphere from the Atwood neighborhood in this new location.
Before settling on Egg Harbor Gentry explored various options for expansion, considering areas like Madison’s west side, Milwaukee, and the Fox Valley. However, none of these locations seemed to fit until he stumbled upon the Egg Harbor building while attending a nearby beer festival with his wife.
The building underwent a complete transformation, taking on a charming Cape Cod-style appearance with wooden shingles. The interior decor mirrors the pub ambiance of the Atwood location. However, one notable difference is the addition of an outdoor beer garden and patio seating, accommodating over 200 patrons, which will showcase the vacation atmosphere and coastal feel of Door County, especially during the summertime.
The Egg Harbor One Barrel will feature its own one-barrel brewing system, allowing them to continue brewing their signature craft beers on-site. To cater to the culinary needs of the patrons, an on-site kitchen will be operated by the popular Wild Tomato pizzeria, which is based in Sister Bay and Fish Creek
One Barrel’s success also had a ripple effect on Madison’s craft beer scene. It inspired a new wave of nanobreweries and small-scale operations, each with its own unique approach to brewing. The brewery’s emphasis on quality, innovation, and community set a standard for excellence that other aspiring brewers sought to emulate. Madison’s craft beer culture flourished as a result, with a growing number of local breweries offering a diverse range of high-quality beers.
One Barrel holds a special place in Madison’s craft beer history. As the city’s first nanobrewery of the modern craft era, it paved the way for a new generation of brewers and beer enthusiasts. Founder and brewer Peter Gentry’s dedication to quality, innovation, and community created a unique experience for patrons, who eagerly awaited each new release and celebrated the artistry of craft brewing. One Barrel remains a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and a pint of handcrafted beer.
