With phrases like Catahoula Common, Canebrake, Voodoo Bengal, Pontchartrain, Kingfish and Jockamo, no one would fault you for thinking you’re reading a list of distinctly Louisiana culture and history. However, these names belong to beers made by craft breweries based in South Louisiana.
In its latest issue, Business Report notes that the number of craft breweries in Louisiana has increased sizably in recent years, reflecting a growing demand for local, innovative beers. Between 2011 and 2014, seven new craft breweries opened in Louisiana, bringing the total to 15 statewide. Eleven of these are in South Louisiana.
Despite its recent growth, Louisiana’s craft beer industry still lags behind the rest of the country. The state ranks No. 42 for its number of craft breweries; the ranking falls to No. 49—ahead only of Mississippi—for craft breweries per capita, including only adults 21 and over.
Still, the state’s fledgling industry already contributes to the state’s economy. Craft breweries sell a local product, employ local people, use local vendors and attract visitors to the Pelican State. In 2012, Louisiana’s craft beer industry had an economic impact of $462.2 million and employed 3,838 people, ranking it No. 30 nationally in economic impact per capita, according to the Brewers Association.
An interest in local and regional products also contributes to the industry’s success in the state. “In Louisiana, we are very much locavores,” says Andrew Godley, who established Parish Brewing Company in Broussard, near Lafayette. “People are very proud of what comes from Louisiana. There’s such a strong cultural identity. People know what’s made here and they support it.”
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