Pure Michigan Pints

Schmohz Brewing Company

Grand Rapids, Michigan

When asking about overlooked breweries in the Grand Rapids area, Schmohz immediately came to many people’s minds. I have visited before—back in the early 2010s (either 2011 or 2012 more than likely), so it’s been well over thirteen years. And, if I’m honest with myself, I forgot this place existed. The brewery opened as Schmohz in 2004 and is Grand Rapid’s second oldest brewery.

Be warned (as was I): this place is NOT going to look shnazzy. In fact, it looks like a complete dive and is reminiscent of the shitty dive bars I grew up going to in my earlier 20s. (I’m from Muskegon, a.k.a Dive Bar Capital of the world.) These were bars that everyone went to before the emergence of craft beer took hold.

Beer Variety—5/5

Schmohz had a total of 15 beers on draft when I visited. They covered absolutely every realm in the areas of style: a wheat beer, a fruity beer, an IPA, a double IPA, even a black IPA, a stout, an amber, a Scotch ale and an ESB. I struggled picking five for a flight so opted to try seven of these beers. Of these seven samples, I could easily see myself drinking a pint of five of them (in 70+ degree weather I rarely find myself in the mood for a stout; and while the Scotch Ale was good and true to style, it’s one of my least favorite styles of beer).

I had to really debate which beer I wanted between the fruity wheat beer, the cream ale, the ESB, and the Black IPA.

Vibe—2.5/5

As stated, previously this has those dive bar vibes. It looks rough from the outside, like the building could possibly fall apart at any time. Upon entry you’ll notice a pool table. Old style chairs that don’t exactly look comfortable. To the side of the bar, a popcorn machine whose popcorn I would question. The bar itself is standard, but sometimes simple is best.

Service—5/5

The owner (one of them) gave me background information on the brewery, answered questions, and was more than helpful with the beer. He gave me some insider perspective on brewing and the industry as a whole.

Beer Quality—4/5

There were more than enough good beers here. Many of them fell in the realm of 4-6% beers, so not a lot of crazy bold beers, but they all hit exactly how they needed to. Treasure Chest ESB (5.6% abv) is award winning; I believe it. While not a style I have much experience with, this beer proved to be smooth and unique because it’s not one you find too often. The Black IPA was a nice reminder of this trend making a resurgence; I’ve always been a fan when done right (which Schmohz does). The fruit beers I vaguely remember from my visit a long time ago; they’re perfectly refreshing summertime bangers.

Food-N/A

Overall-Recommend

If you’re a snob about appearances and stuck up, this isn’t the place for you. To those actually seeking out good craft beer and understand what it’s all about give it a go. I’d shocked if you didn’t find at least one beer you not only liked but thought was badass.