From brewing 100-litre batches beneath a 16th-century pub to building a thriving modern brewery and taproom, this episode dives deep into the journey of Abyss Brewing with founders Andrew and Andy.
We explore how a passion for hoppy beers, inspired by early UK craft pioneers and US influences, turned into a business built on creativity, community, and constant evolution. Starting under The Pelham Arms in Lewes, Abyss Brewing grew through experimentation, self-funding, and a relentless focus on quality.
The conversation covers the realities of scaling a brewery, from the leap into larger production and navigating cash flow challenges, to the unexpected impact of COVID-19, which pushed the team into canning, direct-to-consumer sales, and building a loyal local following.
Andrew and Andy also share insights into:
Their brewing philosophy and how it’s evolved over time
Why water chemistry is crucial to great beer
The role of collaborations in pushing creativity
How taprooms and community drive independent brewery success
Trends shaping UK craft beer, from hazy IPAs to the rise of lagers
Plus, we get into beer naming, brewery culture (including collaboration day “standards”), and what’s next for Abyss Brewing including festivals, new styles, and future expansion.
If you’re into craft beer, brewing, or the business behind it, this episode is packed with insight, honesty, and a proper look behind the scenes of a modern independent brewery.
Featured beers include: Dank Marvin IPA, Super Fuzz, Tropical Thunder, and more.
Watch more at https://beerrepchats.com
Abyss Links
Website: https://abyssbrewing.co.uk
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/abyssbrewing
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abyssbrewing
UnTappd: https://untappd.com/ABYSSBrewing
Chapters
00:00 - 01:37 Introduction to Abyss Brewing
01:38 - 06:03 The Journey to Brewing Passion
06:04 - 10:44 Navigating Growth and Challenges
10:45 - 17:23 Defining Abyss Brewing's Identity
17:24 - 19:42 The Importance of Collaboration
19:43 - 23:02 The Brewing Process: Inspiration and Ingredients
23:03 - 26:24 Evolving Brewing Philosophies
26:25 - 30:31 Challenges in the UK Beer Market
30:32 - 33:52 The Importance of Community and Tap Rooms
33:53 - 36:31 Future Plans and Innovations
36:32 - 39:38 Signature Beers and Creative Naming
39:38 - Final Words from Abyss
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