New Holland Brewing President Brett VanderKamp releases new book

This month Craft Brewing Business sat down with President Brett VanderKamp to discuss New Holland Brewing Co.’s wealth of India Pale Ales (its famous Hatter Series). There are few folks in America that understand the potential and pitfalls of brewing craft beer than VanderKamp and New Holland. In our interview, the company boiled its business plan down to a word — balance.

“I’m hesitant to give anyone advice about beer. So much of it really is trial and error,” VanderKamp said. “Those magical moments come when you have a vision and are actually able to execute it. But if I were going to put my advice cap on, I’d say play on the edges of what an IPA can be. Those were some of the best moments for us in the brewery — when we were playing around with the Hatter Series, tinkering with recipes, experiencing the hits and misses. For us, we challenge ourselves to push the boundaries, but to always seek balance. Balance is our absolute mantra around here. Finding that perfect tipping point, those are the moments that fuel a brewer.”

If you’re looking to learn more, readers will be pleased to know VanderKamp is set to release his first book, Art in Fermented Form: A Manifesto. The book, a collection of stories about VanderKamp’s experiences in the beer and spirits industry, his favorite historical anecdotes and some frank thoughts on the future of craft, will release to the public on Friday, May 3 (5:00-7:00 p.m.) at the New Holland Brewing Co. Restaurant & Pub’s newly-renovated beer garden (66. E. 8th Street, Holland, Mich.)

Specialty cocktails will be served and attendees will have the opportunity to be the first to purchase VanderKamp’s book at a discounted price and have it signed by the author. People who are a fan of New Holland’s beer and spirits and those who love the artistry of the craft industry are encouraged to join. There is no cost to attend.

VanderKamp founded New Holland Brewing Co. when he was just 24 years old with his best friend and $10,000. He believed that his hometown of Holland and the brewing industry were due for a shake up and since then, New Holland has delivered just that. The same passion for balance, creativity and artistry in brewing and distilling is found in VanderKamp’s very personal manifesto.

Note: In case of inclement weather, the book release party will take place inside the New Holland Brewing Co. Restaurant & Pub on the upstairs mezzanine.