Oyster Bay Brewing Company, founded by owners Gabe Haim and Ryan Schlotter in 2012, is the product of a love for fine beer and their home of Long Island. The doors to the brewery officially opened on May 1, and a grand opening celebration took place on Sunday, July 14, to provide samples of their craft to the public.
It was during college that Haim and Schlotter developed a love of beer; not the type of unique beer they brew and enjoy today, but the kind that was cheap and readily available. In the years following their graduation Haim and Schlotter began to sample new types. With each new beer they tried, they became more aware of the varied flavors and aromas out there.
In 2007, while on a family vacation to Pensacola Beach, FL, Haim was introduced to the possibility of home brewing. His wife’s cousin, Kevin Matalucci, Head Brewmaster at The Broad Ripple Brew Pub, stocked the fridge at their rental with beer that he personally brewed. He brought with him an IPA, a Hefeweizen, and a few others in growlers for them to drink. It was so fresh and had such great flavor, Haim became obsessed with the idea of brewing his own diverse and flavorful beers.
After Schlotter and Haim purchased their own home brewing kit, they never turned back. At this point, they knew what they wanted to do and that was to share their passion for beer with everyone. Their goal is to create the best product; something that they can enjoy along with everyone who likes beer. This was the start of Oyster Bay Brewing Company.
Both owners grew up on the Gold Coast and are avid Long Island history buffs. Whether it’s the tales of American political heroes like Teddy Roosevelt, musical legends like Billy Joel, or the hardworking industrial men who labored on this land, there is so much to be learned and admired. The owners of the brewery are just as eager to share our history as they are one of their refreshing beers.
“We are dedicated to producing the highest quality beer while staying true to our nautical history here on the Gold Coast,” Haim says.
