When Gene Muller founded Flying Fish Brewing Co. in 1995, he did so first on the World Wide Web — making it the world’s first virtual microbrewery. That early web site helped generate positive press coverage and helped attract the investors needed to make the virtual brewery a reality. Muller said the idea was to make the web site “This Old House meets the World Wide Web” — letting people go behind the taps and see the thousands of details needed to put a craft microbrewery together.
Flying Fish is located in New Jersey, a state that once boasted 50 breweries — and by the end of this year, may once again boast that number. Flying Fish was the first microbrewery in southern NJ, and the first new brewery built in that part of the state in more than half a century. From its opening in late 1996, Flying Fish has increased its capacity more than 20 times and has become the largest of the ever-growing number of the state’s craft breweries.
In 2012, it moved from its original location in Cherry Hill to the new facility in Somerdale. It boasts many sustainability features, brewing beer in the most environmentally-friendly way possible.
Featured Beer from Flying Fish Brewery: Abbey Dubbel & Red Fish Red Ale
BELGIAN-STYLE ABBEY DUBBEL — Flying Fish’s Abbey Dubbel: This complex ale boasts interwoven flavors that deliver malt in the middle, with a dry almond finish complete with a slight alcohol warmth. Nearly a wine, it has a lot of the qualities of a fine Burgundy. Serve with smoked and very rich foods, cheeses and sushi. (The sweetness in this top-fermented beer pairs incredibly well with the saltiness in select foods.)
RED ALE — Flying Fish’s Red Fish Red Ale: Usually subtle in flavor, Red Ales are made with lots of lager-style hops. The red color comes from Crystal malt, crystallized and caramelized before being added to the brew. Enjoy with beef brisket, burgers, grilled pork.
