On Tap: Sonoma County Hops and The Beer Revolution

A fascinating exhibit currently on view at the Museum of Sonoma County is called On Tap: Sonoma County Hops and The Beer Revolution.

In 1977, using discarded dairy tanks and other cast-off equipment, New Albion Brewery started making beer in the town of Sonoma, launching the first modern microbrewery in the United States. Today, we take microbreweries and world-class beer for granted and every year, thousands of people descend on Sonoma County for the release of internationally renowned beers. This well-organized exhibition explores the revolutionary beginnings of the county’s microbreweries that date back to the 19th century’s rich legacy of local hop culture, and brings you up to date with your favorite local breweries.

You’ll see models of the lovely hop-drying kilns and a historic collection of beer bottles and tools of the trade.

On Tap will remain on view through September 1st at the Museum of Sonoma County, on Seventh Street in Santa Rosa.