Stop number three brought me to another brewery in Greenville, South Carolina called The Eighth State Brewing Company. Like me, most of you are probably thinking that is a reference to South Carolina becoming the eighth state to join the union. And you would be wrong just like me. It is instead an homage to the eight-circuit model of consciousness, a somewhat psychedelic and unique view of human neurological behavior, and used as a segue to try and change the perception of what a brewery can be. So grab a beer, relax, and join me on this trippy journey through another strong South Carolina brewery.
- Beer – Their approach to beer is an experiment at the fringe of what one would expect in a brewery, but that is not necessarily a bad thing. Much of their tap list is brewed with unusual ingredients and numerous collaborations, resulting in a refreshing and unique, if somewhat limited in styles, list of beers that is anything but usual. Despite the often disparate ingredients, I think they hit more than they missed with these combinations, and I wish I lived closer so I could sample more of their beers as they come out with new and interesting creations. Score: 3.5/5
- Brewery – This place is another excellent example of a working brewery folded around a tap room. As you walk up you will pass a small outdoor seating area, perfect for the evening hours when the sun has gone down. Step inside and the tap room will encompass the main floor, with all the brewing equipment off to one side so you can watch and enjoy the delicious smells that accompany brew day. A long bar sits at the back of the room (check out the neat custom-made tap handles!) with spacious communal tables occupying most of the room, along with a small section of more intimate couch seating. With wrap around windows the room is brightly lit with sun most of the day, creating a warm and inviting space to sit and drink. If you’re hungry they do offer a small menu of shareable plates, sandwiches, and pizzas. If beer isn’t your thing (why are you reading this then?) they have a small cocktail and wine list. One last thing: be sure to look up at all the empty beer and wine bottles running along the ceiling. It can be a fun game to figure out how many you have had. Score: 3.5/5
- Ambiance and Entertainment – Aside from hosting sports watching in the tap room, they offer lots of weekly and monthly events. Live music, bingo nights, bottle releases, and holiday themed parties have all appeared on their event schedule and sound like a blast. I didn’t see any board games or other outdoor games such as corn hole, but with the number of other things going on you probably won’t miss them. Score: 3.5/5
- Location – Just south of downtown, it was an easy and refreshing walk from my hotel to get there. The building is easy to find, and it is easy to tell which business the brewery is, even from the road. They have a decent sized parking lot if walking is not your thing, and within a few minutes, aside from downtown with all its accompanying restaurants and bars, is the local minor league baseball stadium offering another layer of entertainment for your visit. Score: 4/5
- Customer Service – I visited fairly early in the day, so I had time to chat with the bar tender and learn a little back story about the brewery and the neat tap handles they have. It was an enjoyable experience and I had no issues with my service. It looks like they don’t have much in the way of table service, so keep that in mind when needing refills of your drinks. Score: 3.5/5
Total Score: 18/25
Favorite Beer: Turn Off The Lights – 6% Sour
Final Thoughts: A delightful and delicious find in Greenville, I definitely recommend checking them out if you are in the area. They offer a unique approach to brewing and the beer experience, culminating in some very different creations. Next time I’m in the area I will be stopping by again to see what new varieties they have on tap
Brews Alert 