Update 10/7/24 Spencer Nix, CEO & Cofounder Reformation Brewery
“Thank you for the overwhelming support and donations. You not only helped us get tangible support to those in need affected by Helene, but also helped us cover all our costs for the water project and likely have helped us get a Foundation started to be even better stewards of your trust and generosity.
Due to the trust our community has given Reformation through these donations, I took a large delivery of donations and went up to Asheville, the airport, Biltmore Village, Hendersonville, and the Flat Rock area yesterday to get a better idea of how our support is being used and how best to move forward.
Our personal contacts, Brandi and Matt, are doing incredible work through their 30 years of local relationships and their produce distribution business relationships. They love their community well and take supplies to those with the least. Almost all the donations of our community have already been distributed to the area of need. From my experience with non-profit logistics amid disasters, that’s impressive and inspiring. From my assessment, it’s definitely the harder-to-reach places around Asheville that are still in the most dire need. While Asheville, and specifically the Arts District, looks devastated, I was pleasantly surprised with the rest of the downtown and how the orgs and FEMA are mobilized in the city.
Our venue can keep being a drop-off location for the supply list items only. I will coordinate taking supplies to Brandi and Matt as they request, and what they don’t need, we will get to other orgs doing work in response to the hurricane; Angel Flight and a group of pilots out of Gainesville are a few options.
List of accepted items: Water Diapers Formula Wipes Charcoal Non-perishable foods
As far as the water project, we will rely on Brandi and Matt to make requests, and we can run a pallet of water as we can find time. I’ve got volunteers who are able and willing to run it to them with very little notice.
Thank y’all again for being awesome and agile. Our collective efforts have done good things for people in real need. From experience, that’s not easy to do. A lot of charitable efforts are well-meaning, but only a fraction of the charity impacts the greatest needs. Our quick and precise efforts have accomplished what we had hoped, and I’m very proud of our community for coming together to meet this need.”
Update 10/4/24
Exporting a little hope is good for the soul. Shout out to Shane Hoover for the transport to Western Carolina today and to @zipcain and @servinternational for the pallets of MREs that provide 2 servings with one can of @reformationbrewery emergency drinking water. The generous and collaborative spirit of our community is truly remarkable. We are shipping donated items within hours of receiving them. We will continue for the next 48 hours and then reevaluate the need. We will take your donations throughout the weekend and add them to our water shipments to Flat Rock, NC, Augusta, Vidalia, and Valdosta (all on the schedule). Thank you again!
Update 10/3/24
We’re not done yet, but I feel I must pause and just say wow, the response from our community in Woodstock, Canton, Smyrna, and North Georgia has been simply amazing. You are donating your goods, your labor, and your dollars to our water relief project without hesitation, without tax ramifications, and without the desire to be recognized. The generosity of individuals has once again been on full display, and all I can say is thank you, thank you, thank you.
Canned water, as well as other critical goods, are on the way to Augusta, Valdosta, and Western Carolina as I write this. More is going out tomorrow. Our canning line has been running at full capacity because of your generosity. My amazing production crew has jumped on this project with full hearts and countless hours. I fear I’m going to leave out some key partners, from our can supplier (Battle and Associates) to our landlords (Moxie Property Group) at The Mill to our restaurant neighbors Community Burger and Queenies, and last but certainly not least, our lifelong friends Kim and Kevin Griggs for countless volunteer and coordinating hours; thank you, thank you, thank you for your kindness and generosity.
I truly feel a sacred trust with this community and Reformation, and I am privileged and committed to doing all we can to steward that trust as we export your love and kindness to others in the throws of real human despair. Prayer is no magic bullet, but if you’re so inclined, I know the folks in these areas of devastation would not begrudge those prayers tonight. And whatever your perspective might be, count your blessings. North Georgia, we love you, and there’s nothing you can do about it, cheers.
~ Spencer Nix, CEO & Cofounder Reformation Brewery
Our neighbors in Western Carolina need our help.
We got the request from a farmer’s wife in western Carolina for WATER for her small community. In less than 12 hours we’ve got a pallet of the best water in the United States heading her way. Shout out to Kimberly and Kevin (@serpentanddovemusic) for handling the logistics and shipment.
The waters are receding and the discoveries of what lay beneath are horrific. Many, many small communities are still at the highest level of triage, needing basic survival commodities. They are using ATVs and mules to get back into some of the hollers because there is simply no other way. And as you can imagine, there are real dangers drawing a hungry crowd, and the hunger is increasing.
The community need is huge, and they’re asking for MORE HELP!
DONATE NOW at REFORMATION WOODSTOCK or CANTON. Goal is to ship as many items as possible
List of accepted items: Water (Reformation is canning water now, $5 creates a case of water, donate here so we can keep it running https://venmo.com/u/reformationbrewery ) Diapers Formula Wipes Charcoal (this one is huge!!) Non-perishable foods Hand Sanitizer
The earliest days after the devastation are best suited for locals helping locals, small communities helping small communities. Larger organizations and governments are just not agile enough in these early critical moments for the smallest communities, they’re most helpful and equipped for the longer-term recovery chapter and ALL help is needed.
Stay tuned for more opportunities. We’re looking at having a helicopter transport to get it to places of need quickly.
Coming soon to Reformation Woodstock, Cadence Fair returns this Oct. 25-27th! Save the date for 3 FULL DAYS of Bourbon, Beer, & Music to celebrate Reformation’s 11th Anniversary.
It’s the biggest little folk music and beer fest you ever saw, right in the heart of Downtown Woodstock. Join us for this FREE family friendly event in Woodstock, Georgia. More delicious details and full music lineup at cadencefair.com
In case you didn’t already pickup on the theme, Bourbon is the word of the weekend for this year’s special Anniversary release lineup. Sip into a ready-to-drink Bourbon Smash made with mint, lemon, and simple syrup. Savor a barrel-aged Pecan Imperial Stout aged on homemade pralines in freshly emptied Reformation bourbon barrels. And celebrate with our 6 year bourbon. Bourbon for all!
Bourbon Smash
If you loved the ready-to-drink cocktail we made for Jonathan Peyton’s album release, then you’ll love this Bourbon Smash reboot ready for drinking at this year’s Cadence Fair for 2024. A classic bourbon cocktail made with Reformation’s house bourbon, fresh mint, real lemon, and just the right amount of sweetness for balance – this canned cocktail will be available on draft and in 4pks to take home.
“Lucky 11″ BA Pecan Stout
Aged in freshly emptied Reformation Bourbon barrels for 11 months, a small batch Pecan Imperial Stout aged on homemade pralines takes the cake! Roasty, slightly sweet, and a little bit nutty – it’s the perfect beer profile to describe the state of Reformation as we raise a glass to our 11th Anniversary! Because you’ve got to be just a little bit crazy about this industry to make it to year eleven. Am I right?
6 Year Bourbon
A story in the making, we’re back at the Bourbon straight up with this release. With notes of brown sugar, smooth oak, vanilla, rye spice, and a subtle touch of dark cherry – Reformation’s 6 Year Bourbon is a special gift we’ve been saving just for the moment. Stop by and get a taste, or take home a bottle to keep the party going.
Thirsty for more?
Get all the details including the full music lineup at cadencefair.com.
Cozy flannels? In on it. Sliding into your DMs with broken promises. Gaslighting you in your dreams. Toying with your gentle Autumn heart.
We’re calling it.
Sweater weather is a lie (at least in September)
Fortunately, there’s a beer for that.
What’s a North Georgia beer lover to do when the whiplash of False Fall strikes? Head to Reformation for a Blonde Pumpkin Ale of course.
Autumn Crossing is golden, lightly spiced, and softly sweet – with real pumpkin, baking spices, & milk sugar for the perfect gateway to Fall drinking.
And at 5.2% there’s no stopping you from taking two and calling Fall in the morning. Don’t breakup with the season. Sip into Reformation instead!
Available from your neighborhood Reformation starting 9/27
Why a Blonde Ale? We love the tradition of big, heavily spiced, Imperial pumpkin beers (except for Spencer, you pumpkin hater). But this year we were craving something balanced, easy, and suited for switching between sweaters and being sweaty as the season swings from open windows and cool breezes to +90 degrees and hurricane warnings.
And be kind to your small business friends who have an **asterisk** next to any events this weekend (speaking for a friend, of course).
With hurricane Helene rapidly strengthening and making landfall, we are activating our storm refuge SOP at all Reformation locations. Now through Saturday (9/28), the first draft pour for any hurricane Helene evacuees will be free with out of state or South Georgia ID.
The Latin community in Woodstock and Cherokee County plays a vital role in enriching the cultural fabric of our region. With vibrant traditions, rich history, and a deep sense of community, Latin residents contribute significantly to the local economy, arts, and social life. Their influence can be seen in the delicious cuisine served in local restaurants, lively festivals, and the warm sense of togetherness that characterizes many community events.
One such celebration is the upcoming Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) on November 2-3, 2024. This beautiful holiday honors loved ones who have passed, allowing families to come together to remember, celebrate, and share stories. It’s a time for reflection and joy, where the rich traditions of the Latin community shine through vibrant tables, colorful decorations, and traditional music.
We invite everyone in the community to join us at the Woodstock Arts Green in Woodstock’s Backyard for this meaningful celebration. Whether you are part of the Latin community or simply want to experience the culture, this event promises to be a memorable occasion filled with activities for all ages, live performances, and authentic Latin food.
Come and be part of this beautiful cultural celebration. Let’s honor our ancestors together and strengthen the bonds within our diverse community. Reformation is honored to be partnering and offering our Light Mexican Lager for the moment. We look forward to seeing you there!
From SWAGGER Publications
“We’ve handpicked top recommendations to help you discover those cozy autumn flavours we all crave. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just enjoy a casual sip now and then, our guide is here to make sure you find the perfect artisanal drinks for everything from cozy gatherings to quiet nights at home.
This coffee liqueur is smooth, small batch, and house distilled by North Georgia made Reformation Brewery. Made with locally roasted Alma coffee – elevate your ice cream, booze up a milkshake, or sip into a classic Revolver cocktail as cooler temps creep in. Perfect for coffee lovers who appreciate a hand crafted spirit, or those who savor some sweetness with their morning roast. Reformation doesn’t ship, so find a friend to snag this Georgia favorite with limited distribution available in both 500ml bottles and 350ml stocking stuffers (available late November). More at reformationbrewery.com/spirits“
1. You hate saving money on beer. Like with a passion.
2. You definitely don’t like hanging out with other beer loving peeps. Those people? Avoid.
3. Special perks, swag, events, and fun times? Never heard of her. The worst.
OK, so you’ve heard the bad news but you’re still determined to join. Fine – twist my arm.
2025 Memberships include:
– Members only swag. Jackets for new members, OR a new hat +tshirt for the year if you’ve renewed.
– Invitation to four VIP events per year, including a catered end of year dinner for Members.
– 10% off Reformation beer & merchandise all with digital ID card (good at any venue).
– 20oz Woodstock House Letterman Mug for larger pours all year long.
– Early online access to our 2025 catalogue of Reformation barrel-aged products.
So, like – when can I sign up?
Existing Members get first right of refusal for their spot. This means now through Oct. 24th our 90+ existing 2024 Members can either reserve their number and perks for the coming year, or automatically forfeit their seat and open it up to NEW Members on October 25th when Memberships open to the public on Eventbrite.
Are you NEW here? Save the date for Oct. 25th – Cadence Fair – when 2025 Memberships open to the public. You’ll find the sign up link everywhere we can get it to you, including here, on our website, our store, and in your inbox if you’re signed up for our newsletter.
But for real, Boss. What does it cost?
Here’s the breakdown: Memberships are $250 and include a 20oz House Mug (yours to keep when membership expires), Jacket (or hat/shirt for renewing members), 4 VIP Members Only events, early access to barrel-aged goods, and discounted beer +merch. The more you visit, the more you save! At least that’s what your Mom told us.
But can I use my discount card at other venues?
Yessiroony! All Members will receive a digital ID card sent to the email used at checkout, which can be used at any Reformation venue for 10% off Reformation beer and merchandise for Members only (sorry, no group tabs).
OK, but can I give a GIFT Membership?
Heck, yes. Just make sure we know it’s a gift at checkout, and let us know if there are any super secret surprises you don’t want us to ruin – or we might just congratulate your new member by mistake. Seriously though, we get lots of gift memberships each year and it’s a fun way to say you love someone who loves Reformation. Any more questions? Reach out at events@reformationbrewery.com.
I hate waiting. When do I get my stuff?
2025 Members can start redeeming benefits starting Jan. 1st, 2025 (or whenever NEW mugs are in stock, whichever comes first). If you are signing up for the 1st time, please make sure you have opted in for communication from us to get alerts > https://squareup.com/customer-programs/enroll/gNoEP9dUHKS8?
All 2025 jackets, shirts, hats, and other swag is estimated to be available for pickup no later than March 15th, 2025. You MUST opt in for communication from us to receive your full membership benefits.
How does the mug work?
Your mug will be engraved with your Member number and live behind our Woodstock bar for your personal use until membership expires at the end of the year, at which point it is yours to keep! Unnumbered mugs are available at other venues for your convenience.
Few things evoke comfort and indulgence like the deep, aromatic blend of coffee liqueur. Whether enjoyed on the rocks, mixed into cocktails, or drizzled on top of ice cream, coffee liqueur offers a versatile and delicious experience that feels both familiar and like a special treat.
But what is the story behind this dark, velvety elixir? The exact origin of coffee liqueur is shrouded in mystery. Some accounts suggest it was first created in 17th-century Europe by a French monk who sought to preserve the flavor of coffee. However, other sources claim that coffee liqueur also has roots in Jamaica around the same period. Despite the uncertainty about its origins, the recipe for coffee liqueur has been cherished and refined through the centuries. Traditionally, it is made by infusing coffee beans into a distilled spirit, such as brandy or vodka, and then sweetening the mixture.
The flavor profile of coffee liqueur can vary widely depending on the coffee beans and production techniques used. Reformation Brewing’s Coffee Liqueur is crafted in North Georgia using Alma Coffee’s extra dark roast, “Ember,” which features beans sourced from Copan, Honduras. Ember is Alma’s darkest roast, boasting flavors of double chocolate cake, berry compote, and burnt marshmallow.
Last year, I had the opportunity to try Reformation’s Coffee Liqueur and immediately fell in love with the combination of rich coffee and hints of cacao and vanilla. It was so good that I consumed most of the bottle by adding a touch of milk to my glass. But, there are so many cocktails I would love to explore now that I have another bottle in my collection.
Here are a few cocktails I’m considering that would be excellent ways to incorporate this flavorful ingredient:
Espresso Martini: A modern classic, the espresso martini combines coffee liqueur with fresh espresso and vodka. Instead of vodka, I am using gin and would love to see how the herbaceous spirit plays with coffee liqueur.
Cold-Brew Negroni: It took a while for me to fall in love with Negronis, but I have finally seen the light. This twist on the traditional Negroni, using coffee liqueur and cold-brew coffee to add a bold, aromatic depth to the classic cocktail. I’m hoping it will transport me back to Italy where Negronis and espressos reign supreme.
Bahama Mama: Coffee beans are grown in tropical regions, so it makes sense to lean into its origins with a Bahama Mama. This cocktail features coffee liqueur alongside dark overproof rum, pineapple juice, evoking the bright, sunny vibes of the Caribbean.
Revolver: The revolver reminds me of an Old Fashioned, but with coffee liqueur and a little flare. This cocktail combines bourbon and coffee liqueur with orange bitters and a flamed orange peel. It’s simple yet sophisticated.
Margarita Negra: Margaritas will always be in my top five favorite cocktails, so naturally, I want to try any iteration of the classic. This unique margarita incorporates coffee liqueur with tequila and lime juice, creating a rich and tangy flavor profile with a hint of coffee.
Irish Affogato: You shouldn’t even have to choose between dessert or a cocktail, but if you did, go for an Irish Affogato. Pour coffee liqueur over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a boozy twist on the classic Italian affogato.
Coffee liqueur offers a world of possibilities, enhancing both classic and creative cocktails with its rich and aromatic flavors. Whether you’re a fan of traditional recipes or enjoy experimenting with new combinations, there’s a coffee liqueur cocktail out there to suit every taste.
Reformation Brewing’s Coffee Liqueur, with its unique flavor profile and local craftsmanship, is a fantastic choice for elevating your drink game, and has become my go-to coffee liqueur. I hope you enjoy exploring these options and savoring the delightful versatility of coffee liqueur! Now, I’m off to a little exploring of my own.
Stephanie, a James Beard-nominated writer based in Atlanta, has been immersed in the beer industry since 2018. Her writing has graced the pages of publications such as CraftBeer.com, Good Beer Hunting, and the New Brewer. In 2023, she founded The Share Community, an online platform dedicated to fostering support among Black and Brown women and non-binary individuals pursuing careers in craft beer. Stephanie also provides content strategy and creation services to companies in the food and beverage space, serving both B2B and B2C audiences.
A look back at Cadence Fair 2023 and Reformation’s 10th Anniversary, video by The Highlight Reel ATL
“Reformation is turning 11 years old and it truly feels like our brand is in her tween era. There’s no denying this venture has been like a child to me and many others who have invested so much. We have loved her, nurtured her, protected her, and in some ways spoiled her. And now she’s exploring outside the nest. Trying new things, experimenting with new relationships, and sometimes she’s a little weird. But at the end of the day, she is fundamentally the same. Same values, same vision, same goals as when she started. As CEO I am learning to trust others with more of Reformation’s future. And honestly, the more I entrust her, the more I see her shine. I’m really proud. Proud of the brand Reformation has been, is today, and will be tomorrow.
I look forward to these next few years, even as the craft-made industry as a whole remains in flux. Many challenges exist today and more are on the horizon, but Reformation is well positioned to seize the day and continue our vision of liberating moments that matter to the reformer in everyone. I look forward to continuing to grow the business and spread the joy that Reformation can bring to individuals and communities.
Times like ours remind us that the simple act of raising a glass, whether it be a beer, a cocktail, a glass of wine, a highball of quality spirit, or a non-alcoholic alternative, is a means of grace. Gathering in a communal space outside of work or home, putting down our phones, and engaging in a real analog conversation will always be sacred. Reformation exists for these moments and I hope we will be raising toasts with each other for many years to come.
I am so grateful for the many employees of Reformation past and present. Thank you to all those who have loved and invested in Reformation. And not only our crew members, but our investors, our distribution and retail partners, and of course our loving community. I am truly humbled by it all.
This is why we take such lengths to celebrate the gift of Reformation and the gift of community with our annual Cadence Fair. As we turn the page to a new decade, we’re extending the fair for the entire weekend. Three days of fun and music at our Woodstock venue and everyone’s invited! This is a great weekend to invite your out-of-town family or friends to come visit while you flex your community. And there’s plenty to flex, something for everyone.
Let’s raise a toast and celebrate together again!” – Spencer Nix, CEO & Cofounder Reformation Brewery
Cadence Fair, which celebrates the brewery’s anniversary, has taken place on one day annually since the first event in 2017. This year, it has been extended to three days to give the community more time to enjoy live music, food and activities.
Hours for the fair are set for 3 to 10 p.m. Oct. 25, 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Oct. 26 and noon to 9 p.m. Oct. 27 at Reformation Brewery’s downtown Woodstock location, 105 Elm St.
“Cadence Fair has historically been one of our favorite and most well attended events, so it just made sense to extend it to the entire weekend so we could enjoy the moment a little longer and make use of the setup over a longer window,” said Jessica Miller, marketing director for Reformation Brewery.
