ELECTROW VOLUME THREE
MISSION SPRINGS BREWING COMPANY:
THE SPRINGS TAPHOUSES
As the demand for craft beer in South Korea continues to
skyrocket, international brewers are importing their
products to help quench the thirst. One of the most
successful companies to do so thus far is the Mission
Springs Brewing Company. Located in Canada, the
Mission Springs was started in 1988 by Ken Brookes and
Brock Rodgers. Six years later, the brewery and
restaurant were added and in 2013 they began their
expansion into South Korea.
Not only have they worked with Indulge Korea to
distribute their kegs to local restaurants and bars, but
they’ve also opened their own pubs. With Springs Tap
House locations in both Itaewon and Cheongdam
districts, the company has clearly made an impact on the
Korean market. While the Springs Tap Houses offer a
selection of craft beers, they also serve al forno stone
oven-baked pizzas for customers to devour.
In December of last year, the Springs Tap House became
the first pub in Seoul to receive a Blue Ribbon from
critics for both the food and beer. “For a gastro pub in
Korea to even be considered for the Blue Ribbon seemed
an impossible feat,” said Santino Sortino, co-owner of
the Springs Tap Houses. “The guide has been publishing
since 2002 and to my knowledge, there has never been
mention of a pub before. It’s a fantastic accomplishment,
especially in our first year.”
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