COASTE | FEB - MAR 2014

COASTE | PERSONALITIES

After an era of declining sales, the beer industry has brewed a bounce back that actually began in 2012 when, for the first time in several years, beer shipments nationally exceeded 13 million barrels (two million more than 2011). At the same time, analysts note that credit for this resurgence isn’t being driven by Clydesdales, the World’s Most Interesting Man or countless other media campaigns (and millions of dollars). Rather, it’s the concoctions created by a fast-growing niche of craft brewers nationwide that have inspired and excited both curious consumers and die-hard beer lovers alike to indulge in new, innovative, often fun, sometimes crazy flavors — accompanied, of course, by equally inspired marketing. To be sure, that’s a point not lost on Peter Kendall and Walt Costello, founders of Point Ybel Brewing Company. Having successfully introduced a variety of craft brews in restaurants throughout Sanibel, Fort Myers Beach and the surrounding area, Point Ybel Brewing Company has officially gone public, with a new brewery and tasting room in Fort Myers. For both

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