Published by Leonardo Calcagno
Who are you and your current job?
I am Dee DeLange, co-owner and taproom manager of Waconia Brewing Company
What was the inspiration behind your brewery?
My husband (Pete) and I along with my brother-in-law (Bob) and sister-in-law (Kay) decided to start the brewery because we saw an opportunity in Waconia, which had been without a local brewery in over a century. The idea first came about when Bob and Kay, with their son Ryan, moved to Waconia in 2013. Kay had gotten a promotion and Bob was looking for a change of career’s and stricken with entrepreneurial, spirit and a love for beer we decided to open WBC together!
Can you give us a tour of your beer scene?
The local beer scene where we are located is becoming more and more competitive. In the South West metro of the Twin Cities, we have at least 8 breweries and more in the plans. In Waconia alone, we have WBC, 3 wineries one of which is a brewery as well, and a distillery. In Minnesota, in general, the competition is fierce and the craft beer scene is thriving. An astonishing amount of high-quality beer is being produced and it is really driving friendly competition and creativity to advance the craft beer scene in Minnesota.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start a brewery?
Advice I would give to anyone starting a business is prepared to work 24/7 but also be prepared to enjoy creating something great but most importantly make sure your beer tastes good and is consistently in stock!
