The nothing-short-of-iconic Dixie
Brewing Company has been serving beloved beer for over a century now, with
no signs of stopping. And recently, they have been collaborating directly with
leaders in surrounding black and brown communities to begin a process of
rebranding that will help to foster an atmosphere more conducive to equality in
every sense. Their new name, Faubourg Brewing Company, is steeped in New
Orleans culture, and the general manager, Jim Birch, assures that they will
continue on their mission to spread great beer and to celebrate every facet of
New Orleans.
A humble,
vacant, rather lonely lot in 1907 is where Dixie Brewery has its provenance.
For decades and decades, the brewery gradually grew, both in reach and in
communal love and respect, but Hurricane Katrina smashed it as hard as it did
every other part of New Orleans. However, they bounced back rather well, and
now, in 2020, the famous brewery is continuing operation under a new name.
Until early 2021, fans of the brewery will see the same original Dixie name and
label on sale at typical vendors before the rebranding efforts will take effect.
But early next year, Faubourg brews will be taking the place of the soon-to-be
retired Dixie.
Faubourg Brewing Company owes its
return to New Orleans to Tom and Gayle Benson, the well-known owners of the New
Orleans Saints. After Katrina decimated the original brewing location, their
products had to be made entirely out-of-state before the Bensons aided them in
their return to the Crescent City. Nowadays, Gayle survives her husband and is
the majority share owner in the entirely locally owned and operated Faubourg
Brewing Company and is in full accord with the name change and rebranding
efforts.
Dixie Brewery/Faubourg Brewing Company: 3501 Jourdan Rd., (504) 867-4000, dixiebeer.com
