We had an incredible visit with Andy Gioia, Head Brewer and Owner of Birdsmouth Beer, and his team at their fantastic brewery located in Fort Monmouth. The fully renovated facility sits on the site of the former Commissary for the Fort, which once served as the supermarket for military families living and working on the base. This unique piece of history now houses a thriving brewery dedicated to crafting exceptional, easy-drinking lagers. Cheers to Birdsmouth Beer for creating such a welcoming and enjoyable space! birdsmouthbeer.com
A Commitment to Quality Lagers
Andy and his team specialize in brewing the kind of beers we love—flavorful, refreshing, and approachable lagers for everyday enjoyment. Birdsmouth Beer keeps things simple, offering a staple lineup of 5-7 beers available at the brewery, on tap at local bars and restaurants, and in select liquor stores across New Jersey. Their focus on high-quality ingredients, meticulous brewing techniques, and freshness ensures every pint is crisp and satisfying.
The Birdsmouth Beer Experience
Walking into Birdsmouth Beer, you immediately feel the warmth of a community-centered space. The brewery offers comfortable seating, communal picnic tables, and a welcoming atmosphere where guests can bring their own food. Whether you’re relaxing with friends, playing cornhole, or trying your luck on the pinball machines, there’s something for everyone. The brewery embodies the idea of gathering over good beer, just as its name suggests.
Why “Birdsmouth”?
The name “Birdsmouth” comes from a carpentry term— a joint used to connect wood or materials. This concept of connection and craftsmanship is central to Birdsmouth Beer’s philosophy. Just as a well-made joint creates something strong and lasting, Birdsmouth Beer brings people together over finely crafted lagers. Their logo features the Goldfinch, New Jersey’s state bird, reinforcing their local pride and community spirit.
A Homegrown Passion
Birdsmouth Beer is the creation of Andy Gioia and Rocco Laginestra. Andy began brewing in a small Asbury Park apartment, driven by a passion for making things—whether in the kitchen or brewhouse. His background in culinary arts and microbiology led him to professional brewing. After attending the American Brewers Guild, he worked his way through the industry, gaining hands-on experience before becoming a head brewer. Together with Rocco, they built a brewery focused on perfecting lagers with precision and purpose.
Fresh, Local, and Community-Focused
Birdsmouth Beer is committed to staying local. They only distribute within New Jersey, ensuring every pint reaches its destination fresh. Their partnerships with local businesses mean that every Birdsmouth lager offers the best experience. Whether sipping a crisp pilsner or enjoying a seasonal release, you can taste the craftsmanship in every batch.
A Brewery with History and Heart
The brewery’s Fort Monmouth location adds character to Birdsmouth Beer. Once the Fort’s Commissary, the space has been thoughtfully repurposed to honor its past while embracing its future. The original Commissary sign now serves as their beer menu, and a historic motto will soon be displayed on the walls. The Fort’s legacy as a gathering place lives on through Birdsmouth Beer, making it a fitting home for a brewery dedicated to bringing people together.
Behind the Scenes: The Brewing Process
During our visit, Andy took us behind the scenes to see the brewing process in action. The brewery prioritizes precision and efficiency, ensuring each lager is brewed to perfection. Their traditional lagering techniques use cold fermentation, which takes longer but results in a cleaner, more refined beer. From the mash tun, where grain becomes fermentable sugars, to the fermentation tanks where yeast works its magic, every step is meticulously executed to create smooth, drinkable lagers.
One highlight of our tour was their seasonal hoppy lager in production. Due to popular demand, Birdsmouth Beer is bringing back a dry-hopped pilsner, using German hops for a unique twist. Their commitment to listening to customers and refining their craft sets them apart in the brewing industry.
Cheers to Birdsmouth Beer!
Our visit to Birdsmouth Beer was more than just a tour—it was an experience filled with passion, craftsmanship, and community spirit. Andy and his team have created a space where great beer and great people come together. We can’t wait to return. Whether you’re a lager enthusiast or just looking for a welcoming spot for a quality brew, Birdsmouth Beer is a must-visit destination.
Next time you’re in Oceanport, stop by Birdsmouth Beer at 675 Oceanport Way, grab a pint, and experience Jersey-style lagers for yourself. Cheers!
For more information, visit their website: Birdsmouth Beer
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