The trend of bringing interesting and creative breweries to New Jersey shows no signs of slowing down. But Diamond Spring Brewing Company in Denville still stands out as a unique option within the brewery scene. That’s because it’s an almost entirely on-demand brewery.
What does that mean? In short, it’s the best way to maximize the brewery’s compact 1,500-square foot space inside a small historical building. Diamond Spring Brewing can fit just five barrels with no storage options. Supplies arrive at the beginning of the week. The crew brews as much as possible, cleans up on Thursdays, and then they open. New batches ferment while the previous week’s batches supply the taproom. Guests drink everything they produce, and the cycle starts again. Co-owner Chrissy Doremus says they pour over 5,500 beers each week.
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Inside Diamond Spring Brewing
The interior can seat 24 guests at tables with two standing ledges. “The goal of the design is to present a juxtaposition of the historical with the vibrantly modern,” Chrissy says. “Departing from the typical industrial, minimalist design of many brewery taprooms, the interior decor is elevated and chic; more like something you might stumble upon in Manhattan.”
Outdoors, Diamond Spring Brewing boasts a 6,000-square-foot beer garden. Thirty umbrella-covered picnic tables sit atop a white pebble-covered ground. They also have circles of Adirondack chairs, and an outdoor drink ledge. Guests are welcome to bring their own chairs and blankets, as well as dogs and children. Chrissy calls the outdoor space “a beachy retreat inspired by our favorite breweries in California.”
Live music is also something Diamond Spring Brewery takes seriously. The music in their beer garden showcases “the best and most original musicians we can find,” Chrissy explains. They feature top cover bands in the area and, in particular, favor young artists who produce original compositions.
What’s on Tap
Lakeside IPA (a citrusy hop) and the Diamond Spring American Lager (crisp with low bitterness) are already fan favorite options. Another popular pick was a seasonal summer brew called Island Hibiscus, a blonde ale with hibiscus and strawberry. In addition to beer, they have a self-serve water station, homemade sodas, and hard seltzer.
Since New Jersey breweries can’t serve food or partner with restaurants or food trucks, patrons can bring their own. They do also have menus from local restaurants, so patrons can order takeout and bring it to the brewery. On-site, they provide light snacks like trail mixes, nuts, dried fruits, and pretzels from Kariba Farms in Dover.
Future plans include expanding the brew house and outdoor seating. They also hope to upgrade the outdoor space to include heating and coverage from the elements.
About the Owners
Chrissy owns Diamond Spring Brewing with her husband, Craig, a Denville native for nearly 20 years. Craig, head brewer, has experience as a homebrewer and also owns a local home renovation company. Likewise, Chrissy is a marketing consultant who owns Evergreen Creatives.
Visit Diamond Spring Brewing at 50 Broadway in Denville. Look for them online to learn more.
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All Photos: © Diamond Spring Brewing
