Selling Homebrew: A Practical Guide to Turn Your Brew into Cash

If you’ve been perfecting a batch of IPA or a quirky sour, chances are you’ve thought about sharing it beyond friends. Turning that hobby into a little side‑business can be more rewarding than you expect—if you know the right steps. Below you’ll find the basics that keep you out of trouble, help you set a fair price, and get people lining up for a pint.

Legal Basics You Must Know

First things first: you can’t just start selling booze without checking the law. In most places, homebrew is legal for personal use but selling it usually requires a license from the local alcohol authority or the TTB (for the U.S.). Look up your state’s “cottage‑industry” permit—many states have a simplified process for small batches.

Make sure every batch is labeled with the alcohol content, ingredients, and a notice that it’s not for minors. If you’re brewing in a shared kitchen, confirm that the lease or rental agreement allows commercial production. Skipping these steps can lead to fines or even a forced shutdown, so treat the paperwork like a necessary ingredient.

Pricing, Marketing, and Finding Customers

Once the legal side is sorted, figure out how much to charge. Start by tallying ingredient costs, equipment wear, and the time you spend brewing. A common rule of thumb is to mark up the total cost by 50‑100% depending on your market. Don’t price yourself too high—homebrew lovers love a good deal, but they also expect quality.

Next, get the word out. Social media is free and effective; post tasting photos, share brewing stories, and invite followers to a local tap‑room pop‑up. Partnering with a nearby bar or coffee shop can give you a shelf without a big upfront cost. Offer a “first‑drink free” night to attract curious tasters and collect feedback.

Don’t underestimate the power of a simple flyer at a farmer’s market or a local craft fair. People love discovering new beverages in person, and a quick conversation can turn a passerby into a repeat customer. Keep a small inventory—enough to meet demand but not so much that you risk waste.

Finally, keep track of what sells best. Use a spreadsheet to note batch numbers, sales volume, and customer comments. Over time you’ll see which styles (like a hoppy pale ale or a smooth stout) earn the most repeat orders, letting you focus on the crowd‑pleasers.

Starting a homebrew sales venture isn’t rocket science, but it does require clear steps: get the right permit, price sensibly, and market where your audience hangs out. Follow these basics, stay honest with your customers, and you’ll turn that hobby‑brew into a profitable side‑hustle before you know it.