COVER STORY | Carolyn Stephens of Oswego Brewing
- Glancer Magazine
- Jul 10, 2022
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 13, 2022
OSWEGO MOVER & SHAKER
ST. CHARLES/OSWEGO–Carolyn loves the process of creating a recipe at Oswego Brewing Co. in Oswego which is best known for the craft beers they brew on site. Although their signature beers are Hay’z for Horsez and their Pickin’ series, which are fruited sours, she loves the creative spirit of taking a traditional beer and respectfully elevating it.
“I love talking to people and explaining the brewing process,” Carolyn says. “I also enjoy helping someone to find a beer to drink by asking questions to zero in on flavors they like and then moving them out of their comfort zone to try something new.”
Because her job is so physical, Carolyn finds release at her local gym, CrossKicks Fitness in South Elgin and enjoys working out with her wife and the rest of her FitFam. Family and friends are a big part of her life and she loves sharing beer and food experiences, as well as hiking and traveling to the Southwest United States.
CAROLYN'S FAVORITES
Favorite cocktail to mix or beer to brew?
Traditional beers with complexity in their flavor profile such as dunkels or dry irish stouts.
Favorite cocktail to drink?
Darker beers – brown ales, porters, or a nice dark lager. If I’m not drinking beer I’m drinking bourbon or whiskey.
Most unique ingredient you've ever mixed with?
I’ve brewed several beers with various herbs and spices – rosemary, sage, hibiscus and fresh ginger.
Most unique garnish you've ever used to decorate with?
We brewed a mango fruited wheat beer called Go Man-Go. We’ll garnish the rims of glasses with tahin.
Favorite local place for craft cocktails or brews besides your place of business?
Niche in Geneva for their vast whiskey selection and Montarra in Algonquin
