Living Outside The Lines: Welcome To Shiner, Texas, Y’all!

How then did Shiner, Texas become the home of world renowned Shiner Beer? Okay, maybe not world renowned, but definitely popular! Let’s find out! Czech and German immigrants eventually settled…

Becky J Miller | Exclusive to Corridor News

Situated at the intersection of U.S. Highway 90A, and State Highway 95, approximately fourteen miles west of Hallettsville is Shiner, TX. Part of Lavaca County, and according to the 2010 U.S. census, boasting a population of 2069, Shiner’s Texas roots run deep.

Shiner began as an Indian settlement named, “Half Moon.” Early on, the area was home to ranchers, cattle, railroad, Indians, outlaws and Texas Rangers. In 1885 a post office opened in the area, and in 1887 Henry B. Shiner donated land for the town to have its official start. By 1888 the community of “New Half Moon”, officially became known as, “Shiner.” In 1890, L.P. Amsler was elected the first mayor.

How then did Shiner, Texas become the home of world renowned Shiner Beer? Okay, maybe not world renowned, but definitely popular! Let’s find out! Czech and German immigrants eventually settled the area, so it is no surprise that by 1909, the Spoetzl Brewery, one of Texas’ oldest independent breweries was founded, and remains in operation today.

The secret to the success of Shiner Beer may be attributed to the tradition of Bavarian Brewmaster, Kosmos Spoetzl. Shiner beer is hand crafted, one at a time, and then naturally aged for no less than thirty days, guaranteeing an exceptionally smooth taste. The beer company produces Shiner Blonde, Shiner Bock, Shiner Light and a number of seasonal/specialty brews.

I become personally acquainted with Shiner when I ran my first beer run in 2014. The campus is gorgeous and the race generally sells out every year. Started in 2012, the annual 5K and half marathon support the Boot Campaign, which cares for military personnel, a cause very near and dear to this military brat’s heart.

Twice I’ve completed races in Shiner, but until last week, I had never visited the brewery, just because. Great friends who live in Cuero suggested we venture out to the brewery one warm June Saturday afternoon. The relaxing afternoon spent with friends was well worth the short drive.

Brewery tours are available Monday thru Friday at 11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., but the gift shop hours and free tastings are Monday thru Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The staff is friendly and engaging, beer tastings are complimentary, and nostalgic Shiner memorabilia is not only plentiful, but also reasonably priced.

Visitors receive three tasting tokens with the first selection requiring no token. Personally I am not a beer drinker. I only like free beer after a hard race, or the first cold sips of my husband’s. However, it is fun to sip on the different flavors. The HEB in Victoria carries single beers, so occasionally I venture out of my comfort zone sampling something like Shiner’s strawberry blonde, without having to commit to an entire six pack.

That Saturday on tap were; Shiner Ruby Redbird, Shiner Sea Salt and Lime, Shiner Prickly Pear and Shiner Mango Kolsch. All were tasty, but Shiner Sea Salt was definitely my favorite.

Although we did not indulge, visitors have their choice of playing giant Jenga, corn hole beanbag toss, or several other outdoor games. Just chillin’ with friends at picnic tables and benches is also an option.

The gift shop has numerous items to choose from. Our friends bought an old-time metal sign for their outdoor bar/pool area while we left with a magnet, several different beer glasses and some fun Shiner coasters.

Nestled right in our very own backyard, with free tastings, friendly staff and a brewery that annually ships six million cases of beer to every state sans Hawaii, a trip to Shiner, Texas should definitely be on the 2018 Summer to do list!

Until Next Time,
Becky J Miller
“Warrior Princess”

Becky J Miller is a contributor and is exclusive to SM Corridor News. You can read more of Becky’s columns in Lifestyle.