Torrance’s The Strand Brewing Co. and the Art of Handcrafted Beer

Secreted away in an industrial complex within the South Bay is the Strand Brewing Co. This concealed treasure in Torrance, with its amazing handcrafted beer, won’t stay a secret for long. Open for four years now, Strand Brewing Co. is one of the first of a handful of breweries that have been showing up in Torrance. Owners Rich Marcello & Joel Elliott are very hands on in their business and are known for being very friendly and welcoming to patrons. I had an opportunity to meet with Rich to discuss his beer brewing philosophy and his long term goals. I really admired the dedication that they had to brewing beer that they could really be proud of and presenting a high quality product to customers. They put enormous effort into hand crafting each of their beers.

The Strand Brewing Co also has a welcoming atmosphere. It’s housed in an open area with the brewing equipment exposed, beer fermenting in the background and lots of natural light streaming in during the day. Seating is sparse but there are a few beer barrel tables. What really makes it special is the sense of community that it present. The owners have established relationships with their patrons and are not shy about expressing their gratitude for the loyalty of their consumers. No food is served but you are more than welcome to BYOF (bring your own food).

The Beer

The Strand does not serve flights of beer, however I was delighted when I was informed that I could try a few beers out before choosing one. Even after I chose one, I ended up taking a few bottles home for later. They have so many delicious brews on tap that it would be difficult to choose a favorite. All of the beers are unfiltered and unpasteurized and are hand stirred. The entire brewing process happens on site. Most of the beers are complex with various flavors having an immediate powerful effect, followed by others slowly unfolding on your tongue as you drink.

The 24th Street Pale Ale pours an orange hue with a good amount of head that lingers on top of the beer. It is a hoppy beer with citrus, malty and earthy flavors dancing about and finishing with a satisfying bitter hop note. It has a 6.1% ABV and is an amazingly balanced brew with a complex taste which keeps customers coming back for more (and taking home growlers). It is also Strand’s signature beer and the only beer they sold in their first year.

The Atticus is my personal favorite from The Strand Brewing Co. It pours a beautiful, deep amber color with a clean and translucent appearance. The aroma is hoppy and malty with citrus notes. I particularly enjoy the fruity and floral flavors that blend well together in the beer. There is a bittersweet woodsy finish that leaves you wanting another taste. ABV 7.2%

 

Stop in and let us know which beer is your favorite. Don’t forget to ask local restaurants if they have Strand on tap!

 

Strand Brewing Co.

23520 Telo Ave #1, Torrance, CA 90505