Goose Island Beer Co. was founded in 1988 as a brewpub on Chicago's North Side, born out of founder John Hall's inspiration from a journey through Europe. Frustrated by the limited beer options available in the United States at the time, Hall set out to bring diverse, flavour-forward brewing traditions to the Midwest. What began as a scrappy local operation quickly grew into one of the most recognised names in American craft beer. In 2011, beer giant Anheuser-Busch acquired Goose Island in a deal worth $38.8 million, marking a pivotal moment in the craft beer industry. Goose Island's portfolio is notably broad, encompassing 30 or more distinct beers produced using 15 yeast strains across 32 fermenters running around the clock. The brewery is especially celebrated for its barrel-aged programme, including the iconic Bourbon County Brand Stout series, a range of robust imperial stouts aged in bourbon barrels that have helped define the American barrel-aged beer category. A Single Barrel Program further showcases the brewery's dedication to craft and complexity. Beyond its flagship beers, Goose Island has earned a strong reputation for innovation and award-winning quality, with offerings such as the Black Eagle English Barley Wine highlighting the range of styles in its catalogue. The original Chicago Barrel House, equipped with a rooftop solar array, continues to serve as a hub for beer lovers visiting the city.