The Perfect Brews: OM ÖL + söm kölsch
Pouring the Foundation: Our Brewing Challenge
Omgivning participated in Nous Engineering’s 2024 Beer Brewing Competition. The event wasn't just about crafting the perfect brew: it was about coming together as a team, channeling our creativity, and celebrating our unique community. We entered the competition with two distinctive beers, each inspired by the spaces and stories that shape our work.
Drafting Inspiration: SÖM KÖLSCH and OM ÖL
Drawing inspiration from söm co-space, our collaborative hub in Chinatown, we crafted SÖM KÖLSCH. This beer is a true reflection of our vibrant community, infused with the aromatic essence of home-grown Pitcher Sage and Black Sage from our garden. Each sip is a nod to the power of collaboration and the local flavors that define our neighborhood.
Our second entry, OMÖL (OM for Omgivning and öl is Swedish for ale), is a citrusy IPA that pays homage to our roots and our commitment to innovation. With hand-picked neighborhood kumquats and mandarins adding a bright, zesty flavor, this brew is a tribute to our Swedish heritage and the bold ideas that drive our work.
Building the Perfect Brew: Crafting with Precision
Brewing SÖM KÖLSCH and OMÖL was a process filled with meticulous care and creativity. From the perfect mash of Pilsen Malt and Hallertau Hops to the infusion of home-grown sages and local citrus, every step was a blend of science and art. Challenges like temperature control and clarity only added to the excitement, and after weeks of patient fermentation, our beers were ready for the world.
Capping It Off: Bottling with a Blueprint
Bottling day was an exciting science experiment. Each bottle was carefully sanitized, filled, and sealed, with just the right amount of sugar solution added for carbonation. The process required precision, but seeing our creations come to life in beautifully branded bottles was worth every effort.
The taste of kölsch was herbaceous and bright. The IPA was juicy and citrusy. Both winners to us!
Labeling the Blueprint: Branding with Structure
Our branding and labeling embraced a home-crafted, artisanal look. Making the labels out of canvas not only added a rustic, handcrafted touch but also provided a practical solution for condensation and grip. Each label was meticulously measured, cut, and frayed at the edges to enhance the handcrafted aesthetic. The SÖM KÖLSCH design reflected the serene vibe of söm co-space, while OMÖL’s minimalist branding paid homage to Scandanavian design. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with many appreciating the thoughtful connection between the design and the unique flavors inside.
Raising the Roof: Celebrating at the Competition
The night of the competition was a celebration of creativity and camaraderie. Presenting our beers to the judges and fellow competitors was a proud moment, and the recognition we received—making it into the top three—was a testament to our team’s hard work and dedication.
A Strong Finish: Cheers to Creative Construction
Participating in Nous Engineering’s 2024 Beer Brewing Competition was an unforgettable journey. It brought us together as a team, pushed our creative boundaries, and allowed us to celebrate the community that makes Omgivning special. We’re incredibly proud of SÖM KÖLSCH and OMÖL and can’t wait to continue the brewing journey next year.
Cheers to creativity, collaboration, and the many more adventures to come! 🍻
