Inspired by working at a small Dunedin Bar, Jim Falconer leapt at the chance to work at Emerson’s Brewery over 16 years ago. Passionate about the creative and scientific balance in the craft of beer, Falconer has been innovative in his years at Emerson’s. From carrying sacks and delivering goods, Falconer progressed through the ranks to become Head Brewer.
From the humble beginnings of the creator, Richard Emerson, brewing in his garage, Falconer described the process as unchanged even though the business has grown over the years. Inspired by classic styles, Falconer and his team strive to give them new, modern twists.
“It’s less about being different and more about re-interpreting traditional styles,” said Falconer.
Only a number of their beers make it to the cellar door or restaurant, though having a clear mandate ability to do this process on a grand scale is very exciting.
Located in Dunedin, Emerson strongly links to the local community, supporting several local fundraisers and events each year. With a long-term partnership with the Orokonui Ecosanctuary, Emerson supports their ongoing effort to develop a healthy, self-sustaining, pest-free ecosystem in the Orokonui Valley. Falconer stated that Emerson is always looking for new ways to improve its brewing practices for the environment, such as waste system evaluations and plastic incorporation.
Falconer described himself as a highly focused person with a love for the process and the repetition of brewing. The rewarding feeling comes from completing daily tasks that eventuate to incredible results. Watching his staff grow with experience brings out this passion in nostalgic ways.
Career highlights for Falconer include winning numerous medals for Emerson’s beers over the years, such as the two bronze medals, Extra Stout and Baltic Porter, won in 2012. Recreating the “unusual” Emerson Weissbier was exciting for Falconer, especially when the product was canned for the first time this year – receiving rave reviews in the recent New World Beer and Cider Awards.
With Emerson’s 30th birthday celebration this year, Falconer has some exciting collaborations with Altitude Brewing, Queenstown, using locally grown malt and hops.
“Emerson’s has always been based around strong teamwork. Passion and hard work from lots of people are key to our success. Our number one goal as a brewing team is to keep refreshing traditional styles. We want to continue looking at less popular styles and finding ways to bring them to the public as new beers for them to love,” said Falconer.
For anyone interested in brewing, Falconer recommended learning about the balance of art and science involved in the craft. Harnessing your attention to detail and using your passion alongside hard work is the ultimate recipe for success.
