Jackson Beer Company Brings Craft Beer Expertise To Oxford

Jackson Beer Company’s shelves have been stocked with 300 unique craft beers from 40 breweries since the store opened in December 2016. There’s no doubt that Oxford is a drinking town, and owner, Allen Jackson saw a need for a bigger selection of craft beer in town. That’s why he continues to bring in new brews based on what’s in season and what’s in demand.
“I try to bring in something new every week. Sometimes it’s 10-15 new things, other weeks it’ll maybe be one or two,” Jackson said. “With craft beer, it’s all about what’s new. I enjoy when people come in and ask what’s new because It gives them a chance to try new things.”
While Jackson realizes some may not think they’ll enjoy craft beer, but he knows that when curious customers find the store, he can find something that they’ll like.
“Craft beer can be intimidating because there are so many to choose from, and people may think of an overpowering flavor each time, but if you give it a chance, you’ll find something you like,” Jackson said. “When someone says ‘I don’t like beer’ that’s like saying ‘I don’t like food.’ You haven’t tried it all.”
Jackson mentioned the importance of connecting with his customers, and that’s why he takes the time to get to know each person who comes in, learning what they like and don’t like. In an effort to allow customers to find their favorites, Jackson Beer Co. allows them to build their own six packs from the individual beers on the shelves. 
“Building your own six pack gives you the chance to try new things without worrying about being stuck with beer you don’t like. I like to let customers choose for themselves, but I am always here to help when someone is looking for a recommendation,” Jackson said. “Connecting with customers is one of my top priorities. I don’t look at this as a beer store, I see it as a destination where people can come hang out, try different beers, talk about the beer, and learn new things.”

Jackson came to Oxford after spending time in Washington D.C. which is a top-5 market for craft beer. Mississippi is currently ranked 51st in the country in terms of craft beer sales, according to brewersassociation.org, and while that may seem like a challenge for Jackson, he enjoys what that means for his business and the people of Oxford. 
“I don’t look at that ranking as a bad thing; I look at that as a positive because there’s a lot of opportunities to bring new people in and educate them in craft beer as they develop their own style and tastes,” Jackson said.

With a large population of out-of-state students, Jackson emphasizes the importance of bringing in a variety of breweries from around the country.
“So many people come to Oxford from out of town and want their local beer, and they know a lot about craft beer,” Jackson said. “I’m proud to offer them a place where they can find what they are looking for.”

Jackson keeps ten kegs on tap at the shop for customers to sample, and to fill up the growlers. Jackson describes the growlers as a “big to-go cup.” The growlers are sold in 32 oz. 64 oz. and 128 oz. sizes. The 128 oz. can also be turned into a personally sized keg with the use of a special cap.

“My goal is to always keep something new on the board. I would never run the same beer back-to-back, never have, never will. Keeping different beers on tap is a key part of what we do, keeping seasonal beers up there that people can enjoy. Based on a customers’ tastes, I can pair them with a beer that they’ll enjoy on the board,” Jackson said.
Located at 1801 W Jackson Avenue, Jackson Beer Co. is open from 11 a.m.- 8 p.m.  Tuesday-Thursday, the store is open until 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Jackson Beer Co. is also open on Sundays.
“A lot of people don’t know that you can get beer on Sunday’s but, we’re here from 12-5,” Jackson said.” “Sampling beers and trying new things is a great way to spend your Sunday.”
Jackson is looking forward to expanding his reach into the Oxford community and is looking to set up several monthly events to bring more Oxonians into the world of craft beer. Customers can follow the store’s updates on social media and through their new text club which gets you 10 percent off of your first purchase. To opt in text JBEER to 51660.

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Steven Gagliano is the managing editor of HottyToddy.com. He can be reached at steven.gagliano@hottytoddy.com.