Exferimentation Brewing Co’s Exit

Exferimentation Brewing Co in Pontiac, announced, late Monday, it will be closing its doors effectively immediately via a Facebook post.

The brewery was known for it’s experimental brews that were served in science beakers and presented on a periodic table on the brewery wall. They hosted open mic nights, comedy shows, spun vinyl, and had retro video games available to play.

According to the Facebook post, the brewery’s owner Eric Benton cited “limited resources” and a “lean business model” for why the brewery was closing. He also said that the brewery was “never able to recover … after things opened up.” The post thanked employees, Pontiac, and patrons.

Being literally steps away from another separate brewery, Fillmore 13 Brewery, allowed craft been enthusiasts an opportunity to knock two breweries off their list. One thing that could be noted at both establishments was how much they supported each other. Each bartender would usually ask, “Hey, did you go next door yet?” and point in the direction of the other brewery. We know the craft beer community is close in Michigan. Exferimentation and Fillmore 13 showcased it.

Here’s a recap of the coverage we’ve provided Exferimentation over the years:

• Episode 049 – Exferimentation Brewing Co
• Brewery Review – Exferimentation Brewing Co
• The List – 20 Beers You Want to Try at the Michigan Summer Beer Festival (2018)
  • Pink Tickler was featured
• Preview – 4th Annual Brew & Fall Fest (2019)
• The List – Spring Clean 15 Festival of Beers Preview & The List – Spring Clean 15 Festival of Beers (2020)
  • Revitalization was featured in this stay-at-home beer festival
• The List – Michigan Production Numbers 2020
  • Exferimentation was noted by the Brewers Association for brewing 70 barrels of beer in 2020.
  • Other breweries noted at 70 barrels in 2020 were Oracle Brewing Co in Saginaw and Traffic Jam & Snug in Detroit.

We at Better on Draft wish Eric and his crew happy trails as they exit the Michigan craft beer scene. During our visits to the brewery, we enjoyed the unique take on craft beer and the welcoming environment that was created.

Cheers!