Craft Beer in Vermillion South Dakota: Discover XiX Brewing

Exploring Craft Beer in Vermillion South Dakota

The Birth of XiX Brewing

The number of craft beer options continues to grow across the United States, and Vermillion, South Dakota, has now joined the trend. This city, home to the University of South Dakota, now boasts its own craft brewery thanks to the opening of XiX (Nineteen) Brewing. Until last November, Vermillion had no such establishments. XiX Brewing was started by two former Watertown residents, Ed Gerrish and Katey Ulrich, right in downtown Vermillion.

What’s in a Name?

XiX Brewing’s name has an interesting origin. “Nineteen” comes from the license plate number of cars registered in Clay County, where Vermillion is located. The brewery adopted Roman numerals for their logo, leading many to refer to it as “X-i-X Brewing,” which owner Ed Gerrish finds perfectly acceptable.

The XiX Brewing Experience

XiX Brewing offers a variety of beverages including IPAs, ales, sours, Belgian blondes, wheat beers, pilsners, hard seltzers, and even non-alcoholic root beer. Their craft beer in Vermillion South Dakota is making waves locally. XiX’s products can be found in about 20 bars and restaurants across Eastern South Dakota, with expectations of further growth.

A Growing Local Presence

Recent events like the brewery’s first “tap takeover” at the Sandbar in Watertown have been a significant hit. They managed to sell out of the four beers they brought, signaling positive business prospects for XiX Brewing.

Meet the Owners

Ed Gerrish, co-owner of XiX Brewing, also serves as an associate professor of public administration at USD. His wife Katey Ulrich manages marketing for the brewery. The couple also owns two other businesses on Vermillion’s Main Street: The Bean Community Coffee House and Cow & Spoon ice cream shop.

XiX Brewing, along with these other businesses, contributes to a vibrant downtown Vermillion brewing scene.

Community Ties

Interestingly, the co-owners didn’t know each other while growing up in Watertown, despite their families attending the same church. Their bond formed after both moved to Vermillion, demonstrating how small-town connections can lead to remarkable ventures.

Brewery Operating Hours

XiX Brewing’s taproom has welcoming hours:

• Monday – Thursday: 3 PM – 10 PM
• Friday – Saturday: 2 PM – 11 PM
• Sunday: Noon – 6 PM

Looking Ahead

The craft beer scene in Vermillion South Dakota is just beginning to make its mark. XiX Brewing is not only a new business but part of a broader trend in South Dakota craft breweries enhancing local culture. With community support and growing popularity, XiX Brewing has a promising future ahead.