Following last week’s announcement that Madhouse Brewing Company would be leaving Newton for just south of the East Village in downtown Des Moines, there has been speculation as to why.
Monday afternoon, Madhouse founder Mason Groben set the record straight, saying the inability to get a tap room at its current location led to the move.
“When Madhouse first started operations in Newton, Telecom was in the process of renovating the old Maytag buildings, and the brewery was excited to be a part of the revitalization of the area,” he said. “The company and buildings were soon after sold to Windstream Corp., however, and the building became nearly vacant. During this time, Madhouse was unable to host visitors and offer tours, due to our inability to have guests access our facility.”
Groben said that after the buildings were again sold, this time to a local investor, he attempted to negotiate for new rental agreement that would allow for a tap room at its current location. He said Madhouse and the property owner were never able to reach an agreement.
“The brewery therefore began looking in Des Moines for a suitable brewery location,” he said. “We were able to locate a building in the lower East Village area, and are excited to be able offer tours and tastings at our new location.”
Daily News Editor Bob Eschliman may be contacted at (641) 792-3121, ext. 423, or at beschliman@newtondailynews.com.