Sergio Bonavita, brewmaster at The Westfield River Brewing Company, appeared before the The Board of Selectmen, who also act as the Liquor Commission, requesting the issuance of a new license, Farmer-Breweries, Farmer Wineries & Farm Distilleries for the relocation of his business at 707 College Highway in Southwick. (Photo by Frederick Gore)
SOUTHWICK – The Westfield River Brewing Company is one step closer to opening on College Highway following a license hearing Monday night.
Brewery owner Sergio Bonavita met with the Board of Selectmen to discuss his application for a Farmers Brewers, Farmers Winery, and Farmers Distillery license.
The brewery would be subject to state regulations for selling and serving alcohol, including having TIPS certified employees.
The license sought in Southwick would allow Westfield River Brewing Co. to offer two-ounce samples for free and sell pints and fill growlers for sale.
“The pouring permit allows us to pour our products for retail and consumption onsite,” said Bonavita.
The company was previously located in Westfield, and Bonavita said they were approved for the same license there.
The brewery plans to sell a sampler of four- and six-ounce beers, pints, growlers and six packs, plus free two-ounce samples.
This past spring The Westfield River Brewing Company began growing its own hops on land behind the property which is leased to them from John Whalley at their new location at 707 College Highway. The well-known former Chuck’s Steak House closed many years ago and was most recently home to the Southwick Feed Warehouse. ( Photo by Frederick Gore)
“Our objective is to have people come in and educate them about our product while they enjoy it,” Bonavita said.
Southwick Police Sgt. Robert Landis told selectmen he believes Bonavita is following the guidelines for brewing, serving and selling his product.
Landis said he had a few concerns about the outdoor patio space where Bonavita plans to serve but said those issues were being addressed.
Resident Jack Sinico said the brewery would “be a good thing” for the town.
Selectman Chairman Russell Fox asked what hours Bonavita hoped to be open.
“Monday through Sunday, noon to 10 p.m.,” he said.
Chief Administrative Officer Karl Stinehart asked if there would be brewing during those hours.
Bonavita said he is the brewmaster and he would begin brewing around 7 a.m. He also said they may not be open seven days a week, but he wanted the option.
Bonavita said he will have 10 taps, although he plans to start with six brews and focus on quality of beer over quantity.
The brewery will also have a home brew equipment shop on site.
Bonavita planted hops behind the brewery, which is the former Chuck’s Steak House, and has already been brewing in preparation for the opening.
“We just finished out Octoberfest,” he said.
The board tabled a vote until all members were present because Selectwoman Tracy Cesan was absent Monday.
Following the hearing Bonavita said he is hoping to open in October.
