The link, to a Facebook post from Mitch Steele.
The paragraph (not certain how much of the rest of the post is generally available):
After 9+ years at New Realm, I have moved to an advisory role with them, and so I’m now looking for other opportunities. This happened a couple of months ago, and I’ve kept it fairly quiet, while I was traveling for beer industry things, dealing with some family projects, and trying to sort out in my mind what I wanted to do.
As one person wrote in the comments: If there’s ever been a bellwether to the state of the crafts beer industry, it’s Mitch freaking Steele job hunting.
This made me nostalgic for his time at Stone. I miss Old Guardian and their Russian Imperial Stout, and both versions of Ruination, and Arrogant Bastard (which has vanished from the shelves locally unless I go to a beer/wine/spirits superstore). I never had any of his work at New Realm (not being near the places it exists) but wish I had. Much of the beer in the newer styles that have gained popularity in the past decade or so leave me cold, but I bet if he were working in those styles, his work would win me over. Best of fortune to him with whatever he decides to do next.
I’m sorry to see him go, but have been utterly disappointed by New Realm. I live in Atlanta, have visited the brewpub multiple times since opening week, and tried many of their canned offerings and always come away with “meh”. Little flavor, depth, or anything interesting. I always loved his work at Stone, so have been mystified at what the New Realm folks are doing. Stan, if there are particular offerings you’d recommend, I’m all ears.
Hi Mark — It has been 4 years since we left Atlanta (yikes!), so I don’t think I can address what the beer is like these days. They opened about the time we moved there, and then I usually ordered the clear IPAs and one-off lagers when we were there. Beyond the beer (styles, what interests you or other customers) itself, this is part of a bigger business story I will leave others to write.