Huntsville's First Brewhouse Opens Following Brewery Modernization Act

A little over a year ago a brewhouse like "Below the Radar" couldn't be found in Huntsville, because state law prohibited the selling of alcohol in establishments where it was produced.

"This is the first for Huntsville, Huntsville's first brew pub", said Below the Radar Manager, Meredith Carlton.

It was all made possible thanks to a grassroots organization called "Free the Hops".

"To walk into a place like Below the Radar, and think we had a part in making this happen, it's very exciting," said Free the Hops member Rich Vartain.

Free the Hops fought to get the law changed, and last summer when the brewery modernization act was signed, the group celebrated a victory.

"Since Free the Hops got the cap lifted, you've seen breweries open up all over the place. I think now we have 12 breweries open in Alabama," said Vartain.

Below the Radar, located on Holmes Ave. in downtown Huntsville, opened this week.

"I am thrilled about it. It's improving the downtown drastically. As an amateur home brewer, this place has inspired me. They have done a wonderful job. I think it's going to be a benefit for the town," said Customer Charles Winters.

The brewery portion of the building is still under construction. Below the Radar has plans to create 7 of its own brews by the end of the year.