The Abnormal Wine Company is getting into the craft beer business.
The small Rancho Bernardo winery, opened two years ago by co-owners James Malone and Matt DeLoach, is expanding its operations to include a brewery and restaurant. The new 5,000-square-foot facility just off Rancho Bernardo Road is eyeing a mid-July opening, according to head brewer Derek Gallanosa.
A former brewer at Karl Strauss, Gallanosa said the Abnormal Beer Company will be brewing on a 10-barrel system and will feature classic styles, among them American Pale Ale and IPA.
“We want our beers to be very drinkable, not something that destroys your palate,” he said.
Mike Arquines, co-owner of the Lab Dining Sessions and Mostra Coffee, has been brought in as executive chef. With Arquines’ connections, Gallanosa said he also plans to make a coffee beer.
The brewery operation will be a prominent feature in the restaurant, situated behind the bar in an area enclosed by glass.
“It’s kind of like a human aquarium,” Gallanosa said. “I will be brewing right behind the tap handles when you walk in.”
Abnormal will have 40 taps, featuring local breweries along with Gallanosa’s creations. The first batches of Abnormal beer won’t be available until August.
The new brewery/winery/restaurant will change its name to AWC, which stands for Ale, Wine, Comforts. The trifecta of offerings – also included are a music stage, Chef’s table, wood-fired grill and in-house charcuterie – will give patrons plenty to choose from while providing AWC artisans an abundance of freedom with their creations.
“There’s a lot of potential to do a variety of different things,” Gallanosa said. “We want to sell an experience.”
AWC will have inside seating for approximately 150 people and also feature outside patio seating for up to 40.