Nestled just outside of Pine Island, South by SouthEast Minnesota Brewing Co. has quickly become a gathering place for locals and a rising name across the region’s craft beer scene. Known for its commitment to traditional, approachable beer styles and its deep-rooted love for Southeast Minnesota, the brewery has positioned itself as more than just a place to grab a pint — it’s a community-focused business with a clear vision for growth. In the following interview, Ann Fahy-Gust shares the company's mission, brewing philosophy, and the story behind their new charitable initiative, The Giving Tap.
Q: Please describe the brewery and its overall goal.
Our goal is to be the regional brewery for SouthEast Minnesota, that provides traditional style, quality beer for every bar, restaurant and liquor store. We want our beer to be recognized no matter where you go. From the taps at the bar, to the labels in the cooler, and the taste in your glass, we strive to make sure that our beer is made with high quality ingredients and has a consistently great taste. We have 3 acres of outdoor space that is pet friendly to leashed, well-behaved pets. The taproom is pet free due to allergies.
Q: How would you describe your traditional beer style?
Our traditional style beer is approachable, balanced, and consistent. We achieve this without using extreme ingredients or flavorings, while reducing the environmental footprint of our business.
Q: What makes you different from other breweries in this region?
We believe our difference from other breweries in this region is our focus on a few core beers done with excellence and consistency. This allows our customers to recognize our beers no matter where they’re served. We have our focus on the entirety of Southeast Minnesota rather than an urban local focus on the surrounding metro areas. The reason for the focus on Southeast Minnesota is two parts. First, we live, work, and enjoy life in this region. Second, we love this area, its people and sense of place.
Q: Can you tell us about your new community program, The Giving Tap?
In May 2025, SouthEast Minnesota Brewing announced a new program designed to give back to local non-profits in the Pine Island area. It is called The Giving Tap. One dollar from every pint poured from that tap will go to the selected non-profit for that month. The program initiated with the Pine Island Fire Relief Association. The non-profit gets to select the beer that they would like to have for their Giving Tap. The tap is very noticeable on the tap line as the handle is burnished stainless steel with iridescent stained glass behind it. While the non-profits that are supported by the tap will rotate, and the beer poured through the tap will change as well, the commitment that South by SouthEast has to making a successful program for the Giving Tap is unwavering. We have been looking for ways to partner with non-profits in Pine Island by doing more than just writing a check. This program involves the non-profit as well as ourselves in making a successful program. Non-profit partners will have wall space in the taproom to advertise what they do and how they serve the community. They can host events or use their social media presence to drive awareness during their month.
Q: How has the program been received so far?
So far 7 non-profits have been featured and they have collectively earned almost $2,000. We are hoping the program becomes very popular and folks will look for the Giving Tap to support the local non-profits.
With quality beer and a strong focus on community, South by SouthEast Minnesota Brewing Co. is making its mark across the region. Through initiatives like The Giving Tap, the brewery continues to celebrate and support Southeast Minnesota, one pint at a time.
If you would like to be featured in our Community Spotlight, contact Shelby Quimby Edstrom at 507-824-1470.
