John Hart, a lifelong resident of Hopewell Township, is bringing something new to the community this fall with the opening of Needle Creek Farm Brewery on Titus Mill Road. The brewery, sited in Hart’s historic barn at John Hart Farms, will offer residents a chance to experience farming and brewing in one place.
Historic Farm with a New Purpose
The 76-acre farm has been Hart’s since 1986 and is the first preserved farm in Hopewell Township and the third in New Jersey. The brewery, named after Needle Creek, one of the streams that run through the property, will continue the farm’s current use while adding an agritourism dimension to its offerings.
A Blend of History and Modern Amenities
During a recent tour Hart, along with General Manager Gregg Marantz, shared plans for the brewery, which will operate out of a 3,700-square-foot barn. The structure is a piece of local history, with beams that have been installed over the years. One of the renovations even incorporates wood from an old barn on the farm where Hart’s father was born. Once used to house cows and hay, the structure now stands pristine with poured concrete floors, a vintage bar, and rustic high-top tables.
Commitment to Sustainability
Hart, also the owner of Rosedale Mills, emphasized the brewery’s commitment to sustainability, sharing that “we’re growing the barley right here on the farm, using the spent grain to feed our animals, and reusing wastewater from brewing to water the fields.” He added, “We’ll even be milling the grain onsite.”
Diverse Beer Offerings
With 12 taps, Needle Creek Farm Brewery will offer a range of beers, from light lagers to more robust options like double IPAs. Seasonal beers, such as pumpkin lagers in the fall, will also be on the menu – “Something for everyone,” said Marantz.
Brewmaster Justin Colatrella will be at the helm, using the Peter Austin Brick Kettle Brewing system, a traditional method known for its open fermentation process.
Marantz described Colatrella as “creative and hands-on, qualities that are essential for this unique farm-to-glass brewing process.” He added, “We’re excited to have him on the team and are ready to create a truly special beer destination. Justin is eager to brew beers that reflect the farm’s character and cater to the community’s tastes.”
A Community Hub in the Making
The team is eager to make Needle Creek Farm Brewery a true community hub, focusing not only on great beer but also on farm education and community involvement.
“We want this to be a place where families, beer enthusiasts, and farm lovers can all come together,” Marantz said. The brewery will offer something for everyone, including beer, non-alcoholic drinks, ice cream, fresh fruits and vegetables, and items from the farm’s general store. Visitors will also find brewery merchandise available in the taproom, offering a way to bring a bit of the farm experience home.
While the farm will continue its regular operations, the brewery adds a new way for the community to connect with the land. “The farm will always be here,” Hart said. “The brewery just gives us another way to share it with our neighbors.”
An official opening date for Needle Creek Farm Brewery has not been set yet, but updates will be shared through MercerMe, so stay tuned.
