Georgia Beer Co.: South Georgia’s Original Craft Brewery with Local Roots

Founded by Chris Jones and Jack “J. Ryce” Martin, Georgia Beer Co. opened in Valdosta in 2019 as one of South Georgia’s first craft breweries. It quickly became celebrated for its traditional styles and use of Georgia-grown ingredients.

Inside the taproom: Guests enjoy a welcoming atmosphere the founders hope feels like a “third space” apart from home and work where locals and visitors gather for events, tastings, and shared experiences centered around craft beer culture.

Historic roots: Housed in the former Valdosta Water Works building, the brewery rehabilitated and repurposed the space into its taproom, contributing to the revitalization of downtown Valdosta.

Regional influence: Georgia Beer Co. is a driving force in South Georgia’s craft beer landscape, fostering partnerships and industry growth across the region through locally sourced ingredients, growing product distribution, and participation in local festivals that encourages tourism and stimulates entrepreneurship.

Visit georgiabeerco.com to discover more about this 2026 Small Business ROCK STAR. 

About Small Business ROCK STAR Awards
The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), in partnership with the Georgia Economic Developers Association, created the Small Business ROCK STAR awards to recognize and commend the innovations, community engagement, and positive impact of the state’s small businesses. Visit georgia.org/rockstars to discover more outstanding Georgia small businesses, or learn how GDEcD services can support your Georgia-based small business through export, innovation, and expansion services.