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Whether wine, cider, beer, or spirits, Matson Consulting has been a part of the growing craft beverage industry, working with companies to help them take advantage of this particular market and expand their business.

Matson Consulting is dedicated to helping small agribusinesses who are looking to grow into new markets or add value to existing products, and the craft beverage industry is a leading example. We have worked to better understand this market and how it works in order to provide knowledgeable advice and guidance on all things craft beverage. Matson Consulting has completed feasibility studies, business plans, grant applications, and strategic planning for many different groups and individuals, helping to develop small craft beverage businesses.


For farmers looking to create or expand their winery, cidery, distillery, or other craft beverage business, the USDA’s Value-Added Producer Grant Program is a great funding source. For this program, the applicant must be producing over 50% of the commodity used to produce the beverage (i.e grapes in wine or apples in cider).


Click on one of the following links to see some of our published work on craft beverages.

“From Barley to Beer: A Guide for On Farm Brewing”

This document offers insight and guidance into how to establish and operate an on-farm brewery. The study highlights barley production, malting, brewing processes, industry background, and business structures. The document also includes financial projections for a prototypical brewing venture.  View “From Barley to Beer: A Guide for On Farm Brewing”

“Beyond Barrels & Bottles: A Spirited Guide for On Farm Distilling”

In this document, we created a guide for establishing a micro-distillery, detailing everything from the laws and regulations surrounding the process to the marketing of a final product. The document also includes financial projections for a prototypical distilling venture.  View “Beyond Barrels & Bottles: A Spirited Guide for On Farm Distilling.”

“Feasibility Study for A Small Farm Cidery in Nelson County, VA”

This study is an example of the specific feasibility study we have conducted for Nelson County, Virginia. This particular example shows the level of detail and assistance Matson Consulting provides as well as the knowledge we have to offer those who are in ( or who are interested in) the craft beverage industry. View “Feasibility Study for A Small Farm Cidery in Nelson County, VA.”