Rites Brewing Brings Ancient Techniques Back to Bay Shore

Rites Brewing launched earlier this year in Bay Shore in the space once occupied by TBC Beer Company, and the new operation has centered its identity on traditional brewing craft. Founder and brewer Chris Dougherty installed a vintage 7 barrel Peter Austin system and built wood clad open fermentation vessels to make open fermentation and krausening foundational components of the brewery workflow.

On tap during a recent taproom visit were a German style kellerbier, a Belgian saison, and a British style dark mild served on nitro. Rites is packaging some beers in cans and selling them in four packs to give locals a convenient take home option. The brewery positions itself as a New York State farm brewery and is sourcing local malts. Management pairs the on site beer program with wines and spirits from nearby producers to present a regional beverage roster rather than a single focus.

Dougherty brings homebrewing roots and local brewing experience to the project, and the taproom renovation was completed to accommodate the vintage system and the brewerys programming goals. The wood clad fermenters are visible in the renovated space, creating a tangible link between production and pour while offering visitors a chance to see open fermentation in action where feasible. Plans emphasize process driven beers and community oriented events that will use the taproom as a meeting place for tastings and education.

For local brewers and drinkers the practical value is clear. Open fermentation and krausening influence flavor and attenuation in ways that differ from modern sealed systems, and seeing those methods in practice offers a learning opportunity for homebrewers and professionals alike. Sourcing local malts strengthens regional supply chains and gives consumers beers that reflect nearby farms. Cans in four packs and an accessible taproom make it easy to sample these traditional styles at home or in company.

Rites Brewing adds a stylistic and educational voice to Long Islands craft scene by reviving time honored techniques, supporting regional grain farmers, and giving Bay Shore a taproom where production and community intersect.