Summer Workshop Series at Mare Island Taphouse

These evening workshops at Mare Island Brewing Co. – First Street Taphouse are all about fermenting, sipping, and socializing. Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned fermenter, this is your chance to explore bold flavors, create your own delicious ferments, and connect with like-minded food and beverage lovers!

🗓 Benicia Fermentory Summer Workshop Series
📍 Mare Island Taphouse, Benicia
🕕 Schedule: Wednesdays | 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM | June 11, 18 and 25
💵 Cost: $60 per class
🍷 Bonus: Mare Island Brewing Yardbird Club members get 10% off class tickets!

🍻 Join us early for Fermenter’s Happy Half Hour!
Mingle, grab a drink, and chat before we dive into fermentation fun.
🕡 Doors open at 6:30 PM | Class kicks off at 7:00 PM sharp

Class Schedule


June 11 – Mastering Vegetable Fermentation
This class covers the fundamentals of vegetable fermentation, guiding participants through crafting two classic probiotic-rich ferments: German Sauerkraut and Fermented Pickles. Attendees will also receive take-home equipment, including glass jars, fermentation lids, and handmade fermentation weights created at Happy Life Pottery in Benicia.

June 18 – Naturally Fizzy & Probiotic Drinks
Participants will learn to create naturally fizzy, probiotic-packed beverages such as Kombucha (with a SCOBY and starter tea provided), Ginger Bug Sodas, and Tepache. The class includes take-home equipment like glass jars, cloth lids, and all necessary fermentation starters.

June 25 – Fermented Condiments & Garnishes
This session focuses on crafting bold, probiotic-packed additions to meals, including Fermented Salsa and Moroccan Salt-Preserved Lemons. Attendees will receive glass jars, fermentation lids, and instructions to continue experimenting at home.

What to Expect:

  • Hands-On Learning – Gain practical fermentation skills you can use for a lifetime.
  • Take Home Equipment – Receive key equipment needed to continue your fermentation journey.
  • Multiple Handmade Ferments – Leave with jars of probiotic-rich foods made with local ingredients.
  • A Social Experience – Sip, ferment, and connect with fellow fermentation enthusiasts.

Meet Your Host:

Kelsey Bye
Kelsey Bye

Led by Kelsey Bye, a passionate fermentation enthusiast dedicated to sharing the joys of home fermentation. Not an expert—just someone who loves experimenting, learning, and bringing people together through food and drink.

“Together, let’s grow, ferment and thrive!” – Kelsey Bye, Chief Fermentation Officer, Benicia Fermentory.

Questions or want to learn more? Email: kelsey.bye@gmail.com