Chris Compton
Chris got his start in the brewery when it was known as Harrison Hollow in 1993. He was eager to learn the process of brewing and knew he always liked a good beer. Chris apprenticed under Jim Fishwild (head brewer at the time) & Ben Brownell (assistant brewer). It was here that he learned all about basic brew theory.
For Chris, some of his favorite moments when brewing are simple… he enjoys watching the fermentation process begin, that’s when he knows the beer is active. Or when the challenge of creating a flavor profile becomes a tasty reality. But what especially drives Chris to continue brewing is all the feedback and support from our community. He attributes this validation to his success, “just to know that you have made a great beer,” is what he loves most about brewing.
His expectations for the Hollow and the growing craft beer movement are humbling. Chris envisions the majority of tap handles being occupied by local craft beer. “The bigger the brewing community grows the stronger we all become.” It encourages brewers to challenge themselves and to be innovative. The basic formula for brewing is pretty simple. “It’s the creativity during the process that makes a good beer stand out.” Chris’ number one motto for brewing is quality. “You only do it the right way or you don’t do it at all.”
I asked Chris if he were stranded on an island what beer would he have and he replied “a damn good Pale Ale.” He would also like to bring his lovely wife Tracy and his golf clubs…
Cheers, to one of Boise’s longest standing brewers in the community!
We love you Chris
~The Hollow
