School pride pervades many college graduates, and those from Luther College in Decora are no exception. In fact, this love for Norse helped fuel the idea of the Pulpit Rock Brewing Company, which opened its doors a mile from campus in 2015 for the first time.
Scott Nodding has been the brewery’s general manager for about six years. He described the loyalty that brought investors together to make this dream a reality.
“Our brewery is owned by a small group of investors, most of whom are from one family, all affiliated with Luther College, Decora,” Nadding said. “Our founders loved the Decora community so much that they asked themselves what business could inspire that meaning and give it a chance to give back.”
Although most investors do not currently live in the area, Nading said, “their relationship with Luther and the Decora community is deep, and they are often found here.”
Pulpit Rock proudly makes and serves a wide variety of beers, an ever-rotating menu that has featured over 100 beers since the brewery opened.
“We make a variety of styles, from traditional beer to weird contemporary options,” Nadding said. “Our pastry source and stout are well known. A pastry style is infused with countless fruits, nuts, baked goods, cookies, candies and other sweets.
“Another recognition of Norway is an interesting example of seasonal diversity. Juliol is a spice made from juniper, sage and bay leaves and is aged in gin barrels. It is released in December every year.
Currently, you can find anything on the tap from Rhyme Animal IPA to Smarshmallow Pastry Sour and Power-over Porter, and more options are available in cans, including Raisin & Resin American Amber Lay, Sunshine, Swimsuits and Frozen Sour. Dream of the hot days to come.
The brewery operating in the converted dairy barn compliments the past while creating a modern atmosphere.
“Our facility is a strange place with a clean Nordic-inspired design,” Nadding said. “The music is curated by the staff’s bartenders, and the vibe of ‘Welcome to All’, a public hometown, spreads throughout the tap room. We have a spacious outdoor patio that is a huge success during the hot months.
About Pulpit Rock Brewing Company in Decora
Address: 207 College Drive, Decora
Phone: (563) 380-3610
Website: pulpitrockbrewing.net
Distance from Des Moines: 203 miles
Hours: 2-8 Monday, 2-10 Tuesday-Thursday, 11pm Friday, Saturday, 8pm Sunday.
Name: “Decora has a very strong Norwegian heritage. Prikestolan is a well-known landmark near Stavanger, Norway, and its translation is Pulpit Rock, “Nadding said. The name is a tribute to the mother of our president who was born near Stavanger.
Do not forget about food: “People are welcome to bring their own food and snacks or order something. Our sister business, landing market, is right next door with many delicious options and they will bring them to your table,” Nadding said.
Children (Pets): Children are welcomed in the taproom and courtyard, accompanied by adults. They even offer Spring Grove sodas. During the warmer months, lazy pets are welcome in the backyard, but not inside the tap room.
Events: Almost every Friday at 7pm, you can listen to live music on Pulpit Rock. Follow them on Facebook for upcoming events. In Nading’s opinion, they will save the August 20 date for an annual event that will “pull all stops”.
When you are there: “We need to travel alone with our natural surroundings in the beautiful driftless area of NE Iowa,” Nadding said. Experience the beauty of boating, kayaking, biking or hiking. You can even participate in world class trout fishing. Decora itself is not a place to be missed. “An energetic city without even a single storefront offers great shopping and a great way to spend a day,” Nadding said.