Our local Richmond Times-Dispatch ran an article on Legend Brewery’s upcoming expansion, which will see the addition of some more fermenting and storage tanks as well as a bottling line. But the heart of the article focused on the alcoholic beverage market and beer’s chances to weather the storm during these times of economic uncertainty.

The article cites the acquisition of Anheuser-Busch by InBev, which is already shutting the doors on some of its satellite operations in order to cut costs. And the author briefly touches on what many beer lovers are probably asking themselves:  what’s going to happen to my local microbrewery?

For Legend, things may not look so bad. They’re a Richmond institution that’s getting its product out all over the state, and one that’s celebrating its 15th year of existence on February 8th, by the way. Not only that, but they’re able to increase their capacity in addition to carrying quality beers through Legendary Distributors Limited. As long as people keep picking up their beers at the grocery store, or stopping by their restaurant for a pint and a plate, they should do alright.

But they’re not immune to market conditions. With consumers understandably becoming more cautious, going out to eat and drink may not be as high a priority for most people as it once was. But people still need to have fun, still have that stress release from the everyday tedium of their daily lives. With the markup on food and drink these venues charge just to turn a profit, it may get to the point where people have to learn to cook for themselves (and brew their own beer!). While that may be good from a health standpoint, it may have some unintended consequences for the local places we know and love.

Regardless, it’d be a shame to see a place that has anchored itself in South Richmond, just across the James River from Downtown, end up sleeping with the fishes. Is this what 2009 has in store for several eating and drinking establishments in the area? Could be. But if good beer and good times are what matter to consumers, and people take pride in the haunts that help make up the local zeitgeist, then Legend should do quite alright.

And if you don’t feel like visiting their pub but want to drink at home, you’ll soon be able to grab six-packs of their stuff if the 22oz. bombers aren’t your thing.

On February 8th, from 3 to 10pm, Legend will be hosting its 15th Anniversary celebration. Already on tap is the 15th Anniversary Quad they brewed (hats off to Ed for the tip). If I can get over there this week, I’ll let you know how it is.