Now that I have found a favorite kombucha on the North Shore (Pigeon Cove Ferments in Gloucester), it was time to look south to find someplace to stop on the way to the Cape or (as turned out to be the case) was worth a trip on its own.

Independent Fermentations in Plymouth not only crafts creatively-flavored and gently-bubbled small-batch and medically-beneficial kombuchas that include ingredients like locally-sourced maple syrup and whole fruits (including their Fire Booch which offers not only gut health support but gentle sinus clearing as well), they also offer a wide range of hand-made beers including the cleverly-named Pilsnerd and the locally-inspired Plymouth Rocks New England IPA.

Speaking of home brew, IndieFerm also offers a wide range of tools and tips for homebrewers and have regular classes on making fermented foods like beer, kimchi, kombucha, mead, pickles, and even cheese. They also host classes and events outside of their taproom and store on Camelot Drive, including ukulele group meetings April 4 and 19, a sip and paint class April 12, and a foraging excursion on May 10. Perhaps event most fermented fans are looking forward to is the return of annual Pickle and Fermentation Festival which will take place this year on June 7 and feature make-your-own sauerkraut classes as well as live music (which is another frequent benefit of visits to the taproom) and more fermented family fun that is sure to help your health and happiness.

Who knew things that were good for you could be so much fun?!