At the end of last year I did a research project identifying the ideal locations for new breweries and wineries in the United States. This was for one of my Geographic Information Systems (GIS) classes, and consequently I produced a couple of maps showing the results of my research and analysis.  I figured I could put the maps up here for anyone who might be interested in such information, and as my own record of what I had done.

The analysis used various data and is only accurate up to the year 2009, so updated maps could be created. Several assumptions were also made when outlining the criteria used; these criteria are listed under each map, and assumptions are detailed in the cartographic model. Click on the images for an enlarged view.

Ideal Locations for New Breweries

Criteria:

• – Public opinion supports new breweries (drunk driving fatalities per capita as proxy)
• – Near urban areas
• – Low State excise tax on beer
• – State allows self distribution of beer
• – Room for breweries in market (used breweries per capita as a proxy)

Ideal Locations for New Wineries

Criteria:

• – Public opinion supports new wineries (drunk driving fatalities per capita as proxy)
• – Near urban areas
• – Low State excise tax on wine
• – State allows self distribution of wine
• – Room for wineries in market (used wineries per capita as a proxy)
• – Climate capable of growing wine grapes

Cartographic Model

For those interested in the more technical aspects of the analysis, I’ve also included a copy of the cartographic model, or workflow diagram, for your pleasure.

Categories : beer, miscellaneous, political, wine
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