<![CDATA[SD BEER | Capital of Craft Beer | San Diego Brewers Guild

<![CDATA[SD BEER | Capital of Craft Beer | San Diego Brewers Guild - Learn + Discover]]>Tue, 28 Jul 2026 12:04:25 -0700EditMySite<![CDATA[San Diego Pucks & Pints Brewery Hockey Festival is Back!]]>Tue, 07 Mar 2023 23:16:24 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/san-diego-pucks-pints-brewery-hockey-festival-is-back

SAN DIEGO, CA (March 7, 2023) - Pucks & Pints, one of the most anticipated charity sports and beer events held in San Diego is back for a fifth year! The festivities kick off on April 8th, 2023, at Pechanga Arena San Diego. This epic hockey-focused day includes a Brewers’ Hockey Game, Beer and BBQ festival at Modern Times featuring Phil’s BBQ and local craft beers, and entrance to the San Diego Gulls vs. Calgary Wranglers hockey game.

“Pucks & Pints originated with colleagues in the brewing industry from Societe Brewing, Stone Brewing, and Thorn Brewing, all long-time hockey players, combining their passion for craft brewing and hockey to provide charitable good.” Todd Webster from Thorn Brewing explains. “What has transpired with the event's growth in a short time is amazing. This year marks our 5th Pucks & Pints event, and with our new partnership with Modern Times Brewing, the excitement and energy has grown to an entirely new level,” Webster continues. “The brewing community and our sponsors continue to rally to elevate the celebration of hockey, craft beer, and charity, with even more brewery involvement, delicious food donated by Phil's BBQ, and exciting action from the San Diego Gulls. All of this effort culminates in raising awareness and supporting our worthy charities that are so critical to the communities of San Diego.”

All of the proceeds from the event support four local charities, Emilio Nares Foundation, Boys & Girls Clubs of San Diego, ResQue Ranch, and the San Diego Brewers Guild.

"As a local hockey player and a long-time Craft Beer professional/enthusiast, I couldn't be more excited about our involvement in this event.” Justin Brunda from Modern Times states. “With our Modern Times Lomaland taproom being across the street from Pechanga Arena, we thought it was a great opportunity to share some of our resources and space, support our local community and share in this effort with our San Diego Beer brothers and sisters."

Tickets for Pucks & Pints are only $60 and include the brewers’ hockey game, BBQ and beer at Modern Times on Kurtz St, and the Gulls vs. Calgary Wranglers hockey game. For more information, please reach out to info@pucksnpints.com or head over to https://pucksnpints.com or get your tickets here: https://bit.ly/pucksandpints5.

About Pucks & Pints
Pucks & Pints is a charity hockey event created in 2018 by hockey-loving beer industry insiders. While the main breweries organizing the event are Thorn Brewing, Stone Brewing, Societe Brewing, and Modern Times/Maui Brewing, the event is 100% volunteer based with support from breweries all over San Diego.

]]><![CDATA[Fun, Punk, and Experimental - Plan 9 Alehouse in Escondido]]>Thu, 23 Feb 2023 18:16:13 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/fun-punk-and-experimental-plan-9-alehouse-in-escondido

What makes Plan 9 stand out from other breweries is that they don’t just stick to traditional styles of beer. Located on Grand Avenue in Escondido, Plan 9 has an exciting portfolio of experimental beers that are constantly rotating, so no matter how often you come, there will always be something new to try!

Their delicious food menu features pub-style favorites like burgers and sandwiches. The wide selection of homemade hot sauces, everything from mild and savory to extremely hot and spicy, is not to be missed. California Creaper is a clear standout!

With its punk rock vibes and friendly staff, Plan 9 Alehouse will quickly become your new favorite place to grab a beer!

Beers to Try:
Astro Zombies - Hazy IPA - ABV: 6.7%
Daywalker - Irish Red Ale - ABV: 4.9%
Zombies of the Strata-sphere - Hazy IPA - ABV: 7.7%

Website: http://www.plan9alehouse.com

📍 Find them at 155 E Grand Ave Escondido, CA 92025

🍻 Sunday - Monday: Closed
🍻 Tuesday - Thursday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
🍻 Friday - Saturday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

]]><![CDATA[Six East San Diego County Breweries You Need to Visit]]>Wed, 08 Feb 2023 21:17:22 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/six-east-san-diego-county-breweries-you-need-to-visit

If you're looking for a great day trip out of San Diego, why not check out some of East County's craft breweries? From 13 Point Brewing Co. to BNS Brewing & Distilling, there's something for everyone. So grab your friends and get ready for a day of beer-tasting fun.

East Country, San Diego Breweries:

13 Point Brewing Co.
13 Point Brewing was founded by long-time friends Bob Frank and Robert Bessone, who had been home-brewing together for years. Formed in 2006 and opened in 2019, 13 Point Brewing is the first brewery established in Lemon Grove and has become a staple of the local beer scene.

The Llama Pale Ale is the perfect summer beer, refreshing and light yet packed with citrus flavor in every sip. This unfiltered finish gives it a slightly hazy look that makes it pleasing to drink - an ideal choice for any hot day!

February 11th marks their 4th Anniversary Party, where they will release their Anniversary beer - Melody & Harmony, a whiskey, barrel-aged Brown Ale. Be on the lookout for their Annual Cornhole tournament, which will be held in April this year. If you're a fan of lobster, be sure to drop by on the 16th of February for Cousins Main Lobster food truck. So, stop by and help them celebrate if you're in the area!

Website: http://13pointbrewing.com
Location: 8035 Broadway Ln, Lemon Grove, CA 91945
Hours:

Monday: Closed
Tuesday - Thursday: 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Friday - Saturday: 2:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Sunday 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Helix Brewing Co.
Founded by Cameron Ball, a local San Diegan from La Mesa, Helix Brewing Company is a craft brewery that focuses on bringing quality beer to the community. After studying engineering in San Luis Obispo (SLO), this enthusiastic individual decided to pursue his passion for homebrewing back home and opened Helix in 2015.

Helix Brewing strives to keep things fresh and fun, reflected in their weekly events and beer. At Helix, you can experience live music on Friday and Saturday nights, Music Bingo every Thursday, and a daily rotating food truck.

Helix has an impressive sour beer project called Sourworx which features 100% barrel-fermented sour beers, with over 175 wine barrels aging their delicious sour beer. If IPAs are more your style, try Stoner Moment IPA, their most popular beer. Look forward to an upcoming release of a New Zealand IPA with Nelson and Nectaron hops call N&N's, including tweaks to fan favorites to keep pushing the limits of local craft beer.

Website: https://drinkhelix.com
Location: 8101 Commercial St, La Mesa, CA 91942
Hours:

Monday - Thursday: 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Friday - Saturday: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Bolt Brewery
Bolt Brewery goes way back. It was established in 1987 by Clint Stromberg, an original San Diego brewer with years of experience and expertise under his belt. The brewery operated until 1989 but was re-established 25 years later when Clint met Molly Rust, a businesswoman and entrepreneur. Having shared plans for Bolt’s revival, the two opened the new location in December 2014.

The La Mesa beer garden hosts live music, comedy, and food trucks every week. It was Clint’s idea to build out the beer garden using repurposed sea cargo containers, which took several months to put together. If you visit Bolt Brewery, Stairway to Hazyville, a Hazy IPA, is their most popular beer.

Don’t miss out on their special events scheduled every month. For more details, visit their website for upcoming events and follow them on their social to be up to date on everything Bolt Brewing.

Website: https://boltbr ewery.com
Location: 8179 Center St La Mesa, CA 91942
Hours:

Monday - Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday - Thursday: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Friday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Burning Beard Brewing Co.
Creativity, innovation, and punk rock have always been hallmarks of The Beard. Burning Beard pushes boundaries and takes chances by doing things differently. Co-founders Jeff and Mike hatched the idea to open a brewery in 2013, and plans slowly took shape over the next three years. On February 29, 2016, Burning Beard Brewing finally opened its doors to the public, and it continues to deliver quality, expertly crafted San Diego beer to the community.

Punkspeare's Brasserie is their in-house eatery and fan-favorite burger and fries joint that has recently added BBQ to their menu, pairing well with their craft beer selection. Help them celebrate seven years in business this April 15. Partake in their live music, eat good food, engage in some tomfoolery, and drink craft beer!

BRB American Light Lager and New Damage Hazy IPA are their consistent top sellers. Be on the lookout for the release of Garage Days IPA - IYKYK!

Website: https://burningbeardbrewing.com
Location: 785 Vernon Way, El Cajon, Ca 92020
Hours:

Monday - Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thursday - Saturday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Pacific Islander Beer Co.
Pacific Islander Beer Company was founded in 2014 by Ku'uipo, Bob, and Will. With Will's expertise as a homebrewer, the trio set out to create a brewery that would celebrate the spirit of the Pacific Islands with every beer they brewed.

The Islander Spirit comes from Will and Ku'uipo, who strive to make each beer a unique experience. Their most popular beers, such as Mo'Bettah, Li'ke Li'ke, Da Kine, Tahitian Brown, Sunset Red, and Local Style beers, are a testament to Will's skillful brewing.

Pacific Islander Beer Company is more than just a brewery – it's an experience. Be sure to bring the family every Thursday for Bingo and the third Sunday of every month for a Parking Lot Car Show. The second Sunday of each month is a Tent Craft Fair, and don't forget about Taco Tuesday – featuring all-you-can-eat tacos, rice, and beans. Hit up Pacific Islander Beer Company and experience the Islander Spirit today!

Website: http://www.pibbeer.com
Location: 8665 Argent St, Suite B, Santee, CA 92071
Hours:

Monday: Closed
Tuesday - Thursday: 4:00 PM – 8:00  PM
Friday: 2:00 PM – 9:00  PM
Saturday: 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Sunday: 2:00 PM – 7:00  PM

BNS Brewing & Distilling Co.
BNS Brewing is a local brewery and taproom that serves top-quality craft beer and alcohol, including whiskey and bourbon. The outdoor area has a stage for live music and comedy shows, including a distillery, and plenty of room for outdoor seating. During the week, BNS Brewing hosts events and fun activities such as trivia nights, live music, line dancing lessons, and karaoke!

There are also plenty of games to keep you and your buddies entertained, including cornhole and pool. The taproom has an old western theme, reflected in the names of the beers they serve and the decor that adorns their walls. Stop by BNS Brewing any night of the week - you'll feel at home with good company, drinks, and games!

Website: https://www.instagram.com/bnsbrewinganddistilling
Location: 10960 Wheatlands Ave Ste 101 Santee, CA 92071
Hours:

Monday - Wednesday: 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Thursday: 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Friday - Saturday: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM

San Diego has fantastic craft breweries and taprooms, each with unique offerings. Whether you're looking to experience live music or enjoy a cold beer in an inviting atmosphere, these six spots will provide the perfect backdrop for your next outing. So come on down and join us at one (or all!) of these local favorites - we'll raise our glasses together and cheers the San Diego's craft brewing scene!

]]><![CDATA[2022 San Diego Brewery Spotlights]]>Fri, 27 Jan 2023 19:27:54 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/2022-san-diego-brewery-spotlights

Looking for the best craft beer in San Diego? Check out our Brewery Spotlight series, where we feature some of the top breweries in SD. Cheers to all the amazing San Diego breweries we showcased in 2022!

🍻 Embolden Beer Co.
🍻 Hopnonymous Brewing Co.
🍻 Kilowatt Brewing
🍻 NOVO Brazil Brewing Co.
🍻 South O Brewing Co.
🍻 3 Punk Ales Brewing Co.
🍻 Culver Beer Co.
🍻 Chula Vista Brewery
🍻 Five Suits Brewing Co

For those of you who haven't yet, be sure to give them a try and support the incredible efforts of these craft beer makers.

]]><![CDATA[San Diego Brewers Guild Names Board of Directors And Event Dates For 2023]]>Thu, 12 Jan 2023 23:04:18 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/san-diego-brewers-guild-names-board-of-directors-and-event-dates-for-2023Belching Beaver’s Haley Smith named President; San Diego Beer Week scheduled for November 3-12

San Diego, Calif. – San Diego Brewers Guild, a nonprofit 501(c)(6) organization that promotes local small businesses and entrepreneurs of craft beer, this week appointed its Board of Directors for the 2023 calendar year and determined event dates. Belching Beaver Brewery Director of Marketing Haley Smith was named President, and the 15th-Annual San Diego Beer Week will take place November 3-12. Executive Director Paige McWey Acers made the announcements.

The complete 2023 Board of Directors (also here)
President – Haley Smith, Belching Beaver Brewery
President Emeritus – Rick Chapman, Coronado Brewing Co.
Vice President – Jake Nunes, Burgeon Beer Company
Treasurer – Bryan Carpenter, LevitZacks CPA
Secretary – Chris Leguizamon, Pure Project
Director – Erik Fowler, White Labs Brewing Co.
Director – Tim Parker, Chula Vista Brewery
Director – Marc Martin, Thorn Brewing Co.
Director – John McMullen, Resident Brewing Co.

Smith assumes the role of President after last year serving as Vice President and Secretary. She replaces Coronado Brewing’s Chapman. Burgeon Beer’s Jake Nunes was appointed Vice President after serving as a Director in 2022. LevitZacks’s Carpenter has served as Treasurer since 2016. White Labs’s Fowler and Chula Vista’s Parker return for their second year as Directors. Pure Project’s Leguizamon joins the board for the first time and has been appointed secretary. Thorn’s Martin and Resident’s McMullen are first-time board members as Directors.

“There is certainly no shortage of beer knowledge on our 2023 Board,” McWey Acers said. “Haley is a superstar within the industry and I am excited to see her lead a talented group of board members, representing all member breweries in America’s Finest City and The Capital of Craft ™.”

San Diego beer events include:
2nd-Annual SD Beer Weekend – June 9-11
45th-Annual Homebrew Con – June 22-24
*Produced by American Homebrewers Association
San Diego Craft Beer Con – August date TBD
9th-Annual Brewers Guild Golf Tournament – September 7
15th-Annual San Diego Beer Week – November 3-12

The Brewers Guild also sponsors a Tap Into Knowledge educational series throughout the year, and the first event on January 25 is “New Year, New Laws” to discuss how the State of California’s new laws affect breweries as employers, as well as changes to Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) laws.

Individual brewery events are posted on the Brewers Guild’s calendar.

“The craft beer industry is still recovering from the pandemic and there is a lot of work to do,” Smith said. “But I embrace the challenge, look forward to helping all our member breweries, and make sure one of the nationwide beer spotlights remains on San Diego.”

San Diego County is known as The Capital of Craft™, a moniker that was trademarked in 2015. San Diego has the most craft brewery locations among all counties in the United States with more than 150. The Brewers Guild, which is celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2022, was founded in 1997 with 15 breweries.

]]><![CDATA[2022 San Diego Brewers Guild Year In Review]]>Wed, 14 Dec 2022 08:00:00 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/2022-san-diego-brewers-guild-year-in-reviewAs the nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting independent craft beer manufacturers in San Diego County, the San Diego Brewers Guild (SDBG) has much to celebrate when looking back at its accomplishments in 2022. The programming spearheaded by SDBG is made possible through support from its brewery members, community partners, craft beer patrons and more.

Here’s a look back at some of the key accomplishments of the San Diego Brewers Guild in 2022:

Hosted 14 events, education seminars, and more to support craft beer business owners
Celebrating 25 years, SDBG hosted anniversary events, including SD Beer Weekend, the return of Guild Fest to kick-off SD Beer Week, and the Beer Garden at The Lodge at Torrey Pines. SDBG organized SD Craft Beer Con, its 8th Annual Golf Tournament, eight Tap Into Knowledge educational seminars (i.e. - Brewing for Competition, DIY Social Media for Small to Medium-sized Breweries & Brewpubs and Financial Distress in the Craft Beer Industry), and more.

To learn more about SDBG event opportunities with its members, email info@sdbeer.com.

Led marketing, PR campaigns, and public events promoting San Diego as the Capital of Craft™
SDBG conducted numerous marketing campaigns to promote awareness and increase the visibility of fresh locally brewed beer in San Diego.

As a result, these are a few marketing highlights:

Reached 1.2m+ craft beer fans through its social media channels
Garnered 115+ media placements from publications, January - December 2022
127.3k+ page views and 48k+ unique visitors to sdbeer.com in 2022
Nearly 1,000 brewery and tasting room events uploaded to the sdbeer.com community events calendar

View 2022 media placements.

More than $25,000 raised for SDBG via events and member programs
SDBG is immensely grateful to its brewery and affiliate members, who come up with inventive ways to support the organization’s efforts. This year, SDBG received more than $25,000 from special collaboration beers, like 2022 Capital of Craft IPA made possible by BSG, White Labs Inc., Canworks and Pizza Port Brewing Co., SD Beer Weekend Pint Program through Boelter Beverage Co., SD Beer Hop Blend by BSG and other one-of-a-kind fundraising events like Burgeon's 5th Anniversary Invitational and Pucks & Pints 4, a local charity brewer hockey match.

The Board of Directors continued its efforts to improve the well-being of the craft beer industry
The SDBG Code of Conduct was released. In partnership with the National Conflict Resolution Center, SDBG offered two special training opportunities for its membership:

The Bystander Challenge: Bystander Intervention & Anti-Harassment Training focuses on empowering bystander communication and builds on tools that work to help employees gain confidence in conducting these difficult conversations.
The Art of Inclusive Communication helps participants explore their own personal and cultural identity and learn how it relates to communication style; how these different styles can sometimes be the root of communication breakdown; and, most importantly, how they can learn to recognize when a communication breakdown is happening and do something about it.

San Diego is home to some of the best craft breweries in the world, and the San Diego Brewers Guild is dedicated to promoting and supporting its local craft breweries. Thanks to everyone for supporting San Diego’s independent craft brewing community. Cheers to another great year in the Capital of Craft™!

]]><![CDATA[San Diego Named Site for 2023 Homebrew Con]]>Mon, 12 Dec 2022 08:00:00 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/san-diego-named-site-for-2023-homebrew-con45th-annual home brewing conference and competition to take place June 22-24 at Town and Country Resort in Mission Valley

San Diego, CA – San Diego has been named the site for 2023 Homebrew Con, an educational homebrewing conference and competition featuring more than 2,000 amateur and pro brewers. The 45th annual event, put on by the Brewers Association and American Homebrewers Association, will take place June 22-24 at the Town and County Resort in Mission Valley. San Diego Brewers Guild Executive Director Paige McWey Acers made the announcement.

“I am excited with a capital ‘E’ that the Capital of Craft will be the host of the next Homebrew Con,” said Brewers Guild Executive Director Paige McWey Acers. “This event is quite special for both professionals and amateurs within the industry. It nourishes and helps everyone flourish.”

The three-day conference will consist of more than 50 speakers from the craft beer industry throughout the Unites States and it will encompass eight tracks: Beer Styles, Brewing Process, Homebrewing Culture, New to Homebrewing, Beyond Beer, Clubs & Competitions, Ingredients & Adjuncts, and Quality & Sensory.

The National Homebrew Competition is the world’s largest amateur homebrew competition celebrating the most outstanding beer, mead, and cider. There will be nine regional judging sites across the US in the spring that will determine which brews advance to Homebrew Con in San Diego.

Eight San Diego amateur brewers won medals at the 2022 competition in Pittsburgh, including three who finished in first place: Doug Brown in the Pilsner category (146 entries), Billy Lampert with Theresa Wilks in the American Porter & Stout category (86 entries), and Scott Voak in the Spice Mead category (24 entries).

Second place finishers in 2022 were Brown in the Dark European Lager category (108 entries), Jared Rowley in the Irish Stout category among (36 entries), and Robert Knipper in the Strong American Ale category (76 entries). Third place winners were Brown in the Pale Malty European Beer category (110 entries), Dan Stoneman in the British Stout category with Brown (48 entries), Josh Arnold in the Amber European Beer category (110 entries), and Eric Bridges in the American IPA category (117 entries). Homebrew Con is returning to American’s Finest City for the first time since 2015 and for just the third time overall; also in 2011.

San Diego County is known as The Capital of Craft™, a moniker that was trademarked in 2015. San Diego has the most craft brewery locations among all counties in the United States with more than 150. The Brewers Guild, which has celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2022, was founded in 1997 with 15 breweries.

San Diego Brewers Guild, which organizes Beer Week, is a nonprofit 501(c)(6) organization that promotes local small businesses and entrepreneurs of craft beer via education, events, and community involvement.

]]><![CDATA[Hopnonymous: The Brewery You'll Love to Discover]]>Wed, 30 Nov 2022 08:00:00 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/hopnonymous-the-brewery-youll-love-to-discover

Hopnonymous is a monument to ambitious and delicious craft beer. When you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a vast selection of craft beer created by head brewer Hunter, including recognizable and classic styles alongside bold and innovative new ones.

And if you have any questions, Remi, the founder of Hopnonymous, is more than happy to chat all things beer! His excitement and passion for craft beer will remind you what craft beer is all about - the joy of exploration and discovering the perfect craft brew. We hope you get a chance to visit soon!

Beers to try:⁠
Slammin SD - Hazy IPA - ABV: 7.2%⁠
Two Amigos - Mexican Lager - ABV: 4.9%⁠
Iris & The Giant Peach- IPA - ABV: 7%⁠

Website: https://www.hopnonymousbrewing.com

📍 Find them at 7705 Convoy Court, San Diego, CA 92111
⁠⁠⁠
🍻 Monday - Thursday: 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM
🍻 Friday - Saturday: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM
🍻 Sunday: 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM

]]><![CDATA[2022 Capital of Craft IPA]]>Wed, 02 Nov 2022 07:00:00 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/capital-of-craft-ipa-2022

Since its debut back in 2017, Capital of Craft IPA has become a quintessential part of San Diego Beer Week and a much-anticipated beer by both locals and out-of-towners alike. For 2022 SDBW, the specialty beer will be served on tap and in 16-ounce six-packs throughout San Diego County for a limited time starting Friday, November 4.

This year's Capital of Craft team include:
BattleMage Brewing Co.
Culver Beer Co.
Fall Brewing Co.
Mcilhenney Brewing Co.
Mujeres Brew House
My Yard Live
TapRoom Beer Co.
Pizza Port Brewing Co. (host brewery)

Thank you to our sponsors who made this collab brew possible:
BSG CraftBrewing, CanWorks, White Labs Inc.

]]><![CDATA["Cheers!" 2022 Capital of Craft IPA]]>Wed, 26 Oct 2022 07:00:00 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/cheers-2022-capital-of-craft-ipaMeet the team behind this year’s 2022 Capital of Craft IPA

Picture of person holding 6-pack of 2022 Capital of Craft IPA cans

Our annual Capital of Craft IPA is the perfect example of what can be accomplished when passionate people come together for a common cause - to brew great beer! We interviewed our collaborators to gain insight into this year's Capital of Craft IPA.

Pizza Port Brewing Co. - Sean Farrell

About Sean Farrell: Sean Farrell is the Director of Brewing at Pizza Port Brewing Company and has been in the industry for over 20 years. He’s worked at some of the most notable breweries in California, including Stone, Coronado, and now Pizza Port. For Sean, one of his most significant and recent contributions to Pizza Port’s selection of beers is updating Pizza Port's Swami's IPA. A staple beer originally brewers in Solana Beach now serves as the flagship beer at Pizza Port Bressi Ranch.

Regarding Capital of Craft: “The Capital of Craft has been a great idea. We got to participate in the very first one, as Pizza Port was one of the original Guild members. Each brewer gets to nominate another brewery for the next year, and it’s the sixth year now. We've been asked to host [Capital of Craft], so we feel very fortunate. We have a lot of friends here that we've known or worked with.”

About Pizza Port Brewing: Pizza Port Brewing is one of the most popular and successful brewpubs in Southern California, with five locations throughout the region. Pizza Port has become a favorite destination for craft beer lovers and foodies alike, with a commitment to delivering the highest quality food and drink and providing outstanding customer service.

Culver Beer Co. - Michael Stevenson

About Michael Stevenson: Michael Stevenson is the Head Brewer and Co-Founder of Culver Beer Company. He has been in the brewing industry for ten years, and his favorite style of craft beer to brew is the IPA. Michael got his start in the industry by completing an internship in Germany and landing a job at Manzanita Brewing Company in Santee after returning home. After a few years at Manzanita, Michael set out to start Culver Beer Company in North San Diego County with his business partner Ben Fairweather.

Regarding Capital of Craft: “I'm very excited to be part of the Capital Craft. There's a lot of camaraderie in the industry. Technically we're all competitors here, but we're also very friendly to each other and having all of our names on one label is fun and a joy to be a part of.“

About Culver Beer Co.: Culver Beer Company is a craft brewery in Carlsbad, offering a wide range of beer styles to suit your taste. With over six years of experience brewing high-quality craft beer, this independent brewery is known for its friendly atmosphere and excellent food selection. Culver Beer Company is the perfect place to visit. Their selection of hot and cold sandwiches will satisfy your cravings, and their welcoming staff will make you feel at home!

My Yard Live - Ben "Shaggy" Blaney

About Ben "Shaggy" Blaney: Shaggy has been a part of the craft beer industry for many years. He started home brewing with his dad, and soon enough, they got "the sickness." He begged for jobs in the industry until he finally landed one at The Lost Abby. He spent almost eight years perfecting his craft there before moving on to Mason Ale Works in San Marcos. After two and a half years there, he moved to My Yard Live, where he is currently the head brewer. His most personal beer is Flight of the Kiwis, which he brewed first on a home brew scale, tweaking it over time and eventually landing a GABF bronze medal win at the Great American Beer Festival.

Regarding Capital of Craft: “I'm super stoked on it. I've worked at a lot of breweries and beer bars for a decent bit now, but like every year, I've seen Capital of Craft pop up, and it's always been a cool thing to see on taps and stuff. So being a part of it is really rad.”

About My Yard Live: My Yard Live is a unique and innovative community/brewery space that seeks to cultivate a welcoming environment for families and solo drinkers alike. They aim to provide quality food and craft beverages, live entertainment, and a variety of leisure games that encourage socializing, building connections, and fostering a sense of community. Whether it's spending time with friends on their outdoor patio or participating in one of their fun-filled events, My Yard Live is the ultimate destination for those who value meaningful experiences with a nice glass of craft beer to top it off.

Mujeres Brew House - Samantha Olsen

About Samantha Olsen: Samantha Olson is the head brewer at Mujeres Brewhouse. She has been in the craft beer industry in San Diego for eight years and has focused on historical beer styles throughout her career. At Mujeres, she always has a rotating lager on tap that you won't find elsewhere. Her favorite style of beer to brew is a lager; it takes delicate care and balances to get the fermentation process just right. The Buenas Vibras pale lager is her favorite beer from the core lineup at Mujeres - it's super drinkable and perfect for enjoying in the brewery's beer garden.

Regarding Capital of Craft: “I'm super excited to be a part of the Capital Of Craft IPA collaboration. It's fun to see what everyone is doing with their different dry hopping techniques and yeast selection based on what they're trying to achieve. It's gonna be great!”

About Mujeres Brew House: Mujeres Brew House is a community-oriented brewery in San Diego, California. Founded by two passionate beer enthusiasts, Carmen Favela and Esthela Davila. This all-inclusive brewery creates a welcoming environment for beer lovers of all backgrounds. At Mujeres Brew House, customers can enjoy an extensive selection of craft beers, delicious tacos and other food options. The brewery also offers regular events and educational programs, allowing customers to learn more about the world of craft beer and connect with like-minded individuals.

BattleMage Brewing Co. - Chris Barry & Ryan Sather

About Chris & Ryan: Chris and Ryan are two childhood best friends who share a passion for brewing delicious craft beer. It’s been five years since BattleMage Brewing opened its doors, and owners Chris & Ryan have had to learn the ins and outs of the business, including being proficient bartenders, janitors, and brewers. They both started as homebrewers, honing their skills while working at Ballast Point Brew Mart and as part of the Society of Barely Engineers. With an unwavering commitment to quality craft beer, they are always looking for new ways to experiment with different flavor profiles and techniques.

Regarding Capital of Craft:
Chris: “From what I've been told, it was the quickest recipe selection. Everyone seemed really on the same lines with the malts we wanted to use. I think the beer will be great, and everyone involved knows what they're talking about, so it's going to be a good one.

Ryan: Yeah, I think, you know, everyone that came together has a lot of experience, so decisions are made quickly because we have a lot of background on the different ingredients and everything. So, you know, it was pretty quick to develop a pretty solid IPA recipe, I think. I'm excited to see how it turns out. I think the ingredients are going to be good. We've never done this specific combo, so it should be cool. And hopefully, we'll learn some new techniques. Beer is only four ingredients, but every time you do a collab, you learn how someone's doing something a little bit differently, and it really expands your knowledge.

Chris: Yeah, you can try out what they're doing and be like, this makes sense for our system. We'll try this next time we brew a beer.

Ryan: So there's always something new to learn. We've never mastered everything. There's always something, always places to grow”

About BattleMage Brewing Co.: BattleMage Brewing Company is an epic craft brewery in Vista Business Park. Founded by a group of Dungeons & Dragons aficionados, this brewery brings a new twist to the craft beer scene with its fantasy-themed brews and weekly game nights. Whether you're a craft beer novice or a seasoned beer geek, BattleMage has something for everyone. Stop by their tasting room any day of the week to relive your fantasy childhood dreams or enjoy some good old-fashioned D&D with like-minded enthusiasts.

Mcilhenney Brewing Co. - Shawn Mcilhenney

About Shawn Mcilhenney: Shawn Mcilhenney is the co-founder, head brewer, and doer of many other things at Mcilhenney Brewing. He started in the industry when his dad founded Alpine Beer Company in 2002. Shawn worked his way up to head Brewer in 2007 and was there until 2018. He took a year off and started his own brewery, Mcilhenney Brewing Co. Every beer that Shawn has made or supervised has been a great success. He has a special place in his heart for hops from New Zealand and Australia.

Regarding Capital of Craft: “It's great to be a part of [Capital of Craft]. I like the direction that we're heading. I like that everybody is very passionate about what they do that's involved, and we get exclusive first looks at some ingredients that not a lot of people have access to. So looking forward to the end product here.“

About Mcilhenney Brewing Co.: Mcilhenney Brewing Company is a premier craft brewery in Alpine, California, just 30 miles east of downtown San Diego. Founded by Shawn, Jamie, Pat, and Val Mcilhenney - who are no strangers to the local craft beer community - this family-owned and operated brewery has been producing high-quality beers since its inception in 1999. Led by Head Brewer Shawn Mcilhenney, Mcilhenney Brewing has become a destination for beer lovers across the country. Their taproom is kid and pet friendly, with an outdoor patio that allows visitors to take in the beautiful California mountain scenery. Whether a long-time local or just passing through, check out Mcilhenney Brewing Company for some truly incredible craft beers.

Fall Brewing Co. - Dan Ouellette

About Dan Ouellette: Dan Ouellette is the Head Brewer and Production Manager at Fall Brewing Company in North Park, San Diego. He started home brewing about 13 years ago. Since moving here from New Hampshire, Dan has been at Fall Brewing for five years. At Fall Brewing, he has helped create A Cold Day in Hell, a cold IPA collaboration with Black Plague Brewing. Dan is a huge fan of lagers, and his favorite style of beer to brew are light lagers - because “there's nothing to hide behind, and you have to really nail everything you're doing."

Regarding Capital of Craft: “I think it's an awesome opportunity, not only for all of us who most likely wouldn't get to brew as a group. It's an awesome opportunity for the collaborative aspect of networking, meeting of the minds, throwing ideas out - all the weird crazy stuff we all want to try but never have. It's a really cool opportunity.”

About Fall Brewing: Fall Brewing is a craft brewery in San Diego, California, doing what they love since 2014. They focus on making the kinds of beer that they love to drink: crisp, clean lagers, hop-forward IPAs, and delicious sours and stouts. At Fall Brewing, the most important thing is having fun while making great craft beer. They believe that when it comes to brewing, you should never take yourself too seriously, and they make sure to always have a good laugh at themselves while they're at it. Despite sometimes struggling to hit its release dates or misspelling things on its labels, Fall Brewing can make light of these mistakes and keep having fun with its brewing process. Whether you're a fan of hoppy IPAs or smooth pilsners, there's something here for everyone to enjoy.

SD TapRoom Beer Co.

About SD TapRoom Beer Co.: SD TapRoom was founded in the early years of the San Diego Craft Beer Revolution by brothers Kevin and Kyle Conover. As avid homebrewers and participants in the emerging craft beer scene, they came up with an idea of creating one of San Diego’s first local craft beer focused establishments. Their OG beer bar located in Pacific Beach, San Diego offers a unique experience that allows for 150+ local craft breweries to showcase their products, along with elevated bar food and a casual local community vibe. SD TapRoom has made its way as one of the most recognized, respected, and successful craft beer focused establishments in San Diego.

2022 Capital of Craft IPA Sponsors

The success of Capital of Craft would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors.

About BSG: As the leading supplier of brewing ingredients and supplies, BSG has been providing brewers with quality ingredients for nearly two decades. With distribution centers across North America (including Oceanside!), BSG is well-equipped to supply brewers with what they need - no matter where they are.

About CanWorks: With its advanced printing technology, CanWorks can provide craft breweries with a waste-free printing solution that delivers unparalleled benefits. Founded by brothers Marshall and Ryan Thompson, CanWorks aims to revolutionize the craft brewing industry with its innovative printing technology.

About White Labs Inc.: If you're a fan of craft beer, then you've probably heard of White Labs. They are one of the pioneers in yeast education and research, and their work has helped elevate the quality of craft beer to new levels. Founded by two home brewers, White Labs has grown into a team of dedicated biochemists constantly exploring new ways to improve the brewing process. They are continually striving for perfection, becoming leaders in the art of fermentation in the process.

San Diego Beer Week festivities begin with the Annual Virtual Kick-Off Toast on Friday, November 5, at 7 p.m. PT. Fans are invited to join the digital bash from their neighborhood brewery, craft beer bar, or tasting room and share content on social media using #SDBEER and #SDBW22.

]]><![CDATA[Guild Fest Returns to San Diego: Your Guide to the Official Kick-Off Party for SD Beer Week!]]>Wed, 12 Oct 2022 07:00:00 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/guild-fest-returns-to-san-diego-your-guide-to-the-official-kick-off-party-for-sd-beer-week

YOU DESERVE A BEERCATION! Guild Fest kicks off this year’s San Diego Beer Week on November 5th. Join us in celebrating San Diego's thriving brewing community at the Surf Sports Park in Del Mar. Guild Fest will showcase exciting features, including delicious craft beer (duh!), live entertainment, food trucks, and more. With more than 60 independent breweries in attendance, its the ultimate opportunity to explore the San Diego craft beer scene.

Buy your tickets today and join us to celebrate San Diego's vibrant brewing scene! We created this handy guide to help you plan your day of craft beer drinking and merriment.

When and Where?
Guild Fest takes place on Saturday, November 5th, at the Surf Sports Park in Del Mar. Early Admission ticket goers will be let in at noon, and General Admission ticket goers will be let in at 1:00 PM. The event will wrap up at 4:00 PM. Guild Fest is a 21+-only event, so please leave the kiddos at home!

How do I buy tickets?
Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased here.

Participating SD Craft Breweries
We're excited to announce that over 60 participating craft breweries are joining us! Here is the list of all participating breweries:

Beer Alternatives
We know that beer isn't for everyone (we won't judge!), which is why we have invited some fun beer alternatives to this year’s festival. We're excited to have the following beer alternatives at the event:

Eats
Good grubbin’ awaits! We've got you covered with some of San Diego's best food trucks and chow:

Entertainment
It's not a festival without some entertainment! Lawn games will be set up throughout the venue so you can take a break from beer drinking and enjoy some friendly competition with your fellow fest-goers. And don’t forget those dancing shoes! Some local favorites are bringing it back with 80s and 90s music:

Totally 80's
This cover band from San Diego will have you singing and dancing along to all of your favorite hits from the decade. Whether young or old, Totally 80's is sure to get everyone in the mood for good old-fashioned fun!
Website: totally80sband.com

Paging The 90s
Paging the 90s is Southern California's raddest 90s cover band. Their set list includes all of your favorite songs from the 1990s. It'll be totally awesome, dude!
Website: pagingthe90s.com

Transportation
If you plan on drinking (and that should be all of you!), we encourage you not to drink and drive. Instead, please consider carpooling, ride-sharing services, or public transportation to get to the venue.

Plan Your Stay
Here is a list of hotels and inns to consider for your stay:

We hope you can help us make the return of Guild Fest one to remember! Be sure to follow us on social media and subscribe to our email list to get the latest updates and announcements regarding Guild Fest, Capital of Craft IPA, and San Diego Beer Week.

]]><![CDATA[San Diego Breweries Win 15 Medals at Great American Beer Festival]]>Mon, 10 Oct 2022 07:00:00 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/san-diego-breweries-win-15-medals-at-great-american-beer-festivalBNS Brewing & Distilling, North Park Beer Company, Rouleur Brewing Company take home Gold at nation’s largest annual professional brewing competition

San Diego, CA – San Diego breweries last week won 15 medals at the Great American Beer Festival, the nation’s largest professional brewing competition that takes place annually in Denver, Colorado.

Three breweries took home Gold Medals, including BNS Brewing & Distilling (My Bloody Nightmare in the “Strong Red Ale” category), North Park Beer Company (NZ-FU! in the “English IPA or New Zealand IPA” category), and Rouleur Brewing Company (Domestique Blonde Ale in the “Belgian-style Ale or French-style Ale” category).

North Park Beer Company won not just a San Diego-best, but a competition-best four medals overall, including one silver and two bronze. It also took home 2022 Brewery of the Year honors for the 2,001-5,000 barrel breweries.

The competition, which is presented by the Brewers Association, included a total of 9,904 entries within 98 different categories. There was an average of 99 beers entered in each category and the medals were given out from a panel of 235 judges.

The other winners from San Diego:

SILVER MEDALS
Athletic Brewing: Lemon Radler (“Non-alcohol beer” category)
Bagby Beer Company: Three Beagles (“English-style Brown Ale” category)
Gravity Heights: Brewer’s Best (“English Mild or Bitter” category)
Kilowatt Brewing: Maple Smoked Maibock (“Specialty Beer” category)
Mother Earth Brew Company: Hop Diggity (“Imperial India Pale Ale” category)
* Mother Earth was founded in Vista and operates a brewhouse there, however, the award-winning beer was produced at the company’s production facility in Nampa, Idaho
North Park Beer Company: X-Raying Citra (“Juicy or Hazy Imperial India Pale Ale” category)
Pizza Port Brewing Company – Ocean Beach: Guillame (“Session Beer or Belgian-style Table Beer” category)
Societe Brewing: The Coachman (“Session India Pale Ale” category)
Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens – Liberty Station: Stone Cimmerian Portal (“American Black Ale or American Stout” category)

BRONZE MEDALS
North Park Beer Company: Double-Fu! (“Imperial IPA” category)
North Park Beer Company: Hop-Fu! (“American IPA” category)
Pizza Port – Ocean Beach, Chula Vista Brewery, Karl Strauss Brewing, and Nickel Beer Company: Guns Out For Grains Out (2022 Collaboration Competition)
The Lost Abbey: Peach Afternoon (“Fruited Wood and Barrel-aged Sour Beer” category)

San Diego County is known as The Capital of Craft™, a moniker that was trademarked in 2015. San Diego has the most craft brewery locations among all counties in the United States with more than 150. San Diego Brewers Guild, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2022, was founded in 1997 with 15 breweries.

The Guild’s 14th-Annual San Diego Beer Week is scheduled for November 4-13. Guild Fest, the official kick-off event for the celebration of the local independent craft beer industry featuring unlimited samples from more than 60 breweries, will be held Saturday, November 5 at Surf Sports Park in Del Mar. The festivities conclude with the Beer Garden at The Lodge at Torrey Pines’ Arroyo Terrace on Sunday, November 13. Individual breweries will host events and have beer specials throughout Beer Week, all of which will be posted on the Brewers Guild’s calendar.

]]><![CDATA[Five Suits Brewing: Bringing Las Vegas Flair to the Heart of Vista]]>Fri, 30 Sep 2022 19:30:41 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/five-suits-brewing-bringing-las-vegas-flair-to-the-heart-of-vista

Five Suits Brewing brings Las Vegas flair to San Diego for a unique experience, great craft beer, and even better memories 🎰

Tucked away in the Vista Business Park, Five Suits features vintage decor from the ‘50s and '60s, a grand piano-shaped bar, and quality craft beer that is fit for royalty 👑💃

After tasting Avery’s “Maharaja” Double IPA for the first time back in 2012, Nick Corona (Owner + Head Brewer) instantly became a hop head. Inspired by this experience, he ordered a homebrew kit the next day and started learning the art of making craft beer which resulted in ribbons, medals, and titles at the county, state, and national levels.

Beers to try:⁠
5’s Are Wild - Hazy IPA - ABV: 6.8%⁠
Planet Nectaron - IPA - ABV: 7.0%⁠
Suited Aces - IPA - ABV: 6.6%⁠

Website: https://fivesuits.com

📍 Find them at 2575 Pioneer Ave STE 104, Vista, CA 92081 ⁠⁠⁠

🍻 Monday & Tuesday: 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM
🍻 Wednesday: Closed
🍻 Thursday: 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM
🍻 Friday: 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM
🍻 Saturday: 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM
🍻 Sunday: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM

]]><![CDATA[14th Annual San Diego Beer Week set for November 4-13]]>Wed, 14 Sep 2022 07:00:00 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/14th-annual-san-diego-beer-week-set-for-november-4-13Official kick-off event Guild Fest is Saturday, November 5 at Surf Sports Park in Del Mar; Beer Garden at The Lodge at Torrey Pines concludes festivities Sunday, November 13

San Diego, CA – San Diego Brewers Guild has released details of the 14th-Annual San Diego Beer Week, which will take place from November 4-13. Guild Fest, the official kick-off event for the celebration of the local independent craft beer industry, will be held Saturday, November 5 at Surf Sports Park in Del Mar. The festivities conclude with the Beer Garden at The Lodge at Torrey Pines’ Arroyo Terrace on Sunday, November 13. Brewers Guild Executive Director Paige McWey Acers made the announcement.

Individual breweries will host events and have beer specials throughout Beer Week, all of which will be posted on the Brewers Guild’s calendar within the next month.

The 2022 Capital of Craft™ IPA collaboration beer will be brewed by eight Guild member breweries and released for the 10-day celebration. Pizza Port Brewing Company, which won five medals (two gold) at the World Beer Cup in May, is hosting the creation of the specialty beer. The other seven participating breweries are BattleMage Brewing, Culver Beer, Fall Brewing, Mcilhenney Brewing, Mujeres Brew House, My Yard Live, and TapRoom Beer.

San Diego County is known as The Capital of Craft™, a moniker that was trademarked in 2015. San Diego has the most craft brewery locations among all counties in the United States with more than 150. The Brewers Guild, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2022, was founded in 1997 with 15 breweries.

“Craft beer really is one of San Diego’s great industries along with the military, tourism, tech, and medicine,” McWey Acers said. “We are The Capital of Craft for a reason and Beer Week is a fall tradition unlike any other in America’s Finest City. We look forward to another incredible 10 days of suds and fun. It will be here before we know it.”

Guild Fest tickets are on sale now at www.sdbeer.com/guildfest. General admission tickets (1:00 – 4:00 p.m.) are $55.00 and include unlimited samples from more than 60 breweries. Early admission tickets (12:00 noon – 4:00 p.m.) are $70.00 and include the unlimited samples as well as an added hour of specialty beers for the first hour. Guild Fest will include food trucks, as well as live music from Totally 80’s Band and Paging The 90s. The event is 21+ only and parking is available onsite for $12.00. Designated driver tickets will be sold at the door for $20.00 as well.

The 2022 Guild Fest will be the first to offer a selection of beer alternatives such as wine and kombucha. Guild Fest had been held downtown since its inception in 2005, beginning at the WorldBeat Center in Balboa Park. This will be the first in-person Guild Fest since 2019, when more than 2,000 beer enthusiasts attended.

“We felt it was time for a fresh start for our signature event in a more centrally-located destination,” McWey Acers said. “The beauty of Del Mar and the clean ocean air speak for itself. We have so many wonderful Guild members and their loyal followers in North County, so this gives them all an opportunity for a quicker commute to the event. We can’t wait to see thousands of beer enthusiasts gather where the hops meet the turf down at old Del Mar.”

On Friday, November 4, a virtual kick-off toast will occur at all Guild member breweries at 7:00 p.m. Photos of toasts being posted on all social media platforms should use the hashtags #SDBeer and #SDBW22.

The Beer Garden at The Lodge at Torrey Pines once again will feature 28 breweries paired with 14 chefs. The breweries are selected by lottery. Tickets are $145 and are available now at https://www.sdbeer.com/beergarden.

San Diego Brewers Guild, which organizes Beer Week, is a nonprofit 501(c)(6) organization that promotes local small businesses and entrepreneurs of craft beer via education, events, and community involvement.

]]><![CDATA[Kilowatt Brewing: A Kearny Mesa Gem for Craft Beer and Art Lovers]]>Thu, 25 Aug 2022 11:55:57 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/kilowatt-brewing-a-kearny-mesa-gem-for-craft-beer-and-art-lovers

If you're looking for a unique and stimulating craft beer experience, Kilowatt Brewing is the place for you!

This Kearny Mesa brewery is well-known for its showcase of local artists, creative decor and lighting, and of course, their beer! They have 20+ beers on tap and a wide selection of bottles available ranging from multiple IPAs and traditional styles to barrel-aged, fruit and sour beers, all small batch brewed by hand.

Kilowatt also has a special surprise hidden inside: The Forbidden Cove tiki bar featuring exotic cocktails and rare craft beers. So if you're looking for an exciting new spot to check out in San Diego, Kilowatt Brewing is definitely worth a visit!

They just celebrated 7 years in business and continue to bring new and exciting experiences to craft beer lovers in San Diego. So if you haven't been yet, what are you waiting for?

Beers to try:
Sour Blue Raspberry Slushie - ABV: 9.5%⁠
Hazy And The Hendersons - Hazy IPA - ABV: 7.0%⁠
Chocolate Macadamia Nut Stout - Pastry Stout - ABV: 6.2%⁠

Website: https://kilowatt.beer

📍 Find them at 7576 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92111

🍻 Monday - Wednesday: 3:00 PM - 10:00 PM
🍻 Thursday: 3:00 PM - 11:00 PM
🍻 Friday - Saturday: 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM
🍻 Sunday: 1:00 PM - 8:00 PM

]]><![CDATA[Oceanside Breweries: Part 2 – The Summer Fun Continues!]]>Wed, 10 Aug 2022 19:32:40 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/oceanside-breweries-part-2-the-summer-fun-continues

Welcome to the continuation of our Oceanside Breweries tour! In Part One, we gave you a list of eight breweries running down the 5. Today, the fun continues as we highlight three more Oceanside craft beer havens - Oceanside Brewing, Belching Beaver, and Black Plague. Summer is the perfect time to explore all that Oceanside has to offer, and craft beer is one of its best features (besides the beach, of course!).

Oceanside Brewing Company

Picture of beer on bar top at Oceanside Brewing Co.

Oceanside Brewing Company has just celebrated six years in the business, and it's all thanks to the local community. OBC was founded by a passionate Home brewer with a thirst for old-school traditions and new flavors. The time was right in 2016, and craft beer was booming. Oceanside Brewing team continues to deliver great craft beer by consistently challenging themselves to create new flavors and push their brew skills.

In honor of their 6th anniversary, try the 6th Anniversary West Coast IIPA, made with cascade and citra hops. IPA's not your thing? Then you must try Summer Picnic (4.9% ABV), a fresh watermelon cream ale, and their most popular craft beer.

Oceanside Brewing Company has won two North American Beer Awards medals for brewing two excellent barleywines. Soke (10.5% ABV) is a Japanese Honey Riced Barleywine and a gold medal winner originally formulated because of a stuck mash during a brew mishap. Auld Adversary (10.5% ABV) is an English-style Barleywine and a silver medal winner.

Picture of musicians playing at Oceanside Brewing Co.

If you need a friendly location with the occasional live music, be sure to drop by! They host various events throughout the year, showcasing all of Oceanside's talented community. Check out their upcoming events on social media and their website. And if you want to take their fantastic craft beer on the go, they will begin canning operations this fall!

Website: www.oceansidebrewingco.com
Location: 312 Via Del Norte, Oceanside, CA 92058
Hours:

Monday - Wednesday: Closed
Thursday - Friday: 4:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Saturday: 1:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Sunday: 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Belching Beaver Brewery - Oceanside Brewhouse

Picture of Belching Beaver Brewery Oceanside taproom

Picture of beer filled pint glass that says

Belching Beaver Brewery, located in Oceanside, California, was founded by Tom Vogel (CEO), Dave Mobley (COO), and Troy Smith (Brewmaster) in 2012. Tom and Dave met in a wine class at Mira Costa and bonded over their mutual love for winemaking. At a weekly poker night, Tom was introduced to Troy, who was working at Coronado Brewing. Tom tasked Troy with making a beer as good as Port Brewing's Mongo (Tom's favorite craft beer at the time). If he succeeded, they would sign a lease alongside Dave to start their own brewing operation. They loved the beer so much that they signed the lease right then and there.

To this day, Belching Beaver's philosophy continues to be that craft beer is for everyone, with no pretentiousness. This is reflected in their name: Belching Beaver. They brew various styles throughout the year, with their most popular beer being Phantom Bride (% ABV) during the Spring and Summer seasons - a long-standing collaboration with Deftones. During the Fall and Winter seasons, their Peanut Butter Milk Stout becomes to fan-favorite, which pairs well with ice cream and makes a delicious float! If you are one of these fans, be on the lookout for the release of a new barrel-aged peanut butter stout.

Part of their rotating hop series, a new version of Hazers Gonna Haze, a Hazy IPA, is set to release in the upcoming weeks. In October, be sure to celebrate ten years of Belching Beaver brews by trying Dam Good Decade, a West Coast IPA brewed with terpenes to make it extra special!

Picture of two females at Belching Beaver Oceanside with pint glasses

Fun fact: if you see any of their styles with the brewer's name in the title, i.e., “Fall of Troy,” “Ivan the Terrible,” or "Peter’s Mulligan,” it means they made a mistake while making it and had to fix it by making a different beer altogether.

Website: https://oceanside.belchingbeaver.com
Location: 1334 Rocky Point Dr., Oceanside, CA
Hours:

Monday - Thursday: 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Friday: 3:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Saturday: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Black Plague Brewing

Picture of Black Plague cans with skateboarder in background

Black Plague Brewing was founded by former pro skateboarder Jordan Hoffart (president), and tech guru Jarred Doss (CEO) on the belief that #beermakesfriends - encouraging those to follow their true passion! Having opened its doors in 2017, Black Plague immediately became a big hit thanks to its delicious hand-crafted beer, unique brand identity, and strong community ties to prominent figures in the skateboarding scene.

The plague doctor, a symbol used by Black Plague, represents hope in times of darkness and uncertainty. They brew craft beer as a means to encourage people to celebrate the things that make them unique while honoring the plague doctor for all that he stands for. Black Plague is a brewery for the misfits, underdogs, and rule-breakers, those who strive to be better and follow their true passion.

Black Plague brewing is a home for renegades, underdogs, rebels, and rule-breakers. They constantly strive to improve and provide their community with fresh, hand-crafted beer. The two fan-favorite craft beers to try out are Nyjah Hazy IPA (7% ABV), a collaboration with skating prodigy Nyjah Huston and Tony Hawps Birdhouse IPA (6.5% ABV), a collab brew with legendary skateboarder Tony Hawk. Already a fan of Tony Hawps IPA? Black Plague is releasing the second installment of their Tony Hawps line extension - Tony Hawps Nirvana brewed with HBC 586 & Simcoe hops, with a release party scheduled for this Saturday, August 13th!

So whether you're a fan of Black Plague Brewing, craft beer, or just looking for a fun place to hang out with friends - make sure to check out Black Plague Brewing the next time you're in Oceanside. For those of you further south, Black Plague is coming to Escondido! Their tentative grand opening for their second tasting room is August 19th and will be located at 239 E Valley Parkway in Escondido. Hope to see you there!

Website: https://blackplaguebrewing.com
Location: 2550 Jason Ct, Oceanside, CA 92056
Hours:

Monday - Tuesday: 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday - Thursday: 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Friday: 1:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Saturday: 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM

If these breweries aren’t enough for you, check out part one if you haven't already! Oceanside is home to many craft breweries, so make sure to explore them. Drink responsibly this summer. Cheers!

]]><![CDATA[Guild Fest is BACK!]]>Tue, 09 Aug 2022 19:42:16 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/guild-fest-is-back

Guild Fest is back! Join the San Diego Brewers Guild and more than 60 independent breweries for 2022 Guild Fest, taking place at a new location—The Surf Sports Park (formerly San Diego Polo Fields) in Del Mar. This annual event celebrates SD Beer Week and the independent brewing community that makes it all possible.

As the official kick-off party to SD Beer Week, Guild Fest will showcase exciting features, including delicious craft beer from San Diego and beyond, food trucks, live music, and more!

Buy Your Tickets Today!

]]><![CDATA[Novo Brazil: A Brewery with Brazilian-Inspired Flavors in Chula Vista]]>Thu, 28 Jul 2022 22:21:40 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/novo-brazil-a-brewery-with-brazilian-inspired-flavors-in-chula-vista

Novo Brazil is an International award-winning brewery based right here in San Diego! Inspired by Brazil, they masterfully integrate unique flavors in all of their beverages, including a food menu that fuses Brazilian, Mexican & American cuisine!

Their Birch Road location in Chula Vista is very spacious and offers a bustling community without ever making you feel crowded. The bright walls and friendly staff make this a particularly cheerful brewery! Come peep the vibes.

A full menu paired with beer and hard kombucha ensures that anyone attending will always leave satisfied. If you're looking for a place to watch a fight with other fans, Novo is the place to go. Thanks to their huge screens, every seat has a view of the action. Check out Novo Brazil if you like upbeat breweries where you'll never feel alone.

Beers to try:⁠
The Mango, Fruit Beer/IPA - ABV: 7%⁠
Ipanema, Double IPA - ABV: 8.3%⁠
Sunny Vibes, Pale Ale - ABV: 5.5%⁠

Website: www.novobrew.com

📍 Find them at 2015 Birch Rd #1017, Chula Vista, CA 91915⁠

🍻Sunday - Thursday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM⁠
🍻Friday - Saturday: 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM ⁠

]]><![CDATA[8 Incredible Oceanside Breweries to Check Out in San Diego County]]>Thu, 14 Jul 2022 15:46:06 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/8-incredible-oceanside-breweries-to-check-out-in-san-diego-county

Map of Oceanside breweries featured in article

Few things in life are as satisfying as a cold beer on a hot day, and what better place to cool off than in Oceanside? With several incredible breweries, Oceanside’s fantastic beer scene and stunning ocean views make it the place to be!
Here are just a few favorites to visit:

Whether you're a craft beer aficionado or just getting started, these eight Oceanside breweries are worth checking out.

Northern Pine Brewing Brewery + Taproom

Picture of four people sitting at Northern Pine Brewing Co. tasting room bar counter

Picture of Northern Pines Brewing bar with chairs

Northern Pine Brewing got its start through a collaboration beer they did with Mother Earth Brew Co to honor seven fallen Marines. Originally homebrewing as a passion, this collaboration allowed the team behind Northern Pine to be a part of a project that would bring people together through beer. As veterans themselves, the team behind Northern Pine Brewing was honored to commemorate the fallen through craft beer, and the community loved what they had helped to create.

For the first four years, Northern Pine Brewing used an old brewhouse known as the “Firetruck Brewhouse,” which was built on the Discovery Channel show Monster Garage. The brewhouse was built into the back of a firetruck with help from Lee Chase (the original head brewer of Stone), Jesse James (motorcycle guru), the head brewer of Coors at the time, and several master welders. After the episode, the "Firetruck Brewhouse" went on tour and eventually ended up with an old Coors employee at Coors Stadium. After sitting in the employee's barn for years, Northern Pine acquired the brewhouse (sans firetruck), cleaned it up, and put it to work at Northern Pine in Oceanside.

Their most popular beers to try are Golden Horizons IPA, Gose Berries Berry Gose, and Sunny Vibes Mexican Lager. Regarding upcoming brews, Northern Pine Brewing has finally brewed their first Hazy IPA, a collaboration brew with Lake Arrowhead Brewing, currently on tap. They also have a collaboration with Burgeon Beer Co. coming soon, so be sure to drop by to try their new selection of craft beer.

Website: www.northernpinebrewing.com
Location: 326 N Horne St, Oceanside, CA 92054
Hours:

Monday - Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday - Thursday: 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Friday - Saturday: 12:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Stone Brewing - Oceanside Tap Room

Picture of Stone Brewing Peak Conditions Hazy Double IPA bottle and packaging

In July of 2012, Stone Brewing Tap Room – Oceanside opened its doors to the public. What began as a small celebration of San Diego's local craft beer scene has become one of the most popular destinations for Stone fans worldwide. With a constantly rotating selection of taps, there's always something new to try at the Stone Brewing Tap Room in Oceanside.

Before Stone took over the spot, it was a vacant, flat space that had been left behind by the previous tenant, a pottery shop. Greg Koch, Stone Brewing's co-founder, designed and helped to build the elaborate garden patio space that fans now know and love.

This month marks ten years since they first opened their doors, and they have a fun 10-year celebration planned from July 23rd through the 24th. They're celebrating "a draftacular weekend full of special brewer creations, vintage releases, live music, and more!" Check out their event page to learn more about their weekend festivities.

If you find yourself at Stone Oceanside, you must try Stone Peak Conditions, a Hazy Double IPA. This incredible summer beer is brewed with passion fruit, orange, and guava, making it one of the most flavorful beers they've released. Stone fans had the opportunity to vote on their favorite beer to see come back and be re-brewed for a special release lineup, and Stone Peak Conditions is returning!

Website: www.stonebrewing.com/visit/outposts/oceanside
Location: 310 N Tremont St, Oceanside, CA 92054
Hours:

Sunday - Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday - Saturday: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Booze Brothers Brewing Co. Taproom

Picture of Booze Bros. Brewing Co. Oceanside tap room with tables, chairs and barstools

Picture of Booze Bros. Brewing Co tap handles

In 2008, brothers David and Donny Firth discovered that beer was more than something you drink - beer is something you can brew yourself at home. This home brewing hobby quickly turned into an obsession, and in 2013 the two brothers finally relocated their brewing operation from their garage to Vista.

By 2017, Booze Bros had grown to include The Wood Shed, a private event space in Vista, and a new taproom in Oceanside in 2020. They followed it up with the Vistonian, another event space in Vista, followed by a new taproom in Fallbrook that opened last year.

Their Oceanside location is outfitted with an outdoor patio where you can enjoy live music on Friday nights. Booze Bros has plenty of spots for you to sit and enjoy some good craft brews with friends. They pour both Booze Bros beer and Owl Farm beer, their 2nd brand that focuses on sours, fruit-forward ales, and more cock-tail inspired beers.

Booze Bros’ most popular beer is 1-800 TROPICS HAZY IPA. If you want to try Owl Farm’s fan-favorite drink, check out Watermelon Tajin Gose. Booz Bros has some collaboration beers in the works, but they can't reveal details just yet so be sure to follow them on social media for updates. They also have a new tajin gose in the works to accompany their mango and watermelon tajin gose.

Website: www.booze bros.com
Location: 606 Mission Ave, Oceanside, CA 92054
Hours:

Monday: 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday - Thursday: 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Friday: 3:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Saturday: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Kilowatt Brewing Taproom + The Space Pad

Picture of Kilowatt Brewing Oceanside tasting room with people sitting at tables

Kilowatt Brewing is an award-winning craft brewery known for its unique lighting and art installations, producing small-batch, eclectic beer styles and providing customers with unique and stimulating experiences. The brewery was founded in 2014 by Steve Kozyk, Rachel Fischer, Adam Vance, and Chris Calva.

Their Oceanside satellite tasting room is outfitted with creative and interactive lighting, and they've recently added a new speakeasy in the back. When you first walk into the speakeasy through a hidden passageway from Kilowatt, you enter a “space elevator” that beams you up to the planet and top of the tower where you then officially step foot into The Space Pad.

Picture of people sitting and talking at bar, booths and tables in Kilowatt Brewing Oceanside The Space Pad

The Space Pad exists on the surface of the planet Rillispore a technologically advanced 1950s Atomic Era-styled spaceport. The Space Pad is inspired by the legendary Spaceman of OB, Clint Cary, a blacklight artist who claimed to have been abducted by aliens at one point in his life.

The Space Pad's craft cocktail menu is curated by their experienced mixologist using innovative and envelope-pushing techniques and ingredients with a focus on molecular mixology. If you're looking for something unique and out-of-this-world, Kilowatt in Oceanside is the place for you! They also have plenty of award-winning brews to choose from, including their OB Bubble Dubbel, a two-time medal winner at San Diego International and Silver medal winner of the 2022 World Beer Cup Belgian-Style Abbey Ale category.

Website: kilowatt.beer
Location: 406 Mission Ave, Oceanside, CA 92054
Hours:

Monday - Thursday: 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Friday - Saturday: 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Sunday: 12:00 - 10:00 PM

Breakwater Brewing Company

Picture of interior of Breakwater Brewing Co.

Picture of Breakwater Brewing Co. growler and beer flight with menu

In 2008, the founders of Breakwater Brewing Company recognized a need for quality beer and pizza in a casual, family environment in Oceanside. Using equipment salvaged from a brewery in New Orleans following the aftermath of hurricane Katrina, Breakwater Brewing set out to create just that, a place where anyone could come to enjoy a delicious pint.

They started brewing beer early in 2009 and have delighted local regulars and visitors. Their D.M.J. IPA has become one of their most popular beers to brew - a classic West Coast IPA with piney and citrus hop flavors. They've recently released a new Helles Lager thanks to their extra tank space in Vista.

This extra tank space is part of new collaboration project known as Colab Public House, which provides them with a more extensive brewing system to brew new craft beers. The grand opening is right around the corner, giving fans old and new a great location to try their beers.

There are between 12 to 18 house beers on tap at any given time, as well as 25+ palate-pleasing guest beers, from local and far-flung breweries. The food menu boasts delicious signature pizzas, paninis, and appetizers (including six varieties of chicken wings), and eight widescreen TVs display sports games. The kid-friendly environment includes video games and pinball machines, so there’s a place for the kids to hang out while parents enjoy great food and craft brew!

Website: breakwaterbrewing.com
Location: 101 N Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054
Hours:

Monday - Wednesday: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Thursday - Saturday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday: 11 AM - 9:00 PM

Craft Coast Beer & Tacos

Are you craving some delicious craft beer and tacos? Look no further than Craft Coast Beer & Tacos in Oceanside! This has quickly become a local favorite, which was founded by three friends, Blake, Brian, and Lars. Craft Coast serves up some of the freshest brews and tastiest tacos around.

The group of friends spent a few years formulating a business plan as Blake honed his skills and gained experience brewing at Pizza Port. They finally took the leap and opened Craft Coast's doors in 2020, just as Covid started taking over.

Located at the end of Mission Avenue in Oceanside, only a few minutes from the beach, this is the perfect spot to enjoy a cold one. The guys are always coming up with new, innovative brews using different ingredients for each batch, and their beer list is constantly changing with the seasons. Their most popular beer has been Agua Baja Mexican Lager, which pairs perfectly with any of their tacos!

Picture of Craft Coast glassware with beer

They also have a few collaboration beers to look forward to, including 100% Simcoe IPA with Yakima Chief Hops, a Hazy IPA with Battlemage, and a plethora of new lagers and IPAs in the works!

Website: craftcoast.co
Location: 275 Mission Ave, Oceanside, CA 92054
Hours:

Monday - Friday: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Saturday - Sunday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Bagby Beer Co.

The Bagby family has always been passionate about beer. When they were given the opportunity to open their own brewery, they jumped at the chance.

Headed up by well-renowned brewmaster Jeff Bagby and his wife Dande, Bagby Beer Company has become the go-to for many locals in Oceanside. Jeff is known for his time as Director of Brewery Operations at Pizza Port, having also spent time at Stone Brewing and Oggi's. His craft beer expertise and knowledge have allowed Bagbys to position itself as a popular destination for craft beer fans looking for excellent craft beer.

Located in the former home of Continental Motors and BMW Oceanside, Bagby continues to delight craft beer lovers old and new with every glass they pour. The main bar is where the old showroom once stood, and the brewery is in the former maintenance garage. They have an upstairs dining room, providing plenty of space to enjoy a pint or two.

When you step inside Bagby, you’ll see many people working on their laptops, and enjoying their beer. If you’re looking for a place to get work done away from home, you must try Bagby’s.

For the Bagby family, beer is more than just a business - it's a way of life. They believe in the importance of knowing their roots and staying connected to them. Bagby's is proud to be part of the Oceanside community, and they look forward to continuing to serve up excellent craft beer. If you find yourself on this side of Oceanside, be sure to drop by for some delicious Bagby beer, such as their Biggie Stout, a Bourbon Barrel Aged Imperial Stout that is aged for 15+ months.

Website: www.bagbybeer.com
Location: 601 S Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054
Hours:

Monday - Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday - Thursday: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Friday - Saturday: 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM

South O Brewing Company

Picture of exterior building of South O Brewing Co.

Picture of filled beer glass with tasters

There's a new brewery in South Oceanside, and it's all about supporting the community. Co-founders Trevor Whitehead and Joel Steinmetz were homebrewing daily in their garage during the pandemic lockdown, and their hobby became a real hit with the whole neighborhood!

That experience motivated the pair to try and up their game. Despite the ongoing pandemic, Trevor and Joel founded South O to really take their homebrewing to the next level. For them, it was the perfect time to invest in their community and support people in any way possible. The new brewery has been a hit so far, hosting events like a fundraiser for the local firefighters union and hosting food trucks in their parking lot weekly. Plus, there's live music most Saturdays and Sundays and Trivia on Tuesday nights.

Graves House IPA has been their most popular beer to date, which is a 6.5% ABV IPA. They've also recently released a fruited wheat beer called Acai Bowl, with plans to release a Piña Colada Hazy IPA later this month. If you're in South Oceanside, check out this new brewery and support your local community!

Website: www.southobrewingco.com
Location: 1575 S Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054
Hours:

Monday - Thursday: 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Friday - Saturday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

At the tail end of the Hops Highway (or the start!), Oceanside is home to some incredible breweries that are definitely worth planning a day trip around. With a unique location and climate, Oceanside breweries offer something a little different from the average San Diego craft beer. From hoppy IPAs to refreshing sours, there's an Oceanside brewery for everyone. So grab your friends and plan your next adventure to one of these incredible Oceanside breweries!

]]><![CDATA[Blue Fire Brewing: A Neighborly Brewery with a Love for Traditional Brews]]>Wed, 22 Jun 2022 07:00:00 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/blue-fire-brewing-a-neighborly-brewery-with-a-love-for-traditional-brews

Blue Fire Brewing is located in the city of San Marcos, California. This neighborly brewery has an unabashed love for traditional brews like West Coast IPAs and Brown Ales, but they are unafraid to try different styles to reach new heights.

Making delicious beer to share with others was the foundation of their business, and they have certainly pulled it off! ⁠ ⁠

As long-time locals, they know what environment their customers crave. Great beer, great conversations, and a laid-back vibe define this brewery. Be sure to drop by on Tuesdays and Sundays if you want to grab a bite from their rotating food vendors. ⁠

Whether you're a local or just a beer fan, their friendly environment will definitely make you feel right at home. ⁠

Beers to try:⁠
White Sage IPA - 7.7% ABV⁠
Something Hoppy - 6.3% ABV⁠
Coffee Golden Ale - 4.0% ABV ⁠ ⁠

Website: bluefirebrewing.com

📍 Find them at 2892 S Santa Fe Ave STE 107, San Marcos, CA 92069⁠ ⁠

🍻 Monday: 3 PM - 8 PM⁠
🍻 Tuesday- Thursday: 3 PM - 8 PM⁠
🍻 Friday: 3 PM - 9 PM
🍻 Saturday: 10 AM - 9 PM ⁠
🍻 Sunday: 10 AM - 5 PM⁠

]]><![CDATA[A Conversation with Greg Koch from Stone Brewing: The Evolution of the San Diego Beer Scene, Stone’s Early Days, and the Growth of SDBG]]>Fri, 10 Jun 2022 15:30:00 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/a-conversation-with-greg-koch-from-stone-brewing-the-evolution-of-the-san-diego-beer-scene-stones-early-days-and-the-growth-of-sdbg

It has been an incredible journey for the San Diego Brewers Guild, and today we celebrate 25 years of promoting and supporting local, independent craft breweries! We sat down with Greg Koch, co-founder of Stone Brewing and the initial conceptualizer for SDBG.

As the first president of the Guild, Greg has a lot of wonderful insight into how far we've come and where we might be going. We also get to learn some fun stories about Greg's time in the industry and how he got his start in brewing. Thanks for taking the time to chat with us, Greg!

Picture of Steve Wagner and Greg Koch at original Stone Brewing building

When and where did you open your first location? How did your brewery get founded?

Mata Way in San Marcos, CA in what is now The Lost Abbey. We sold our first keg of beer to our friends Vince and Gina Marsaglia of Pizza Port Solana Beach on July 26, 1996.

It was 1987 and I had my first taste of Anchor Steam. I suddenly realized that beer could be far beyond the stuff of the television commercials. I was curious and inspired. I slowly learned that there were others and began seeking out craft beer anywhere I could find it. All the while I became more and more fascinated by its potential.

Eventually, Steve Wagner and I met at a class called “A Sensory Evaluation of Beer.” We recognized each other from the rehearsal studio facility I owned in L.A. He was in a band and would come in to rehearse. We began brewing casually together. We both knew we wanted to be a bigger part of the brewing industry, but most importantly, we thought what we were creating was really something special. Steve went on to take his first brewing job at Pyramid in Kalama, WA where he gained a ton of experience as a brewer. When we started Stone, he assumed the role of Head Brewer. We were about the 15th brewery to open in San Diego County, with most of them being brewpubs.

Picture of Stone IPA cans, bottles and glass

What do you think it is about San Diego that has allowed it to become the "Capital of Craft"?

It became part of the culture in San Diego to push boundaries. Pizza Port Solana Beach and Blind Pig (in nearby Temecula) brewed two of the first known West Coast Style IPAs. We were inspired and followed with our own Stone IPA. From there, the scene kept on building, exploring styles and then expanding on them. Left turns inspired more left turns.

What are the biggest changes you’ve noticed in the brewing industry in the past 25 years?

It would be hard for today’s craft beer drinker to imagine what it was like back then. In 1996 you’d have been challenged to find an IPA on tap outside of Pizza Port Solana Beach. “Adventurous” beer drinkers were exploring imports. There were maybe fifteen bars and restaurants that had more than ten beers on tap. Today, there are more than 1,000. As I said, there were about fifteen breweries in the county, and today there are more than 150. To my knowledge, Stone opened the first satellite tasting room in the country, now they are barely countable!

The average beer drinker is far more sophisticated and understands the nuances of different beer styles and much more discerning when it comes to quality. At the same time, craft beer drinking has become more accessible and therefore, people are curious. They expect brewers to offer new and creative releases constantly. And that’s fun to keep up with!

San Diego provides a unique environment for brewers. What has been your favorite or most memorable beer that you’ve brewed over the past 25 years?

The Stone 2nd Anniversary IPA thru the Stone 5th Anniversary IPA exploration. We based them on a cranked-up version of Stone IPA, initially just cranking the hops, then increasing the ABV from 6.9% to 8.5% for the 4th & 5th. Eventually, we created a bit of a blend and released the 7.7% ABV Stone Ruination IPA, which became the first full-time brewed and bottled West Coast-style Double IPA on the planet. It was fun and exciting being on the vanguard of something that has spread around the world, though at the time most people thought we were being weird, but we didn’t mind. We loved it!

Picture of Stone employees in front of distribution van

What do you think has been the key to your brewery’s longevity; what challenges did you have along the way?

Sticking to our guns. We’re best when we’re true to ourselves. We’ve always done things a bit differently … more radically in the early days, and less so when so many others came into our space (read: West Coast IPAs, barley wines, imperial stouts and such). Our very first beer to market was considered too hoppy for the time, but rather than assume that no one out there would ever like our beers, we found the few who did and we trusted that their good taste would lead the way.

We never sacrificed what we wanted just so the general populous would join us. Instead poured all of our energy into our craft beer community and our fans, which importantly, included us. We put quality first and we work to deliver more than what’s expected. Our beers are bold in flavor. Our brewers are among the very best and they’re constantly exploring new hop varieties and different combinations to make beers that standout from the rest.

Oh – and our fans! We wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for our diehard fans who keep their fridge stocked with Stone IPA, who hang out in the gardens at our Stone Brewing World Gardens & Bistros, who enthusiastically join our anniversary festivals, and who even have gargoyles tattooed on their bodies!

We’ve had plenty of challenges along the way! Oh, like from Day One when we opened our brewery just as the first craft beer bubble had burst. Distribution was a huge hurdle for us, and many of our friends. Stone Distributing Co. was born because of this. We couldn’t get distribution from the big guys, so we bought a van and loaded it up with our beers, and after a few years, also those of some other craft breweries and we started our own thing. Stone Distributing, by the way, is now one of the country’s largest craft-only distributors. We carry 42 other brands and deliver throughout all of Southern California. So that worked out nicely in the end…

Picture of Greg Koch, Maria Stipp and Steve Wagner

The principle challenges we’ve faced over the years were probably born out of thinking that the heady times of out first 18 or so years would continue to be as robust. We were the cool kids for many many years, and then as other new also very cool kids came onto the scene, we found ourselves being perceived in the ‘legacy’ category. From our internal perspectives, we were still pushing and innovating like we were as a younger company. However, some of the public, having been very familiar with our brand for many years, started seeing us as the old dogs. Personally, it’s a bit weird to realize some are perceiving you that way.

Also, we expanded robustly, including internationally, in ways that ultimately proved to be too big, too bold and too soon.

Then there was more expansion, and more consolidation and the entire industry seems to be facing challenges today. We like to reframe challenges as opportunities, though. We know we’re not alone in navigating an evolving craft beer market and our talented team continues to blow our minds with their ability to adapt with new offerings and creative ways to engage our fans.

Do you have any fun or interesting stories the public might not know about your brewery?

We got our yeast strain from a now-defunct Canadian microbrewery. A brewery in the Northwest U.S. was using it when Steve was living up that way and he really liked its properties – He thought it would be a great fit for the beers we had talked about making.

When we first moved down to San Diego, we brewed a few test batches with some yeast that Pizza Port let us have, but when it was time to get our own yeast strain going, Steve had his friend Jeff fly down with a batch of it from Oregon.

So, there he was at the airport with this huge keg filled with liquid yeast. He was checking it as luggage (when you could still check something like that!), and the counter attendant told him it was over the weight limit. So, he wheeled the keg into a stall in the men’s bathroom, attached the fittings, and drained some of the yeast out. It wasn’t a clean job though; the yeast had sprayed on the walls and around the seat and pretty much everywhere. I don’t know if you’ve ever seen a liquid yeast culture, but it’s not a pretty shade of brown. And, considering the fact that it was splattered over a large portion of a bathroom stall, I guarantee the poor janitor that discovered it didn’t think it was yeast that made that Jackson Pollock.

The work of that unsung hero of the custodial arts was not in vain! Our keg made it to San Diego safely, rolling down the baggage claim conveyor to scores of laughter and applause. Its contents have served us – not to mention countless fans – quite well ever since.

Picture of original Stone Brewing brewhouse and tanks

How has the San Diego Brewers Guild evolved in the past 25 years? Some of you have been around since before the Guild had even been conceived. You have seen firsthand how the Guild has changed and evolved over the years.

I think the SDBG has done a fantastic job in fulfilling its mission to communicate to the public that there are phenomenal choices for them in San Diego County. I was the initial conceptualizer and the first President of the SDBG, and I think I did an ‘OK’ job at kicking things off for the first couple of years … however, subsequent leadership has helped bring it to a whole new level. I’ll admit that I have not been as personally active over recent years, so I cannot comment directly on the most current and recent leadership other than what I have seen I think has been great, but I do know I’d be remiss if I didn’t call out Colby Chandler for his outstanding many-year run as head of the SDBG. I think Colby really helped set the stage for what the SDBG is today. I might have started the initial spark, but Colby, and others, have built the bonfire of awesomeness that it is today, and I thank everyone for their part in that!

Contact Information:
Website: www.stonebrewing.com
Phone: 858-283-8206
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stonebrewing
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StoneBrewing
Twitter: https://twitter.com/StoneBrewing

]]><![CDATA[25 Years of the San Diego Brewers Guild: A Look Back]]>Thu, 09 Jun 2022 07:00:00 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/25-years-of-san-diego-brewers-guild-a-look-back

Photo of people in original Stone Brewing location

In 1997, fifteen craft breweries came together to prop up San Diego's budding craft beer scene - and thus, the San Diego Brewers Guild was born. Today, 25 years later, seven of those breweries are still in operation. The guild continues to promote our members and educate beer fans worldwide on the positive benefits of the San Diego craft beer industry. June 10th marks our 25th Anniversary, and we want to highlight and thank our original members who have been with us since the beginning. They have served as pillars in our community, and their stories continue to inspire new brewers and craft beer fans today. Original members of the Guild include:

Today, San Diego breweries have grown from 15 in 1997 to over 150 in 2022. Let's take a stroll down memory lane and see how these original members started in the San Diego beer scene.

AleSmith Brewing Co.

AleSmith Brewing Co. was founded in 1995 by Skip Virgilio (now Brewmaster at Gravity Heights Brewery & Beer Garden) and Ted Newcomb, opening its doors in Mira Mesa, where Mikkeler Brewing now stands. At the time, Skip was brewing professionally at the PB Brewhouse, and he met Ted in a San Diego Homebrew Club - QUAFF.

That love for homebrewing and craft beer continued with Peter Zien, renowned homebrewer and Grand Master Judge when he took ownership of AleSmith in 2002. Peter brought one of his homebrew recipes to AleSmith, which had won a few awards in his amateur career. With AleSmith, Old Ale went on to win multiple medals at both the Great American Beer Festival and the World Beer Cup.

Photo of Peter Zien, Lee Chase, Tomme Arthur

When asked about the most significant changes he had seen in the industry in the past 25 years, Peter pointed out the explosive growth of the brewing industry. "A Guild meeting in the early days had a handful of attendees, recent meetings top 100+ in attendance!"

Peter attributes the success and longevity of AleSmith to their commitment to quality, which resonates with knowledgeable beer drinkers. Integrity and modesty contribute to a company culture that creates a high-caliber team and workforce. One of his most memorable moments was getting ready to head home after a 12-hour shift. Noticing some patrons pulling up to the locked door of the tasting room, Peter decided to go back and open up the tasting room for a private tour and tasting. People still come up to him and tell him that it was one of the best brewery experiences they've ever had.

"My earliest memories of the Guild Meetings circa 2000 were fun meetings where we shared growlers of our beers and war stories. There would be a few topics to the meeting, a beer festival here, and beer and food dinner pairing there, but pretty much more drinking beer than deciding anything important. A recent Guild Meeting that I attended still had the shared beer and fun, but we also had presentations by vendors, legal updates to important law changes, and many issue discussions. I've also heard that out-of-state Brewers Guilds have been to our meetings after hearing about all of the good things happening in the San Diego brewing scene. A testament that we're doing great things here in San Diego!"

Coronado Brewing Co.

It was the Summer of 96' when brothers Rick and Ron Chapman first opened the door to Coronado Brewing Company in the beach town of Coronado, CA. Coronado was their hometown, and they wanted to create a beer brand that best represented where they had grown up.

They would wake up swinging every morning, doing their best to remain on their toes and ahead of the game, keeping up with trends while creating new ones. This drive has become a staple in their company culture and has helped them remain one of San Diego's most relevant breweries 25 years later.

When asked about which beer has been the most memorable to brew at Coronado, Rick shares that Orange Avenue Wit has had a lasting impact on the brewery and with craft beer fans. Orange Avenue Wit is a Belgian witbier that pays tribute to the orange trees that once lined Coronado’s main street.

Since the beginning, Rick and Coronado Brewing have been an integral part of the Guild. When asked about his thoughts on the Guild and how it has changed over the years, he stated: "It's grown from a passionate ragtag group in the beginning to an organized, buttoned-up guild. I'm stoked and honored to still be involved, and look forward to the next 25 years. The passion and involvement that continues with new BODs, and brewing members, inspires me and our team here at Coronado Brewing Co."

Coronado Brewing Co. merchandise booth set up at an event

Rick and Ron Chapman standing in front of original location

Original Coronado Brewing Co. pub signage

Karl Strauss Brewing Co.

Photo of Chris Cramer and Matt Rattner brewing beer

Chris Cramer and Matt Rattner, both freshly out of school, founded the brewery in 1989. With help from Chris's cousin, Karl M. Strauss, one of the most decorated Master Brewers of all time and the brewery's namesake, they opened their doors in downtown San Diego.

In the 80s, the public wasn't familiar with craft beer, and people questioned the beer's drinkability. Fast forward to today, and San Diego is now known for its incredible craft beer scene! This shift in perception of craft beer came from educating the public and brewing quality beer. As a close-knit brewing community, it was determined early on that a Guild was needed to educate, support, and help grow the industry.

Personal success for Karl Strauss Brewing Co. starts with quality control, a core value of the company that Karl Strauss (the man) pushed for from day one. They have brewed over 130 unique beers in the past 25 years and each beer is brewed to the highest standards.

The quality and variety of beer come from their Small Batch program - consistently kicking out noteworthy brews. Aurora Hoppyalis IPA is currently ranked top 3 IPAs globally, and their Red Trolley is one of the most award-winning beers of all time.

Karl Strauss takes pride in their ability to consistently be recognized through beer competitions such as World Beer Cup and the Great American Beer Festival. As Karl Strauss has grown in size, the San Diego Brewers Guild has grown alongside them in both scope and scale.

Stone Brewing

"It was 1987, and I had my first taste of Anchor Steam. I suddenly realized that beer could be far beyond the stuff of the television commercials. Eventually, Steve Wagner and I met at a class called "A Sensory Evaluation of Beer." We recognized each other from the rehearsal studio facility I owned in L.A. He was in a band and would come in to rehearse. We began brewing casually together. We both knew we wanted to be a bigger part of the brewing industry, but most importantly, we thought what we were creating was really something special. Steve went on to take his first brewing job at Pyramid in Kalama, WA, where he gained a ton of experience as a brewer. When we started Stone, he assumed the role of Head Brewer."

And so began Stone Brewing, founded in 1996 by Greg Koch and Steve Wagner in San Marcos in the same building for what is now home to The Lost Abbey.

Ribbon cutting at original Stone Brewing with employees

San Diego stands today as the Capital of Craft because of its willingness to push boundaries. Pizza Port and Blind Pig (near Temecula) brewed two of the first West Coast Style IPAs. Inspired by these, Stone developed their own West Coast Style IPA, Stone IPA, which has become one of the world's most popular and well-known craft beers.

When asked about how the Guild has evolved over the years, Greg said, “I think the SDBG has done a fantastic job in fulfilling its mission to communicate to the public that there are phenomenal choices for them in San Diego County. I was the initial conceptualizer and the first President of the SDBG, and I think I did an ‘OK’ job at kicking things off for the first couple of years…however subsequent leadership has helped bring it to a whole new level.”

Stone’s longevity comes from sticking to their guns, and being true and honest with themselves. Original Stone beers were considered too hoppy for the time, but rather than assume no one would like their beer, they found the few who did and let the beer do the talking from there. Instead of catering to the public, they poured their energy in creating beer they knew they loved, and they continued to explore new recipes following that philosophy.

Photo of Greg Koch and Steve Wagner in empty building before Stone Brewing

Photo of Greg Koch and Steve Wagner with fermentation tanks

Photo of original Stone Brewing brewhouse, tanks and kegs

San Diego Brewing Company

Photo of Lee Doxtader in front of San Diego Brewing Co.

San Diego Brewing Company opened in 1989 under Callahan's Pub and Brewery in Mira Mesa. After moving to Grantville in 1993, they changed the name to San Diego Brewing Company.

SDBC came about from two individuals in the restaurant business, Lee Doxtader and Scott Stamp, who would dedicate spare time to homebrewing. At the time, they hocked everything they had to get their business going. While opening a brewery in a strip mall was not their first choice of location, San Diego Brewing Company has proved to be San Diego's staple and local favorite.

Lee Doxtader and Scott Stamp bring beer.

According to SDBC, the willingness of San Diegans to try new things, along with a beer scene that breeds creativity, has allowed San Diego to become the Capital of Craft. This desire to explore and take risks by consumers and brewers alike has led to some of the world's most successful and well-known craft breweries here in San Diego.

The industry has done a lot to educate and inform consumers of changing trends, tastes, and practices, and the San Diego Brewers Guild has become a trustworthy resource and voice for local brewers.

Looking back at a memorable beer they have brewed, San Diego Brewing Company singles out their San Diego IPA, which was one of the first IPAs in San Diego, and is still a flagship beer for them today. It took some convincing to get people to try it, but it became an instant hit once they did.

Photo of woman pouring cask beer at SDBC.

Lee Doxtader and Scott Stamp with other man at SDBC.

Ballast Point Brewing Company

Picture of two original Ballast Point employees

Long before San Diego's beer scene became a formidable player on the world stage, Ballast Point Brewing Co. opened its doors to its homebrew supply shop in 1992. Ballast Point Home Brew Mart set out to provide education, resources, and supplies to homebrewers and was pivotal in spearheading the homebrewing movement here in San Diego.

As an original member of the Guild, Ballast Point has seen first-hand how the industry has changed and grown over the years. The community continues to grow with new and innovative breweries, many of which started as homebrewers buying supplies from Ballast Point. While many of these individuals become passionate home brewers as a hobby, some have gone on to open successful breweries throughout the years. Alongside the San Diego Brewers Guild, Ballast Point has helped and enabled this growth by sharing their knowledge and supporting local brewers.

"Putting "San Diego" on our labels meant something, then and now. There was no shortage of inspiration or quality or talent, but we needed promotion. As one of the seven founding brewery members of the Guild and its origin story, we're humbled by its stewardship 25 years later, and look forward to continuing to brew and supply alongside the next generation of San Diego brewers."

This sentiment harkens back to when they first started operations and how, despite being a small operation, Ballast Point had big aspirations for their place in the San Diego beer scene. Homebrewing was their passion, and they wanted to share that with as many people as possible.

Now, 25 years later, they are one of the world's most successful and well-known craft breweries.

Picture of Ballast Point employees in front of large delivery truck

Pizza Port Brewing Co.

Picture from Pizza Port's first brew day in 1992

Pizza Port Brewing Co. is an award-winning brewery with a rich history extending to 1987. Gina and Vince Marsaglia, two siblings in their early 20's, purchased a struggling pizza business in Solana Beach. After experimenting with homebrewing in the restaurant's storage space, they decided to add a brewing operation to the business.

In 1992, Gina and Vince began offering their first selection of hand-crafted beers, and Pizza Port Brewing Co. as we know it today was born. Their craft beer was a big hit, and Gina jokes that they kept opening new locations because they kept running out of beer.

Success for Pizza Port Brewing Co. has always been about family, friends, and community. It's about making work not feel like work, and when you're doing what you love, it doesn't feel like work at all.

Picture of Vince and Gina Marsaglia in front of Pizza Port Carlsbad

Swami's was the first IPA Pizza Port released and has left a lasting impact on San Diego as a whole. While the original recipe had a more malty taste, today it is a crisper, hoppier beer that still maintains its original character.

We asked Gina to share their initial impressions of Guild when they first came together 25 years ago: "Being an original board member, it was more of a meet and greet as breweries started opening to share beers and talk business. The Guild has grown to be a solid resource for the industry in a much more organized fashion to help all of us survive some of the obstacles in order to thrive.”

Picture of Gina Marsaglia in front of original Pizza Port location

We'd like to give a big thanks to all of the San Diegans who have supported us and the local craft beer industry over the past 25 years. This is a close-knit community built on a mutual love of good beer, friendly competition, and a desire to push the envelope to create new trends and redefine old favorites. Cheers!

]]><![CDATA[Brewery Spotlight: Culver Beer Co.]]>Sun, 05 Jun 2022 07:00:00 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/brewery-spotlight-culver-beer-co

If you're looking for a unique and fun brewery to visit, check out Culver Beer Co.! They have a variety of beers on tap and tasty food options that are sure to please. You won't regret paying them a visit!

This jungle skatepark hits all the right notes for good vibes and great beer.

They also have a mouth-watering selection of hot and cold sandwiches! We highly recommend their Stramski Reubs and French Dip. We promise you'll be back for seconds. ⁠

Find them at 2719 Loker Ave W Suite D, Carlsbad, CA 92010 ⁠

Monday: 3 PM - 8 PM
Tuesday - Wednesday: 11:30 PM - 8 PM
Thursday - Friday: 11:30 AM - 9 PM
Saturday: 12 PM - 9 PM
Sunday: 12 PM - 6 PM⁠ ⁠

Website: http://www.culverbeer.com

]]><![CDATA[San Diego Brewers Guild to Celebrate 25th Anniversary with Inaugural SD Beer Weekend June 10-12]]>Wed, 01 Jun 2022 18:00:00 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/san-diego-brewers-guild-to-celebrate-25th-anniversary-with-inaugural-sd-beer-weekend-june-10-12Number of local craft brewery locations grows to more than 150 in 2022 from 15 in 1997; Limited-edition anniversary pint glasses available at participating breweries

San Diego, CA – San Diego Brewers Guild a non-profit organization promoting local small businesses and
entrepreneurs of craft beer, will celebrate its 25th anniversary with the inaugural SD Beer Weekend June 10-12. The number of independent craft brewery locations has grown to more than 150 in 2022 from only 15 in 1997, a tenfold increase.

SD Beer Weekend complements the Guild’s annual San Diego Beer Week, which will take place this year from November 4-13 with its 14th installment. San Diego County, known as The Capital of Craft™, has the most craft brewery locations among all counties in the United States.

“We simply couldn’t wait for Beer Week to celebrate such an important milestone for the Guild, its more than 150 members, and, frankly, all of San Diego,” said Executive Director Paige McWey Acers. “We are named ‘The Capital of Craft™’ for a reason and singling out this commemoration is yet another way to promote so many wonderful breweries and help get beer lovers back through their doors as we re-emerge from the pandemic.”

Participating breweries of SD Beer Weekend will sell limited-edition commemorative pint glasses with 25th anniversary artwork. Boelter, the maker of the glassware, is donating $1 of each unit sold back to the Guild.

The weekend extravaganza for the craft beer community will also feature a proprietary, exclusive hop blend named Zamba that is available to commercial brewers to make a beer of their choice for serving during SD Beer Weekend and beyond. Zamba was offered to breweries through the “SD Beer Hop Blend” program, a partnership between the Guild and BSG Craft Brewing. BSG Craft Brewing is donating 20% of each order back to the Guild.

The list of participating breweries can be found at www.sdbeer.com/sdbeerweekend.

In May of this year, 13 San Diego craft breweries won a total of 17 medals at the 2022 World Beer Cup, the largest international commercial beer competition hosted by the Brewers Association. The event took place in Minneapolis and featured more than 10,000 beers from nearly 2,500 breweries spanning 57 countries. Pizza Port Brewing Company garnered the most medals overall with five, including two gold. This was the first World Beer Cup since 2018 due to alternating years and the pandemic. San Diego breweries won just seven medals that year, thus an increase of 10 medals in 2022.

The Guild in 2021 assisted with the re-openings of its member breweries coming out of the pandemic, recommending and monitoring health and safety guidelines. The Guild’s community calendar rebounded with nearly 500 events throughout 2021. Other upcoming Guild events in 2022 include San Diego Craft Beer Con August 2 at San Diego State University and the 8th Annual Golf Tournament September 22 at Rancho Bernardo Inn.

]]><![CDATA[Brewery Spotlight: Thr3e Punk Ales]]>Wed, 25 May 2022 18:30:00 GMThttp://www.sdbeer.com/blog/brewery-spotlight-thr3e-punk-ales

No Lames Allowed!

Thr3e Punk Ales in Chula Vista is where you go to get away from the mundane and into a world of rock and punk! This brewery is known for its refreshing craft beer, but also its killer punk rock playlists and wall decorated with iconic punk rock logos. Can't blame you if you stay for the scene and never want to leave!

Beers to try:⁠
Kill The Pour, San Diego IPA - 6.5% ABV⁠
Emo Brown, Imperial Coffee Brown Ale - 8.1% ABV⁠
Dead Ramones, German Pilsner - 5.4% ABV ⁠

Find them at 259 3rd Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91910 ⁠⁠
All Week: 12 PM - 10PM
Website: https://3punkales.com

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Pizza Port Brewing Co. - Sean Farrell ​