breweries

Hey craft beer crew and Seattle-area sippers—listen up, because while everyone’s talking Dry January, Washington’s breweries are quietly battling Frigid February (and honestly, the whole chilly winter stretch) with sales taking a serious hit. According to the Brewers Association, nearly half of breweries see their slowest month smack in January or February, and if you toss in the holiday slowdowns of November and December, a whopping two-thirds are slogging through their toughest times before St. Patrick’s Day finally brings some green (and greenbacks) back. Daniel Olson, executive director of the Washington Brewers Guild, nails it: “January is Dry, February is Frigid”—taprooms and brewpubs are hurting big time, with customers not bouncing back like they used to pre-pandemic. Add inflation, supply chain headaches, staffing struggles, tariffs, and folks just drinking less overall, and Washington’s 400+ breweries are facing the roughest road in generations—record closures (nearly 30 taprooms, brewpubs, and breweries in recent years), national craft sales down 5% in 2025 (after 4% in 2024 and 1% in 2023), and WA beer faring even worse at -6.5% in 2024 and -3.7% in 2023.

But here’s the heart of it: these spots aren’t just businesses—they’re your local legends, the cozy corners where you toasted your 21st, had that epic first date that turned into forever, watched games with buddies, or just escaped the rain with a killer pint. Washington’s craft scene still pumps out massive good: supporting over 57,000 jobs, $3.7 billion in wages, $12.4 billion in economic activity, and more than $1.5 billion in taxes every year. The Washington Brewers Guild is all about keeping that thriving—advocating for smart policies, uniting brewers statewide, and reminding everyone that showing up this winter matters. Bundle up, rally your crew, hit your favorite taproom for trivia night, a flight of hazy IPAs, or a hearty stout by the fire—because if we don’t support these spots now, your go-to might not be pouring come summer. Let’s thaw this Frigid February together, one local pour at a time.

About Washington Brewers Guild

The Washington Brewers Guild was born in 1999 as a non-profit trade association dedicated to uniting, protecting, and championing Washington’s burgeoning craft beer scene during a time when the industry was still finding its footing post-Prohibition revival. As craft brewing exploded across the state—fueled by pioneers turning hops-rich Yakima Valley bounty into world-class IPAs and more—the Guild stepped up to give independent brewers a collective voice in Olympia and even Washington, D.C. From the start, it focused on legislative advocacy to shape smart beer laws, educate members on compliance and best practices, and foster community among brewers so no one had to navigate the regulatory maze alone. Over the years, the Guild has proudly built a track record of “getting things done,” helping grow the scene from a handful of trailblazers to over 400 breweries statewide while ensuring quality, choice, and fair play for beer lovers everywhere.

Cheers to a frothy new chapter for one of the world’s purest lagers! Czechvar, the legendary state-owned gem straight from the heart of Czech brewing in České Budějovice (yep, the original Budweis), has teamed up with Global Beer Network (GBN) as its new official U.S. importer—effective right now. Grab your favorite glass, because this partnership is about to make authentic Czech lager even easier to find from coast to coast.

Picture this: crisp, golden pours bursting with those world-famous Saaz hops, Moravian malt magic, and centuries of no-shortcuts brewing tradition. Czechvar isn’t just beer—it’s liquid history, protected by Czech law and poured with pride as the nation’s own benchmark lager.

“GBN knows how to treat heritage brands like royalty,” says Jitka Vlcková, Regional Director – West at Czechvar. “Their passion for real education, top-notch quality, and building brands the right way makes them the perfect crew to help more American beer fans discover what true Czech lager tastes like.”

Since 1996, Global Beer Network has been all about importing and championing premium international brews that stay true to their roots—think old-world craftsmanship and cultural soul in every bottle. Adding Czechvar to their lineup of iconic European heavy-hitters? That’s like adding the king of lagers to an already epic tap list.

“We’re genuinely stoked to welcome Czechvar into the GBN family,” shares Daniel Leeman, EVP of Sales and Marketing at Global Beer Network. “This beer captures the absolute essence of Czech brewing—pure, traditional, and full of character. We’re gearing up to bring it to more spots across the country while keeping every drop respectful to its heritage. Expect fresh marketing vibes centered on proper Czech beer service, culture education, and—drumroll—an exciting new product drop coming soon to shake things up!”

Quick Czechvar 411: Brewed in the historic halls of České Budějovice using time-honored methods and ingredients guarded like national treasures. As the Czech Republic’s official brewery, it carries the torch for authentic lager excellence.

About Global Beer Network:

These folks are pros at bringing the world’s best specialty and craft beers stateside, always prioritizing authenticity, quality, and the stories behind each brew.
With craft drinkers craving more genuine European lagers these days, this Czechvar + GBN hookup is timed perfectly. Get ready for wider availability in bars, restaurants, and store shelves—because nothing beats raising a perfectly poured Czechvar with friends.

Na zdraví! Here’s to more legendary lagers flowing freely across the U.S.

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Nestled in the quaint village of Morrow, Ohio, Depot Brewing Company stands as a testament to the seamless blend of historical preservation and modern craft brewing. Housed in the village’s oldest building—a former railroad depot dating back to the mid-19th century—this brewery has quickly become a community hub since its opening in 2025. Founded by local residents Scott and Ashley Tilford, the establishment not only serves up innovative beers but also honors the rich heritage of its location, drawing visitors to Main Street and revitalizing the area.

The History of Depot Brewing Company
Depot Brewing Company’s story begins with a vision to transform a dormant piece of Morrow’s past into a vibrant gathering place. Scott Tilford, who playfully titles himself the “chief conductor,” and his wife Ashley, both longtime Morrow residents, saw potential in the historic train depot that had sat largely unused for years. The couple founded the brewery as a family affair, aiming to create a space where tradition meets modernity. After months of renovation that preserved the building’s original charm, the brewery held its grand opening on July 12, 2025.

The Tilfords’ mission is clear: to connect Morrow’s storied past with its promising future. Inspired by the depot’s role as a historical connector for travelers and goods, the brewery aspires to be a “beacon of connection” for the community and neighboring areas. Head brewer Taylor Dent collaborates closely with the owners to craft small-batch beers that reflect local history, ensuring each sip tells a story. Since opening, Depot Brewing has attracted locals and tourists alike, boosting foot traffic in Morrow and earning praise for its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to the village’s revitalization.

The Owners: Scott and Ashley Tilford
At the helm of Depot Brewing Company are Scott and Ashley Tilford, a husband-and-wife team deeply rooted in Morrow. Scott, the primary owner and self-proclaimed chief conductor, brings a passion for history and hospitality to the venture. He emphasizes exceptional service and community engagement, often sharing anecdotes about the depot’s past with patrons. Ashley complements this with her focus on creating a family-friendly environment, making the brewery a place for all ages to enjoy.

The Tilfords’ personal touch is evident throughout the operation. Tragically, the brewery’s founding was tinged with loss; Scott’s father, Mike, passed away on October 3, 2023, just as plans were taking shape. This inspired one of their signature beers, turning personal remembrance into a communal celebration. Their dedication has turned the brewery into more than a business—it’s a labor of love that honors family, history, and the tight-knit spirit of Morrow.

The Beers: A Toast to Morrow’s Heritage
Depot Brewing Company specializes in small-batch brews, each crafted to evoke the essence of Morrow’s history, from its railroad roots to iconic figures and events. The lineup is creative and thematic, with names that pay homage to the town’s past while delivering bold, flavorful profiles. Head brewer Taylor Dent ensures quality and variety, often collaborating with local ingredients and inspirations.

Here are some standout offerings from their current selection:

Lincoln Wuz Here (Lager): This rich, full-bodied lager commemorates Abraham Lincoln’s visit to the Morrow train station. It features malty earthy tones with a subtle sweetness, symbolizing strength, resilience, and camaraderie. It’s a fitting tribute to the 16th president’s enduring legacy and the town’s proud history.

49 Lots American IPA: 49 Lots IPA is not just a beer; it’s a storyteller, a homage to the foundations of our great town. Named after the original 49 lots that were platted as Morrow in 1845, 49 Lots IPA aims to evoke a sense of history, community, and anticipation.

Two Tracks Pilsner: A nod to the two railroad lines that once crisscrossed Morrow, this crisp, refreshing pilsner highlights clean flavors and a light body, perfect for casual sipping.

Ghosts Among Us Double IPA: Drawing on local lore and the “ghosts” of Morrow’s historical figures, this potent double IPA packs intense hop aromas and a robust bitterness, appealing to those seeking a stronger brew.

In addition to these core beers, the brewery offers a rotating selection of craft cocktails, wines, and non-alcoholic options, ensuring something for everyone. Food trucks and partnerships with local vendors complement the drinks, making Depot Brewing a full destination experience.

The History of the Railroad Station
The building that now houses Depot Brewing Company is Morrow’s historic train depot, a structure steeped in over 180 years of Ohio’s transportation legacy. Constructed around 1840, it served as a key stop on the Little Miami Railroad, one of the state’s earliest rail lines. Work on the railroad began in 1837 under the direction of Jeremiah Morrow, Ohio’s former governor and the railway’s first president (and the village’s namesake). By 1844, the line had reached Morrow, facilitating the transport of goods and passengers and spurring the town’s growth.

The depot’s early days saw it function not just as a passenger station but also as a freight depot, warehouse, and general store—making it a central hub for commerce. In 1853, a second line, known as the “Sheepskin Line,” was added, running from Morrow to Zanesville and further expanding connectivity.

One of the depot’s most famous moments came during Abraham Lincoln’s presidency. Lincoln reportedly passed through Morrow on a train journey, an event that has become local legend and is commemorated in the brewery’s decor and beer names. The building witnessed the evolution of rail travel through the Civil War era and beyond, surviving floods, economic shifts, and the decline of passenger rail in the 20th century.

By the early 2000s, the depot had fallen into disuse, but community efforts preserved it as Morrow’s oldest standing structure. The Tilfords’ renovation in 2024-2025 breathed new life into it, maintaining original features like wooden beams and rail-era artifacts while adding modern brewing equipment. Today, it’s not just a brewery but a living museum, where visitors can sip a beer amid echoes of locomotives and presidential whistles.

Depot Brewing Company exemplifies how history can fuel innovation. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking a cozy spot in Warren County, this Morrow gem invites you to hop aboard and experience the journey. As Scott Tilford says, it’s about connecting the past to a brighter “toMorrow.”
Address: 240 Main Street, Morrow, OH 45152
Website: https://www.depotbrewing.com/

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The craft beer world just got a whole lot wilder — and smellier — with the launch of Nature Calls, a limited-edition lager from an unlikely duo: outdoor apparel giant Columbia Sportswear and Portland’s acclaimed Breakside Brewery.

Announced on January 28, 2026, this beer literally answers “nature’s call” in the most unexpected way possible. The crisp, clean-tasting lager incorporates an ingredient that’s probably never appeared on a brew sheet before: infused bear poop (from American black bears, collected trailside in Montana). Yes, you read that right — bear scat was used to flavor the brewing water during the process.

Don’t worry (too much): Columbia and Breakside emphasize that the final product is 100% safe to drink. It underwent the strictest brewing and sanitation standards in the industry, turning what could have been a gag into a legitimately consumable beer. The poop infusion is subtle — think of it more as a conceptual nod to the outdoors than an overpowering “wild” taste. The beer itself is described as a smooth, satisfying light lager with pleasant notes of honey and huckleberry, brewed using pure Bull Run River water (Portland’s famously clean supply), Pacific Northwest malted grains, and those signature fruity accents.

This isn’t just a random stunt. It ties directly into Columbia’s long-running “Engineered for Whatever” brand platform, which celebrates gear (and now apparently beverages) built to handle whatever Mother Nature throws at you — even if that includes literal bear droppings. As Columbia’s brand president Joe Boyle put it in promotional materials: “When we say engineered for whatever, we mean whatever. If Mother Nature hurls bear poop at us, we’ll ferment it into a frosty pint.”

Breakside Brewery founder Scott Lawrence echoed the surprise and enthusiasm: “We’ve brewed a lot of beers, but never one that celebrates nature this literally. When Columbia came to us with the idea to use bear poop, we thought they were joking. Turns out, they weren’t — and now we’ve got the wildest beer in America and maybe the world. It’s crazy, it’s fun, and honestly… it tastes great.”

The timing is no coincidence. Nature Calls is positioned as a “Big Game” beer, debuting just ahead of Super Bowl LX on February 8, 2026. For the first time in company history, Columbia is getting in on the Super Bowl action — not with a TV ad, but with a physical presence at The Players Tailgate outside Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Attendees can head to the Columbia booth to sample the beer in person. Limited quantities will also be poured at Breakside’s taproom locations in Oregon for those closer to home.

In a sea of predictable light lagers and Super Bowl party staples, Nature Calls stands out as one of the boldest (and most literal) marketing plays in recent memory. It’s equal parts gross-out humor, outdoor authenticity, and craft beer creativity — the kind of release that sparks conversations, memes, and probably a few hesitant first sips.

Whether it’s a brilliant publicity coup or the most niche beer ever brewed, one thing is clear: Nature Calls has arrived, and it’s ready to make a splash (or at least a chuckle) this football season. Cheers to getting a real taste of the wild — just maybe don’t think too hard about the origin story while you’re drinking it.

About Breakside Brewery:
Nestled in the heart of Portland’s vibrant craft beer scene since 2010, Breakside Brewery has been pouring pure joy one pint at a time. What started as a cozy Northeast Portland brewpub has exploded into a regional powerhouse, cranking out 30,000+ barrels of innovative, award-sweeping beers each year across multiple lively locations—including Milwaukie, Slabtown, Lake Oswego, and even a coastal gem in Astoria. With a playful spirit and a relentless passion for experimentation, Breakside’s tap lists burst with crowd-pleasers like the crisp, hop-forward Breakside IPA (a multiple Great American Beer Festival medalist) alongside wild sours, juicy hazies, and seasonal surprises that keep beer geeks and casual sippers coming back for more. It’s the kind of place where every pour feels like a mini celebration of what great craft beer can be—bold, balanced, and ridiculously delicious.

And the best part? Breakside isn’t just brewing exceptional beer; they’re doing it as one of the country’s few employee-owned breweries since 2019, proving that when the team that makes the magic owns the magic, the results are downright electric. Multiple Brewery of the Year titles from the Oregon Beer Awards, a shower of medals at the World Beer Cup and Great American Beer Festival, and a reputation for beers that are as fun to discover as they are to drink—Breakside keeps raising the bar while keeping the vibe laid-back and welcoming. Whether you’re chasing that perfect hazy IPA, a barrel-aged stunner, or just a sunny patio session with friends, Breakside Brewery delivers the kind of craft beer adventure that makes any day feel like a toast-worthy occasion. Cheers to Breakside—where innovation meets good times, one exceptional pint at a time! To learn more, please visit the company’s website at www.breakside.com.

About Columbia Sportswear:
Columbia, the flagship brand of Portland, Oregon-based Columbia Sportswear Company, has been creating innovative apparel, footwear, accessories, and equipment for outdoor enthusiasts since 1938. Columbia has become a leading global brand by channeling the company’s innovative spirit and passion for the outdoors into technologies and performance products that keep people warm, dry, cool and protected year-round. To learn more, please visit the company’s website at www.columbia.com.

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