A Toast to the Resilience of Washington Breweries
Despite a year that served a bitter brew of challenges, the beer industry in Washington has fermented a tale of resilience and growth. With hops of hope and malts of fortitude, over 20 new Washington breweries and taprooms poured themselves into the community, strengthening the state’s reputation as a bastion of craft beer excellence.
The Class of 2023: New Breweries Crafting the Future
Beyond just numbers, the story of beer in Washington is one of passion for good beer and great company. In no particular order, it’s the story of the Good Society Brewery’s Queen Anne Taproom—a neighborhood joint that filled a thirsty void. It’s the narrative of Pike Brewing, which not only opened a new satellite taproom in Ballard but also unveiled an additional one on Pike Street and constructed a whole new brewery to further solidify their legacy.
As we celebrate these spirited openings, let’s trek through the towns of Washington state where each new brewery is tapping into something unique. From Recluse Brewing’s early December opening in Washougal to Larrabee Lager Company’s lager-centric arrival in Bellingham, the variety is as vast as the state itself.
| Recluse Brewing | Washougal |
| Larrabee Lager Company | Bellingham |
| Longmire Springs Brewing | Packwood |
| Haywire Brewing | Snohomish |
Breweries Spreading Cheers Across Neighborhoods
The joy of discovering a new local brewery unfolds in different ways for everyone. Marysville residents, for instance, found their frothy delight in Double Arrow Brewing, set amidst the rural charm a few miles off the freeway. Similarly, Taneum Creek Brewing reopened its doors in downtown Cle Elum, resuming its role as the town’s communal hub for good brews and cheers.
Let’s not forget about the familiar faces embarking on new ventures, like the team behind Longmire Springs Brewing in Packwood. Indeed, each new brewery and taproom stands as a testament to the undying spirit of Washington breweries, each brewing not just beer, but stories and experiences.
Quenching Thirst for Innovation and Community
Other notable openings like Reuben’s Brews Fremont Taproom and Haywire Brewing’s new downtown Snohomish location illustrate how the craft beer scene is perpetually bubbling with innovation.
Old Stove Gardens turned a new leaf, establishing their third Seattle spot where once Lagunitas Brewing poured. Meanwhile, Humble Abode Brewing and Watts Brewing found their new homes in Spokane and Woodinville, respectively, signaling a branching out that is as strategic as it is community-focused.
| Reuben’s Brews | Fremont |
| Old Stove Gardens | Ballard |
| Humble Abode Brewing | Spokane |
Future Fermentation: What’s Brewing on the Horizon?
The breweries mentioned represent a mere taste of the newest fermentation phenomena across the state. From Big Block Brewing’s third location to Garden Path Fermentation’s tasting room in Bellingham, beer aficionados have abundant cause for celebration.
Towards the horizon, these Washington breweries and those yet to emerge signify a growing landscape eager to burgeon with creativity and camaraderie. So, here’s to the brewmasters and beer lovers alike—may your pints forever be full and your spirits never dry.
Indeed, each time a new brewery taprooms opens or a pint is poured, it’s a reminder that in Washington, beer is more than a beverage—it’s the lifeblood of a thriving community beating strong with tenacity and a zest for life’s finer flavors.
Are there any Washington breweries or taprooms I’ve overlooked in this toast to tenacity? Do reach out—after all, it’s the stories we share over pints that weave the rich tapestry of our beer culture. Cheers!
