Eel River Brewing Co - Craft Beer in Fortuna, California

📜 Short History:

Eel River Brewing Company is an American brewery located in Fortuna, California. It is recognized as the first certified organic brewery in the United States.

The brewery was founded by Ted Vivatson and Margaret Frigon in 1995. The couple had a passion for home brewing and decided to turn it into a business. They chose the location in Fortuna due to the quality of the local water, which is an important ingredient in beer production.

The brewery is housed in a historic building that was originally a lumber mill. The mill was built in 1935 and was converted into a brewery in 1995. The building's history is reflected in the brewery's rustic decor and atmosphere.

Eel River Brewing Company started brewing organic beer in 1999, becoming the first certified organic brewery in the United States. They made this decision because of their commitment to sustainability and the environment. The brewery uses organic hops and malt in their beers, and they also recycle their waste products.

The brewery has won numerous awards for their beers, including several gold medals at the Great American Beer Festival. Their flagship beer is the Eel River Organic IPA, but they also produce a variety of other styles, including stouts, porters, and lagers.

Eel River Brewing Company also operates a brewpub at their Fortuna location, where they serve their beers along with a menu of locally sourced food. The brewpub has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

As of 2021, Eel River Brewing Company remains a family-owned and operated business, with a strong commitment to producing high-quality, organic beers.