Napa Valley Brewing Co/ Calistoga Inn - Craft Beer in Calistoga, California

📜 Short History:

The Napa Valley Brewing Company, located at the Calistoga Inn, has a rich history dating back to 1987. It was one of the first microbreweries in California and the first to operate in Napa County since the Prohibition era.

The Calistoga Inn itself was established in 1983 by Michael and Rosemary Woods, but it wasn't until 1987 that the brewery was added, making it a pioneer in the craft beer industry. The Napa Valley Brewing Company was initially set up in the water tower and shed behind the Inn. The first brewmaster was Blake Richardson, who is credited with creating the original four beers: Calistoga Wheat Ale, Pilsner, Red Ale, and Porter.

In 1989, the brewery was moved to its current location, a separate building on the property. The move allowed for increased production and the addition of a beer garden. The brewery's capacity was expanded from seven barrels to seventeen barrels.

Over the years, the Napa Valley Brewing Company has produced over 2,000 barrels of beer annually, with a variety of seasonal and specialty beers supplementing the original four. The brewery has also won several awards for its beers.

In 1993, Brad Smisloff took over as brewmaster, a position he still holds today. Under his leadership, the brewery has continued to innovate and produce high-quality craft beers.

The Napa Valley Brewing Company continues to be a significant part of the local community and the broader California craft beer scene. It remains a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a unique blend of history, hospitality, and craft brewing.