Colorado Brewery Class of 2020

According to our records here on Colorado Brewery List, there are 29 openings of new locations for Colorado breweries in 2020. Twenty two of them are brand new to the Colorado brewing industry while six are additional locations of currently open breweries.

In addition to these are three noteworthy breweries that are included here as part of this article but were officially opened earlier: Lady Justice Brewing, Irwin Brewing at Public House, and Battle Mountain Brewing. See the reasons for this distinction in the list below.

Five Colorado towns have their first breweries in 2020! They are: Eaton, Delta, Keystone, Mead, and Mountain Village.

There have also been three additional locations marked as taprooms on CBL since they are without any onsite brewing operations, (Guanella Pass, Square Peg, & Lonesome Buck).  Two of these are in Empire & Creede, which gained their first brewery presence.

Finally, there were two breweries that moved this year, (Crooked Stave and Smiling Toad) shutting their doors in one location and opening back up in another.

A huge thank you to Dev Adams, (Miss Lupulin) for her fabulous contributions to this article!

The Colorado Brewery Class of 2020

Sheaf & Kettle Brewing (Eaton) 18 Jan 2020

The first new Colorado brewery in 2020!  This local nano-brewery serves the smaller communities along the Northeastern Colorado range, specializing in small craft-brewed batches. If you are ever in Greeley visiting a certain very popular brewery there, take a moment to travel 10 minutes north to Eaton and check them out.

Ball Brewing (Glenwood Springs) 2 Feb 2020

Ball Brewing is a brewery and taproom as well as a homebrew supply store. They provide their customers with a great location to drink beer brewed on-site, and the ability to purchase any supplies you may need to brew your own beer at home. I really enjoyed my visit there when touring Western Colorado breweries this fall.

Outworld Brewing (Longmont) 28 Feb 2020

Outworld is a Sci-fi/fantasy-themed brewery and restaurant reinventing the brewpub experience. From the curved mezzanine, stage above the bar, and subtle nods to sci-fi fantasy fandom, they offer great beer (Belgian, Bavarian and ancient-styles) and a culinary adventure. This is definitely one of my favorite openings of the year. They presented the full package of friendly service, awesome atmosphere, (the seating pods are especially cool) really yummy food, and outstanding beer. Fellow Colorado Brewery Master Dev Adams visited Outworld for her birthday and 900th brewery visited! “It was super cool to have our own pod just for my party, I’m a huge geek, so I loved the atmosphere, and their Black is Beautiful beer float (with candle!) was definitely a highlight of the day.” A visit to this unique brewery is highly recommended.

Barquentine Brewing (Edgewater) 29 Feb 2020

This Belgian-focused brewery is located in the Edgewater Public Market which offers a ton of different food selections that you can enjoy with your beers. This great new brewery opened on Leap Day so their exact anniversaries will be rare but four times as grand. Check out our spotlight article about them.

Brewery Spotlight: Barquentine Brewing Company by Alex Consolver of Colorado Brewery List

Uhl’s Brewing Co (Boulder) 14 Mar 2020

A Boulder craft brewery with a focus on big, bold flavors, from IPAs to Stouts and Barrel Aged ales. Uhl’s took over the former Wild Woods Brewing location,  which was the first brewery to close in 2020, (pre-COVID). Uhl’s does collaborations with breweries around Colorado and is one of several breweries owned by pilots in the state who flew out to Palisade to pick up fresh hops and get them into their kettle the very same day. I was very impressed by their beers and look forward to trying more.

Then COVID struck.

On 16 March 2020, all Colorado breweries were shut down for on site consumption. Thankfully, due to the efforts of many, including the awesome work by the Colorado Brewers Guild, breweries were allowed to continue operating with to-go sales. Since there were many breweries already in their final stages of preparation toward opening before the shutdown, they were able to open with to-go sales only.

Ska Street Brewstillery (Boulder) 16 Mar 2020

Ska Street had already planned to open on shutdown day and were only open a couple hours before having to close their doors to the public.

A joint project of Ska Brewing in Durango and its sister company, Peach Street Distillers in Palisade, Ska Street Brewstillery includes a restaurant, a ten-barrel brewing system, a 450-liter still, thirty beer taps, and a mixology program featuring house-made brews & spirits. Ska did a great job in making the old FATE Brewing spot their own, with a new vibe and friendly, knowledgeable service. It is wonderful to be able to have a wide selection of Ska’s great beers without having to drive to Durango. Their food is also exemplary with a wide range of flavors to match the variety of their libations. Dev shared, “While usually a burger kind of gal, I have dreams of their Caesar salad. Their breakfast burrito is also ridiculously delicious, (and huge!) Actually, having worked our way through 3/4 of the menu, I can confidently say it’s my favorite brewpub in Colorado.”

Ska Brewing and Peach Street Distilling Take Over Fate Building in Boulder by Jonathan Shikes of Westword

Monumental Beer Works (Grand Junction) 19 Mar 2020

Monumental was the first new brewery to open in Grand Junction since 2005 when Kannah Creek opened their doors, (unless you count the Kannah Creek second location in 2013).   Their taproom has a comfortable feeling with a very large patio to enjoy the great outdoors.  They serve a multitude of styles including “Vine Beers” (inspired by Alex Liberati’s Oenobeers).

New Brewery Opens in the Grand Valley: Monumental Beer Works by Hannah Odneal of Spoke & Blossom

Lady Justice Brewing (Aurora) 18 April 2020

Lady Justice Brewing Company was co-founded by Kate Power, Betsy Lay and Jen Cuesta who are committed to social justice work and being a positive force in our communities by donating profits over cost to Colorado organizations supporting women and girls. Their space pays homage to some incredible women who changed the world such as Ruth Bader Ginsberg (RIP) and Marsha P. Johnson.

Note: Lady Justice first started production in 2016 at a non-public brewery in Mountain View. Later they shared space with Factotum Brewhouse. As such, I consider this a “move” to their current location during this year but also would like to recognize their achievement of opening their own public taproom in 2020.  

 Lady Justice Takes Over Longtime Brewery Space on East Colfax in Aurora by Jonathan Shikes of Westword

Tres Litros Beer (Salida) 1 May 2020

Tres Litros Beer Co. is a neighborhood brewery located in Downtown Salida, CO. When the Colorado Brewers Guild Brewers’ Rendezvous event was cancelled, Dev, along with partner Josh and friends Scotty and Too Tall, decided not to cancel their house rental and just enjoy getting away for a few days. Much to their delight, Tres Litros happened to be an easy stumble just one block from where they were staying. Inside is very open, with great views of the iconic S Mountain and a variety of beers on tap, it makes a great addition to the Arkansas River Valley beer scene. The Riverside Pale Ale was a group favorite.

Barrels & Bottles at Camp George West (Golden) 3 May 2020

Moving up from their tiny brewing setup in downtown Golden, Barrels & Bottles upgraded to a spacious warehouse with a 7 BBL brew system and great views of Green Mountain from east Golden. Keeping their original location in downtown, the expansion to Camp George West allowed them to produce more beer and diversify their menu. The name comes from the historical Camp George military base and, coincidentally, is the owners’ last name.

Wild Provisions Beer Project (Boulder) 8 May 2020

Wild Provisions is a passion project of 4Noses owners showcasing open-fermented beers. They take old school brewing techniques to a new level with multiple wood fermentation vessels called foeders and a large cooling tank called a koelschip. The taproom is very sleek and modern with plenty of patio space.

Spice Trade Brewing (Greenwood Village) 11 May 20

Spice Trade Brewing has been the brewing arm of the Yak & Yeti Brew Pub in Arvada for many years.  This year they branched out to open their own spot in Greenwood Village.  At this location they serve a delicious assortment of international dishes coupled with their outstanding beers using unique spices.  Their Chai Stout is well known but I really love their Tamarind Dubbel and was blown away by their Sumac Saison.  In my opinion, Spice Trade is one of the best brew pubs in the state.

Cabin Creek Brewing (Georgetown) 14 May 2020

Started by a former brewer at Locavore Beer Works in Littleton, Cabin Creek is located on Georgetown Lake in mountainous Georgetown. In times past, Georgetown was best known for their Christmas market and also as the town you drove through on your way to Guanella Pass. Now with two breweries, it is a fine stop on your way up or down from Summit County without the crowds, (or parking nightmares). The building and patio take advantage of the expansive views of the mountains and lake – but beware the dreaded summer wind if you choose to sit outside. Making a foeder pilsner your flagship beer is gutsy, but it’s paid off with their Pounder Pils being hugely popular. In addition to the Pils, don’t miss their Cheaters coffee stout and beautifully balanced Palisade peach double IPA. The food is also excellent with unique v-cut fries and a killer fried chicken sandwich along with tasty pizzas.

Great Divide Brewery & Roadhouse (Castle Rock) 1 Jun 2020

Great Divide Brewing started at their small downtown Denver space and later expanded to a large barrel and packaging facility at the Great Divide Barrel Bar.  Their newest and largest restaurant destination features garage doors that open up to a spacious patio with amazing Colorado views.

Big Trout Brewing (Winter Park) 12 Jun 2020

Big Trout Brewing is a locally owned brew pub featuring a state-of-the-art High Efficiency Brewhouse. They are one of the only breweries in Colorado using a mash filter, which allows for an almost 100% extraction of sugars from the grains.  This is the third brewery for the small town of Winter Park which is becoming a Colorado brewery travel destination, with two more breweries in the neighboring town of Fraser, and yet another one coming in 2021.

Two Mile Brewing (Leadville) 20 Jun 2020

Two Mile Brewing can now proudly call themselves “America’s Highest Brewery” opening in the town of Leadville which officially is at 10,152 feet.  Previously, Periodic Brewing held this title, but unfortunately closed their doors this year. I very much enjoyed making them my first stop on the CBL/CBG Western Tour in September.

Mossdeep Brewing (Boulder) 1 Jul 2020

Do you like Dungeons & Dragons, Lord of the Rings, or other fantasy? Then Mossdeep is your fantasy brewery! An adventure in beer awaits in the cozy space that once held the original Cellar West Artisan Ales and then Adamant Brewing & Blending.

Irwin Brewing at Public House (Crested Butte) 1 July 2020

Dreamed up in a snowcat and brought to fruition in Colorado’s last great ski town, Irwin Brewing crafts a wide selection of award-winning ales and lagers at 8,888 feet in Crested Butte, CO. Public House is a modern Colorado saloon which serves as their public taproom. A trusted meeting place in the heart of Crested Butte, Public House celebrates local food and drinks, welcoming accommodations, and the community of live music.

Note:  Irwin Brewing has been open for a few years in a production only space across town.  This year they officially solidified their connection, (by establishing a Colorado brew pub license in July) with the Crested Butte Public House which had previously been serving their beer.

LUKI Brewery (Arvada) 3 Jul 2020

A circus-themed brewery without the scary clowns and overly bright colors and lights, but a contemporary take on a classic time in America. A century of time may separate the family, but the foundation hasn’t changed.

Luki Brewery Opens Under the Big Top in Arvada With a Circus Theme by Jonathan Shikes of Westword

Ramblebine Brewing (Grand Junction) 24 Jul 2020

After not having any new breweries for so long, two breweries opened in Grand Junction this year.  When visiting them both on our Western Tour I was struck by the difference in feel between Monumental and Ramblebine.  Monumental felt like a relaxing home including a huge patio to enjoy the outdoors while Ramblebine, located in the heart of downtown, had more of an late night party vibe with a huge selection of tasty beers.  (Although, I’m sure Monumental can throw a good party and Ramblebine can be a place to relax at times also).

Pikes Peak Lager House (Colorado Springs) 7 Aug 2020

The Pikes Peak Brewing Lager House, a new additional location for Pikes Peak Brewing in Monument, anchors the Trolley Market and offers a fabulous rooftop patio, as well as ample indoor seating where the exciting and vibrant community of Downtown Colorado Springs can get together over a handcrafted lager.

Pikes Peak Brewing Announces Downtown Lager House Expansion by Focus on the Beer

High Trestle Brewing (Durango) 14 Aug 2020

High Trestle Brewing operates out of the Durango Beer and Ice Brew House and provides local beer and good food with relaxed and friendly vibes.  They are inspired by the heritage of railroading and mining in the southwest and the old Durango Beer and Ice Brewery.  They are located in what was originally the Durango Brewing Company, that was then followed by the short-lived Chainless Brewing.

Peculier Ales (Windsor) 28 Aug 2020

A Peculier is an ecclesiastical district, parish, chapel or church outside the jurisdiction of the bishop of the diocese in which it is situated. This name was chosen carefully; it has both a historical and ancestral tie and is also a statement on how they view the brewery and it’s impact.  Those who enjoy creative styles like pastry stouts, hazy New England IPAs or fruited sours should definitely check this place out.

Former WeldWerks Brewer Launches Peculier Ales in Windsor, CO by Tristan Chan of PorchDrinking.com

Stodgy Brewing (Fort Collins) 04 Sep 2020

Stodgy was the only new Fort Collins brewery to open this year.  As you drive down Laporte Avenue to get to this brewery, it seems like you’re not there yet because of the residential feel of the neighborhood.  Having a beer or three on the front patio and lawn feels like you’re at a friend’s house.

6 & 40 Brewery (Lakewood) 11 Sep 2020

6 and 40 Brewery serves a selection of housemade beer and seltzers for when your engine is running a pint low. Founded by the owner of Tom’s Brew Shop, it is directly adjacent to the legendary homebrew store in Lakewood, CO. The brewers are longtime employees of the homebrew shop and are letting their creative juices flow, (literally and figuratively) by creating beers ranging from traditional to weird.

6 and 40 Brewery Grand Opening | Firing on All Cylinders by Scott Grossman of PorchDrinking.com

Stōik Beer Company (Delta) 12 Sep 2020

The first brewery for the town of Delta, just south of Grand Junction, Stōik has a 7 BBL system with focus on Belgian/American style ales and specialties with a focus of ABC (Always Buy Colorado) by purchasing as much as possible from local farms: hops, grain, corn, fruit and yeast. Stōik is also a military vet owned business.

New on the Block : Stoik Beer Company – Putting Delta on the Map by Stu Carlson of High Country Shopper

Battle Mountain Brewing (Colorado Springs) 27 Sep 2020

Note:  Battle Mountain Brewing is a rebrand of Gold Camp Brewing. While one could consider that Gold Camp closed and Battle Mountain opened this year, I chose to call this simply a rebrand as there was no significant change in operations, (not even a temporary closure) when assuming their new ownership and a new name at the location.

StrongHouse Brew Pub (Telluride) 1 Oct 2020

Located in downtown Telluride, the on-site brewery and restaurant occupy a historic stone building from 1892. Stronghouse Brewmaster, Sam Enders is excited to introduce the Telluride community to his unique mix of original ales and lagers, drawing influence from brewing traditions all over the world. He promises an exceptional roster of seasonally rotating beers utilizing local Colorado ingredients whenever possible and the latest in craft brew technology.

Knuckle Puck Brewing Kombucha & Beer (Mead) 10 Oct 2020

Telluride Brewing Co Brew Pub & Taqueria (Mountain Village) 9 Dec 2020

Telluride Brewing Opens Taproom and Taqueria for the Après-Ski Crowd by Jonathan Shikes

Steep Brewing & Coffee Company (Keystone) 19 Dec 2020

San Juan Brews (Montrose) 26 Dec 2020

San Juan Brews is a locally owned Coffee House and Craft Brewery located in heart of downtown Montrose.

Mash Mechanix Brewing (Colorado Springs) ?? Jan 2021

Note: Mash Mechanix is ready to go!  However, while they have all the approvals, the space is ready, and beer is brewed, they have decided to hold off opening for now and instead have shouted out their wishes for everyone to support other local Colorado Springs breweries.  

A New Brewery Is Supporting the Industry — by Waiting to Open by Jonathan Shikes of Westword

Note:  Earlier versions of this article had Red Swing Brewhouse in Colorado Springs included as a possible 2020 opening but they will not be open in 2020 after all.

Taprooms

The following taprooms opened in 2020. While there are no brewing operations happening at these locations, these towns now have more options to try Colorado brews.

Guanella Pass Brewing Taproom (Empire) 27 Apr 2020

Authentic Detroit-style pizza in a cozy cafe with beautiful back patio located in tiny Empire. The Guanella Pass Brewing original location is in nearby Georgetown.

Square Peg Brewerks Taproom (Creede) 2 Jul 2020

Creede is a hub for hunters, rockhounds and folks who love tiny mountain towns. Square Peg brings their field-to-ferment attitude up to Creede from their original location in Alamosa.

Lonesome Buck Smokehouse & Taproom (Windsor) 2 Aug 2020

Has 8 Beers on tap and slow smoked bbq from an oak wood smoker.  This Windsor location is an additional restaurant and taproom from the original Lonesome Buck in Greeley.

Moves

The following breweries didn’t open this year but did open new doors when they shut down one spot and moved to another.

Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project (Denver) 9 Jan 2020

Moving “back home” from their spot in The Source to their original brewery.

Crooked Stave Will Reopen Sunnyside Taproom — and Close at the Source by Jonathan Shikes of Westword

Smiling Toad Brewery (Colorado Springs) 6 Mar 2020

This is actually the second move for Smiling Toad which started in a tiny spot in southeast Colorado Springs, then moved over to the southwest side of town.  This new great location, just outside of Old Colorado City, will provide much greater visibility to a great brewery specializing in IPAs.  I’ve always had a wonderful time chatting with the owner/brewer, Biff.

Congratulations to all those who opened in this very trying year.  We at Colorado Brewery List wish you the best of luck in the coming years.

These are the Colorado breweries that have opened in 2020: