Who owns Bale Breaker brewing Company?

Bale Breaker Brewing Company is owned by a team of individuals who come from a rich background in hop farming and brewing. The owners include Patrick, Meghann, and Kevin Smith, who are all fourth-generation hop farmers, as well as Kevin Quinn, who is also a fourth-generation hop farmer, albeit based in Idaho.

I had the pleasure of meeting the Bale Breaker owners during a hop harvest festival a few years back, and their passion for both hops and beer was palpable. They spoke with such enthusiasm about their family's long history in the hop industry and their desire to create a brewery that showcased the incredible flavors and aromas of the hops they grew.

It was fascinating to learn that the owners were all born in the 1980s, which marked the beginning of the fourth generation of hop farmers in their families. This speaks volumes about their deep-rooted connection to the land and the importance of sustainability in their farming practices. It's clear that their upbringing and exposure to the hop industry from a young age have played a significant role in shaping their vision for the brewery.

Interestingly, the year 1984 was a pivotal one for the craft beer industry in the United States. It was during this year that the first brewpub opened in Yakima, Washington, just a stone's throw away from where Bale Breaker is located. This brewpub was established by the legendary Bert Grant, who is often credited as one of the pioneers of the craft beer movement in the country.

I can only imagine the impact that Bert Grant's brewpub had on the Bale Breaker owners and their desire to delve into the world of brewing. To have such a renowned figure in the craft beer industry operating in their hometown must have been incredibly inspiring and influential.