Alpine Beer Company, a beloved and renowned craft brewery, is based in the picturesque town of Alpine, California. Nestled in the foothills of the Cuyamaca Mountains, this small town is a hidden gem in San Diego County. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of visiting Alpine Beer Company and experiencing the unique charm of its location firsthand.
Alpine Beer Company was founded in 1999 by Pat and Val McIlhenney, a passionate couple with a deep love for craft beer. Their vision was to create exceptional beers that would not only delight the taste buds of locals but also gain recognition on a national scale. Little did they know that their dream would soon become a reality, and Alpine Beer Company would become a beloved name among beer enthusiasts.
The original location of Alpine Beer Company was a small brewpub situated in the heart of Alpine. This cozy space quickly became a gathering place for locals and visitors alike, who would come together to enjoy a pint of their favorite Alpine brews. The atmosphere was always warm and inviting, with the aroma of hops and the sound of laughter filling the air.
However, in 2014, the McIlhenneys made the difficult decision to sell Alpine Beer Company to Green Flash Brewing Company. This transition brought changes to the brewery, including a relocation of their production facility to San Diego. While the beers continued to be crafted with the same dedication and expertise, the original Alpine brewpub was no longer the home of Alpine Beer Company.
Fast forward to 2021, and the story takes an exciting twist. The McIlhenney family, driven by their unwavering passion for brewing, returned to Alpine and opened a new brewery: Mcilhenney Brewing. This new venture allowed them to reconnect with their roots and bring Alpine Beer Company back to its original location.
Walking into the newly opened Mcilhenney Brewing, I was greeted with a sense of nostalgia and anticipation. The familiar Alpine logo adorned the walls, and the enticing aroma of freshly brewed beer filled the air. The space was thoughtfully designed, with a rustic yet modern feel that perfectly captured the essence of Alpine.
As I sat at the bar, I was struck by the variety of beers on offer. From hop-forward IPAs to rich and complex stouts, Mcilhenney Brewing showcased the full spectrum of their brewing expertise. Each beer was crafted with care, using the finest ingredients and techniques honed over years of experience.
One of my personal favorites was the Nelson IPA, a flagship beer that exemplified Alpine Beer Company's commitment to quality and innovation. Bursting with tropical fruit notes and a crisp, clean finish, it was a delight to sip and savor. Another standout was the Duet IPA, a harmonious blend of hops that danced on the palate with each sip.
In addition to the impressive beer selection, Mcilhenney Brewing also offered a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. Whether you were a seasoned beer aficionado or new to the craft beer scene, the staff was knowledgeable and eager to guide you through their offerings. It was evident that the McIlhenney family's passion for beer was contagious, and they took great pride in sharing their creations with others.
As I left Mcilhenney Brewing, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the McIlhenney family and their dedication to their craft. By returning to Alpine and opening a new brewery, they had not only revived the spirit of Alpine Beer Company but also reignited a sense of community in this charming town.
Alpine Beer Company's new home at Mcilhenney Brewing is a testament to the power of perseverance and the enduring love for craft beer. It is a place where locals and beer enthusiasts from far and wide can come together to appreciate the artistry of brewing and create lasting memories. And as I reflect on my visit, I am reminded once again of the magic that can be found in a glass of beer and the stories it can tell.