Sierra Nevada Brewing Company was founded by Ken Grossman. Ken's passion for beer began at a young age, even before he was legally allowed to purchase it. Back in the late 1960s, when he was still a high school student, he took the initiative to buy his very first home brewing kit. With the ingredients in hand, he mixed them together in a bucket, all the while hiding his early brewing experiments from his mother.
Ken's interest in brewing continued to grow, and he dedicated himself to learning the craft and honing his skills. He immersed himself in the world of beer, studying different styles, ingredients, and brewing techniques. He experimented with various recipes and began brewing in larger quantities.
In 1978, Ken Grossman took a leap of faith and decided to turn his passion into a business. He founded Sierra Nevada Brewing Company in Chico, California. Starting with a modest brewhouse, Ken and his team set out to create high-quality, flavorful beers that would leave a lasting impression on beer enthusiasts.
One of the early challenges Ken faced was finding the necessary equipment to expand his brewing operation. He scoured the classified ads and visited scrap yards, searching for used brewing vessels and tanks. Through determination and resourcefulness, he managed to piece together a functional brewing system.
Sierra Nevada Brewing Company's first commercially available beer was their flagship Pale Ale. Released in 1980, it quickly gained popularity and became a staple in the craft beer scene. Ken's commitment to using only the finest ingredients and his meticulous attention to detail in the brewing process set Sierra Nevada beers apart from the rest.
Over the years, Sierra Nevada Brewing Company continued to innovate and expand. They introduced new beer styles, such as their renowned Celebration Ale, which became a seasonal favorite. They also became pioneers in sustainable brewing practices, implementing solar panels and other environmentally friendly initiatives.
Ken Grossman's dedication to quality and his relentless pursuit of brewing excellence has made Sierra Nevada Brewing Company one of the most respected and successful craft breweries in the world. Despite its growth, the company has managed to maintain its independent spirit and commitment to brewing exceptional beers.
Today, Sierra Nevada Brewing Company remains a family-owned and operated business, with Ken Grossman still at the helm. His passion for beer and his pioneering spirit continue to drive the company forward, constantly pushing the boundaries of what craft beer can be.