This week we’re not only profiling a brewery that’s arrived in Oregon for the first time, but one that’s only been in existence for less than a year. Bursting forth from the burgeoning Spokane Washington brewing scene, we’re excited to feature Lumberbeard Brewing.
Located just Southeast of Downtown Spokane on East 3rd Street, Lumberbeard inhabits a gorgeous 1940’s era building that’s been lovingly restored. This sizable 14,000 sq ft building, that once served as diesel repair shop, is now home to a 20 bbl brewhouse and the master of ceremonies, Bret Gordon, the President and Head Brewer of Lumberbeard. The name of the brewery has long been used by Bret as his social media handle and a perfect fit for a new PNW brewery helmed by a man with a mighty big beard.
Bret began his beer journey as a student at the University of Colorado where he fell in love with beer while studying Economics. Following graduation in 2012, he realized that life behind a desk wasn’t for him, instead returning back to school, this time to pursue a Brewing Certificate at the University of San Diego. Following brief stints at Bootleggers Brewing in Fullerton, Santa Monica Brew Works, and The Bruery in Placentia, Bret headed for Spokane, where he’s visited family for years.
Bret founded the brewery in the Summer of 2018, then began the renovation process of their existing production space in the April of 2019, and finally opening their doors early last December. In that short time, despite these unusual pandemic days, Lumberbeard has already coaxed 36 different beers from their brewery, including their version of Black Is Beautiful (in collaboration with Whistle Punk Brewing and YaYa Brewing), as well as a Scandinavian Hazy Double IPA with Kviek yeast, plus a wealth of other IPAs, Lagers, and Belgian-inspired beers.
We’re excited to have just received two brand new beers from Lumberbeard, which are heading out to bottleshops and stores starting today! The first, Fresh Dreams, is a Fresh Hop New England-style IPA packed with 300lbs of Mosaic, fresh from the bine. The other Is Hoppy Tsunami, offering a “gnarly wave” of tropical flavors from Nelson and Motueka hops. Keep an eye out for both beers, available in 16oz cans and on draft, throughout Oregon over the next week!
Day One Distribution 