Our Story
FAMILY-OWNED & OPERATED
Goldwater Brewing Co.'s story is deeply rooted in a family tradition of brewing, starting with Chad and Dillon McClelland's childhood brewing experiences under the guidance of their father, Greg McClelland, an avid home brewer since 1986. This early exposure didn't just introduce them to the basics of brewing but ignited a lifelong passion for the craft. As they transitioned from playful assistants in their father's garage to co-owning a 10bbl brewery with 3 locations, their casual interest blossomed into an earnest pursuit.
The turning point for Goldwater Brewing Co. came when Chad, after traveling and exploring craft beer bars and breweries across Europe, Southeast Asia, and New Zealand, realized his heart was set on turning this family passion into a professional endeavor. On returning home, he expressed his deep interest in entering the craft beer business, a sentiment that quickly gained full family support.
Driven by a shared vision, the family embarked on the challenging yet rewarding journey of establishing their brewery. In 2014, they began the painstaking process of bringing their dream to fruition: drafting a detailed business plan, scouting for the perfect location, devising the brewery's name and brand identity, and experimenting with beer recipes. Their efforts were characterized by trials and errors, but their perseverance paid off when Goldwater Brewing Co. officially opened its doors on May 1st, 2015.
The successful launch of Goldwater Brewing Co. was made possible through the collective contributions of each family member. Greg's business savvy and financial investment laid the foundation, while Chad's brewing expertise, honed through years of experimentation and learning, ensured the production of high-quality craft beers. Dillon's artistic talent and background in graphic design and branding played a critical role in establishing a distinctive visual identity for the brewery, making it stand out in the local craft beer scene.
Together with their brother-in-law, Jimmy Disken, the family's synergy and shared commitment to quality and innovation have positioned Goldwater Brewing Co. as a prominent player in the local craft beer industry. As they look back on nine years of growth and success, they are surrounded by a team of talented individuals who share their vision and passion. The brewery continues to innovate, introducing new and exciting beer recipes, and its branding and customer experience remain top-notch.
Goldwater Brewing Co. is more than just a business; it's a family legacy built on a genuine love for craft beer. As they move forward, they are excited to continue exploring new horizons in the craft beer world, always staying true to their roots and the community that has supported them from the start.
Cheers to the future of fresh, local craft beer!
THE
DUDES
BEHIND
THE BEER.
Goldwater Brewing Co. thrives with its four co-founders, each playing a vital role in the Brewery’s success.
Chad, our Brewmaster, is the man behind crafting all of the exceptional beer flavors at Goldwater Brewing Co. He leads our production team, collaborating closely with our Head Brewer to ensure each batch reaches the highest standards of quality and consistency. With a deep understanding of brewing techniques, a keen palate, and creative expertise, Chad contributes significantly to developing our unique and innovative brews. His dedication makes him an integral part of Goldwater Brewing Co., epitomizing our commitment to crafting exceptional beer.
Dillon, our Creative Director, is the visionary behind our brand's visual identity. With an innate talent for design and a keen eye for aesthetics, he meticulously crafts the look and feel of Goldwater Brewing Co. His creativity drives our captivating brand imagery, from our eye-catching beer labels to the inviting atmosphere in our taprooms. Dillon's ability to translate our brewing passion into compelling visuals and his role in designing our taprooms and choosing finishes set the stage for an unforgettable experience with Goldwater's craft beers.
Jimmy, our operational backbone, fuels the heart of each taproom. He orchestrates smooth operations across all three locations, ensuring seamless experiences and service. From staff management to upholding exceptional standards, Jimmy's expertise enhances every facet of our tap rooms, shaping the inviting spaces they are today. Along with the operational side, Jimmy extends our reach through self-distribution. He manages logistics, upholds our high standards, and has tirelessly delivered thousands of kegs and cans over the years to bars, restaurants, and bottle shops across the valley. His dedication mirrors our passion, making Jimmy indispensable at Goldwater Brewing Co.
Greg, our seasoned partner, plays a crucial role in the backend operations of the brewery. He keeps the business running smoothly with his extensive business acumen, financial expertise, and industry knowledge. Greg's ability to identify growth opportunities, stay ahead of industry trends, and manage the brewery's financial health is instrumental in our continued success. On top of being business savvy, Greg was an avid home brewer for 30+ years. During that time, Chad and Dillon would brew in the garage with their dad on the weekends, learning the craft that would become their future. Great childhood memories were made.
Goldwater Brewing Co. results from a relentless commitment to the craft, fueled by a passionate drive to produce exceptional beer. With the tenacity of true artisans, this formidable team, supported by their awesomely talented production crew and bartenders, creates craft ales and lagers that reflect excellence. Their collective journey from humble garage beginnings to the brewery they are today is a testament to the unwavering grit that defines craft beer—cheers to the team behind the beer who make it all happen.