Celebrating the Craft and Legacy of Mari and Will Kemper
In the bustling world of craft brewing, few names hold as much reverence as Mari and Will Kemper. Recently, the Washington Brewers Guild recognized their substantial contributions by bestowing upon them an industry achievement award. The Kempers have been instrumental in crafting a rich tapestry of brewing knowledge, both in Washington and beyond, thanks to their groundbreaking work at Chuckanut Brewery.
Through years of dedication, Chuckanut Brewery has set the benchmark for craft beer excellence. Known for producing exceptional lagers and ales, their accolades include multiple national awards. This recognition from the Washington Brewers Guild celebrates the Kempers’ unparalleled influence on the industry, highlighting how they have fostered a robust beer culture within Washington State.
Pioneers and Mentors in Craft Beer
The Washington Brewers Guild inducted Mari and Will Kemper into their Hall of Fame on November 3rd. This acknowledgment, received during the inaugural ceremony at the WA Craft Brewers Summit in Seattle, honors their pioneering spirit and leadership. The Kempers were recognized for their relentless pursuit of innovation, mentorship, and advocacy, which have left a profound mark on craft brewing in Washington.
Back in 1984, the Kempers made a bold move by opening Thomas Kemper Brewing Co. on Bainbridge Island, one of the first craft breweries in the state. At a time when fewer than eight microbreweries existed in the Pacific Northwest, their venture was a beacon of change. The brewery’s rapid growth signified a burgeoning craft beer movement, which eventually led them to open one of the state’s pioneering brewpubs in Poulsbo.
Journeys Across Continents and Return to Washington
Their brewing expertise didn’t stop in Washington. Will Kemper consulted for emerging breweries on the East Coast, extending his influence to places like North Carolina, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C. Meanwhile, back on the West Coast, the Kempers were integral in shaping other iconic breweries. Their international ventures included pioneering brewpubs in Mexico and Turkey before they once again settled in Bellingham.
2008 marked the opening of Chuckanut Brewery & Kitchen, where the Kempers returned their expertise to their home state. Winning the Great American Beer Festival’s ‘Small Brewery of the Year’ in 2009 was just the beginning of their trail of triumphs, reinforcing their status as innovators who could craft an exceptionally balanced lager in a landscape dominated by hoppy ales.
The Continuing Influence of Chuckanut Brewery
Beyond their own brewing endeavors, the Kempers have mentored numerous brewers who make notable impacts in the industry today. Names like Josh Pfriem of pFriem Family Brewers and Kevin Davey, formerly of Wayfinder, were all under Will’s tutelage. Will authored influential works on lager beers, contributing significantly to craft beer education worldwide.
Today, Chuckanut Brewery continues to thrive with its production facility in Skagit Valley and plans to expand its distribution to include states like Illinois. The brewery’s renowned lagers and ales have maintained their award-winning reputation, ensuring their place as a cornerstone of U.S. craft beer.
For craft beer enthusiasts and brewery tourists, BreweriesNearMe.us remains your go-to guide for discovering local gems like Chuckanut Brewery, ensuring you never miss a chance to taste the extraordinary. Visit Chuckanut Brewery at 11937 Higgins Airport Way, Burlington, WA. With welcoming indoor and outdoor seating, it’s a destination not to be missed.
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