Crafting Beer and Mountain Culture Beyond Borders
Nestled amongst the towering Rocky Mountains, Outer Range Brewing Co. in Frisco, Colorado embodies the spirit of adventure and innovation in craft beer. At its core, Outer Range’s mission, inspired by a bold motto to “Leave the Life Below,” entails crafting exceptional brews that reflect the very heart of mountain culture. Founders Emily and Lee Cleghorn’s passion for creating world-class beers led them to expand their horizons, traversing 5,187 miles to the French Alps, where they opened Outer Range’s newest location in the quaint town of Sallanches.
While the language and scenery may differ, the essence of their brewery remains unchanged. They’re deeply entrenched in mountain culture, providing a gathering place for both locals and visitors to enjoy innovative craft beers, including their iconic “In the Steep IPA.” Much like the Colorado Rockies, Sallanches offers breathtaking views and a sense of community in a vibrant setting, drawing beer enthusiasts from far and wide to partake in the Cleghorns’ vision.
Sallanches: A True Mountain Community
The choice of location was no accident. Sallanches, nestled near world-renowned ski resorts yet far from the hustle and bustle, resonates with the same authentic mountain spirit found in Frisco. Here, the Outer Range team has cultivated a community-centric taproom that celebrates local richness and natural beauty. It was the perfect match for a brewery that thrives on the surrounding landscape and its influence on craft beer culture.
The decision to plant roots in a town known more for guiding adventurous souls than for bustling nightlife aligns seamlessly with the Cleghorns’ vision. Sallanches mirrors Frisco’s essence, serving as a cozy haven where the mountains, not the resorts, take center stage. This connection invigorates locals and visitors alike, offering unique craft beer experiences rooted in the richness of outdoor pursuits.
Brewing in a Unique Locale
Upon discovering a serendipitous venue, a former American-style grill and bowling alley, Emily and Lee transformed it into a warm, inviting taproom that pays homage to its surroundings. Their investment in floor-to-ceiling windows emphasizes the breathtaking views of the Alps, welcoming patrons to enjoy a pint alongside stunning panoramas.
Walking into Outer Range in Sallanches, one might feel transported back to the Rockies, where the emphasis on mountain culture and premium beer coalesce into a singular experience. Every element in the new location harkens back to their universal obsession with quality and community, making it a must-visit for beer lovers eager to explore the cultural tapestry woven into every pint.
A Passionate Pursuit Across Continents
Outer Range’s French Alps venture required an intrepid spirit, much like navigating a double black diamond slope. The challenges were significant—learning a new language, understanding local regulations, and adapting to a different business landscape. Yet, the founders persevered, buoyed by friendships and partnerships that eased their journey, proving that nothing is insurmountable in their quest for creating remarkable beer.
Through careful collaboration with local partners and an unyielding commitment to brewing excellence, Emily and Lee have managed to replicate Outer Range’s distinctive brewing style, impressing European palates with their masterful hazy IPAs. Despite initial missteps with local adaptations, their insistence on authenticity and quality continues to resonate as they bring their signature brews to a new audience.
A Global Gathering of Beer and Mountains
The heart of Outer Range is undoubtedly its dedication to the mountain lifestyle and the craft beer community it inspires. From trekking up Mount Kilimanjaro to adventuring through the Alps, the team lives by their motto, inviting patrons to join in their passion. Engaged in adventurous pursuits, employees inspire and model a lifestyle that centers around shared experiences and sublime beer creations.
Whether it’s traversing cliffs or skiing powdery slopes, Outer Range fosters a sense of belonging and adventure, culminating in the communal enjoyment of their exceptional beers. This brew-mountain synergy crafts indelible memories and unites fans of exceptional beer, regardless of the continent.
The Broader Craft Beer Legacy
Outer Range’s foray into the French Alps signals a powerful affirmation of their brand’s universal appeal. Despite the hurdles faced when establishing their new locale, the experience garnered acclaim as Bier Magazine recognized the location as one of France’s best breweries. Efforts have been rewarded with accolades from both sides of the Atlantic, solidifying their legacy as trailblazers in the craft beer community.
For those passionate enough to explore the path less traveled, Outer Range offers a beer experience unlike any other. With expertly brewed IPAs in hand, patrons savor the panoramic views at either Frisco or Sallanches, immersed in the camaraderie and the thrill of discovery. Every pint poured is a testament to the vision, expertise, and indomitable spirit required to unite beer lovers worldwide with the magnificent mountainscape.
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