On November 3rd, the Washington Brewers Guild officially inducted seven individuals into the newly formed Washington Brewers Guild Hall of Fame. The inaugural inductions were part of the Washington Beer Awards Ceremony in SeaTac. Pictured above are the Hall’s inaugural members and other members of the Washington Brewers Guild. (Photo by Rick Starr – Anacortes Brewery.)
This past year, the Guild established the Hall of Fame to recognize those individuals whose groundbreaking contributions have shaped Washington’s craft beer scene. It is an honor bestowed upon those who have provided leadership, innovation, mentorship, excellence in the craft, advocacy, and dedication to the state’s brewing industry.
The ceremony last night was spectacular. There were many cheers, laughs, standing ovations, fond memories, and even a few tears. The acceptance speeches were heartfelt and, especially for the younger audience members, provided a lot of context on how the Washington craft beer scene started and evolved.
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Don Spencer (Valholl Brewing) brought the idea to the Washington Brewers Guild last year. The Guild formed a committee and made it a reality. Following the inaugural inductions, which made up for many years gone by, the Guild will induct one new member to its Hall of Fame each year.
Inaugural Hall of Fame Inductees
The seven inaugural inductees certainly fit the bill. They are among the giants upon whose shoulders the Washington craft beer industry now stands. The list of inductees includes three individuals and two couples: Bob Brenlin, Dick Cantwell, Bert Grant, Charles and Rose Ann Finkel, and Mari and Will Kemper.
“We are incredibly excited to launch the Washington Brewers Guild Hall of Fame,” said Robyn Schumacher, President of the Washington Brewers Guild Board of Directors. “These seven inductees represent the very best of our industry—visionaries who have contributed immensely to the growth and success of Washington’s craft beer community. Their hard work, passion, and commitment have paved the way for the thriving industry we celebrate today.”
The seven inaugural inductees
- Robert Brenlin, Allied Member honor; owner/operator of Latona Pub, Hopvine, and Fiddler’s Inn.
- Dick Cantwell; Elysian Brewing, Magnolia Brewing, Brewers Publication Author
- Bert Grant; Yakima Malting and Brewing Co, Hopsteiner (posthumous)
- Charles and Rose Ann Finkel; Pike Brewing Co and Merchant Du Vin
- Mari and Will Kemper; Chuckanut Brewery, Thomas Kemper Brewing
“The Hall of Fame is an important recognition, from the brewers, of those who have gone above and beyond to elevate Washington as one of the top craft beer destinations in the world,” said Don Spencer, Chair of the Hall of Fame Committee. “Each of these individuals has had a lasting impact on our industry, and it’s our honor to celebrate their achievements with this prestigious award.”
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The Washington Brewers Guild Hall of Fame will become a permanent tribute to individuals who have significantly contributed to innovation, entrepreneurship, community building, and advocacy. Their legacy will be commemorated for generations, inspiring future leaders and fostering a sense of pride within the state’s craft beer community.
About the Washington Brewers Guild
The Washington Brewers Guild (WBG) is a 501 (c) 6 non-profit trade association dedicated to advancing the common interests of Washington craft brewers through legislative advocacy, brewer community building, and promoting and protecting the craft brewing industry in Washington State. Representing over 400 breweries, the Guild is a powerful advocate for the state’s craft brewers, providing essential resources, education, and legislative advocacy to ensure the continued success of Washington’s vibrant beer community.
