It’s actually called the Washington Brewers Guild Hall of Fame, but the meaning is the same. The Guild recently 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.
Washington Brewers Guild Announces 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.
Honoring Seven Legends Who Have Shaped Washington’s Brewing Industry
The induction ceremony is just one part of a larger event that includes the Washington Craft Beer Summit, The Washington Beer Awards ceremony, and now the Hall of Fame inductions. Hall of Fame Inductees will be honored on Monday, November 3, 2025, at the DoubleTree Hotel in SeaTac, WA. Find out more about how you can attend any and all of the events here.
“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.”
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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.”
The Washington Brewers Guild Hall of Fame will become a permanent tribute to individuals who have made significant contributions in areas such as innovation, entrepreneurship, community building, and advocacy. Their legacy will be commemorated for generations to come, inspiring future leaders and fostering a sense of pride within the state’s craft beer community.
The awards ceremony will be a highlight of the Guild’s annual celebration, and all are invited to attend to witness this historic occasion. Tickets and further event details can be found at
https://tickets.washingtonbrewersguild.org/e/2025wacraftbeersummit/tickets
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.
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