Alaskan Brewing Company's Story and Achievements

The Alaskan Brewing Company was founded in 1986 by Marcy and Geoff Lynch in Juneau, Alaska.

It's amazing to think that this company has been brewing beer for over three decades.

The brewery started with a small 15-barrel brewhouse and a passion for creating unique beers that showcased the state's natural ingredients.

Alaskan Brewing Company's commitment to using local ingredients has been a core part of their identity from the start.

Their first beer, Smoked Porter, was a hit, and it's still a fan favorite today.

This beer helped establish the brewery's reputation for innovative flavors.

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Alaskan Brewing Company has a rich history that dates back to the 1700s, when explorers first started brewing beer in Alaska. The tradition continued through the Gold Rush era, with many local beers being made.

In 1986, Marcy and Geoff Larson reignited this tradition by opening the Alaskan Brewing Company, the 67th independent brewery in the country and the first brewery in Juneau since Prohibition. They drew inspiration from the historically based Alaskan Amber recipe, which they discovered through research on brewing in Alaska.

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Alaskan Brewing Co. officially began operations in December 1986, with Geoff, Marcy, and 10 volunteers hand packaging the first 253 cases of Alaskan Amber for distribution in Juneau, Alaska. Today, the company is one of the most award-winning craft breweries in the history of the Great American Beer Festival.

Here are some key dates in the history of Alaskan Brewing Company:

The first beer inspired by the Gold Rush is a story worth telling. The Alaskan Amber, a German altbier-style, malty beer, was the company's first creation and has remained its top-selling beer to this day.

Marcy Larson, co-founder of Alaskan Brewing, did her research on the history of Alaskan brewing and came across records for Douglas City Brewing Co., which operated from 1899 to 1907. She was fascinated by one brewer's method of fermenting beer in gold mine shafts to create an amber ale.

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The recipe for Alaskan Amber was revamped by Marcy's husband, a homebrewer, using similar techniques to those described in the old documents. Today, Alaskan Amber accounts for roughly 50 percent of sales volume, even as the brewery has expanded its options.

Here's a brief timeline of the Alaskan Amber's history:

The Heritage Coffee series is a beloved part of Alaskan Brewing Company's offerings. This series features rich brown ales with a big cocoa aroma, light earthy roasted, and gourmet coffee notes.

One of the standout characteristics of these beers is their deep coffee base, which is balanced without an overwhelming coffee flavor. This allows the other flavors to shine through, including hints of Cascade and Calypso hops.

The Alaskan Rough Draft Heritage Coffee Brown Ale is a winter seasonal beer, brewed with a 7.0% ABV and 19 IBU. This specific beer has a light sweetness, with fruity hazelnut and medium coffee flavors.

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The Alaskan Brewing Company has a knack for creating award-winning brews. Their Spruce IPA took home the gold award in the Herb and Spice Beer category at the 2018 World Beer Cup.

The brewery's use of natural Alaskan resources in its brews is a key factor in their success. This approach has earned them recognition and accolades.

In 2021, the Citrus Wheat beer can won the "Best Can Design" title at the Craft Beer Marketing Awards. The can's design features a stunning silhouette of a hiker overlooking a mountainous background of green, yellow, and orange.

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Alaskan Brewing Company offers a diverse range of beers, with eight year-round beers, four seasonal beers, and several limited-edition beers.

Their year-round beers include Alaskan Amber, Freeride APA, Icy Bay IPA, Alaskan White, Hopothermia, Smash Galaxy, and Husky IPA. Each of these beers has its own unique characteristics, such as the Icy Bay IPA, which has a high bitterness level of 65 IBU.

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In addition to their year-round beers, Alaskan Brewing Company also produces several seasonal beers. These include Spruce IPA (January – April), Kölsch (May – August), Cranberry Tart (September – December), and Winter Ale.

One of their seasonal beers, Alaskan Black IPA, has a unique combination of roasted malty characters and the refreshing flavor of an American IPA. It has an ABV of 6.4% and is available as a spring seasonal release.

Some of their beers are made with unique ingredients, such as glacier water from Juneau and spruce tips from Sitka. For example, their Alaskan Winter Ale is made with glacier water and has a distinct flavor profile.

Alaskan Brewing Company also offers a variety of beers with different ABV levels, ranging from 5.0% to 10.3%. For example, their Barrel Aged Sea Smoke has an ABV of 7.9%, while their Barrel-aged Russian Imperial Stout has an ABV of 10.3%.

Here is a list of some of their beers with their ABV levels:

Alaskan Brewing Company has been a pioneer in sustainability and environmental stewardship for decades. The brewery's remote location necessitated innovative solutions to production and distribution challenges.

Operating with a central goal of having a zero net negative environmental effect, Alaskan Brewing achieves this through its carbon dioxide reclamation system. This system saves the brewery 45,000 gallons of gas annually and prevents over 1 million pounds of CO2 from entering the atmosphere.

The brewery's mash filter press and spent grain steam boiler also play a crucial role in reducing oil, water, and malt use.

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Alaskan Brewing started making seltzers in 2019. They took a year to develop the perfect recipe, which would showcase the unique flavors of Alaska.

The brewery's seltzers are a natural extension of their beer-making capabilities, as they're brewed and fermented similarly. This means they can use the same expertise to create seltzers that taste great.

Alaskan Brewing's seltzers are brewed with Sitka spruce tips, which give them a distinct flavor profile. The spruce tips offer notes of citrus and berry in the seltzer.

The brewery's seltzers are low in calories and alcohol, with just 95 calories per 12-ounce can and 4.5 percent alcohol by volume. This makes them a great option for those looking for a lighter drink.

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Alaskan Brewing is expanding its reach to Hawaii and Utah. They're now distributing their brews to beer drinkers in these two states.

Hawaii and Utah residents can look forward to trying Alaskan Brewing's beers. This is a great opportunity for people in these areas to experience the unique flavors of the Last Frontier.

Alaskan Brewing is based in Juneau, Alaska, which is known for its rugged natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle. This fits perfectly with the brewery's values and products.

Beer enthusiasts in Hawaii and Utah can now enjoy a taste of the Alaskan wilderness. Whether you're a local or just visiting, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

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Sustainability and environmental stewardship are top priorities in Alaska, and it's no surprise that Alaskan Brewing has taken a proactive approach to reducing its environmental impact. The brewery's remote location presented unique challenges, but it also spurred innovation.

Alaskan Brewing operates with a central goal of having a zero net negative environmental effect, a commitment that's been decades in the making. This ambitious goal is achieved through a carbon dioxide reclamation system that captures and cleans CO2 produced during the brewing process.

The brewery's system reuses the captured CO2 to purge oxygen from holding tanks and during the packaging process, saving 45,000 gallons of gas annually. This is a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

By implementing a mash filter press and spent grain steam boiler, Alaskan Brewing has also reduced its oil, water, and malt use, allowing brewers to make the most of available resources.

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Alaskan Brewing Company has faced various challenges in their operations. One significant challenge is their limited distribution network, which has historically been a barrier to widespread availability of their beers.

In response to this challenge, Alaskan Brewing Company has focused on building strong relationships with local distributors and retailers. This approach has allowed them to maintain a strong presence in the Pacific Northwest.

The company's commitment to sustainability is another key aspect of their operations. As mentioned earlier, Alaskan Brewing Company has implemented a comprehensive recycling program, which has helped to minimize their environmental impact.

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Transporting Alaskan brews to other states is a tough task, especially when you consider that Juneau, where Alaskan Brewing is located, has no roads leading to or from the city.

Getting beer to a broader marketplace is no easy undertaking, and Alaskan Brewing has to rely on flights or ferries to reach its brick and mortar location.

Alaskan Brewing currently offers beers in 25 states, including all Western states and much of the Midwest, which is a significant achievement considering the transportation challenges.

The cost and transportation challenges of getting the brews to the other side of the country is the reason consumers won't see Alaskan Brewing distributed on the East Coast.

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In the midst of chaos, it's essential to maintain a clear head and stay focused on the task at hand. This is especially true in situations where operations are being conducted in challenging environments.

The importance of planning cannot be overstated, as it helps to minimize risks and ensure that all necessary steps are taken. A well-thought-out plan can make all the difference in achieving success.

Effective communication is crucial in operations, and it's vital to establish clear channels of communication to avoid misunderstandings. This can be achieved through regular team meetings and the use of clear and concise language.

In high-pressure situations, it's easy to get caught up in the moment and lose sight of the bigger picture. However, it's essential to stay calm and think critically to make informed decisions.

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Alaskan Brewing Company offers a wide range of beers, including year-round, seasonal, and limited-edition brews. Their year-round beers include Alaskan Amber, Freeride APA, Icy Bay IPA, Alaskan White, Hopothermia, Smash Galaxy, and Husky IPA.

Some of their notable beers include Alaskan Amber, which has an original gravity of 1.054 and an ABV of 5.3%. The Icy Bay IPA has a higher ABV of 6.2% and a bitterness of 65 IBU. The Alaskan White has a lower bitterness of 15 IBU and a color of 7 SRM.

Here's a list of some of their notable beers and their characteristics:

Their beers are made with high-quality ingredients, including glacier-fed water, and are carefully crafted to provide a unique taste experience.

Alaskan Brewing Co. is launching a new limited release series with Hazy Bay Juicy IPA, a citrusy and tropical fruit explosion of hops, coming to stores in March.

This beer is part of Alaskan Brewing's effort to innovate and experiment with new flavors, as seen in their Pilot Series, which has included beers like Imperial IPA and Imperial Rye IPA.

The Hazy Bay Juicy IPA is a citrusy and tropical fruit explosion of hops, making it a great choice for those who enjoy hoppy beers.

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If you're looking for a beer with a similar flavor profile, you might want to try Alaskan Rye IPA, which has a bright, tangy punch of grapefruit and a generous helping of rye in the malt build.

Here's a comparison of the Hazy Bay Juicy IPA and Alaskan Rye IPA:

Note: The ABV and IBU for Hazy Bay Juicy IPA are not specified in the provided article sections, so they are left blank.

The addition of jalapeño peppers in Alaskan Jalapeño Imperial IPA lends itself to furthering the intensity of the beer, while effortlessly pairing with the style's hop profile, making it a great choice for those who enjoy spicy beers.

If you're looking for a beer with a similar style to Hazy Bay Juicy IPA, you might want to try Alaskan Pilot Series - Imperial IPA, which has notes of Asian Pear, Passion Fruit, and Pine.

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Barley Wine 2009 was brewed by Firestone Walker Brewing Company. It's a complex beer with a rich history.

This beer was released in 2009 as part of Firestone Walker's Anniversary Ale series. The series celebrates the brewery's anniversary each year.

Barley Wine 2009 is a strong ale that packs a punch, with an ABV of 12.5%. It's a sipper, meant to be savored over time.

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Barley Wine 2011 is a full-bodied ale that's sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. Brewed with a high original gravity, this beer is a masterclass in complexity and depth.

The 2011 release is a deep mahogany in color, much like the Alaskan Barley Wine 2013, with a rich, velvety texture that's just begging to be savored.

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Alaskan Brewing Co. has a knack for creating rich and complex beers. Their Alaskan Barley Wine 2013 is a full-bodied ale with a deep mahogany color.

This beer is brewed with an array of complementing malts to achieve its high original gravity, making it a standout in the brewery's portfolio.

For those who love a good coffee beer, Alaskan Brewing's Heritage Coffee Brown Ale is a must-try. It has a big cocoa aroma with light earthy roasted and gourmet coffee notes.

This beer is perfect for sipping on a cold winter evening or pairing with a rich dessert.

The Experimental 586 Double is a unique beer that showcases the brewer's willingness to push boundaries. It's a double IPA with a whopping 8.6% ABV.

This beer is part of a series that explores the intersection of traditional brewing methods and modern flavors. The 586 designation likely refers to a specific recipe or batch number.

The Experimental 586 Double has a complex hop profile, featuring a blend of citrus and tropical flavors. The brewer's choice of hops is a key factor in this beer's distinct character.

As with any double IPA, this beer packs a punch. Its high ABV and hop content make it a great choice for those who enjoy a strong, full-bodied beer.

The Husky series from Alaskan Brewing Company is a line of IPAs that are sure to satisfy hopheads. One of the standout beers in this series is the Alaskan Husky IPA, which is based on a small batch SMaSH Mosaic IPA recipe using a single malt and single hop.

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This beer has a 7.0% ABV and 50 IBU, making it a well-balanced IPA that's not too overpowering. If you're looking for something similar, you might want to check out the Alaskan Smoked Porter, which has a 6.5% ABV and 45 IBU.

The Alaskan Husky IPA has a light body and a crisp finish, making it a great choice for those who want a sessionable IPA. If you're new to the Husky series, you might want to start with this beer to get a feel for what they're all about.

Here's a quick rundown of the Husky series:

Overall, the Husky series from Alaskan Brewing Company is a great choice for those who love IPAs and are looking for something new to try.

Kölsch is typically served in a tall, slender glass called a "Stange." This glassware is specifically designed to showcase the beer's color and clarity.

The flavor profile of Kölsch is often described as crisp, refreshing, and slightly hoppy.

Rough Draft Märzen is a seasonal beer from Alaskan Brewing Co. It has a rich, malty flavor with a hint of hoppy bitterness, but unfortunately, we don't have information on the specific ABV or IBUs.

The beer is best enjoyed in the fall season, when the cooler temperatures bring out the complex flavors of the Märzen style. I've had it on a crisp autumn afternoon, and it's a perfect complement to the changing leaves and seasonal activities.

Here are the beers from Alaskan Brewing Co. that are similar in style to the Rough Draft Märzen, but with more specific information:

These beers share similarities with the Rough Draft Märzen in terms of their malty flavors and balanced bitterness. However, the specific characteristics and flavors may vary depending on the beer.

Smoked beers are a unique and adventurous taste experience. Alaskan Smoked Porter is a specialty smoked beer with a dark, robust body and pronounced smoky flavor.

This limited edition beer is produced in limited "vintages" each year on November 1. Unlike most beers, it can be aged in the bottle much like fine wine.

Smoked malt used in the beer acts as a preservative, allowing for years of aging. This is evident in the 2013 and 2014 Smoked Porter releases, which showcase the beer's ability to age well.

The smoky flavor of Alaskan Smoked Porter is a defining characteristic of the beer. With an ABV of 6.5% and 45 IBU, it's a beer that's not for the faint of heart.

Smoked beers like Alaskan Smoked Porter are perfect for those who enjoy trying new and unique beers. If you're feeling adventurous, give it a try!

Smash Galaxy is a beer brewed by the Alaskan Brewing Company. It's a unique beer that uses only Australian Galaxy hops and Premium Northwest Pilsner Malt.

Smash Galaxy is a strong beer, with an original gravity of 1.078 and an ABV of 8.5%. This makes it a great choice for those who enjoy a hoppy, full-bodied beer.

The beer has a bitterness of 86 IBU, which is quite high, but the Australian Galaxy hops add a fruity and floral flavor that balances it out.

Smash Galaxy is one of the limited-edition beers brewed by Alaskan Brewing Company, so it's worth trying while you can.

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Summer Kolsch is a refreshing beer perfect for warm weather. Alaskan Brewing Co. offers a seasonal Kolsch beer from May to August.

If you're looking for a low-IBU beer, the Kolsch is a great choice, with only 15 IBUs. It's also a good option if you prefer a lighter beer, with a color of 7 SRM.

The Kolsch balances a softly malted palate with the clean freshness of hops, making it a great beer for sipping on a hot summer day.

The Taku River Red is a unique beer that's worth trying. Brewed with a blend of specialty malts, it has a rich, malty flavor with hints of caramel and toasted bread.

This beer's flavor profile is a result of the brewery's use of a specific type of malt, which is known for its rich, malty flavor.

The Tasting Room at Alaskan Brewing Company is a must-visit for any beer enthusiast. Choose from 20 Alaskan beers on tap daily.

You can enjoy a flight of samples to try a few different brews, or go for a full pour of your favorite beer. Take home a crowler can or growler for later and enjoy your favorite Alaskan beer on the go.

Their Tasting Room also features a large array of Alaskan gear for sale, so you can take a piece of the brewery home with you.

The Alaskan Brewing Company is a significant player in the craft brewing industry. Their annual revenue was $14.8 million in 2025.

This financial performance is a testament to their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. The company has been able to maintain a loyal customer base, which is essential for long-term success.

One notable aspect of their financials is their annual revenue, which has been reported to be $14.8 million in 2025.

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Alaskan Brewing Company has a knack for creating unique and complex beers that are sure to tantalize even the most discerning palates. They offer a range of special and limited edition beers that showcase their creativity and skill.

One example is the Barrel Aged Sea Smoke, a Rauchbier with an ABV of 7.9% and 237 calories per serving. It's a beer that's definitely worth trying if you're a fan of smoky flavors.

Their Imperial IPA, part of the Alaskan Pilot Series, boasts an impressive 8.5% ABV and 80 IBUs. Notes of Asian Pear, Passion Fruit, and Pine are just a few of the complex flavors you can expect from this beer.

Here are some of their special and limited edition beers:

The Berry Milkshake beer is a sweet treat. It's an Alaskan Berry Milkshake IPA with an ABV of 7.0%. This beer is a unique twist on the traditional IPA.

The Berry Milkshake IPA has a hoppy flavor profile, but its bitterness is relatively low at 45 IBU. This makes it a great choice for those who want a hoppy beer without the intense bitterness.

The Berry Milkshake IPA is brewed with a combination of American Pale Ales, which gives it a balanced flavor. The ABV of the American Pale Ales range from 5.2% to 5.7%, which is relatively low compared to other styles of beer.

The Berry Milkshake IPA has a slightly sweet flavor profile, which is enhanced by the addition of fruit. The Fruit Beer section lists a Berry Milkshake with an ABV of 7.5%, which suggests that the Berry Milkshake IPA may be a variation of this beer.

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The Pilot Series from Alaskan is definitely worth trying, especially if you're a fan of bold flavors.

Their Imperial IPA clocks in at 8.5% ABV, which is a respectable strength for a beer.

This beer is known for its complex tropical fruit notes, which balance out the delicate malt build.

The "juicy" hops taste in the Imperial IPA is a great example of how a beer can be both hoppy and balanced.