The Spirit of the Valley: Uncorking the Story of 818 Brewery

818 Brewery

In the sprawling, vibrant expanse of Los Angeles, a unique spirit thrives in every neighborhood, from the beach cities to the bustling downtown. But for those who call the San Fernando Valley home, there's a particular pride in the "818" – its area code, its identity, and now, the name of a brewery that has quickly become a beloved local institution: 818 Brewery.

Nestled in the heart of the Valley, 818 Brewery isn't just a place to grab a beer; it's a testament to community, craftsmanship, and a commitment to flavor that resonates with both seasoned hop-heads and curious newcomers.

Where the Magic Happens: Location, Location, Location

You'll find 818 Brewery conveniently located in Canoga Park, an area that embodies the diverse and dynamic character of the San Fernando Valley. Their address at 20700 Nordhoff St, Unit 106, Chatsworth, CA 91311, places them in an accessible industrial park setting, a common home for many successful craft breweries. This location allows for the necessary space for brewing operations while also creating a welcoming, unpretentious taproom environment where friends and families can gather. It’s a true neighborhood spot, drawing regulars from across the 818 and beyond.

The Genesis of a Dream: Founding and Ethos

Every great brewery has a story, and 818 Brewery's begins with a passion for good beer and a vision for a community hub. Founded by a team of dedicated individuals with deep roots in the Valley, the brewery was born out of a desire to create something truly local. Their ethos is deeply ingrained in the fabric of the San Fernando Valley itself: a blend of laid-back California vibes, a strong sense of community, and an appreciation for quality without pretense.

The founders envisioned a place where people could not only enjoy exceptional craft beer but also connect, share stories, and build relationships. It’s an ethos that prioritizes authenticity, approachability, and a genuine love for the craft. They are not just brewing beer; they are brewing connections.

Mission: Crafting Community, One Pint at a Time

818 Brewery's mission extends beyond the fermenter. While producing high-quality, exceptional beer is at its core, their broader mission is to enrich the local community. They strive to be a welcoming third space – not home, not work, but a place where relaxation and camaraderie naturally flow.

This mission manifests in various ways:

• Local Sourcing: Where possible, they aim to support other local businesses.

• Community Events: Hosting events, live music, and food trucks that bring people together.

• Education: Offering insights into the brewing process and the world of craft beer.

• Consistency and Quality: Ensuring every pour meets their high standards, fostering trust and loyalty among their patrons.

The Beers They Brew: A Symphony of Flavors

The heart of any brewery lies in its beers, and 818 Brewery boasts an impressive and diverse selection that caters to a wide range of palates. From crisp, refreshing lagers to bold, hop-forward IPAs and rich, complex stouts, their tap list is always an adventure.

While their exact rotating tap list changes with the seasons and brewer's inspiration, you can often expect to find:

• Hazy IPAs: A staple of the modern craft scene, 818 Brewery often features juicy, aromatic Hazy IPAs bursting with tropical fruit notes and a soft mouthfeel. These are usually fast favorites.

• West Coast IPAs: For those who appreciate classic bitterness and piney, citrusy aromas, their West Coast IPAs deliver a vibrant, clean finish.

• Stouts & Porters: Rich, dark, and often decadent, their stouts and porters might feature notes of coffee, chocolate, or even a hint of barrel-aged complexity, especially in colder months.

• Laguna Del Valley: A crisp and refreshing Pilsner perfect for a warm LA day.

• Belgian-Style Ales: Sometimes venturing into the more nuanced world of Belgian yeast strains, offering beers with fruity esters and spicy phenols (Suzanne’s favorite). 

• Experimental & Seasonal Brews: Always pushing boundaries, you'll often find unique small-batch brews incorporating seasonal ingredients or innovative techniques. This keeps the taproom experience fresh and exciting for regulars.

Their commitment to quality ingredients and meticulous brewing processes ensures that whether you’re reaching for a sessionable ale or a robust imperial stout, you’re getting a finely crafted product.

On the Horizon: New Ideas and Continued Growth

The craft beer world is ever-evolving, and 818 Brewery is certainly not resting on its laurels. While specific "new ideas" are often kept under wraps until they're ready to launch, a forward-thinking brewery like 818 is likely always considering:

• Expanded Distribution: Moving beyond the taproom to get their popular brews into more local bars, restaurants, and retail stores across the 818 and greater LA area.

• Innovative Beer Styles: Experimenting with new ingredients (like local fruits or unique spices), barrel-aging programs for sours and stouts, or even delving into non-alcoholic craft options.

• Taproom Enhancements: Continuing to evolve the taproom experience with expanded seating, outdoor areas, or even regular food offerings (beyond food trucks).

• Increased Community Engagement: Deeper partnerships with local businesses, charities, and community events to solidify their role as a true Valley institution.

• Sustainable Practices: Exploring ways to make their brewing operations more environmentally friendly, from water conservation to energy efficiency.

818 Brewery isn't just a place to drink beer; it's a living, breathing part of the San Fernando Valley. It embodies the spirit of local pride, meticulous craftsmanship, and genuine community building. So, next time you're in the 818, pull up a stool, grab a pint, and taste the passion that goes into every single brew. You'll quickly understand why it’s become a local legend. And if you can’t make it to the brewery, you’ll find their beers on Brwtxt soon, as they are our newest partner. 

Check out Brwtxt, and get beers delivered right to your door!