Discovering Malibu Brewing: A Craft Beer Gem in Southern California

Malibu Brewing has been making waves in the Southern California craft beer scene. Recently, I had the chance to chat with Alan Harvey, their Director of Sales. We got an inside look at what makes this brewery so special. From their commitment to consistency to some exciting future plans, here's what I learned:

A Decade in the Industry, Four Years with Malibu

Alan Harvey brings a wealth of experience to Malibu Brewing. With over seven years in the industry, he started as a beertender at Figueroa Mountain's taproom before moving into outside sales. He got the call from Malibu right after the COVID-19 pandemic, marking the start of his journey with this incredible LA brand. Alan's been with Malibu for four years and counting! Hailing from San Fernando, he’s deeply connected to the local scene. He understands LA beer and embraces the challenge of growing this brand.

Spreading the Malibu Love: Distribution and Self-Reliance

Malibu Brewing’s reach extends from Ventura in the north to Downtown LA and Hollywood, covering the greater Los Angeles area. What’s even more impressive? Malibu Brewing self-distributes! A significant portion of this distribution is handled by Alan himself. This hands-on approach really shows their dedication.

Consistency is Key: The Malibu Promise

One of Malibu Brewing’s core tenets is consistency. They’re dedicated to ensuring that every customer experiences the same great beer every time. This commitment was reinforced by a significant brand refresh earlier this year. We noted its sleek, new look! Ryan, one of the brewery’s founders, is the creative force behind the brand's aesthetics. He designs all the eye-catching 16oz can designs. Just so you know, all of Malibu’s standard offerings are packaged in 12oz cans, while rotators are reserved for 16oz-ers.

Beyond the Flagships: The Innovation Behind the Brews

While Malibu Brewing prides itself on its consistent core offerings, they’re not afraid to innovate. I was particularly intrigued by their Hatch Green Chile Lager. Inspired by Ryan's New Mexico roots and love for Hatch Green Chilis, this unique beer started as a birthday gift from the brewery's original head brewer. It has evolved into its current rendition, with brewmaster Chaz adding his own flair. It was a gold medal winner at the 2024 Brewers Cup of CA and is typically released twice a year, between late summer and fall. It features a delicate smoked, roasted chili character. You’ve got to try a pint next time you’re in the tap room, alongside the Beachside Burrito or Not Just Another Quesadilla!

LA Influence: Quality, Inclusivity, and Local Sourcing

When I asked Alan about the LA market's influence, he emphasized their dedication to high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Malibu Brewing strives to create beers that appeal to both everyday beer drinkers and "beer nerds" alike. They foster an inclusive environment and are committed to supporting local farmers and businesses. This dedication really sets them apart in the competitive LA craft beer scene.

Overcoming Challenges: Community Support in Times of Need

Every brewery has its journey, and Malibu Brewing has a powerful story of resilience. In early 2025, during nearby fires, they partnered with World Central Kitchen, a non-profit organization. They opened their space to anyone needing a meal or a respite. They served over 13,000 free meals, including many for first responders. Their taproom became a crucial escape for locals. This pivotal moment solidified their identity as a community pillar.

Looking Ahead: Growth and New Horizons

The future is bright for Malibu Brewing. Their current expansion and a new location are just the beginning. Alan revealed that growth is a key focus. They’ll continue actively growing their brand, which may include more taprooms in the future. I guess we’ll just have to wait and see! In addition to the progress of their second location, partnering with Brwtxt, LA’s premier craft beer delivery service, will most certainly assist with their growth goals.

The Best of the Best: Alan's Picks

When it comes to his favorite Malibu beer, Alan's choice is the Big Rock Amber Lager. And what about the best beer in LA? Aside from his additional push for a Malibu beer, Happy Days (a beer brewed with locally beekeeper-sourced honey), he recommends Lawless Blacklight. This Czech Dark Lager is packed with crispy notes, a sprinkle of roastiness, and some expressive noble hops. His LA favorites are a testament to quality, community, and innovation.

Cheers to the Future!

So there you have it! Malibu Brewing isn’t just about great beer; it’s about community, innovation, and a commitment to quality. I can’t wait to see what they brew up next!