‘We are endlessly grateful’: Bristol Brewing turns 30

Mike and Amanda Bristol and friend. Courtesy: Bristol Brewing Company

(COLORADO SPRINGS) — Bristol Brewing Company turned 30 this week. On June 13, 2024, the local brewery celebrated 30 years of activity.

The independent, family-owned craft brewery was founded by Mike and Amanda Bristol on June 10, 1994. At the time, the fledgling brewery was one of the few craft breweries in Colorado, competing with giants like Coors and Miller. Today, their two original offerings, Laughing Lab Scottish Ale and Red Rocket Pale Ale, are renowned across the country.

“It wasn’t always easy, convincing bar managers that we weren’t brewing it in the basement and explaining to customers that the bitter flavor they were tasting was supposed to be there and that it was hops,” said Mike Bristol. “But we liked what we were doing and people were pretty receptive.”

Bristol Brewing Company’s beer has been praised for its high quality and consistency. Laughing Lab has won 11 Great American Beer Festival medals – and is the only beer from Colorado to accomplish this feat.

Bristol also gives back to the community. They support nonprofits with a donation per pint each week and have “Beneficial Beers,” including a local favorite, Venetucci Pumpkin Ale.

Bristol’s award-winning beers are only available in Colorado on draft and in six-packs. They are also available at their Ivywild School pub and brewpub. For more information, visit bristolbrewing.com or follow them on Instagram @bristolbrewing or Facebook @bristolbrewingcompany.

“We are proud to be a part of Colorado Springs and are forever grateful to the beer drinkers of our city and all the staff we have worked with over the years who have helped us build our brewery,” said Amanda. Bristol.