“We’re endlessly grateful”: Bristol Brewing turns 30

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

The family-owned, independent craft brewery was started by Mike and Amanda Bristol on June 10, 1994. At the time, the fledgling brewery was one of only a few Colorado craft breweries, competing against giants like Coors and Miller. Today, their two original offerings, Laughing Lab Scottish Ale and Red Rocket Pale Ale, are famous statewide.

“It wasn’t always easy, convincing bar managers we weren’t brewing it in our basement, and explaining to customers that the bitter flavor they were tasting was supposed to be in there and that it was hops,” said Mike Bristol. “But we loved 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 medals from the Great American Beer Festival—and it’s the only Colorado beer to achieve that feat.

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

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

“We’re proud to be a part of Colorado Springs and we’re endlessly grateful to the beer drinkers of our town and all of the staff we’ve worked with over the years who’ve helped us build our brewery,” said Amanda Bristol.

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