Our History

Once upon a time, a family of passionate beer lovers came together to create something special. They wanted to create exceptional beer and make a living doing something they loved. And so, in 1995, Bear Republic Brewing Company was born. 

Their original brewery, nestled off the downtown square in Healdsburg, California, was their playground. Here, they experimented with different ingredients and ultimately created some of their best-loved brews. Ricardo's Red Rocket Ale, Racer 5 IPA, and many others were born in that brewhouse.

As word of their delicious beer spread, so did their popularity. Rapid growth beckoned, and Bear Republic delivered. All their beer that goes to market is brewed and packaged with the utmost care. But where does their secret lie? It's simple – they hand-select every ingredient for each batch. The grains and hops are chosen for their unique characteristics, and the recipes and formulas are crafted with precision and care.

Bear Republic has been a leader in the craft beer industry both in Sonoma County and Nationwide for decades and has now partnered with another independent craft beer powerhouse: Drake’s Brewing Company in San Leandro, California. Together they plan to expand the brand and continue to brew the high-quality, great-value beer you all know and love. 

They're proud of their roots and excited for what the future holds. They're always experimenting, trying new things, and pushing the boundaries of what great beer can be.

Below, you'll find a timeline of notable events in Bear Republic history.