In 1859 Colorado's 1st brewery - The Rocky Mountain Brewery was established just outside of Denver (along the western shore of Cherry Creek in Auraria).  Miners arriving in Denver to search for fortunes in gold were known to enjoy a few drinks at the local saloon.  No wonder Denver (and Colorado) quickly developed a healthy brewing industry, with 23 breweries operating in 1893! 

Colorado is as a key (if not the key) to the growth of the craft brewing industry.  Boulder Beer Company (est 1979) was one of the nation’s 1st microbreweries and The Great American Beer Festival (est 1981) is the oldest and largest beer festival and competition in the United States!