SEATTLE, Wa – May 26, 2026 – Owner Greg Macaulay of Distant West Brewing of Ballard, WA announced today that they are ceasing operations eFective immediately for personal reasons. See Macaulay’s Statement below for more information:
“Hi Friends,
Unfortunately, not a happy update here today. For personal reasons, I have decided to oFicially cease operations at Distant West, eFective immediately.
I have attempted to write this many times over. With how deeply ingrained Distant West is with my life and how much it is a representation of myself, keeping it concise, not personal and on topic is diFicult. I was also trying to find an appropriate (i.e. “Perfect”) time to release it, which is impossible – especially when it is bad news.
I want to reinforce my upmost gratitude to the people who have supported my little grassroots brewery. Every time I walked in and saw people enjoying the beer with the company of friends and family never got old. It really didn’t. The adjacent breweries always were friendly and while yes, we all wanted to sell the most beer, it was never malicious or cutthroat. We all oFered help and support to one another and truly believed in the concept of high tides raising all ships. The Seattle beer scene is truly unique and loving. I felt accepted and “at home” immediately and I am glad that I got to work with so many of you in one way or another. My heart grew three sizes working with y’all.
What’s next for me? No clue. I am currently focused on the closure and trying to be a more available friend and family member to the people who have been VERY patient with me these 4 years of non stop work. Yes, this started in 2022 for me, time flies!
With all that now said publicly, the Ballard brewery space and equipment will soon be available if a brewery-in-planning wants a turnkey space that has hosted two kick-ass award-winning breweries and is ready for its third. More information will be released on that shortly and any interest can be directed towards my email – greg@distantwest.beer
If you need to, the best way to contact me is through the email above. I will respectfully request to please keep correspondence regarding to any active closing tasks and the transfer of equipment and leasing at this time. I want to make sure that my focus is on the right place and not be distracted as I am shutting everything down. Appreciate it!
So once again, thank you for all the support, friendship and overflowing radness. Continue to vehemently shop local small businesses first.
Be excellent to each other and party on dudes.
Sincerely,
Greg Macaulay
Owner/Brewer/Closer-Downer
Distant West Brewing”
