Honoring Seven Legends Who Have Shaped Washington’s Brewing Industry
Seattle, WA — The Washington Brewers Guild (WBG) is proud to announce the inaugural class of inductees to the Washington Brewers Guild Hall of Fame, recognizing seven individuals whose groundbreaking contributions have shaped Washington’s vibrant craft beer scene. These esteemed recipients will be honored for their exceptional leadership, innovation, mentorship, excellence in the craft, advocacy, and dedication to the state’s brewing industry.
Hall of Fame Inductees will be awarded at the Washington Beer Awards ceremony following the Washington Craft Beer Summit on Monday, November 3, 2025, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Seattle Airport in SeaTac, WA.
“We are incredibly excited to launch the Washington Brewers Guild Hall of Fame,” said Robyn Schumacher, President of the Washington Brewers Guild Board of Directors. “These seven inductees represent the very best of our industry—visionaries who have contributed immensely to the growth and success of Washington’s craft beer community. Their hard work, passion, and commitment have paved the way for the thriving industry we celebrate today.”
The seven inaugural inductees are:
• Robert Brenlin, Allied Member honor; owner/operator of Latona Pub, Hopvine, and Fiddler’s Inn.
• Dick Cantwell; Elysian Brewing, Magnolia Brewing, Brewers Publication Author
• Bert Grant; Yakima Malting and Brewing Co, Hopsteiner (posthumous)
• Charles and Rose Ann Finkel; Pike Brewing Co and Merchant Du Vin
• Mari and Will Kemper; Chuckanut Brewery and Thomas Kemper Brewing
“The Hall of Fame is an important recognition, from the brewers, of those who have gone above and beyond to elevate Washington as one of the top craft beer destinations in the world,” said Don Spencer, Chair of the Hall of Fame Committee. “Each of these individuals has had a lasting impact on our industry, and it’s our honor to celebrate their achievements with this prestigious award.”
The Washington Brewers Guild Hall of Fame will become a permanent tribute to individuals who have made significant contributions in areas such as innovation, entrepreneurship, community building, and advocacy. Their legacy will be commemorated for generations to come, inspiring future leaders and fostering a sense of pride within the state’s craft beer community.
The awards ceremony will be a highlight of the Guild’s annual celebration, and all are invited to attend to witness this historic occasion. Tickets and further event details can be found at https://tickets.washingtonbrewersguild.org/e/2025wacraftbeersummit/tickets
