Firestone Walker marks 30 years in Paso Robles
Milestone year includes updated packaging, events, and returning beers
– Firestone Walker is marking 30 years since brewing its first batch of Double Barrel Ale in a vineyard on California’s Central Coast.
Founded in 1996 by brothers-in-law Adam Firestone and David Walker, Firestone Walker began as a small operation and has since grown into a nationally recognized craft brewery. The brewery entered its fourth decade following 30 years of beer production focused on traditional styles, technical brewing practices, and product consistency.
“Thirty years in, we still believe the best beers are the ones that respect tradition but refuse to be trapped by it,” said Nick Firestone, chief executive officer for Firestone Walker. “This anniversary is about honoring where we came from while continuing to build a brewery that is relevant, curious, and future-facing.”
As part of the anniversary year, Firestone Walker released a new video titled Pour It All In. The video features founders Adam Firestone and David Walker, second-generation leader Nick Firestone, and longtime brewmaster Matt Brynildson. The video documents the brewery’s development from its early years through its current operations and highlights the individuals involved in shaping the company’s direction.
Firestone Walker is also introducing updated packaging for its original beers as part of its “Cheers to 30 Years” celebration. The refreshed packaging will debut with Double Barrel Ale, which has been brewed continuously since 1996. The beer remains the brewery’s flagship product.
Double Barrel Ale is partially fermented in a union of oak barrels, a method rooted in nineteenth-century British brewing. Firestone Walker states the beer’s recipe and brewing approach have remained consistent over three decades.
Union Jack IPA and Pivo Pilsner will also receive refreshed packaging designs later in the year. Both beers have received awards at international competitions, according to the brewery.
As part of its anniversary programming, Firestone Walker is bringing back Easy Jack as part of a newly released India pale ale mixed pack. First introduced in 2014, Easy Jack is included alongside Union Jack IPA, Firestone IPA, and a limited-edition double India pale ale called Diesel Thunder.
Firestone Walker will host anniversary-related events throughout the year. Planned activities include a 30th anniversary brewery block party during the Firestone Walker Invitational Beer Festival scheduled for May in Paso Robles, as well as Walker’s Wild Ride, a traveling series of events with bar and restaurant partners across the country.
Over its 30-year history, Firestone Walker has received multiple industry honors, including Brewery of the Decade from Paste Magazine and several Brewery of the Year awards from the Great American Beer Festival.
The brewery also operates the Propagator research and development brewhouse in Marina del Rey, where new beer styles and brewing methods are tested.
“Thirty years is a milestone,” Firestone said. “The work continues.”
