Craft beer comes to Wellington

The big silver grain elevator at 8181 First St. in Wellington will soon have a new tenant. By February or March, Askew Brewery will take up residence alongside Grouse Malting and Roasting Company, which already occupies part of the building.

Co-owner and founder, Ryan Goude received a conditional use permit from the town of Wellington in December and now awaits a federal brewing license, plus local distributor and business licenses before he can officially open for business. “I’ve been going to lots of meetings,” he said.

Goude and his partner and brewmaster, Steve Turner, expect to produce traditional and gluten-free beers. They will offer between six and eight choices to begin with.

Turner, who was co-owner and brewmaster at Asher Brewery in Boulder, has been in the business for 20 years, holds awards for multiple beers and is recognized as Colorado’s organic brewer.

When Goude began brewing beer in his home six years ago, he knew immediately that he wanted to make a career of his hobby. Happenstance brought Turner and Goude together, and the idea for a brewery in Wellington was born.

The fact that Grouse Malting specializes in gluten-free grains such as millet and quinoa, makes access to these grains easy for Askew.

The brewery will feature a small tap room where people can sample the products. “I like the idea of having the same beer in a gluten-free and traditional form so that customers with gluten intolerance can enjoy beer along with a companion that prefers the traditional variety.

Goude invites anyone interested to check out askewbrewery.com and consider investing $100 in the “lifetime mug club” which offers members a 25-ounce mug that can be refilled for life at the price of a 16-ounce glass of beer.