Breweries are deeply ingrained in Colorado’s culture, shaping social scenes for decades. For many, including myself, the brewery experience dates back to the late 1990s. During my college years, Fridays often meant a trip to Boundry Bay Brewery in Bellingham – a detail perhaps best kept from my mother.
A vibrant outdoor brewery setting with people enjoying craft beer, highlighting Yampa Valley Brewing Co. in Hayden, Colorado, and the brewery culture of the region.
For over two decades, breweries have been a constant in my life. This continued when I became Mayor of HeidiTown in 2007. My journey has taken me to breweries across Colorado, and I’ve covered numerous beer festivals. In the past, it was possible to track every new brewery opening in Colorado, but those days are long gone as the craft beer scene has exploded.
People enjoying craft beers at an outdoor brewery, featuring Three Barrel Brewing Company in Del Norte, Colorado, showcasing the relaxed atmosphere of Colorado breweries.
Traveling with my partner Ryan to a new town often includes a brewery visit. There’s an instant sense of belonging in these spaces. Whether in Pagosa Springs, Hayden, or Trinidad, stepping into a brewery feels like coming home. We understand the culture, we speak the language of craft beer enthusiasts.
However, nowhere feels more like “home” than Grimm Brothers Brewhouse in Loveland, Colorado. This is our true “local,” borrowing a British term for a favorite neighborhood pub. For those wondering about the full experience, including dining, it’s worth exploring what Grimm Brothers Brewhouse offers beyond their exceptional beers. While primarily focused on their brews, understanding if and Who Serves Food At Grimm Brothers Brewhouse can enhance your visit.
My connection with Grimm Brothers goes way back. In 2009, I penned one of the earliest articles about them on HeidiTown.com. It praised their beer after a tasting event at The Pourhouse Bar & Grill, even before they opened their own taproom. I further highlighted their venture in a 2010 piece for the Berthoud Surveyor.
A photo of Aaron Heaton and Don Chapman, the founders of Grimm Brothers Brewhouse, taken in 2010, highlighting the people behind the popular Colorado brewery.
Since their early days in a smaller taproom near their current location, we’ve been regulars at Grimm Brothers, drawn by the beer and engaging conversations.
Grimm Brothers Brewhouse celebrated its 10th anniversary in July, a significant milestone, especially in the brewery business. Ryan and I, both business owners for over a decade ourselves, understand the weight of this achievement. If there was a guaranteed formula for business longevity, it would be invaluable.
But to get back to the story…
When asked to share a favorite Grimm Brothers memory for their anniversary, brevity was requested. However, asking a writer to recount a cherished memory concisely is often a challenge.
A couple celebrating Valentine's Day at Grimm Brothers Brewhouse in Loveland, Colorado, capturing a special moment at the brewery.
I chose to share it here because brewery culture, and specifically Grimm Brothers Brewhouse, is not just a part of Colorado’s story, it’s woven into my personal narrative and, consequently, the HeidiTown story.
Beyond my reflections, you’ll find a video I created for Visit Loveland. As part of #LovelandLovesTourism week (June 8-14), I, along with others, was asked to create a short video showcasing a favorite local spot. Unsurprisingly, mine was Grimm Brothers.
So, without further delay, here’s the piece I contributed for their 10th anniversary.
Happy Birthday, Grimm!
My memories at Grimm Brothers Brewhouse are plentiful, largely because it’s our local haunt. I recall hilarious moments from Loveland Oktoberfests held in Grimm’s parking lot – playing Stump and enthusiastically dancing to German techno music.
The author enjoying Loveland Oktoberfest at Grimm Brothers Brewhouse in 2017, showing the festive atmosphere and community events hosted at the brewery.
Wonderful memories also come from the inaugural Barbarian Feast, where Russell delivered toasts from atop a table, and Don engaged in arm-wrestling matches. Robyn looked charming in her dirndl, and then there was Brooke accidentally spilling beer on my camera and purse – thankfully, the camera survived!
Don Chapman participating in the Barbarian Feast at Grimm Brothers Brewhouse in 2017, illustrating the unique and engaging events hosted by the brewery.
I deeply appreciate the Grimm Brothers team for allowing me to shadow them at the Great American Beer Festival during a magazine assignment. Witnessing them win a medal there was electrifying. Even from the distant seats, my cheers echoed like any devoted fan. Encountering these folks at beer festivals statewide was always a pleasure. The long lines at Grimm’s booth during Montrose’s beer festival/Oktoberfest were a testament to their popularity.
Pre-GABF festivities in Denver, Colorado, indicating Grimm Brothers Brewhouse's presence and participation in major beer events.
Countless conversations with Aaron, Don, and Scott have been enjoyed over the years. A recent delightful memory involves our puppy Fritzi playing with Odie, Laura’s puppy – a truly comical scene.
Laura Pilato, head brewer at Grimm Brothers Brewhouse, pictured at Loveland Oktoberfest 2017, highlighting the key people and friendly faces behind the brewery.
These moments, among many others, form a lifetime of cherished memories at Grimm Brothers. Wishing them another decade filled with success and joy! I’m honored to have played a small role in their beer journey.
