(Deschute Brewery & Public House / credit Deschutes Brewery)

Few craft breweries have had a bigger impact on the American beer scene than Deschutes Brewery.

Founded in Bend, Oregon, in the late 1980s, the brewery helped put both the Pacific Northwest and the city of Bend on the map as major beer destinations. While beer fans know Deschutes for favorites like Black Butte Porter and Fresh Squeezed IPA, there is a lot more to the brewery’s story than what’s in the glass.

And here are 10 things you might not know about Deschutes Brewery.

It Started As A Small Brewpub

Deschutes Brewery opened its doors in 1988 as a modest brewpub in downtown Bend. Founder Gary Fish saw an opportunity to bring craft beer culture to Central Oregon long before the region became a nationally recognized beer destination. The original pub quickly became a local gathering place and remains a popular stop for beer tourist today.

The Brewery Is Named After A River

The brewery takes its name from the Deschutes River, which runs through Central Oregon and the heart of Bend. The river has long been a defining feature of the region, attracting outdoor enthusiasts for fishing, rafting, and hiking. Naming the brewery after the river captured the region’s scenic vibe and straitened its deep connection to the local community.

Black Butte Porter Became A Craft Beer Icon

When many new craft beer fans were still getting acquainted with darker beers, Deschutes introduced Black Butte Porter. Named after a volcanic landmark near Bend, the beer helped demonstrate that porters could be approachable and flavorful. Decades later, it remains one of the most respected and widely available porters in the country. And in 2025 they introduced a non-alcoholic version that is just as delicious.

Bend Wasn’t A Beer Destination Yet

Today, Bend is famous for its breweries and beer tourism, but that was far from the case when Deschutes opened. The brewery played a major role in helping establish the city’s reputation as a craft beer hub. In many ways, the growth of Bend’s beer scene and the success of Deschutes have gone hand in hand.

Mirror Pond Pale Ale Was A Game Changer

Long before hazy IPAs dominated tap lists, Mirror Pond Pale Ale became one of the brewery’s flagship beers. The balanced pale ale helped introduce countless drinkers to flavorful craft beer and became a staple throughout the Pacific Northwest. For many beer fans, it served as a gateway into the craft beer world.

It Was One Of The Early Craft Brewing Success Stories

Deschutes emerged during the early years of the American craft beer movement. While many small breweries struggled to survive, Deschutes steadily expanded its production and distribution. It is currently the tenth biggest  craft brewing operation in the U.S, proof that  independent breweries can still compete on a national scale.

Fresh Squeezed IPA Arrived Later Than You Might Think

Despite being one of the brewery’s most recognizable beers today, Fresh Squeezed IPA did not debut until 2013. The beer quickly became a hit thanks to its juicy citrus character and approachable profile. It arrived just as consumer demand for hop-forward beers was exploding across the country.

The Brewery Loves Barrel-Aged Beer

Deschutes has built a strong reputation for barrel-aged releases over the years. The Abyss, an imperial stout aged with various barrel treatments, has become one of the brewery’s most sought-after seasonal offerings. Beer fans often line up or trade bottles to get their hands on special releases from the series.

Sustainability Has Been A Major Focus

The brewery has invested heavily in sustainability initiatives throughout its history. Efforts have included water conservation projects, renewable energy programs, waste reduction measures, and environmentally conscious brewing practices. These efforts reflect the brewery’s commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the region that inspired its name.

It Helped Put Oregon Craft Beer On The National Stage

Oregon has long been recognized as one of America’s premier beer-producing states, and Deschutes played a major role in building that reputation. Alongside a handful of pioneering breweries, it helped showcase the quality and creativity emerging from the Pacific Northwest. More than three decades after opening as a small brewpub in Bend, Deschutes Brewery continues to be a cornerstone of American craft beer.

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