August 15, 2023 – Family-owned Scotts Valley microbrewery Steel Bonnet Brewing Company is set for take off. Owners Sue and Donald Cramb have just launched a production brewery in Salinas that will allow them to brew ten times more of their malt-forward beers and ales.
In addition to expanding production and distribution, plans call for a second taproom to be located in Salinas and open next year. They intend to model the new outlet after the cozy taproom in Scotts Valley, which has a lively music scene and food truck program.
A new head brewer, Tyler Carney, has been hired to oversee the expansion at the Steel Bonnet Work Street Production Facility, with the Crambs taking on a more operational role.
“We are fully committed to continuing brewing operations in Scotts Valley and the Salinas expansion will allow us to employ the Scotts Valley brewery more as a pilot brewery focused on recipe development, experimentation and small batch ‘special’ beers. You can expect not just more beer to come out of Steel Bonnet but also more styles, flavors and aromas,” says Donald.
The brewery plans to first expand distribution to existing wholesale customers based in Santa Cruz and Monterey counties, then gradually begin selling its beer in cans and on draft throughout the tri-county area and the San Francisco Bay Area.
“It is very exciting, and a little scary, to see how our beer will be received in a broader context.” he adds.
The expansion was first planned in 2019, but put on the back burner during the pandemic.
The Crambs—natives of Scotland—started Steel Bonnet Brewing eight years ago and have developed a strong loyal fan following with their unique English, Scottish and American Ale style offerings and pub-like environment.
A party to celebrate Steel Bonnet’s 8-year anniversary and the Work Street expansion will take place on Saturday, September 30 from noon to 9pm at their Scotts Valley taproom located at 20 Victor Square B. Expect food, games, music and lots of great beer!
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At Edible Monterey Bay, our mission is to celebrate the local food culture of Santa Cruz, San Benito and Monterey Counties, season by season. We believe in sustainability, and we believe everyone has a right to healthful, clean and affordable food. We think knowing where our food comes from is powerful, and we hope our magazine, website and newsletters inspire readers to get to know and support our local growers, fishers, chefs, vintners and food artisans.
