805 is a popular craft beer brand owned by Firestone Walker Brewing Company, which in turn is part of the Duvel Moortgat USA family. This means that while Firestone Walker developed and produces 805, the ultimate ownership lies with the larger Belgian-owned brewing group.
The Origins of 805 and Firestone Walker
The journey of 805 begins with its parent company, Firestone Walker Brewing Company. The Brewery was founded in 1996 by brother-in-law David Walker and Adam Firestone. What started as a passion project between two beer lovers, deeply rooted in the Central Coast of California, has since grown into an internationally recognized brewery known for its commitment to quality and innovation in craft brewing. The 805 beer itself is a reflection of this heritage, named after the area code of the Central Coast where the brewery originated.
Key Founders of Firestone Walker Brewing Company:
| Founder Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Adam Firestone | Co-founder |
| David Walker | Co-founder |
Their shared passion for brewing led to the creation of a diverse portfolio of acclaimed beers, with 805 becoming one of their most widely recognized and distributed offerings.
Duvel Moortgat USA's Ownership
In 2015, Firestone Walker Brewing Company joined the Duvel Moortgat USA family. This strategic partnership allowed Firestone Walker to maintain its identity and brewing philosophy while gaining access to the resources and expanded distribution network of a globally respected brewing group.
Duvel Moortgat is a family-owned Belgian brewing company with a rich history dating back to 1871. Known for its iconic Belgian strong pale ale, Duvel, the company has strategically acquired and partnered with several notable craft breweries across the globe, including:
- Boulevard Brewing Company (Kansas City, USA)
- Ommegang Brewery (Cooperstown, USA)
- Firestone Walker Brewing Company (Paso Robles, USA)
- Various European brands
This acquisition by Duvel Moortgat USA signifies a trend in the craft beer industry where independent breweries partner with larger entities to achieve broader reach and continue growth while preserving their craft legacy. Firestone Walker, and by extension its 805 brand, benefits from the financial backing and logistical support of Duvel Moortgat, helping to ensure its continued presence and innovation in the competitive beer market.
What This Means for 805 Beer
For consumers, the ownership structure largely means that 805 continues to be produced with the same quality and dedication that Firestone Walker is known for. The partnership allows for:
- Wider Distribution: Making 805 more accessible across various markets.
- Continued Innovation: Resources to invest in new recipes, sustainable practices, and brewing technology.
- Brand Integrity: Firestone Walker maintains operational control and brewing decisions for its brands, including 805.
Ultimately, 805 remains a product conceived and perfected by the Firestone Walker team, now supported by the global reach and heritage of Duvel Moortgat.
