Craft Beer Chronicles: Kendall Jones on the Past, Present, and Future of Washington Brewing

In this episode of the Exploring Washington State Podcast, Scott Cowan welcomes Kendall Jones, founder of the Washington Beer Blog, to discuss the history and future of craft beer in Washington State. Kendall shares his journey from an aspiring rock star to a renowned voice in the beer community, weaving together stories of personal discovery, local breweries, and the unique character of Washington beer.

From Bellevue to Blogging

Kendall’s story begins in Bellevue, Washington, where his teenage dreams of becoming a rock star shaped his early years. Although music didn’t become his career, Kendall’s creativity and passion for storytelling found a new outlet in writing. His career path shifted again when he discovered the world of craft beer, a moment sparked by a life-changing sip of Samuel Smith’s Tadcaster Porter.

That experience opened the door to exploring beer differently, and Kendall began documenting his journey. Eventually, he launched the Washington Beer Blog. This website quickly became a trusted resource for beer enthusiasts across the state.

The Craft Beer Boom in Washington

Washington’s craft beer industry has grown immensely since the early 2000s, and Kendall had a front-row seat to its evolution. When Kendall first considered writing a book about local breweries, he realized the market was expanding too rapidly to keep up. Instead, he turned to blogging, a format that allowed him to document the dynamic changes as they happened.

Kendall reflects on the early days of now-iconic breweries like Georgetown Brewing, whose Bodhizafa IPA helped define the style of Washington IPAs. He discusses how smaller, independent breweries have contributed to the state’s reputation as a leader in craft beer and the unique challenges they face in a competitive market.

The Stories Behind the Beer

Beyond the beer itself, Kendall has always been captivated by the people and stories that define the industry. From the innovative brewers crafting bold new flavors to the small business owners overcoming challenges, Kendall’s blog has highlighted the human side of brewing. He shares anecdotes from his years of experience, offering listeners a deeper appreciation for the passion and hard work that go into every pint.

Scott and Kendall also discuss the importance of community in the craft beer world. Local breweries often become gathering places that reflect the personality of their neighborhoods. Whether it’s a cozy taproom in a small town or a bustling brewery in Seattle, each spot tells a story about the people and culture of the area.

What’s Next for Craft Beer?

Kendall explores some challenges facing the craft beer industry, from rising production costs to changing consumer preferences. He explains how breweries adapt by experimenting with lighter styles, like lagers, and embracing trends such as non-alcoholic beers.

Despite the obstacles, Kendall remains optimistic about the future. He points to brewers' continued innovation and creativity as a reason to be excited. New breweries are still opening, and established ones are finding ways to stay relevant in an ever-changing landscape.

Why Washington Beer Matters

Washington’s beer culture is more than just a collection of breweries—it reflects the state’s creativity, resilience, and sense of community. Kendall believes the industry’s success lies in its ability to evolve while staying true to its roots. From the farmers growing hops in the Yakima Valley to the brewers experimenting with new styles, Washington beer celebrates local ingenuity.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves craft beer or is curious about the stories behind Washington’s vibrant brewing industry. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or new to craft brews, Kendall’s insights and passion will inspire you.

Tune in for a conversation that delves deep into the evolution of craft beer, the people behind it, and what makes Washington a special place for beer lovers.