When the Brewers Association released its list of the Top 50 Craft Breweries in the United States for 2024, Boulder County had reason to raise a pint in celebration. Monster Brewing, based in Longmont, just outside Boulder, earned the #10 spot nationally—a remarkable climb that signals both growth and staying power in a challenging year for craft brewers.

In a year where the overall number of operational craft breweries declined for the first time since 2005, and total craft beer production dropped 4%, Monster Brewing surged ahead, thanks to strategic acquisitions, smart branding, and the growing popularity of its product lineup.

The Power Behind the Name: What Brands Make Up Monster Brewing?

While the name “Monster Brewing” might raise eyebrows for those familiar with Monster Energy drinks, the company’s craft beer portfolio tells a deeper, more flavorful story. In 2022, Monster Beverage Corporation entered the beer business by acquiring CANarchy Craft Brewery Collective, a move that brought several beloved craft beer brands under its wing. That move has helped it skyrocket to the top 10 in just a few short years.

Here are the standout brands under the Monster Brewing umbrella:

• Oskar Blues Brewery – A Colorado classic with deep roots in Lyons and Longmont, known for its bold Dale’s Pale Ale, Mama’s Little Yella Pils, and its role in pioneering canned craft beer.

• Cigar City Brewing – Based in Tampa, Florida, this brand is beloved for Jai Alai IPA, one of the most recognized and awarded IPAs in the country.

• Deep Ellum Brewing – A Dallas-based brewery with standout beers like Dallas Blonde and Deep Ellum IPA.

• Wasatch Brewery and Squatters Craft Beers – Two well-established Utah breweries known for flavorful, quirky beers and mountain culture flair.

Together, these brands form the backbone of Monster Brewing’s reach and reputation. But right here in Boulder County, Oskar Blues continues to be the face of Monster Brewing, maintaining its identity while benefiting from expanded distribution and resources.

Oskar Blues Brewery

Boulder’s Brewing Pride

Boulder has always been at the heart of craft beer culture. With innovative breweries, passionate brewers, and hop-loving locals, the region is known for being ahead of the curve. Monster Brewing’s success continues that legacy—rooted in local character but growing on a national scale.

In a year where many breweries struggled, Boulder stood out thanks to places like Oskar Blues’ Longmont taproom, which offers not just beer but a full sensory experience—music, food, outdoor space, and an unmistakable Colorado vibe.

Why This Matters

Monster Brewing’s place in the top 10 isn’t just a business milestone—it’s a sign of evolution in craft brewing. The blending of iconic brands under a powerful umbrella allows for wider distribution without sacrificing the creativity and quality that makes craft beer special.

So whether you’re sipping a Jai Alai on Pearl Street, cracking open a Dale’s Pale Ale by Boulder Creek, or discovering a new brew at the Longmont taproom, you’re part of a bigger story—Boulder’s continued rise as a craft beer leader.

Cheers to that.

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