Colorado’s most heartbreaking brewery closures of 2025
2025 was a challenging year for Colorado’s beer industry, with over 40 breweries shutting down across the state. However, this number is slightly misleading as some businesses closed multiple locations and others stopped brewing but remained open for other purposes. Despite this, the closures left a void in the local beer community.
Some notable closures on the Front Range included Great Divide Brewing Co., TRVE Brewing Co., and Dry Dock Brewing Co. These companies have transformed, leaving a sense of loss among beer enthusiasts. However, their beer is still available for purchase, even though the establishments themselves have closed.
Shawnee Adelson, the executive director of the Colorado Brewers Guild, mentioned that the cost of running a brewery has significantly increased over the years. She anticipates that breweries will continue to evolve by forming partnerships or expanding their offerings beyond beer.
Despite the closures, there were also positive developments in the industry. Blogger Stephen Adams highlighted the opening of two dozen new breweries in 2025. Additionally, the Western Slope saw growth in the number of breweries, with Grand Junction now hosting eight breweries.
One silver lining of brewery closures is that they leave behind existing facilities that can be utilized by new brewers. This can help reduce costs and make it easier for new businesses to enter the market.
While the closures have reshaped the local craft beer scene, there is still optimism for the future. Even though some long-standing breweries have closed, the industry continues to thrive with new openings and innovations.
Key Industry Changes in 2025:
Great Divide Brewing Co. Acquisition:
Great Divide Brewing Co., a pioneer in Colorado’s craft beer scene, was acquired by Wilding Brands in April. The brewery closed its Denver locations but continues to produce beer at Wilding’s facility.
Blue Moon Brewing Co. Taproom Closure:
Molson Coors closed the Blue Moon Brewing Co. taproom in RiNo after nine years, as part of its shift away from craft beer.
TRVE Brewing Co. Transformation:
TRVE Brewing Co. ceased in-house production in 2024 and now contracts its beer production. Its former space is now home to Music City Hot Chicken.
Dry Dock Brewing Co. Merger:
Dry Dock Brewing Co. merged with Left Hand Brewing Co. and will be closing its Aurora taproom after 20 years.
Call to Arms Brewing Co. Closure:
Call to Arms Brewing Co. shut down after a decade due to economic challenges post-COVID.
Sanitas Brewing Co. Shutdown:
Sanitas Brewing Co. closed its three locations in Boulder, Englewood, and Lafayette after 12 years due to rising costs and lower craft beer sales.
Small Brewery Closures:
Several small breweries, including Banded Oak Brewing Co., Burns Family Artisan Ales, and Raices Brewing Co., also closed their doors in 2025.
Despite these challenges, the Colorado beer industry remains resilient, with new opportunities and growth on the horizon.
