For years, Brewmaster Matt Brynildson dreamed about creating a beer club that would directly connect Firestone Walker’s most interesting beers with the brewery’s most passionate fans. That time has now come with the launch of Brewmaster’s Collective—a beer club dedicated to “the best of the best” from Matt and his team.
“The most exciting thing for me is that we will be creating a series of exclusive beers that will only be available to club members. This is where we can get decadent and have some fun. Basically, it’s our very best small-lot creations shared directly with the folks who will appreciate them the most!” – Brewmaster Matt Brynildson
Join the 2022 Waitlist
Membership includes eight curated collections of small-batch Vintage and Barrelworks releases shipped to your door throughout 2021.
Your eight collections will span a total of 27 separate beers, including 14 member-only exclusives.
You will receive a Welcome Pack featuring an exclusive welcome beer, Brewmaster’s Collective Membership Card, commemorative coasters and deck of playing cards.
Shipping is always included, and each collection will include exclusive glassware selected by Brewmaster Matt Brynildson.
Each collection will be accompanied by an online guided tasting with the Brewmaster.
15% off beer and merchandise online and in-store
10% off dine-in or take-out at Taproom restaurants in Paso Robles, Buellton and Venice
Access to purchase select limited quantity Library beers, as released
Early access to online beer releases
Opportunity to purchase additional Brewmaster’s Collective exclusive beer
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Annual Membership $599
Membership available for California residents only
For years, Brewmaster Matt Brynildson dreamed about creating a beer club that would directly connect our most interesting beers with our most passionate fans. That time has now come.
Watch*All beers, shipping time & formats are subject to change
Shipping with Parabola Collection
As a member of Bremaster’s Collective, we’ll make it official and start you off with a stainless steel membership card, leather coasters, custom playing cards and Dark Ray—our first “Brewmaster’s Reserve Exclusive” beer. Welcome Pack will arrive with your Parabola Collection.
Bourbon Barrel-Aged Blended Ale with Vanilla, Cocoa Nibs, and Toasted Coconut
ABV: 11.6% IBU: 40 SRM: 110
Introducing Dark Ray—your Brewmaster’s Collective welcome beer and our first “BR Exclusive.” We went all out to create this beer, working with a third-generation local vanilla importer to secure Madagascar vanilla beans. We incorporated the beans into a special bourbon barrel-aged ale along with 400 pounds of coconut and 300 pounds of cocoa nibs. The result is an epic new beer to kick your membership off.
Cases Produced: 300
BREWMASTER’S COLLECTIVE EXCLUSIVE
Bourbon Barrel-Aged Blended Ale with Vanilla, Cocoa Nibs, and Toasted Coconut
ABV: 11.6% IBU: 40 SRM: 110
Introducing Dark Ray—your Brewmaster’s Collective welcome beer and our first “BR Exclusive.” We went all out to create this beer, working with a third-generation local vanilla importer to secure Madagascar vanilla beans. We incorporated the beans into a special bourbon barrel-aged ale along with 400 pounds of coconut and 300 pounds of cocoa nibs. The result is an epic new beer to kick your membership off.
Cases Produced: 300
BREWMASTER’S COLLECTIVE EXCLUSIVE
Shipping Late February
Experience the ultimate immersion into the world of Parabola. This collection features the latest release of our iconic barrel-aged imperial stout along with two exciting variants that take the Parabola experience to new heights. Includes a pair of custom Glencairn glasses.
Imperial stout aged in whiskey barrels
ABV: 13.6% IBU: 55 SRM: 160
Aged for first time in an equal mix of bourbon, rye and wheat whiskey barrels, accentuating Parabola’s signature richness and intensity with vintage-specific hints of black pepper and cereal grain.
Cases Produced: 3250
Imperial Stout aged in Whiskey Barrels
ABV: 15.5% IBU: 48 SRM: 160
A small-batch Parabola matured for 12 months in premium bourbon barrels, then transferred to a separate lot of wheat whiskey barrels for an additional year of aging—all for an impossibly smooth sipping experience.
Cases Produced: 450
Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels with Amburana Wood
ABV: 14.6% IBU: 55 SRM: 160
A small-batch Parabola aged for 12 months in premium eight-year-old bourbon barrels, then circulated with spirals of Brazilian Amburana hardwood to impart exotic hints of vanilla and baking spice.
Cases Produced: 450
Imperial stout aged in whiskey barrels
ABV: 13.6% IBU: 55 SRM: 160
Aged for first time in an equal mix of bourbon, rye and wheat whiskey barrels, accentuating Parabola’s signature richness and intensity with vintage-specific hints of black pepper and cereal grain.
Cases Produced: 3250
Imperial Stout aged in Whiskey Barrels
ABV: 15.5% IBU: 48 SRM: 160
A small-batch Parabola matured for 12 months in premium bourbon barrels, then transferred to a separate lot of wheat whiskey barrels for an additional year of aging—all for an impossibly smooth sipping experience.
Cases Produced: 450
Imperial Stout aged in Bourbon Barrels with Amburana Wood
ABV: 14.6% IBU: 55 SRM: 160
A small-batch Parabola aged for 12 months in premium eight-year-old bourbon barrels, then circulated with spirals of Brazilian Amburana hardwood to impart exotic hints of vanilla and baking spice.
Cases Produced: 450
Shipping Early April
We got together with some of our most feral friends to create this eclectic wild ale collection, featuring two collaborations as well as the latest release of Feral One from Barrelworks. Includes a pair of Teku Taster glasses.
Wild Ale Fermented with Red Grape Skins
ABV: 6.7%
Once again, Barrelworks Master Blender Jim Crooks has been foraging out in the vineyards, this time in collaboration with Santa Barbara County’s Whitcraft Winery. Co-fermenting a special wild ale with Whitcraft’s freshly-pressed red grape skins, he has created the beer world’s answer to Beaujolais Nouveau.
Cases Produced: 136
MEMBER EXCLUSIVE
American Wild Ale
ABV: 6.1%
Our new annual release marking Barrelworks’ 8th anniversary, Feral One is a blend of select barrels made as an ode to traditional Belgian farmhouse beers. Experience the beer that started it all for Barrelworks.
Cases Produced: 194
Mixed Fermentation Wild Ale with White Grapes
ABV: 9.0%
Anything goes in “All Things Go” as we embark on this rootsy collaboration with Austin’s Jester King Brewery. Combining grapes from Curtis Vineyards—all macerated by foot—with Jester King’s proprietary yeast and bacteria cultures, we have created a hybrid wild ale that will dazzle your palate.
Cases Produced: 124
MEMBER EXCLUSIVE
Wild Ale Fermented with Red Grape Skins
ABV: 6.7%
Once again, Barrelworks Master Blender Jim Crooks has been foraging out in the vineyards, this time in collaboration with Santa Barbara County’s Whitcraft Winery. Co-fermenting a special wild ale with Whitcraft’s freshly-pressed red grape skins, he has created the beer world’s answer to Beaujolais Nouveau.
Cases Produced: 136
MEMBER EXCLUSIVE
American Wild Ale
ABV: 6.1%
Our new annual release marking Barrelworks’ 8th anniversary, Feral One is a blend of select barrels made as an ode to traditional Belgian farmhouse beers. Experience the beer that started it all for Barrelworks.
Cases Produced: 194
Mixed Fermentation Wild Ale with White Grapes
ABV: 9.0%
Anything goes in “All Things Go” as we embark on this rootsy collaboration with Austin’s Jester King Brewery. Combining grapes from Curtis Vineyards—all macerated by foot—with Jester King’s proprietary yeast and bacteria cultures, we have created a hybrid wild ale that will dazzle your palate.
Cases Produced: 124
MEMBER EXCLUSIVE
Shipping Early June
Barrel Program Manager Eric Ponce is always pushing the envelope of flavor and innovation, using inspired ingredients to produce beers that echo your favorite cocktails. This collection features his latest creations as well as special glassware.
Mezcal & Orange Bitters Barrel Aged Ale Brewed with Agave Nectar, Chili, Sea Salt, & Lime Peel
ABV: 12.4% IBU: 14 SRM: 28
Echoing the traditional Mezcalita recipe, this specialty base beer was brewed with agave, chile peppers, sea salt, and aged in mezcal and orange bitters barrels, all finished with a touch of lime zest to offer an authentic sipping experience inspired by the Mezcalita cocktail.
Whiskey Sour inspired Vintage Ale
ABV: 10.2% IBU: 18 SRM: 15
The Whiskey Sour was originated and popularized in Waukesha, Wisconsin. It also happens to be our Brewmaster’s favorite bourbon cocktail. Waukesha Press is our take on this classic elixir that mixes the kick of bourbon with aromatics of cherry and orange; a touch of tartness; and a pop of fresh lemon.
BREWMASTER’S COLLECTIVE EXCLUSIVE
Tequila Barrel-Aged Cocktail Inspired Ale with Orange Peel and Hibiscus
ABV: 11% IBU: 21 SRM: 28
Tequila Barrel Sunrise is a spirited riff on the classic namesake cocktail, aged in Extra Añejo tequila barrels and infused with orange zest and hibiscus. The result is a uniquely delicious blonde barleywine that offers an authentic Tequila Sunrise sipping experience.
Mezcal & Orange Bitters Barrel Aged Ale Brewed with Agave Nectar, Chili, Sea Salt, & Lime Peel
ABV: 12.4% IBU: 14 SRM: 28
Echoing the traditional Mezcalita recipe, this specialty base beer was brewed with agave, chile peppers, sea salt, and aged in mezcal and orange bitters barrels, all finished with a touch of lime zest to offer an authentic sipping experience inspired by the Mezcalita cocktail.
Whiskey Sour inspired Vintage Ale
ABV: 10.2% IBU: 18 SRM: 15
The Whiskey Sour was originated and popularized in Waukesha, Wisconsin. It also happens to be our Brewmaster’s favorite bourbon cocktail. Waukesha Press is our take on this classic elixir that mixes the kick of bourbon with aromatics of cherry and orange; a touch of tartness; and a pop of fresh lemon.
BREWMASTER’S COLLECTIVE EXCLUSIVE
Tequila Barrel-Aged Cocktail Inspired Ale with Orange Peel and Hibiscus
ABV: 11% IBU: 21 SRM: 28
Tequila Barrel Sunrise is a spirited riff on the classic namesake cocktail, aged in Extra Añejo tequila barrels and infused with orange zest and hibiscus. The result is a uniquely delicious blonde barleywine that offers an authentic Tequila Sunrise sipping experience.
Shipping Mid July
With one of the most storied barrel-aging programs in craft beer, we are always acquiring barrels from premium spirits producers and dreaming up new ways to create with them. For this collection, we are going big with not one, but two exclusive “large format” barrel-aged beers accompanied by special glassware.
The Brewmaster is curating the details of this beer. Specifics will be updated closer to the ship date, but we’ve heard rumors of large format bottles, corks & cages, and bottle conditioning. Stay tuned for updates
BREWMASTER’S COLLECTIVE EXCLUSIVE
The Brewmaster is curating the details of this beer. Specifics will be updated closer to the ship date, but we’ve heard rumors of large format bottles, corks & cages, and bottle conditioning. Stay tuned for updates
BREWMASTER’S COLLECTIVE EXCLUSIVE
The Brewmaster is curating the details of this beer. Specifics will be updated closer to the ship date, but we’ve heard rumors of large format bottles, corks & cages, and bottle conditioning. Stay tuned for updates
BREWMASTER’S COLLECTIVE EXCLUSIVE
The Brewmaster is curating the details of this beer. Specifics will be updated closer to the ship date, but we’ve heard rumors of large format bottles, corks & cages, and bottle conditioning. Stay tuned for updates
BREWMASTER’S COLLECTIVE EXCLUSIVE
Shipping Mid August
With a background in food science and a passion for all things edible, Barrelworks Master Blender Jim Crooks continually forages for unique ingredients in the pursuit of head-spinning flavors. This collection showcases some of his greatest finds and craziest creations. Includes special glassware.
American Wild Ale
An unbelievably crushable, fresh take on our wild ales loaded with fruit flavors and aromas.
Fruited Wild Ale
Originally intended for FWIBF 2020, this beer made in conjunction with Fonta Flora, an ale with nectarines and apricots pops with fresh aromas and signature funk from our wild brethren in North Carolina.
Fruited Wild Ale
We invited our friends from Yeast of Eden in Salinas to help us get wild with some olallieberries.
MEMBER EXCLUSIVE
American Wild Ale
An unbelievably crushable, fresh take on our wild ales loaded with fruit flavors and aromas.
Fruited Wild Ale
Originally intended for FWIBF 2020, this beer made in conjunction with Fonta Flora, an ale with nectarines and apricots pops with fresh aromas and signature funk from our wild brethren in North Carolina.
Fruited Wild Ale
We invited our friends from Yeast of Eden in Salinas to help us get wild with some olallieberries.
MEMBER EXCLUSIVE
Shipping Late September
Our Terroir Project is all about blurring the genres of beer and wine to explore how ‘terroir’—or sense of place—drives what we taste. True to form, this collection showcases our finest wine-beer hybrids, revealing the unlikely synergy between grape and grain. Includes special glassware.
Wild Ale with wine grapes from Andrew Murray Vineyards
To create this hybrid wild ale, we secured wine grapes from Santa Barbara County’s Andrew Murray Vineyards. Marked with the fruits and fingerprints of our local land, Terroir Trois blurs the line between beer and wine, challenging conventional thinking and drinking.
MEMBER EXCLUSIVE
Hybrid Ale with wine grapes
Matt and his team are still formulating the details of this beer. We will share more specifics closer to the ship date, but we’ve heard rumors of a collaborative blend between our Vintage and Barrelworks programs, pairing wheat wine and wild grapes.
BREWMASTER’S COLLECTIVE EXCLUSIVE
Wild Ale with wine grapes from Thacher Winery
To create this hybrid wild ale, we secured wine grapes our friends at Thacher Winery in Paso Robles. Marked with the fruits and fingerprints of our local land, Terroir Quatre blurs the line between beer and wine, challenging conventional thinking and drinking.
MEMBER EXCLUSIVE
Wild Ale with wine grapes from Andrew Murray Vineyards
To create this hybrid wild ale, we secured wine grapes from Santa Barbara County’s Andrew Murray Vineyards. Marked with the fruits and fingerprints of our local land, Terroir Trois blurs the line between beer and wine, challenging conventional thinking and drinking.
MEMBER EXCLUSIVE
Hybrid Ale with wine grapes
Matt and his team are still formulating the details of this beer. We will share more specifics closer to the ship date, but we’ve heard rumors of a collaborative blend between our Vintage and Barrelworks programs, pairing wheat wine and wild grapes.
BREWMASTER’S COLLECTIVE EXCLUSIVE
Wild Ale with wine grapes from Thacher Winery
To create this hybrid wild ale, we secured wine grapes our friends at Thacher Winery in Paso Robles. Marked with the fruits and fingerprints of our local land, Terroir Quatre blurs the line between beer and wine, challenging conventional thinking and drinking.
MEMBER EXCLUSIVE
Shipping Late October
In our 25th anniversary year, we are taking our legendary Anniversary Ale program to the next level with this exclusive collection. In addition to enjoying our latest Anniversary Ale—XXV—you will experience each of individual beers behind this masterful blend. Includes special glassware.
Barrel-Aged Blended Ale
Every August, we embark on an annual rite: the creation of our next Anniversary Ale, blended with the help of local winemakers. Winemakers are practicing experts in the art of blending, which is why we have sought their involvement ever since making our first Anniversary Ale in 2006. This year, the result will be XXV—marking our 25th anniversary.
For the first time ever, we will individually bottle each component beer included in our XXV Anniversary Ale blend. Once the blend is completed, Brewmaster Matt Brynildson will hand select the best representative barrels, allowing members to “deconstruct” the blend and taste through the same beers the winemakers and brewers did on their way to creating XXV. Three of these will be only accessible to you as a member.
Barrel-Aged Blended Ale
Every August, we embark on an annual rite: the creation of our next Anniversary Ale, blended with the help of local winemakers. Winemakers are practicing experts in the art of blending, which is why we have sought their involvement ever since making our first Anniversary Ale in 2006. This year, the result will be XXV—marking our 25th anniversary.
For the first time ever, we will individually bottle each component beer included in our XXV Anniversary Ale blend. Once the blend is completed, Brewmaster Matt Brynildson will hand select the best representative barrels, allowing members to “deconstruct” the blend and taste through the same beers the winemakers and brewers did on their way to creating XXV. Three of these will be only accessible to you as a member.
Shipping Late November
We are going all out for Black Friday once again, this time curating a collection of Barrelworks and Vintage creations that is designed to blow minds. Your palate will never be the same after experiencing this enlightening trio of beers. Includes special glassware.
Cocktail-Inspired Barrel-Aged Ale
In a noble feat, Barrel Program Manager Eric Ponce, got his hands on some nearly unattainable 18-year-old Sazerac Rye barrels, French Cognac barrels, and Absinthe barrels to mature this beer. The addition of lemon peel leaves this beer reflecting the dignified flavors of the classic Sazerac.
Fruited & Spiced Wild Ale
Barrelworks Master Blender is down in the cellar finalizing his vision for this beer. We will share details closer to your ship date, but we have heard rumors of fruits, spices and all things wild. Stay tuned!
Hybrid Ale with Blackberries
Matt and his team are curating the details of this beer. We will share more specifics closer to the ship date, but we’ve heard rumors of a collaborative blend between our Vintage and Barrelworks programs, pairing Parabola and wild blackberries.
BREWMASTER’S COLLECTIVE EXCLUSIVE
Cocktail-Inspired Barrel-Aged Ale
In a noble feat, Barrel Program Manager Eric Ponce, got his hands on some nearly unattainable 18-year-old Sazerac Rye barrels, French Cognac barrels, and Absinthe barrels to mature this beer. The addition of lemon peel leaves this beer reflecting the dignified flavors of the classic Sazerac.
Fruited & Spiced Wild Ale
Barrelworks Master Blender is down in the cellar finalizing his vision for this beer. We will share details closer to your ship date, but we have heard rumors of fruits, spices and all things wild. Stay tuned!
Hybrid Ale with Blackberries
Matt and his team are curating the details of this beer. We will share more specifics closer to the ship date, but we’ve heard rumors of a collaborative blend between our Vintage and Barrelworks programs, pairing Parabola and wild blackberries.
BREWMASTER’S COLLECTIVE EXCLUSIVE
Master Blender
Jim “Sour Jim” Crooks is the originator and mastermind behind Barrelworks, which began as an illicit personal project before growing into a legitimate wild ale enterprise. Jim joined Firestone Walker in 2001 and acted as our quality control director before being turned loose to pursue all things wild. With a background in food science, Jim continually forages for unique ingredients in the pursuit of head-spinning flavors and balanced drinkability.
The Brewmaster
Matt Brynildson’s nickname says it all: “Merlin.” Renowned as one of the world’s leading brewmasters, Matt has worked his magic at Firestone Walker since 2001. He has been named “Champion Brewmaster” four times at the World Beer Cup and “Brewer of the Year” six times at the Great American Beer Festival. Matt established our Vintage spirits barrel program in 2006, helping spark the revolution in barrel-aged beers with Parabola, Anniversary Ale and other iconic creations.
Barrel Program Manager
Eric Ponce is a force in the world of barrel-aged beers. After cutting his teeth at several breweries here and abroad, he was recruited by Firestone Walker in 2017 and immediately took our Vintage program to the next level. Eric draws upon his Mexican heritage, his passion for food and his diverse brewing experience to bring extreme creativity to his barrel-aging recipes—from straight-up classics to exotic cocktail and culinary-inspired beers.
As a member of the Brewmaster’s Collective, you’ll receive eight shipments varying from 3-6 bottles shipped to your door throughout the year, along with curated glassware with each Collection, and an expert-led virtual tasting. Membership also grants you access to limited quantities of Library beers, the ability to purchase additional bottles of Brewmaster’s Collective exclusive beers, early access to beer releases, 15% off all beer and merchandise, and 10% off dining at our three Taprooms.
Full membership payment is due at the time of purchase. Due to legalities on the sales of alcohol, monthly financing is not available.
Brewmaster’s Collective membership will open for registration on Friday, February 12, 2021, at 10:00 a.m., and will close for the year when all spots are filled. Once memberships fill up, you can be added to the 2022 waiting list. This does not guarantee 2022 availability, but will give priority access on a first come, first served basis in the event of availability.
Our top priority is the health and safety of our fellow craft beer fans and our employees. Because of the Covid-19 pandemic, we are currently not hosting any events on site. In time, when we feel it is safe to do so, we have every intention (and some big ideas) to host Brewmaster’s Collective events.
The beer development process for scheduled beers are not finalized and subject to change. Many of the beers on the release calendar are placeholders, and beer specifics are not yet complete. Additional bottles of beers included in each Collection, including Brewmaster’s Collective exclusives, will be available for purchase for a limited window of time before and after each shipment. Select Library beers will also be available for purchase in very limited quantities, until sold out, and will be announced via email. Additional shipping charges will be charged, and additional beer will be shipped separately from the Collection.
Your Brewmaster’s Collective membership card must be presented alongside your valid ID to receive discounts at our Taproom and Brew Store locations. Your member discount of 15% on merchandise and beer to-go is valid online and at all three retail locations. Exclusions on certain items do apply, but are minimal. Please see associate for details. A dining discount of 10% is valid for membership holders, plus three guests. Discounts cannot be combined with any other offer.
Virtual tastings will take place Thursday evenings, the week following shipments. Details and access instructions will be sent to you via email, as well as included in your Collection shipment. Dates and times are subject to change. Virtual tastings will be led by Brewmaster Matt Brynildson and/or Master Blender Jim Crooks or Vintage Program Manager, Eric Ponce.
At this time we’re only able to ship to addresses within California. In the future, we hope to be able to open up membership to additional states.
We do not allow refunds on memberships or returns on beer. If your shipment arrives damaged, please email us at BrewmastersReserve@FirestoneBeer.com and we’ll be sure to get you a replacement.
Email us at BrewmastersReserve@FirestoneBeer.com with any other questions.