Deadfall Brewing Company is an intimate and inclusive craft brewery operating on the traditional, unceded territories of the Lheidli T’enneh people, in what is also known as Prince George, B.C.
Sales and marketing manager Ivan Eytzen says the brewery’s focus is on sustainably producing hand-crafted beer in small batches with an emphasis on quality over quantity. The brewery is owned by Brandon Baerwald, his wife Erin and a group of friends.
Eytzen notes, a long-time coming, Deadfall was forged in friendship over many years of daydreaming fuelled by “delicious food and beer, ridiculous laughter and deep conversation, including a lot of geeky debate over beer styles and trends (for example, New England vs. West Coast IPAs, a discussion which is still ongoing!)”
“We aim to create classic yet remarkable beers alongside interesting and creative beers that you can include in your memorable moments,” says Eytzen.
As part of The Growler’s ongoing “Five Questions With…” series, Eytzen offered some insight into what’s behind Deadfall Brewing Company.
What’s the inspiration behind the name?
We were looking for a nerdy, “sciencey” name because we’re all biologists and/or doctors. And we wanted it to be forest related, since we’re located in Prince George.
“Deadfall” was suggested and, after dismissing the thought that it was too noir, we ran with it! It really nails the forestry-related theme and reflects the idea that life comes from death — when a tree falls over and decomposes it offers many nutrients that new life springs from.
It’s also very fitting given that our little brewery is located in a strip mall in a bay with no windows, so when walking in it’s like flipping over a log and finding it teeming with life underneath.
How did Deadfall Brewing come to be?
This is where our story honestly isn’t all that unique. It’s the classic tale of a bunch of close-knit friends who love eating and drinking together, who dream of, and eventually build a brewery. Since the mid-2000s, most of our fancy home-made dinner parties have been fuelled (perhaps too much) by Brandon’s tasty brews and now we have a place that we can share our love of great beer with others.
Aside from the beer, the art and ambiance are what we’re most proud of. We wanted a safe space that was welcoming to everyone. With the “lush industrial” design theme, amazing and intriguing artwork and chill vibe, we feel like we’ve created a neat, beautiful little space where everyone feels at home.
How and why is Deadfall Brewing a part of your local community?
Being a new startup hasn’t stopped us from jumping in and being a part of the community. Aside from providing a space for everyone to meet up and enjoy some beers, we try to take part in as many charitable and community events as we’re able. From charity beer festivals to special brews with proceeds benefitting local charities, including Deadfall’s Belgian Dark Strong Ale in support of the Prince George Firefighters Charitable Society. We were also part of the first collaboration between Prince George’s three craft breweries, Deadfall, Trench Brewing and Distilling, and CrossRoads Brewing.
We also offer our space free of charge to local artists, including musicians and improv groups, and for classes, including yoga, in an effort to promote local talent.
What five words would you use to describe Deadfall Brewing?
Inclusive. Welcoming. Intimate. Solid. Dependable.
