Since coming on the scene in 2014, Pacific Islander Beer Co. has earned a solid following made up largely of East County residents who appreciate the family-run enterprise’s authentic conveyance of its Hawaiian heritage through beer. From day one, production of the latter has been the sole charge of one individual, Will Fox III, which makes the news that he is no longer with the business all the more surprising and significant.
Fox cited differences of opinion with company management as his reason for stepping down in mid-June. Prior to taking up head brewer duties for Pacific Islander, Fox learned the ropes of professional brewing at Oceanside brewpub Breakwater Brewing. Prior to that, he was a homebrewer, and numerous recipes from his amateur days were later recreated on Pacific Islander’s 10-barrel system.
Fox’s ownership stake in the business remains in place, but his future beyond Pacific Islander is uncertain at present. He is currently enjoying his first break in a half a decade, but is open to opportunities.
Back at Pacific Islander, owner Ku’uipo Lawler is utilizing the services of a brewing consultant who is getting Attitude Brewing expat Frank Amour Leon up-to-speed with his new environs.
In other news, the brewery will hold a two-day IPA party on September 6 and 7 revolving around a quartet of Pacific Islander India pale ales.