In February, Vista-based Prohibition Brewing opened its first off-site tasting room, taking over the former home of Fallbrook Brewing in that business’ namesake inland North County community. It was an expansion that arrived under the radar for most. So, too, is the company’s next tasting room, which is preparing to open in Escondido. Located at 201 East Grand Avenue, it will breathe new life into the former home of Vinz, a wine bar that closed at the beginning of this year. Also nearing its debut is Beverage House, a combo beer and coffee spot a block up the street. Located at 239 East Valley Parkway, it’s a venture from Seven Beverages Inc., which also includes Santa Ana-based Cismontane Brewing and Batch Plant Distilling.
Last month, Coronado Brewing Company veteran Brandon Richards was welcomed to the team at AleSmith Brewing. He now serves as the Miramar brewery’s new president. His previous experience includes six-plus years at Coronado Brewing, where he most recently served as CEO after years in high-level positions dealing with operations, sales and marketing. At AleSmith, he will work in close concert with co-owner Peter Zien, who will remain CEO. Meanwhile, co-owner and former COO Vicky Zien has transitioned to the role of chief culture and community advocate.
Barrio Logan’s Attitude Brewing has brought on a new brewer. After a year spent with Miramar-based Duck Foot Brewing, Davey Landers is now working as head brewer at the Barrio Logan brewpub. Presently, he is helping catch up on the production schedule. Once that is complete, he hopes to help make Attitude’s beers as friendly as possible from a food-pairing perspective.