Fraser River Beer - Drink Beer, Pet Dogs!
Nestled in the heart of the Rockies, where the air is crisp and the scenery is as bold as the beer, Fraser River Beer Co. is more than just a brewery—it’s a dream brought to life by Angie and Brian Nichols. Built on a foundation of great beer, strong community ties, and a deep love for Fraser, CO, this cozy yet vibrant taproom has become a must-visit spot for locals and travelers alike. Since opening their doors in 2019, the Nichols duo has curated an experience that goes beyond the pint glass. Brian, the mastermind behind the craft brews, ensures the taps flow with house favorites and innovative seasonal rotations, while Angie brings her own flair, brewing fresh kombucha and homemade root beer for those seeking non-alcoholic delights. Their brewery is an extension of that journey—crafted with care, poured with passion, and served with a side of community spirit. Whether you’re a craft beer aficionado, a hard seltzer convert, or just someone in search of a cozy taproom with a great vibe, Fraser River Beer Co. welcomes you. Join Delivery Rank and read more.
Fraser River Beer Co. was born out of a dream and a love for family and beer. Can you tell us about the moment you decided to turn that dream into reality?
When Brian and I met in 2002, he was already experimenting with home brewing, crafting some truly amazing beers with a friend. At the time, we both had demanding corporate jobs and lived on the Front Range of Colorado. But early in our relationship, during one of our first dates, we discovered a shared love for the mountains. We dreamed of one day retiring there and building our own home.
That was also the first time I heard Brian talk about the brewery. His vision was clear—it would be the ultimate gathering place for locals, a spot where the community could come together, share stories, and enjoy great beer in a welcoming atmosphere.
Life took some unexpected turns, and in 2014, we found ourselves able to move to Fraser full-time. Brian took a year off to make our long-standing dream a reality—he built the house we had always envisioned nestled in the mountains. Once that goal was accomplished, he turned his focus to bringing the brewery to life.
In January 2019, we secured a building, and on May 9th of that same year, our dream officially became a reality when we opened our doors. Today, our brewery remains a family-owned and operated business, deeply rooted in the community we love. What started as a conversation over a date night has now become a thriving hub where friends, neighbors, and visitors can come together to enjoy great beer, good company, and a true sense of belonging.
Your brewery is nestled in the heart of the Rockies. How does the stunning mountain setting inspire the beer, kombucha, and root beer you create?
The mountains have a unique magic—both invigorating and peaceful at the same time. Our inspiration comes not only from their breathtaking beauty but also from the energy our patrons bring after a day of adventure.
Many who visit our brewery do so after an exhilarating day of skiing, snowboarding, biking, hiking, or any of the countless outdoor activities the mountains offer. After burning calories and pushing their limits, they come to unwind, share stories, and enjoy a well-earned, refreshing beverage.
We take pride in providing a fun and welcoming space where adventurers can kick back, relax, and soak in the mountain vibes. Whether you're coming off the slopes or the trails, our brewery is the perfect spot to end a perfect day.
What does being a "quaint local brewery" mean to you, and how do you create a welcoming space for both locals and visitors passing through?
We are a quaint, local brewery with a fun, eclectic, and cozy atmosphere. Every inch of our space is thoughtfully designed to make you feel at home—from our inviting "living room" and wraparound bar to the scenic back patio with breathtaking mountain views.
We keep things casual, offering a place where you can play games, work, read, or simply unwind. And if you’re a dog lover, you’ll feel right at home—on some days, we have more furry friends than people!
Our brewery is a gathering place where locals always feel welcome, and visitors often walk in and say, "What a great place you have here!" Whether you're a regular or just passing through, we invite you to relax, enjoy, and make yourself at home.
Your rotating seasonal beers bring variety to your tap list. Can you share one seasonal beer that’s particularly close to your heart and the story behind it?
Lucy the Great is more than just an imperial stout—it’s a bold, full-bodied brew with a flavor as grand as its namesake. This rich and powerful stout is named in honor of our late Great Dane, Lucy, who was as majestic and unforgettable as the beer itself.
Just like Lucy, this stout leaves a lasting impression—strong, smooth, and full of character. Raise a glass to Lucy the Great and celebrate the legacy of a beloved companion, one sip at a time.
Looking back since opening day, what has been the most rewarding moment for you both as co-owners and creators?
For us, it’s all about giving back. Whether we’re sponsoring local events, pouring beers at Picnic in the Park, or rallying support to raise funds for neighbors affected by a devastating fire, we take pride in being part of this incredible community.
The camaraderie in the valley is something truly special, and we’re grateful to contribute in any way we can. After all, a strong community is built on support, connection, and shared moments—something we’re honored to be a part of.
To read more about Fraser River Beer, please visit https://fraserriverbeerco.com/