CooperSmith's Pub & Brewing Announces Head Brewer Retirement After 30 Years
CooperSmith's Pub & Brewing in Fort Collins announced significant changes to its brewing leadership as longtime Head Brewer Chris McCombs retires after 30 years with the establishment. Jared Lydon, who brings 15 years of industry experience, will assume the head brewer position.
McCombs led brewing operations at Fort Collins' oldest continuously operating brewpub for decades. The brewery has produced more than 150 different beer recipes during its three decades of operation and consistently offers 15 to 20 house beers on tap.
Lydon has been working alongside McCombs during a transition period to prepare for the leadership change. The brewery's ownership expressed confidence in Lydon's ability to lead brewing operations moving forward.
CooperSmith's, located in Old Town Square, played a pivotal role in establishing Fort Collins as a craft beer destination. The brewpub opened when Colorado changed its laws to allow on-premise beer production and retail sale in the same establishment.
The brewery has received national recognition throughout its history, including a gold medal at the Great American Beer Festival. It ranks among the top 20 beer-producing pubs in the United States.
In addition to the brewing leadership transition, CooperSmith's announced progress on adding pool tables to its establishment. The tables have arrived, though the project requires additional permits and construction work before completion. The brewery indicated it is working through city permitting processes, which typically involve building permits and potential liquor license modifications for entertainment amenities.
The brewpub will participate in Fort Collins' annual downtown holiday lighting ceremony on November 7 at Old Town Square. The lights are scheduled to illuminate at 6:30 p.m.
CooperSmith's continues to offer weekly food and drink specials, including Monday burger deals, trivia nights, and live music performances. The establishment occupies multiple buildings in Old Town Square and features two outdoor patios.
The brewery is owned by Dwight Hall, Sandy Longton, and Chris O'Mara, who purchased majority ownership from founder Scott Smith in 2014.