In the ageless folds of the Oregon coast, where the misty veil of the Pacific meets the rugged shores, lies a humble town nestled between rock and pines. Amidst bustling cities and quaint hamlets Astoria emerges, a town that echoes a history as old and ancient as the towering trees that surround it.
The building in which Obelisk now lives used to be the old Blitz-Weinhard distributor building in Astoria, OR
Obelisk Beer Co
The beautiful and creative minds behind Obelisk Beer Co, Nathan Lampson (left) and Dave Coyne (right)
Entering the taproom of Obelisk Beer Co feels like stepping into a rustic haven where time slows down and every detail is crafted with care. The old wood floor, well taken care of and weathered by time, welcomes you with its warm hues, while the soft sunlight dances through the windows, casting ethereal patterns on the varnished surface. The marine turquoise cooler stands as a beacon of refreshment, its glass windows bleeding small drops of condensation, offering a glimpse of the contents held within—rows of meticulously arranged canned beer, snacks, and treats for both young and old.
Approaching the bar, fashioned from reclaimed wood, your gaze is drawn to the gleaming white tile backdrop, a canvas for the intricate gold and black taps that punctuate the space like works of art. The dark evergreen walls embrace you, their comforting hue reminiscent of lush forests, while shelves adorned with gleaming glassware and verdant plants add a touch of serenity to the bustling ambiance, capturing and replicating just a portion of the beauty that is the Oregon Coastline.
As pints are poured, the pale gold liquid releases enticing aromas, invoking memories that help track down and confirm the flavors you’re experiencing. Amidst the polished steel brewhouse, conversations flow like a gentle current, weaving tales of laughter, camaraderie, and shared passion. The whole experience and ambiance are natural and effortlessly calculated, guided by the unwavering dedication and creativity of Dave and Nathan.
In this sanctuary of brewing, Obelisk Beer Co. stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of innovation and exploration. Here, tradition meets innovation, and every pint tells a story of craftsmanship and ingenuity. It's a place where time stands still, and every moment is infused with the magic of possibility—a true oasis for beer lovers and dreamers alike.
“By cultivating personal relationships with these purveyors of quality ingredients, the brewery gains a newfound appreciation for the origins of their raw materials, infusing each batch with a sense of place and a story to tell.”
Kathleen fills a glass with Sunshrine, an ale inspired by the classic Kolsch style, drawn from the tap adorned with a distinctive red handle dedicated to Kolsch offerings
At the heart of Obelisk's brewing philosophy lies a deep commitment to craftsmanship, where the focus extends beyond mere execution to encompass a profound reverence for the process and the ingredients that breathe life into their beers. In an era marked by the renaissance of craft beer, a cornucopia of artisanal ingredients has flooded the market, ranging from heirloom grains and specialty yeast strains to luscious fruits and aromatic hops.
The symbiotic relationship between farms and beer dates back to the dawn of civilization, intertwining the agricultural roots of brewing with the fertile soils that nurture our crops. As society progresses and farming practices evolve, it's all too easy to overlook the invaluable contribution of local farms to our communities. Yet, in the world of craft beer, these ties remain steadfast, with small-scale farmers and producers playing an integral role in shaping the flavor profiles and character of each brew.
At Obelisk, this connection with local farms is not just a matter of convenience; it's a fundamental aspect of their identity. By cultivating personal relationships with these purveyors of quality ingredients, the brewery gains a newfound appreciation for the origins of their raw materials, infusing each batch with a sense of place and a story to tell. This intimate understanding lends a unique perspective to the beers they craft, elevating them from just another beer to expressions of artistry and terroir.
In embracing this ethos, Obelisk not only honors the rich tapestry of agricultural traditions but also fosters a deeper sense of community and stewardship. With every pint poured, they pay homage to the hardworking farmers who labor tirelessly to bring their vision to life, reminding us all of the interconnectedness of the food we eat and the beer we drink.
In my view, given the resources, every brewer would eagerly opt to procure their ingredients from local farms and craft maltsters situated close to their brewery. Dave and Nathan’s extensive experience spans interactions with both large-scale corporations and small-scale, community-oriented farms and maltsters. In our conversation, Dave sheds light on the nuanced advantages and challenges associated with each, emphasizing the delicate balance he's strived to achieve over the years.
From ensuring the consistency of kilning processes to navigating the impact of disease, pests, and prolonged summer temperatures on hop crops, the challenges faced by brewers, regardless of scale, are parallel. However, how these challenges manifest differs significantly between large corporations and small-scale operations. Dave and Nathan’s passion for this craft is palpable as they discuss the intricacies of ingredient selection; to them, these choices are not merely pragmatic solutions but thoughtful decisions made with an intent that resonates through every sip of beer.
With Obelisk, there's a profound desire to impart this understanding to others—a recognition that the ingredients used in brewing are not just arbitrary components but integral threads in a rich tapestry connecting brewers, farmers, maltsters, and consumers. By emphasizing this interconnectedness, Obelisk seeks to educate and inspire, inviting beer enthusiasts to appreciate the depth of flavor and the stories woven into each pint.
“By emphasizing this interconnectedness, Obelisk seeks to educate and inspire, inviting beer enthusiasts to appreciate the depth of flavor and the stories woven into each pint.”
As we finish our pints they’re swiftly replaced by fresh ones, a delicate table Saison graces our palates, evoking images of freshly mown grass, zesty lemon peel, and subtle herbal nuances. Amidst the backdrop of the Pacific Northwest, renowned for its hop-forward brews, we discuss the realm of sessionable beers brimming with aroma and flavor. While the region boasts an abundance of bold, hop-laden brews bursting with citrus, tangerine, and pine resin, there exists a devoted following for beers that, despite their lower alcohol content, offer layers of complexity and taste, beckoning the current drinker to linger and explore the myriad of flavors.
With intent I concentrate and focus on the brew before me, I discern the gentle crackery/nutty undertones of malt, the faint aroma of green pear from yeast esters, and the exquisite aroma of freshly cut grass and lemon zest bestowed by the Czech-Saaz and Wai-iti hops. Such beers compel one to slow down and savor the moment, encouraging a holistic appreciation of life and its surroundings, rather than succumbing to the distractions of modern technology.
Obelisk's tap list is thoughtfully curated, striking a harmonious balance between lower and higher alcohol by volume (ABV) offerings, catering to a diverse spectrum of beer enthusiasts. So if you find yourself with nothing to do on a hot summer day, consider making a journey to Astoria to connect with the delightful folks at Obelisk Beer Co. Whether seeking a light, refreshing drink for easy enjoyment or a robust brew for conversation and contemplative sipping, you’re bound to find something lovely at Obelisk.
All images showcased in this article have been employed with explicit permission from Obelisk Beer Co. who retain the copyrights for these images.