Rogue, known officially as Rogue Ales & Spirits, started as a craft brewery that was founded back in 1988. What began as a single brewpub in Ashland, Oregon overtime turned into a globally recognized brand, with six pubs across the state and a production facility that now serves as its world headquarters.
Rogue is known best for its bold flavors and its deep-rooted connection to the community. In this article, we’ll take you through its whole journey, from their award-winning brews and spirits to their history and consumption.
Rogue Brewery: An Introduction
Rogue Brewery is a pioneering craft brewery and distillery based in Oregon that was founded in 1988 by Jack Joyce and his partners. Unlike traditional breweries, Rogue has made a name for itself because of its experimental style of beers, spirits, and ciders. It pushes the boundaries of various flavor profiles without compromising on quality.
Rogue’s beer lineup is diverse. You have everything you need from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, all brewed with unique ingredients. These ingredients often include locally sourced hops, malts, and even ingredients like honey and spices.
Beyond beer, Rogue also produces renowned spirits, including gin, whiskey, and rum, made from ingredients grown on their own farms. These spirits are crafted with the same bold ethos as their beers and often feature unique botanical blends, custom barrels, and aging techniques.
This brewery can easily be considered a classic in the craft brewery scene but with a rather rebellious twist. The owners' dedication to the quality of each bottle stands as a testament to their ability to stand out in a crowded market with passion and vigor.
What Is the Alcohol Content of Rogue Brewery?
Rogue Brewery has a wide range of bottles under its name and each bottle has its own alcohol content.
The cans start from 5% ABV with Honey Kolsch and can go up to 6.5% ABV with the bold and complex Dead Guy Ale. The spirits start at 40% ABV with Dead Guy Whiskey and end at 67.5% ABV with Farmhouse Absinthe. All canned cocktails have a standard alcohol content of 7.5% ABV.
It's worth noting that the alcohol content might also vary when Rogue comes out with a special limited-edition bottle or a new version of an older drink.
What Is the History of Rogue Brewery?
Rogue Brewery’s history is intertwined with a fateful encounter between Jack Joyce and Mohava Niemi back in 1988.
It began as a single pub back in Ashland under the ownership of Jack Joyce, Bob Woodell, Rob Strasser, and Jeff Schultz. However, the brand’s evolution took a turn in the next year when Joyce was stranded in Newport due to an unusual snowstorm and he ran into Mo Niemi, the founder of Mo's Restaurants.
Mo extended her renowned hospitality and offered Joyce the vacant storefront and garage of her restaurant on two conditions. The first was that Rogue Brewery must “feed the fishermen” by giving back to the local community. The second was that a picture of Mo would hang over the bar for as long as the brewery is operational.
Joyce quickly agreed and soon Mo’s storefront became the main location for the brewery especially after the original Ashland pub had to close due to flooding.
Since then, Rogue has expanded its operations, establishing a larger production facility and diversifying into spirits in 2003, becoming one of America’s first independent craft distilleries. It also continues to give back to the fishermen of the community with its hefty donations.
Where Is Rogue Brewery From?
Rogue Brewery was founded in Ashland, Oregon. The brewery's early days were quickly interrupted when founder Jack Joyce struck a deal in Newport with local Mo Niemi. Soon after, Rogue relocated to Newport, where it established its prominent Bayfront Public House and expanded its operations.
Today, Rogue Brewery is headquartered in Newport, Oregon, where it operates its main production facility, the Rogue World Headquarters. The brewery has operations in several other locations, including pubs throughout Oregon and specialized facilities such as the Rogue Eastside Pilot Brewery and the Rogue Spirits Distillery.
Over the years, Rogue has grown from a singular pub in Ashland to a massive presence in the craft beverage industry. Its products are now available in all 50 states and more than 50 countries worldwide.
When Was Rogue Brewery Created?
Rogue Brewery was established in 1988 by Jack Joyce and his partners Bob Woodell, Rob Strasser, and Jeff Schultz. It shifted to Newport, Oregon in 1989 with the opening of the Rogue Bayfront Public House and the brewery’s continued growth in its new location.
What Types of Products Does Rogue Brewery Have?
Rogue Brewery’s beverages include several options, such as beer, spirits, canned cocktails, and a CBD collection. Here are all the different types of drinks you can find:
Rogue Brewery Ale Collection
Rogue Brewery's core ale collection offers distinctive styles like Dead Guy Ale’s rich malty aroma and hearty flavor and Honey Kolsch’s subtle floral notes and refreshing finish. This collection also hosts Dead Guy IPA, Dead Guy Pale Ale, Dead Guy Pilsner, Imperial IPA, Batsquatch IPA, Hazelnut Brown Ale, and Chocolate Stout Nitro.
The seasonal beer collection takes things a step further with rich chocolate-infused flavors like Double Chocolate Stout. They also offer whole chopped pumpkins as in Pumpkin Patch Ale, and vanilla accents like Dead ‘N’ Dead. Other seasonal features include Blackberry Honey Kolsch, Mom Beer, and Tamarind Pineapple Blonde Ale with Xicha Brewing.
VIEW PRODUCTS ON ROGUE BREWERY'S SITE
Rogue Brewery Morimoto Whiskey
Rogue Brewery's Morimoto Whiskey is pulled from selected barrels and highlight rich, deep flavors in honor of the Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto. Its flavor profile includes smoke, salt air, and strong malt notes.
Rogue Brewery Dead Guy Whiskey
Their Dead Guy whiskey is an award-winning single malt, pot-distilled whiskey that has been ocean aged, giving it a smooth, rich, distinctive taste.
Rogue Brewery Bayfront Vodka
Their Bayfront Vodka is distilled in small batches, and has a bright and clean flavor that works fantastically on its own or as the base for classic or innovative cocktails.
Rogue Brewery Cranberry Elderflower Vodka Soda
Looking for a tart and refreshing pre-made cocktail? This vodka soda is built around our Bayfront Vodka, with cranberry, elderflower, and lime add balance and a unique flavor profile.
Rogue Brewery Lemonade Iced Tea Vodka Soda
Rogue Spirits Bayfront Vodka is the base of this refreshing, summer-inspired pre-made cocktail. The addition of lemonade and iced tea craft a cocktail that can make you feel like it's a summer day any time of the year.
Rogue Brewery Lemon Whiskey Ginger Mule
This pre-made cocktail make sit easy to enjoy a refreshing drink anywhere. The base of the cocktail is their whiskey, and lemon and ginger balance that out by offering citrus and spice flavorings.
ROGUE BREWERY'S CBD COLLECTION
Last on the list, we have Rogue’s CBD collection, which offers a variety of refreshing seltzers and mixers. The seltzer options include unique flavors like Pineapple Guava, Blackberry Cucumber, Ginger Yuzu, Lavender Mint Lemonade, and Passion Fruit Blueberry. Each is designed to provide an exciting and flavorful experience.
The collection also features CBD-infused mixers such as Ginger Beer and Tonic Water, which are perfect for creating your own customized beverages.
VIEW PRODUCTS ON ROGUE BREWERY'S SITE
What Ingredients Are in Rogue Brewery’s Spirits?
Rogue Brewery uses a variety of ingredients to craft its beers and spirits. Key ingredients include:
- Malts: Rogue uses all sorts of malts, including pale, caramel, and roasted varieties, to add unique and interesting flavors to their brews.
- Hops: Rogue drinks also use various hop varieties for citrus, piney, earthy, and floral notes.
- Yeast: Most drinks use proprietary yeast strains, such as Pacman yeast, which create the unique fermentation characteristics and flavors that customers love.
- Water: The brewery uses high-quality water sourced from the pristine waters of the Pacific Northwest.
- Additional Ingredients: For specific beers and spirits, Rogue includes unique ingredients like fruit, spices, herbs, and even local honey.
How Much Do Rogue Brewery’s Products Usually Cost?
The price of a bottle from Rogue Brewery depends on your location and whether you choose a beer, spirit, canned cocktail, or CBD.
The beer collection has six-pack cans costing from $13.99 USD to $15.99 USD. The spirits can cost up to $84.99 USD, whereas the canned cocktails cost up to $21.99 USD.
Keep in mind that these prices will vary if you get your Rogue fix from a local bar or restaurant compared to online sources.
What Is the Best Way to Enjoy Rogue Brewery’s Drinks?
The best way to enjoy a Rogue drink is straight from the glass. Pour your favorite Rogue beer or spirit into a glass and take a moment to fully appreciate its various aromas and flavors. Check the can for the recommended serving temperature and chill it accordingly if needed so that you can have a better tasting experience.
You can also enjoy Rogue beers and spirits with food that complements their flavor profiles. For example, Dead Guy Ale pairs well with hearty, savory dishes like grilled meats or rich cheeses. On the other hand, a Batsquatch IPA’s tropical notes work wonders with spicy or citrusy dishes.
Lastly, you can use Rogue spirits as a base for making creative cocktails by yourself. For instance, use their whiskey as the base for a classic Old Fashioned. Don’t shy away from experimentation—different mixers and garnishes will highlight the unique qualities of the brewery’s spirits.
How to Choose a Good Rogue Brewery Drink
To choose a good Rogue Brewery drink, make sure you select a product that aligns with your taste preferences. If you prefer rich malty flavors, Double Chocolate Stout might be ideal. If you’re in the mood for something fruity, Dead ‘N’ Dead might be more to your taste.
Try sampling different styles and figure out what works for you. If you’re new to Rogue, start with their flagship beers to explore your different options. You can also check the reviews and awards that these drinks have received so that you can go for more highly regarded options.
If possible, you can also try visiting Rogue’s pubs or their flagship World Headquarters in Newport, Oregon. Experiencing their products on-site can help you better understand and sample the range they offer directly from the source. This can help you make a more informed purchase.
When choosing a good Rogue Brewery, keep in mind what sort of occasion you’re planning for. A refreshing IPA would work in a casual gathering, whereas a rich stout is best for a cozy evening. If you’re in the mood to have a relaxed social event, Rogue’s CBD seltzers are all you need to unwind.
Where Can You Find Rogue Brewery’s Products?
Rogue Brewery products are widely available across the United States and more than 25 countries globally. You can find these cans in major liquor stores, specialty beer shops, and bars.
Rogue also operates several pubs throughout Oregon, including their flagship Rogue World Headquarters in Newport, which offers an extensive selection of their beers and spirits.
If you’re seeking convenience, you can purchase Rogue's products from Speakeasy Co or the brewery’s own website.
Rogue Brewery FAQs
Are Rogue Brewery products available worldwide?
Yes, you can purchase Rogue Brewery products at major liquor stores, specialty beer shops, and various bars in more than 25 countries. The list of international shipping locations is available on the company’s website.
Are there seasonal Rogue Brewery releases?
Yes, there is a section for seasonal releases for both beers and canned cocktails on the brewery’s site.
Can I visit Rogue Brewery’s pubs in Oregon?
Yes, Rogue Brewery operates several pubs throughout Oregon that you can visit. This includes their flagship Rogue World Headquarters in Newport, as well as locations in Portland and other cities.
Is Rogue Brewery based in Ashland or Newport?
Rogue Brewery was originally founded in Ashland, Oregon, but it relocated to Newport, Oregon where it is currently operating from at the moment.
Does Rogue Brewery have any merch and accessories?
Yes, you can find Rogue hats, hoodies, and t-shirts on their official website.
Discover Something Fresh With Rogue Brewery
In this article, we’ve explored the journey of this classic brewery, from its start in 1988 to today. We looked at its special history and talked about the drinks they offer. We also looked at various frequently asked questions and how you can best enjoy these products.
With all this information at hand, give Rogue drinks a try and see if they’re the perfect match for you! If you're not sure which spirit to sample first, we recommend starting off with their Dead Guy Whiskey.
