Boulevard Brewing Company, founded in 1989 in Kansas City, Missouri, has become a staple of the American craft beer movement. Known for beers like Tank 7 and Unfiltered Wheat, Boulevard combines innovation, tradition, and a commitment to quality. Over three decades, it has grown from a modest local brewery into one of the Midwest’s most celebrated beer producers. Here’s how it all began and why Boulevard remains a beloved name in craft brewing.
The Beginning: A Dream on Southwest Boulevard
The story starts with John McDonald, a Kansas City native and art school graduate who fell in love with beer during his travels in Europe. Inspired by the rich brewing cultures of Belgium and Germany, McDonald envisioned bringing flavorful, handcrafted beers to a U.S. market dominated by light lagers.
In 1988, McDonald purchased a historic brick building on Kansas City’s Southwest Boulevard (a former laundry from the late 19th century) and began transforming it into a brewery. Using second-hand equipment, including a vintage brew house from Bavaria, McDonald’s vision started to take shape. By the end of 1989, Boulevard Brewing Company was officially up and running.
The First Beer: Boulevard Pale Ale
Boulevard debuted with its Pale Ale in November 1989, a beer that stood out for its bold flavor and balance of malt and hops. At a time when American beer drinkers weren’t as familiar with craft styles, Pale Ale quickly gained local fans and helped establish Boulevard’s reputation for quality.
In 1990, the brewery introduced Unfiltered Wheat Beer, a cloudy, citrusy wheat ale inspired by German hefeweizens. It resonated with a broad audience, becoming Boulevard’s best-selling beer and a major factor in its early success.
Building Momentum
Through the 1990s, Boulevard focused on expanding its range and reaching more beer lovers. Offerings like Bully! Porter and Dry Stout showcased the brewery’s ability to craft rich, flavorful beers across different styles. By the end of the decade, Boulevard’s reach extended throughout Missouri and Kansas.
To meet increasing demand, the brewery invested in new facilities. In 2006, Boulevard opened a state of the art brew house, significantly increasing production capacity and allowing for more experimentation with new recipes.
The Smokestack Series: Pushing Boundaries
In 2007, Boulevard launched its Smokestack Series, a lineup of creative, bold beers designed for craft enthusiasts. Named after the brewery’s iconic smokestack, the series included innovative styles that showcased Boulevard’s creativity.
Tank 7 Farmhouse Ale was a standout from the series. With its blend of fruity, peppery, and hoppy flavors, this saison quickly became one of Boulevard’s flagship beers. Other Smokestack favorites included:
- The Sixth Glass, a Belgian-style quadrupel rich in caramel and dark fruit.
- Bourbon Barrel Quad (BBQ), a barrel-aged variation of The Sixth Glass with vanilla and oak notes.
- Love Child Series, featuring funky, barrel-aged sour ales.
A New Era: Joining Duvel Moortgat
In 2013, Boulevard partnered with Belgian brewing company Duvel Moortgat. This move expanded Boulevard’s distribution across the U.S. and internationally, while ensuring the brewery maintained its commitment to craft and innovation. Duvel’s resources allowed Boulevard to grow while keeping its identity intact.
Under this partnership, Boulevard introduced new beers, enhanced sustainability efforts, and invested in its Kansas City facilities.
Sustainability and Community Impact
Boulevard’s commitment goes beyond brewing. The company is dedicated to environmental sustainability, using renewable energy and water saving practices in its operations.
Boulevard is also deeply involved in the Kansas City community, hosting events like the annual Boulevardia festival, which celebrates beer, music, food, and local culture. The brewery supports numerous local charities and organizations, further cementing its role as a community partner.
Boulevard Today: A Midwest Icon
Today, Boulevard Brewing Company is a leader in the craft beer world, producing over 200,000 barrels annually. Its portfolio includes everything from classic brews like Unfiltered Wheat to experimental beers and seasonal offerings. Whether it’s a crisp Boulevard Pilsner or a juicy Space Camper Cosmic IPA, Boulevard’s lineup has something for everyone.
Despite its growth, Boulevard remains grounded in its Kansas City roots. The brewery’s tours and taproom are favorite destinations for locals and visitors alike, offering a glimpse into the heart of this iconic brand.
The Legacy of Boulevard Brewing
Boulevard Brewing Company’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and creativity. From its humble beginnings on Southwest Boulevard to its status as a national craft beer powerhouse, the brewery has stayed true to its mission: crafting great beer that brings people together.
Whether you’re enjoying a classic like Tank 7 or trying a limited-edition release, every Boulevard beer is a testament to the art and science of brewing…and to the community that helped make it all possible.
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