The specialty beer movement in the Pacific Northwest began in 1984 when Richard and Nancy Ponzi, a local winemaking family, teamed up with brewer Karl Ockert, graduate of the University of California at Davis’ Malting and Brewing Sciences program, to establish the 600-barrel Columbia River Brewery. Setting up shop in a three-story, century-old former rope factory in Portland’s industrial Northwest neighborhood, they founded what is better known today as BridgePort Brewing Company, Oregon’s Oldest Craft Brewery™, and a pioneer of the state’s craft brewing revolution.

Today, BridgePort Brewing Company is one of the top specialty brewers in the state of Oregon. BridgePort was acquired by Carlos Alvarez in 1995 and has experienced a number of expansions in response to its strong growth and increased market share. BridgePort’s most recent expansion in 2001 increased its capacity to 100,000 barrels per year, a far cry from its humble beginnings. Distribution has grown to 18 states, and the brewery’s emphasis on producing quality, innovative ales has provided it with an international following and numerous awards. Its highest accomplishment to date was winning the prestigious gold medal and world champion trophy for BridgePort IPA in the International Ales category at the 2000 Brewing Industry International Awards competition in London, which was followed in 2005 with another prestigious Gold Medal.

BridgePort has made its mark by evolving from a microbrewery to a regional leader in the craft brewing market. The brewery has looked on as the independent brewing industry it pioneered in Oregon has flourished, growing beyond anyone's expectations. But, despite growth and expansion, accolades and awards, BridgePort Brewing remains proudly independent and faithful to its commitment to producing high-quality, innovative craft ales that are true to their heritage.