Established 1996

With a background in electrical/mechanical engineering and job experience designing airplane power systems, Rich Weber, owner of the brewery, may seem ill-suited for the job of combining barley and hops to come up with a savory beer.  In fact, few skills would serve him better.  Ironically, this delicate business of steeping and fermenting is intensely mechanical.  The Weber’s had the foresight to hire a top brewer and a chemical engineer to come in and coach Rich for two years on his own machinery.  “The professional help was invaluable”, said Weber.  “They taught me every aspect of brewing from the water analysis to the bottling”.  Tenacity, strict adherence to the processes and formulas for making his beer, and commitment to keep his brew pure and never, ever cut corners, have added up to a recipe for success for this engineer turned micorbrewer.

In September of 2006, Sierra Blanca Brewing Company expanded its operation and relocated to Moriarty, New Mexico.  Rich recalls, “Our long-term business plan called for moving into a larger facility 10 years after start-up, so we’re on track with those projections”. 

In December of 2007, the brewery launched four new brands under the Rio Grande label.  Sierra Blanca Brewing Company purchased Rio Grande Brewing Company in 2007 and is very excited about the potential of these beers.  The response from our customers has been great and distribution throughout New Mexico is strong.

Stay tuned for the opening of our new brew pub – ABQ BREW Uptown Albuquerque late 2009.  This brew pub will feature all of our beers on draft and package, a great tapas menu and the perfect atmosphere to enjoy fine craft brews with your friends!

See you at the brewery! 

CHEERS!

Rich and Sue Weber