CORNING — The Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians announced Wednesday that they had acquired the Mad River Brewery from the Yurok Tribe in Northwestern California.
Based in Blue Lake, California, Mad River Brewery has distinguished itself as a producer of premium craft beers, recognized for their quality and dedication to environmental stewardship.
In November 2021, The Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians opened The Paskenta Brewery and Distillery, becoming the first tribal-owned distillery in California. With the acquisition of Mad River Brewery, the Paskenta Tribe continues to build its economic portfolio.
Tribal Chairman Andrew Alejandre said acquiring Mad River Brewery is another milestone in Paskenta’s commitment to building an economically sustainable future for the ribe and serving as an economic growth driver.
“We have enjoyed great community response since opening Paskenta Brewery & Distillery,” Alejandre said. “Now, with the acquisition of Mad River Brewery, we are honored to extend our expertise in blending tribal identity and craft beer to the Northern California community and tribes across the nation. As we continue to innovate, we proudly lead the way in crafting beers and spirits within Indian Country.”
In 2019, Mad River Brewery became one of the first Tribal Breweries in the United States, making it a trailblazer in the craft beer industry. A women-led company formed the first partnership between a tribally owned brewery and a professional baseball team, making Mad River Brewery hand-crafted a staple at San Francisco Giants home games at Oracle Park. Mad River Brewery has won notable local, national, and international awards, including the Word Beer Cup and the Great American Beer Festival.
“It fills my heart to know the business will remain in tribal hands and continue supporting the tribal community,” Mad River Brewery CEO Linda Cooley said. I have no doubt Mad River Brewery will continue its growth with this Paskenta Partnership.”
