Background
Worthy Brewing owner Roger Worthington made appearance in the local beer scene in 2010 with his Portland-based Indie Hops company, which supplies hops to craft brewers and helps fund OSU’s hop breeding program. But before his life in beer, Worthington was a California attorney representing cancer victims of the asbestos industry. Worthy Brewing Company opened its doors in early 2013.
In 2017 Worthy installed several upgrades which was expected in increase daily production by 25%. Worthy hired John Glick as its new CEO in 2018. Glick has many years experience in the beer industry. Also in 2018 Worthy announced the launch of Taps & Tacos on NW Brooks Street in downtown Bend.
In Bend Worthy stands out with its recently added outdoor beer garden, banquet space and an open-air mezzanine bar, as well as a greenhouse and hop yard where they grow estate and experimental hops. Not to mention a three-story Hopservatory — with a spiral staircase winding around the outside to the top.
Experience
Worthy is a huge establishment on a hill near Pilot Butte. Good for sunset viewing and the beer deals that occur 30 minutes before and after sunset. The vibe was reminiscent of Firestone or New Belgium. One big difference is that Worthy has taken Hop options to the extreme. They have partnered with OSU to cultivate their own hops on site and have experiments going on to potentially create a new variety. The hops are growing right outside the door up to 20 feet tall! Our favorites on the flight were Easy Day Kolsch and the smoky tasting Zukowski, the special brew they had on tap. The flavor brought forth a hint of tangy Lebanon bologna! yum We bought a bottle of FarmOut Saison since they did not have any on tap. Enjoyed the IPA as well.
There is a Sleep Inn within walking distance to the brewery. Address is 600 N.E. Bellevue Drive , Bend, OR.
When in Bend you must also visit Crux Fermentation Project , Cascade Lakes Brewing and Bend Brewing Company !
