Vinnie and Natalie Cilurzo, owners of the renowned Russian River Brewery wanted to create a new production facility and restaurant in Windsor, California that could be a destination for beer lovers to enjoy and learn about their creations. By blending the industrial elements of a production brewery with a softer farmhouse feel, we were able to connect functionality with hospitality and create a unique and inviting experience for their patrons. The new facility opened doors to the public in October 2018 with guided and self-guided tours starting shortly after. The tours offer a topflight experience of the brewery, giving an overview of the brewing process. The highly anticipated Windsor facility provided much relief to the downtown Santa Rosa brewpub during the limited release of the coveted Pliny the Younger available only during the first two weeks of February. This facility offers visitors a unique experience to learn about the beer brewing process.
As guests enter the property, they’re greeted by the four stainless steel tanks that make up the backbone of the brewing process. Here water, malt, yeast and hops come together to form the foundation of all beer. From there the strategic positioning of the rooms simplifies the transition to brewhouse, fermentation, and beyond to be enjoyed by beer lovers onsite and the world over.
On the west end is the hospitality center, where guests enjoy a 175-seat restaurant and bar, with outdoor lawn, tasting room and gift shop that serves as the entry point for the guided and self-guided tours of the brewery. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, inviting guests to savor their beer while gaining a greater admiration for the process.
At the east end of the building is the Funky Brewery, with its koelschip, an open top fermenter that enables the brewing of Russian River’s famous sour beers. The pride and joy of co-founder and brewmaster Vinnie, the koelschip uses the yeast and natural bacteria from the air to begin the fermentation process, just like the Belgian abbey monks did hundreds of years ago. Providing a truly unique and inviting experience that can attract and delight more than just beer lovers.
Guests are invited to hang out in the large outdoor beer garden. The family-friendly beer garden is a great place to hang out with kids and well-behaved dogs. Make sure to grab your beers in a stainless steel mug before going out to the patio and enjoying the sun and views.
The brewery facility was designed with careful attention to usability of the space. Careful layout of process piping and floor drains are integral parts of designing an effective brew deck.
Client: Russian River Brewing Company
Location: Windsor, CA
Type: Manufacturing