Portland, OR – Upright Brewing, a cornerstone of the Oregon craft beer scene known for its innovative approach to farmhouse ales, lagers, and saisons, has announced it will cease production and close its main brewery and taproom at the end of 2025. The beloved brewery, which has been a fixture in Portland for sixteen years, will continue to pour its final batches until late December.
An Era Ends in Portland’s Beer Scene
Founded in 2009 by Alex Ganum, Upright Brewing quickly established itself as a distinctive voice in the rapidly evolving craft beer landscape. Operating from its unique space in the historic Leftbank Project building at 240 N Broadway, the brewery became synonymous with quality and creativity, earning accolades and a dedicated following. Upright’s influence is credited with helping to kickstart the modern farmhouse ale movement, re-popularize craft lagers, and contribute to the resurgence of cask beer.
In a statement shared on social media, founder Alex Ganum expressed that the decision was made after a significant period of reflection. “Upright has been a proud part of the Portland beer scene for over sixteen years, a time that has been a bit of a roller coaster with change in the industry and the world at large,” Ganum wrote. He further elaborated in interviews that the brewing industry is “isn’t as fun for us as it used to be,” and that the brewery has been facing financial pressures, leading to the difficult decision to close its doors.
The brewery’s production is slated to cease around Thanksgiving, with the taproom remaining open to serve patrons through the end of December. This period offers a final opportunity for customers to savor Upright’s signature brews and bid farewell to the production facility.
The Future of the Upright Beer Station
While the main brewery is closing, a beacon of continuity remains in the Upright Beer Station, located at NE 72nd and Prescott. This satellite location, which opened in 2023, will continue to operate and evolve. Ganum plans to transition the Beer Station into a taphouse that will feature a curated selection of beers from other breweries, aiming to maintain its role as a vital neighborhood gathering spot.
“Our satellite location, the Beer Station at NE 72nd and Prescott, will remain open and eventually transition to pouring beers from our favorite breweries,” read a statement from Upright. “It will continue for a long time as a welcoming neighborhood spot with thoughtfully served craft beer”. Ganum has expressed a desire to focus more on this “gas station” concept, investing his energy into making it an even better community hub. The Beer Station will continue to offer its current amenities, including food trucks and outdoor seating, promising a sustained presence for local patrons.
Accolades and Lasting Influence
Throughout its 16-year tenure, Upright Brewing garnered significant recognition within the craft beer community. The brewery earned a silver medal at the 2025 Oregon Beer Awards for its Amber Lager. Previously, it secured a gold medal at the 2024 Oregon Beer Awards for its Forest Flor mixed culture beer. Willamette Week also recognized Upright’s contribution to the local beer scene, naming its Engelberg Pilsner “Beer of the Year” in 2015. These awards underscore Upright’s consistent commitment to quality and innovation in an ever-competitive market.
Upright Brewing’s legacy extends beyond its awards; it lies in its distinct brewing philosophy and its impact on brewing trends in Oregon and beyond. The brewery’s dedication to unique styles and its foundational role in popularizing certain beer categories have inspired many within the industry.
As Upright Brewing prepares for its final months of operation, the Portland beer community reflects on its significant contributions. The closure marks the end of an era, but the continuation of the Upright Beer Station ensures that a piece of its spirit will endure as a beloved neighborhood fixture.
