The beer scene here isn't slowing down any time soon, which is evident in the recent arrival of breweries like Declaration Brewing and Avery's upcoming move to a larger facility. And now, the spotlight is on Ratio Beerworks, a newcomer to the RiNo neighborhood that will open its doors this Saturday, February 14.
The trio behind the project includes master brewer Jason zumBrunnen, marketing and social media manager Zach Lowery—who also assists in brewing—and business, finance, and accounting partner Scott Kaplan. With a background in chemical engineering at CU, zumBrunnen went on to study brewing at the Siebel Institute in Chicago, as well as in Germany.
Housed in a space that includes a 1,500-square-foot taproom and 4,000-square-foot production facility equipped with a 20-barrel system, the goal at Ratio is both consistency and creativity for the beers. Five flagship brews anchor the lineup and will be offered year-round, including an Extra Pale Ale, Dark Scotch Ale, and a French-American Saison. Additionally, look for rotating seasonal and artisanal options. A one-barrel pilot system allows the brewers to test and tweak the recipes created by zumBrunnen and Lowery, and barrel aging and firkin programs will showcase more ambitious offerings.
Ratio's eclectic and colorful taproom can accommodate more than 80 people, supplemented by a standing area on the side patio. Over the spring and summer that space will be developed into a 4,000-square-foot side yard complete with landscaping, tables, and games—making it a rare outdoor hangout in the predominately industrial area. A food truck should also be onsite each day, starting with Saturday's grand opening at noon. The Pinche Taqueria & Tacos truck is kicking things off from noon to 5 p.m., with Basic Kneads Pizza taking over from 5 to 10 p.m.
The brewery's 20-barrel system can produce 30 to 40 kegs per batch, which will be distributed to bars and restaurants around Denver. The Populist nearby will be one of the first taps outside of the brewery, with several other restaurants to debut the beers soon. Lowery says they'd also like to do a canning line within the first year to be able to sell in liquor stores.
Ratio Beerworks is located at 2920 Larimer Street and will be open Tuesday through Thursday from 3 to 11 p.m., Friday and Saturday from noon to midnight, and Sunday from noon to 10 p.m.