USA, WA: Penn Cove Brewing Company announces abrupt closure

It’s the end of an era for artisanal brewing in Central Whidbey, the South Whidbey Record reported on January 26.

Penn Cove Brewing Company abruptly announced this week that it was closing doors at its two locations on Whidbey Island and one in Lake Stevens. A year ago, the company also closed its Oak Harbor location.

The closures was announced on social media.

“After much consideration and a thorough evaluation of our financial situation, we have had to make the difficult decision to cease operations,” Penn Cove CEO Marc Aparicio wrote. “The decision was not made lightly, and we want to express our deepest apologies for any inconvenience or disappointment this may cause you.”

Aparicio and his brother Mitch started the Penn Cove Brewing Company in 2015, opening its flagship taproom in Coupeville in 2016. Following the success of the venture, the brothers opened the three additional taprooms.

The company originally worked with another small brewery to brew the different beers and ales off the island, but later built a state-of-the-art facility in Coupeville. The company was known for infusing the brews with local flavor, using pumpkins from Sherman farm and even mussels from Penn Cove.

“We understand that Penn Cove Brewing Co. has been more than just a place to enjoy great beer; it has been a gathering space, a community hub and a shared experience for all of us,” Aparicio wrote.

The company also brewed up some controversy. Neighbors of the large taproom in Freeland complained about the noise over the summer. The brewing company is in the middle of litigation with Scurvy Dog Brewing over whether the Aparicios had promised the head brewer job to a consultant.

In the post, Aparicio wrote that the company is “committed to providing support and information during this transition.”