AleSmith Turns 30 with Party Tricks, Espresso Martinis and Big Contract Volumes

AleSmith is celebrating its 30th anniversary with momentum behind new products – in and out of beer – and a growing contract brewing business. 

 

In this episode of the Brewbound Podcast, AleSmith president Brandon Richards shares how the San Diego craft brewery has evolved to meet drinkers' needs with new products while fortifying its business by brewing for others. 

 

Richards explains how the Party Tricks IPA line and addition of Sun Path fruited lager line have driven growth for the company. Party Tricks has helped "turn the business around" over the last two years, he says. 

 

In 2025, AleSmith expects to double its contract volume year-over-year with plans for more in 2026. The company is in the process of completing facility upgrades to enable spirits-based RTD production that will expand its consumer base as well as its own product mix.

 

AleSmith is expanding its flagship Speedway Stout brand for its first spirit-based offering with Speedway Espresso Martini, and the company is adding a second spirit-based ready-to-drink (RTD) line with Hoptails, which Richards believes is a first-to-market product as a hard hop water cocktail. 

 

Richards also gives insights into what AleSmith is looking for in a contract partner, what he believes the brewery offers its clients and how much volume the company has earmarked for co-packing in 2026. 

 

Before the interview, the Brewbound team breaks down the biggest industry headlines, including Charlie Sheen's non-alc beer, Molson Coors' new CEO, investors' lawsuit against Island Brands and Boston Beer's winning pick for The Summer I Turned Pretty.