Old-timey navigation tool inspired the company’s direction and name

By the Thirst Team

An Alidade is a navigation device that dates back centuries, but is still in use today. In its simplest form, it involves a ruler and telescopic sight for determining precise directions. Though rarely used today, the US Navy still has some Alidades on vessels.

The word is also on a new brewery in Castle Rock, with good reason.

“It’s a symbol of intention, clarity, and movement forward,” said Alidade Brewing co-owner Bo Bontrager. “For us, it reflects how we want to operate, whether we’re brewing, building community or helping someone discover a new favorite beer.”

Alidade opened this summer in the former Burly Brewing space across the highway from the town’s namesake Castle Rock. Bontrager opened the brewery with Evan Chamberlain and head brewer Derek Waner.

Chamberlain and Waner are industry veterans who met in San Diego many years ago at the renowned Green Flash Brewing.

“(Waner) has worked in some of the country’s most respected breweries, overseeing everything from system buildouts and recipe development to contract production and team leadership,” Bontrager said. “Derek’s range and technical depth make him an ideal fit for a brewery like ours, which values both quality and versatility.”

Bontrager added that Chamberlain also has experience with non-alcoholic and ready-to-drink packaged cocktails, two of the fastest growing libations categories.

Unlike some breweries that start with a small lineup of specialty beers, Alidade already is serving a passionfruit sour and a black lager alongside a kolsch, a Belgian wit and various IPAs. The brewery also offers wine, cider and house-made batch cocktails. Down the road, they hope to produce and can their own cider and cocktails.

Bontrager said the diversity of products will help Alidade thrive despite a downturn in the brewing industry.

“We understand the challenges in the current market, but we also see a strong demand for well-run, community-focused spaces that serve a diverse range of beverages,” he said.

Alidade is open daily in Castle Rock. The team also will pour their beers at Castle Rock Oktoberfest tomorrow and the Great American Beer Festival next month.