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California Wild Ales | San Diego | Distribution

Wild Ales are Loose on the Town

By cwa-blog

Cheers to California Wild Ales: Now Pouring All Over San Diego!

The buzz is real, San Diego! California Wild Ales is officially on tap all around town, and we couldn’t be more excited to share our beers with you. Our new sales team has been working hard to get our brews into your favorite watering holes, and it’s paying off—big time!

What’s On Tap?

We’re rolling out three of our flagship beers to kick things off:

🍻 Warzone IPA (7.2%) – Our bold West Coast IPA packs a punch with bright citrus notes and a clean, crisp finish.

🍻 3rd Block from the Sun (6.7%) – This Hazy IPA is a juicy, tropical escape in every glass.

🍻 Bike Lane Lager (5.4%) – Easy-drinking and refreshing, perfect for post-adventure pints or kicking back with friends.

Where to Find Us

We’re thrilled to be pouring at some legendary local spots, including:

  • O’Briens Pub
  • OB Noodlehouse & Bar 1502
  • Modern Times (Encinitas)
  • Bottlecraft (Oceanside & Liberty Station)
  • Dirty Birds OB
  • Pretzels & Pints
  • Rosemarie’s Buns & Brews
  • The Bowl
  • WE B OB
  • The Holding Company
  • Raglan
  • Wonderland

And that’s just the beginning! We’re spreading those good beer vibes to even more locations soon.

Meet the Dream Team

Behind every great beer is an even greater team. We’re lucky to have some serious pros on our side:

🍻 Brendan Morgan, a veteran of Modern Times, brings his expertise and passion to every pint.

🍻 Keith Bender, formerly of the late, great Resident Brewing, is ready to bring Wild Ales to your favorite spots.

🍻 Ian Hughes and Jess Villalon, fresh faces with fresh energy, are already making waves.

These folks aren’t just selling beer—they’re sharing our story, building relationships, and bringing the spirit of California Wild Ales to every tap handle they touch.

Spot the LEGO Tap Handles!

Speaking of tap handles, keep an eye out for our custom-made LEGO handles! Designed in-house with the help of our good friend Khorey over at Mortarless Bricks in Ocean Beach, they’re as fun and unique as the beers they pour. Snap a pic if you spot one, and tag us—we’d love to see it!

Help Us Spread the Wild Ale Love!

We’re always on the lookout for new places to pour our pints. Know of a spot that would be a perfect fit for California Wild Ales? Drop us a comment, send us a DM, or chat with our sales team if you see them around town. Your favorite bar could be our next stop!

Thanks for all the love and support, San Diego! We can’t wait to raise a glass with you. Cheers! 🍻

#CaliforniaWildAles #SanDiegoBeer #DrinkLocal

Cookies + Beer = ❤️

By cwa-blog

🍺 Valentine’s Day Beer & Cookie Pairing Event! 🍪❤️

Forget the cliché chocolates and wine—this Valentine’s Day, we’re pairing craft beer with  cookies! Whether you’re celebrating with your sweetheart, rolling deep with your crew, or just treating yourself (because you deserve it!), this event is for everyone who loves great beer and sweet treats.

Join us at California Wild Ales on Wednesday, February 14th for a one-of-a-kind Cookie & Beer Pairing event—and if you can’t make it, don’t worry! We’ll be offering this special pairing every Saturday & Sunday at both Wild Ales locations until we run out of cookies!


🍻 The Pairings: Beer Meets Cookies

🍪 Each pairing flight includes 5 cookies + 5 beer tasters for $22 🍻

Warzone (West Coast IPA) → Samosas 🥥🍫

The citrusy bitterness of Warzone IPA perfectly balances the rich caramel, chocolate, and coconut of Samosas. A bold, flavor-packed match!

3rd Block from the Sun (Hazy IPA) → Lemonades 🍋🍪

Bright, juicy tropical flavors in our hazy IPA bring out the citrusy sweetness of Lemonades. It’s a sunshine-filled sip with every bite.

Bike Lane Lager → Trefoils (Shortbread) 🏁🥠

Simple and classic. The crisp, clean finish of our lager enhances the buttery richness of Trefoils without overpowering it.

YEMS (Stout) → Thin Mints 🍃🍫

Deep roasted malt flavors in YEMS Stout intensify the chocolatey goodness of Thin Mints, while the minty finish keeps it refreshing. It’s like mint chocolate chip ice cream—but boozy.

Barrel-Aged Saison → Do-si-dos (Peanut Butter Sandwiches) 🥜🍯

Nutty, slightly sweet peanut butter meets the funky complexity of our barrel-aged saison for a surprisingly smooth and balanced pairing.

❤️ Not Just for Lovebirds—Everyone Deserves Something Sweet!

Whether you’re toasting with your Valentine, cheers-ing with your friends, or just here for the cookies, this event is for YOU.

📅 Date: Wednesday, February 14th (Valentine’s Day Kickoff!)
📍 Locations: Both California Wild Ales tasting rooms
Time: 6 PM – 10 PM on Valentine’s Day
🍪 Special: $22 Beer & Cookie Flights

🍻 Weekend Pairings:
📅 Every Saturday & Sunday until we run out of cookies!

Come enjoy a unique tasting experience while supplies last—because beer and cookies just make sense. 🍻🍪

Superbowl Watch Party | California Wild Ales

Superbowl Watch Party

By cwa-blog

Are You Ready for Some Football!

🏈 Super Bowl Watch Party 2025 at California Wild Ales! 🍻🔥

The biggest game of the year deserves an epic watch party, and we’ve got you covered! Join us at California Wild Ales in Midway/Point Loma on Sunday, February 9, 2025, for an unforgettable Super Bowl experience!

📍 Where: California Wild Ales – Midway/Point Loma

🕒 When: Sunday, February 9, 2025 – Kickoff at 3:30 PM

🎟 Price: $50 – All-You-Can-Drink & Eat (Limited to 50 people!)

📽️ 20-Foot Screen

We’re taking the stress out of planning your own party – all you have to do is show up, grab a beer, and enjoy the big game with a fantastic crowd! Whether you’re coming with friends or making new ones, this Super Bowl Watch Party is the place to be.


🍻 WHAT’S INCLUDED? 🍔

🍺 20 Beers on Tap

Enjoy an amazing selection of beers, including:
✔️ West Coast IPA
✔️ Hazy IPA
✔️ Lager
✔️ Pale Ale
✔️ Porter
✔️ Saison
✔️ Sours
✔️ Seltzers
✔️ N/A options available

🔥 Catered by OB’s Shawarma House!

We’re bringing in the legendary flavors of OB’s Shawarma House for a top-tier buffet, featuring:
🥙 Mouthwatering Shawarma
🍖 Savory Meats & Mediterranean Specialties
🥗 Fresh & Flavorful Sides
🌯 And much more!

Super Party – Super Fans!

🎟 EXCLUSIVE EVENT – LIMITED TO 50 GUESTS!

This Super Bowl party is capped at 50 guests, ensuring an intimate, fun, and comfortable game-day experience.

🏆 FREE SQUARES FOR PRIZES! 🏆
Every guest gets 2 free squares to win prizes based on the score after each quarter!

🎁 Prizes include:

  • CWA Merch & Gear
  • Gift Cards
  • More surprises!

🔥 Reserve Your Spot Now! 🔥

Don’t miss out – this event will sell out fast! Click the link below to reserve your ticket today!

👉 Reserve Your Ticket Now 👈

Let’s eat, drink, and cheer together at the best Super Bowl Watch Party in town! 🎊🏈

book your next event at California Wild Ales
Buckingham Ween | San Diego's Ween Cover Band | California Wild Ales

Ween Cover Band at Wild Ales

By cwa-blog

Buckingham Ween Returns to California Wild Ales – Don’t Miss It!

If you thought you missed out on San Diego’s most brown musical experience, think again—Buckingham Ween is back! After an unforgettable debut, San Diego’s premier Ween cover band is making their triumphant return to California Wild Ales in Point Loma on February 8th at 8 PM.

Who is Buckingham Ween?

For those unfamiliar, Ween is one of the most unique and beloved cult bands in alternative rock history. Their music spans just about every genre, from psychedelic rock to country, funk, and even sea shanties. Buckingham Ween captures that chaotic genius and delivers it live, bringing Ween’s eccentric energy straight to the stage.

If you missed their first show, you probably heard the buzz—a packed house, nonstop jams, and a night filled with Ween’s unmistakable weirdness. Whether you’re a hardcore Ween fan or just looking for a great night of live music and craft beer, this is a show you won’t want to miss.

The Perfect Pairing: Ween and Wild Ales

At California Wild Ales, we believe great music deserves great beer. That’s why we’re bringing Buckingham Ween back for another round of pure, unfiltered fun. While you’re rocking out, enjoy our selection of wild ales, lagers, hazy IPAs, and even our hard seltzer on tap.

 

Event Details:

📍 Location: California Wild Ales – Point Loma
📅 Date: February 8th
Time: 8:00 PM
💵 Cover: $5 at the door
🎟 Entry: 21+ only

See You There!

Whether you’re a dedicated Ween fan or just curious about what makes this band so legendary, Buckingham Ween is here to deliver a night of deep cuts, classic hits, and plenty of surprises. Mark your calendar, bring your friends, and get ready for an unforgettable evening at California Wild Ales.

🍻 Drink up. Get brown. See you on February 8th! 🎶

Buckingham Ween | San Diego's Ween Cover Band | California Wild Ales

Comedy Night at Wild Ales in Point Loma

By cwa-blog

Barrels of Laughs

Get ready, Point Loma! On Saturday, February 1, California Wild Ales is turning up the laughs and turning down the lights for an unforgettable Comedy Night, hosted by the one and only Matt Stanton. This night promises side-splitting stand-up comedy, great drinks, and good vibes—all nestled between two stacks of aging barrels in our cozy brewery.

Event Details:

  • Date: Saturday, February 1
  • Location: California Wild Ales, Point Loma
  • Happy Hour: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
  • Comedy Show Start: 7:30 PM
  • Tickets: Free Admission (but come early to snag a good seat!)

What to Expect:

A Lineup of Top-Notch Comedians
Hosted by Matt Stanton, this night will feature a handpicked lineup of standup comics who are ready to bring the house down. With a mix of seasoned pros and rising stars, the show will have you laughing so hard you might spill your beer (don’t worry, we’ve got plenty more on tap).

20 Beers on Tap
From our signature Warzone IPA to our seasonal sours, there’s a brew for every palate. Whether you’re a lager lover or a sour enthusiast, our taps are flowing with options. Pro tip: Arrive early for Happy Hour from 6-7 PM and enjoy discounted pints to get the night started right.

Tabletop Bar Games
Need a warm-up before the show? Challenge your friends to a quick game of tabletop shuffleboard or cards. It’s all about loosening up and getting in the mood for some serious laughter.

Barrels and Belly Laughs
Our unique venue sets the stage—literally!

The comedy show takes place between two towering stacks of barrels, giving the event an intimate, quirky vibe you won’t find anywhere else. It’s comedy with a touch of wild fermentation.

Coming Out of Dry January, Straight Into the Fun

If you’ve spent the last month hydrating and sipping mocktails, what better way to dive back into the scene than with a cold beer and some big laughs? Let’s be honest: You deserve this. We’re calling it rehydration with hops and humor. Consider it your reward for a job well done!

Don’t Miss Out!

Seats are first-come, first-served, and we’re expecting a full house. So, gather your crew, mark your calendars, and head to California Wild Ales on February 1. Whether you’re a comedy connoisseur or just looking for a fun night out, this is the event for you.

See you there—and don’t forget to bring your sense of humor. Cheers!

Sip and Shop

Shop Small all Holiday Season

By cwa-blog

Shop Small this Season

Keep OB Weird: Why Small Businesses Make Ocean Beach Special

Ocean Beach isn’t just a beach town—it’s a vibe. It’s a community fueled by the “little guys”: mom-and-pop shops, hand-run businesses, and scrappy entrepreneurs who pour their hearts (and probably way too much caffeine) into making this place what it is.

Today, we celebrate Small Business Saturday, but let’s be honest—every day should be Small Business Day. Without these local gems, Ocean Beach would just be… beach. Don’t get us wrong, the waves are cool, but would OB really be OB without the quirky shops, cozy cafes, and places that somehow make flip-flops acceptable in December? (Spoiler alert: No, it would not.)

Why Shopping Small Matters

When you shop at a small business in Ocean Beach, you’re not just buying a product or service—you’re investing in the community. Every dollar you spend goes directly to the amazing people who live and work here, from the bartender who knows your IPA preferences better than your friends do, to the barista who can predict your mood by your coffee order.

Unlike big corporations, small businesses in OB give back in real ways. They’re the ones sponsoring your kid’s soccer team, hosting local art shows, and throwing epic block parties that make your Instagram followers jealous.

The OB Difference

Small businesses don’t just keep Ocean Beach running—they give it character. Where else can you find:

  • A shop owner who will barter with you over a vintage surfboard while swapping stories about the ’80s?
  • A local brewery that brews beers as funky and vibrant as the community it serves?
  • A boutique that somehow always has the perfect t-shirt for both your weird uncle and your trendy cousin?

These places are more than businesses; they’re gathering spots, conversation starters, and the heartbeat of our quirky little town.

Keep it Local

How You Can Help

Whether you stop by California Wild Ales for a pint, grab breakfast from your favorite corner café, or pick up a gift from a local artisan, you’re making a difference. Your money doesn’t vanish into some corporate black hole—it stays right here, supporting the people who make OB the lively, unique, and slightly weird place we all love.

And hey, if you’re reading this in flip-flops and a hoodie, you’re already living the OB lifestyle. High five.

Shop Small, Stay Local, Keep OB Weird

Small businesses are the soul of Ocean Beach, and we need them as much as they need us. So, let’s celebrate them not just today, but every day. Support local, spread the love, and keep this town the vibrant, welcoming, slightly offbeat paradise it’s always been.

Now, go out there and shop small! And maybe grab a Michelada while you’re at it. We hear California Wild Ales has a killer one—spicy mix optional, charcuterie skewer highly recommended. Cheers!

Sip and Shop

Join us and let’s get funky in OB!

OB WIld West Coast IPA - California Wild Ales & OB Brewery

Introducing OB Wild – Collaboration Brew

By cwa-blog, event

OB Wild Collab Brew

Friends, Neighbors, & Beer

Ocean Beach isn’t just a neighborhood; it’s a way of life. From its eclectic shops and stunning sunsets to its thriving craft beer scene, OB is a community like no other. At the heart of this vibrant culture are two beloved breweries, California Wild Ales and OB Brewery, who have teamed up once again to create something truly special: OB Wild IPA.

This collaboration brings together the talent and creativity of Jim Milea, Head Brewer at OB Brewery, and Zack Brager, Head Brewer at California Wild Ales. Both brewers share a passion for pushing boundaries and delivering exceptional beer experiences. OB Wild IPA, brewed at OB Brewery, is a testament to their shared vision and the unique magic that happens when two local hotspots join forces.

The Brew: OB Wild IPA

OB Wild IPA is a Double Dry-Hopped West Coast IPA that perfectly captures the essence of Ocean Beach. It’s bold, refreshing, and packed with flavor, featuring a hop blend of El Dorado, Centennial, Huell Melon, and Columbus. This combination results in a vibrant profile of citrus, pine, and fruity notes that will tantalize your taste buds with every sip. At 7.2% ABV and 60 IBU, it strikes a perfect balance of strength and bitterness, making it as approachable as it is exciting.

Jim Milea describes brewing OB Wild IPA as “a true meeting of minds.” He notes how Zack’s expertise in experimenting with flavors and techniques from California Wild Ales brought an added layer of complexity to the beer. Meanwhile, Zack praises Jim’s attention to detail and mastery of the classic West Coast IPA style, saying, “This beer is everything we hoped it would be—a reflection of the friendship and creativity we share.”

Neighborhood Cheers

A Community United

OB Wild IPA isn’t just a beer; it’s a symbol of the Ocean Beach spirit. Collaborations like this one highlight the strong bonds within this tight-knit community. Jim and Zack, who have worked together on numerous projects before, see these partnerships as a way to not only elevate their craft but also celebrate the people and places that make OB so unique.

“This is just the beginning,” says Zack. “We’ve got so many exciting ideas for future collaborations, from barrel-aged sours to hop-forward experimental brews. The Ocean Beach community inspires us every day, and we can’t wait to share more with everyone.”

More to Come

OB Wild IPA is the latest in a growing series of collaborations between California Wild Ales and OB Brewery, and it’s clear there’s much more on the horizon. Both breweries are committed to supporting each other, growing the local beer scene, and creating exceptional beers that bring people together.

Next time you’re strolling through OB, stop by OB Brewery or California Wild Ales to grab a pint of OB Wild IPA. Raise your glass to Jim, Zack, and the incredible Ocean Beach community that makes collaborations like this possible. Cheers to the beers—and the friends—that bring us together! 🌊🍻


Stay tuned for updates on future releases from these two innovative breweries. Follow California Wild Ales and OB Brewery on social media to get the latest news and event updates.

San Diego Gulls | California Wild Ales

San Diego Gulls – Pregame All Season at Wild Ales

By cwa-blog, event

Pregame at Wild Ales all Season

Pre-Game at California Wild Ales Before the San Diego Gulls Home Opener!

Hockey is back, San Diego! 🏒 As the San Diego Gulls prepare to hit the ice for their home opener, the excitement is building—and there’s no better place to start your game night than at California Wild Ales! Located just a slap shot away from Pechanga Arena, our tasting room is the ideal spot to pre-game before the action begins.

At California Wild Ales, we’ve got the perfect setup to fuel your game-day hype. With 20 beers on tap, including everything from refreshing hard seltzers to bold IPAs and our signature sour ales, there’s something for every fan. Plus, we’ll be offering drink specials throughout the night, making it easy to grab a great beer before you head over to cheer on the Gulls.

Why Pre-Game at California Wild Ales?

  • Proximity: We’re practically neighbors with Pechanga Arena, making it a quick and convenient stop before you hit your seats.
  • Atmosphere: Enjoy the company of fellow Gulls fans, all hyped up for the game!
  • Variety: With a diverse tap list and exclusive drink specials, there’s always something new to try.

20 Beers on Tap

And here’s the best part: you can pre-game with us before every Gulls home game! Whether it’s opening night or a mid-season matchup, we’ll be here pouring the beers and getting you game-ready. Come by early, enjoy a laid-back vibe, and sip on some of the best craft beer San Diego has to offer before cheering on the Gulls.

Doors open early for all home games, so round up your crew, grab a pint, and get in on the pre-game fun. Whether you’re heading into the arena or sticking around for the game-day atmosphere, California Wild Ales is the ultimate spot to start your hockey night.

Let’s make this season unforgettable—come pre-game with us and let’s cheer on the Gulls all season long! 🕊️🍻

San Diego Gulls | California Wild Ales
Ocean Beach Oktoberfest-2022 - California Wild Ales

OB Oktoberfest 2024 w/ Special Beer Release

By cwa-blog, event

22nd Annual OB Oktoberfest

Ocean Beach Oktoberfest is back, and this year OB is taking it to a whole new level! Get ready for the most exciting festival of the season, happening Friday and Saturday—with more space, more beer, and more fun than ever before. We’ve doubled the festival grounds for twice the excitement, so come prepared for the ultimate beachfront bash!

🎶 Non-Stop Music and Festival Vibes

This year, there are two stages to keep the party going all weekend long. Whether you’re into live bands or electronic beats, the festival has all your music cravings covered. It’s a full-on Oktoberfest celebration by the sea, with something for everyone!

🍻 California Wild Ales: Your Oktoberfest Oasis

When you’re ready to kick back and relax, make sure to stop by California Wild Ales—the must-visit spot at this year’s Oktoberfest. With 16 taps of some of the best craft beer and hard seltzers around, we’re here to keep your energy up and your spirits high.

Feeling festive? You’ve got to try our special brews made just for Oktoberfest:

  • Oktoberfest Lager – A classic, smooth, and malty lager perfect for the season.
  • Sauerkraut Sour Ale – A tangy twist for the adventurous beer lover looking for something new!

Special Beer Release for Event

  • And if you’re in the mood for something cold and refreshing, we’ve got adult slushies ready to cool you off while keeping the good vibes going. Whether you’re taking a break from the dance floor or just looking for a chill spot to hang with friends, California Wild Ales is the place to be!

    🌊 Beachfront Fun + Fall Vibes

    With its prime location right on the beach, Ocean Beach Oktoberfest is the perfect way to soak up some sun while enjoying all the fall fun. From stein-holding contests to bratwurst and pretzels, you won’t want to miss a second of the action!

    So, round up your crew, throw on your lederhosen, and come celebrate Oktoberfest like never before. And don’t forget—when you need a break, head down to California Wild Ales for the best brews and chill vibes all weekend long.

    Dates:

    Friday & Saturday
    Location: Ocean Beach, San Diego
    See you at California Wild Ales for craft beers, hard seltzers, and more Oktoberfest goodness!

    Cheers, OB! Prost! 🍻

Paint & Pint Night | California Wild Ales

Paint & Pint Night

By cwa-blog, event

Paint & Pint Night at California Wild Ales OB! 🎨🍺

Looking for a fun way to unleash your inner artist while sipping on a cold pint of craft beer? Join us at California Wild Ales in Ocean Beach for Paint & Pint Night! We’ve teamed up with local art experts The Artist Outpost to bring you an evening filled with creativity, good vibes, and even better brews.

Event Details:

📅 Date: Saturday, October 19
Time: 6:00-8:00 PM
📍 Location: 4896 Newport Ave, Ocean Beach
🎟 Tickets: $39 per person
🎨 Special Offer: Book 2 people for just $69 with code cwa

What to Expect:

This isn’t your typical Paint Night! Inspired by the bold and vibrant works of Roy Lichtenstein, we’ll be guiding you in painting a sunset masterpiece using his signature comic book-inspired techniques. From bright colors to playful ben-day dots, you’ll get to experiment with iconic elements of pop art while enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of one of OB’s favorite spots.

Plus, every ticket comes with a pint of your choice, so you can sip on some of our house-brewed beers—whether it’s our refreshing Hard Seltzer, a classic IPA, or a bold Golden Sour. No art experience is necessary, and all materials will be provided.

This event is the perfect excuse to grab your friends, take a break from the beach, and enjoy a memorable night of painting and pints. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for something fun to do, Paint & Pint Night is the perfect way to spend your Saturday evening.

Wild Ales & The Artist Outpost

How to Book:

Tickets are $39 per person, but don’t miss out on our special offer! Book two people for $69 using the promo code cwa at checkout. Spaces are limited, so make sure to grab your tickets soon!

🎨 Get your creative juices flowing with a pint in hand! We can’t wait to see you at California Wild Ales on October 19!

Reserve your Spot