Published August 20, 2026
Falling Sky Brewing is a Eugene-based craft brewery founded in 2012 that grew out of the Valley Vintner homebrew shop. Now owned by Stephen Such, the establishment is known for its locally-sourced ingredients and weekly charity pint nights.
Falling Sky Brewing: Falling Sky Brewing — Eugene, Oregon
Falling Sky Brewing has long stood as a testament to the spirit of independent craft in Lane County. Since its inception, this brewery has blended a passion for the technical art of brewing with a deep commitment to the agricultural riches of the Willamette Valley. For those who appreciate a pint that tells a story of the land, this spot has remained a cornerstone of the local beer scene, evolving through leadership changes while keeping its core values of quality and community intact.
The Origins of Falling Sky Brewing
The story of Falling Sky Brewing began in 2012, born from a shared vision among Rob Cohen, Jason Carriere, and head brewer Scott Sieber. The brewery did not start in a vacuum; rather, it grew organically from the roots of the Valley Vintner, a well-known homebrew supply shop. For many years, the brewery operated as an extension of that shop, physically located right behind the retail space. This connection to the homebrewing community gave the founders a unique perspective on what local enthusiasts wanted in a professional brew.
By integrating the supply side of the industry with the production side, the founders were able to experiment and refine their processes. This foundation allowed Falling Sky Brewing to establish itself not just as another taproom, but as a place where the science of brewing was celebrated. The early years were marked by a dedication to the craft, ensuring that every batch reflected the high standards of the founders and the expectations of the Eugene brewing community.
A Challenging Transition in Ownership
Every long-standing business faces a moment of transition, and for Falling Sky Brewing, that moment arrived in 2020. Stephen Such purchased the brewery from co-founder Rob Cohen, stepping in to lead the establishment into a new era. However, the timing of this transition could not have been more precarious. In late November 2020, just as Such was receiving the keys to the restaurant and brewery, the state of Oregon faced a critical juncture in the pandemic.
The very week the ownership changed hands, the Oregon governor implemented mandates that halted indoor dining service to curb the spread of COVID-19. This meant that the new owner began his journey not with a grand opening celebration, but with the immediate challenge of navigating a world where the traditional brewery experience — sitting together at a communal table with a flight of beers — was temporarily illegal. Despite these hurdles, the resilience of the business and the support of the Eugene community allowed the brewery to weather the storm and emerge as a stable, welcoming destination once again.
Locally Sourced Craft at Falling Sky Brewing
What truly sets Falling Sky Brewing apart is its unwavering commitment to using ingredients sourced from the surrounding region. The brewery views itself as a partner to Oregon farmers and foragers, believing that the best flavors are found in the backyard of the Pacific Northwest. This philosophy is most evident in their participation in the Cheers to the Land event, an annual celebration of local agriculture and land preservation.
Each year, the brewery creates a special Cascadian Dark Ale specifically for this occasion. The signature twist is the addition of spruce tips, foraged from the local landscape. This infusion adds a bright, resinous quality to the rich, malty base of the dark ale, creating a beer that tastes like an Oregon forest in a glass. By highlighting these seasonal and local ingredients, Falling Sky Brewing educates its patrons on the diversity of Oregon’s natural resources and the importance of supporting local growers.
More Than Just Beer: A Family-Friendly Space
While the beer is the draw, the atmosphere at Falling Sky Brewing is designed for everyone. The owners recognized early on that for a business to truly integrate into a community, it must be inclusive. This led to the development of a diverse beverage program that extends far beyond the beer taps. The menu includes a variety of cocktails and mocktails, ensuring that those who do not drink alcohol still have a sophisticated experience.
The inclusion of NA (non-alcoholic) options is a key part of their mission to remain a family-friendly establishment. Whether you are visiting with children or meeting friends who prefer non-alcoholic alternatives, the space is designed to be welcoming. This inclusive approach transforms the brewery from a simple bar into a community hub where families can gather, share a meal, and enjoy the social aspects of the craft brewery culture without feeling out of place.
Giving Back to the Eugene Community
The impact of Falling Sky Brewing extends beyond the walls of the taproom through its active involvement in local philanthropy. One of the most beloved traditions at the brewery is the Tuesday pint night. Every Tuesday, the business leverages its platform to support local charities, donating a portion of the proceeds from the evening to organizations that make Eugene a better place to live.
These events do more than just raise money; they provide a space for local non-profits to share their missions with a wider audience. By rotating the beneficiaries of these nights, Falling Sky Brewing ensures that a wide array of community causes receive visibility and financial support. This cycle of giving back reinforces the bond between the business and the residents of Lane County, proving that a local business can be a powerful engine for social good.
Integrating into the Lane County Experience
For visitors exploring the region, a stop at Falling Sky Brewing serves as a perfect anchor for a larger itinerary of local discovery. Because it is centrally located in Eugene, it acts as a great starting or ending point for those venturing further into the county. For example, after spending a day exploring the covered bridges and valley wineries on a Cottage Grove Day Trip, a pint of locally-sourced ale is the ideal way to unwind.
Similarly, those who have spent a high-energy weekend tackling the trails during an Oakridge Mountain Biking Weekend often find the relaxed atmosphere of the brewery to be the perfect recovery spot. By pairing a visit here with other regional highlights, you get a full picture of what makes Lane County special: a mix of rugged outdoor adventure and a sophisticated, community-oriented food and drink scene.
The Legacy of a Local Pioneer
Looking back at its journey from a homebrew supply shop extension to a community staple, Falling Sky Brewing has left an indelible mark on the Eugene craft beer landscape. It proved that a brewery could be successful by prioritizing the health of the local agricultural system and the well-being of its neighbors over corporate expansion.
The legacy of the brewery is found in the spruce tips of its seasonal ales and the funds raised for local charities on Tuesday nights. Through the leadership of its founders and the steady hand of Stephen Such, Falling Sky Brewing continues to champion the idea that beer is more than just a beverage — it is a way to connect people to the land and to each other. As Eugene continues to grow, this pioneer remains dedicated to the authentic, locally-driven spirit that defined its beginning in 2012.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Falling Sky Brewing founded?
It was co-founded in 2012 by Rob Cohen, Jason Carriere, and Scott Sieber.
What is the Cheers to the Land beer?
It is a Cascadian Dark Ale brewed with locally foraged spruce tips, created annually for the Cheers to the Land event.
Does Falling Sky Brewing support local charities?
Yes, the brewery hosts a pint night every Tuesday where proceeds are given back to local charities.
Is the brewery family-friendly?
Yes, they offer a family-friendly environment with a menu that includes cocktails, mocktails, and non-alcoholic options.
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Image credits
- Featured: Photo by W.D. Vanlue (CC BY-NC-SA) via Openverse.