Hometown Hero: Cape May Brewing Company

The Cape May County Coast Guard Community Foundation and U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May is pleased to recognize Cape May Brewing Company as this year’s Hometown Hero. This award is presented to a community member or organization that goes above the call of duty to embrace the Coast Guard as part of the Cape May County community.
In July 2011, owners Ryan Krill, Chris “Hank” Henke and Bob Krill began Cape May Brewing Co. with one simple question: “Where’s all the beer down here?” With that in mind, they decided to provide South Jersey with fresh, delicious, local beer and put New Jersey on the map as a craft beer state.
Finding a home at the Cape May Airport, they excitedly purchased a forklift and delivered their first keg of Cape May IPA to Cabanas Beach Bar and Grill. Since then, they’ve proudly brewed all their beers here, crafting balanced and flavorful ales and lagers for thousands of satisfied locals and visitors.
Cape May Brewing Co. has been on the forefront of the brewing industry since its founding. With a team of nearly 70 employees, their brews have been honored both locally and nationally. In 2107, The Topsail—one of the brewery’s Barrel Aged Series—was named ‘Best Beer of the Year’ by Beer Connoisseur Magazine, and the brewery was named second runner-up for the best brewery in the nation.
This year, Cape May Brewing Co. introduced a new brew to salute those who are “Always Ready.” Always Ready, the English translation of the Coast Guard motto “Semper Paratus,” is a Northeast Pale Ale. With the addition of wheat and oats for a medium body and brilliant aromas of tropical fruits like pineapple, mango and citrus zest, this lush hop-bomb was under development for over a year and introduced on Feb. 8, 2018.
Throughout the year, Cape May Brewing Co. beers can be found throughout South Jersey and Philadelphia, self-distributed to hundreds of bars, restaurants and liquor stores, ensuring premium freshness and excellent service.
The brewery’s tasting room is one of the largest and most accessible in the state, with a spacious and inviting beer garden. It is open daily from 12 to 8 p.m. for tours and tastings.