By SDCN Editor
San Diego, CA–In 1989, Karl Strauss Brewing Company opened its doors as San Diego’s first post-Prohibition craft brewery, sparking a revolution that would make the city the craft beer capital.
Thirty-five years later, Karl Strauss is still raising the bar, celebrating a year of milestones with the release of Imperial Red Trolley—a bolder take on their flagship, award-winning Red Trolley Ale.
“This year is about honoring where we started while continuing to build what’s next,” said Chris Cramer, co-founder of Karl Strauss. “We’ve never been ones to chase trends. For 35 years, we’ve brewed beers that are about quality, creativity, and making people happy, one pint at a time.”
In 2024, Karl Strauss brought bold new releases and fresh takes to fans in addition to its iconic full-year lineup and small-batch beers at the brewpubs:
Follow the Sun Lager joined the lineup as a crisp, year-round favorite in 12-oz cans, alongside Karl’s beloved classics like Aurora Hoppyalis IPA, Boat Shoes Hazy IPA, and Tower X West Coast IPA.
NA Red Trolley debuted as Karl Strauss’s first limited, non-alcoholic beer, proving that craft quality and flavor don’t have to come with alcohol.
Closing the year, Imperial Red Trolley—a bigger, hoppier version of the original—lands on draft at all Karl Strauss brewpubs and select bars and restaurants in CA, AZ, and NV.
Karl Strauss continues to build connections and community with the opening of Karl Strauss Dos Lagos in Corona, California its ninth Southern California brewpub. The new spot combines award-winning beer, an inventive food menu, and Karl’s first-ever arcade room for a fresh spin on the brewpub experience.
Meanwhile, Karl’s original downtown San Diego brewery—the place where it all began—is undergoing a remodel to honor its 35-year legacy. The space will feature updated interiors, group event spaces, restored brewery equipment, and a display of awards and artifacts celebrating Karl Strauss’s pioneering role in the craft beer movement.
Karl Strauss’s commitment to craft continues to earn accolades:
Golden Stout won a Silver Medal at the 2024 World Beer Cup, often called the Olympics of beer.
Brewmaster Paul Segura was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to San Diego’s beer community.
Tower X West Coast IPA, an ongoing collaboration with 91X radio, ranked No. 3 among West Coast IPAs in California this year.
“We’re proud of this work,” said Jennifer Briggs, Acting Chief Experience Officer. “Karl Strauss started as a brave idea—San Diego’s first craft brewery—and that same spirit drives us today. There is something so special about a brand and a business that stands the test of time.”
Karl Strauss’s 35th year is bookended with Imperial Red Trolley, available on draft at Karl Strauss’s nine brewpubs and select bars across the Southwest. With notes of deep caramel, rich toffee, and a higher ABV of 8.7%, it’s a celebration in every glass.
As San Diego’s longest-operating craft brewery, Karl Strauss remains a trailblazer in a city that’s now world-famous for craft beer.
To find a Karl Strauss location, visit karlstrauss.com.
