OUR STORY
Brewing began in December 1990, and on January 22, 1991, Steelhead Brewing Company officially opened its doors. After 23 years of crafting local, handcrafted beer, McKenzie Brewing Company was established in 2014. In May 2024, McKenzie Brewery was acquired by Urban Restaurant Group, a locally owned collection of restaurants, catering companies, and venue spaces by husband and wife, Mark and Carla Byrum, based in Oregon. Today, locals and visitors alike come together to enjoy delicious food and award-winning beer. McKenzie Brewing proudly serves as the outside distribution line for Kennedy’s Steakhouse and Urban Restaurant Group in Oregon.
MEET THE BREWER
MIKE ALLEN
Mike’s passion for beer started early, and for 18 years, he honed his craft as an avid home brewer. With a background as a Red Seal Journeyman Welder, Mike decided to shift his focus from welding to brewing, driven by the desire for a more fulfilling and stable career in the beer industry.
At McKenzie Brewing, Mike oversees all aspects of the brewing process, applying his keen attention to detail and deep understanding of the scientific principles that go into crafting exceptional beer. His knowledge of gases, liquids, pH levels, and pressure ensures the highest quality in every batch.
Mike completed a two-year Craft Beverage and Brewery Operation program in Canada, which led him to Head Brewing Operations roles at two Canadian breweries. He later returned to Oregon, where he became General Manager of Fearless Brewing Company, before joining McKenzie Brewing Company in 2021.
Since then, Mike has been producing award-winning
beers that continue to earn recognition across the industry.
His accolades include both national and international awards, and he’s eager to add even more to McKenzie Brewing’s trophy shelf.
AWARDS:
● Silver – Rye Beer, World Beer Cup (2018)
● Bronze – Smoked Beer, Canadian Brewing Awards (2018)
● Silver – Wheat Beer, Alberta Beer Awards (2019)
● Gold – Stout, Alberta Beer Awards (2019)
● Gold – Wheat/Wit/Rye, Canadian International Beer Awards (2019)
● Silver – Wheat/Wit, Alberta Beer Awards (2020)
● Judges Selection – Best Cider, Alberta Beverage Awards (2020)
● Double Gold – Imperial IPA, Best of the Northwest SIP Awards (2022)