Brewmaster, Ogden Beer Company

Jacquie King is the Head Brewer at Ogden Beer Company and has been in the industry for 10 years. She lives in Ogden with her husband and husky mix. In her free time, she enjoys river rafting, hiking, and spending time in the desert.

How did you get into brewing? What drew you to the craft?

I spent time in Germany as a child, and the history and culture of beer always interested me. As I grew older, I wanted a career that would blend science and creativity. Beer was the perfect fit. I started off apprenticing and continued my education by attending formal classes while working full time as a brewer.

Tell us about your gold-winning Cultura Cerveza at the 2026 World Beer Cup. What inspired it, and what makes it special?

At OBC, we focus on lagers, so easy-drinking beers. We knew we wanted a Mexican Lager and an American Lager as two of our core beers. Cultura was the third beer we brewed, and it's been a work in progress since. The award-winning recipe for Cultura finally came about in January of this year. I think working on process, taking feedback and not being afraid to change things up is what makes this beer stand apart.

What's your favorite beer you've ever made and why?

Cultura, definitely. It's a big deal to win a World Beer Cup Gold medal, especially for lager. There's nothing to hide behind in Lager Biers. You have to have a clean, unflawed beer. It will always be something special to me and the whole team and Ogden Beer Company.

What has it been like being a woman in the male-dominated world of craft brewing?

It has been an interesting journey. Utah has a history of females in craft beer, so it's been great to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Jenn Talley. Utah has always been supportive.

Do you have a mentor, or woman, who inspired your path?

I'll always be grateful to Steve Kirkland for taking a chance on me at Roosters. I also greatly look up to and rely heavily on Kevin Templin.

What beer do you reach for at the end of a long day -- yours or someone else's?

Cultura Cerveza of course, if I'm in Ogden. I'm also always grabbing a TF Brewing Helles Lager. You can't beat that beer.

What food pairing would you recommend with the Cultura Cerveza?

A great taco. The crisp refreshing cerveza will cool down any heat.

Where can readers find your beer?

We distribute throughout Utah. You can always find the beer at Ogden Beer Company, 358 Park Blvd. It's also at Slackwater and select bars in Salt Lake, and in cans at Harmons, Fresh Market and some C stores throughout the state, as well as DABS liquor stores.

How has the craft brew scene in Ogden changed since you started?

It's changed quite a bit in 10 years. Roosters and Talisman were the only craft breweries in town. It's been great to see the expansion. We've lost a few breweries over the years, but Ogden as a whole can definitely support more breweries. I think we are still an underserved market.

Q&A: Jacquie King