Meet River Barrel Distributing: Your Premier Craft Beverage Partner in Western Washington
- River Barrel

- Sep 18
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 25
When it comes to bringing fresh, high-quality beverages to taps, shelves, and tables across Western Washington, River Barrel Distributing (RBD) is the bridge between local producers and businesses. Our commitment goes beyond delivery; we uphold freshness, consistency, and a sense of community in every step. We ensure that craft beer, cider, wine, and spirits arrive exactly as the makers intended. As a local distributor of craft beer, River Barrel is more than a logistics company; we are a trusted partner in the region’s thriving craft beverage scene.
Origins & Ownership
Founded a little over four years ago under the wing of Buoy Beer, River Barrel started with the idea of expanding beyond a single brewery’s products. Our goal was to elevate other craft producers as well, providing a distribution channel that values collaboration and quality. Today, that vision continues under the leadership of Joe Cohen, a seasoned veteran with more than 12 years in the beverage industry. Having worked his way through the ranks, Cohen now guides River Barrel with a forward-thinking mission: supporting small and independent brands while keeping service at the heart of our operations.
Service Area & Community Reach
River Barrel proudly serves a broad area across Western Washington, including King, Pierce, Thurston, Lewis, Snohomish, Kitsap, Jefferson, and Chelan Counties. By partnering with local retailers, bars, and restaurants, we ensure communities in these regions enjoy diverse and fresh craft beverages. Our service area reflects our commitment to strengthening local businesses and sustaining a connected craft ecosystem.
What Makes RBD Stand Out
What sets River Barrel apart is our curated portfolio. Instead of casting a wide net, we focus on selecting a diverse but carefully chosen lineup of craft beer, wine, cider, non-alcoholic beverages, and spirits that meet our high standards. Every brand is picked with intention, highlighting both quality and the story behind the maker. Beyond our portfolio, River Barrel emphasizes compliance, reliable customer service, and lasting relationships. Our dedication ensures that every client feels supported from order to delivery.
Inside the Operation
Behind the scenes, River Barrel operates with precision and care. Our DSD portal makes ordering simple and efficient, while weekly Fresh Sheets keep customers updated on inventory and new releases. Deliveries are managed through temperature-controlled systems to maintain quality and consistency, no matter the distance. Each order is handled with meticulous scheduling and personal attention, underscoring our promise of freshness from start to finish.
Meet the River Barrel Team
The River Barrel team is more than just logistics and sales; we're passionate craft beverage advocates. From the dedication of our sales representatives to the operations team, every member brings personality and enthusiasm to their role. Whether it’s discussing favorite beer styles or sharing stories from the field, their genuine passion for the industry builds strong connections with producers and retailers alike.
Impact & Commitment to the Craft Community
River Barrel is expanding its reach through exciting new partnerships. Recent collaborations include Little Beast Brewing, Hetty Alice, Living Haus Beer Co., and Aass Brewing, among others. Through these partnerships, River Barrel helps bring unique and innovative beverages into Western Washington markets. Our Fresh Sheet is another valuable tool, keeping businesses informed on seasonal & limited releases, and must-have inventory. This ongoing support helps keep Western Washington's craft culture dynamic and thriving. Check out our growing lineup of craft beer brands to experience the variety we support.
Why This Matters to You
For bar owners, restaurateurs, and retailers, choosing River Barrel means more than just a delivery service. It’s choosing a partner who genuinely cares about the quality, freshness, and reputation of the products they represent. With reliability at our core, River Barrel helps businesses meet customer demand while strengthening the region’s craft community. Our relationships and dedication make us a trusted ally in keeping Western Washington’s craft scene vibrant.
Discover a Better Way
Are you ready to elevate your beverage program with a partner who values quality, service, and community? Explore River Barrel’s Fresh Sheet, reach out to our sales team, and see how we can support your goals. Visit River Barrel Distributing today to stay updated on new brands, seasonal releases, and everything happening in the world of craft beverages.
The Future of Craft Beverages in Western Washington
As we look ahead, the craft beverage industry in Western Washington continues to evolve. New trends emerge, and consumer preferences shift. At River Barrel, we are committed to staying ahead of the curve. Our team is dedicated to researching and understanding these changes. We aim to provide our partners with the best products that resonate with their customers.
Embracing Innovation
Innovation is at the heart of what we do. We are constantly exploring new flavors, brewing techniques, and beverage styles. Our partnerships with local producers allow us to introduce unique offerings that excite consumers. By embracing innovation, we ensure that our portfolio remains fresh and relevant.
Supporting Local Producers
Supporting local producers is not just a business strategy; it’s a core value at River Barrel. We believe in the power of community. By collaborating with local breweries, wineries, and distilleries, we help them thrive. This, in turn, enriches the craft beverage landscape in Western Washington.
Building Lasting Relationships
Relationships are key to our success. We prioritize building strong connections with our partners. This approach fosters trust and collaboration. We believe that when our partners succeed, we succeed. Our commitment to service and support is unwavering.
Conclusion: Join Us on This Journey
In conclusion, River Barrel Distributing is more than just a distributor; we are your partner in the craft beverage journey. Together, we can elevate the craft scene in Western Washington. Let’s work together to bring the best beverages to your customers. Join us as we continue to grow, innovate, and celebrate the vibrant craft beverage community!



