Schönramer Brewery Makes Its Washington Debut with River Barrel Distributing

Bavarian Craft-Lager Excellence Now Flows into Washington and Beyond

We’re excited to announce that River Barrel Distributing is now the Washington distribution partner for Private Landbrauerei Schönramer - one of Bavaria’s most respected lager breweries. This collaboration marks a major milestone in bringing world-class, traditional German-style lagers to Western Washington.

A Heritage of Brewing Precision

Nestled in a small Alpine village of just 380 residents, Schönramer has been brewing beer since at least 1643, officially founded in 1780, and today produces nearly 94,000 barrels annually. Under the direction of Brewmaster Eric Toft, an American-born brewer who has spent decades mastering Bavarian techniques, Schönramer embodies what Toft calls “the art of drinkability.” The goal is simple but profound: every pint should make you want another. Their lagers rely on traditional methods - including decoction mashing, open fermentation, and extended cold lagering - to achieve a clarity and depth rarely seen in modern brewing.

“Drinkability isn’t about blandness - it’s about harmony,” says Toft. “It’s when malt, hops, and balance make you reach for the next sip.”

What Makes Schönramer Exceptional

• Refined Flavor: The flagship Pils is often praised as “the best in Germany” - noted for its elegant malt depth, delicate noble-hop aroma, and crisp, clean bitterness.

• Pure Ingredients: Using 100% Pilsner malt and water treated with natural slaked lime, the beers remain authentic without modern filtration.

• Aromatic Hops: Hallertau and Tettnang varieties are chosen for floral, lemony aromatics rather than brute bitterness.

• Perfect Balance: Each lager finishes dry, clean, and endlessly drinkable - what Toft calls “the pause before you realize you could drink another.”

Featured Beers Now Available from River Barrel

• Schönramer Pilsner

A Bavarian classic reimagined. Our Pilsner is more heavily hopped - yet leaner - than many other examples of the style. Using only exquisite Bavarian aroma hops, the flavor is bright and harmonious, never harsh despite 45 IBU. It finishes with a refined lingering bitterness. Recently, it was awarded Gold at the 2025 European Beer Star, earning the title World Champion in the German-Style Pilsner category.

• Schönramer Helles

A true everyday classic - balanced, uncomplicated, and elegant thanks to its carefully refined hop additions. It fits any occasion and pairs effortlessly with food or conversation.

• Schönramer Gold

A strong Fest-Märzen that captivates with a full body and fine hop aromas. Smooth malt sweetness conceals its 5.7 % ABV, delivering a palatable and celebratory lager that showcases Bavarian craftsmanship at its finest.

Why River Barrel Is the Perfect Fit

For River Barrel, this partnership is more than logistics - it’s about shared philosophy. Both companies value quality, craft integrity, and the joy of beer meant to be shared.

By introducing Schönramer’s lineup to the Pacific Northwest, we’re giving local bars, taprooms, and retailers access to:

• Authentic Bavarian lagers brewed with precision and heart.

• A compelling story of heritage, family ownership, and trans-Atlantic craftsmanship.

• A lineup that complements our mission to bring exceptional, independent beverages to our region - because Craft Flows Here.

(Learn more about our portfolio on the Brands We Distribute page.)

Launch Details

Our rollout begins this quarter with Schönramer Pils, Helles, and Gold available in draft and packaged formats through River Barrel Distributing. We’ll be hosting tastings, launch events, and educational sessions with retail partners to share the Schönramer story and showcase what true drinkability tastes like.

The Right Beer at the Right Time

Lager is having a renaissance - and Schönramer sits at the heart of it. As more craft drinkers seek balance over novelty, Schönramer’s understated mastery delivers everything people love about beer: clarity, refreshment, and authentic flavor.

Looking Ahead

Until now, more than 90 percent of Schönramer’s beer was sold within a 40-mile radius of its Bavarian home. Now, through River Barrel Distributing, these timeless lagers will reach a new audience of Pacific Northwest drinkers who value authenticity and tradition. Raise a glass - because now, more than ever, Craft Flows Here.