Local brewing supply store is named the best homebrew shop in the nation

The American Homebrewers Association (AHA) recently awarded Micro Homebrew the title 2021 HomeBrew Shop of the Year. The announcement came at the 43rd Annual National Homebrewers Competition, the nation’s most prestigious homebrewing awards program, which awards more than 120 medals in 40 different categories.

In 2014, Tony Ochsner and his wife, Kat, opened Micro Homebrew in Kenmore, Washington. Their goal was to create a friendly and informative shop that served homebrewers of all experience levels, from beginners to experts. Micro Homebrew is the fourth recipient of this award since it began in 2018.

Fifty-four shops from across the nation were nominated. The American Homebrewers Association Governing Committee considered all of the nominees on the merits of community support, education, customer service and engagement, promotion of homebrewing, and responsible business practices.

“To say the least, the last year has been a bit of a struggle,” says Tony Ochsner, Micro Homebrew owner. “One thing we were always able to count on was the support from the homebrew community. When we weren’t allowing in-store shopping, everyone placed their orders and never complained about the delays. When we opened the doors to a limited amount of customers, people waited in line to get in without a problem. It’s hard to express how much we appreciate all of your support. To those of you that took the time to nominate us for this honor, we especially thank you.”

Micro Homebrew was nominated by twelve local AHA members. Though the names of those members are kept confidential, the details of their nominations are not. Below, a few excerpted comments from the nominations:

“Overall Tony and his staff are amazing. Always very helpful and willing to provide support. I have been going to Micro Homebrew for the last 3 years, purchased my first kit from them and still continuing to do business there buying bulk grain.”

“The service is friendly and helpful and never pushy. The shop is clean and well stocked with the ingredients and equipment that I seek. During the pandemic, they have responded with safe practices and doubled down on customer service. So much to like.”

“Tony and his team offer exceptional customer service to go along with a wealth of knowledge. His store is welcoming and conveniently located. Throughout the pandemic, Tony and his wife kept the store open to support the surge in demand.”

Congratulations to Tony and Kat! Stop by and check out their shop at 17511 68th Ave NE B, Kenmore, WA 98028.