Distant West Brewing has announced it has ceased operations at its Ballard brewery at 1406 NW 53rd St.
Owner Greg Macaulay posted an update on the Distant West website explaining the news, which comes after Distant West closed down its taproom in October 2025.
After closing the taproom last year, Macaulay pivoted to focus on wholesale, markets, and brewery pop-ups. But now, he’s calling it quits due to personal reasons, his letter to customers says.
“Unfortunately, not a happy update. For personal reasons, I have decided to officially cease operations at Distant West, effective immediately,” Macaulay said.
Distant West opened in February 2024 in the space where Reuben’s Brews got its start. Macaulay had already been brewing for two years when he opened Distant West.
“I want to reinforce my upmost gratitude to the people who have supported my little grassroots brewery. Every time I walked in and saw people enjoying the beer with the company of friends and family never got old. It really didn’t. The adjacent breweries always were friendly and while yes, we all wanted to sell the most beer, it was never malicious or cutthroat,” Macaulay said.
“We all offered help and support to one another and truly believed in the concept of high tides raising all ships. The Seattle beer scene is truly unique and loving. I felt accepted and ‘at home’ immediately and I am glad that I got to work with so many of you in one way or another. My heart grew three sizes working with y’all.”
The news comes on the heels of two shakeups in the Ballard Brewery District: Just yesterday, we shared that Bale Breaker Brewing has acquired Cloudburst Brewing. And, earlier this month, Wheelie Pop announced its closure after five years in Ballard.
​Macaulay said that while he doesn’t know exactly what’s next, he’s going to focus on being available to friends and family.
The brewery space and equipment will be available, Macaulay says. If you’re interested, you can email him at greg@distantwest.beer.
Photo by Distant West