Brian Lock

Brian Lock is the owner and president of Santa Fe Brewing Company, a craft brewery located in New Mexico. His journey in the brewing industry began when he was fascinated by craft beer as a young man, specifically Full Sail Amber Ale from his hometown.1

Early Career and Brewery Acquisition

Lock graduated from Southern Methodist University with a bachelor's in sociology and a minor in business. After graduating in 1994, he worked in Portland breweries before moving to Santa Fe in 1995.1 In 1996, he became one of the new owners of Santa Fe Brewing Company, alongside Carlos Muller, Dave Forester, and Ty Levis (son of the original founder, Mike Levis).23

Brewery Growth and Ownership

In 2003, Lock bought out his partners and became the sole owner of Santa Fe Brewing Company.12 Under his leadership, the brewery has grown significantly:

• Expanded production from 1,750 barrels in 2004 to over 40,000 barrels annually13
• Moved to a larger 13,000 square foot facility
• Became the first brewery in New Mexico to can craft beer in 20102
• Opened multiple taprooms in Santa Fe and Albuquerque1

Lock is known for his innovative approach, introducing new product lines like Sky Island cocktails, All Ripe hard ciders, and maintaining a strong focus on IPAs, which make up 70% of craft beer sales in New Mexico.1

Personal Philosophy

Lock emphasizes creating products that reflect his brand's identity and meeting consumer taste profiles. He prides himself on hiring skilled staff and allowing them to guide product development, such as his brewmaster Bert Boyce, who previously worked at Boston Beer Company.1