The Saga of Labyrinth Forge Brewing Company

Portland’s new brewery with the ancient inspiration

We strive to provide an inviting and interesting space for discovering great beer, feeling the magic of labyrinths, and being with fellow travelers. Located in the former location of Hair of the Dog Brewing, our Taproom is now open Tuesday through Sunday, providing a wide selection of beverages in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.

So, how did we find ourselves here?

The beginning of this epic

Labyrinths played an inspiring role in many ancient civilizations. Pliny the Elder mentions the “four labyrinths of antiquity” in his book called “Natural History”, these being the Cretan, Egyptian, Lemnian and Italian. The word is based on the root “Labrys” which is a double-headed axe (Go Timbers!) which is made in a forge.

Founder and brewer Dylan VanDetta started drawing mazes in high school, fascinated with the lines and pathways. He was interested in Celtic knotwork and the associated artwork. Thus was born the idea of a business named Labyrinth Forge—a place where mazes and labyrinths are made.

In 2012, Dylan followed his interests to craft brewing. He scavenged some equipment off Craigslist and joined the Oregon Brew Crew (OBC). After a year or so, Dylan became Treasurer, brewed as much as he could, went to seminars and toured breweries. He entered some competitions, took a BJCP class and became a beer judge.

The journey to the Brewery and Taproom

In early 2016, the Green Dragon Brewers offered him a position on the team. This gave him an opportunity to brew commercially and gave him access to the wealth of knowledge in the other members. As a Dragon, Dylan participated in the Cheers To Belgian Beers festival in June 2017 and the Willamette Week ProAm in October 2017 (as an “Am”) and October 2018 (“Pro”). In April 2018, Dylan collaborated with a brewery in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica and brewed a New England IPA on site.

After receiving the proper licensing from the TTB and OLCC (WMBW and BRW) in 2019, Labyrinth Forge Brewing Company was born. The company brewed beers for local markets in kegs and cans (and at one point had a micro-taproom in Dylan’s backyard). To take the next step, Dylan contracted for the space and much of the equipment from Hair of the Dog, with help from a small group of investors. In 2023, the Taproom opened, transformed into a new journey of exploration into discovery, comradeship, simple joys… and of course great beer.

Many thanks for so much help along the way

Labyrinth Forge Brewing Co. would not have made it this far without the help and support of its customers, investors, staff and fellow vendors.