Chalice Brewing opens on Sherman Avenue

Chalice Brewing sold its first beers on a sunny Friday at its new brewery in downtown Coeur d’Alene.

“I’ve loved the natural beauty and community of this town for a long time,” said Brian Engdahl, owner and head brewer.

The brewery, 413 Sherman Ave., is in a historic downtown brick building built in 1918.

Friday's was a soft opening with walk-up service and sales out the front window. A grand opening is planned for later this year, perhaps as soon as this summer when indoor renovations are complete. When ready, it will feature a bar and full brewpub services.

But the beer is ready now.

Chalice Brewing’s three-barrel system will be Engdahl’s lab, allowing him to tinker and refine original and historical recipes.

Engdahl said his small-batch recipe ensures consistent innovation and improvement. He plans to supplement Chalice Brewing’s 14 taps with the best traditional offerings from regional breweries, as well.

While beer is Chalice’s primary product, Engdahl plans to produce cider and mead in the coming years with a focus on resurrecting forgotten fermentations.

“We don’t look back as often to appreciate the small things,” Engdahl said. “There are some amazing styles that no one ever hears about because they’ve been lost to ever-changing trends. I think it’s really important to honor the past and bring these historical recipes back to life.”

Engdahl earned degrees in fermentation science and business innovation management from Oregon State University and acquired an international certification in craft brewing from the Institute of Brewing and Distilling based in London. He worked at Widmer Brothers brewery in Portland before becoming head brewer at Ancestry Brewing in Tualatin, Ore.

He loves being in downtown Coeur d'Alene and operating his own brewery.

“I couldn’t think of a better place to open Chalice Brewing and provide a space that brings the community together.”