Newly Established Bend Brewery Secures Nomination for National Industry Accolade
Terranaut Beer has garnered a nomination for the USA TODAY 10 Best New Breweries list shortly after officially opening its doors in late 2024. This achievement highlights the rapid ascent of the Central Oregon business within a highly competitive national market.
Oregon Craft Beer Heritage Provides Fertile Ground
Bend has long maintained a reputation as a craft brewery powerhouse. This tradition began decades ago with pioneers like Deschutes Brewery and has evolved into a thriving district of innovation. Terranaut occupies a space at 20750 High Desert Lane which holds distinct historical value. This location previously housed Monkless Belgian Ales and served as the original site for 10 Barrel Brewing. The reuse of this facility connects the new venture directly to the lineage of Pacific Northwest brewing success. A nomination of this caliber so early in the company's lifecycle underscores the continued relevance of the region in the broader American beer landscape.
Founders Launch Experimental Brand to Critical Acclaim
Bryon Pyka founded the brewery alongside partners Peter Brantley and Katie Dunbar after his tenure as an innovation brewer ended at a major regional company. The team focuses on mixed-fermentation beers and styles that explore what they term the earthly realm of ingredients. Their approach combines Pyka’s technical brewing expertise with Dunbar’s artistic direction in the taproom. The facility features a music-driven atmosphere designed to stand out from standard beer halls.
Rapid Accumulation of Industry Awards
This nomination follows other recent victories for the young company. They previously secured recognition at Sip’s 13th Annual Best of the Northwest Beer Awards and the 2025 Oregon Beer Awards. The USA TODAY selection process involves a panel of experts who identify top contenders opened since early 2023. Public voting determines the final ranking among these nominees. The contest specifically targets establishments that demonstrate innovation and quality within their first years of operation.
National Exposure Likely to Boost Local Economy
Inclusion on such a prominent list typically drives significant interest from tourists and beer enthusiasts outside the immediate region. Terranaut Beer stands to gain substantial foot traffic and brand validation from this exposure. The nomination reinforces the status of Bend as a premier destination for beverage tourism. Increased visitation benefits the brewery owners and supports the broader network of local suppliers and food partners. Success on a national stage validates the business model and experimental brewing techniques employed by the founders.
The final results of the public voting process are scheduled for announcement during the first week of March.
