Lighthouse Brewing Company
Esquimalt, British Columbia, Canada · Est. 1998
Tally's Take
Why this matters
A light goes out in Esquimalt. Lighthouse brewed from 1998 until January 2026, and then did the thing that almost never happens gracefully: handed its beers to a neighbour rather than letting them disappear. Phillips now brews Shipwreck and Race Rocks, so the liquid survives the company. That is the post-boom correction in one building.
The Museum
Timeline
- 1998Lit
Lighthouse Brewing begins brewing in Esquimalt, one of the earliest of the Vancouver Island craft wave.
- 2026Closed, brands rehomed
Shuts down on 25 January 2026 after 27 years. Phillips Brewing & Malting takes over the Lighthouse portfolio and keeps Shipwreck IPA, Race Rocks Amber Ale and Company Lager in production.
The Beer Library
Beers
Race Rocks Ale
Year-RoundAmerican Amber Ale
Named for the lighthouse at the entrance to the Strait of Juan de Fuca, on a rock that has wrecked ships since before the light was built.
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Common questions about Lighthouse Brewing Company
- Is Lighthouse Brewing Company still open?
- No. Lighthouse Brewing Company has closed (2026). Closed 25 January 2026 after 27 years in Esquimalt, citing economic headwinds and a highly competitive craft category. Phillips Brewing & Malting acquired the brands — Shipwreck IPA, Race Rocks Amber and Company Lager continue under Phillips.
- When was Lighthouse Brewing Company founded?
- Lighthouse Brewing Company was founded in 1998 in Esquimalt, British Columbia, Canada.
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