Meet the Brewer

Matt Ryan – Head Brewer

Matt has been working in the local beer industry since 2010. He began by washing and delivering kegs at Capital City Brewing Company and learning all he could about cellar operations whenever he was caught up on his regular duties. He continued to develop his skills and expand his knowledge base as an Assistant Brewer at Rock Bottom Brewing before returning to Capital City as a full-time Brewer. He was quickly promoted to a Lead Brewer role where he continued to hone his skills under Head Brewer Kristi Griner. In 2015 he took on the Lead Brewer role at Mad Fox Brewing Company. Several of his beers have won local awards, including a Gold Medal at the 2016 Virginia Craft Brewer’s Cup for his Mad Fox Keller Bier Kolsch.

Matt loves to brew everything from Belgian ales and hop forward beers to German lagers. He enjoys challenging himself with more exotic beers such as Mexican hot chocolate stout. While he enjoys creating an array of styles, he is eager to incorporate locally sourced ingredients into rustic farmhouse style beers at Cedar Run Brewery. Above all Matt loves to change people’s views and misconceptions on beer styles and open their eyes to new flavors and styles they have previously overlooked.

Outside of brewing Matt loves to spend time with his wife, Jennifer, and daughter, Lily. They enjoy camping and hanging out at the pool. He is also a huge soccer fan. When he and Jennifer are not cheering on Lily at one of her games, you can find them at most home DC United games or cheering on the men’s and women’s national teams.