By Dylan Hochstedler and Neill Pieper

10 Barrel Brewing Co. recently popped the top on its Denver location with a grand opening in the River North District.

The brewery’s largest location features a rooftop bar, a beautifully displayed brewhouse and an extensive kitchen that has a menu for all occasions.

Newly hired head brewer Kay Witkiewicz mingled among the revelers during the evening. The Jan. 28 party featured live music from Dragondeer, Brent Cowles and Rapidgrass Quintet. RiNo’s newest arrival offered guests – among many choices - its Pray for Snow Winter Ale, a 7% ABV American ale.

Witkiewicz took time to answer a few questions for Thirst Colorado about his experience brewing at Twisted Pine Brewing in Boulder. He hails from Minden, Germany.

Q. What are some challenges in the switch from Twisted Pine to 10 Barrel?

A. The switch from a more manual brewing system at Twisted Pine to an automated system here at 10 Barrel has presented a few challenges. There is a lot of info to process in a short amount of time. Ben Shirley, (a longtime10 Barrel brewer who helped open the Denver location) has been getting me up to speed.

Q. What's your first beer at 10 Barrel?

A. First brew is an IPA that is fermenting wonderfully. During one of the interviews at 10 Barrel, they had me come up with a recipe and brew a beer on the spot, which is the recipe for this first IPA. Super dry and light, this beer will be around 6.5% ABV and loaded with tropical and citrusy notes with a slight pine-resin finish.

Q. What are you most excited to get started on?

A. Super stoked to start barrel aging beers. We have am awesome space for barrel aging and it'll be great to get some beers in barrels. I am also ready and excited for producing “pub” beers unique to our Denver location - unique recipes and flavors that are Denver focused.

Q. What are the benefits of joining a brewery-community like 10 Barrel?

A. The people and resources available to me are a huge asset. Years of experience in the business and strengths from the different pubs will assist in my growth as a brewer.

Q. Anything else?

A. I am excited to make my mark in the Denver brewing scene and make the 10 Barrel crew proud. There is a lot of opportunity to collaborate, especially in-house with the kitchen. Collaborative pairings with our chef and beer dinners will be a lot of fun.