Start-Up Business of the Year Finalist: Kulshan Brewery
Chris Noskoff (left), systems manager, and owner David Vitt toast the tastes at Kulshan Brewery in Bellingham. (Photo by Joella Ortega)
The new brew on the block: Kulshan Brewery finds its niche By Sherri Huleatt
T
here’s no question that Pacific Northwesters love their fair share of craft brews. But when the locals go so far as to start measuring the distance from their front doors to the entrance of their favorite brewery—all for the sake of bragging rights—you know you’ve come across something special. 32 | BUSINESSPULSE.COM
Kulshan Brewing Company burst onto the Bellingham brew scene in April 2012, and has since provided for plenty of thirsty customers. Between offering nine different locally-brewed beers and a laid-back atmosphere, Kulshan seems like it’s been here for several decades—rather than less than two years. “The response from the local community has been astounding,” said David Vitt, Co-Owner of Kulshan Brewery, located on James Street in Bellingham. “We
have a ton of regulars that come in on a daily basis, most of which are from the Sunnyland neighborhood.” Founding the company on a shoestring budget, their life savings, and an earnest love of beer, the men behind Kulshan pride themselves on offering the highest quality ales and outstanding customer service. When asked what inspired Co-Owners David Vitt, Mickey Vitt, Jon Greenwood, and Ralph Perona to open their brewery, David replied: “Simply the