Downdraft grows up, and down

Heading into its third year of operation, Downdraft has its sights set both big and small.

Last month, the Post Falls brewery began a series of small-batch (five-gallon) releases with a cranberry spice pale ale.

Four more will be tapped for Saturday’s second anniversary party: a Mango Jalapeno IPA, Golden Raisin Rye Pale, Cappuccino Tiramisu Brown Ale and Pumpkin Spice Amber Ale. They’ll pour one at time starting at 4 p.m., with a new one tapped as the previous selection runs out.

The vanilla stout that was introduced at last year’s anniversary party will also make its return in a half-barrel (15-gallon) batch.

Beyond the beer, food will be provided by the Mac Daddy’s Gourmet Grub truck starting at 6, with live music by Fair 2 Middlin’ around 7. Doors open at noon.

Downdraft will have a more steady food truck presence for year three. Las Brasas Mexican Grill, which has been stopping by on Fridays, will be parking next to the brewery Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. starting next week.

“We’re super excited to have them,” says Downdraft’s Aimee Brayman. “We’re working on some fun recipes together,” such as a taco platter designed to accompany taster trays.

Along with recently expanded hours – to seven days a week, with the addition of Mondays in September – Downdraft has been increasing its social media presence. A recent Instagram series took viewers behind the scenes at the brewery, and Facebook live sessions also have launched.

The latest, on Monday, invited viewers to vote on December’s small-batch release; you have through today to cast your ballot for a porter, double IPA or sour cherry rye.

“It’s really important for people to know what’s going on at the brewery, and who we are,” Brayman says. “There are so many choices out there these days that you need to find a way to stand out from the crowd.

“We’re trying to provide a more personal touch,” she says. “We want our customers to feel like they’re more than just customers coming to a store. We want them to know that we value their opinions.”

Another focus for the coming year is expanding the brewery’s presence in Eastern Washington, Brayman says, building on the recent addition of a sales representative.

“We want to do more events and become more a part of the Washington beer scene,” she says. “That’s the goal for 2017. We want to keep expanding in North Idaho, but Eastern Washington is going to be a huge focus for us.”