At Maxline Brewing, we believe great beer is about more than what’s in the glass. It’s about the people who brew it, the places that pour it, and the community that gathers around it. That belief came to life during our recent tap takeover at Smōk Barbecue, where craft beer, thoughtfully made food, and Fort Collins culture came together.
For an entire week, Smōk Barbecue featured Maxline beers on tap, paired with dishes designed specifically to complement each brew. It wasn’t just a tap takeover; it was a celebration of local collaboration.
A Fort Collins Partnership Built on Craft
Smōk Barbecue is known for doing things the right way: slow-smoked meats, bold flavors, and a deep respect for the craft behind every plate. That approach mirrors how we brew our beer—from ingredient selection to fermentation, we focus on quality, balance, and intention.
For this tap takeover, the Smōk team created meals meant to highlight the character of each Maxline beer. Rich, smoky flavors brought out malt depth. Bright, herb-forward elements enhanced hop character. Each pairing showed how thoughtfully made beer and food can elevate one another when craft is the priority.
Community Is at the Heart of Fort Collins Beer Culture
Fort Collins is nationally recognized as a beer destination, but what truly sets it apart is its sense of community. Breweries and restaurants here don’t just coexist—they collaborate.
Events like this tap takeover reflect what makes Fort Collins special:
- Local breweries partnering with local restaurants
- Chefs and brewers working together creatively
- Neighbors gathering to support small businesses
Supporting local isn’t a trend here—it’s part of the culture.
Beer on Tap, People at the Table
Throughout the week, guests enjoyed Maxline beers flowing from Smōk Barbecue’s taps while sharing meals, conversations, and connection. These are the moments that define craft beer culture—friends meeting over a pint, first-time visitors becoming regulars, and the shared appreciation for well-made beer and food.
As a Fort Collins brewery, creating those experiences is just as important to us as brewing the beer itself.
Why Tap Takeovers Matter for Fort Collins Breweries
Tap takeovers play a meaningful role in keeping local beer culture thriving. They allow Fort Collins breweries to:
- Showcase beers in a new culinary setting
- Build relationships with like-minded local restaurants
- Reach new audiences within the community
Most importantly, they strengthen the bond between breweries, restaurants, and the people who support them.
Cheers to Local Craft
We’re incredibly grateful to the team at Smōk Barbecue for their creativity, hospitality, and commitment to craft. If you joined us during the tap takeover, thank you for supporting local beer and local food. If you missed it, we’ve got more collaborations on the way.
When Fort Collins breweries and restaurants come together, something special happens—and that’s a culture worth raising a glass to.
FAQ: Fort Collins Brewery & Local Beer Events
What is a tap takeover?
A tap takeover is a local beer event where a brewery temporarily features multiple beers on tap at a restaurant or bar. It’s a chance to experience a brewery’s lineup in a new setting, often with special food pairings.
Where can I find Maxline Brewing beer in Fort Collins?
Maxline Brewing beers are available at our Fort Collins brewery taproom and at select local restaurants and bars throughout the area. Tap takeovers and events are announced regularly. We also sell our beers in liquor stores across Colorado, primarily in Northern Colorado.
Does Maxline Brewing host local beer events in Fort Collins?
Yes! As a Fort Collins brewery, we regularly participate in and host local beer events, including tap takeovers, cooking classes, and community collaborations.
Why are local brewery collaborations important?
Collaborations between Fort Collins breweries and restaurants help support small businesses, strengthen the local economy, and keep the craft beer culture community-focused.