Vasilios Gletsos to Fill Void Left at Laurelwood by Departing Brewmaster Chad Kennedy

As we mentioned earlier, Laurelwood Brewmaster Chad Kennedy is leaving his post at the award winning brewhouse to pursue a new endeavor in Bend, Oregon. With big shoes to fill, Laurelwood has turned to well known brewer Vasilios Gletsos to replace Kennedy. Gletsos, a fixture in the Oregon craft beer community has a wealth of knowledge and experience considering his young age. He has brewed at BJ’s, Astoria Brewing, Rock Bottom, and most recently, the head brewer at NAB’s MacTarnahan’s/Pyramid in Portland. Here’s the official word from Laurelwood:

Laurelwood Brewing Co. welcomes its newest team member, Brewmaster Vasilios Gletsos.  Vasili brings tremendous background and knowledge in the brewing industry to the Laurelwood family. His most recent position was with Portland Brewing Co. as the head brewer. Vasili rejuvenated the MacTarnahan’s brand and reengaged the beer drinking community with the 2009 Great American Beer Festival’s gold medal winning amber ale.  Vasili also held positions at Rock Bottom Brewing Co. as an assistant brewer, and BJ’s Restaurant and Brewery as a production brewer and later the head brewer.

Not only is Laurelwood’s new Brewmaster seasoned within the industry; he has an extraordinary educational background. Vasili graduated from the Siebel Institute of Technology, the country’s well renowned brewing institution located in Chicago, IL. Vasili also holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the Maine College of Art.

About Laurelwood Brewing Company

Laurelwood is a family owned brewery that creates one of the most recognized regional craft beers. Owners Mike & Cathy De Kalb are dedicated to sustainable and organic practices, and first began producing certified organic beer in 2001. Laurelwood’s product line is known for its creativity and quality therefore winning many national and international beer awards. Laurelwood’s handcrafted beers can be found on draft and in bottles throughout Oregon and Washington. To find out more about Laurelwood Brewing Company go online at www.laurelwoodbrewpub.com.