In a May 29, 2026 press release, Steel Bonnet Brewing Co. announces that they have earned two 1st place medals at the California State Fair. And more good news! The nanobrewery that launched its flagship taproom in Scotts Valley in 2019 also says it will be opening a family friendly taproom in Old Town Salinas.

SCOTTS VALLEY, CA — Steel Bonnet Brewing Company is proud to announce a standout achievement at this year’s California State Fair Commercial Craft Beer Competition, earning two 1st Place Medals for its signature brews:

Big Trees Red Ale — First Place, American Amber/Brown Ale

Black Dragon — First Place, UK Stouts Category

These top honors recognize excellence in craftsmanship, flavor, and style accuracy among some of the best craft breweries across the state. These wins cap off a successful 18 months for the Scotts Valley-based brewery, which has brought home a total of five medals (two 1st Place, two Silver, and one Bronze) across state-level competitions.

All five award-winning beers were brewed at Steel Bonnet’s Scotts Valley location by Head Brewer Peter Catizone, a 25-year veteran of the craft brewing industry whose experience and dedication to classic styles are evident in every batch.

“Craft brewing is a beautiful balance of tradition, science, and patience,” said Peter Catizone, Head Brewer. “To have both our Big Trees Red Ale and Black Dragon Stout recognized as the best in California is a testament to the hard work we put into every single batch. We don’t take shortcuts, and these medals prove that beer lovers—and judges alike—can taste the passion and experience behind the tap.” Pete is also a member of the Santa Cruz Mountains local band This Close!, a semi-acoustic Americana Roots rock outfit based in Boulder Creek.

Production Expansion and New Community Pub in Salinas

To meet increasing demand, Steel Bonnet has over the past 18 months expanded its production operations to a larger facility in Salinas, CA. The recent competition success comes at an exciting time of growth for the brewery. Steel Bonnet will be opening a brand-new taproom in Old Town Salinas within the next few months. “This new location will bring Steel Bonnet’s celebrated craft beers and its signature family- and community-oriented pub experience directly to the vibrant Salinas neighborhood.”

Marketing Director and talent buyer Kristen Caranza says, “While the heart of Steel Bonnet’s small-batch experimentation and community-focused brewing remains rooted at the original Scotts Valley microbrewery, the Salinas expansion allows the team to scale up production of its core beers and share its award-winning lineups with a broader audience across the region.”

Local craft beer enthusiasts are invited to visit the original Scotts Valley taproom to experience the medal-winning Big Trees Red Ale and Black Dragon Stout firsthand and help celebrate this milestone with the team.

About Steel Bonnet Brewing Co.

Founded by Susan and Donald Cramb 10 years ago, Steel Bonnet Brewing Co. is a family owned and operated craft brewery dedicated to producing high-quality, small-batch beers while fostering a welcoming, community-centered taproom experience. With a passion for both innovation and tradition, Steel Bonnet balances an approachable, family-friendly neighborhood atmosphere with award-winning, state-level excellence.

20 Victor Square Ext B, Scotts Valley, CA 95066
(831) 837-5845 | steelbon.net

Featured photo: label art by Nicky Gaston | IG @nickygaston

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