Gasseling Ranches Inc. + Fort Myers Brewing
COLLABORATION 8 / MARCH 2022
In 1910, William Gasseling Sr. emigrated from Holland and settled in the Yakima Valley, where he came to establish the family’s first hop farm in 1927. In 1947, William Jr. and Lorraine Gasseling moved their farming operations to Wapato, WA and developed the acreage that is still a part of the family hop ranch today. Together with Robert and Mary Jane Gasseling, they formed Gasseling Ranches, Inc. in 1972 as a third generation hop farm. Today, the farm is run by fourth generation grower Patrick Gasseling, with the help of Robert, Ernie and Trisha Gasseling.
The Gasseling family understands the importance of offering a well-balanced selection of quality hops. With a strong focus on sustainability and a dedication to the craft, Gasseling Ranches is certified under the Green Chief® and GlobalG.A.P. programs. As the industry evolves, they strive to invest in upgrades to infrastructure and technology whenever possible. Gasseling Ranches, Inc. is a proud owner of Yakima Chief Hops and looks forward to supplying brewers with premium hops for many years to come.
Established in 2013, Fort Myers Brewing Company was the first microbrewery to open in Lee County and continues to lead Southwest Florida’s surging craft beer movement. Founded by Rob and Jen Whyte, Fort Myers Brewing carries a signature line of flagship beers in addition to seasonal brews and small batch specialties.
Its ales, pilsners, stouts and IPAs are winners of multiple prestigious awards, including golds at the Best Florida Beer Competition, a silver at the 2018 World Beer Cup and a bronze at the 2019 Great American Beer Festival. Fort Myers Brewing was named “Best Large Brewery in Florida” in 2016. Its beers are poured at 1,041 locations, including 620 bars and restaurants, and are available for purchase in 421 retail outlets, including grocery, package and convenience stores.
