West Slope is the Best Slope: Billy Goat Hops and Wild Edge Brewing Collective

WildEdge Brewing Collective opened on April 11th, 2017 in downtown Cortez after a 7 month renovation of a vacant warehouse. Our concept is that great beer builds great community. Our central location in Cortez, one block north of Main Street in the Central Business District, provides a great space to pursue this goal.

​Between our ever changing tap list of house made beers, our rotating hard cider tap featuring Colorado produced ciders, and a variety of local wines, everyone can find something to enjoy in our open and welcoming tap room. Hungry? Take a look at our menu of locally sourced foods that are the perfect snack or meal to compliment your beer.

--

Billy Goat Hop Farm is the largest hop farm in the Southwest, providing superior quality fresh, whole cone, and pelletized hops directly to craft brewers. Starting in 2017, they've grown to 32 acres that produce 9 varieties of craft hops. In 2022, they began sourcing different varieties of whole cone hops from other quality growers, and then processing themselves in order to offer more varieties to their brewers.  

Owners and farmers Chris and Audrey pride themselves on creating genuine farmer-brewer relations and bringing true craft into their process. Combining traditional hands-on practices and state-of-the-art technology, they use less water and chemicals which transcends into a healthier ecosystem, soil, and hop plants. Brewers enjoy the bright aroma and subtly unique aroma profile imparted from Colorado's terroir, and the passion poured into every step of the process.

They also are opening their doors to the public this summer 2025. This is a unique opportunity to learn about hop farming and processing, sleep next to hop bines with views of the San Juan Mountains, and drink beer made with hops grown right there! They'll have 'Fridays on the Farm' throughout the summer that include beer from supporting breweries, local food, and yard games. Their annual harvest celebration - the Southwest Fresh Fest - with all fresh hop beers, live music, local food, a farm tour, and yard games is held in September every year too!