About Us: Independently Crafted in Cayman

Meet the brewers, explore our values, and join us on our craft Cayman beer journey

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The Only Independent Craft Beer in Cayman

1981 Brewing Co. is an independent craft brewery in the Cayman Islands dedicated to producing exceptional Cayman beers that stand apart.

We combine the finest ingredients with time-honored brewing techniques to create truly distinctive flavors. Discover the artistry and innovation that sets us apart as a leading Cayman Islands brewery.

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Our Story

From a Dream to a Reality: The Birth of 19-81 Brewing Co.

On a sunny Sunday afternoon, while enjoying a few cold ones aboard a boat on the crystal-clear waters of Seven Mile Beach, a question sparked a revolution: Why didn’t the Cayman Islands have its own craft brewery? This simple question ignited a passion to establish a local brewery that would cater to the Cayman lifestyle and embody the spirit of the islands, brewing truly authentic Cayman beer.

With a vision to create a brewery that would be synonymous with the Cayman lifestyle, the name 19-81 Brewing Co. was born, inspired by the nautical coordinates that define the islands’ location.

A new stainless steel tank being delivered to the 19-81 Brewing Co. brewery
Growing and expanding to brew even more Cayman craft beer!

Our journey began with three core Cayman beers: Cayman Blonde, Island Session, and Tropical IPA. These brews quickly gained popularity, and we expanded our offerings to include Ridgefield Pils, Apple Cider, and Guava Cider. With the addition of a state-of-the-art nano-kit, we’re now able to produce even more unique and flavorful taproom exclusives, all handcrafted with the finest local ingredients to deliver the freshest Cayman beer experience.

We are proud to bring you fresh, local, craft beer, made right here in Grand Cayman from the finest ingredients. 19-81 Brewing Co. is more than just a Cayman brewery; it’s a celebration of the Cayman spirit and a testament to our commitment to quality and innovation.

Close-up of our 19-81 Cayman beer taps, featuring Cayman Blonde, Tropical IPA, Island Session and Ridgefield Pils
Find your perfect pour. Explore our handcrafted beers on tap

Meet the Brewers

Get to know the passionate individuals who make your favorite Cayman beers

19-81 Brewer - John Mather
John brings a wealth of international brewing experience to 19-81. From Australia to Chile and beyond, he's crafted beer all over the world!

John Mather

Brewer

Originally from England, John has spent over 10 years in the brewing industry, working in brewhouses across the globe, including Australia, Chile, Vietnam, the UK, and now Grand Cayman.

After completing his university studies, John furthered his knowledge by studying with the Institute of Brewing & Distilling in London, ensuring he stays up-to-date on the latest brewing trends.

When asked about his favorite beer, John enthusiastically recommends the blueberry pie berliner by Brewski in Sweden, describing it as “fantastic.”

Jason Lambert

Brewer

A native of New Hampshire, Jason honed his distilling skills in Louisville, Kentucky. Arriving in Grand Cayman in 2019 as a rum distiller, he quickly fell in love with the people and culture of the Cayman Islands.

In 2022, he decided to expand his craft by helping to create amazing local beers, and 19-81 was the perfect fit.

Jason’s favorite beers are the Ridgefield Pilsner and Tropical IPA, depending on his mood. His favorite projects involve beer infusions, where he can use his distilling knowledge to create potent, flavorful spirits to infuse into beers.

These unique and robust twists on favorite 19-81 brews have been very well received

19-81 Brewer - Jason Lambert
Meet Jason, our resident beer infusion expert! His passion for distilling and brewing shines through in every unique creation
19-81 Brewer - Matt Matthew
Meet Matthew! With over 20 years of experience and a passion for crafting unique recipes, he's a true master of his craft

Matthew Zachok

Brewer

Hailing from New Jersey, Matthew has been brewing since the late 1980s, boasting over 20 years of experience in the craft.

His passion for creating unique and flavorful beers led him to experiment with his own recipes, eventually leading him to pursue brewing as a career.

Matthew’s dedication to the craft extends beyond the brewhouse. He has visited over 500 breweries around the world, collecting over 400 glasses along the way, and even operated his own home brewery.

His extensive knowledge and experience make him an invaluable asset to the 19-81 team.

The Freshest Cayman Beer

Experience 19-81

Come and visit our Brewery & Taproom

Enjoy our core brews on tap, plus taproom-exclusive specials. Chat with our brewers and ask about tours to experience the full 1981 journey.

ADDRESS:
273 Dorcy Drive,
George Town, Grand Cayman
GET DIRECTIONS

OPENING HOURS:
Tue – Wed: 2pm – 6pm
Thu – Fri: 2pm – 7pm
Saturday: 12pm – 5pm

HAPPY HOUR:
Tue – Fri: 4pm – 6pm

Find Our Beers & Ciders in Grand Cayman

You can find our core range of 19-81 beers and ciders at restaurants and bars throughout Grand Cayman.

View here the list of venues where you can find our brews and ciders:

19-81 Brewing Co. ship icon

237 Dorcy Drive. George Town. Grand Cayman

+1 (345) 945-0440

Taproom Opening Hours

Tuesday - Wednesday

2 PM - 6 PM

Thursday - Friday

2 PM - 7 PM

Saturday

12 PM - 5 PM

Visit Our Brewery & Taproom