Crux Fermentation Project Sold to Cascade Lakes Brewing: Oregon Beverage Collective Forms in Bend

In a major shakeup for the Oregon craft beer scene, Crux Fermentation Project, one of Bend’s most respected breweries, has been officially sold to the family behind Cascade Lakes Brewing Company. The acquisition marks the beginning of a new regional alliance called the Oregon Beverage Collective (OBC), a five-brand coalition designed to strengthen independent beverage producers across Central Oregon.

The deal, announced on 13 February 2026, transfers ownership of Crux from co-founders Paul Evers and Larry Sidor to the Rhine family, who have operated Cascade Lakes Brewing since 1994. While financial terms were not disclosed, Crux will continue to operate under its existing name and branding, now as a founding member of the Oregon Beverage Collective.

What Is the Oregon Beverage Collective?

The Oregon Beverage Collective is a newly formed partnership that brings together five Central Oregon craft beverage producers:

Crux Fermentation Project
Cascade Lakes Brewing
GoodLife Brewing
Silver Moon Brewing
Tumalo Cider Company

Inspired by similar models like Ninkasi’s Great Frontier Collective and Colorado’s Wilding Brands, the OBC aims to pool resources, streamline production, and create a more sustainable business model for small and mid-sized beverage companies. The collective will focus on shared distribution, collaborative brewing, and community investment—allowing each brand to retain its identity while benefiting from operational efficiencies.

Crux’s brewing facility will serve as a central production hub for the collective, helping scale output for multiple brands while maintaining quality and consistency.

Why Crux Fermentation Project Matters

Founded in 2012, Crux Fermentation Project quickly became a standout in the Pacific Northwest craft beer scene. Known for its experimental IPAs, barrel-aged releases, and scenic Bend taproom, Crux built a loyal following and earned national recognition for its innovation and quality.

The sale to Cascade Lakes Brewing marks a new chapter for Crux, as co-founders Evers and Sidor step back from day-to-day operations. Under the Oregon Beverage Collective, Crux is expected to continue producing its core lineup while expanding its reach through shared distribution channels.

What This Means for Cascade Lakes Brewing

For Cascade Lakes Brewing, acquiring Crux represents a strategic expansion and a chance to lead a regional beverage alliance. The Rhine family has emphasized their commitment to preserving Crux’s legacy while building a more resilient future for Oregon’s craft beverage industry.

The move also positions Cascade Lakes as a central player in the collective, with increased access to brewing capacity, brand diversity, and market influence.

Impact on the Oregon Craft Beverage Community

The formation of the Oregon Beverage Collective comes at a time when many independent breweries are facing rising costs, supply chain challenges, and increased competition. By joining forces, these five brands hope to preserve their local roots while adapting to a changing industry landscape.

For consumers, the collective promises more consistent availability, collaborative releases, and continued innovation from some of Oregon’s most beloved craft producers.

As the Oregon Beverage Collective begins operations, all eyes will be on Bend to see how this new model reshapes the future of craft beer and cider in the Pacific Northwest.