Blue Cat Brewing Company, a staple in downtown Rock Island for almost three decades, closed on New Years Eve 2022. It’s safe to say this decision was not made due to poor beer quality. The classic brew pub was awarded six awards in this year’s World Beer Championship, an award for each beer they entered. In a statement made by their Brewmaster, Charlie Cole, in a Facebook post in December; the brewery cited lack of restaurant management and damage from burst water pipe as their reason for closing. The statement also included that they are unaware if this closure is temporary or permanent. The... Read More

Blue Cat Brew Pub in The District of Rock Island reopened in November of 2021 after a hiatus and name change. The brewery is already making a comeback in a big way, taking home multiple awards at the 2022 New York International Beer Competition. The 11th annual NYIBC received over 700 submissions from over 15 countries and were judged by trade buyers. Beers were awarded medals based on how likely judges were to buy, distribute, or import the product. Blue Cat was awarded bronze medals for their Vino #2 Wild Ale and Papa Bear Scotch Ale, a silver medal for their Emersyn Juliet Hefeweizen, and a... Read More