Kimo von Oelhoffen is a name that may sound familiar to NFL fans, as he was one of the League’s fiercest defensive lineman. Little would they know the same hands that mastered the art of sacking quarterbacks have now turned to a more family-friendly role: The owner of one of eastern Washington’s most celebrated craft brewpubs. Come sample his delightful brews and enjoy Oelhoffen’s amiable charm - the same hands that brought NFL quarterbacks to their knees can now be found pouring a perfect pint!
Kimo von Oelhoffen is an NFL veteran who recently retired from professional football and opened his own craft brewery in Eastern Washington. His hands trained to protect quarterbacks and rip through offensive linemen on the field, have brought him to the helm of von Oelhoffen Brewing. It offers the residents of Eastern Washington a sophisticated take on traditional craft beer.
Kimo was born to parents of Native American and German descent in Pocatello, Idaho. His father had served in the Air Force and Kimo’s family moved frequently during his childhood years. In high school, he started playing football for the first time and was quickly recognized for his talent. After graduating from high school, Kimo accepted a scholarship to the University of Idaho where he played college football.
Kimo von Oelhoffen was selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the sixth round of the 1996 NFL draft. He signed his first professional contract and began his career at the defensive tackle position. During his 14 year NFL career, he played for teams such as the Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Jets, and Philadelphia Eagles. In his time with the Steelers, he became a crucial member of the team, helping them advance to the Super Bowl twice and win once in 2006.
Kimo decided to retire from football after the 2010 NFL season. After his retirement, he began to pursue his other passions in life. He made plans to start his own craft brewery in Spokane, Washington, where he would produce quality craft beer. In the early stages of planning the brewery, Kimo experienced some challenges and had to change direction. But his hard work paid off and von Oelhoffen Brewing officially opened in 2019.
The same hands trained to rip through waves of offensive linemen in the NFL evoke the warmth of an affable family man who owns one of eastern Washington’s most celebrated brewpubs. The combination of Kimo’s football mentality with his creative gregariousness has blended to become the flavor of von Oelhoffen Brewing - making it a must-try for craft beer drinkers.
Kimo’s approach to craft brewing seeks not to mimic what other craft breweries are doing, but to resharpen the classic craft beer styles and create the entirely new. His main objective is to remain true to flavor and quality while also offering mini-batches and seasonal specialties.
Currently, von Oelhoffen Brewing has six offerings that cover a variety of classic craft styles. Additionally, they offer beer to-go, beer flights, and food options.
If you haven’t had the pleasure of stopping by Kimo von Oelhoffen’s brewery in Spokane, Washington, you’re missing out on something special. The combination of Kimo’s NFL quarterback-protecting defensive hands and his passion for crafting quality craft beer is making waves in Eastern Washington and will soon be making waves throughout the nation. Don’t miss it. Check out von Oelhoffen Brewing today.