Alarmist Brewing, a brewery located in Sauganash, will close its doors on February 1 after nearly ten years of operation. The announcement was made by owner Gary Gulley, who has led the business since it began brewing in 2015 and opened its taproom at 4055 W. Peterson Ave. in 2017.
Gulley cited ongoing financial difficulties following the COVID-19 pandemic as a primary reason for the closure. He noted that customer habits have changed since the pandemic: “People just aren’t drinking as much” post-pandemic, a trend that has affected breweries and wineries across the United States.
Reflecting on recent months, Gulley said, “We got into November and I was looking at the numbers and when I was having trouble buying ingredients, I knew we were in trouble.”
Alarmist Brewing holds significance in Sauganash as it has been the only bar in the neighborhood. The brewery is located behind an office park in a building formerly used by the Siebel Institute of Technology. Opening required lifting a long-standing liquor moratorium in the area. The business also faced regulatory challenges obtaining a patio license due to zoning restrictions but eventually opened its beer garden in 2021.
The lack of nearby bars and restaurants made it difficult to attract foot traffic, though Alarmist developed a base of local regulars. Over time, it became known for hosting community events such as dog adoptions, charity fundraisers, and school council gatherings.
Gulley expressed appreciation for these connections: “That’s probably one of the biggest things that we’re going to miss, that community connection.”
He announced the closure via social media earlier this week and described strong reactions from customers: “Some of my regulars have been crying, I’ve been crying, it’s a super emotional time.”
In his announcement post, Gulley invited neighbors to visit before closing day: “Help us empty the beer tanks, snag the remaining merch, pick up the last cases to go and swap stories before we turn out the lights.”
Alarmist Brewing earned recognition for its beers during its years of operation; Le Jus hazy IPA won gold at the Great American Beer Festival in 2018 and Pantsless pale ale received bronze at the same festival in 2020.
A final party is planned for January 31 at Alarmist’s taproom. Details will be shared soon.
“I wish we could stick around longer because it was really great,” Gulley said. “We really appreciate all of our customers and regulars and people who stuck by us over the years.”
