In the heart of Hilo, on the eastern side of the Big Island of Hawaii, a beer lover’s paradise exists in the form of the Hilo Brewing Company. The Hilo Brewing Company is a recent rebranding of Hawaii Nui, but long time residents still recognize this spot as the Mehana Brewing Company. Since its inception, the brewery has been a testament to the spirit of the island, combining a deep respect for tradition with a thirst for innovation. The story of Mehana is one that’s interwoven with the history of brewing in Hawaii, culminating in its 2009 acquisition by Hawaii Nui Brewing and subsequent rebranding to Hilo Brewing Company.
The Birth of Mehana Brewing Company
Established in 1995 by Dustin and Calvin Shindo, Mehana Brewing Company became synonymous with quality Hawaiian craft beer. Calvin Shindo has experience in starting a business, as he started the Hilo Soda Works brand in the early 1980s. The word “Mehana” translates to “the warmth of the sun” in Hawaiian, which encapsulates the company’s essence and mission perfectly. With a desire to craft unique beers that reflect the vibrancy and warmth of Hawaii, Mehana quickly distinguished itself in the brewing industry.
Making Waves in the Brewing World
Over the years, Mehana Brewing Co. has brewed a delightful array of beers, from robust porters to hoppy IPAs and light, crisp lagers. Each beer is a nod to Hawaii’s natural beauty and diverse culture, with tropical flavors and refreshing brews designed to quench the thirst of both locals and visitors alike.
The Hawaii Nui Brewing Acquisition
In 2009, a significant milestone in the history of Mehana Brewing Company occurred when it was acquired by Hawaii Nui Brewing. Hawaii Nui itself was formed in 2007 in order to acquire Keoki Brewing Company, which was created on Kauai in the late 1990s. Keoki beer was then relabeled under Hawaii Nui.
At the time of the 2009 merger, Hawaii Nui shifted its brewing and bottling operations to Mehana’s bottling facility in Hilo, which it leases from Hilo Soda Works, a firm managed by Dustin’s father Calvin Shindo.
This merger was not just a business transaction, but a coming together of two brewing entities that shared the same passion and ethos. Both breweries held a deep commitment to enhancing the craft beer scene in Hawaii and showcasing the diverse flavor profiles that could be achieved with local ingredients and brewing expertise.
Post-acquisition, the combined company continued to operate under both brand names, ensuring the legacy of both Mehana Brewing and Hawaii Nui Brewing remained intact. With enhanced resources, the merged entity has since been able to expand production, broaden distribution, and explore new and innovative brewing techniques.
The Journey Forward
Today, Mehana Brewing Company legacy continues under the Hilo Brewing Company moniker. The merger with Hawaii Nui Brewing has allowed the brewery to reach a larger audience, spreading the joy of Hawaiian craft beer to more people than ever before. The Mehana Brewing Company was not just a brewery, but a significant part of Hawaii’s cultural fabric, embodying the spirit of the islands in each beer it brews.
Despite the changes and growth over the years, the heart of Mehana remains in Hilo: a love for quality brewing, a passion for innovation, and a commitment to spreading the Aloha spirit through every bottle and can.
As you raise a glass of Hilo brew, know that you’re partaking in a tradition that’s deeply rooted in Hawaii’s history and culture. You’re not just sipping a beer; you’re savoring a piece of the Big Island’s vibrant brewing legacy.
Scott Sweeney is the creator of Virtual Hawaii 360. Scott is a professional marketer and a lifelong Hawaii enthusiast. Scott splits time between Oahu and Dayton, Ohio. In addition to his marketing endevours, he is also a published Ukulele musician.