Countdown is on for Fritz Family Brewers

The taps are shined, the kegs are chilled, and even the cuckoo clocks are synchronized as the staff at Fritz Family Brewers (6778 79th St., Niwot) prepares for its long-awaited grand opening on Friday, July 23.

"We're excited to be opening up to the public and having people come in and enjoy the space and enjoy the beers," owner Cory Buenning said at a 'soft' opening for members of the Niwot Business Association on July 17.

Buenning and his wife Kelly purchased the taproom and brew house in November 2020 from Steve and Leslie Kaczeus, who launched Bootstrap Brewing Company there in 2012. The Kaczeus' were among the 50+ guests on Saturday night, and both the beers and renovations have their ringing endorsement.

Indeed, longtime patrons of Bootstrap's Niwot tap room might have difficulty recognizing it as the same space--from the inside at least. The Buennings have added windows and softened the main room's color palette, bringing more natural light into the space. Dominating the room is a wide three-sided bar, with ample seating and ample room to order a refill. The outdoor patio now includes a walk-up bar, and a rolling door for food truck access.

Buenning is thrilled to finally be opening the doors to Fritz Family Brewers, but knows that the hard work of launching a new business doesn't end when the doors open.

"We are in the middle of the hard part," Buenning said. "We haven't been open to the public yet, so we don't really know what the demand is, what staffing should be, do we have neighbors to appease. There's a lot ahead of us. But give me a few months, and it will be smooth sailing."