In a significant development for New Mexico’s craft beer landscape, Bosque Brewing has declared the immediate shutdown of its remaining taprooms across the state. This decision follows a federal judge’s dismissal of the company’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing, marking the end of a tumultuous period for one of the region’s prominent breweries. The announcement, made via social media, underscores the mounting financial pressures faced by the business in recent months.

The closures will affect multiple locations, with the Nob Hill Public House in Albuquerque ceasing operations at 5 p.m. on December 26, 2025. The other five taprooms, including two in Albuquerque, two in Las Cruces, and one in Bernalillo, are scheduled to close at 5 p.m. on December 28, 2025. This move comes after a series of prior shutdowns that have gradually reduced the company’s footprint.

Company representatives expressed deep appreciation for the support received over the years. In their statement, they highlighted the role of the community in building the brand’s success. The focus now shifts to ensuring a smooth transition for affected staff and preserving elements of the business that can continue forward.

Historical Overview of Bosque Brewing

Bosque Brewing began its journey in November 2012, founded by a group of friends passionate about craft beer. The initial team included Gabe Jensen, Jotham Michnovicz, Kevin Jameson, and Jared Michnovicz, who started operations with a modest 3-barrel system in a strip mall location on San Mateo Northeast in Albuquerque. In its inaugural year, the brewery produced approximately 350 barrels of beer, laying the foundation for what would become a statewide presence.

The company’s early success stemmed from a commitment to quality and community engagement. Popular offerings like their signature lagers and IPAs quickly gained a loyal following among local beer enthusiasts. By focusing on sustainable growth, Bosque Brewing expanded its production capabilities and diversified its portfolio to include seasonal and specialty brews.

As demand increased, the brewery invested in larger facilities to meet market needs. This period of growth saw the introduction of innovative brewing techniques and collaborations with other local producers. The emphasis on using regional ingredients helped solidify its reputation as a authentically New Mexican brand.

John Bullard joined the team in 2014 as head brewer, bringing experience from previous roles in the industry. His contributions were instrumental in scaling up operations during the first major expansion phase. Under his guidance, the brewery enhanced its core lineup while experimenting with new flavors to appeal to evolving consumer tastes.

Key Milestones in Expansion

The expansion strategy began in earnest around 2014, with the opening of additional taprooms to broaden accessibility. Bosque North in Bernalillo became a central hub, serving as the primary brewing facility and a popular gathering spot for events. This location allowed for increased production volumes and distribution beyond Albuquerque.

In subsequent years, the company ventured into new markets within the state. Locations in Las Cruces provided a southern foothold, catering to a growing customer base in that region. The strategy involved acquiring existing spaces and rebranding them to fit the Bosque aesthetic, which emphasized cozy, community-oriented environments.

The entry into Santa Fe marked a significant step in 2021 with a taproom at the Railyard district. This was followed by the launch of Restoration Pizza in December 2022, replacing the initial taproom and introducing a food component to the brand. The Drinkery opened in June 2023, offering craft cocktails alongside beers to diversify the offerings.

Further growth in Albuquerque included the San Mateo Public House and Bosque West, both opened in 2024. These sites aimed to capture different neighborhoods, with Bosque West occupying a former Lava Rock space. By mid-2025, the company operated 11 locations, reflecting ambitious plans to dominate the local craft beer scene.

In March 2024, announcements of three new locations signaled continued optimism. However, this rapid expansion coincided with broader economic shifts that would later contribute to financial strains. The company’s footprint spanned taprooms, pizza outlets, and hybrid venues, creating a multifaceted business model.

Onset of Financial Difficulties

The craft beer industry in New Mexico, like many others nationwide, faced substantial headwinds starting with the COVID-19 pandemic. Mandatory shutdowns of brewery-restaurant hybrids disrupted operations for extended periods, leading to revenue losses that many businesses struggled to recover from. Bosque Brewing, with its reliance on in-person gatherings, was particularly vulnerable during this time.

Post-pandemic, rising labor and production costs exacerbated the situation. Inflation affected everything from ingredients to utilities, squeezing profit margins. Consumer habits shifted as well, with reduced alcohol consumption trends and increased competition from non-alcoholic alternatives impacting sales volumes.

Over-saturation in the market added another layer of challenge. The number of active breweries in New Mexico peaked but began to decline as smaller operations closed. Larger players like Bosque had to navigate this crowded landscape while managing debts accumulated from expansions during more prosperous times.

Company leaders acknowledged these pressures in public statements, emphasizing the need for restructuring to ensure long-term viability. Debts from the COVID era, including loans and deferred payments, compounded with operational costs from new locations. Some sites, like San Mateo, encountered ongoing issues that hindered profitability.

Broader Industry Context

Nationwide, craft beer production and sales dropped about 4 percent from 2023 to 2024, according to industry reports. More breweries closed than opened in recent years, signaling a contraction phase after a decade of rapid growth. In New Mexico, similar patterns emerged, with local brewers adapting to economic realities.

Changing consumer preferences played a role, with a move toward healthier options and experiential events over traditional taproom visits. Tariffs and supply chain disruptions further increased costs for imported ingredients, affecting recipe consistency and pricing strategies.

Many breweries turned to non-alcoholic beverages and community events to diversify revenue streams. However, for those with heavy debt loads, these measures were insufficient. The industry’s transition involved reevaluating business models to prioritize sustainability over aggressive expansion.

In New Mexico specifically, the craft beer sector grappled with decreased oil demand affecting local economies, reduced federal employment, and corporate tax changes. These factors contributed to belt-tightening among consumers, reducing discretionary spending on craft beverages.

Bankruptcy Filing and Initial Responses

On October 6, 2025, Bosque Brewing filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, aiming to reorganize its debts while continuing operations. The filing listed liabilities between 10 million and 50 million dollars, with assets under 10 million dollars. Approximately 190 unsecured creditors were involved, highlighting the extent of financial obligations.

The intention was to maintain all 11 locations open during the restructuring process. Company officials expressed confidence in navigating the challenges to emerge stronger. This filing came weeks after a partnership with Marble Brewery to produce core beers, indicating efforts to streamline operations.

In November 2025, co-owners Gabriel Jensen and Jotham Michnovicz filed for personal Chapter 7 bankruptcy, involving asset liquidation to repay creditors. This step halted related legal actions, including a complaint for over 67,000 dollars in unpaid rent for Santa Fe properties.

The bankruptcy proceedings revealed underlying issues, such as inadequate insurance coverage and lack of projected positive cash flow. These factors would later influence the court’s decision. During this period, the company focused on transparency and supporting its teams through the uncertainty.

Timeline of Closures

The first wave of closures occurred on December 9, 2025, with the immediate shutdown of both Santa Fe locations: Restoration Pizza at the Railyard and The Drinkery on the south side. This decision affected 26 employees, who were offered support during the transition. The move was described as necessary to focus resources on core operations amid the restructuring.
On December 16, 2025, two Albuquerque taprooms followed suit: the San Mateo Public House at 6220 San Mateo Northeast and Bosque West at 2220 Unser Northwest. These sites, both opened the previous year, struggled with operational challenges, including staffing and neighborhood dynamics. The closures impacted 32 employees, with the company expressing gratitude for their contributions to the community atmosphere.
Prior to the full announcement, four locations had already been shuttered, reducing the operational footprint significantly. The remaining sites included Bosque North in Bernalillo, which served as the main brewing hub, though production had largely shifted. This phased approach aimed to minimize disruptions but reflected escalating financial pressures.
The final announcement on December 26, 2025, encompassed the Nob Hill Public House closing that day and the other five taprooms two days later. This brought the total to all Bosque-branded public houses ceasing operations. The rapid succession of closures underscored the urgency following the bankruptcy dismissal.
Throughout the process, unrelated entities like Restoration Pizza and Smothered Brunch continued unaffected, as they operated independently. This distinction allowed some continuity in associated brands while the core brewery faced shutdowns. The timeline illustrates a progression from targeted reductions to complete taproom closure.
Employee impacts accumulated with each phase, totaling significant job losses across the state. The company prioritized assisting staff with transitions, including potential opportunities at partner breweries. Community responses highlighted the emotional toll, as these locations had become staples for social gatherings.
The sequence of events was influenced by court proceedings, with the bankruptcy dismissal acting as the catalyst for the final decision. This structured reduction aimed to preserve value where possible, though it ultimately led to widespread closures. The pattern reflects common strategies in distressed businesses within the industry.
Looking back, the closures began amid vendor disputes, including missed payments to key suppliers totaling over 117,000 dollars. These issues threatened ongoing operations and contributed to the decision-making process. The timeline serves as a case study in navigating financial distress in a competitive market.

Court Decision and Final Announcement

U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Robert H. Jacobvitz dismissed the Chapter 11 case on December 22, 2025, following a recommendation from U.S. Trustee Ilene Lashinsky. The dismissal was based on the company’s inability to generate positive cash flow in the first quarter of 2026 and its properties being fully encumbered by Live Oak Bank. Additionally, failure to maintain required insurance coverage violated federal law and court orders.

The judge determined that dismissal, rather than conversion to Chapter 7 liquidation, was in the best interest of creditors. This ruling effectively ended the court-led restructuring efforts, leaving the company without legal protection to reorganize. Attorneys noted that only the primary lender might recover funds, given the asset-to-debt ratio.

Following the dismissal, Bosque Brewing announced the full closure on December 26, 2025, via social media. The statement conveyed heartfelt thanks to patrons and staff, acknowledging the pain of the decision. It emphasized that the brand’s beers would continue production through Marble Brewery, with some longtime brewery crew transitioning there.

Marketing manager Natasha Souther confirmed the direct link between the judge’s decision and the closures. The announcement clarified that independently owned Restoration Pizza and Smothered Brunch would remain open, separating them from the affected operations. This final step marked the culmination of months of financial maneuvering.

Impacts on Employees and the Community

The series of closures has had a profound effect on employees, with dozens losing jobs in a short span. In the Santa Fe shutdowns alone, 26 staff members were impacted, followed by 32 in Albuquerque. The total number across all locations likely exceeds 100, considering the company’s earlier workforce size.

Company leaders committed to supporting affected employees through the transition, including assistance with job placement. Some brewing staff have opportunities to continue at Marble Brewery, preserving expertise in beer production. The timing, close to holidays, amplified the hardship for many families.

The community has felt the loss deeply, as Bosque taprooms served as social hubs for gatherings, events, and local culture. Patrons shared stories of memorable experiences, from tasting sessions to community fundraisers. The closures represent a gap in New Mexico’s vibrant craft beer scene, potentially affecting local tourism and economy.

Local reactions included expressions of sadness and support on social media. Many highlighted how the taprooms fostered a sense of belonging. Economic ripple effects may include reduced foot traffic in neighborhoods where locations operated, impacting nearby businesses.

Future Outlook for the Brand

While taprooms close, the Bosque beer brand persists through its partnership with Marble Brewery. Core offerings will continue to be available in cans and on draft at select locations. This arrangement ensures the legacy of popular brews endures beyond the physical spaces.

The company remains committed to its roots in New Mexico, though in a scaled-back form. Future possibilities could include limited pop-up events or collaborations, depending on resolution of remaining debts. The focus shifts to stabilizing the production side while honoring past contributions.

Industry observers note that such restructurings can lead to rebirth in new formats. For Bosque, this might involve emphasizing distribution over retail presence. The outcome depends on creditor negotiations and market conditions in the coming months.

Conclusion

The closure of Bosque Brewing’s taprooms signifies a challenging chapter’s end for a once-thriving New Mexico enterprise. From humble beginnings in 2012 to statewide expansion, the company navigated growth amid industry shifts, only to face insurmountable financial hurdles exacerbated by the pandemic and economic pressures. The bankruptcy dismissal accelerated the shutdowns, affecting employees and communities deeply while preserving the beer production through partnerships. This event reflects broader trends in the craft beer sector, where adaptation is key to survival. As the brand moves forward in a reduced capacity, its legacy of community building and quality brews remains a testament to its impact on the state’s cultural landscape.