Stronghouse Brew Pub Team
Brewmaster Sam Enders
Born in Colorado, Sam moved to Telluride to work at the ski resort in 2008 after years living and working in Boulder. A self-styled beer fanatic, Sam started experimenting with brewing beer in his home. Sam proved to be extremely talented at home brewing. How talented exactly? So talented he was hired at Telluride Brewing Company in 2012, and for the next seven years helped them win numerous medals at national and world beer competitions.
As Stronghouse Brewmaster, Sam crafts his unique mix of original ales and lagers, drawing influence from brewing traditions all over the world. He uses local Colorado ingredients when possible to deliver an exceptional roster of seasonally rotating beers utilizing latest in craft brew technology.
Favorite Beer: Stronghouse Lager
Chef Michael Moran
A proud native of Kentucky, Michael received his first cook book when he was 12 years old, and a lifetime love affair was forged. Upon graduation from Culinary School, he immediately heeded the call of the mountains. After cooking in Aspen, he headed back south to other kitchens in Georgia and Kentucky. Michael then headed to California for the opportunity to work with Michelin star awarded Chef Walter Manske at L’Auberge Carmel and Bouchée. The mountains were calling again, this time from Telluride. Implementing his classically influenced cuisine with a contemporary touch, Michael soon became Executive Chef at the New Sheridan Chop House.
In 2021, Michael took over the culinary program here at Stronghouse. “Our local customers are really our driving force. Their comments and critiques help us evolve and we are delighted to repay their loyalty.”
Outside of work Michael is a vinyl record enthusiast, avid traveller, and enjoys all the outdoor activities, especially boating, fishing, and skiing, that Telluride and the surrounding areas have to offer.
Favorite Beer: Coldfire Pale Ale
General Manager Mike Hayes
Originally from the East End of Long Island, Mike moved to Telluride sight unseen in 2010 for a winter season in the mountains. Upon arrival, Mike spent his first few winters working for Telluride Ski Resort during the day, and the evenings at the New Sheridan Chop House. Taking an interest in home brewing, he swapped his apron for rubber boots and carharts working alongside Sam Enders at Telluride Brewing Company. After six years of brewing beer and eight years of restaurant service, it was time to make the jump to something new and exciting and combine both skill sets here at the Stronghouse.
If he isn't at the pub, Mike spends most of his time outside floating wild rivers, mountain biking, snowboarding, and camping with friends. And, of course, a 4-pack of Stronghouse beer always comes along on any of his adventures!
Favorite Beer: Honey Ginger Blonde Ale
Owner Victoria Cook Chapus
One summer in the early ‘90s Victoria Chapus arrived in Telluride and fell in love with with the town and the people. After many years of being a part-time resident, running the trails and skiing the mountain, she had a vision to transform the historic 1892 Stronghouse building into a brew pub. “I wanted to preserve this piece of Telluride history. I wanted it to feel like old Telluride.” says Chapus. “This building was always part of the fabric of town. My goal was to make the brewery just as much a part of the community.”
Favorite Beer: Wrong Way IPA
