Craft Breweries in Central Pennsylvania: A Comprehensive Guide Central Pennsylvania has emerged as a vibrant hub for craft beer enthusiasts, boasting a rich tapestry of breweries that blend tradition with innovation. From historic establishments to cutting-edge microbreweries, the region offers a diverse and exciting craft beer scene that continues to evolve and expand. This comprehensive guide will take you on a journey through Central PA’s craft brewing landscape, exploring its history, notable breweries, unique flavors, and the culture that surrounds this thriving industry.

Historical Context

The brewing tradition in Central Pennsylvania dates back to the early days of American history. Perhaps the most iconic example of this rich heritage is D.G. Yuengling & Son, established in 1829 in Pottsville. As America’s oldest operating brewing company, Yuengling set the stage for a region that would become deeply intertwined with beer culture. However, the modern craft beer movement in Central PA truly gained momentum in the 1990s. This period saw the establishment of several breweries that would become cornerstones of the local craft beer scene. Notably, Appalachian Brewing Company, founded in 1994 in Harrisburg, was among the pioneers that helped revitalize the region’s brewing tradition.

(See our article: Unearthing the History of Harrisburg Brewing: From Barnitz to Troegs)

The Craft Beer Boom

In recent years, Central Pennsylvania has experienced a significant surge in craft brewery openings, mirroring a national trend. This growth has been particularly noticeable since the mid-2010s, with new breweries popping up in cities, small towns, and even rural areas across the region. The increase in craft breweries has been driven by several factors:

1. Consumer Demand: A growing appreciation for unique, locally-produced beers has fueled the expansion of the craft beer market.
2. Legislative Changes: Pennsylvania’s laws regarding brewery operations and distribution have become more favorable to small-scale producers.
3. Tourism: The rise of beer tourism has encouraged the development of brewery trails and tasting experiences.
4. Community Focus: Many breweries have positioned themselves as community gathering spaces, offering more than just beer.

Notable Breweries in Central PA

Central Pennsylvania boasts a diverse array of breweries, each with its own unique character and specialties. Here are some standout establishments:

Tröegs Brewing Company (Hershey)

Founded in 1996, Tröegs has become one of the most recognized names in Pennsylvania craft beer. Known for their innovative approach and quality brews, Tröegs offers a range of year-round and seasonal beers. Their Nugget Nectar, an Imperial Amber Ale, has gained cult status among craft beer aficionados.

Appalachian Brewing Company (Harrisburg)

As one of the oldest craft breweries in the region, Appalachian Brewing Company (ABC) has played a significant role in shaping Central PA’s beer scene. With multiple locations across the area, ABC offers a wide variety of beers, including their popular Hoppy Trails IPA and Susquehanna Stout. They also produce their own line of craft sodas, appealing to non-alcoholic beverage enthusiasts.

Otto’s Pub and Brewery (State College)

Established in 2002, Otto’s has become a staple of the State College community. Known for their diverse beer selection and quality pub fare, Otto’s embodies the brewpub concept, offering a full dining experience alongside their craft brews.

(See our article: Otto’s Pub and Brewery Review)

Axemann Brewery (Bellefonte)

One of the newer additions to the Central PA brewing scene, Axemann opened its doors in 2020. Despite its recent establishment, Axemann has quickly gained recognition for its well-crafted beers and unique location in a former axe factory.

Victory Brewing Company (Downingtown)

While technically on the eastern edge of Central PA, Victory’s influence on the region’s beer culture is undeniable. Founded in 1996, Victory has grown into one of the largest craft breweries in Pennsylvania, known for beers like Prima Pils and Golden Monkey.

Emerging Breweries and Trends

The craft beer scene in Central PA continues to evolve, with new breweries regularly entering the market. Some emerging trends include:

1. Farm Breweries: Establishments like Hop Hill Brewing in Bethlehem are incorporating locally-sourced ingredients and embracing a farm-to-glass ethos.
2. Nanobreweries: Smaller operations like Cartel Brewing & Blending in Lancaster are focusing on limited batch, experimental brews.
3. Sour and Wild Ales: Following national trends, many Central PA breweries are exploring sour beer styles and wild fermentation techniques.
4. Craft Lagers: There’s a growing appreciation for well-crafted lagers, with breweries dedicating more resources to these traditionally challenging styles.

Brew Trails and Beer Tourism

Central Pennsylvania has capitalized on its brewing heritage by developing several beer trails that encourage visitors to explore the region’s craft beer offerings. These trails not only promote local breweries but also contribute significantly to the area’s tourism industry.

Cumberland Valley Beer Trail

This trail features a diverse selection of breweries, wineries, and distilleries across the Cumberland Valley region. Participants can collect stamps in a passport, earning prizes as they explore different establishments. Notable stops include Molly Pitcher Brewing Company in Carlisle and Ever Grain Brewing Co. in Camp Hill.

Central Pennsylvania Tasting Trail

Offering a broader beverage experience, this trail includes breweries, wineries, cideries, and distilleries. It showcases the diverse craft beverage scene in the Happy Valley area, allowing visitors to sample a wide range of locally-produced drinks.

Brew Barons Beer Trail

Focused on the Hershey and Harrisburg area, the Brew Barons Beer Trail is an interactive experience featuring over 25 breweries and tasting locations. This trail uses modern technology, allowing participants to check in via GPS on their phones and earn prizes as they visit different locations.

(See our article: Brew Barons Beer Trail Beer App Launches)

Lancaster Ale Trail

Stretching from Bird-In-Hand to Hershey, this trail highlights 22 breweries and distilleries, offering a mix of urban and rural brewing experiences. It captures the essence of Lancaster County’s craft beer scene, from downtown microbreweries to farmhouse ales.

The Culture of Craft Beer in Central PA

The craft beer scene in Central Pennsylvania is more than just about the beverages; it’s a culture that has become deeply ingrained in the local community. This culture is characterized by several key aspects:

Community Engagement

Many breweries in Central PA serve as community hubs, hosting events, supporting local causes, and collaborating with other local businesses. For example, Desperate Times Brewery in Carlisle often partners with local food trucks and artists, creating a vibrant local ecosystem.

Educational Initiatives

Breweries like Appalachian Brewing Company offer tours and tasting sessions, educating visitors about the brewing process and beer styles. This focus on education helps cultivate a more knowledgeable and appreciative consumer base. Troegs Independent Brewing also offers tours and has won “Best Tour in the Country” four years in a row, via USA Today.

Seasonal Celebrations

Central PA breweries often align their offerings with the seasons, creating special brews for events like Oktoberfest or releasing summer ales and winter stouts. These seasonal offerings have become eagerly anticipated events for local beer enthusiasts.

Collaboration and Innovation

The spirit of collaboration is strong among Central PA breweries. It’s not uncommon to see breweries working together on special release beers or supporting each other’s events. This collaborative atmosphere fosters innovation and helps elevate the overall quality of craft beer in the region.

Economic Impact

The growth of the craft beer industry has had a significant economic impact on Central Pennsylvania. Breweries have become important employers, often revitalizing abandoned industrial spaces or bringing new life to small town main streets. The industry also supports a network of suppliers, from local farmers growing hops and barley to graphic designers creating eye-catching labels. Moreover, craft beer tourism has become a notable economic driver. Events like beer festivals and the popularity of brewery tours bring visitors to the region, supporting local hotels, restaurants, and other businesses.

Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite its growth and success, the craft beer industry in Central Pennsylvania faces several challenges:

1. Market Saturation: With the rapid increase in the number of breweries, some worry about market saturation and increased competition.
2. Distribution Hurdles: Pennsylvania’s complex alcohol distribution laws can make it challenging for smaller breweries to get their products to market.
3. Quality Control: As the number of breweries increases, maintaining consistent quality across the industry becomes more challenging.
4. Changing Consumer Preferences: The rise of hard seltzers and other alternative alcoholic beverages presents a potential threat to craft beer’s market share.

However, the outlook for Central PA’s craft beer scene remains largely positive. The industry has shown remarkable resilience and adaptability, particularly in the face of recent global challenges. Many breweries successfully pivoted to takeout and delivery models during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating their ability to innovate in difficult circumstances. Looking ahead, several trends are likely to shape the future of craft beer in Central Pennsylvania:

1. Sustainability: More breweries are likely to focus on sustainable practices, from sourcing ingredients to packaging and distribution.
2. Diversity and Inclusion: There’s a growing awareness of the need for greater diversity in brewery ownership and employment, which could lead to new perspectives and innovations in the industry.
3. Hyper-Local Focus: As consumers increasingly value local products, breweries may double down on using local ingredients and catering to local tastes.
4. Technology Integration: From online ordering systems to augmented reality experiences, technology is likely to play an increasing role in how breweries operate and interact with customers.

Conclusion

Central Pennsylvania’s craft beer scene is a vibrant, dynamic industry that reflects the region’s rich history and innovative spirit. From long-established breweries that have shaped the local beer culture for decades to exciting new ventures pushing the boundaries of what craft beer can be, Central PA offers a diverse and exciting landscape for beer enthusiasts. The industry’s focus on quality, community engagement, and local identity has created a unique beer culture that goes beyond just the beverages themselves. Craft breweries have become integral parts of their communities, driving economic growth, fostering tourism, and creating spaces for people to come together. As the industry continues to evolve, facing both challenges and opportunities, one thing remains clear: craft beer has become an essential part of Central Pennsylvania’s cultural and economic fabric. Whether you’re a longtime local or a visitor exploring the region for the first time, the craft breweries of Central PA offer a taste experience that is both deeply rooted in tradition and excitingly innovative. From the historic streets of Harrisburg to the rolling farmlands of Lancaster County, there’s always another unique brew waiting to be discovered in the heart of Pennsylvania.