Yuengling Brewery - Pottsville, PA

Ok ok, I know. This isn't a microbrewery. In fact, the beer is just OK but I thought I'd mention Yuengling because it is, after all, America's oldest brewery. It has been around since 1829, and has been ran by the same family for the whole time. That in itself is admirable. This picture shows not the actual brewery but the building Yuengling used to make ice cream during prohibition.

During prohibition, Yuengling survived by making ice cream (in building shown in picture here above), near-beer, and porter for which you could actually get a prescription from your doctor! It was said yo be good for pregnant women. I do personally believe it. Also, when prohibition ended, they supposedly had a bunch of beer suddenly and magically ready... In fact, they immediately shipped a truck-load of it to president FDR...

The tour is entertaining although they hold the corn up to show every one, as if they were proud of having it as a key ingredient. For beer amateurs, I have to make it clear that corn is considered an adjunct, that is something you add in the recipe to save on the cost. In other words, you "add junk". Miller does it, Coors does it (Bud uses rice) and so do most national brands. But the fact that the tour guide holds a jar of it up proudly and shows it to you on the tour is laughing matter to me... If you're going to use corn to cut cost and produce lower quality beer, at least don't brag about it!

Yuengling beers are very popular on the east coast though, and they still beat the big brand competition. They even recently opened a second brewery down in Tampa, Florida. Their porter is alright, and so is their black and tan which is a blend of the porter and their "premium" brew.


I'm not exactly crazy about their beers, but if it's that or the big ugly national brands, I'll pick a Yuengling any day. Also, they have a great gift shop with lots of cool, merchandise. Overall, I'd recommend checking it out if you have a chance. it may not be the best beer you've had, but it's a fun visit. Besides, as I said, it is America's oldest brewery, and yes: you do get a couple of free beers at the end of the tour!


D.G. Yuengling & Son, Inc.
5th & Mahantongo Sts.
Pottsville, PA 17901
Tel: (570) 622-4141
http://www.yuengling.com/