The Portsmouth Brewery - Craft Beer in Portsmouth, New Hampshire

📜 Short History:

The Portsmouth Brewery, located in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a significant part of the American craft beer history. It was established in 1991 by Peter Egelston, making it New Hampshire's first brewpub. The brewery is housed in a brick building that dates back to 1809, adding to its historical charm.

Peter Egelston, a former school teacher, had initially entered the brewing industry in 1987 when he and his sister Janet Egelston-Cichy took over a failing brewery in Northampton, Massachusetts, and turned it into the successful Northampton Brewery.

In 1991, Egelston decided to branch out and opened the Portsmouth Brewery, bringing the concept of a brewpub to New Hampshire. The brewery quickly became popular for its wide range of craft beers and its food menu.

In 1993, Egelston purchased the nearby Frank Jones Brewing Company's assets at an auction, which he used to establish the Smuttynose Brewing Company, a sister company to the Portsmouth Brewery.

The Portsmouth Brewery has been known for its innovative and experimental approach to brewing. In 2007, it gained international attention for releasing Kate the Great, a Russian Imperial Stout, which was named one of the best beers in America and the world by Beer Advocate.

Today, the Portsmouth Brewery continues to be a popular destination for both locals and tourists, known for its quality beers, food, and welcoming atmosphere.