The Top 10 Pennsylvania Craft Beer News Stories of 2021

While reflecting back on 2021, so much has happened in the PA craft beer industry. With many breweries opening, a few closing, the industry coming out of the pandemic, and so much more, this year has brought a lot to talk about.

As we have done the past few years, we have a list of the top 10 PA craft beer news stories. Check out how these compare to the top 10 from 2019, and the top 10 from 2020.

As the leading voice in PA craft beer, we have stayed on top of it all. Below is a list of the top 10 news items we shared on BreweriesInPA.com. The list is based on page views for the year, starting with the most viewed news article.

1. UPDATE; Tired Hands Address Stories Of Misconduct In Now Deleted Social Media Post

Back in May, Tired Hands Brewing was accused of misconduct after Brienne Allan asked a simple question: “What sexist comments have you experienced?”

The brewery addressed the accusations in a post that has since been removed from social media. Tired Hands then announced that owner and founder Jean Broillet would step down from daily operations.

2. It Appears Other Half Brewing Files License For Former Goose Island Brewery In Philadelphia

In July, a license filing on the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board public database appeared to be linked to Other Half Brewing for a space in Philadelphia. Since the initial discovery, Other Half has confirmed that they will be opening a brewing location in Philadelphia.

3. The Top 10 Breweries In Pennsylvania In 2021 According To Untappd

Are you an Untappd fanatic? Frantically checking in the latest beer purchase as soon as it touches your lips? If so, you probably want to see how breweries in Pennsylvania stack up against each other through the app.

4. Pennsylvania Lifts Mask Mandate For Restaurants And Breweries In Accordance With CDC Guidelines

As of May 13, 2021, the CDC officially eliminated mask mandates for individuals who are fully vaccinated for most indoor and outdoor activities. Governor Wolf of Pennsylvania stated, “today’s CDC guidelines automatically go into effect in Pennsylvania”.

5. Why Are Breweries Intentionally Pouring Glasses Full Of Foam?

Side pull taps arrived at many breweries in PA this year, and with them came the “Milk Pour”. What is the milk pour? Read more about them here. You can also read all about the “side pull tap” that pours them here.

6. REPORT: Gas Explosion At Victory Brewing Taproom In Kennett Square

Back in January 2021, there was a reported gas explosion at Victory Beer’s taproom in Kennett Square, PA. A spokesperson for Victory says the taproom was closed for the day, and no customers or employees were in the building at the time, and no injuries were reported. The brewery has not reopened the taproom in 2021.

7. Dancing Gnome Plans Expansion Of Brewing Operations To New Location

Dancing Gnome owner Andrew Witchey confirmed in April that the expansion was taking place, with plans to open by the end of the year. The brewery opened the brand new 9,000 sq/ft taproom in October, at 1025 Main Street in Sharpsburg.

8. The Side Pull Tap… What Is It And Why Should We Care?

Side Pull taps took Pennsylvania by storm in 2021. For those who don’t know, a side pull draft beer faucet (or Czech beer faucet) is used to control the flow of beer to create a creamy head, which is the traditional way of enjoying a Czech pilsner. Learn more about them here!

9. Pennsylvania Eases Covid Restrictions On Bars, Restaurants and Breweries Effective April 4th

An announcement by Governor Tom Wolf eased restrictions on bars, restaurants, and breweries as of April 4th, 2021. Bar service resumed, alcohol service without the purchase of food, increased dining, and more were some of the major impacts.

10. Tröegs Brewing Expected To Release “Double Nugget Nectar” Thursday January 21st

Troegs introduced a new offering for 2021 in “Double Nugget Nectar”. News of the project was first teased by the brewery over social media back in December of 2020. Clocking in at 9.5% ABV, is a jacked-up version of their ever-popular Nugget Nectar. This limited beer was so popular it sold out in record timing. Due to its success, the brewery has promised to bring it back around in 2022, with wide distribution to their retail partners.