Welcome to our “Meet The Brewer” series! Where we interview brewers in Pennsylvania, from breweries small to large. Let us know if you know anyone who should be featured, email us at info@breweriesinpa.com.
Pilger Ruh Brewing first opened its doors in July of 2021 at 213 N Centre Street in Pottsville, PA. Pilger Ruh started in the summer of 2017 when owners Tyler Budwash, Anthony Deppen, Conlan Budwash, along with other friends, started homebrewing together. They joined the beer festival circuit and received great reviews from consumers all over the state. This propelled them towards the commercial side of brewing.
Conlan Budwash is the Co-Owner and head brewer of Pilger Ruh Brewing. He has brewed at Snitz Creek for the last 4 years, worked at Troegs Brewing Company for the last 5 years, and graduated from the Brew Science course through HACC. Read more to find out how his introduction to craft beer, where he sees the craft beer industry heading, and more!
What was your introduction to craft beer?
I’d say my introduction to craft beer was as soon as I turned 21. I was going to my local beer store constantly checking to see what was new. That eventually turned into my first breweries which were Troegs and Appalachian.
How did you get started as a brewer?
I got started as a brewer back in 2017 when the rest of our group got together one day at my house and did a beer while we shared some other quality beers from other breweries. That then became a Sunday tradition as we then got into the festival circuit a couple of months after that.
What style allows you to be the most creative, and why?
I’d say sours, I feel like it gives you the option to explore more than any other style as far as fruits and other adjuncts go, plus they sell like crazy.
What was the first beer you ever brewed, and what did you learn from it?
I think the first beer at homebrew level was an IPA, I learned how key water was and sanitation.
Where do you see the craft beer industry heading in the next few years?
I see the industry already coming full circle. I love how popular pilsners, lagers, and other classic styles are becoming again, I’m here for the milktubes too.
Describe what it’s like to be a brewer in Pennsylvania.
I love being a brewer in Pennsylvania. This state is great, rich in history and quality of product top to bottom.
What is the inspiration behind your beer names?
The beer names really come from everywhere, we have an entire notepad filled with them. They vary from movies, TV shows, and just some dumb stuff we came up with ourselves after a night out.
What is your favorite beer to drink right now?
My favorite beer right now is tough to call, that varies on style, but give me any beer from Human Robot/ Ever Grain/ Hidden River/ Troegs and I’ll be happy.
What is the most important lesson you learned in the beer industry so far?
After just recently opening our doors, I’d say balancing out your work schedule and life schedule. I’m still trying to get it together, but it’s getting easier. Also, mental health is key.
