Meet The Brewer: Mike McAllister of McAllister Brewing Company

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 [email protected].

McAllister Brewing Company opened in North Wales in December of 2018, with a 8 bbl system. Mike McAllister is the co-owner and head brewer of McAllister Brewing Company. Read more to find out how he was introduced to craft beer, his favorite beer to drink, how he got started as a brewer, and more!

What was your introduction to craft beer?

I guess my first intro to craft beer was in college. While I mostly drank the usual Natty Light, I dabbled in some local craft beers as well.

How did you get started as a brewer?

I began brewing beer in college to quench my friends’ thirst. I brewed on a small scale on my dad’s porch. I had to brew a few times a week to keep up with the demand.

What style allows you to be the most creative, and why?

While brewing IPAs allows for a lot of variety, I feel that brewing more traditional styles allows me to be more creative. I am able to put my own spin on beers that have been around for years.

mike brewing
Mike McAllister brewing. Photo courtesy of McAllister Brewing Company.

What was the first beer you ever brewed, and what did you learn from it?

The first beer I ever brewed was a traditional brown ale, actually, it is our First Love Brown Ale that you can enjoy at the brewery. I didn’t master it on the first try, but when I found that perfect recipe, I stuck with it.

Where do you see the craft beer industry heading in the next few years?

While I don’t see IPAs going away any time soon, I think lagers are going to become more popular.

Describe what it’s like to be a brewer in Pennsylvania.

It’s challenging to be a brewer in PA. There are so many choices for people when it comes to breweries that I have to make sure that we stand out and exceed expectations.

What is the inspiration behind your beer names?

I have to give credit to my wife, Kate, for this. She is usually the mastermind behind the creative naming of our beers.

What is your favorite beer to drink right now?

I am always partial to Pilsners, I’m not a huge fan of hops. Our Gras Mahen German Pilsner is my go-to beer.

What is the most important lesson you learned in the beer industry so far?

I guess the most important lesson I’ve learned is that the industry is constantly growing and changing. It is important to grow with it and not become stagnant.

Thank you to Mike for talking with us! Make sure you visit McAllister Brewing Company for all the latest beers, news, information, and special events. And also follow McAllister on FacebookInstagram, and Twitter.

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