(Portland, OR) – An exciting change for Portland’s beer scene is quickly taking shape. The company that brews the beloved MacTarnahan’s Amber Ale and other craft beers is going back to its original name and will once again operate as Portland Brewing Company, beginning in February 2013.
The main change for consumers will be that the company, its beers and packaging will once again proudly carry the Portland Brewing Company name. Beer drinkers will still see the company’s flagship brew – MacTarnahan’s Amber Ale – continue, along with many new offerings.
Head brewer Ryan Pappe talks about his excitement around going back to Portland Brewing. “We’re excited to take a new direction that celebrates our past and sets the stage for our future as Portland Brewing Company,” Pappe said. “We brewed our first beer back in 1986 and our commitment to brewing great beer has never changed. Our consumers can expect their favorite beers to continue, and will love and be surprised by some of the new brews Portland Brewing has in store for them.”
History of Portland Brewing Company: Portland Brewing Company was a pioneer of the Portland craft beer movement, dating back to 1986 when the company was founded by Fred Bowman and Art Larrance, high school friends whose dream it was to start their own brewery. Since opening its doors in January of 1986, Portland Brewing Company quickly evolved and grew. 1992 saw the introduction of MacTarnahan’s Amber Ale – the company’s flagship and most popular brew to this day. In 1998, Robert “Mac” MacTarnahan, a shareholder in the group, purchased the debt of Portland Brewing Company. To honor this, Portland Brewing Company developed MacTarnahan’s branded labels. In 2004, Pyramid Breweries purchased Portland Brewing Company, and the company has operated as MacTarnahan’s Brewing Company since that time.
The company’s rich history played a big role in the decision to evolve from MacTarnahan’s back to Portland Brewing Company. As a thriving local brewery and an active member of the community, Portland Brewing reinforces its place as an important part of the brewing fabric of Portland.
“Portland Brewing Company has so much history, so going back to our original name is another way for us to celebrate our connection to the Portland community, while developing our future,” said Ryan Daley, brand manager for Portland Brewing Company. “As we grow and bring our beers to consumers in new markets, they’ll be able to see our name and immediately appreciate its inherent quality. Portland sets the standard for great craft beer.”
