As Pennsylvania legislators have reconsidered and amended the state’s liquor laws in recent years, in many ways becoming more craft friendly, Neshaminy Creek Brewing Co. has capitalized on these unanticipated changes. Its owners have had to move quickly and resourcefully to adapt—several times in just five years of operation—but in doing so have created a more visible presence for the brand in the local community and a broader, more diversified base for the business.
“The laws have changed so much in Pennsylvania,” says Neshaminy Creek Co-owner and Head Brewer Jeremy Myers. “It’s really changed what we’re doing versus the original intent of the brewery.”
While Neshaminy Creek currently operates two locations, including a new full-service restaurant and taproom in a neighboring town, it was originally planned as strictly a production brewery. Its owners applied for a TTB Brewery Notice in November 2010 and began operations on June 1, 2012. However, several months earlier (in late December 2011), Pennsylvania state law was amended to do away with the so-called “case law,” which specified that off-premise distribution of beer could only be sold in quantities of a case or more and only from a licensed distributor. Beer could now be sold in any quantity for off-premise consumption, including single bottles, six-packs, and growler fills.