Allagash Brewing Co. used more than two million pounds of Maine-grown grain in 2025, marking a major milestone in the Portland-based brewer's long-standing commitment to Maine agriculture.
The annual series of events, themed this year as "Deep Roots and Cold Pours," is organized by the Maine Brewers’ Guild and showcases Maine beer and the hospitality industry that supports it.
The head of the Maine Brewers' Guild warns that the ever-changing trade landscape is "creating a climate of chaos," while the Maine State Chamber of Commerce chief is worried about the "double-punch" of tariffs and a weakening U.S. labor market.
“In many cases Maine’s breweries have already seen costs rise as a result of the ongoing tariff negotiations,” Sarah Bryan, head of the Maine Brewers' Guild, told Mainebiz.
Repeating a move from his first term, President Trump on Monday signed two proclamations imposing a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports from all countries.
Allagash Hop Water, being sold in six packs of 12-ounce cans at at the brewer's Portland tasting room, is brewed with water from Sebago Lake plus sweet orange peel, coriander and two varieties of hops.
Gneiss Brewing Co., which specializes in German-inspired wheat beers, is selling its last few cases and kegs. The brewery has had to deal with numerous business challenges, and the owner says, "We can no longer stress ourselves."