A Pioneer in America's Brewing Renaissance

The D.L. Geary Brewing Company was incorporated in October, 1983 by David and Karen Geary who shared the vision of producing world class products on a small scale for local and regional consumption. At that time, there were only 13 so-called microbreweries in the United States, almost all of them in California and the Pacific Northwest. In the winter of 1984, David Geary began a period of training and research in Scotland and England. With the help of Peter Maxwell Stuart, a Scottish nobleman and brewer who arranged introductions and itineraries, he worked in a half-dozen small commercial breweries from the highlands of Scotland to the south coast of England.

"After the mash, we went into the storage room where Peter Lennox made tea for the four of us. We discussed beer, sports and politics and I felt very comfortable. At one point the Laird called my name from outside and I could see George and Ian become tense about the prospect of being caught away from their duties. It surprised me somewhat. I guess I thought this whole estate was a story-book affair, but it's clear that it's a business, and a large one at that."
-David Geary - Traquair House Brewery '83

The Pale Ale Recipe

During that time, the size and design of the brewery began to take shape; and most importantly, the recipe for Geary’s Pale Ale was created using classic elements from some of Britain’s best breweries. In the summer of 1984, Karen and David Geary began the long and difficult process of creating a business plan, finding appropriate real estate, specifying equipment and raw materials, designing packaging and raising the capital necessary to begin brewing. After nearly two years of planning and effort, construction began. Equipment was ordered, contractors were hired, and the brewery was ready for its first brewing the fall of 1986. On December 10, 1986, the first pints of Geary’s Pale Ale were sold; New England’s first microbrewery had arrived.

Since then, Geary’s has increased its product line to five full time products and three seasonal specialties, all in various package sizes, and has spread distribution to thirteen states along the eastern seaboard and as far west as Ohio.

The Geary Brewing Company is recognized as a pioneer in America’s brewing renaissance and as a model of quality and excellence for the industry.

Thanks for your interest in our company. If you’re still “thirsty” for knowledge after visiting this site, we suggest you give us a call and set up an appointment for a tour! Come see Maine’s first micro and check out our store while you’re here. There are many pubs in the area that serve our products as well; and don’t forget that Maine is a “beer destination” with over 20 microbreweries and brewpubs to visit!