August Schell Brewing Company

August Schell Brewing Company

August Schell Brewing Company logo

The August Schell Brewing Company is a historic brewery located in New Ulm, Minnesota. Founded in 1860 by August Schell, it is the second-oldest family-owned brewery in the United States, known for its traditional German-style beers and commitment to quality brewing practices.

History

The brewery was established by August Schell, a German immigrant who settled in New Ulm, a town with a significant German-American population. Schell, along with his business partner Jacob Bernhardt, began brewing beer to cater to the local community's taste for traditional German lagers.

Schell Brewery in New Ulm, Minnesota

In its early years, the brewery faced numerous challenges, including the Dakota War of 1862, which threatened the town and its businesses. Despite these difficulties, the brewery persevered and expanded its operations.

Expansion and Innovation

By the late 19th century, the August Schell Brewing Company had become a prominent regional brewery. The introduction of new brewing techniques and equipment allowed the company to increase production and diversify its product offerings.

August Schell Brewery in 1884

The brewery continued to thrive into the 20th century, surviving the challenges of Prohibition by producing "near beer" and soft drinks. After the repeal of Prohibition, the brewery resumed full-scale beer production and continued to innovate with new beer styles and brewing methods.

The Schell Family Legacy

The Schell family has maintained ownership of the brewery for over 160 years, passing down the tradition of brewing excellence through six generations. Each generation has contributed to the brewery's growth and adaptation to changing market demands.

Schell Mansion

The Schell Mansion, located on the brewery grounds, is a testament to the family's enduring legacy and commitment to the community. The mansion, along with the brewery, is a popular tourist destination, offering tours and tastings to visitors.

Beer Production

The August Schell Brewing Company is renowned for its wide range of beers, including traditional German lagers, pilsners, and seasonal brews. The brewery emphasizes the use of high-quality ingredients and traditional brewing techniques to produce beers that honor its German heritage.

The brewery's flagship beer, Schell's Deer Brand, is a classic example of a German-style lager, known for its crisp, clean taste and balanced flavor profile. In addition to its core lineup, the brewery produces a variety of specialty and seasonal beers, showcasing its creativity and commitment to innovation.

Related Pages

• Beer in the United States
• List of breweries in Minnesota
• German-American culture