Upper Hudson Valley Beer

Craig Gravina and Alan McLeod trace the brewing history of New York's Upper Hudson Valley and Capital District. The authors examine how Dutch settlers established the region as a brewing center in the 1600s, a role that persisted through the eighteenth century despite two major wars. The narrative highlights the impact of the Erie Canal, which helped transform Albany into a North American beer capital where Albany Ale reached global markets. The text covers the industry's decline during Prohibition and the subsequent revival by breweries such as Beverwyck and Stanton. It also details the modern craft brewing renaissance that began in the 1980s, featuring establishments like Newman's, C. H. Evans, Shmaltz, and Chatham Brewing. This work suits readers interested in regional American history and the evolution of alcoholic beverages. It does not provide recipes or tasting notes for home brewers. The book functions as a historical record rather than a practical guide. Gravina brings his expertise as a beer scholar to this sudsy story, offering a clear account of local traditions. The text remains focused on the specific geographic area and its industrial past. Readers seeking contemporary brewing techniques will find limited utility in these pages. The authors present a straightforward chronology of production and trade. This volume serves those who wish to understand the roots of the current craft beer movement in this specific part of New York.