The Rohrbach Brewing Company, the oldest craft brewery in the greater Rochester area, has purchased the Young Lion brand, bringing one of Rochester’s more modern craft brands under the stewardship of one of its most established brewing institutions.
Founded in 2017, Young Lion Brewing quickly built a reputation for approachable, high-quality beer and a strong community following. The brand continued to grow until its sale in 2024. This acquisition ensures Young Lion’s recipes, identity, and legacy will continue—now backed by Rohrbach’s decades of brewing experience and production expertise.
Continuity and quality were key drivers in the transaction. Rohrbach Head Brewer Dan McCumiskey is uniquely positioned to carry the brand forward, having previously served as Head Brewer at Young Lion. His firsthand knowledge of the recipes, processes, and intent behind the beers ensures a seamless transition and consistent product for consumers.
“This is a perfect fit,” said Jen Newman, co-founder of Young Lion Brewing. “John Urlaub has been a mentor to me from Young Lion’s inception in 2017 through the day we sold the company in 2024. Seeing the brand land with Rohrbach—where it will be respected, protected, and allowed to grow—is incredibly meaningful.”
For Rohrbach, the acquisition represents both preservation and evolution: honoring a newer Rochester craft brand while extending its reach through an established brewery with deep local roots.
“In our 30 plus years of brewing beer we have always had a deep respect for the craft and knowing it all starts with our people,” said John Urlaub. “This is the same philosophy Jen Newman at Young Lion built her company on and she created a brand that is synonymous with high quality and has become a trusted local brand. It will be an honor to protect its quality, and giving the Young Lion beer the resources it deserves to thrive.”
Consumers can expect to see Young Lion beers continue to be brewed with the same recipes and standards they know—with the scale, stability, and quality that comes from joining Rochester’s oldest craft brewery.
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