Exeter Could Get First Brewery

An entrepreneur wants to build Exeter's first brewery.

Stratham resident Joe Berwanger filed paperwork to build the Neighborhood Beer Company at 156 Epping Rd. His plan is subject to approval by the Zoning Board of Adjustment on Dec. 17.

Why Exeter?

"(Portsmouth) is very busy," Berwanger said. "Epping is starting to boom a bit, but not much is going on in Exeter. Putting together a local brewery ... makes sense."

Berwanger spent the last few years in Chicago, where he helped revive Baderbräu Brewing Company. He said he's well acquainted with New Hampshire's brewery scene.

He plans to brew German ales such as "pale, amber and seasonal higher gravity beers," he said. Bottles and growlers will be sold, and there will be a tasting room. He also plans to make his beers available at local restaurants and stores.

He hopes to open the brewery by the summer.

"I think we can make it a terrific craft beer destination on the Seacoast," he said.