Yuengling, Nation's Oldest Brewer, Eyes Return To Connecticut

Yuengling beer may soon be available again in Connecticut, according to the Connecticut Beer Wholesalers Association.

The beer was available in Connecticut until 1996 when the brewer's capacity was inadequate to meet demand. Yuengling, based in Pottsville, Pa., withdrew from Connecticut and New England markets and focused on its core markets.

Since then it has expanded production capacity and has begun to move back into old markets. The beer went on sale in Massachusetts in March.

Jude Malone, executive director the Connecticut Beer Wholesalers Association, said distributors that handled Yuengling before its departure from the state retained the right to carry it upon its return. Yuengling, however, wanted to be able to make contracts with new wholesalers, she said.