Genesee Brew House Grand Opening
A century-old packaging center has been transformed into a beer destination.
The grand opening of the Genesee Brew House has begun to change the face of the Upper Falls neighborhood.
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The area has begun what people are calling a much needed makeover. The new facility features an exhibit depicting the history of Genesee brewing in Rochester, a tasting bar, a restaurant and live entertainment.
The brew house offers daily tours explaining the brewing process.
"Genesee Brew House has it's own pilot brewery where the brewmaster will make test batches to serve to customers which means your input as a customer here will have a major influence on whether a new beer makes it's way to store shelves."
There were some hurdles to the renovation process.
"Timing. We really wanted to open in the summertime," says Mark Minunni, Director of Engineering at Genesee.
The project faced some opposition with the demolition of a neighboring building on Cataract Street. However the building was ultimately torn down. The brew house project wasn't approved until April, giving the company just 18 weeks to get the business up and moving.
In keeping with a local brewery focused on local customers, the brew house will be donating their two dollar beer tasting charge to a different local charity every quarter.
Meanwhile, Reuters News Agency reports that North American Breweries, the company which owns Rochester's Genesee Brewery, has been put up for sale. North American Breweries CEO released a statement in response.
"It’s our policy not to comment on speculation. But what we can tell you is that the management team and employees are vested and committed to our business," said Rich Lozyniak of North American Breweries