‘Father of the craft beer movement’ in the U.S. dies at 80

‘Father of the craft beer movement’ in the U.S. dies at 80

SONOMA, California – Jack McAuliffe, co-founder of New Albion Brewing Company, and widely recognized as a founding father of America’s craft beer revolution has died.

A True Craft Beer Pioneer, Jack McAuliffe Dies at Age 80

One of the very first American craft brewers, Jack McAuliffe, died at his home in Arkansas on Tuesday, July 15, 2025 at the age of 80. He is credited with starting Sonoma, California’s New Albion Brewing in 1976. His contribution to the beer world we know today was immense.  “Jack’s place among United States craft brewers as a change maker and inspiration will be a part of the beer world for generations,” said Renee DeLuca, Jack’s daughter, who …