Evil Genius Beer. Co. out of Fishtown has acquired 21st Amendment Brewery as it aims to revive the recently-shuttered San Francisco-based national brand, writes Michael Tanenbaum for PhillyVoice.
21st Amendment Brewery had been one of the pioneers of the craft beer movement in the United States over the last couple decades. However, after years of financial hardship, the brand had to cease its operations back in November 2025.
Evil Genius Beer Co. is now the owner of 21st Amendment Brewery’s California production facility, as well as its national distribution rights.
“Evil Genius and 21st Amendment share the same values and story, rooted in independence and having fun,” Evil Genius co-founder Luke Bowen said in a statement.
While the acquisition is still in its early stages, 21st Amendment’s best-known beers, such as the Hell or High Watermelon and Brew Free! or Die IPA are already back on the shelves for customers to buy.
Founded in 2000, 21st Amendment is credited for helping launch the trend of craft brewers using art and storytelling to promote their branding and packaging, helping it become one of the top 50 craft brewers in the nation.
However, like many within the craft beer industry, it was hit with declining sales and high operating costs, leading to its closure.
Read more about Evil Genius’ revival of 21st Amendment Brewery at PhillyVoice.
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