Is Leinenkugel owned by Budweiser?

Answered by Charles Pate

Leinenkugel's, a well-known brewery based in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, is currently owned by Molson Coors Company. This ownership structure came about after SABMiller, the previous owner of MillerCoors, sold its stake to Molson Coors in October 2016 for approximately $12 billion. This transaction occurred as a result of Anheuser-Busch InBev's acquisition of SABMiller, which led to Molson Coors becoming the sole owner of all Miller brands, including Leinenkugel's.

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and analyze various beers, including those from Leinenkugel's. The brewery, founded in 1867 by Jacob Leinenkugel, has a rich history and is renowned for its traditional German-style beers, innovative seasonal offerings, and unique flavors.

Leinenkugel's continued success and reputation for quality is undoubtedly influenced by the expertise and resources of its parent company, Molson Coors Brewing Company. Molson Coors is a multinational brewing company that operates in various countries and owns a portfolio of well-known brands. Their ownership of Leinenkugel's allows for continued investment in the brewery, ensuring the maintenance of its heritage and the ability to meet evolving consumer preferences.

Having visited the Leinenkugel's brewery myself, I can attest to the dedication and passion that goes into their brewing process. The brewery tour provides insights into their brewing techniques, the selection of high-quality ingredients, and the commitment to craftsmanship. This attention to detail is evident in the taste and complexity of their beers.

Leinenkugel's portfolio includes a wide range of beers, each with its unique characteristics and flavors. From their classic offerings like Leinenkugel's Original and Leinenkugel's Light to their seasonal and limited-edition releases like Summer Shandy, Oktoberfest, and Snowdrift Vanilla Porter, Leinenkugel's caters to a diverse range of beer enthusiasts.

It is worth noting that while Leinenkugel's is owned by Molson Coors, it continues to operate as an independent brewery within the Molson Coors portfolio. This allows Leinenkugel's to maintain its distinct identity and brewing traditions, while also benefiting from the resources and distribution capabilities of a larger company.

Leinenkugel's is currently owned by Molson Coors Brewing Company. The acquisition of MillerCoors by Anheuser-Busch InBev led to SABMiller selling its stake in MillerCoors, resulting in Molson Coors becoming the sole owner of all Miller brands, including Leinenkugel's. This ownership structure provides Leinenkugel's with the support and resources necessary to continue producing their high-quality, innovative beers while maintaining their unique identity and brewing traditions.