Speakers

Raised in Lancaster, PA, Chris Rommel is a brewer and distiller, and for the past 12 years he has worked in various roles within the alcohol industry.  

Chris earned his bachelor’s degree in Psychology at Washington College in Chestertown, MD.  He then traveled to Munich, Germany to complete his masters in fermentation science, known as a Braumiester degree, from the world renowned Doemans Institute in 2010.  

Chris worked shortly for Yards Brewing while living in Philadelphia, PA, before accepting the Lead Brewer position at Spring House Brewing and moving back to Lancaster. Desiring to return to Philadelphia, he made the leap into distilled spirits, crafting new products and championing the barrel aging program for Philadelphia Distilling.

After a move to the renowned craft beer destination of Richmond, VA, Chris began to make his impact on the industry. He brewed for Hardywood Brewing, winning his first Great American Beer Festival Gold Medal and numerous VA brewers cup medals.

He then took the reins at Ardent brewing, winning another two GABF medals and a dozen more VA cup medals for his brews.

With a growing family Chris returned to Lancaster, and currently lives in Manheim Township with his wife and two young daughters. He actively consults within the brewing and distilling industries, and is Co-Founder of Bierhall Brewing Company, a brewery coming soon to the Lancaster area.