Lakefront Brewery, the Largest Producer of Gluten-Free Beer in the United States, Eyes Increased Distribution and a New Brand in 2026

MILWAUKEE (JANUARY 20th, 2026) – Lakefront Brewery first brewed a batch of their New Grist back in 2005. This was well before many had caught on to the craft beer craze and about 5 years before awareness surrounding celiac disease and gut health became more prevalent. New Grist was the very first certified gluten-free beer, utilizing gluten-free ingredients as opposed to removing the gluten, a method that can still leave trace amounts. In a world full of gluten, Lakefront wants customers to drink their gluten-free beers with confidence and pride, knowing they have a world-class option to enjoy. New Grist is now the #1 gluten-free beer brand in the country, distributing to 29 states, Canada, and Ukraine. Production surpassed 10,000 barrels brewed in 2025, with a 33.6% increase over the last 12 months.

“I didn’t know it back then, but we were starting something really special,” says Russ Klisch, Owner and President of Lakefront Brewery. “We receive positive comments about our gluten-free beers every week—sometimes more than once—and it warms my heart every single time. Not only are people finding a beer they can drink, but one they truly enjoy. That’s the most rewarding part.”

Lakefront’s gluten-free beers have won 4 Great American Beer Festival medals, and 2 World Beer Cup awards, plus numerous others throughout the years, a testament to their quality. That all started with the New Grist Pilsner style, a longtime Lakefront product, still in high demand and their most widely distributed. In July of 2024, Lakefront released their New Grist IPA, a fully-flavored gluten-free India Pale Ale, which has more than doubled in sales over the last 12 months. Next up in their gluten-free portfolio, Lakefront will be releasing their New Grist Radler, a lower alcohol low calorie beer and juice cocktail bursting with citrus flavors. Look for it on the shelves this spring.

Expanding their reach to meet the increasing gluten-free demand, Lakefront Brewery has recently added Georgia, North Carolina markets, and has expanded their footprint in Minnesota, Illinois, and New York. Lakefront is also evaluating other states to expand into.

“While I didn’t expect to end up in the health and wellness business,” says Klisch, “I’m happy to be here and will continue to raise the standards for those with gluten intolerances.”

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.