Coming Soon: MannKind Brewing

Leland’s latest microbrewery looks forward to serving the classics (and more).

STORY BY JOE JANCSURAK PHOTOS BY MANNKIND BREWING

When Leland’s third brewery opens later this summer, beer fans will find a family-friendly venue serving up a large selection of classic brews. Recognizing the importance of knowing one’s audience, owners and Leland residents Jeremy and Cassie Mann aim to satisfy the tastes of Leland’s retirement-age population and millennial parents, a demographic that includes the Manns.

With that in mind, lagers, ales and Belgian beers will be the majority of MannKind’s 12-tap system. Trendy and hoppy IPAs and a selection of wines will round out the offerings, along with a 3,000-square-foot food-truck/family-friendly and dog-friendly outdoor area.

The Manns first became interested in craft brewing before marrying 15 years ago. “We knew right away that the craft brewing community was something that we wanted to be a part of,” said Jeremy, who has been a home brewer for five years. “Then, when we moved from Bethlehem, PA, to Leland two-and-half years ago, we knew this was the place where that would happen.”

Helping to make that possible, said Jeremy, will be head brewer Alexis Scrivani, who has a degree in Fermentation Science from Appalachian State University “and a strong background when it comes to producing excellent beers.” Scrivani’s assistant brewer will be Jake Stevens. Meanwhile, Jeremy and Cassie are preparing themselves for certification through the Cicerone program, which provides beer professionals with the education and knowledge necessary for effectively serving their customers and making recommendations.

As for food options and events, “we’re in talks with local vendors about quick delivery options and food-truck options,” Jeremy said. “We’re also planning events featuring local musicians, comedians and trivia hosts.”

While the challenges that come with opening a new business, raising a family and

tending to their day jobs—dental hygienist for Cassie and electric utility project manager for Jeremy—are daunting, local support has been amazing, Jeremy said.

“With our day jobs, new-business tasks and family, we’re looking at 16 to 20-hour days,” he said. “What’s been shocking and pleasantly surprising is how helpful other brewery owners and their employees have been. We look forward to the day when we can return the generosity and pay it forward to new and aspiring brewery owners, and we look forward to joining Leland’s growing small business community and supporting as many local businesses as we can.”

For updates on the brewery’s progress and opening plans, readers can follow MannKind on social media @mannkindbrewing and www.mannkindbrewing.com. Cheers!