The Harpoon Brewery was founded on the Boston waterfront in 1986 by three Harvard classmates. The Brewery started with the three founders and one employee (a brewer); now there are over 50 employees. In New England, Harpoon's annual beer production is second only to Anheuser-Busch and is greater than any other New England specialty brewer.
All beers can be classified into two style categories, Ales and Lagers. The yeast is the main difference between the two. Ales, fermented at warmer temperatures, use an ale yeast that often yields a fruity aroma and flavor. Lagers, fermented at cooler temperatures, use lager yeast that create smooth, crisp, and clean-tasting beers.
In October 1997, the Brewery installed a new state-of-the-art bottling line, ensuring the freshest tasting beer. The Brewery hosts at least four events each year. In 1999 more than 25,000 beer lovers attended these seasonal special events.