Bill Rittenour, Founder
Bill began making beer in 2006 soon after he earned his master’s degree in forestry from West Virginia University and his PhD in fungal biology from University of Nebraska. His special area of focus was – you guessed it – the American chestnut. He used his academic background in forestry, fungi, biochemistry and microbiology to investigate the complex science of beer brewing. With a home set-up that looked more like a laboratory than a brewery, he gained an in-depth understanding of the beer-making processes. For the next few years, Bill studied barley, wort, hops and yeast. He malted, mashed, boiled and fermented – with delicious results. In 2013, Chestnut Brew Works was born. Today, Bill’s products continue to live on under new ownership, carrying forward the quality and legacy he helped establish.
Doug Warden & Ryan Klousnitzer, Owners
In 2025, as Bill began planning for retirement, two of Halleck Pale Ale’s biggest fans, Doug and Ryan, eagerly stepped forward for the opportunity to carry the brand into its next chapter. Fortunately for them, that opportunity became a reality. Under their leadership, Chestnut Brew Works evolved into Halleck Brewing Company. As proud WVU graduates, devoted family men, and lifelong West Virginians, Doug and Ryan share a deep connection to the state and it’s people. Their vision is straightforward: preserve the exceptional quality that made Halleck a local favorite, expand thoughtfully throughout West Virginia, and proudly continue a brewing tradition that has become part of Morgantown’s identity.
