Bull Jagger, Maine’s first and only all-lager craft brewery, announced Wednesday that its owners are parting ways and the brewery is for sale.

The brewery, a four-barrel system owned by Tom Bull and Allan Jagger in Portland’s Riverside Industrial Park, sold its first beer on Oct. 19, 2011.

Additional Photos Portland Lager was the first of four brews produced by Bull Jagger since it started operating in late 2011. Courtesy photo

Over the next year, Bull, the head brewmaster, quickly produced four distinct styles of beer in bottles that he liked to call “an honest pint.”

The Portland Lager, a traditional, German-style Helles beer, was first. Then came a chocolaty Baltic Porter with notes of roasted coffee; Big Claw Pilsner, sales of which helped fund the Lobster Institute at the University of Maine; and Dirigo Crimson Lager, an Oktoberfest-style marzen.

The beers are sold from Kittery to Bar Harbor, and west to Fryeburg.

The closure was announced on the brewery’s Facebook page: “Bull and Jagger are going their separate ways, and under the circumstances, we have no choice but to close the company. In the coming weeks, we will have fresh beer to package and sell. Our lagers are and will be available in Maine through our distributor, retailers, and to the public while supplies last.”

The Facebook post also said that Bull, who could not be reached for comment, has been asked by the owners of the Big Claw brand to work with another brewer to keep Big Claw Pilsner in production.

“After the brewery is sold, Tom will regroup and continue to pursue the passion that made him Maine’s 1st all lager craft brewer,” the post said. “Until then, enjoy our local lagers and keep supporting your local craft beers and beer sellers.”

Meredith Goad can be contacted at 791-6332 or at:

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