Best Denver Breweries: A Guide to the Mile High City’s Craft Beer Scene
Denver’s craft beer scene is booming, with hundreds of breweries offering a diverse range of styles and experiences. Choosing the “best” is subjective, but several consistently rank high based on awards, popularity, and innovation. This guide highlights some of the top Denver breweries for both locals and visitors.
Exploring Denver’s Top Breweries
The Denver craft beer landscape is diverse, offering everything from traditional styles to experimental brews. Here are a few breweries that consistently receive high praise:
Great Divide Brewing Co.
A pioneer in the Denver craft beer scene, Great Divide has been brewing award-winning beers since 1994. They are known for their robust and flavorful beers, including the Yeti Imperial Stout and the Titan IPA. Their two locations offer different experiences, with the original brewery on Arapahoe Street providing a more intimate setting and the RiNo Beer Hall offering a larger space with a full food menu. Their commitment to quality and consistency has earned them a loyal following and numerous accolades.
TRVE Brewing Co.
TRVE Brewing Co. stands out with its heavy metal theme and unique approach to brewing. They specialize in mixed-culture fermentation and wild ales, resulting in complex and often tart beers. Located in the Baker neighborhood, TRVE offers a dark and atmospheric taproom experience that perfectly complements their unconventional brews. This brewery is popular among those searching for something unique and adventurous.
Ratio Beerworks
With strong ties to the punk rock music scene, Ratio Beerworks brings a lively and energetic atmosphere to the RiNo Art District. They offer a diverse range of beers, from crisp lagers to hoppy IPAs, with a focus on balance and drinkability. Their spacious outdoor patio and frequent live music events make it a popular spot for socializing and enjoying craft beer. According to Wikipedia, brewing is a complex process that involves mashing, lautering, boiling, fermenting, and packaging.
Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project
Specializing in wild and sour beers, Crooked Stave has gained a reputation for its innovative and experimental brews. Their beers are often aged in oak barrels and infused with fruits and spices, resulting in complex and flavorful creations. Their taproom offers a sophisticated and educational experience, with knowledgeable staff eager to guide visitors through their unique beer offerings. They cater to serious beer enthusiasts looking for something different.
Station 26 Brewing Co.
Housed in a former fire station, Station 26 Brewing Co. offers a relaxed and community-focused atmosphere. They are known for their well-balanced IPAs and approachable beers, making them a favorite among locals. Their Park Hill location features a spacious taproom and a large outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying a beer with friends. They focus on creating easy-drinking and flavorful beers that appeal to a wide range of palates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different types of beer commonly found in Denver breweries?
Denver breweries offer a wide range of beer styles, including IPAs, lagers, stouts, sours, and Belgian-style ales.
Are there any breweries in Denver with food?
Yes, many Denver breweries offer food, ranging from small snacks to full menus. Great Divide’s RiNo Beer Hall, for example, has a full menu.
What are some breweries located in the RiNo Art District?
Ratio Beerworks and Great Divide (RiNo Beer Hall) are both located in the popular RiNo Art District.
Are there family-friendly breweries in Denver?
Many breweries are family-friendly, but it’s always a good idea to check their specific policies and amenities before visiting.
Do Denver breweries offer tours?
Some breweries offer tours, providing insight into the brewing process. Check the brewery’s website or contact them directly for tour schedules and availability.
Summary
Denver’s craft beer scene is thriving, with a diverse range of breweries catering to all tastes. From pioneers like Great Divide to innovators like TRVE Brewing and Crooked Stave, there’s a brewery for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring Denver’s breweries is a must-do for any beer enthusiast.
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