Denver, Colorado, isn’t just the Mile High City; it’s a craft beer mecca. Home to a vibrant and ever-expanding brewing scene, Denver boasts a remarkable array of breweries producing a dizzying variety of beer styles. From iconic flagship brews to innovative experimental creations, there’s a Denver beer for every palate. So, what exactly is flowing from the taps in this beer-loving metropolis? Let’s dive in.
Exploring Denver’s Diverse Beer Styles
Denver’s brewing landscape is characterized by its diversity. You’ll find breweries specializing in classic styles, while others push the boundaries of brewing with unique ingredients and techniques. This blend of tradition and innovation makes Denver a truly exciting place for beer enthusiasts.
Classic American Styles
Many Denver breweries pay homage to classic American beer styles, perfecting recipes that have stood the test of time. These beers are often the backbone of a brewery’s offerings, providing a familiar and reliable option for customers.
American Pale Ale (APA): A balanced and approachable beer, the APA is characterized by its hop aroma and flavor, often featuring citrusy or floral notes. Several Denver breweries offer exceptional APAs, showcasing the versatility of this style. Expect a medium body and moderate bitterness.
India Pale Ale (IPA): The IPA reigns supreme in the craft beer world, and Denver is no exception. From West Coast-style IPAs with their assertive hop bitterness to New England-style IPAs (NEIPAs) known for their hazy appearance and juicy hop flavors, Denver breweries cover the full spectrum of this popular style. Many breweries also experiment with different hop varieties to create unique and complex IPA profiles. The bitterness and alcohol content can vary widely depending on the specific IPA.
American Lager: While often overlooked in the craft beer scene, American lagers have found a renewed appreciation in recent years. Denver breweries are crafting clean, crisp, and refreshing lagers that are perfect for a hot day. These lagers are typically light-bodied and easy-drinking, making them a great option for those new to craft beer.
European-Inspired Brews
Denver’s brewers also draw inspiration from European brewing traditions, creating authentic and flavorful interpretations of classic styles. These beers offer a taste of Europe right in the heart of Colorado.
Pilsner: A light-bodied and refreshing lager originating from the Czech Republic, the Pilsner is known for its crisp bitterness and floral hop aroma. Several Denver breweries produce excellent Pilsners, showcasing the delicate balance and complexity of this style.
Belgian Witbier: Brewed with wheat, coriander, and orange peel, the Belgian Witbier is a refreshing and aromatic beer perfect for warm weather. Denver breweries often add their own unique twist to this classic style, using different spices and herbs to create distinctive flavor profiles.
Stout and Porter: These dark and roasty beers are popular year-round in Denver. From dry Irish stouts to rich and decadent imperial stouts, Denver breweries offer a wide range of stouts and porters to satisfy any craving. Expect flavors of coffee, chocolate, and roasted malts.
Experimental and Innovative Beers
Denver’s brewing scene is not afraid to push boundaries and experiment with new ingredients and techniques. This spirit of innovation leads to some truly unique and exciting beers.
Sour Beers: Sour beers have gained immense popularity in recent years, and Denver breweries are at the forefront of this trend. From tart and refreshing Goses to complex and funky Lambics, Denver offers a diverse range of sour beers for the adventurous palate.
Barrel-Aged Beers: Aging beers in oak barrels adds depth and complexity to the final product. Denver breweries often age stouts, barleywines, and other strong beers in bourbon, whiskey, or wine barrels, imparting unique flavors and aromas. These barrel-aged beers are often highly sought after and released in limited quantities.
Fruit Beers: The addition of fruit can add a refreshing and flavorful twist to any beer. Denver breweries often use local fruits, such as peaches and cherries, to create unique and seasonal fruit beers. These beers are often light-bodied and easy-drinking, making them a perfect option for summer.
Denver’s Iconic Breweries and Their Signature Beers
Many breweries have become synonymous with the Denver beer scene, each with its own unique identity and a lineup of signature beers. These breweries are essential stops for any beer lover visiting Denver.
Great Divide Brewing Co.
A Denver institution, Great Divide Brewing Co. has been brewing award-winning beers since 1994. Their Yeti Imperial Stout, a massive and complex beer with notes of chocolate, coffee, and caramel, is a perennial favorite. Another popular offering is the Titan IPA, a West Coast-style IPA known for its assertive hop bitterness and citrusy aroma. They were one of the pioneers in the Denver craft beer movement and continue to innovate.
Wynkoop Brewing Company
Colorado’s first brewpub, Wynkoop Brewing Company, has been a staple of the Denver beer scene since 1988. Founded by former Denver mayor John Hickenlooper (before his political career), Wynkoop is known for its quirky and experimental beers, as well as its commitment to local ingredients. They offer a wide range of beers, from traditional styles to more unusual creations.
Denver Beer Co.
With two locations in Denver, Denver Beer Co. is known for its approachable and sessionable beers. Their Graham Cracker Porter, a unique and flavorful porter with hints of graham cracker and chocolate, is a local favorite. They also offer a variety of other styles, including IPAs, lagers, and sours. They focus on creating beers that are easy to drink and enjoy, making them a popular choice for both locals and tourists.
Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project
Specializing in sour and wild-fermented beers, Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project is a must-visit for sour beer enthusiasts. Their beers are often aged in oak barrels and inoculated with wild yeasts and bacteria, resulting in complex and funky flavors. They are known for their innovative and experimental approach to brewing, pushing the boundaries of what beer can be.
TRVE Brewing Co.
Combining a love of metal music with a passion for brewing, TRVE Brewing Co. offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Their beers are often dark and intense, with names inspired by metal bands and mythology. They are known for their sour and wild-fermented beers, as well as their stouts and porters. The brewery’s atmosphere is as unique as its beers, creating a truly immersive experience.
Ratio Beerworks
Founded by members of the Denver punk rock scene, Ratio Beerworks embodies the spirit of DIY and independent brewing. Their beers are often hoppy and flavorful, with a focus on West Coast-style IPAs. They also offer a variety of other styles, including lagers, pale ales, and stouts. The brewery’s atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, making it a popular spot for music lovers and beer enthusiasts alike.
Beyond the Big Names: Discovering Hidden Gems
While the iconic breweries draw crowds, Denver’s brewing scene is also home to numerous smaller, independent breweries that offer equally impressive beers. These hidden gems are worth seeking out for a more intimate and unique experience.
Many neighborhood breweries focus on serving their local communities, offering a more personal and community-focused experience. These breweries often have a strong connection to their neighborhoods and are committed to using local ingredients whenever possible.
Exploring these smaller breweries can lead to unexpected discoveries, as they often experiment with unique ingredients and brewing techniques. Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and discover the hidden gems of Denver’s brewing scene.
Here are some excellent smaller breweries to check out:
- Cerebral Brewing
- Our Mutual Friend Brewing
- Goldspot Brewing Company
- Station 26 Brewing Co.
The Denver Beer Scene: A Community of Collaboration
One of the most remarkable aspects of Denver’s brewing scene is its collaborative spirit. Breweries often work together on special releases, sharing knowledge and resources to elevate the quality of beer across the board. This collaborative environment fosters innovation and creativity, contributing to the overall vibrancy of the Denver beer scene. Collaboration brews are popular events.
Pairing Denver Beers with Local Cuisine
Denver’s culinary scene is as diverse and exciting as its brewing scene, offering a wide range of options to pair with your favorite Denver beer. From classic pub fare to upscale dining, there’s a perfect beer and food pairing for every occasion.
For example, a hoppy IPA pairs well with spicy dishes, while a rich stout complements chocolate desserts. Experimenting with different beer and food pairings can enhance your dining experience and unlock new flavors. Many restaurants in Denver feature local beers on their menus, making it easy to find the perfect pairing.
Denver Beer Events and Festivals
Denver hosts numerous beer events and festivals throughout the year, providing opportunities to sample a wide range of beers from local and national breweries. These events are a great way to discover new breweries and try unique beers.
The Great American Beer Festival (GABF), held annually in Denver, is the largest beer festival in the United States. It attracts breweries and beer lovers from around the world, showcasing the best of American craft beer. Other popular beer events in Denver include the Collaboration Fest and the Denver Beer Fest.
Attending these events is a great way to immerse yourself in the Denver beer scene and connect with other beer enthusiasts. They offer a chance to learn about different beer styles, meet brewers, and discover your new favorite beer.
Visiting Denver Breweries: Tips for Planning Your Trip
Planning a trip to explore Denver’s breweries requires some preparation. With so many options to choose from, it’s helpful to create a plan based on your interests and preferences.
Consider the location of the breweries you want to visit, as Denver is a large city with breweries scattered throughout different neighborhoods. Transportation options include public transportation, ride-sharing services, and designated driving.
Many breweries offer tours, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process. Check the brewery’s website for tour schedules and availability. Also, be sure to check brewery websites for hours of operation. Many offer growler fills or cans to go.
The Future of Denver Beer
Denver’s beer scene continues to evolve and innovate, with new breweries opening regularly and existing breweries experimenting with new styles and techniques. The future of Denver beer is bright, with a continued focus on quality, creativity, and community.
As consumer tastes change, Denver breweries are adapting to meet the demand for new and exciting beers. The rise of non-alcoholic beers and the increased focus on sustainability are also shaping the future of the Denver beer scene. Be on the lookout for new styles and trends.
The Denver beer scene is more than just a collection of breweries; it’s a thriving community of passionate individuals dedicated to crafting exceptional beer. This community spirit will continue to drive innovation and growth in the years to come, solidifying Denver’s position as a world-class beer destination.
Notable Denver Beers to Seek Out
While personal preference reigns supreme, there are several Denver-brewed beers that consistently garner acclaim and are worth seeking out during your visit.
Yeti Imperial Stout (Great Divide): As mentioned, this is a benchmark for the style. Rich, complex, and intensely flavorful.
Graham Cracker Porter (Denver Beer Co.): A truly unique and memorable porter that stands out from the crowd.
Colorado Native Amber Lager (AC Golden): A refreshing and locally sourced lager that showcases Colorado ingredients. Although technically Golden, Co, it’s a Denver staple.
Princess Yum Yum Raspberry Kolsch (Denver Beer Co.): A light, refreshing ale that’s subtly tart and fruity, perfect for warm days.
These are just a few examples, and the best way to discover your favorites is to explore the diverse offerings of Denver’s breweries. Cheers!
What are some of the most iconic breweries in Denver that a craft beer lover should visit?
Denver boasts a vibrant and established craft beer scene, with several breweries considered iconic institutions. Among these, Great Divide Brewing Co. stands out for its award-winning beers and commitment to quality, offering a diverse range from classic IPAs to rich stouts. Another must-visit is Wynkoop Brewing Company, Denver’s oldest brewpub, known for its innovative and often experimental brews, as well as its historic building and lively atmosphere.
Beyond these stalwarts, newer but equally impressive breweries include TRVE Brewing Co., specializing in metal-inspired beers and a unique ambiance, and Cerebral Brewing, celebrated for its scientifically driven approach to brewing and nuanced flavor profiles. Exploring these breweries will provide a comprehensive taste of Denver’s diverse and innovative beer culture.
Are there any breweries in Denver known for specializing in a specific style of beer?
Yes, several Denver breweries have carved out niches for themselves by focusing on particular styles. For instance, Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project is renowned for its wild and sour ales, utilizing Brettanomyces and other unique fermentation techniques to create complex and funky beers. Meanwhile, Ratio Beerworks has gained popularity for its consistently well-executed West Coast style IPAs and approachable pale ales, appealing to a broader audience.
Additionally, some smaller breweries concentrate on specific European styles. Bierstadt Lagerhaus, for instance, focuses almost exclusively on traditional German-style lagers, using decoction mashing and other time-honored methods to create authentic and refreshing beers. This specialization allows these breweries to hone their craft and offer a curated experience for beer enthusiasts.
How can I find out about new brewery openings or special beer releases in Denver?
Staying updated on Denver’s ever-evolving beer scene requires a multi-pronged approach. Local publications like Westword and The Denver Post regularly feature articles and reviews covering new brewery openings and special beer releases. Following these publications online and subscribing to their newsletters is a great way to stay informed.
Social media is another valuable resource. Many Denver breweries actively promote their latest offerings and events on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Following your favorite breweries and local beer-focused accounts will provide real-time updates on what’s new and noteworthy in the Denver beer community. Checking websites like PorchDrinking.com dedicated to craft beer news can also be very helpful.
Are there any brewery tours or beer tasting experiences in Denver that I should consider?
Denver offers a variety of brewery tours and tasting experiences catering to different interests and budgets. Many individual breweries, like Coors Brewery in Golden, offer tours of their facilities, providing insights into the brewing process and the history of the company. These tours often include samples of their beers.
Organized beer tours, run by companies like Denver Microbrew Tour, offer a curated experience visiting multiple breweries in a single outing. These tours typically include transportation, guided tastings, and insights into the Denver beer scene. Additionally, many breweries host special events like beer and food pairings, providing a more immersive and engaging tasting experience.
What are some good neighborhoods in Denver to explore if I’m looking for a concentration of breweries?
Several Denver neighborhoods are known for their high concentration of breweries, making them ideal for a beer-focused exploration. The RiNo (River North) Art District is a prime example, boasting a vibrant mix of breweries, distilleries, and art galleries. Here, you can easily walk between several breweries, sampling a variety of styles and atmospheres.
Another excellent neighborhood is LoDo (Lower Downtown), home to Wynkoop Brewing Company and several other notable breweries. Beyond LoDo, the South Broadway (SoBo) area also offers a diverse selection of breweries and brewpubs, providing a more relaxed and less touristy experience. These neighborhoods offer easy access to multiple breweries within walking distance.
What types of beers is Denver especially known for brewing?
Denver’s brewing scene is diverse, but it’s particularly known for its excellent IPAs and stouts. Many Denver breweries have perfected the art of brewing hoppy West Coast IPAs and hazy New England IPAs, showcasing the region’s access to high-quality hops. Similarly, Denver breweries produce a wide range of stouts, from rich and creamy milk stouts to intensely flavored imperial stouts.
Beyond IPAs and stouts, Denver also has a growing reputation for sour and wild ales. Breweries like Crooked Stave have helped to put Denver on the map as a destination for these more experimental and challenging styles. The city’s altitude and climate may also play a part in producing beers that are different from other areas.
Are there any annual beer festivals or events in Denver that I should be aware of?
Denver hosts several major beer festivals and events throughout the year, attracting beer enthusiasts from around the world. The Great American Beer Festival (GABF), held annually in the fall, is the most well-known, showcasing thousands of beers from breweries across the United States. Attending GABF is a bucket-list experience for many beer lovers.
In addition to GABF, Denver also hosts the Collaboration Fest, which focuses on collaborative beers brewed by multiple breweries. There are also smaller, more localized beer festivals and events held throughout the year, often focusing on specific beer styles or celebrating the anniversary of a local brewery. These events offer a chance to sample a wide range of beers and connect with the local brewing community.