Aurora, Illinois boasts a thriving craft beer scene that draws enthusiasts from near and far. The city’s breweries offer a diverse array of styles, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and inventive sours. Aurora’s local craft beer guide showcases over a dozen breweries and taprooms, each with its own unique character and specialties.
Visitors can embark on a flavorful journey through Aurora’s beer landscape, starting with popular spots like Brother Chimp Brewing and Hopvine Brewing Company. These establishments pride themselves on creating high-quality, innovative brews that reflect the region’s brewing heritage. Beer aficionados will appreciate the opportunity to sample limited-edition releases and seasonal offerings alongside tried-and-true favorites.
The craft beer experience in Aurora extends beyond just tasting. Many breweries offer tours, allowing guests to learn about the brewing process and the stories behind their favorite beers. With new breweries like Fox Republic Brewing Company joining the scene, Aurora continues to cement its reputation as a destination for craft beer lovers.
History of Brewing in Aurora
Aurora’s brewing history dates back to the mid-19th century. The city’s first commercial brewery, Aurora Brewing Company, opened in 1856 on River Street.
In the early 1900s, Aurora saw a brewing renaissance. Several small breweries emerged, producing lagers and ales for local consumption. The city’s German immigrant population played a significant role in shaping its beer culture.
Prohibition dealt a blow to Aurora’s brewing scene in 1920. Many breweries closed or shifted to producing non-alcoholic beverages. After Prohibition’s repeal in 1933, Aurora Brewing Company reopened, producing Aurora Beer and Aurora Draught Beer until 1939.
The mid-20th century saw a decline in local brewing. National brands dominated the market, and Aurora’s small breweries struggled to compete. This trend continued for several decades.
In the late 1990s, craft brewing began to resurge in Aurora. Two Brothers Brewing Company, founded in 1996, became a cornerstone of the city’s new beer scene. Their acquisition of the historic roundhouse in 2011 marked a symbolic return to Aurora’s brewing roots.
Today, Aurora boasts a thriving craft beer culture. New breweries continue to open, each adding its unique flavors to the city’s rich brewing tapestry. The industry now balances innovation with a deep respect for Aurora’s brewing heritage.
Aurora’s Craft Beer Scene
Aurora, Illinois boasts a vibrant craft beer scene with several local breweries and taprooms. Beer enthusiasts can explore a diverse range of styles and flavors throughout the area.
Hopvine Brewing Company, located at 4030 Fox Valley Center Drive, offers an ever-changing selection of ales. Their rotating lineup includes creative brews that cater to various tastes.
Brother Chimp Brewing, situated at 1059 W. Orchard Road in North Aurora, has earned a reputation for innovative craft beers. The brewery produces a variety of general and seasonal ales.
Aurora Tap House is another popular spot for craft beer lovers. They feature a curated selection of local and regional brews on tap.
Energy City Brewing and Fox Republic Brewing Company are two more notable craft breweries in the Aurora area. Each offers its own unique take on beer styles and flavors.
Visitors can experience Aurora’s craft beer scene through guided tours or self-guided explorations. Many breweries offer tasting flights, allowing patrons to sample multiple beers in one visit.
The local craft beer industry continues to grow, with new breweries and taprooms regularly opening. This expansion provides beer enthusiasts with an ever-increasing variety of options to enjoy in Aurora.
Top Craft Breweries in Aurora
Aurora boasts a vibrant craft beer scene with several standout breweries. These local establishments offer unique flavors, inviting atmospheres, and a dedication to quality brewing.
Two Brothers Artisan Brewing
Two Brothers Artisan Brewing is a cornerstone of Aurora’s craft beer culture. Located in the historic Two Brothers Roundhouse, this brewery combines rich history with innovative brewing techniques. Their diverse beer selection includes year-round favorites and seasonal specialties.
The Roundhouse facility features a full-service restaurant, café, and live music venue. Visitors can enjoy guided tours to learn about the brewing process and the building’s storied past.
Two Brothers is known for its commitment to sustainability, using solar power and recycling spent grain. Popular brews include the Domaine DuPage French Country Ale and the Citra Unified Hop IPA.
Hopvine Brewing Company
Hopvine Brewing Company offers a welcoming space for beer enthusiasts. Their taproom features a rotating selection of house-brewed beers, ranging from crisp lagers to bold IPAs.
The brewery’s commitment to quality is evident in their small-batch brewing process. Hopvine also serves a full food menu, pairing well with their craft beers.
Signature brews include the Fox Valley Haze IPA and the Aurora Amber Ale. The brewery hosts regular events, including trivia nights and live music performances.
Hardware Sustainable Gastropub
Hardware Sustainable Gastropub combines craft brewing with farm-to-table dining. This unique establishment focuses on sustainable practices in both its brewing and culinary operations.
The brewery produces a variety of beer styles, with an emphasis on using locally sourced ingredients. Their tap list rotates regularly, offering patrons new flavors to explore.
Hardware’s gastropub menu features dishes designed to complement their beers. The rustic, industrial-chic atmosphere adds to the overall experience.
Brother Chimp Brewing
Brother Chimp Brewing is Aurora’s newest craft brewery, quickly gaining popularity for its high-quality beers. The brewery specializes in small-batch production, allowing for experimentation and precision in their brewing process.
Their taproom offers a cozy, laid-back atmosphere perfect for sampling their latest creations. Brother Chimp focuses on traditional beer styles with modern twists.
Popular brews include their Golden Ale and IPA varieties. The brewery often collaborates with local food trucks to provide diverse dining options for visitors.
Energy City Brewing
Energy City Brewing may be small in size, but it’s big on flavor and innovation. This nanobrewery produces limited quantities of highly sought-after beers.
Known for their New England-style IPAs and fruit-forward sours, Energy City has gained a loyal following among craft beer enthusiasts. Their creative approach to brewing results in unique flavor profiles.
While they don’t have a public taproom, Energy City’s beers can be found in local bars and bottle shops. Beer releases are highly anticipated events for Aurora’s craft beer community.
Unique Beer Styles of Aurora
Aurora’s craft beer scene offers a diverse range of unique styles that showcase the city’s brewing creativity. Local breweries have mastered traditional European styles while putting their own spin on classic recipes.
Pale Lager and Amber Ale
Aurora’s breweries excel at crafting refreshing pale lagers and flavorful amber ales. Pale lagers feature a crisp, clean taste with subtle hop bitterness. Local brewers often use American hops to add citrus and pine notes.
Amber ales balance malty sweetness with moderate hop character. Aurora brewers incorporate caramel malts for a rich copper color and toasted flavor. Some incorporate local ingredients like Illinois-grown hops or honey for a regional twist.
Many Aurora taprooms offer flights to sample both styles side-by-side. This allows visitors to compare the light, crisp lagers with the more robust amber ales.
Vienna Lager
Vienna lager is a specialty of several Aurora breweries. This amber-colored lager originated in Austria but has found a second home in Illinois. Local versions feature a toasty malt flavor with subtle noble hop character.
Aurora brewers often use traditional Vienna malt as the base. Some add small amounts of darker malts for extra depth. The result is a smooth, balanced beer with notes of bread crust and light caramel.
Vienna lagers pair well with many foods. Local pubs often recommend them alongside pizzas, burgers, and other pub fare. The style’s versatility makes it popular year-round in Aurora.
German Hefeweizen
German-style hefeweizens have become a staple of Aurora’s craft beer scene. These unfiltered wheat beers showcase distinctive banana and clove flavors from special yeast strains. Local brewers stay true to tradition by using at least 50% wheat malt.
Aurora’s versions often feature a cloudy golden color and fluffy white head. Some brewers experiment with local fruits like peaches or raspberries for seasonal variants. The style’s refreshing nature makes it especially popular in summer.
Many Aurora taprooms serve hefeweizens in traditional tall, curved glasses. This presentation highlights the beer’s aroma and enhances the drinking experience.
Aurora’s Gastropub Culture
Aurora’s gastropub scene offers unique experiences combining craft beer and elevated cuisine. Local establishments showcase innovative brewing techniques and sustainable practices while serving high-quality food in historic settings.
Two Brothers Roundhouse Experience
Two Brothers Roundhouse stands as a cornerstone of Aurora’s gastropub culture. Housed in a historic railroad roundhouse, this venue blends architectural charm with culinary excellence. The brewery produces a diverse range of craft beers on-site, complementing their menu of upscale pub fare.
Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the brewing facilities, learning about the beer-making process firsthand. The spacious interior features exposed brick and original architectural elements, creating a rustic ambiance.
Two Brothers Roundhouse hosts regular events, including live music performances and beer pairing dinners. These gatherings highlight the synergy between their craft beers and chef-driven dishes.
Hardware’s Approach to Sustainability
Hardware, a sustainable gastropub in North Aurora, has quickly gained recognition for its eco-friendly practices and innovative menu. The establishment focuses on reducing its environmental impact while delivering high-quality food and beverages.
Hardware sources ingredients locally whenever possible, supporting area farmers and reducing transportation emissions. Their menu changes seasonally to reflect available produce and minimize food waste.
The gastropub’s beer selection emphasizes pale ales, crafted on-site using energy-efficient brewing equipment. Hardware also implements water conservation measures in their brewing process.
Interior design elements incorporate reclaimed materials, further emphasizing their commitment to sustainability. The gastropub’s efforts extend to composting food scraps and using biodegradable packaging for takeout orders.
Craft Beer Tasting and Taprooms
Aurora, Illinois boasts a thriving craft beer scene with several taprooms offering unique tasting experiences. The Aurora Tap House stands out as a popular destination for beer enthusiasts.
At Aurora Tap House, visitors can sample a rotating selection of craft beers from local and regional breweries. The taproom features a welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff to guide patrons through their beer choices.
Many Aurora taprooms offer tasting flights, allowing guests to try small portions of multiple craft beers. This provides an excellent opportunity to explore different styles and flavors.
Some notable craft beer styles found in Aurora taprooms include:
- Hoppy IPAs
- Rich stouts
- Refreshing wheat beers
- Seasonal specialties
Taprooms often host special events such as beer release parties, tap takeovers, and brewer meet-and-greets. These events provide unique opportunities to learn about craft beer production and taste limited-edition brews.
Many Aurora taprooms also offer food menus designed to complement their beer selections. Pairing suggestions can enhance the tasting experience and showcase the versatility of craft beers.
Visitors to Aurora’s taprooms can expect a range of environments, from industrial-chic brewery spaces to cozy neighborhood pubs. Each venue offers its own distinct atmosphere and beer selection.
Noteworthy Craft Beers
Aurora’s craft beer scene boasts several standout brews that showcase the city’s brewing prowess. These beers represent a diverse range of styles and flavors, appealing to both casual drinkers and beer aficionados alike.
Earl the Pearl Pale Ale
Earl the Pearl Pale Ale is a refreshing and hop-forward beer that has gained popularity among Aurora’s craft beer enthusiasts. This pale ale features a balanced blend of citrus and pine notes, derived from carefully selected American hops.
The beer pours a golden amber color with a frothy white head. Its aroma is a pleasant mix of grapefruit and subtle caramel undertones.
At 5.5% ABV, Earl the Pearl offers a crisp, clean finish that makes it an excellent choice for warm summer days or as a pairing with spicy dishes.
Misty’s Cream Ale
Misty’s Cream Ale is a smooth and easy-drinking beer that pays homage to the classic American cream ale style. This light-bodied brew features a pale straw color and a delicate, creamy head.
The flavor profile is characterized by subtle malt sweetness and a hint of corn, typical of the cream ale style. With an ABV of 4.8%, Misty’s Cream Ale is a refreshing option for those seeking a lighter beer experience.
Its crisp and clean taste makes it an ideal companion for barbecues or as a sessionable choice for social gatherings.
Uncle Joe’s IPA
Uncle Joe’s IPA is a bold and flavorful India Pale Ale that caters to hop lovers. This beer showcases a vibrant golden color and a robust, lingering head.
The aroma is a complex blend of tropical fruits, citrus, and pine, hinting at the hop-forward experience to come. On the palate, Uncle Joe’s IPA delivers a powerful punch of hop bitterness balanced by a solid malt backbone.
With an ABV of 6.8%, this IPA offers a full-bodied drinking experience. It pairs well with strong cheeses and spicy foods, making it a favorite among IPA enthusiasts.
Domaine DuPage French Style Country Ale
Domaine DuPage is a unique offering from Two Brothers Artisan Brewing, inspired by the bière de garde style of Northern France. This amber-colored ale boasts a rich, malty character with subtle notes of caramel and toasted bread.
The beer’s aroma is a delightful mix of sweet malt and light herbal hops. At 5.9% ABV, Domaine DuPage offers a smooth, well-balanced flavor profile that finishes with a gentle hop bitterness.
Its versatility makes it an excellent pairing for a wide range of cuisines, from roasted meats to creamy cheeses.
Pairing Food With Craft Beers
Aurora’s craft beer scene offers excellent opportunities for food and beer pairings. Local breweries and restaurants have embraced the art of combining flavors to enhance both the culinary and drinking experience.
Gillerson’s Grubbery stands out for its commitment to pairing craft beers with locally sourced ingredients. Their menu features dishes specifically designed to complement the flavors of regional brews.
When pairing, consider these general guidelines:
- Light beers pair well with light foods (salads, fish)
- Dark beers complement rich, hearty dishes (stews, grilled meats)
- Hoppy beers cut through fatty foods (burgers, fried items)
- Malty beers match well with roasted or caramelized flavors
Bulldog Ale House offers a diverse selection of craft beers alongside pub-style fare. Their menu highlights recommended beer pairings for each dish, making it easy for patrons to explore new flavor combinations.
Local breweries often host special pairing events, showcasing how their beers can elevate regional cuisine. These events provide an excellent opportunity to learn about flavor profiles and expand one’s palate.
Remember, personal taste plays a significant role in pairing. Experimentation is key to discovering your favorite combinations of Aurora’s craft beers and local dishes.
Events and Festivals
Aurora, Illinois hosts several exciting craft beer events throughout the year. Beer enthusiasts can look forward to a variety of festivals showcasing local and regional brews.
The Illinois Craft Brewers Guild convention is a highlight for the Aurora beer community. This event features workshops, keynote addresses, and networking opportunities for industry professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Seasonal festivals are popular in Aurora, with autumn being a particularly busy time for craft beer celebrations. These events often feature special releases and seasonal offerings from local breweries.
The Holiday Havoc event at the Piazza combines festive cheer with craft beer. It’s an opportunity for residents and visitors to enjoy seasonal brews while getting into the holiday spirit.
For those interested in exploring beyond Aurora, nearby cities in Illinois often host beer festivals that feature Aurora’s local breweries. These events provide a chance to sample a wide range of craft beers from across the state.
Many Aurora breweries also participate in citywide events, offering special tastings and tours. These occasions allow beer lovers to experience the local craft beer scene firsthand and meet the brewers behind their favorite drinks.
Supporting Local Breweries
Aurora, Illinois boasts a thriving craft beer scene with several local breweries to explore. Visiting these establishments directly supports small businesses and the local economy.
Many Aurora breweries offer taprooms where patrons can sample fresh beers on-site. Some popular options include Brother Chimp Brewing, Hopvine Brewing Company, and Hardware.
Purchasing to-go beer like cans, bottles, or growler fills allows customers to enjoy local brews at home while still supporting Aurora’s craft breweries. Some breweries also distribute their products to local stores and restaurants.
Attending brewery events and joining mailing lists helps patrons stay informed about new beer releases, specials, and community activities. This engagement strengthens connections between breweries and their customers.
Leaving positive reviews online and recommending local breweries to friends spreads awareness and attracts new patrons. Word-of-mouth marketing is invaluable for small businesses.
Consider purchasing brewery merchandise like t-shirts, glassware, or gift cards. These items provide additional revenue streams for local breweries beyond beer sales.
Participating in brewery tours, when offered, provides a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process while directly supporting these businesses. Some Aurora breweries may offer scheduled or private tours.
