Centennial, Colorado boasts a thriving craft beer scene that has become a magnet for beer enthusiasts. The city’s local breweries offer a diverse range of styles and flavors, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and crisp lagers. Craft beer lovers can explore a variety of microbreweries, taprooms, and brewpubs in Centennial, each offering unique experiences and flavors.
Some of the standout breweries in Centennial include Resolute Brewing, Peak View Brewing, and Lone Tree Brewing. These establishments have gained popularity among locals and visitors alike for their high-quality brews and inviting atmospheres. Many of these breweries also feature rotating taps, seasonal offerings, and special releases, ensuring there’s always something new to try.
Beyond the breweries themselves, Centennial’s craft beer culture extends to local bars and restaurants that prioritize serving a wide selection of local and regional craft beers. Venues like 2 Penguins Tap and Grill and The Griffin Tavern showcase an impressive array of craft beers on tap, allowing patrons to sample the best of Centennial’s brewing scene in one location.
The Rise of Craft Beer in Centennial, CO
Centennial, Colorado has emerged as a thriving hub for craft beer enthusiasts in recent years. The city’s brewing scene has experienced significant growth, with several local breweries opening their doors to eager patrons.
Resolute Brewing Company stands out as a central figure in Centennial’s craft beer community. Known for its commitment to quality, Resolute has garnered a loyal following among local beer lovers.
Other notable establishments include Peak View Brewing and Launch Pad Brewery. These breweries have contributed to the city’s diverse beer offerings, each bringing its unique flavors and styles to the table.
The craft beer movement in Centennial reflects a broader trend seen across Colorado. Since 1988, the state has witnessed a rapid expansion of its craft brewing industry, with Centennial playing its part in this growth.
Local bars and taprooms have embraced the craft beer revolution. Venues like Max Taps focus on supporting small businesses by showcasing a wide array of local brews, further fueling the industry’s expansion in Centennial.
This rise in craft beer culture has not only provided residents and visitors with more beverage options but has also contributed to the local economy. The industry’s growth has created jobs and attracted tourism to the area.
Notable Breweries in Centennial
Centennial boasts a thriving craft beer scene with several standout breweries. These local establishments offer unique flavors and experiences for beer enthusiasts.
Resolute Brewing Co
Resolute Brewing Co stands as a cornerstone of Centennial’s craft beer community. Founded in 2016, this brewery quickly gained recognition for its high-quality brews and inviting taproom atmosphere.
Resolute’s beer lineup features a diverse range of styles, from crisp lagers to hop-forward IPAs and rich stouts. Their flagship Resolute IPA has become a local favorite, known for its balanced hop profile and smooth finish.
The taproom offers a welcoming space for patrons to enjoy fresh beer on tap. Resolute also hosts regular events, including food truck visits and live music performances, enhancing the overall brewery experience.
Halfpenny Brewing Company
Halfpenny Brewing Company brings a touch of British-inspired brewing to Centennial. Established by two homebrewing friends, this brewery focuses on traditional European styles with an American twist.
Their beer selection includes classic English ales, German lagers, and innovative seasonal offerings. Halfpenny’s ESB (Extra Special Bitter) has garnered praise for its authentic flavor profile.
The taproom’s cozy, pub-like atmosphere draws in locals and visitors alike. Halfpenny often collaborates with local food vendors to provide tasty pairings for their brews.
Two22 Brew
Two22 Brew combines craft beer with charitable giving, donating $2.22 from every $10 of profit to Colorado-based nonprofits. This unique approach has made them a respected member of the Centennial community.
Their beer lineup showcases a mix of traditional and experimental styles. Two22’s Chocolate Porter has become a standout, offering rich cocoa notes balanced with roasted malt flavors.
The taproom provides a family-friendly environment, complete with board games and a spacious outdoor patio. Two22 regularly hosts community events and fundraisers, reinforcing their commitment to local causes.
Guide to Centennial Craft Beer Varieties
Centennial, Colorado boasts a diverse range of craft beer styles to satisfy any palate. Local breweries offer everything from light lagers to bold stouts.
IPAs reign supreme in Centennial’s craft beer scene. Breweries like Resolute Brewing Company craft hop-forward ales with citrusy and piney flavors. Double and triple IPAs pack an extra punch for hop enthusiasts.
For those who prefer maltier options, amber ales and brown ales are popular choices. These beers balance caramel sweetness with subtle hop bitterness.
Wheat beers provide a refreshing option, especially during warmer months. Hefeweizens and witbiers offer notes of banana, clove, and citrus.
Stouts and porters cater to dark beer lovers. Rich flavors of chocolate, coffee, and roasted malt dominate these styles.
Sour beers have gained traction in Centennial. Breweries experiment with fruit additions and barrel aging to create complex, tart brews.
Seasonal offerings rotate throughout the year. Oktoberfest lagers in fall, winter warmers in cold months, and fruit-infused ales in summer keep beer menus exciting.
Many Centennial breweries also produce lighter options like pilsners and blonde ales for those seeking crisp, easy-drinking beers.
Pairing Food and Craft Beer
Centennial’s craft beer scene offers exciting opportunities to explore complementary food and beer pairings. Local breweries collaborate with food trucks and develop their own menus to enhance the drinking experience.
Local Flavors and Beer Combinations
Resolute Brewing Company showcases Colorado-inspired pairings. Their hoppy IPA pairs well with spicy dishes, cutting through heat with citrusy notes. For a heartier option, the brewery’s robust porter complements smoky barbecue flavors.
Peak View Brewing emphasizes seasonal combinations. Their light wheat ale pairs nicely with fresh salads and lighter fare in summer months. In winter, their rich stout matches perfectly with hearty stews and roasted meats.
Spice Trade Brewery & Kitchen takes a global approach. Their Belgian-style ales complement aromatic Indian curries, while their crisp lagers pair well with zesty Thai dishes.
Food Trucks and Brewery Bites
Many Centennial breweries partner with local food trucks to offer diverse dining options. Launch Pad Brewery regularly hosts trucks serving everything from gourmet tacos to artisanal pizzas.
A Bit Twisted Brewpub & BBQ combines craft beer with in-house barbecue. Their smoked brisket pairs exceptionally well with their amber ale, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Lone Tree Brewing offers a rotating selection of food trucks. Visitors can enjoy pairings like fish and chips with a citrusy IPA or gourmet grilled cheese with a smooth blonde ale.
Some breweries also offer their own small bites. 2 Penguins Tap and Grill serves pub-style appetizers designed to complement their extensive beer selection.
Year-Round Events and Festivals
Centennial’s craft beer scene thrives with exciting events throughout the year. Beer enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of festivals and gatherings that showcase local brews and bring the community together.
Summer Beer Festivals
The Centennial Brew-N-Que stands out as a highlight of the summer season. This popular festival combines Colorado’s finest craft beers with mouthwatering barbecue. Local breweries and skilled pitmasters come together to create a flavorful experience for attendees.
Beer lovers can sample a wide range of unique brews while enjoying live music and entertainment. The event typically features food trucks, vendor booths, and brewing demonstrations.
Another summer favorite is the Cherry Creek Arts Festival, which often includes craft beer tastings alongside art displays. This event allows visitors to appreciate both visual arts and the art of brewing.
Winter Brewing Events
When temperatures drop, Centennial’s craft beer scene heats up with cozy indoor events. Local taprooms host special winter-themed beer releases, featuring rich stouts, spiced ales, and barrel-aged varieties perfect for the season.
The Mile High Beer Festival, typically held in February, brings together breweries from across Colorado. Attendees can sample a diverse selection of craft beers in a festive indoor setting.
Some breweries organize holiday markets, combining craft beer tastings with opportunities to purchase locally made gifts. These events foster a sense of community and support for local artisans and brewers during the winter months.
Craft Beer Tasting Tips
When sampling craft beers in Centennial, CO, use proper tasting techniques to fully appreciate the flavors. Start by examining the beer’s appearance, noting its color and clarity.
Next, swirl the beer gently to release aromas. Take a few short sniffs to detect the various scents, which can range from hoppy to malty or fruity.
Take a small sip and let it coat your tongue. Notice the initial flavors, then swallow to experience the aftertaste. Pay attention to the beer’s body and mouthfeel.
Consider these key characteristics when tasting:
- Appearance
- Aroma
- Flavor
- Mouthfeel
- Finish
Try comparing different styles side by side to identify unique qualities. Cleanse your palate with water or crackers between tastings.
Take notes on your impressions to remember favorites and track your preferences over time. Many local breweries offer tasting flights, allowing you to sample multiple beers in smaller portions.
Remember that tasting is subjective. Trust your own preferences and don’t be afraid to try new styles. Craft beer exploration is about discovering what you enjoy most.
Staying Informed: News and Updates
Keeping up with the latest developments in Centennial’s craft beer scene is essential for enthusiasts. Local newsletters and social media platforms offer valuable insights into new releases, events, and brewery happenings.
Subscribing to Local Craft Beer Newsletters
Many Centennial breweries offer email newsletters to keep patrons informed. These newsletters often include information on seasonal brews, taproom events, and special promotions. Subscribers may receive exclusive offers or early access to limited releases.
To find these newsletters, visit brewery websites or inquire at taprooms. Some local beer shops also curate newsletters featuring updates from multiple breweries in the area.
Following Breweries on Social Media
Social media platforms provide real-time updates from Centennial’s craft breweries. Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are popular choices for breweries to share news and engage with customers.
Resolute Brewing, Peak View Brewing, and Spice Trade Brewery & Kitchen maintain active social media presences. Following these accounts offers insights into daily tap lists, upcoming events, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of the brewing process.
Local news stations occasionally cover craft beer stories. Denver’s Channel 7 News and Fox 21 News have featured segments on Centennial breweries, highlighting community events and fundraisers.
