Davenport, Iowa boasts a thriving craft beer scene that has been steadily growing over the years. The city’s breweries offer a diverse range of flavors and styles, catering to both local beer enthusiasts and visitors alike. Davenport is home to several notable breweries, including Front Street Brewery, Great River Brewery, and Radicle Effect Brewerks, each contributing unique offerings to the local craft beer landscape.
Beer lovers can explore a variety of options, from classic ales and lagers to innovative seasonal brews and experimental concoctions. Many of these establishments not only serve high-quality craft beers but also provide welcoming atmospheres for patrons to gather and enjoy their beverages.
The craft beer culture in Davenport extends beyond the breweries themselves, with local pubs and restaurants often featuring selections from nearby producers. Events like the Village Hops festival in the Village of East Davenport showcase the community’s enthusiasm for craft beer, combining it with local food, music, and art to create a vibrant celebration of the city’s brewing heritage.
History of Craft Beer in Davenport
Craft beer in Davenport, Iowa has a rich and evolving history. The city’s brewing tradition dates back to the 19th century, but the modern craft beer movement took root in the late 20th century.
In 1989, Iowa created a special class “A” brewpub permit, paving the way for local breweries. This legislative change sparked a new era for Davenport’s beer scene.
Front Street Pub & Eatery opened in 1992, becoming the first establishment in the area to brew unique craft beers on-site. This milestone marked the beginning of Davenport’s craft beer renaissance.
The city’s craft beer industry has grown significantly since then. Local breweries have flourished, contributing to Davenport’s vibrant culinary and cultural landscape.
Today, Davenport boasts numerous craft breweries, each offering distinctive flavors and styles. These establishments have become integral to the city’s identity and tourism appeal.
Visitors and locals alike can explore a diverse range of craft beers, from traditional ales to innovative experimental brews. Many of these local breweries also serve as community gathering spaces, hosting events and fostering a strong beer culture.
The craft beer scene in Davenport continues to evolve, with new breweries opening and existing ones expanding their offerings. This growth reflects the city’s commitment to supporting local businesses and embracing creative entrepreneurship.
Exploring Davenport’s Breweries
Davenport boasts a vibrant craft beer scene with several notable breweries. Each establishment offers unique flavors and atmospheres for beer enthusiasts to enjoy.
Great River Brewery
Great River Brewery stands out as a cornerstone of Davenport’s craft beer community. Located near the Mississippi River, it offers a range of year-round and seasonal brews.
The brewery takes pride in its flagship beers, including the Roller Dam Red Ale and 483 Pale Ale. Visitors can enjoy these fresh from the tap in the cozy taproom.
Great River also cans their beers, making them widely available throughout the area. The brewery’s commitment to quality and innovation keeps locals and tourists coming back for more.
Front Street Brewery
Front Street Brewery holds the distinction of being Davenport’s oldest operating brewery. Established in 1992, it has become a staple of the local beer scene.
The brewery offers a diverse selection of house-made beers, from light lagers to robust stouts. Their Raging River Ale and Cherry Bomb Blonde are popular choices among patrons.
Front Street’s historic building adds charm to the experience. The attached restaurant serves pub fare that pairs well with their brews, making it a go-to spot for both drinks and dining.
Bent River Brewing Company
Bent River Brewing Company has expanded from its original Moline location to include a taproom in Davenport. This expansion has allowed more beer lovers to enjoy their creations.
The brewery is known for its Uncommon Stout, infused with coffee flavors. Other popular options include the Jalapeño Pepper Ale and the Mississippi Blonde.
Bent River’s Davenport taproom offers a relaxed atmosphere for sampling their beers. The space often hosts events and live music, adding to the local craft beer culture.
Radicle Effect Brewerks
Radicle Effect Brewerks brings experimental and innovative beers to Davenport’s craft scene. The brewery focuses on small-batch creations, allowing for frequent rotation of new flavors.
Visitors can expect unique offerings like sour beers, fruit-infused ales, and bold IPAs. The tap list changes regularly, encouraging repeat visits to try the latest brews.
The intimate taproom provides a cozy space for beer enthusiasts to gather and discuss the nuances of each brew. Radicle Effect’s approach appeals to those seeking new and exciting beer experiences.
Crawford Brew Works
Crawford Brew Works combines modern brewing techniques with a nod to Davenport’s history. The brewery’s name pays homage to the Crawford family, early settlers in the area.
Their beer lineup includes a mix of traditional styles and creative interpretations. Popular choices include the Lumber Baron IPA and the Levee Break Brown Ale.
The spacious taproom features a sleek, industrial design. Crawford Brew Works often collaborates with local food trucks, enhancing the visitor experience with varied dining options.
Green Tree Brewery
Green Tree Brewery offers a laid-back atmosphere and approachable craft beers. The brewery focuses on creating balanced, easy-drinking options for a wide range of palates.
Signature brews include the Green Tree Blonde Ale and the Chocolate Milk Stout. The taproom’s friendly staff helps guide visitors through the beer selection.
Green Tree also supports the local community by hosting events and partnering with area businesses. This commitment to the neighborhood adds to its appeal as a local gathering spot.
Lionstone Brewing
Lionstone Brewing brings a touch of European brewing tradition to Davenport. The brewery specializes in German and Belgian-style beers, offering a unique niche in the local scene.
Visitors can enjoy authentic hefeweizens, doppelbocks, and Belgian ales. The taproom’s decor reflects the European influence, creating an immersive experience.
Lionstone’s attention to traditional brewing methods sets it apart. Beer enthusiasts appreciate the opportunity to sample these classic styles crafted with care in Davenport.
Brewpubs and Taprooms
Davenport’s craft beer scene offers unique taprooms where visitors can sample local brews in welcoming atmospheres. These spots showcase the city’s brewing talent and provide spaces for beer enthusiasts to gather.
Front Street Brewery Taproom
Front Street Brewery, Iowa’s oldest brewpub, operates a taproom at 421 W. River Drive. The venue offers a pet-friendly patio and serves a rotating selection of house-made beers. Patrons can enjoy $5 pints of local craft beer, which is standard pricing for the area.
The taproom hosts regular events and offers weekly specials. It’s known for its Heroes Discount, providing 10% off to active military, veterans, and first responders. Beer lovers can sign up for updates on tappings and upcoming events.
Front Street’s taproom is open on Sundays from 11:00 AM, making it a weekend destination for craft beer aficionados.
Wake Brewing Taproom
Wake Brewing’s taproom provides another option for craft beer enthusiasts in Davenport. While specific details about Wake Brewing’s offerings are limited in the provided information, local taprooms typically feature:
- A selection of house-brewed beers on tap
- Tasting flights for sampling multiple brews
- A casual, welcoming atmosphere
- Special events or release parties for new beers
Wake Brewing likely contributes to Davenport’s growing craft beer culture, offering unique flavors and styles to locals and visitors alike.
Craft Beer Selections at Restaurants
Davenport’s restaurants offer diverse craft beer options for enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. Local establishments take pride in curating beer lists that complement their menus and showcase regional breweries.
Sippis American Grill
Sippis American Grill, located at 406 West 2nd Street, stands out as a top destination for craft beer in Davenport. The restaurant features an impressive selection of local and regional brews on tap.
Sippis rotates its beer list regularly, ensuring patrons always have new options to explore. The establishment typically offers 10-12 craft beers on draft, with a focus on Midwest breweries.
Popular styles available at Sippis include:
- Hoppy IPAs
- Smooth amber ales
- Seasonal wheat beers
- Rich stouts
The knowledgeable staff can provide recommendations to pair beers with Sippis’ American-style cuisine. Craft beer flights are available for those who want to sample multiple brews.
Sippis hosts occasional tap takeovers and beer tasting events, allowing guests to meet brewers and learn about different beer styles.
Where to Purchase Craft Beer
Davenport offers several options for craft beer enthusiasts to purchase their favorite brews. Local beer stores and bottle shops provide a wide selection of craft beers from regional and national breweries. Endless Brews stands out as a top destination for craft beer recommendations and purchases.
Beer Stores and Bottle Shops
Central Store is a popular choice for craft beer shopping in Davenport. They carry a diverse range of local and regional craft beers. Camp McClellan Cellars is another noteworthy option, offering a curated selection of craft brews.
The Grape Life Wine Store & Lounge, while primarily focused on wine, also stocks a variety of craft beers. Mr Ed’s Liquor Store & Tap is known for its extensive beer selection, including many craft options.
For those seeking a unique shopping experience, the Freight House Farmers Market occasionally features local breweries selling their products directly to customers.
Endless Brews Recommendations
Endless Brews is a standout destination for craft beer enthusiasts in Davenport. They offer an impressive selection of craft beers from local, regional, and national breweries. Their knowledgeable staff provides expert recommendations based on customer preferences.
Endless Brews frequently rotates their tap list, ensuring a fresh and diverse selection of craft beers. They also offer growler fills, allowing customers to take home draft beer from their favorite breweries.
The store hosts regular tasting events, giving patrons the opportunity to sample new and exciting craft beers. Endless Brews’ commitment to quality and variety makes it a top choice for purchasing craft beer in Davenport.
Seasonal and Specialty Brews
Davenport’s craft beer scene shines with unique seasonal and specialty offerings. Local breweries showcase their creativity through limited-edition brews that capture the flavors of each season.
Cherry Bomb Blonde Spotlight
Cherry Bomb Blonde, a standout seasonal brew, delights beer enthusiasts in Davenport. This refreshing ale blends the crisp character of a blonde with the subtle sweetness of cherries. Local brewers craft this beer using real fruit for an authentic flavor profile.
The beer pours a pale golden color with a hint of pink. Its aroma carries notes of fresh cherries and light malt. On the palate, drinkers experience a balanced mix of fruit and beer, neither overpowering the other.
Cherry Bomb Blonde typically appears in late spring and early summer. It pairs well with light salads, grilled chicken, and fruit-based desserts. The beer’s popularity often leads to quick sellouts at taprooms and bottle shops.
Several Davenport breweries offer their own versions of fruit-infused blonde ales. Each puts a unique spin on the style, giving craft beer fans a range of options to explore.
Brewing Process and Education
Davenport’s craft breweries offer unique opportunities to learn about the beer-making process. Many local establishments provide brewery tours, allowing visitors to see the equipment and steps involved in creating their favorite brews.
During these tours, guests can observe the mashing, boiling, and fermentation stages. Knowledgeable staff members explain the importance of ingredients like hops, malts, and yeast in crafting distinct flavor profiles.
Some breweries host educational events and workshops focused on beer styles, tasting techniques, and food pairings. These sessions help enthusiasts develop a deeper appreciation for craft beer and its nuances.
Homebrewing classes are available for those interested in trying their hand at making beer. Participants learn about recipe formulation, sanitation practices, and proper fermentation techniques.
Several Davenport breweries collaborate with local colleges and universities to offer internship programs. These partnerships provide hands-on experience for students pursuing careers in brewing science or hospitality management.
Craft beer festivals in the area often feature educational components, such as seminars led by brewmasters and industry experts. These events showcase the diversity of beer styles and brewing techniques found in Davenport’s thriving craft beer scene.
Community and Events
Davenport’s craft beer scene thrives on community spirit and engaging events. Local breweries frequently host gatherings that bring beer enthusiasts together.
Tap takeovers are popular occurrences, allowing breweries to showcase their latest creations. These events often feature limited edition brews and provide opportunities to meet the brewers.
Beer festivals dot the calendar throughout the year. These celebrations highlight Davenport’s brewing talent and attract visitors from across the region.
Many breweries organize regular trivia nights, combining intellectual challenge with craft beer enjoyment. These events foster a sense of camaraderie among patrons.
Seasonal beer releases are often accompanied by launch parties. These gatherings give patrons the chance to be among the first to taste new brews.
Brewery tours offer behind-the-scenes glimpses into the beer-making process. Visitors can learn about brewing techniques and sample fresh beer straight from the source.
Some local breweries collaborate with charities, hosting fundraising events that support community causes while promoting their craft beers.
Live music performances are common at many Davenport breweries, creating a vibrant atmosphere for beer lovers to enjoy.
Supporting Local Breweries
Davenport’s craft beer scene offers beer enthusiasts a chance to support local businesses while enjoying unique brews. The city boasts several breweries, each contributing to the vibrant local economy.
Front Street Brewery stands out as Davenport’s oldest brewery and Iowa’s second oldest. It’s known for its Old Davenport Golden Ale and Cherry Ale, showcasing the region’s brewing heritage.
Visiting local breweries allows patrons to taste fresh, small-batch beers not available elsewhere. Many of these establishments offer tours, giving visitors insight into the brewing process and the passion behind each recipe.
Local breweries often collaborate with nearby farms and businesses, sourcing ingredients locally. This practice strengthens community ties and promotes sustainable production methods.
Some popular craft beers to try in Davenport include:
- Seasonal ales
- Bold IPAs
- Smooth stouts
By choosing local craft beers, consumers directly support Davenport’s economy and help preserve its brewing traditions. Many breweries also participate in community events, further cementing their role in local culture.
Davenport’s breweries frequently experiment with new flavors and techniques, keeping the local beer scene dynamic and exciting. This innovation attracts beer tourists, benefiting the wider hospitality industry.
