Denver’s craft beer scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, innovation, and community. With over 100 brewpubs, breweries, and taprooms scattered throughout the metro area, the Mile High City has solidified its reputation as a beer lover’s paradise. From award-winning establishments like Great Divide Brewing Co. to hidden gems tucked away in neighborhoods, Denver offers an unparalleled craft beer experience for locals and visitors alike.
The city’s beer culture extends beyond individual breweries, encompassing events like Denver Beer Fest and the Great American Beer Festival. These celebrations showcase the diversity and creativity of Denver’s brewing landscape, featuring beer tastings, food pairings, and brewery tours. Craft beer enthusiasts can explore a wide range of styles, from bold IPAs to rich stouts and experimental brews that push the boundaries of traditional beer-making.
Navigating Denver’s craft beer scene can be an adventure in itself. Each neighborhood boasts its own unique breweries and taprooms, offering distinct atmospheres and signature beers. Whether you’re seeking a cozy spot to enjoy a flight of local brews or planning a brewery-hopping excursion, Denver’s craft beer guide provides a roadmap to the city’s finest pours and most innovative brewing techniques.
History of Craft Beer in Denver
Denver’s craft beer scene has deep roots stretching back to the city’s founding. German immigrants established the first breweries during the gold rush, laying the foundation for a thriving industry that would evolve over more than 150 years.
Pioneers of the Denver Brewery Scene
In the 1850s, German settlers brought their brewing traditions to Denver. These early brewers quenched the thirst of gold rush miners, establishing a beer culture that would become integral to the city’s identity. Zang Brewing, founded in what is now the Denver Aquarium, grew to be one of Colorado’s top producers by 1910.
Advancements in pasteurization and bottling allowed Denver’s breweries to expand distribution nationwide. However, Prohibition dealt a severe blow to the industry in the 1920s, forcing many breweries to close their doors.
The Rise of Microbreweries
The craft beer renaissance in Denver began in the 1980s. Pioneering microbreweries revived the city’s brewing legacy, experimenting with new flavors and styles. This movement gained momentum throughout the 1990s and 2000s, with Denver becoming a hub for innovative craft brewing.
The Great American Beer Festival, first held in Boulder in 1982 and later moving to Denver, played a crucial role in showcasing the city’s brewing talent. Today, Denver boasts a diverse craft beer scene, with numerous taprooms and brewpubs offering unique, locally-made brews to beer enthusiasts.
Navigating Denver’s Neighborhoods
Denver’s craft beer scene thrives across diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique brewing experiences. From artistic enclaves to historic districts, the city’s beer culture reflects its vibrant communities.
RiNo: The River North Art District
RiNo pulses with creativity and craft beer innovation. This former industrial area now hosts numerous breweries and taprooms. Great Divide Brewing Co.’s Barrel Bar anchors the neighborhood, offering bold flavors in a spacious setting.
Visitors can explore RiNo’s street art while sipping local brews. Many breweries feature rotating taps, showcasing experimental and seasonal offerings. The area’s walkability makes it ideal for self-guided beer tours.
RiNo’s breweries often collaborate with local artists, resulting in unique can designs and taproom aesthetics. This blend of art and brewing creates a distinctive atmosphere for beer enthusiasts.
LoDo: Denver’s Spirited Downtown
Lower Downtown (LoDo) buzzes with energy and history. This area combines classic pubs with modern craft breweries. Historic buildings house innovative brewing operations, creating a charming contrast.
LoDo’s proximity to major attractions makes it a popular stop for tourists and locals alike. Many breweries offer rooftop patios with views of the city skyline and Rocky Mountains.
The neighborhood’s beer scene caters to diverse tastes, from traditional lagers to cutting-edge sour beers. Brewpubs in LoDo often pair their craft beers with locally-sourced cuisine, enhancing the tasting experience.
Five Points: The Cultural Heart
Five Points blends rich history with contemporary brewing. This historically African American neighborhood now boasts a thriving craft beer community. Breweries here often pay homage to the area’s jazz heritage through their beer names and taproom decor.
The district’s breweries frequently host live music events, continuing Five Points’ musical legacy. Many establishments focus on creating inclusive spaces that celebrate the neighborhood’s diverse culture.
Five Points’ breweries often experiment with unique ingredients and brewing techniques, reflecting the area’s innovative spirit. Beer enthusiasts can find everything from classic styles to boundary-pushing brews in this cultural hub.
Highland: The Trendy Foothills
Highland’s elevated location offers stunning city views and a laid-back beer scene. This trendy neighborhood features a mix of established breweries and up-and-coming taprooms. Many Highland breweries focus on sustainability, using local ingredients and eco-friendly practices.
The area’s beer gardens provide perfect spots for enjoying Denver’s sunny weather. Highland’s breweries often host community events, fostering a strong connection with local residents.
Craft beer lovers can find a range of styles in Highland, from crisp pilsners to complex barrel-aged beers. The neighborhood’s walkable streets make it easy to explore multiple breweries in one visit.
Berkeley & Sunnyside: The Up-and-Comers
Berkeley and Sunnyside are emerging as craft beer destinations. These neighborhoods offer a more relaxed atmosphere compared to bustling downtown areas. Small, family-owned breweries often dominate the scene, providing intimate tasting experiences.
Many breweries in these areas focus on small-batch brews, allowing for frequent rotation of unique offerings. Taprooms here tend to have a cozy, neighborhood feel, encouraging conversation and community.
Berkeley and Sunnyside breweries frequently collaborate with local businesses, creating beers that reflect the area’s character. Beer enthusiasts can discover hidden gems and up-and-coming brewers in these evolving neighborhoods.
The Best Breweries and Brewpubs
Denver’s craft beer scene boasts a diverse array of breweries and brewpubs, each offering unique experiences and flavors. From iconic establishments to innovative newcomers, the city’s beer culture caters to every palate.
Great Divide Brewing Co: A Denver Icon
Great Divide Brewing Co has been a cornerstone of Denver’s craft beer scene since 1994. Known for bold, balanced flavors, their taproom in the heart of downtown offers a wide range of year-round and seasonal brews.
Flagship beers include the Yeti Imperial Stout and Titan IPA. The brewery’s commitment to quality has earned them numerous awards and a loyal following among craft beer enthusiasts.
Great Divide’s spacious taproom features industrial-chic decor and a bustling atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy guided tours to learn about the brewing process and the company’s history.
Cerebral Brewing: For the Thinking Beer Drinker
Cerebral Brewing caters to beer aficionados seeking complex and innovative brews. Founded by a team of scientists and beer enthusiasts, this brewery combines scientific precision with creative flair.
Their taproom in Congress Park offers a rotating selection of expertly crafted beers. Specialties include hazy IPAs, barrel-aged stouts, and mixed fermentation sours.
Cerebral’s attention to detail extends to their taproom design, featuring a clean, modern aesthetic with scientific touches. The brewery often hosts special release events and collaborations with other craft brewers.
Denver Beer Co: A Community Hub
Denver Beer Co has become a beloved fixture in the local beer scene since opening in 2011. With multiple locations across the city, they’ve created welcoming spaces for beer lovers to gather.
Their flagship Platte Street taproom offers a lively atmosphere with communal seating and a spacious patio. Popular brews include the Graham Cracker Porter and Incredible Pedal IPA.
Denver Beer Co emphasizes sustainability in their brewing practices. They’ve also gained recognition for their community involvement and support of local causes.
Bruz Beers: Belgian-Inspired Mastery
Bruz Beers specializes in Belgian-style ales, bringing a taste of European brewing traditions to Denver. Their taproom in Midtown offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a Belgian pub.
Signature beers include the Bruz Bruin, a traditional Flemish brown ale, and the Jagged Twilight, a Belgian-style golden strong ale. The brewery also experiments with unique flavors and barrel-aging techniques.
Bruz hosts regular events celebrating Belgian beer culture, including pairing dinners and educational tastings. Their commitment to authenticity and quality has earned them a dedicated following among beer connoisseurs.
Our Mutual Friend Brewing: Quality and Sustainability
Our Mutual Friend Brewing (OMF) stands out for its focus on locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices. Located in the RiNo Art District, their taproom offers a laid-back, neighborly vibe.
OMF’s beer lineup features a mix of traditional styles and experimental brews. Popular options include their award-winning Saison Trystero and Inner Light Hazy Pale Ale.
The brewery’s commitment to sustainability extends to their use of Colorado-grown malts and hops. They also support local artists by featuring rotating artwork in their taproom.
Raíces Brewing Co: A Taste of Latin America
Raíces Brewing Co brings Latin American flavors and culture to Denver’s beer scene. Founded by three Latino entrepreneurs, the brewery celebrates heritage through innovative brews and community engagement.
Their taproom on the banks of the South Platte River offers a vibrant atmosphere with colorful murals and live music. Signature beers incorporate Latin American ingredients, such as their Cosecha Fresca, brewed with fresh chiles.
Raíces hosts cultural events and collaborates with local Latino-owned businesses. Their unique approach has quickly made them a standout in Denver’s competitive craft beer landscape.
Beer Styles and Innovations
Denver’s craft beer scene offers a diverse array of styles and flavors. Brewers in the Mile High City push boundaries with innovative techniques while honoring traditional brewing methods.
Lagers and Pilsners: Crisp and Refreshing
Denver breweries excel at crafting crisp, clean lagers and pilsners. These styles showcase the city’s pure Rocky Mountain water and skilled brewing techniques. Local brewers often add unique twists to these classic styles.
Many Denver breweries feature Czech-style pilsners with a crisp hop bite. German-inspired helles lagers offer a smooth, malty profile. Some brewers experiment with dry-hopping or fruit additions to create distinct flavor profiles.
Prost Brewing Company specializes in authentic German-style lagers. Their Prost Pils highlights traditional Noble hops for a classic taste.
IPAs and Pale Ales: Hop-Forward Favorites
IPAs reign supreme in Denver’s craft beer scene. Brewers embrace both West Coast and New England styles, showcasing a range of hop flavors and aromas.
Hazy, juicy New England IPAs have gained popularity in recent years. These beers feature tropical fruit notes and a smooth mouthfeel. Denver Beer Co.’s Juicy Freak IPA exemplifies this style with its citrusy hop profile.
West Coast IPAs maintain a strong presence, offering bold bitterness and pine notes. Great Divide Brewing Co.’s Titan IPA is a local favorite in this category.
Many breweries experiment with fruit additions or unique hop varieties in their IPAs. Mango, pineapple, and tangerine often make appearances in these innovative brews.
Stouts and Porters: Dark and Rich
Denver’s cold winters create the perfect atmosphere for enjoying rich, dark beers. Local brewers craft an impressive range of stouts and porters to satisfy this demand.
Imperial stouts are a popular choice, often aged in bourbon barrels for added complexity. Great Divide’s Yeti Imperial Stout series showcases various flavor additions like chocolate, coffee, and vanilla.
Milk stouts offer a sweeter alternative with their creamy texture and lactose additions. Left Hand Brewing’s Milk Stout Nitro has gained national recognition for its smooth, velvety mouthfeel.
Robust porters provide a balance of roasted malt flavors and moderate bitterness. Denver Beer Co.’s Graham Cracker Porter adds a unique twist with its graham cracker-inspired flavor profile.
Saisons and Sour Beers: Complex and Tart
Denver brewers embrace the complexity of farmhouse ales and sour beers. These styles offer a refreshing alternative to hop-forward brews.
Saisons feature spicy yeast characteristics and often incorporate local ingredients. Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project specializes in mixed-fermentation saisons with unique flavor profiles.
Kettle sours have gained popularity for their quick fermentation process and refreshing tartness. Many Denver breweries offer fruited sours with additions like raspberry, peach, or blackberry.
Some breweries focus on traditional Belgian-style sour ales. These complex beers often undergo extended aging in oak barrels or foeders.
Gluten-Free and Novelty Brews
Denver’s craft beer scene caters to diverse dietary needs and adventurous palates. Gluten-free options have expanded beyond traditional sorghum-based beers.
Holidaily Brewing Company specializes in gluten-free beers using millet and buckwheat. Their offerings range from IPAs to stouts, providing celiac-friendly alternatives across various styles.
Novelty brews push the boundaries of traditional beer styles. Some breweries incorporate unique ingredients like chili peppers, herbs, or even rocky mountain oysters.
Collaboration beers between local breweries and other businesses are common. These limited-edition brews often feature ingredients from local coffee roasters, chocolatiers, or restaurants.
Signature Events and Festivals
Denver’s craft beer scene shines through its vibrant events and festivals. These gatherings showcase the city’s brewing prowess and foster a sense of community among beer enthusiasts.
Great American Beer Festival: The Ultimate Celebration
The Great American Beer Festival (GABF) stands as the pinnacle of beer events in Denver. Held annually, this three-day extravaganza features over 4,000 beers from hundreds of American breweries. Attendees can sample a vast array of styles, from classic lagers to innovative craft creations.
GABF also hosts a prestigious beer competition, where brewers vie for gold, silver, and bronze medals. The festival attracts beer lovers from across the nation, turning Denver into the epicenter of the craft beer world for a weekend.
Expert panels and educational sessions provide insights into brewing techniques and beer appreciation. For those seeking rare and limited-edition brews, GABF offers special tappings throughout the event.
Local Taproom Events: Experience the Community
Denver’s taprooms host regular events that highlight the city’s tight-knit brewing community. Many breweries organize weekly trivia nights, live music performances, and food truck partnerships.
Tap takeovers allow guest breweries to showcase their beers, fostering collaboration and introducing patrons to new flavors. Beer release parties celebrate new brews with fanfare, often featuring limited-edition merchandise and brewer meet-and-greets.
Some taprooms host brewing classes, giving enthusiasts hands-on experience in the beer-making process. Others organize themed events like Oktoberfest celebrations or holiday markets, blending beer appreciation with seasonal festivities.
Seasonal Beer Festivals: A Reason for Every Pour
Denver’s beer calendar is packed with seasonal festivals catering to various tastes. The Denver Beer Fest, coinciding with GABF, features over 100 beer-centric events across the city, including tap takeovers and beer pairing dinners.
Spring welcomes the Collaboration Fest, where breweries team up to create unique, one-off beers. Summer brings outdoor festivals like the Colorado Brewers’ Festival, showcasing the state’s best brews in a lively atmosphere.
Fall ushers in Oktoberfest celebrations, with many breweries hosting their own versions of the Bavarian tradition. Winter sees the arrival of holiday ale festivals, featuring rich, warming brews perfect for the colder months.
The Brewery Experience
Denver’s craft beer scene offers immersive experiences for beer enthusiasts. From behind-the-scenes tours to lively taprooms and food pairings, the city’s breweries provide a multifaceted adventure for visitors.
Brewery Tours: Behind the Scenes
Many Denver breweries offer guided tours, giving beer lovers an insider’s look at the brewing process. These tours often include stops at the brew house, fermentation tanks, and packaging lines. Visitors learn about ingredient selection, brewing techniques, and quality control measures.
Some popular tour options include the Colorado Beer with a Cause Tour, which combines brewery visits with charitable causes. The Great Divide Brewing Co. also offers informative tours of their facilities.
Tours typically last 2-3 hours and may include tastings of different beer styles. Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend tours.
Taprooms and Patios: Denver’s Social Spaces
Denver’s breweries feature inviting taprooms and outdoor patios where beer drinkers can socialize and enjoy fresh brews. These spaces range from cozy indoor settings to expansive beer gardens.
Epic Brewing Company and Black Shirt Brewing Co. are known for their welcoming taprooms. Many breweries offer flights, allowing patrons to sample multiple beers in smaller portions.
Outdoor patios are particularly popular during Denver’s sunny days. These spaces often feature games like cornhole or giant Jenga, creating a relaxed, community atmosphere.
Food Pairings and Trucks: Culinary Combinations
Denver’s breweries embrace the food and beer pairing trend. Many taprooms host rotating food trucks, offering diverse culinary options to complement their beers.
Some breweries, like Great Divide, collaborate with local chefs to create special pairing menus. These events highlight how different beer styles can enhance various flavors in food.
Food trucks often park outside breweries, serving everything from tacos to gourmet burgers. This arrangement allows visitors to enjoy a variety of cuisines while sampling different beers.
During events like Denver Beer Fest, special food and beer pairing experiences are common, showcasing the city’s culinary and brewing talents.
The Culture of Craft Beer
Denver’s craft beer scene thrives on passionate enthusiasts and economic impact. Beer lovers form tight-knit communities around local breweries, while the industry contributes significantly to the city’s economy.
Beer Aficionados: A Passionate Community
Denver’s craft beer culture centers around dedicated beer aficionados. These enthusiasts gather at local breweries, sharing knowledge and experiences. They engage in tastings, brewery tours, and beer festivals, fostering a sense of camaraderie.
Many Denver breweries serve as community hubs. They host events, tastings, and educational sessions, attracting both locals and tourists. Beer clubs and homebrewing groups further strengthen the community bonds.
Social media plays a crucial role in connecting beer lovers. Enthusiasts share reviews, recommendations, and brewery updates online, creating a virtual extension of the physical community.
Craft Beer and Denver’s Economy
The craft beer industry significantly impacts Denver’s economy. It creates jobs in brewing, distribution, and hospitality sectors. Local breweries attract tourists, boosting the city’s tourism revenue.
Many Denver breweries source ingredients locally, supporting regional agriculture. This practice strengthens the local supply chain and promotes sustainability.
Craft beer festivals, like the Great American Beer Festival, bring substantial economic benefits. These events draw visitors from across the country, filling hotels and restaurants.
The industry also spurs innovation and entrepreneurship. New brewing techniques and flavor combinations continually emerge, keeping Denver at the forefront of craft beer trends.
