Greeley, Colorado boasts a thriving craft beer scene that’s rapidly gaining recognition among beer enthusiasts. This northern Colorado city is home to several outstanding breweries, each offering unique flavors and experiences. Greeley’s craft beer landscape features breweries like WeldWerks Brewing, Wiley Roots Brewing Company, and Crabtree Brewing Company, all of which have helped put the city on the map for beer lovers.
These local establishments showcase a wide range of beer styles, from traditional ales and lagers to innovative experimental brews. Many Greeley breweries take pride in using locally-sourced ingredients, reflecting the region’s agricultural heritage in their craft. The city’s craft beer culture also fosters a strong sense of community, with taprooms serving as gathering places for locals and visitors alike.
History and Culture of Brewing in Greeley
Greeley’s brewing history reflects Colorado’s rich beer heritage. The city has embraced craft brewing, contributing unique flavors to the state’s diverse beer landscape.
The Roots of Craft Beer in Greeley
Greeley’s brewing culture dates back to the late 19th century when German immigrants brought their beer-making traditions to the area. These early brewers established small operations, producing lagers and ales for local consumption. However, Prohibition halted commercial brewing activities in the 1920s.
The craft beer revival in Greeley began in the early 2000s. Local entrepreneurs, inspired by Colorado’s growing craft beer scene, started small-scale breweries. These pioneers focused on quality ingredients and innovative recipes, laying the foundation for Greeley’s modern craft beer industry.
Greeley’s Contribution to Colorado Beers
Greeley has made significant contributions to Colorado’s craft beer reputation. The city’s breweries have gained recognition for their creative and high-quality brews. WeldWerks Brewing Company, founded in 2015, has won numerous awards for its innovative beers, putting Greeley on the map for beer enthusiasts.
Other local breweries like Wiley Roots Brewing Company and Crabtree Brewing Company have also garnered attention for their unique offerings. These establishments have helped transform Greeley into a destination for craft beer lovers, contributing to the city’s growing reputation as part of Colorado’s “Napa Valley of craft beer.”
Major Greeley Breweries
Greeley boasts several outstanding craft breweries that have made a name for themselves in Colorado’s competitive beer scene. These establishments offer unique flavors, innovative brewing techniques, and welcoming atmospheres for beer enthusiasts.
WeldWerks Brewing Co Overview
WeldWerks Brewing Co has quickly become a standout in Greeley’s craft beer landscape. Founded in 2015, this brewery has gained national recognition for its bold and experimental brews. WeldWerks is particularly known for its New England-style IPAs and barrel-aged stouts.
The brewery’s flagship beer, Juicy Bits, is a hazy IPA that has garnered widespread acclaim. WeldWerks also produces an impressive array of seasonal and limited-release beers, keeping their tap list fresh and exciting.
Their taproom, located in downtown Greeley, features a modern industrial design with ample seating. Visitors can enjoy flights, pints, and to-go options of their favorite WeldWerks creations.
Wiley Roots Brewing Company Profile
Wiley Roots Brewing Company, established in 2013, has carved out a niche in Greeley’s beer scene with its focus on mixed-culture fermentation and barrel-aged sours. The brewery prides itself on pushing boundaries and creating unique flavor profiles.
Their core lineup includes Slush, a series of fruited sour ales, and Super 77 Wheat, a crisp American wheat beer. Wiley Roots also excels in producing stouts and IPAs, offering a diverse range for different palates.
The taproom provides a cozy, rustic atmosphere where patrons can sample flights or enjoy pints. Wiley Roots frequently hosts events and releases special brews, fostering a strong local community around their brand.
Crabtree Brewing Company’s Signature Offerings
Crabtree Brewing Company, founded in 2006, holds the distinction of being Greeley’s first craft brewery. With over a decade of experience, Crabtree has refined its brewing process and developed a loyal following.
Their flagship beers include:
- Boxcar Brown Ale: A smooth, malty brown ale
- Dearfield Ale: A crisp, refreshing blonde ale
- Oatmeal Stout: A rich, creamy stout with coffee notes
Crabtree also produces seasonal offerings and experimental brews, keeping their selection diverse and interesting. The brewery’s taproom offers a laid-back environment where visitors can enjoy fresh beer on tap or purchase cans to take home.
Broken Plow Brewery
Broken Plow Brewery, established in 2013, brings a unique farm-to-tap concept to Greeley’s beer scene. This small-batch brewery focuses on using locally sourced ingredients, including hops grown on their own farm.
Broken Plow offers a rotating selection of beers, with styles ranging from light lagers to robust stouts. Some of their popular brews include:
- Cream Ale: A smooth, easy-drinking ale
- Reckless IPA: A hop-forward India Pale Ale
- Signature Porter: A dark, malty porter
The brewery’s taproom features a rustic, farmhouse-inspired design, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Broken Plow often hosts live music events and food trucks, enhancing the visitor experience.
Key Beer Styles and Innovations
Greeley’s craft beer scene showcases a diverse range of styles and innovative brewing techniques. Local breweries have gained recognition for their unique takes on popular beer varieties and experimental approaches.
Exploring IPAs and Juicy Bits
IPAs reign supreme in Greeley’s craft beer landscape. WeldWerks Brewing Co. has put the city on the map with their acclaimed Juicy Bits IPA. This hazy, New England-style IPA bursts with tropical fruit flavors and a smooth mouthfeel.
Other local breweries have followed suit, crafting their own interpretations of juicy IPAs. Hop-forward beers with notes of citrus, pine, and stone fruit dominate tap lists across town.
Many Greeley brewers experiment with fruit additions and dry-hopping techniques to create unique IPA variations. Double and triple IPAs push the boundaries of hop intensity and alcohol content.
The Rise of RIS and Stouts
Russian Imperial Stouts (RIS) and other robust stouts have gained popularity in Greeley’s beer scene. These dark, full-bodied beers offer complex flavors of roasted malt, coffee, and chocolate.
Local brewers age RIS in bourbon barrels to impart oak and vanilla notes. Some add ingredients like coconut, vanilla beans, or chili peppers for added depth.
Pastry stouts, designed to mimic dessert flavors, have become a creative outlet for Greeley’s brewers. These sweet, indulgent beers often feature additions like lactose, cocoa nibs, and fruit purees.
Diverse Flavors of Greeley’s Craft Beer
Beyond IPAs and stouts, Greeley’s breweries produce a wide array of beer styles. Crisp lagers and pilsners provide refreshing options for warm Colorado days.
Sour beers and wild ales have found a niche audience in Greeley. Brewers use fruit additions and barrel-aging to create tart, funky flavors.
Belgian-inspired ales, including saisons and abbey-style beers, showcase yeast-driven flavors and spicy notes. Some local brewers experiment with mixed fermentation techniques.
Seasonal releases allow Greeley’s breweries to showcase unique ingredients and styles throughout the year. Pumpkin ales, winter warmers, and fruit-infused summer beers keep tap lists fresh and exciting.
Greeley Craft Beer Experience
Greeley’s craft beer scene offers visitors a wealth of opportunities to explore local flavors and brewing expertise. From guided tours to annual festivals, beer enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant beer culture.
Guided Tours and Beer Tastings
Several Greeley breweries offer guided tours and tasting experiences. WeldWerks Brewing provides behind-the-scenes looks at their brewing process, followed by expertly led tastings of their award-winning beers. Wiley Roots Brewing Company hosts weekly “Meet the Brewer” events, where visitors can chat with brewers while sampling limited-release brews.
Crabtree Brewing Company offers educational tours that delve into the history of brewing in Greeley. These tours often conclude with a flight of their signature beers, giving participants a comprehensive taste of local craftsmanship.
For those seeking a broader experience, Beer Tour companies operate in Greeley, providing transportation and guided visits to multiple breweries in one outing.
Annual Events and the Great American Beer Festival
Greeley’s beer calendar is packed with annual events celebrating craft brews. The Greeley Blues Jam in June features a beer garden showcasing local breweries. October brings OktoBrewFest, a two-day festival combining German traditions with Colorado craft beer.
Many Greeley brewers participate in the Great American Beer Festival (GABF) in nearby Denver. This prestigious event attracts beer lovers from across the country. Local breweries often host GABF viewing parties, allowing Greeley residents to taste award-winning beers without leaving town.
WeldWerks Brewing has gained national recognition at GABF, earning medals for their innovative creations. Their success has put Greeley on the map as a craft beer destination.
Local Recommendations for Visitors
Beer enthusiasts visiting Greeley should start their journey at WeldWerks Brewing, known for their experimental flavors and New England-style IPAs. Wiley Roots Brewing Company is a must-visit for sour beer fans, offering a rotating selection of fruit-forward brews.
For a more intimate experience, Tightknit Brewing Co provides a cozy taproom atmosphere with a focus on community and conversation. Their small-batch brews change frequently, ensuring a unique experience with each visit.
Rule105 Brewing offers a dog-friendly patio and food trucks, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed afternoon of beer tasting. Their diverse tap list caters to a wide range of preferences, from light lagers to robust stouts.
Enjoying the Social Aspect
Greeley’s craft breweries offer more than just great beer. They serve as community gathering spots where patrons can socialize, enjoy tasty food, and experience live entertainment in welcoming atmospheres.
The Role of Food Trucks and Pub Fare
Many Greeley breweries partner with local food trucks to provide diverse dining options. These rotating culinary offerings complement the beers and add variety to each visit. Some popular pairings include tacos with IPAs and BBQ with stouts.
Several taprooms also feature their own pub fare menus. Hearty dishes like pretzels with beer cheese, nachos, and gourmet burgers are common. These foods are designed to pair well with the brewery’s beer selection.
Wiley Roots Brewing Company hosts different food trucks throughout the week. WeldWerks Brewing offers an in-house kitchen with elevated pub grub.
Breweries with Outdoor Patios and Live Music
Outdoor patios are popular features at Greeley breweries, allowing patrons to enjoy their beers in the fresh air. These spaces often include fire pits, yard games, and pet-friendly areas.
Live music adds to the vibrant atmosphere at many local taprooms. Acoustic sets, small bands, and open mic nights are common. Rule105 Brewing hosts regular live music events on their patio during warmer months.
Crabtree Brewing Company boasts a spacious outdoor area with picnic tables and frequent live performances. TightKnit Brewing Co. offers a cozy patio space perfect for intimate gatherings and enjoying a pint under the stars.
Nearby Craft Beer Destinations
Greeley’s surrounding areas offer a wealth of craft beer experiences. These nearby cities boast acclaimed breweries and vibrant beer scenes worth exploring.
Fort Collins’ Renowned Breweries
Fort Collins, just 30 minutes northwest of Greeley, is a craft beer mecca. New Belgium Brewing, founded in 1991, helped spark the craft beer revolution. Their flagship Fat Tire amber ale remains popular, but innovative brews keep beer enthusiasts coming back.
Odell Brewing Company, established in 1989, is another Fort Collins staple. Known for their IPA and 90 Shilling Ale, Odell offers a diverse tap list in their spacious taproom and beer garden.
Fort Collins is home to over 20 breweries. Many offer tours, allowing visitors to see the brewing process firsthand. The city’s bike-friendly layout makes brewery hopping easy and safe.
Loveland’s Craft Beer Scene
Loveland, situated between Greeley and Fort Collins, has a thriving craft beer community. The city boasts over 10 breweries, each with its own unique character.
Grimm Brothers Brewhouse specializes in German-style beers, offering traditional lagers and ales. Their taproom features a cozy atmosphere and regular events.
Verboten Brewing focuses on experimental and barrel-aged beers. Their creative flavors and styles have earned them multiple awards at national competitions.
Loveland Aleworks, located in the heart of downtown, is known for their sours and IPAs. Their taproom often hosts food trucks and live music events.
Exploring Berthoud and High Hops Brewery
Berthoud, a small town south of Loveland, is home to High Hops Brewery. This unique establishment combines a brewery, taproom, and garden center.
High Hops grows their own hops on-site, ensuring fresh ingredients for their beers. Their taproom offers a rotating selection of over 30 house-made beers, from classic styles to experimental brews.
The brewery’s outdoor beer garden provides a relaxing space to enjoy drinks among flowers and hop vines. High Hops also distills their own spirits, including gin and vodka.
Visitors can take guided tours to learn about hop cultivation and the brewing process. The attached garden center sells plants and homebrewing supplies.
Sustainable Practices and Community Engagement
Greeley’s craft breweries are leading the way in environmental stewardship and community involvement. These local businesses have implemented eco-friendly initiatives and actively contribute to the betterment of their neighborhoods.
Eco-friendly Initiatives
Green Earth Brewing Company lives up to its name with a range of sustainable practices. The brewery uses solar panels to power its operations and implements water conservation techniques. They also source ingredients locally to reduce transportation emissions.
Dialed-in Beer focuses on reducing waste. The brewery has a comprehensive recycling program and uses spent grain as animal feed for local farms. They’ve also switched to biodegradable packaging materials for their to-go beer options.
Tightknit Brewing Co. prioritizes energy efficiency. They’ve installed LED lighting throughout their facility and use a high-efficiency brewing system that minimizes energy consumption. The brewery also encourages customers to bring reusable growlers for refills.
Breweries Giving Back to the Community
Green Earth Brewing Company hosts monthly fundraising events for local environmental organizations. They donate a percentage of sales from specific beer releases to support conservation efforts in the Greeley area.
Dialed-in Beer partners with local schools to offer educational programs about sustainable brewing practices. They also sponsor community clean-up events, providing volunteers with free beer as a thank-you for their efforts.
Tightknit Brewing Co. focuses on supporting local artists. They feature rotating art exhibitions in their taproom and collaborate with musicians for live performances. The brewery also donates to local food banks and participates in holiday toy drives for underprivileged children.
Navigating Greeley’s Breweries
Greeley boasts a vibrant craft beer scene with several local breweries to explore. The city’s breweries offer unique flavors and atmospheres for beer enthusiasts to enjoy.
Map and Locations
Greeley is home to 6 craft breweries, each with its own distinct character. WeldWerks Brewing Co. stands out as a popular destination, located at 508 8th Avenue. Wiley Roots Brewing Company is another notable establishment in the area.
Rule105 Brewing and Crabtree Brewing Company add to the diverse beer landscape. Tightknit Brewing Co. and Crooked Beech Brewing round out the list of local beer makers.
Most breweries are concentrated in the downtown area, making it easy to visit multiple locations in one outing.
Transportation and Access
Greeley’s compact layout makes brewery-hopping convenient. Walking between downtown breweries is often feasible and enjoyable.
For those venturing further, rideshare services and taxis are readily available. Some breweries offer ample parking for designated drivers.
Public transportation options are limited, so planning ahead is advisable. Many locals and visitors opt for guided brewery tours, which provide safe transportation and insider knowledge.
Souvenirs and Bottles to Take Home
Greeley’s breweries offer various take-home options for beer lovers. Many sell branded merchandise like t-shirts, hats, and glassware.
Crowlers (32 oz cans) and growlers (64 oz jugs) are popular for fresh beer to-go. Some breweries also offer bottled or canned versions of their most popular brews.
Limited edition releases and seasonal specialties make great souvenirs. Beer enthusiasts often collect brewery stickers or coasters as mementos of their visits.
Check each brewery’s policies on container fills and off-premise sales before planning purchases.
