Kent, Washington has emerged as a vibrant hub for craft beer enthusiasts. This city in the heart of the Pacific Northwest boasts a diverse array of local breweries producing unique and flavorful beers. Kent’s craft beer scene offers something for every palate, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and refreshing lagers.
Visitors and locals alike can explore Kent’s burgeoning beer culture through its numerous taprooms and brewpubs. Airways Brewing, The Brewmaster’s Taproom, and Four Horsemen Brewery are just a few of the standout establishments crafting exceptional brews. These venues not only serve up delicious beers but also provide welcoming atmospheres for socializing and savoring the local flavors.
Kent’s craft beer industry reflects the city’s growing culinary landscape. Many breweries pair their beers with delectable food options, creating a complete sensory experience. From beer gardens to arcade-style taprooms, Kent’s craft beer destinations offer diverse settings to enjoy high-quality, locally-made brews.
History of Craft Beer in Kent
Kent, Washington’s craft beer story begins with hops. In the late 1800s, the area was renowned for hop cultivation, earning it the nickname “Hop Capital of the World.” This agricultural legacy laid the foundation for Kent’s future in brewing.
The city’s name itself stems from its hop-growing past. Originally called Titusville, it was renamed Kent after the hop-producing region in England, reflecting the importance of this crop to the local economy.
Kent’s modern craft beer scene emerged in the 1980s, mirroring the broader craft beer boom across Washington State. This revival tapped into the region’s hop-growing heritage, with local brewers experimenting with bold, hoppy flavors.
Airways Brewing Company stands out as a cornerstone of Kent’s contemporary craft beer landscape. Founded in 2010, Airways has garnered awards and recognition for its hop-forward brews, cementing Kent’s place on the craft beer map.
The Kent Craft Beer Fest, typically held in May, has become an annual celebration of local brewing talent. This event showcases the city’s evolving beer culture and connects brewers with enthusiastic beer lovers.
While Kent’s hop farms fell victim to aphids in the early 20th century, the city’s brewing tradition persists. Today, Kent’s craft breweries continue to innovate, paying homage to the area’s hop-growing past while creating new flavors for modern palates.
Prominent Kent Breweries
Kent’s craft beer scene boasts several notable breweries, each offering unique flavors and experiences. These establishments have helped put Kent on the map for beer enthusiasts.
Airways Brewing
Airways Brewing, founded in 2010, has become a Kent staple. Their taproom on 212th Street offers a rotating selection of craft beers, including their popular Sky Hag IPA and Coconut Cream Ale.
The brewery’s aviation-themed decor pays homage to Kent’s aerospace history. Airways also operates a bistro and beer garden, expanding their reach beyond the taproom.
Their commitment to quality has earned them multiple awards, including recognition at the Washington Beer Awards.
Four Horsemen Brewery
Four Horsemen Brewery, established in 2015, has quickly gained a reputation for bold, flavorful beers. Their taproom features a rustic, industrial aesthetic that complements their brewing style.
Signature beers include the Pale Horse Pale Ale and the Dark Horse Porter. Four Horsemen is known for experimental brews and seasonal offerings that keep customers coming back.
The brewery hosts regular events, including trivia nights and food truck partnerships, fostering a strong community atmosphere.
Geaux Brewing
Geaux Brewing brings a taste of New Orleans to Kent. Founded by a Louisiana native, the brewery infuses Southern charm into its craft beers and taproom ambiance.
Their beer lineup includes the popular Treme IPA and Pontchartrain Porter. Geaux is also known for its creative small-batch brews that often incorporate unique ingredients.
The taproom offers a cozy, welcoming environment with Cajun-inspired snacks to complement their beers. Regular live music events add to the New Orleans vibe.
Rail Hop’n Brewing
Rail Hop’n Brewing, one of Kent’s newer additions, has quickly become a local favorite. Their name pays tribute to Kent’s railroad history.
The brewery specializes in hop-forward beers, with their West Coast IPA and Hazy Pale Ale gaining particular acclaim. Rail Hop’n also experiments with sour beers and barrel-aged varieties.
Their family-friendly taproom features a spacious outdoor patio, perfect for summer evenings. The brewery frequently collaborates with local food vendors to offer diverse dining options.
The Brewing Process
Kent’s craft breweries take pride in their meticulous brewing processes. Local ingredients and unique hop profiles are key elements that set these beers apart.
Importance of Local Ingredients
Kent brewers prioritize sourcing ingredients from Washington state. Local malts, hops, and yeasts contribute to distinct flavors and support the regional economy. Many breweries partner with nearby farms to obtain fresh produce for seasonal beers.
Washington-grown barley is a staple in Kent craft brews. Its high quality provides a solid foundation for various beer styles. Local water sources, like the Green River, influence beer character.
Some breweries use foraged ingredients like blackberries or spruce tips. These additions create truly unique, Kent-specific flavors. Using local ingredients also reduces transportation costs and environmental impact.
Crafting Unique Hops Profiles
Kent brewers excel at creating distinctive hop profiles. Washington state is a major hop producer, giving local brewers access to fresh, high-quality hops.
Brewers experiment with hop combinations to develop signature flavors. Common Washington varieties include Cascade, Centennial, and Chinook hops. These impart citrusy, piney notes to Kent’s IPAs and pale ales.
Dry-hopping techniques are popular among Kent craft brewers. This process adds aromatic complexity without increasing bitterness. Some breweries grow their own hops on-site for ultra-fresh flavors.
Kent brewers also explore new hop varieties developed by Washington State University. These experimental hops offer unique flavors and aromas, setting Kent beers apart from mass-produced options.
Types of Craft Beers
Kent’s craft beer scene offers a diverse array of beer styles to suit every palate. Local breweries experiment with traditional recipes and innovative techniques to create unique flavor profiles.
Ales and Lagers
Ales and lagers form the foundation of craft beer offerings in Kent. Ales are fermented at warmer temperatures, resulting in fruity and complex flavors. Popular ale styles include pale ales, brown ales, and wheat beers. Kent breweries often infuse local ingredients to create distinctive ales.
Lagers ferment at cooler temperatures, producing crisp and clean-tasting beers. Pilsners and bocks are common lager styles found in Kent’s craft beer scene. These beers are perfect for those seeking a refreshing drink with subtle flavors.
Many Kent breweries offer seasonal ales and lagers, showcasing the versatility of these beer types. Craft beer enthusiasts can find both traditional recipes and innovative twists on classic styles.
India Pale Ales (IPAs)
IPAs have become a staple in Kent’s craft beer landscape. These hop-forward beers come in various sub-styles, each with its own character. West Coast IPAs dominate local tap lists, featuring intense bitterness and citrusy hop aromas.
New England IPAs, known for their hazy appearance and juicy flavors, have gained popularity among Kent beer drinkers. Local breweries also experiment with fruit-infused IPAs, adding unique flavors to the mix.
Double and Triple IPAs cater to hop enthusiasts seeking bolder flavors and higher alcohol content. Session IPAs offer a lighter alternative for those who enjoy hoppy beers but prefer lower alcohol levels.
Stouts and Porters
Dark beers like stouts and porters round out Kent’s craft beer offerings. These rich, full-bodied beers feature roasted malt flavors with notes of chocolate, coffee, and caramel.
Oatmeal stouts provide a smooth, creamy texture, while imperial stouts pack a punch with higher alcohol content and intense flavors. Some Kent breweries age their stouts in bourbon barrels, adding complexity to the beer.
Porters offer a lighter alternative to stouts, with a focus on dark malt flavors. Coffee porters and chocolate porters are popular variations found in local taprooms. Kent brewers often collaborate with local coffee roasters to create unique coffee-infused beers.
Craft Beer Tasting and Pairing
Kent’s craft beer scene offers diverse flavors and styles to explore. Local breweries and taprooms provide opportunities to sample unique brews and pair them with complementary foods.
Tasting Notes
Craft beers in Kent showcase a range of flavor profiles. Light lagers offer crisp, clean tastes with subtle hop bitterness. Pale ales feature balanced malt sweetness and citrusy hop aromas. IPAs bring bold hop flavors, from piney to tropical fruit notes. Stouts and porters deliver rich roasted malt flavors like coffee and chocolate.
When tasting, observe the beer’s appearance, aroma, flavor, and mouthfeel. Note the color, clarity, and head retention. Swirl and smell to detect aromas. Take small sips to analyze flavors and aftertaste. Pay attention to body, carbonation, and finish.
Food Pairings
Pairing craft beer with food enhances both the brew and the meal. Light lagers complement spicy dishes or salads. Wheat beers pair well with seafood and lighter fare. Pale ales match nicely with burgers, pizza, or mild cheeses. IPAs cut through rich, fatty foods and stand up to bold flavors like curry or BBQ.
Stouts and porters pair excellently with desserts, especially chocolate-based treats. They also complement roasted meats and aged cheeses. Fruit beers can serve as a refreshing counterpoint to savory dishes or accent fruit-based desserts.
Many Kent brewpubs and restaurants offer suggested pairings on their menus. Experimenting with different combinations can lead to delightful flavor discoveries.
Beer Gardens and Taprooms in Kent
Kent, Washington boasts several inviting beer gardens and taprooms for craft beer enthusiasts. Airways Brewing Company’s Bistro & Beer Garden stands out as a popular destination, offering a relaxed outdoor space to enjoy their locally brewed beers.
The Brewmaster’s Taproom provides a cozy indoor setting with an extensive selection of craft beers on tap. This venue frequently rotates its offerings, ensuring a fresh experience for regular patrons.
For those seeking a blend of craft beer and entertainment, Waterland Arcade combines a taproom atmosphere with classic arcade games. This unique concept appeals to both beer aficionados and gaming enthusiasts.
The Local 907 presents another notable option for craft beer lovers in Kent. This establishment focuses on showcasing a variety of regional brews, supporting the local beer scene.
Beer gardens in Kent often feature:
- Outdoor seating areas
- Fire pits for chilly evenings
- Food truck partnerships
- Live music events
Many taprooms in the area also offer:
- Tasting flights
- Growler fills
- Brewery tours (by appointment)
- Seasonal beer releases
These venues contribute to Kent’s growing reputation as a destination for craft beer exploration, attracting both locals and visitors to the city’s diverse beer scene.
Community and Culture
Kent’s craft beer scene fosters a strong sense of community through local events and brewery tours. These offerings bring beer enthusiasts together while showcasing the city’s brewing heritage.
Local Events and Festivals
Kent hosts several beer-focused events throughout the year. The Kent Brewfest, held annually in summer, features over 30 Washington State breweries. Attendees can sample a wide variety of craft beers while enjoying live music and food trucks.
In fall, the Kent Oktoberfest celebrates German-inspired brews and cuisine. Local breweries create special seasonal offerings for this event.
The Airways Brewing Company organizes a monthly “First Friday” gathering. This casual event allows beer lovers to mingle and try new releases in a relaxed setting.
Brewery Tours
Several Kent breweries offer guided tours, providing insights into the brewing process. Airways Brewing Company conducts weekly tours on Saturdays, explaining their unique brewing techniques and beer styles.
Four Horsemen Brewery offers private tours by appointment. Visitors learn about the brewery’s history and sample exclusive small-batch brews.
For a comprehensive experience, the Kent Craft Beer Trail allows enthusiasts to visit multiple breweries. Participants receive a passport to collect stamps at each location, with prizes awarded for completing the trail.
These tours not only educate visitors but also strengthen connections between brewers and beer lovers in Kent.
Supporting Local Businesses
Kent, Washington boasts a thriving craft beer scene with several local breweries and taprooms. Residents and visitors can support these businesses in various ways.
Visiting taprooms and brewpubs is a direct way to engage with local craft beer culture. Many Kent establishments offer tasting flights, allowing patrons to sample multiple brews in one visit.
Purchasing growlers or crowlers to take home extends support beyond on-site consumption. This option lets beer enthusiasts enjoy local flavors at home while contributing to brewery sales.
Following local breweries on social media keeps customers informed about new releases, events, and promotions. Sharing posts and leaving positive reviews helps spread the word about Kent’s craft beer offerings.
Joining brewery mailing lists provides insider information and sometimes exclusive deals. This connection fosters a sense of community between brewers and beer lovers.
Participating in brewery tours, when available, offers insight into the brewing process and strengthens the bond between producers and consumers. These experiences often lead to increased appreciation for the craft.
Gifting local craft beers to friends and family introduces more people to Kent’s brewing scene. This practice expands the customer base for local businesses.
Exploring Beyond Kent
Kent’s craft beer scene is just the beginning. The surrounding areas offer even more diverse brewing experiences, each with its own unique flavors and atmospheres.
Tacoma Brewing
Tacoma Brewing Company stands out for its innovative approach to craft beer. Founded in 2012, this small-batch brewery focuses on experimental flavors and styles. Their taproom, located in downtown Tacoma, features a rotating selection of 12 beers on tap.
Signature brews include the Broken Window IPA and the Citra Showers pale ale. Tacoma Brewing also offers seasonal specialties like their popular summer sour series.
Visitors can enjoy brewery tours on weekends. The taproom hosts regular events, including trivia nights and food truck pop-ups.
Narrows Brewing
Situated on the waterfront, Narrows Brewing boasts stunning views of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. This brewery combines traditional brewing techniques with modern flavors.
Their core lineup includes:
- Giant Pacific Octopus IPA
- Siren’s Call Blonde Ale
- Galloping Gertie Golden Ale
Narrows Brewing’s spacious taproom features indoor and outdoor seating. They offer guided tastings and beer pairing events throughout the year.
The brewery is known for its community involvement, often collaborating with local artists and musicians.
Pacific Brewing
Pacific Brewing & Malting Co. revives a historic Tacoma brand dating back to 1897. This brewery blends heritage with contemporary craft beer trends.
Notable brews:
- 1897 Pale Lager
- Dirty Skoog IPA
- Grit City Porter
The taproom, located in Tacoma’s brewery district, showcases the building’s original brick walls and wooden beams. Pacific Brewing offers brewery tours that highlight both the brewing process and the brand’s rich history.
They frequently host themed events, including vintage beer nights featuring recipes from the early 1900s.
Harmon Brewing
Harmon Brewing Co. is a Tacoma institution, operating since 1997. With multiple locations across the city, Harmon offers a full brewpub experience.
Popular beers include:
- Point Defiance IPA
- Puget Sound Porter
- Mt. Takhoma Blonde Ale
Each Harmon location features a distinct atmosphere, from the historic Harmon Hub to the family-friendly Harmon Tap Room. Their menus focus on locally-sourced ingredients, pairing well with their craft beers.
Harmon Brewing is known for its annual Oktoberfest celebration and regular live music events.
