Little Rock’s craft beer scene is thriving, with 11 local breweries offering a diverse range of high-quality ales and lagers. The capital city of Arkansas has become a destination for beer enthusiasts seeking unique flavors and experiences. Visitors can explore Little Rock’s beer culture using the Locally Labeled Passport, which guides them through the city’s craft breweries.
Established in 1990, Vino’s Brewpub holds the title of Little Rock’s oldest brewpub. This local favorite combines great beer with pizza and live music, creating a lively atmosphere for patrons. Other popular spots include Lost Forty Brewing and Stone’s Throw Brewing, each contributing to the city’s growing reputation as a craft beer hub.
The Great Arkansas Beer Festival showcases the best of Little Rock’s brewing talent alongside regional and national craft beers. This event, along with the city’s year-round offerings, demonstrates Little Rock’s commitment to fostering a vibrant craft beer community. Beer lovers will find a wide selection of styles, from crisp pilsners to bold IPAs and rich stouts, reflecting the creativity and skill of local brewers.
History of Craft Brewing in Little Rock
Little Rock’s craft beer scene has deep roots dating back to the 19th century. The city’s brewing landscape has evolved significantly, marked by periods of growth, prohibition, and a modern renaissance.
The Rise of Little Rock Breweries
Little Rock’s brewing history began in the late 1800s. The Little Rock Brewing & Ice Company operated from 1898 to 1925, producing beer for nearly two decades before Prohibition. After a long dormancy, the Arkansas Brewing Company briefly revived local beer production in 1984.
The modern craft beer movement in Little Rock took off in 1991 when Arkansas legalized brewpubs. This legislative change paved the way for a new era of brewing innovation and entrepreneurship in the city.
Significant Milestones
Little Rock’s craft beer scene has achieved notable recognition in recent years. Local breweries have earned accolades at prestigious competitions like the Great American Beer Festival and World Beer Cup.
The city now boasts 11 craft breweries, offering a diverse range of high-quality local ales. The introduction of the Locally Labeled Passport program has helped promote Little Rock’s beer tourism, encouraging visitors to explore the city’s vibrant brewing culture.
Annual events like the Great Arkansas Beer Festival showcase the best of Little Rock’s craft beer offerings, further cementing the city’s reputation as a notable brewing destination.
Overview of Little Rock Craft Breweries
Little Rock boasts a thriving craft beer scene with several notable breweries. Each establishment offers unique flavors and experiences for beer enthusiasts. From award-winning ales to experimental brews, the capital city’s beer culture continues to expand and impress locals and visitors alike.
Lost Forty Brewing
Lost Forty Brewing has become a cornerstone of Little Rock’s craft beer scene. Known for their consistent quality and innovative flavors, they offer a wide range of beers to suit various palates. Their flagship Love Honey Bock is a local favorite, combining sweet and smooth notes.
The brewery’s taproom provides a welcoming atmosphere for patrons to enjoy fresh pints and seasonal releases. Lost Forty also serves food, pairing their beers with a menu of locally-sourced dishes.
Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their brewing practices, using Arkansas-grown rice and other local ingredients when possible.
Flyway Brewing
Flyway Brewing draws inspiration from Arkansas’s natural beauty and wildlife. Located in North Little Rock, this brewery offers a diverse selection of beers with creative names reflecting the local fauna.
Their Free Range Brown Ale and Bluewing Berry Wheat are popular choices among regulars. Flyway’s taproom features a relaxed environment where visitors can sample their latest brews.
The brewery also serves a unique food menu, focusing on small plates and sandwiches that complement their beer selection. Flyway’s outdoor seating area is a hit during warmer months, providing a perfect spot for enjoying a cold brew.
Stone’s Throw Brewing
Stone’s Throw Brewing brings a neighborhood brewpub feel to Little Rock’s beer scene. Located in the historic MacArthur Park district, this small-batch brewery focuses on creating artisanal beers with a local touch.
Their Amadeus Vienna Lager and Shamus Stout have gained recognition among craft beer enthusiasts. The cozy taproom offers a rotating selection of beers on draft, allowing patrons to try new and experimental brews regularly.
Stone’s Throw frequently collaborates with local businesses and organizations, hosting events that bring the community together. Their commitment to the area is evident in their involvement with local charities and fundraisers.
Diamond Bear
Diamond Bear Brewing Company holds the distinction of being one of Arkansas’s first craft breweries. Established in 2000, they’ve played a significant role in shaping Little Rock’s beer culture.
Their award-winning Southern Blonde and Pale Ale have become staples in many local bars and restaurants. Diamond Bear’s taproom, known as the Arkansas Ale House, offers tours and tastings for those interested in learning about the brewing process.
The brewery takes pride in using traditional brewing methods and high-quality ingredients. Their commitment to craft has earned them multiple medals at national beer competitions.
Vino’s Brewpub
Vino’s Brewpub combines craft beer, pizza, and live music to create a unique Little Rock experience. As the city’s oldest brewpub, Vino’s has been serving house-made beers since 1993.
Their Rainbow Wheat and Pinnacle IPA are longstanding favorites among patrons. The brewpub’s casual atmosphere makes it a popular spot for both beer aficionados and casual drinkers.
Vino’s regularly hosts local bands, contributing to Little Rock’s music scene. Their thin-crust pizzas and calzones pair well with their diverse beer selection, making it a go-to spot for a night out.
Types of Craft Beers
Little Rock’s craft beer scene offers a diverse range of styles to suit every palate. From hop-forward ales to rich dark beers and unique seasonal creations, local breweries showcase their creativity and skill.
IPAs and Pale Ales
IPAs reign supreme in Little Rock’s craft beer landscape. These hop-centric brews range from classic West Coast styles to hazy New England variants. Many local breweries feature signature IPAs with bold citrus and pine flavors.
Pale Ales provide a more balanced alternative. They offer a harmonious blend of malt sweetness and hop bitterness. Victory Pale Ale from Diamond Bear Brewing has become a local favorite.
Some breweries experiment with fruit-infused versions. These combine traditional pale ale characteristics with added fruit flavors for a refreshing twist.
Stouts and Porters
Dark beer enthusiasts find plenty to enjoy in Little Rock. Stouts and porters showcase roasted malt flavors with notes of coffee and chocolate.
Pig Trail Porter from Diamond Bear exemplifies the style. It offers a smooth, full-bodied experience with hints of caramel and cocoa.
Several breweries produce seasonal variations. These might include oatmeal stouts for added creaminess or imperial versions with higher alcohol content.
Some local establishments age their stouts in bourbon barrels. This process imparts complex whiskey and oak flavors to the beer.
Seasonal and Limited Editions
Little Rock breweries excel at creating unique seasonal offerings. These beers often incorporate local ingredients and reflect the changing Arkansas seasons.
Summer brings refreshing options like Little Red Strawberry Lager. This fruit-forward beer uses locally grown strawberries for a crisp, thirst-quenching profile.
Fall sees the release of pumpkin ales and Oktoberfest-style lagers. Winter ushers in strong, warming brews like barleywines and winter warmers.
Many breweries produce small-batch experimental beers. These limited editions allow brewers to showcase their creativity and offer beer enthusiasts new flavor experiences.
The Craft Beer Experience
Little Rock’s craft beer scene offers a diverse range of flavors and experiences. Local breweries showcase their unique creations through inviting taprooms, carefully curated beer flights, and thoughtful food pairings.
Tasting Rooms and Taprooms
Little Rock’s breweries pride themselves on welcoming taprooms that immerse visitors in the craft beer culture. Lost Forty Brewing, a local favorite, features a spacious tasting room with a rustic-industrial ambiance. Visitors can enjoy a pint while observing the brewing process through large windows.
Stone’s Throw Brewing offers a more intimate setting in their cozy taproom. The friendly staff is always ready to share their knowledge about the brewing process and beer styles.
Flyway Brewing’s taproom stands out with its nature-inspired decor, reflecting the brewery’s commitment to environmental conservation.
Beer Flights and Sampling
Beer flights are an excellent way to explore Little Rock’s craft beer variety. Most breweries offer tasting paddles with 4-6 samples of their signature brews.
Diamond Bear Brewing Company, known for its award-winning beers, provides guided tastings. Their knowledgeable staff helps visitors understand the nuances of each beer style.
Vino’s Brewpub, the oldest active brewery in Arkansas, offers a unique sampling experience. Patrons can try their house-brewed beers alongside their famous New York-style pizza.
Food Pairings and Cuisine
Many Little Rock breweries have embraced the food and beer pairing trend. Lost Forty Brewing’s kitchen serves elevated pub fare designed to complement their beers.
Flyway Brewing focuses on small plates and shareable dishes that pair well with their bird-themed brews. Their duck nachos have become a local favorite.
Guy Fieri featured Vino’s Brewpub on his show “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” highlighting their combination of craft beer and New York-style pizza. The brewery’s cheesy slices are the perfect match for their hoppy ales.
Brood & Barley offers a more upscale dining experience, with a menu crafted to enhance their beer selection.
Events and Festivals
Little Rock’s craft beer scene comes alive through various events and festivals throughout the year. The Arkansas Times Craft Beer Festival stands out as a premier celebration of local brews.
Held annually in March, this festival showcases over 100 craft beers from regional and national breweries. Attendees can sample a wide range of styles, from IPAs to sours and even non-alcoholic options.
The festival takes place at Argenta Plaza in North Little Rock, benefitting the Argenta Arts District. It offers a perfect opportunity to taste new releases and connect with brewers.
Little Rocktoberfest is another notable event for beer enthusiasts. This fall festival features unlimited beer samples from commercial and homebrew offerings, along with traditional German fare.
While not local, the Great American Beer Festival and World Beer Cup are significant events that Little Rock breweries often participate in. These competitions provide national and international recognition for outstanding beers.
Many Little Rock breweries also host their own events throughout the year, including tap takeovers, beer releases, and seasonal celebrations. These smaller gatherings allow beer lovers to experience the local craft scene up close.
Supporting Local: The Economic Impact
Craft breweries in Little Rock play a significant role in boosting the local economy. These establishments create jobs across various sectors, from brewers and servers to delivery drivers and suppliers.
The impact extends beyond direct employment. Local breweries often source ingredients from nearby producers, stimulating regional agriculture and manufacturing industries.
In 2019, the craft brewing industry contributed $82.9 billion to the U.S. economy and provided over 580,000 jobs nationwide. This demonstrates the substantial economic potential of supporting local breweries.
Little Rock’s craft beer scene contributes to community development through events and collaborations. For example, some breweries organize fundraisers and volunteer initiatives that benefit local causes.
Brewpubs in Little Rock serve as gathering spaces, attracting both residents and tourists. This increased foot traffic can benefit neighboring businesses, creating a ripple effect of economic growth.
Supporting local breweries keeps money circulating within the community. When consumers choose locally brewed craft beer, a larger portion of their spending remains in Little Rock’s economy compared to purchasing from large national brands.
By patronizing Little Rock’s craft breweries, beer enthusiasts contribute to a thriving local industry. This support helps ensure the continued growth and innovation of the city’s craft beer scene.
Beyond Beer: Distilleries in Little Rock
Little Rock’s craft alcohol scene extends beyond beer to include notable distilleries. Rock Town Distillery stands out as a pioneer in the local spirits industry.
Founded by Phil Brandon, Rock Town Distillery was the first legal distillery in Arkansas since Prohibition. It has become a staple of Little Rock’s craft beverage landscape.
Rock Town produces an award-winning lineup of spirits, including whiskeys, vodkas, and gins. Visitors can tour the facility and sample craft cocktails made with their house-distilled liquors.
The distillery’s central location makes it easily accessible for those exploring Little Rock’s drink scene. It’s within walking distance of other popular craft beverage spots.
While craft brewing dominates much of the local alcohol industry, Rock Town Distillery proves that Little Rock has more to offer discerning drinkers. Its success has paved the way for other distilleries in the area.
Craft spirits enthusiasts visiting Little Rock should make Rock Town Distillery a priority stop. The distillery showcases the city’s ability to produce high-quality, artisanal spirits alongside its renowned craft beer offerings.
