Norman, Oklahoma has emerged as a vibrant hub for craft beer enthusiasts. The city’s local brewing scene has grown significantly in recent years, offering a diverse array of flavors and styles to satisfy discerning palates. From innovative taprooms to established brewpubs, Norman boasts a rich selection of craft beer destinations that showcase the creativity and passion of local brewers.
Visitors and residents alike can explore a variety of breweries, each with its own unique character and specialty brews. 405 Brewing Co. made history by opening Norman’s first brewery taproom, setting the stage for a thriving craft beer community. Other notable establishments like Lazy Circles Brewing and Crossed Cannons Brewery have since joined the ranks, contributing to the city’s reputation as a craft beer destination.
The Norman craft beer scene reflects the city’s blend of history and innovation. Local brewers often draw inspiration from Oklahoma’s heritage while experimenting with non-traditional brewing methods and ingredients. This commitment to quality and creativity has put Norman on the map for beer aficionados seeking new and exciting flavors in a welcoming, small-city atmosphere.
History of Craft Beer in Norman
Norman’s craft beer scene has evolved significantly over the years, with local breweries playing a key role in shaping the city’s beer culture. The growth of craft brewing in Norman reflects broader trends in the industry while maintaining a distinct local character.
The Growth of Local Breweries
Norman’s craft beer journey gained momentum in recent years. The city’s first brewery taproom opened in February, marking a pivotal moment for the local beer scene. This milestone reflected growing consumer interest in craft beer and changing alcohol laws that allowed for on-site consumption.
Prior to this development, Norman beer enthusiasts had limited options for enjoying locally brewed craft beer. The opening of the first taproom sparked a wave of excitement and paved the way for other breweries to follow suit.
Notable Breweries in Norman’s History
405 Brewing Co. stands out as a pioneer in Norman’s craft beer landscape. Founded by Trae Carson and Jonathan Stapleton, the brewery introduced innovative brewing techniques to the city. Their approach, dubbed “Liquid Art,” emphasizes creativity and non-traditional methods.
Lazy Circles Brewing emerged from a passion for homebrewing. The founders, recognizing the community’s desire for local craft beer experiences, established a taproom focused on serving Norman residents.
These breweries have contributed to Norman’s growing reputation as a craft beer destination. They offer unique flavors and styles, often drawing inspiration from local ingredients and cultural influences.
Guide to Norman’s Craft Breweries
Norman’s craft beer scene has blossomed in recent years, offering a diverse range of flavors and experiences. Local breweries have become hubs for beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike, each bringing its unique approach to brewing.
Lazy Circles Brewing
Lazy Circles Brewing stands out for its commitment to quality and creativity. The brewery offers a rotating selection of beers, from classic styles to innovative experiments. Their taproom provides a cozy atmosphere for patrons to enjoy fresh pints.
Signature beers include a crisp pilsner and a bold IPA. Lazy Circles often collaborates with local businesses, incorporating regional ingredients into special releases. The brewery hosts regular events, including live music and food truck partnerships.
Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the brewing process. Lazy Circles’ beers are also available in cans at local retailers.
Black Mesa Brewing
Black Mesa Brewing brings a taste of adventure to Norman’s beer landscape. Named after the highest point in Oklahoma, the brewery infuses its beers with a sense of local pride.
Their flagship ale, Black Mesa Blonde, has won multiple awards. The brewery specializes in approachable yet flavorful beers, appealing to both newcomers and seasoned craft beer fans.
Black Mesa’s taproom features rustic decor, reflecting Oklahoma’s natural beauty. Regular trivia nights and beer pairing dinners add to the brewery’s community-focused atmosphere.
Crossed Cannons Brewery
Crossed Cannons Brewery combines military heritage with craft brewing expertise. Founded by veterans, the brewery pays homage to service members through its branding and beer names.
Their popular Howitzer Honey Wheat offers a smooth, easy-drinking option. For hop lovers, the Trench Warfare IPA delivers a bold flavor profile.
The taproom’s decor includes military memorabilia, creating a unique ambiance. Crossed Cannons frequently hosts events supporting veteran causes and local charities.
405 Brewing
405 Brewing Co. holds the distinction of opening Norman’s first brewery taproom. Founders Trae Carson and Jonathan Stapleton focus on non-traditional brewing methods, dubbing their creations “Liquid Art.”
Signature beers include the FDR imperial stout and the pineapple-flavored Magic Whip. The brewery’s experimental approach results in a constantly evolving tap list.
405’s taproom offers a modern, industrial aesthetic. Patrons can enjoy exclusive releases and take beer to go. The brewery’s innovative spirit has helped shape Norman’s craft beer identity.
Beer is Good Brewing Company
Beer is Good Brewing Company embraces a straightforward approach to craft beer. Their motto, “Beer is Good,” reflects their focus on creating accessible, enjoyable brews.
The brewery offers a core lineup of classic styles, including a refreshing lager and a robust porter. Seasonal releases showcase local ingredients and flavors.
Beer is Good’s taproom features a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Board games and outdoor seating encourage patrons to linger and socialize.
Equity Brewing Co.
Equity Brewing Co. stands out for its commitment to diversity and inclusion in the craft beer industry. The brewery actively promotes underrepresented groups in brewing through its hiring practices and community initiatives.
Their beer lineup includes both traditional and experimental styles. Popular offerings range from a crisp kolsch to a complex barrel-aged stout.
Equity’s taproom hosts regular events celebrating diverse cultures and communities. The brewery’s ethos of inclusivity extends to its beer names and label designs.
Big Brewing Co.
Big Brewing Co. lives up to its name with bold flavors and ambitious brewing projects. The brewery specializes in high-ABV beers and innovative flavor combinations.
Signature brews include a potent triple IPA and a rich imperial stout. Big Brewing also excels in barrel-aging, producing limited-release beers with complex profiles.
The taproom features an industrial chic design with ample seating. Guided tastings help patrons navigate the brewery’s diverse and often strong offerings.
Brewpubs and Restaurants with Craft Beer
Norman’s craft beer scene extends beyond breweries to include several brewpubs and restaurants offering excellent beer selections. These establishments combine great food with quality brews, catering to both culinary enthusiasts and beer aficionados.
The Standard
The Standard stands out as a premier destination for craft beer lovers in Norman. This gastropub offers an extensive selection of local and regional craft beers on tap, rotating regularly to keep the menu fresh and exciting.
The atmosphere is upscale yet welcoming, with a modern industrial design that creates a perfect setting for enjoying quality brews. Their knowledgeable staff can provide recommendations to pair beers with their innovative menu items.
The Standard’s food menu features elevated pub fare, using locally-sourced ingredients when possible. Popular dishes include gourmet burgers, artisanal pizzas, and unique appetizers that complement their beer offerings.
Local Pizza and Brewpub Spots
Norman boasts several pizza joints that double as craft beer havens. These establishments combine two beloved staples – pizza and beer – creating perfect spots for casual gatherings or relaxed dinners.
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse offers a wide range of house-brewed beers alongside their extensive pizza menu. Beer enthusiasts can try their Brewhouse Blonde ale, Jeremiah Red ale, or Oasis Amber ale while enjoying specialty pizzas.
Local favorites like Bison Witches Bar & Deli also feature impressive craft beer selections to accompany their pizza offerings. These spots often host tap takeovers and beer-pairing events, fostering a vibrant craft beer community in Norman.
Many of these pizza and brewpub spots offer outdoor seating, creating a lively atmosphere for enjoying a slice and a pint during Oklahoma’s pleasant evenings.
The Brewing Process
Craft beer production in Norman, OK follows time-honored techniques blended with innovative approaches. Local brewers carefully select ingredients and employ precise methods to create unique flavor profiles.
From Grain to Glass
The brewing process begins with milling malted grains, typically barley. These grains are mixed with hot water in a mash tun, extracting fermentable sugars. The resulting liquid, called wort, is then boiled with hops to add bitterness and aroma.
After boiling, the wort is rapidly cooled and transferred to fermentation tanks. Yeast is added at this stage to begin the fermentation process. Norman’s brewers often experiment with different grain bills and hop varieties to create distinctive flavors.
Some local breweries, like 405 Brewing Co., use non-traditional brewing methods to infuse creativity into their beers. This approach allows for unique flavor combinations and brewing styles.
Fermentation and Maturation
Fermentation is a critical phase where yeast converts sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide. This process typically lasts 1-2 weeks, depending on the beer style. During fermentation, brewers carefully monitor temperature and pressure to ensure optimal yeast activity.
After primary fermentation, many craft brews undergo a maturation period. This can involve secondary fermentation, dry hopping, or aging in barrels. The duration varies based on the desired flavor profile and beer style.
Norman’s craft breweries often use this stage to add local ingredients or experiment with aging techniques. Some beers may be conditioned for weeks or months to develop complex flavors and aromas.
Temperature control is crucial during maturation. Brewers use specialized equipment to maintain ideal conditions, ensuring consistency and quality in their final product.
Types of Craft Beers
Norman’s craft beer scene offers a diverse array of styles to suit every palate. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, the local breweries showcase their skill in crafting unique and flavorful beers. American pale ales provide a balanced option, while Irish stouts and other varieties round out the selection.
Exploring IPAs
India Pale Ales (IPAs) dominate the craft beer landscape in Norman. These hop-forward beers come in various sub-styles, each with distinct characteristics. West Coast IPAs feature bold bitterness and citrus notes. New England IPAs offer a juicy, hazy profile with tropical fruit flavors. Double or Imperial IPAs pack a punch with higher alcohol content and intense hop aromas.
Local breweries often experiment with single-hop IPAs, showcasing specific hop varieties. Some popular IPA variations include:
- Session IPAs (lower alcohol content)
- Black IPAs (dark malts added)
- Fruit-infused IPAs (brewed with real fruit)
Discovering Stouts
Stouts bring rich, roasted flavors to Norman’s craft beer scene. These dark beers range from dry to sweet, with varying levels of bitterness. Oatmeal stouts offer a smooth, creamy texture. Coffee stouts incorporate locally roasted beans for an extra caffeine kick. Imperial stouts boast higher alcohol content and complex flavors.
Barrel-aged stouts are a special treat, often aged in whiskey or bourbon barrels for added depth. Some breweries create seasonal stouts with unique ingredients like:
- Chocolate
- Vanilla
- Pumpkin spice
These bold beers pair well with Norman’s winter weather and hearty cuisine.
American Pale Ale
American Pale Ales (APAs) strike a balance between malty sweetness and hop bitterness. These amber-colored beers offer a more approachable entry point for craft beer newcomers. APAs typically feature citrus and pine hop notes, with a moderate alcohol content.
Norman’s breweries often put their own spin on this classic style. Some variations include:
- Dry-hopped APAs for enhanced aroma
- Session APAs with lower alcohol content
- Fruit-forward APAs using local ingredients
These versatile beers pair well with a variety of foods, making them popular choices at Norman’s brewpubs and restaurants.
Irish Stout and Other Varieties
Irish stouts bring a taste of the Emerald Isle to Norman’s craft beer scene. These dry, roasted beers offer a creamy mouthfeel and subtle coffee notes. Many local breweries create their own interpretations of this classic style.
Beyond Irish stouts, Norman’s craft breweries experiment with a wide range of beer styles:
- Belgian-inspired ales (saisons, tripels)
- German lagers (pilsners, bocks)
- Sour beers (goses, Berliner weisses)
- Fruit beers and ciders
This diverse selection ensures that beer enthusiasts can always find something new and exciting to try in Norman’s thriving craft beer community.
Visiting a Brewery
Brewery visits offer a unique opportunity to experience craft beer production firsthand and sample fresh brews. These experiences provide insights into the brewing process and local beer culture.
What to Expect at a Tasting Experience
Tasting experiences at breweries like 405 Brewing Co. in Norman typically involve sampling a variety of beers. Visitors can expect flight options featuring 4-6 small pours of different brews. Staff often provide information about each beer’s flavor profile, ingredients, and brewing techniques.
Many taprooms offer exclusive or limited-release beers not available elsewhere. For example, 405 Brewing Co. is known for creative flavors like their pineapple-infused Magic Whip and the robust FDR imperial stout.
Taprooms usually have a relaxed atmosphere, encouraging conversation and beer appreciation. Some may offer food options or allow outside food to complement the beer tasting experience.
Tips for a Brewery Tour
Brewery tours provide an educational look at the beer-making process. Visitors should wear closed-toe shoes for safety in production areas. It’s advisable to book tours in advance, especially for smaller breweries like those in Norman.
Questions are encouraged during tours. Asking about ingredients, brewing methods, and the brewery’s history can enhance the experience. Tours often end with a tasting, so pacing oneself is important.
Taking notes or photos (if allowed) can help remember favorite beers. Many breweries offer merchandise or to-go options for visitors to enjoy their preferred brews at home.
Supporting Local
Norman’s craft beer scene bolsters the local economy and enriches community culture. Local breweries create jobs, attract tourism, and foster a sense of pride among residents.
The Economic Impact of Craft Brewing
Craft breweries in Norman generate significant economic benefits. They create direct employment opportunities for brewers, servers, and managers. Additionally, these businesses support indirect jobs in related industries like agriculture, packaging, and distribution.
Local breweries contribute to Norman’s tax base, helping fund essential services and infrastructure improvements. They also attract beer enthusiasts from surrounding areas, boosting tourism and revenue for nearby restaurants, hotels, and shops.
Many Norman breweries source ingredients locally, supporting Oklahoma farmers and producers. This practice strengthens regional supply chains and promotes sustainable agriculture.
Community and Cultural Contributions
Norman’s craft beer scene plays a vital role in shaping the city’s cultural identity. Local breweries often serve as community gathering spaces, hosting events that bring people together and foster social connections.
Many Norman breweries collaborate with local artists, musicians, and charities, enriching the city’s creative and philanthropic landscape. These partnerships result in unique beer labels, live performances, and fundraising initiatives that benefit various causes.
Craft breweries frequently participate in local festivals and events, showcasing Norman’s culinary and brewing talent. This involvement helps promote the city’s reputation as a destination for food and drink enthusiasts.
Some Norman breweries have gained recognition for their award-winning beers, elevating the city’s profile in the wider craft beer community. These accolades bring positive attention to Norman and inspire other local brewers to innovate and excel.
Pairing and Culinary Experiences
Norman’s craft beer scene offers exciting opportunities for pairing and cooking with local brews. The city’s bars and restaurants showcase innovative ways to combine flavors and enhance dining experiences.
Craft Beer and Food Pairing
Norman’s craft breweries and restaurants have embraced beer and food pairings. 405 Brewing Co. offers tasting flights that complement small plates, highlighting how different beer styles enhance various flavors. Local bars like The Winston feature rotating tap lists paired with gourmet burgers and appetizers.
Equity Brewing hosts pairing events, matching their unique brews with dishes from local chefs. These events educate patrons on how to pair beers with different cuisines. Popular pairings include:
- IPAs with spicy foods
- Stouts with chocolate desserts
- Wheat beers with light salads and seafood
Cooking with Craft Beer
Norman’s culinary scene incorporates local craft beers into recipes. Restaurants like Scratch Kitchen & Cocktails use beer in marinades, sauces, and batters. Home cooks can find recipes and tips at local breweries’ websites or during cooking demonstrations at beer festivals.
Beer adds depth to dishes like:
- Beer-battered fish using light lagers
- Stout-braised short ribs
- IPA-infused cheese dips
Local liquor stores offer cooking classes that teach techniques for cooking with different beer styles. These classes help home chefs understand how to balance beer’s bitterness, sweetness, and carbonation in recipes.
