Sacramento has emerged as a craft beer powerhouse in recent years. The capital city now boasts over 50 breweries, offering beer enthusiasts an impressive array of options to explore. From award-winning brews to family-friendly taprooms, Sacramento’s craft beer scene has something for everyone.
Many of the city’s top breweries are conveniently located within walking distance of downtown hotels, making it easy for visitors to sample local flavors. Urban Roots Brewing & Smokehouse, Fieldwork Brewing Company, and Alaro Craft Brewery are just a few of the standout establishments in the heart of Sacramento. These breweries not only serve exceptional beers but also offer unique dining experiences and inviting atmospheres.
For those willing to venture beyond the city center, neighboring towns and scenic routes to regional landmarks often reveal hidden brewing gems. Device Brewing Company, with its three locations throughout Sacramento, exemplifies the region’s commitment to quality craft beer production. The combination of innovative brewers, supportive local community, and California’s agricultural bounty has created a thriving beer culture that continues to evolve and excite both residents and visitors alike.
History of Sacramento’s Brewing Culture
Sacramento’s brewing heritage spans over 150 years, with roots tracing back to the Gold Rush era. The city’s craft beer scene has experienced tremendous growth in recent decades, building on a rich legacy of local hop cultivation and beer production.
Origins of Craft Brews in the Capital
Sacramento’s brewing history began in the mid-19th century. By the 1890s, the region had become a major hop-growing center, supplying brewers across the nation.
Herman Grau established Buffalo Brewing at 21st and Q streets in 1890, marking an important milestone. This location later became home to The Sacramento Bee newspaper.
Before Prohibition, thousands of acres of local hops fueled a thriving brewing industry. The city’s agricultural prowess provided an ideal foundation for beer production.
In recent years, Sacramento has experienced a craft brewing renaissance. The number of local breweries exploded from just six to over sixty in about a decade.
Ruhstaller Brewery and Its Legacy
Frank Ruhstaller played a pivotal role in Sacramento’s brewing history. In 1881, he opened Ruhstaller Brewery, his third brewing venture in the city.
Ruhstaller’s impact extended beyond his own operations. His legacy inspired the modern Ruhstaller Beer brand, which pays homage to Sacramento’s brewing roots.
The original Ruhstaller Brewery helped establish Sacramento as a notable brewing center in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Today, Ruhstaller Beer continues to celebrate local ingredients and brewing traditions, connecting Sacramento’s past with its vibrant present-day craft beer culture.
Navigating Sacramento’s Craft Breweries
Sacramento’s craft beer scene offers a diverse range of breweries throughout the city and its suburbs. From downtown hotspots to hidden gems on the outskirts, beer enthusiasts can explore a variety of unique flavors and atmospheres.
Breweries in Central Sacramento
Urban Roots Brewing stands out as a top-rated brewery in downtown Sacramento. Known for its innovative beers and tasty food menu, it’s a must-visit for craft beer lovers.
Nearby, New Helvetia Brewing Company offers a cozy taproom experience with a focus on locally-inspired brews. Their historical building adds charm to the tasting experience.
Device Brewing Company’s taproom in Midtown provides a modern, industrial setting to sample their popular IPAs and stouts. The central location makes it easy to pair with other downtown activities.
Exploring the Outskirts: Suburban Breweries
Venture beyond the city center to discover noteworthy suburban breweries. New Glory Craft Brewery in East Sacramento impresses with its wide selection of experimental beers and spacious tasting room.
Oak Park Brewing Co., located in the historic Oak Park neighborhood, combines quality craft brews with a family-friendly atmosphere. Their outdoor patio is perfect for sunny Sacramento days.
In nearby Rancho Cordova, Claimstake Brewing Company offers a rotating tap list of creative small-batch beers. The industrial park location provides ample space for brewing and tasting alike.
Unique Brews and Innovative Brewing Techniques
Sacramento’s craft beer scene thrives on creativity and experimentation. Local brewers push boundaries with inventive recipes and methods, crafting distinctive IPAs, robust stouts, and other innovative styles that capture the city’s brewing spirit.
Experimenting with IPAs and Stouts
Sacramento breweries excel in IPA and stout innovation. Many local establishments craft unique IPAs using unconventional hop combinations and brewing techniques. Some infuse their IPAs with tropical fruit notes or experiment with dry-hopping methods for enhanced aroma profiles.
Stouts receive equal attention, with brewers incorporating ingredients like locally-roasted coffee, vanilla beans, and even chili peppers. Barrel-aging has become popular, imparting complex flavors to these dark, rich beers.
Track 7 Brewing Company stands out for its artisanal approach, using high-quality ingredients to create distinctive brews. Their commitment to innovation has earned them recognition in craft beer circles.
The Art of Sacramento’s Microbreweries
Sacramento’s microbreweries showcase remarkable creativity in their brewing practices. Many draw inspiration from Belgian, English, and German traditions while adding unique local twists.
Three Mile Brewing in Davis exemplifies this approach, earning accolades for their IPAs at the California State Fair. Their success highlights the region’s brewing prowess.
High Water Brewing demonstrates versatility with offerings like the invigorating Monkey Knife Fight and the smooth Vienna Lager. This range appeals to diverse palates and reflects the depth of Sacramento’s beer culture.
Bike Dog Brewing caters to both craft beer enthusiasts and dog lovers, creating a distinctive brand identity within the local scene. Their focus on community engagement adds another layer to their brewing philosophy.
Experiencing Sacramento’s Beer Festivals
Sacramento’s craft beer scene shines brightest during its vibrant beer festivals. These events bring together local breweries, beer enthusiasts, and curious newcomers for unforgettable tasting experiences.
The Sacramento Brewers Showcase stands out as a premier event. Held at Heart Health Park, it features unlimited pours from over 20 local breweries. Attendees can sample a wide range of craft beers while enjoying live music and food truck offerings.
Sacramento Beer Week is another highlight on the beer festival calendar. This week-long celebration showcases the city’s thriving craft beer culture through various events and special releases at local breweries and bars.
For those seeking a more intimate experience, many Sacramento breweries host their own smaller festivals throughout the year. These events often feature special releases, food pairings, and opportunities to meet the brewers.
Beer festivals in Sacramento typically offer:
- Tasting tickets or unlimited pours
- Food vendors or pairings
- Live music or entertainment
- Commemorative glassware
- Opportunities to meet local brewers
When attending Sacramento beer festivals, it’s advisable to:
- Plan transportation in advance
- Stay hydrated
- Pace yourself to fully enjoy the experience
- Take notes on favorite beers for future reference
Sacramento’s beer festivals provide an excellent opportunity to explore the city’s craft beer scene and connect with fellow enthusiasts in a lively, celebratory atmosphere.
The Best Beer Locations
Sacramento boasts an impressive array of craft beer destinations offering diverse tap selections, inviting outdoor spaces, and delectable food options. Beer enthusiasts can explore a variety of atmospheres to enjoy their favorite brews.
Beer Gardens and Tap Selection
Capitol Beer and Tap Room stands out as a premier destination for craft beer lovers. With an extensive rotating tap list, it offers a wide range of local and regional brews. The knowledgeable staff provides excellent recommendations based on individual preferences.
Pangaea Bier Cafe is another notable spot, known for its carefully curated selection of craft beers. The cafe features both local favorites and hard-to-find international options. Its cozy interior creates a welcoming atmosphere for patrons to savor their drinks.
Many Sacramento breweries have on-site taprooms showcasing their latest creations. These spaces often provide tasting flights, allowing visitors to sample multiple beers in one sitting.
Top Spots for Outdoor Seating and Food Trucks
Several Sacramento beer gardens combine outdoor seating with an impressive tap selection. These venues offer a relaxed environment to enjoy craft beers in the fresh air.
Food trucks frequently partner with local breweries and beer gardens, providing a diverse culinary experience. This collaboration allows patrons to pair their favorite brews with gourmet street food options.
Some popular outdoor beer spots feature spacious patios with ample seating. These areas often include shade structures and heaters, ensuring comfort in various weather conditions.
Many venues host regular events like live music or trivia nights, adding entertainment to the beer-drinking experience. These gatherings foster a sense of community among craft beer enthusiasts.
Guide to Food and Beer Pairings
Sacramento’s craft beer scene pairs perfectly with the city’s renowned farm-to-fork cuisine. Local breweries and restaurants collaborate to create unique dining experiences that highlight the best of both worlds.
Craft Beer and Dining Experience
Sacyard Taphouse offers an excellent example of craft beer and food pairing. Their menu features dishes specifically designed to complement their rotating beer selection. Patrons can enjoy wood-fired pizzas with hoppy IPAs or savor rich stouts alongside decadent desserts.
Many Sacramento breweries host food trucks, providing a casual dining experience with ever-changing culinary options. This allows beer enthusiasts to explore diverse flavor combinations.
Some restaurants, like Selland’s Market Café, offer curated beer lists to match their menu items. Diners can seek recommendations from knowledgeable staff to enhance their meals with the perfect brew.
Farm-to-Fork: Pairings with Local Cuisine
Sacramento’s Farm-to-Fork Celebration showcases the region’s agricultural bounty and craft beer scene. During this event, local chefs collaborate with brewers to create unique pairings that highlight seasonal ingredients.
Restaurants like Hoptology Beer Lab + Kitchen emphasize using locally sourced ingredients in their dishes. They offer beer flights paired with small plates, allowing diners to experience how different beer styles complement various flavors.
Craft breweries often incorporate local produce into their beers, creating unique seasonal brews. These pair exceptionally well with dishes featuring the same ingredients, offering a true taste of Sacramento’s terroir.
Profiles of Noteworthy Sacramento Breweries
Sacramento’s craft beer scene boasts several standout breweries that have made significant impacts. These establishments blend innovation, community engagement, and quality brewing to create unique experiences for beer enthusiasts.
New Helvetia Brewing Company: A Standout Story
New Helvetia Brewing Company has carved out a niche in Sacramento’s beer landscape. Founded in 2012, this brewery pays homage to the city’s history through its name and beer offerings. Their taproom, located in Midtown Sacramento, features a rotating selection of craft beers.
New Helvetia’s flagship Buffalo Craft Lager has become a local favorite. The brewery also experiments with seasonal and limited-release beers, showcasing their creativity. They’ve gained recognition for their commitment to using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.
Community involvement is a key aspect of New Helvetia’s identity. The brewery regularly hosts events and collaborates with local businesses, fostering a strong connection with Sacramento residents.
Track 7 Brewing Company: The Engine of Innovation
Track 7 Brewing Company has become synonymous with innovation in Sacramento’s beer scene. Established in 2011, the brewery has expanded to multiple locations across the city. Their name draws inspiration from Sacramento’s railroad heritage.
Track 7’s Panic IPA has gained widespread acclaim, helping to put Sacramento on the craft beer map. The brewery is known for pushing boundaries with unique flavor combinations and brewing techniques. They offer a diverse range of styles, from hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts.
Sustainability is a priority for Track 7. They’ve implemented eco-friendly practices in their brewing process and packaging. The brewery’s taprooms serve as community hubs, hosting regular events and food truck partnerships.
Oak Park Brewing: Reviving a Neighborhood
Oak Park Brewing has played a significant role in the revitalization of Sacramento’s Oak Park neighborhood. Founded in 2014, the brewery quickly became a cornerstone of the local community. Their taproom, housed in a historic building, reflects the area’s character.
The brewery’s beer lineup features a mix of traditional styles and innovative creations. Oak Park’s Citra IPA has gained popularity among hop enthusiasts. They also offer a rotating selection of seasonal brews that showcase local ingredients.
Oak Park Brewing’s impact extends beyond beer. The brewery has been instrumental in organizing community events and supporting local initiatives. Their success has helped attract other businesses to the area, contributing to Oak Park’s ongoing renaissance.
Emerging Stars in the Sacramento Craft Beer Scene
Sacramento’s craft beer landscape continues to evolve with exciting new breweries pushing boundaries and delighting beer enthusiasts. These rising stars are making waves with innovative flavors and techniques.
Alaro Craft Brewery and the New Age of Beer
Alaro Craft Brewery has quickly become a standout in Sacramento’s beer scene. Founded in 2018, this brewery focuses on creating unique flavor profiles using locally-sourced ingredients.
Their flagship IPA, “Castillo,” showcases bright citrus notes with a balanced hop bitterness. Alaro’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their brewing practices and eco-friendly taproom design.
Head brewer Chris Keeton brings years of experience to craft small-batch beers that consistently impress locals and visitors alike. The brewery’s modern approach to traditional styles has earned them multiple awards at regional beer competitions.
Urban Roots Brewing & Smokehouse: Perfecting the Craft
Urban Roots Brewing & Smokehouse has carved out a niche by pairing exceptional beers with mouthwatering barbecue. Opened in 2018, this brewery-restaurant combo has become a favorite among Sacramento beer lovers.
Their diverse tap list features everything from crisp lagers to bold stouts. The “Luna de Miel” honey ale, made with locally-sourced honey, exemplifies their commitment to using regional ingredients.
Urban Roots’ barrel-aging program has produced standout beers like their bourbon barrel-aged imperial stout, “Nightfall.” The brewery’s dedication to quality and innovation has quickly established them as a must-visit destination in Sacramento’s beer scene.
The Ascent of Tilted Mash Brewing
Tilted Mash Brewing has rapidly gained a following since opening its doors in nearby Elk Grove. This small-batch brewery focuses on creating bold, flavorful beers that push creative boundaries.
Their “Killer Kviek” series showcases Norwegian farmhouse yeast strains, producing unique fruity esters in various styles. Tilted Mash’s willingness to experiment has resulted in intriguing brews like their “Peanut Butter Jelly Crime” ale.
Despite their modest size, Tilted Mash has made a big impact on the local beer community. Their taproom offers a rotating selection of innovative beers, drawing craft beer enthusiasts from across the Sacramento region.
Sustainable Brewing and Local Ingredient Sourcing
Sacramento’s craft breweries are embracing eco-friendly practices and supporting local agriculture. This approach not only enhances the quality of their beers but also reduces environmental impact and strengthens community ties.
The Green Philosophy of Craft Beers
Sacramento brewers are adopting sustainable practices to minimize their ecological footprint. Many use energy-efficient brewing equipment and implement water conservation measures. Some breweries have installed solar panels to power their operations, while others focus on reducing waste through recycling and composting programs.
Packaging choices also reflect this green philosophy. Several local breweries opt for recyclable cans or refillable growlers instead of single-use bottles. Some even encourage customers to bring their own containers for takeaway beer.
Carbon footprint reduction is another priority. Breweries are optimizing their distribution routes and using electric vehicles for local deliveries when possible.
Highlighting Local Hops and Barley
Sacramento’s craft brewers are tapping into the region’s agricultural bounty. They source hops, barley, and other ingredients from nearby farms, supporting local growers and reducing transportation emissions.
This farm-to-glass approach results in fresher ingredients and unique flavor profiles that reflect Sacramento’s terroir. Some breweries even cultivate their own hop gardens or collaborate with farmers to grow specific varieties.
Local sourcing extends beyond core ingredients. Brewers incorporate regional fruits, herbs, and spices into seasonal and specialty beers, creating distinctive offerings that showcase Sacramento’s agricultural diversity.
By prioritizing local ingredients, breweries strengthen the local economy and create a more resilient food system. This practice also allows for greater transparency in the brewing process, as customers can trace the origins of their beer’s components.
