West Covina, California boasts a thriving craft beer scene that continues to captivate locals and visitors alike. The city’s diverse breweries and taprooms offer a wide array of unique flavors and styles, catering to both novice beer enthusiasts and seasoned connoisseurs. From hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, West Covina’s craft beer selection showcases the creativity and skill of local brewmasters.
Craft beer lovers will find plenty to explore in West Covina, with establishments like Common Corners Brewing and Stone Liquor leading the way. These venues not only serve exceptional brews but also contribute to the city’s vibrant social atmosphere. The craft beer culture in West Covina extends beyond just drinking, as many local restaurants have embraced beer pairings to complement their culinary offerings.
As the craft beer industry continues to evolve, West Covina remains at the forefront of innovation. New breweries and taprooms regularly emerge, adding fresh flavors and experiences to the local beer landscape. Whether one seeks a relaxing evening with friends or a tasting adventure, West Covina’s craft beer scene offers something for everyone.
The Craft Beer Scene in West Covina
West Covina’s craft beer scene has grown significantly in recent years. Local breweries and beer bars offer a diverse range of styles and flavors for beer enthusiasts to explore.
Historical Overview
Craft beer in West Covina emerged as part of the broader craft brewing movement in California. The city’s first microbreweries opened in the early 2010s, inspired by the success of craft beer in neighboring areas. These pioneers faced initial challenges but persevered, laying the foundation for a thriving local beer culture.
As consumer interest grew, more breweries and beer-focused establishments opened their doors. This expansion brought increased variety and quality to West Covina’s beer offerings. Local brewers began experimenting with unique ingredients and brewing techniques, gaining recognition beyond the city limits.
Current Trends
West Covina’s craft beer scene now boasts several notable breweries and taprooms. Campsite Brewing Company and Feathered Serpent Brewery have gained popularity for their innovative brews. Common Corners Brewing and Arrow Lodge Brewing also contribute to the city’s diverse beer landscape.
Local bars and restaurants have embraced craft beer culture. The Republic and Bun Street offer extensive selections of local and regional craft beers. These venues often host tasting events and beer pairing dinners, fostering a sense of community among beer enthusiasts.
West Covina brewers continue to push boundaries with experimental flavors and brewing methods. Many focus on using locally-sourced ingredients, creating beers that reflect the region’s character. The city’s annual beer festivals showcase this creativity, attracting visitors from across Southern California.
Notable West Covina Breweries
West Covina boasts several standout craft breweries that have gained popularity among local beer enthusiasts. These establishments offer unique flavors and experiences, contributing to the city’s growing craft beer scene.
Arrow Lodge Brewing
Arrow Lodge Brewing has made a name for itself in West Covina’s craft beer community. The brewery focuses on creating innovative and flavorful beers using high-quality ingredients. Their taproom provides a welcoming atmosphere for visitors to enjoy their diverse selection of brews.
Arrow Lodge is known for its experimental approach to brewing. They offer a rotating selection of IPAs, sours, and stouts. The brewery’s commitment to quality has earned them a loyal following among craft beer aficionados.
Visitors can expect to find both year-round favorites and seasonal specialties on tap. Arrow Lodge also hosts events and collaborations with other local businesses, fostering a sense of community among beer lovers.
Alosta Brewing Co
Alosta Brewing Co has become a fixture in West Covina’s craft beer landscape. The brewery prides itself on producing a wide range of beer styles to cater to various tastes. Their taproom offers a comfortable space for patrons to sample their latest creations.
Alosta’s beer lineup includes classic styles as well as more adventurous brews. They are particularly known for their well-crafted ales and lagers. The brewery also experiments with fruit-infused beers and barrel-aged varieties.
Patrons can enjoy flights to sample multiple beers or grab growlers to take home. Alosta Brewing Co frequently participates in local events and festivals, showcasing their brews to a wider audience.
Common Corners Brewing
Common Corners Brewing has quickly established itself as a popular destination for craft beer enthusiasts in West Covina. The brewery focuses on creating approachable yet flavorful beers that appeal to a wide range of palates.
Their taproom offers a laid-back environment where visitors can enjoy freshly brewed beers. Common Corners is known for its balanced approach to brewing, offering both traditional and modern beer styles.
The brewery’s core lineup includes crowd-pleasing ales and lagers. They also produce seasonal and limited-release beers throughout the year. Common Corners Brewing has gained recognition for its commitment to quality and consistency in their brewing process.
Styles of Beer on Offer
West Covina’s craft beer scene offers a diverse range of styles to suit various tastes. Local retailers and breweries showcase an impressive selection, focusing on popular categories that cater to both seasoned beer enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Belgians
Belgian-style beers have gained a strong following in West Covina. These brews are known for their complex flavors and unique yeast strains. Local shops stock a variety of Belgian ales, including dubbels, tripels, and saisons.
Trappist-inspired beers are particularly popular, offering rich malt profiles and fruity esters. Many West Covina retailers also feature Belgian witbiers, perfect for the warm California climate.
Some local breweries have embraced Belgian brewing techniques, creating their own interpretations of these classic styles. These homegrown versions often incorporate regional ingredients, adding a distinctive West Coast twist to traditional Belgian recipes.
IPAs
India Pale Ales dominate the craft beer landscape in West Covina. The city’s beer retailers offer an extensive selection of IPAs, ranging from classic West Coast styles to hazy New England variants.
Sierra Nevada IPAs are well-represented, with their Torpedo Extra IPA being a consistent favorite. Local shops also stock a variety of double and triple IPAs for hop enthusiasts seeking bolder flavors.
West Covina’s breweries have embraced the IPA trend, experimenting with different hop varieties and brewing techniques. Many produce their own versions of popular substyles like session IPAs, black IPAs, and fruit-infused IPAs.
Ales
The ale category encompasses a wide range of styles available in West Covina. Pale ales, brown ales, and amber ales are staples in many local beer shops and taprooms.
Craft beer enthusiasts can find excellent examples of English-style ales alongside American interpretations. Alesmith’s Nut Brown Ale is often featured, showcasing the brewery’s skill in crafting traditional styles.
West Covina’s retailers also stock a variety of seasonal ales, such as pumpkin ales in autumn and winter warmers during colder months. Local breweries contribute to this diversity by producing their own unique ale recipes, often incorporating regional flavors and ingredients.
Collaborations and Community
West Covina’s craft beer scene thrives on partnerships and events that bring brewers and beer lovers together. Local establishments forge connections that strengthen the industry while providing unique experiences for enthusiasts.
Local Partnerships
Breweries in West Covina actively collaborate with nearby businesses to create distinctive offerings. The Republic, a popular craft beer destination, often teams up with Pacific Plate Brewing Company to showcase limited-edition brews. These partnerships extend beyond beer production. Local restaurants frequently feature rotating taps from area breweries, supporting the craft beer ecosystem.
Food trucks are common sights at brewery events, offering tasty pairings with the latest releases. Some breweries have formed alliances with local farms, sourcing ingredients for seasonal beers that highlight regional flavors.
Events and Gatherings
West Covina’s craft beer community comes alive through various events throughout the year. Beer festivals attract crowds eager to sample a wide range of local and regional brews. Breweries host tap takeovers, allowing beer enthusiasts to explore offerings from guest brewers.
Educational events are also popular. Tasting workshops and brewing demonstrations give attendees insights into the craft. Trivia nights and live music performances at breweries create lively atmospheres for socializing over pints.
Annual celebrations, like Oktoberfest-inspired gatherings, have become traditions that locals look forward to. These events not only showcase West Covina’s brewing talent but also foster a sense of community among craft beer fans.
Brewery Experience
West Covina offers a range of brewery experiences, from guided tours to hands-on workshops. Visitors can explore local craft beer culture and gain insights into brewing processes.
Tours and Tastings
Several breweries in West Covina open their doors for tours and tastings. Campsite Brewing Company and Arrow Lodge Brewing are popular spots for craft beer enthusiasts. These establishments offer guided tours that provide a behind-the-scenes look at beer production. Visitors can learn about ingredient selection, brewing techniques, and quality control measures.
Tasting sessions allow guests to sample a variety of beer styles. Knowledgeable staff members explain flavor profiles and brewing methods. Some breweries offer flight options, letting patrons try small portions of different beers. This approach helps visitors discover new favorites and understand the nuances of craft brewing.
Brewing Workshops
For those interested in a more hands-on experience, brewing workshops are available. These sessions give participants a chance to learn brewing techniques from experts. Attendees often get to create their own small batch of beer under professional guidance.
Workshops cover topics like ingredient selection, equipment use, and fermentation processes. Participants learn about different beer styles and how to adjust recipes. Some workshops focus on specific techniques, such as dry hopping or barrel aging. These interactive experiences cater to both beginners and more experienced home brewers looking to refine their skills.
Shopping for Craft Beer
West Covina offers several options for craft beer enthusiasts to purchase their favorite brews. Local retailers and specialized liquor stores provide a wide selection of craft beers from various breweries.
Local Retailers
West Covina has several local retailers that stock craft beers. Freeway Liquor is a popular spot known for its impressive selection of craft brews. They offer a diverse range of local and regional options, catering to different taste preferences.
Some grocery stores in the area also carry craft beer selections. These stores often feature both well-known brands and smaller, local breweries. Prices at these retailers can vary, but they generally offer competitive rates for craft beers.
West Covina Liquor and Beer Stores
West Covina Liquor stands out as a top destination for craft beer shopping. This store boasts an extensive collection of craft beers, including hard-to-find varieties and seasonal releases. Their knowledgeable staff can provide recommendations based on customer preferences.
Other notable beer stores in West Covina include:
- Stone Liquor
- Louies Liquor
- Top Hat Beverage Shop
These stores often keep their craft beers refrigerated, ensuring optimal freshness. Prices at specialized liquor stores may be slightly higher than general retailers, but the selection and expertise make them worth visiting for craft beer enthusiasts.
Pairing Food and Beer
Craft beer and food pairings enhance flavors and create memorable dining experiences. West Covina offers diverse options for exploring these combinations.
Restaurant Recommendations
Edna Vees Public House stands out for its craft beer and food pairings. Their menu features dishes specifically designed to complement local brews. The Metro Restobar also excels in this area, offering a rotating selection of beers paired with seasonal dishes.
Craft by Smoke & Fire in nearby Arcadia is known for its barbecue and beer pairings. They often feature beers from Alesmith and Ballast Point, two California breweries with distinct flavor profiles.
Copper Still Grill provides a more upscale pairing experience. Their chefs work closely with local breweries to create innovative food and beer combinations.
Homemade Pairings
Creating beer and food pairings at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. Start by matching intensity levels – light beers with delicate foods, and robust beers with bolder flavors.
IPAs pair well with spicy foods, cutting through the heat. Try pairing a local IPA with Thai or Mexican dishes. Stouts complement rich, chocolate desserts or hearty stews.
For cheese lovers, pair a fruity wheat beer with creamy cheeses like brie or camembert. Alternatively, match a sharp cheddar with a hoppy pale ale.
Experiment with contrasting flavors. A sweet fruit beer can balance salty foods like pretzels or nuts. Sour beers pair surprisingly well with fatty foods, cleansing the palate between bites.
Supporting Local Brewers
West Covina’s craft beer scene thrives on community support. Local breweries like Campsite Brewing Company and Feathered Serpent Brewery offer unique flavors and experiences to beer enthusiasts.
Patrons can support these businesses by visiting taprooms and participating in brewery tours. LA Beer Hop provides guided experiences to multiple breweries, showcasing the diversity of West Covina’s craft beer offerings.
Many local brewers demonstrate expertise through innovative brewing techniques. They often experiment with unique ingredients and flavor combinations, pushing the boundaries of traditional beer styles.
Prices at West Covina breweries are generally competitive, allowing customers to enjoy quality craft beer without breaking the bank. Some establishments offer special deals or memberships to encourage repeat visits.
Local beer festivals and events provide platforms for brewers to showcase their products. These gatherings foster a sense of community and allow beer lovers to sample a wide range of locally-made brews.
Supporting local brewers extends beyond just purchasing their products. Engaging with breweries on social media, leaving positive reviews, and recommending them to friends all contribute to the growth of West Covina’s craft beer industry.
Responsible Enjoyment
West Covina’s craft beer scene offers a wealth of delicious options. Enjoying these brews responsibly is crucial for a positive experience.
Local breweries prioritize safety and moderation. Many provide tasting flights, allowing patrons to sample small portions of different beers without overindulging.
Designated drivers are essential when visiting multiple breweries. Rideshare services and public transportation offer safe alternatives for those planning to drink.
Breweries often partner with local food trucks or restaurants. Pairing food with beer helps slow alcohol absorption and enhances the tasting experience.
Beer education is a key component of responsible enjoyment. Brewery staff possess extensive knowledge about their products and can guide patrons in making informed choices.
Moderation is key. Experts recommend limiting consumption to one or two standard drinks per hour. Staying hydrated by alternating beer with water helps maintain control.
Many West Covina breweries host events promoting responsible drinking. These may include designated driver programs or collaborations with local organizations focused on alcohol awareness.
By embracing these practices, craft beer enthusiasts can fully appreciate West Covina’s vibrant brewing scene while prioritizing safety and well-being.
