Denver, Colorado, a city with a skyline dominated by the Rocky Mountains, is equally renowned for its dynamic craft beer scene. The city’s breweries offer a diverse range of styles, from traditional ales to experimental concoctions. In this article, we’ll guide you through the best breweries in Denver, ensuring you experience the pinnacle of Mile High City’s brewing excellence.
Denver Chophouse & Brewery
At Denver Chophouse & Brewery, located at 1735 19th St., Suite 100, brewing excellence meets culinary delight. Known for their 10-barrel system, they provide a variety of beers ranging from light and dark lagers to stouts and fruited sours. Their rotating selection of hoppy ales ensures that every visit offers something new to excite your taste buds.
Great Divide Brewing Co.
Established in 1994, Great Divide Brewing Co. is a pillar of Denver’s beer community. As the city’s oldest and largest packaging brewery, located at 2201 Arapahoe St., it’s revered for its bold and assertive beers. Their Barrel Bar at 1812 35th St. and Road House in Castle Rock are testaments to their expansive reach and popularity.
Jagged Mountain Craft Brewery
Jagged Mountain Craft Brewery, situated at 1139 20th St., pushes the boundaries of craft beer. Their selection of traditional ales and specialty craft beers makes them a favorite among enthusiasts seeking something different and daring.
Raíces Brewing Co.
Raíces Brewing Co. is a Latino-owned brewpub located at 2060 W. Colfax Ave. It stands out for its community focus, offering award-winning craft beers and rotating Latin American cuisine. Their riverside patio provides a unique setting to enjoy their brews.
Reverence Brewing Company
Reverence Brewing Company, located at 1604 E. 17th Ave., offers a neighborhood-friendly atmosphere. Their diverse tap list includes traditional and contemporary beer styles, as well as house-made sodas. Awarded the “Best New Brewery Taproom” by Westword readers in 2021, Reverence is a must-visit for its inclusive vibe and vintage decor.
Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery
Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery, at 16th St. Mall & Curtis St. – 1001 16th St., is the original location of this now well-known chain. Opening in 1993, they continue to offer unique, quality, and on-trend rotating beer offerings in a classic brewpub setting.
Strange Craft Beer Company
As Denver’s first small taproom brewery, Strange Craft Beer Company has been a trendsetter since its inception. Located at 1330 Zuni St., Unit M, it offers an inviting atmosphere with a bar made of reclaimed wood, a spacious outdoor seating area, and a selection of 15 award-winning beers.
Wynkoop Brewing Company
Wynkoop Brewing Company, Colorado’s first brewpub established in 1988 at 1634 18th St., is known for its adventurous brewers. They are famous for their willingness to experiment with ingredients, creating beers that include Rocky Mountain oysters, gummy bears, and green chiles.
Denver’s brewing scene is as varied and vibrant as the city itself. From the pioneering spirit of Wynkoop Brewing Company to the innovative offerings of Raíces Brewing Co., each brewery presents a unique facet of Denver’s craft beer culture. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these breweries is a journey through the heart of Denver’s beer excellence.
FAQs:
Q: What types of beers can I expect to find in Denver’s breweries? A: Denver’s breweries offer a wide range of beer styles, from traditional lagers and ales to experimental brews with unique ingredients.
Q: Are these breweries family-friendly? A: Many breweries in Denver, like Reverence Brewing Company, offer a welcoming atmosphere for all ages, with non-alcoholic options available.
Q: Do Denver breweries offer food? A: Yes, several breweries like Denver Chophouse & Brewery and Raíces Brewing Co. pair their beers with an excellent culinary experience.
Q: Can I find brewery tours in Denver? A: Absolutely. Many breweries, such as Great Divide Brewing Co., offer tours, providing an insight into the brewing process and their unique approaches to craft beer.
If you want dedicated DD/guide, check out these drinking tours: