Denver, Colorado, is often referred to as the “Napa Valley of Beer,” and for good reason. With over 150 breweries in the metro area, Denver is a craft beer lover’s paradise. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, the city offers an incredible variety of breweries, each with its own unique flair and exceptional brews. Here’s a curated list of what we believe are the best breweries in the greater Denver area, complete with insights into their standout beers, what makes them special, and why they deserve a spot on your must visit list.
Great Divide Brewing Company
Website: https://www.greatdivide.com/
Location: Denver, CO (Multiple locations, including the original taproom on Arapahoe Street)
Why They’re Great: A pioneer in Denver’s craft beer scene, Great Divide has been brewing award-winning beers since 1994. Their commitment to quality and innovation has earned them numerous accolades, including multiple Great American Beer Festival (GABF) medals. Great Divide’s taproom offers a behind the scenes look at their brewing process, and their barrel-aged series is worth trying for fans of bold, experimental flavors.
Beers to Try:
- Yeti Imperial Stout: A rich, complex stout with notes of chocolate, coffee, and caramel.
- Titan IPA: A well balanced IPA with a citrusy hop profile and a smooth finish.
Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project
Website: https://www.crookedstave.com/
Location: Denver, CO (The Source Hotel + Market Hall)
Why They’re Great: Crooked Stave is renowned for its focus on wild and sour ales, using Brettanomyces yeast and oak barrel aging to create complex, funky, and tart beers. Their dedication to sour and wild ales sets them apart in a sea of IPAs and stouts. The taproom’s industrial-chic vibe and rotating food trucks make it a great spot to hang out.
Beers to Try:
- Surette Provision Saison: A farmhouse ale with a refreshing, earthy flavor.
- Nightmare on Brett: A dark sour ale aged in oak barrels with cherries.
New Belgium Brewing Company
Website: https://www.newbelgium.com/
Location: Fort Collins, CO (with a Denver taproom in the River North Art District)
Why They’re Great: As one of the largest and most influential craft breweries in the U.S., New Belgium is a household name. Their Denver taproom brings the same passion for sustainability and community that made them famous. New Belgium is employee-owned and deeply committed to environmental sustainability. Their Denver location features a rooftop patio with stunning views of the city.
Beers to Try:
- Fat Tire Amber Ale: A classic, malty amber ale with a cult following.
- Voodoo Ranger IPA: A juicy, hop-forward IPA with tropical fruit notes.
Ratio Beerworks
Website: https://ratiobeerworks.com/
Location: Denver, CO (RiNo District)
Why They’re Great: Ratio Beerworks combines a love for music, community, and great beer. Their taproom is a hub for creativity and connection, with a focus on approachable yet innovative brews. Ratio’s taproom often hosts live music and events, making it a lively spot to enjoy a pint. Their beers are named after songs, adding a fun, thematic twist.
Beers to Try:
- Domestic: A light, easy-drinking ale perfect for any occasion.
- Dear You: A French-style saison with a delicate, floral aroma.
TRVE Brewing Company
Website: https://www.trvebrewing.com/
Location: Denver, CO (Broadway)
Why They’re Great: TRVE (pronounced “true”) is a heavy metal inspired brewery that pairs its love for music with exceptional craft beer. Their small batch approach ensures every beer is crafted with care. The brewery’s heavy metal aesthetic and vibe make it a standout destination. Their sour and wild ale program is particularly impressive, offering a unique twist on traditional styles.
Beers to Try:
- Cursed: A tart, funky sour ale with a crisp finish.
- STOUT O))): A rich, roasty stout with hints of dark chocolate and coffee.
Comrade Brewing Company
Website: https://comradebrewing.com/
Location: Denver, CO (South Quebec Street)
Why They’re Great: Comrade Brewing is known for its award winning IPAs and commitment to quality. They’ve won multiple GABF medals, including a gold for their flagship IPA. Comrade’s focus on community and camaraderie is evident in their welcoming taproom and friendly staff. Their beers are consistently excellent, making them a local favorite.
Beers to Try:
- Superpower IPA: A citrusy, hop-forward IPA with a clean finish.
- More Dodge Less RAM: A malty red ale with a balanced hop profile.
Odell Brewing Co.
Website: https://www.odellbrewing.com/
Location: Denver, CO (Sloan’s Lake)
Why They’re Great: Odell is a Colorado classic, known for its innovative and high quality beers. Their Denver outpost brings the same passion and creativity that made them famous in Fort Collins. The Sloan’s Lake location features a sprawling patio with views of the lake, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a beer on a sunny day. Their small batch pilot system allows for unique, experimental brews.
Beers to Try:
- 90 Shilling Ale: A smooth, malty amber ale with a touch of sweetness.
- Drumroll APA: A tropical, hop-forward pale ale with a crisp finish.
Cerebral Brewing
Website: https://cerebralbrewing.com/
Location: Denver, CO (East Colfax)
Why They’re Great: Cerebral Brewing is a science inspired brewery that combines creativity and precision to craft exceptional beers. Their focus on IPAs, saisons, and stouts has earned them a loyal following. Cerebral’s taproom has a sleek, modern vibe, and their rotating taps ensure there’s always something new to try. Their experimental brews push the boundaries of traditional styles.
Beers to Try:
- Rare Trait: A juicy, hazy IPA with tropical fruit notes.
- Here Be Monsters: A rich, barrel-aged imperial stout.
Denver Beer Co.
Website: https://denverbeerco.com/
Location: Denver, CO (Multiple locations, including Platte Street and South Downing Street)
Why They’re Great: Denver Beer Co. is a local favorite, known for its approachable beers and laid-back atmosphere. Their commitment to quality and community shines through in every pint. Denver Beer Co.’s dog-friendly patios and lively vibe make it a great spot to relax with friends. Their seasonal releases are always worth trying.
Beers to Try:
- Princess Yum Yum: A fruity, refreshing raspberry kolsch.
- Graham Cracker Porter: A smooth, malty porter with hints of vanilla and cinnamon.
Woods Boss Brewing Company
Website: https://www.woodsbossbrewing.com/
Location: Downtown Denver, CO
Why they’re Great: Located in the lively Five Points neighborhood, Woods Boss Brewing Company offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with a rustic charm. Their rotating tap list ensures there’s always something new to try. The brewery’s name and theme are inspired by the outdoors and forestry, making it the perfect place for nature lovers and adventurers.
Beers to Try:
- The Oswald: Their flagship beer is a smooth and well balanced amber ale.
- Overland IPA: For IPA lovers, this is a must-try, featuring a bright citrus aroma and a hoppy bite.
Final Thoughts
Denver’s craft beer culture is rich with history, passion, and innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or just starting your journey into the world of craft beer, these breweries offer something special for every palate. Be sure to explore, taste, and enjoy the incredible brews that make Denver a top beer destination in the country.
Obviously, it was difficult to narrow down such a huge field of great breweries in the area, and greatness is subjective. If we left your favorite Denver area brewery off the list, please tell us about it in the comments below.
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