Burlington Craft Breweries: A Guide to Local Brews

Burlington, a charming city nestled on the shores of Lake Champlain, boasts a burgeoning craft brewery scene that has become a beacon for beer aficionados. The area’s unique geography and rich agricultural surroundings contribute to the diverse flavors found in Burlington craft breweries. From hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts, each brewery tells its own story through its carefully crafted beers. This guide will take you through the must-visit breweries, highlighting local favorites and the experiences that make Burlington a premier destination for craft beer lovers.

Key Takeaways

• Burlington craft breweries offer a wide range of unique and flavorful beers.
• Each brewery has its own distinct styles, contributing to a diverse beer landscape.
• Brewery tours and tastings provide engaging ways to learn about the brewing process.
• Local beer festivals offer opportunities to explore new flavors and meet fellow beer enthusiasts.

1. Switchback Brewing Company: A local Favorite

Switchback Brewing Company is a must-visit for any craft beer enthusiast in Burlington. Established in 2002, this brewery has quickly become a beloved local favorite. Known for its full-flavored ales, Switchback focuses on traditional brewing methods while offering a unique twist on classic styles. One of their standout brews is the Switchback Ale, a smooth and hoppy amber ale that’s both refreshing and robust.

What sets Switchback apart is its commitment to quality ingredients and sustainable practices. They prioritize local sourcing whenever possible, helping to support the Vermont economy. Visitors can enjoy the taproom experience, where a rotating selection of beers is available, along with brewery tours to learn more about the brewing process.

Pro Tip: Be sure to try their seasonal brews—they often feature unique flavors that highlight local ingredients.

Where to eat: Pair your Switchback brew with a meal from Hen of the Wood, known for its farm-to-table approach and delicious local dishes.

2. Foam Brewers: Crafting Innovative Flavors

Foam Brewers is celebrated for its innovative and experimental approach to craft brewing. Located near the banks of Lake Champlain, this brewery takes pride in pushing the boundaries of traditional styles. From fruity IPAs to sour ales, Foam is constantly crafting bold flavors that delight beer aficionados. The Foam IPA is a customer favorite, offering a perfect balance of bitterness and tropical fruit notes.

Furthermore, the brewery’s airy taproom provides stunning views of the lake, making it an ideal spot to relax with a cold brew. Foam also hosts various events and live music, creating a vibrant community atmosphere. It’s a place where creativity meets community passion.

Don’t miss their limited-release and experimental brews, which often sell out quickly!

Where to eat: For a great food pairing, check out Lucky Next Door, which serves delicious tacos and other bites perfect for enjoying alongside a Foam beer.

3. Zero Gravity Brewery: Taste the Tradition

Zero Gravity Brewery boasts a rich history and a dedication to quality craft brewing. Since its founding, it has become synonymous with Vermont beer culture. Known for their American-style ales, Zero Gravity’s flagship beer, Green State Lager, is a refreshing choice that celebrates local ingredients and brewing traditions.

Beyond lagers, they offer a variety of seasonal and limited-time releases that showcase their creativity. The brewery also embodies a sense of community, often collaborating with local farms and businesses to source ingredients. Visitors can enjoy guided tastings and brewery tours to get an insider’s view of the brewing process.

Pro Tip: Make sure to try their barrel-aged beers for a special treat!

Where to eat: Consider stopping by The Farmhouse Tap & Grill for hearty American fare to complement your Zero Gravity brew.

4. Burlington Beer Company: A Community-Focused Brewery

Burlington Beer Company is celebrated not just for its excellent craft beers but also for its commitment to the local community. Established with the motto “Drink Fresh. Drink Local,” this brewery prioritizes quality and sustainability. Their talented team of brewers focuses on innovative recipes that reflect the essence of Vermont’s brewing culture.

Among their standout offerings, the “Belly shiner” is a must-try, featuring flavorful hoppy notes. Furthermore, the brewery sources quality ingredients from local farmers, ensuring each sip supports the community. The atmosphere is welcoming, where local artists often showcase their work, allowing guests to connect with the region’s vibrant culture.

Pro Tip: Enjoy a tasting flight to explore the variety of ales and lagers offered, and engage with the friendly staff for recommendations.

Where to eat: Pair your brew with local food at the Farmhouse Tap & Grill, known for its farm-to-table menu that complements Burlington’s craft breweries.

5. Citizen Cider: Where Craft Beer Meets Cider

Citizen Cider stands out as a unique gem in Burlington’s brewing scene, where craft beer enthusiasts can also enjoy delicious ciders. This innovative brewery crafts its ciders using fresh, local apples sourced from Vermont orchards, offering a refreshing twist on traditional craft beverages.

Their flagship “Unified Press” cider is a refreshing favorite, showcasing a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Moreover, Citizen Cider often releases seasonal varieties, adding to the excitement of each visit. The inviting taproom is a great place to sample a flight or enjoy a cider cocktail, making it a perfect stop for cider lovers.

Did you know? Citizen Cider frequently hosts events and food pairings to bring the local community together.

Where to eat: Check out the Blue Mallard for a delightful meal that pairs perfectly with their ciders, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

6. The Alchemist: Home of Heady Topper

The Alchemist has gained international fame for its flagship beer, Heady Topper, often hailed as one of the best IPAs in the world. Located just outside Burlington, this small brewery has made a significant impact on the craft beer scene. Their commitment to quality and freshness is evident; Heady Topper is only sold in cans, ensuring its taste is preserved.

The Alchemist also produces a range of other beers that embody Vermont’s essence. The “Focal Banger”, a deliciously balanced IPA, is another top pick for visitors. Despite its rapid growth, the brewery maintains a friendly, laid-back atmosphere, welcoming beer enthusiasts from all walks of life.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the chance to visit the brew pub; their rotating seasonal taps are worth the try!

Where to eat: Pair your Alchemist brews with food from the Hen of the Wood, a local spot known for its innovative dishes that complement the brewery’s craft beers.

7. Lost Nation Brewing: Well-Balanced Brews

Lost Nation Brewing is a standout destination among burlington craft breweries. Known for its commitment to balanced flavors, this brewery emphasizes quality and craftsmanship in every pint. They produce a range of classic and innovative beers, ensuring there’s something for every palate. Signature brews like the Lost Nation Rye IPA and German-style Kölsch showcase their ability to blend traditional techniques with modern brewing trends.

Moreover, the brewery has a rustic taproom where visitors can enjoy the fresh brews right from the source. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a perfect spot for beer enthusiasts. Transitioning from one beer style to another is a delightful experience, especially with regularly rotating seasonal options.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss their beer flights, which let you sample multiple flavors and find your favorite!

Where to eat: Pair your Lost Nation brews with local bites at American Flatbread, where wood-fired pizzas complement their craft beers beautifully.

8. Fiddlehead Brewing Company: Nature-Inspired Selection

Fiddlehead Brewing Company is renowned for its nature-inspired beers, featuring burlington craft breweries in a unique light. They focus on sustainable practices to create a smaller environmental footprint. Their flagship beer, the Fiddlehead IPA, has received accolades for its vibrant hop profile and refreshing taste, making it a popular choice among beer lovers.

Visitors often rave about the brewery’s scenic location, surrounded by beautiful landscapes, which enhance the overall tasting experience. Fiddlehead embraces a philosophy of harmony, integrating natural elements into their brewing process, making each sip a reflection of Vermont’s rich ecosystem.

Pro Tip: Enjoy a tasting in their outdoor patio space during warmer months for the best experience!

Where to eat: For a great meal nearby, try Duino Duende for an eclectic mix of artisanal dishes that pair well with Fiddlehead’s selection.

9. Goodwater Brewery: Craft with a View

Goodwater Brewery stands out among burlington craft breweries for its stunning views and solid craft beers. Nestled along the shores of Lake Champlain, Goodwater offers both great brews and a picturesque setting. Their menu features a variety of styles, from bright pale ales to rich stouts, all crafted with care. The Goodwater IPA is a crowd favorite, known for its smooth balance and hoppy aromas.

Moreover, the brewery’s outdoor seating area provides a relaxing environment to enjoy your drink while taking in the scenic views of the lake and mountains. Goodwater focuses on community engagement, often hosting local events and gatherings.

Pro Tip: Check their calendar for live music events and food trucks that frequently visit!

Where to eat: Pair your brews with local pretzels or sandwiches from Craft Beer Cellar for a perfect day by the water.

10. Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales: Sour Meets Funky

Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales is a must-visit when exploring burlington craft breweries. This brewery specializes in sour ales, known for their unique and sophisticated flavors. Each sip offers an unexpected taste experience, which is a result of traditional brewing methods combined with creative experimentation.

The ambiance at Jolly Pumpkin is warm and inviting, making it a great spot to relax with friends. Notable brews include the Oro de Calabaza, a golden sour ale with hints of tartness and spice, and the La Roja, a darker brew with notes of caramel and oak. Visitors are often amazed by how these sour beers complement a variety of dishes.

Pro Tip: Try pairing one of their sours with a sharp cheese to fully appreciate the flavor harmony!

Where to drink: You can enjoy these delightful brews right at the Jolly Pumpkin Burlington location, which features a cozy taproom, outdoor seating, and a rotating selection of food trucks for a perfect day out.

11. Craft Brewery Tours: Guided Experiences in Burlington

Embarking on a guided craft brewery tour in Burlington elevates your experience of discovering local brews. These tours typically include visits to multiple breweries, allowing you to sample a variety of beers while learning about the brewing process. Furthermore, knowledgeable guides provide insight into the history and culture of Burlington’s craft beer scene.

Most tours last about three hours and include transportation, making it easy to enjoy tastings without worrying about driving. Visitors get the chance to meet brewers, see the equipment, and get a behind-the-scenes look at how their favorite beers are created.

Did you know? Many tours also offer the opportunity to pair brews with local snacks or cheese!

To book a tour, check out companies like Burlington Beer Tours and Vermont Brewery Tours, which are known for their friendly service and excellent itineraries.

12. Local Beer festivals: Celebrate Craft Culture

Burlington hosts vibrant local beer festivals that celebrate the craft beer culture. These festivals are great opportunities to explore the wide variety of beers available in the area. Typically held in the spring and fall, events like the Burlington Beer Company’s Annual Fest showcase both established and emerging breweries, allowing attendees to sample numerous brews in one place.

Besides beer tastings, festivals often feature live music, food vendors, and opportunities to participate in interactive brewing workshops. It’s a chance to meet fellow craft beer enthusiasts and discover new favorites.

Pro Tip: Arrive early to avoid long lines and maximize your sampling experience!

Be sure to check local event calendars for dates, as these festivals often sell out quickly. It’s an event that anyone visiting Burlington should not miss!

13. Pairing Local Brews with Burlington’s Cuisine

Burlington is not only famous for its craft breweries but also for its vibrant food scene. The combination of burlington craft breweries and local cuisine creates a delightful gastronomic experience. Pairing a refreshing IPA with locally sourced dishes can elevate flavor profiles and enhance your meal. For example, a citrusy IPA pairs beautifully with grilled fish, complementing the dish’s natural flavors.

Pro Tip: For an adventure in pairing, try different beer styles with various local dishes to discover surprising matches.

Also, consider indulging in a rich stout alongside chocolate desserts—this combination amplifies the sweetness and richness of the chocolate. Many breweries like Foam Brewers or Zero Gravity Brewery offer tasting rooms with partnerships with local restaurants, making it easier to find perfect food and beer pairings.

Where to eat: For great pairings, visit Hen of the Wood for upscale dining, or American Flatbread for delicious wood-fired pizzas, both featuring local brews on their menus.

14. Sustainable Practices: The Eco-Friendly Side of Burlington Breweries

Sustainability plays a significant role in the ethos of burlington craft breweries. Many breweries are committed to reducing their environmental impact through various innovative practices. For instance, several breweries use renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, to power their operations. Moreover, local breweries like Lost Nation Brewing prioritize recycling and composting, ensuring that waste is minimized.

Did you know? Some breweries even create partnerships with local farms to utilize spent grain for animal feed, promoting a circular economy.

Not only do they focus on eco-friendly production methods, but many breweries also source local ingredients. This practice not only supports local farmers but also reduces transportation emissions. When visiting Burlington, you can enjoy the knowledge that the craft beer you’re sipping is not only delicious but also sustainably produced.

15. Seasonal Brews: What to Try Throughout the Year

One of the exciting aspects of burlington craft breweries is their seasonal brews that reflect the changing landscape. In the spring, look for light lagers and fruity wheat beers that are perfect for warmer weather. For summer, many breweries release pale ales with bright hop flavors that pair well with outdoor activities.

Seasonal challenges at breweries inspire creative brewing techniques and unique flavors!

As autumn rolls in, enjoy spiced ales and pumpkin brews that warm you up. Lastly, winter brings rich, dark beers, such as stouts and porters, perfect for cozying up by the fire.

Where to explore seasonal offerings: Check out The Alchemist for their renowned Heady Topper, or visit Fiddlehead Brewing Company for limited-release seasonal specialties. Each season presents a new opportunity to experience Burlington’s rich craft brewing culture!

Burlington’s craft breweries embody the spirit of innovation and local pride. With a vast array of unique and flavorful brews, accompanied by the stunning backdrop of Lake Champlain, it’s an ideal destination for any craft beer enthusiast. Plan your visit, embark on a tasting journey, and don’t forget to share your favorite finds or experiences in Burlington’s vibrant brewing scene!

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