Colorado is known for its stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and vibrant cities. But it’s also a top destination for beer lovers. With over 400 breweries scattered throughout the state, Colorado offers a unique and diverse beer scene that attracts visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re a craft beer connoisseur or just enjoy a cold brew on a sunny patio, brewery hopping in Colorado is an experience not to be missed.

Key Takeaways

  • Brewery hopping in Colorado is a must-do for beer lovers, with a wide range of breweries to explore.
  • Colorado has a rich history of beer, dating back to the 1800s and the gold rush era.
  • From Denver to Fort Collins, there are many top breweries to visit in Colorado, each with their own unique offerings.
  • Beer enthusiasts can enjoy a tasting guide to Colorado’s best beers, including IPAs, stouts, and more.
  • Behind the scenes at Colorado’s top breweries, visitors can learn about the art of beer making and the brewing process.

The History of Beer in Colorado

Beer has a long and rich history in Colorado, dating back to the days of the Gold Rush in the mid-1800s. The first brewery in the state, Rocky Mountain Brewery, was established in 1859 in Denver. Over the years, Colorado’s beer industry grew and evolved, with key events and milestones shaping its development.

One of the most significant events in Colorado’s brewing history was the legalization of homebrewing in 1979. This change in legislation paved the way for the craft beer revolution that would take place in the following decades. In 1979, Boulder Beer Company became the first craft brewery in Colorado and the second in the United States.

Top Breweries to Visit in Colorado

When it comes to brewery hopping in Colorado, there are countless options to choose from. Some of the must-visit breweries include Great Divide Brewing Company in Denver, Avery Brewing Company in Boulder, and New Belgium Brewing Company in Fort Collins.

Great Divide Brewing Company is known for its bold and flavorful beers, with standout offerings like Yeti Imperial Stout and Titan IPA. The brewery also offers tours and tastings, allowing visitors to get a behind-the-scenes look at their brewing process.

Avery Brewing Company is a favorite among beer enthusiasts for its innovative and experimental brews. From their flagship beer, White Rascal Belgian-Style White Ale, to their barrel-aged series, Avery pushes the boundaries of traditional beer styles.

New Belgium Brewing Company is one of the largest craft breweries in the country and is famous for its flagship beer, Fat Tire Amber Ale. The brewery’s sustainability efforts, including their commitment to being 100% employee-owned and their focus on renewable energy, have also made them a leader in the industry.

Colorado’s Best Beers

Colorado is known for its wide variety of beer styles, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and everything in between. Some of the must-try beers in the state include Odell Brewing Company’s 90 Shilling Ale, Left Hand Brewing Company’s Milk Stout Nitro, and Ska Brewing’s Modus Hoperandi IPA.

Odell Brewing Company’s 90 Shilling Ale is a classic Scottish-style ale with a smooth and malty flavor profile. It’s a great beer to enjoy on a chilly Colorado evening.

Left Hand Brewing Company’s Milk Stout Nitro is a creamy and smooth stout with notes of chocolate and coffee. The addition of nitrogen gives it a velvety mouthfeel that sets it apart from other stouts.

Ska Brewing’s Modus Hoperandi IPA is a hop lover’s dream. With its bold citrus and pine flavors, this IPA is sure to satisfy any hophead.

The Art of Beer Making

Behind every great beer is a skilled brewer and a carefully crafted brewing process. Colorado’s top breweries take pride in their craft and use unique techniques and equipment to create their signature brews.

The brewing process typically starts with milling the grains, which are then mixed with hot water to extract sugars. This mixture, known as the mash, is then transferred to a lauter tun where the liquid, called wort, is separated from the grain husks.

The wort is then boiled and hops are added at different stages to impart bitterness, flavor, and aroma. After boiling, the wort is cooled and transferred to a fermentation vessel where yeast is added. The yeast consumes the sugars in the wort and produces alcohol and carbon dioxide.

Pairing Beer with Food

Colorado’s brewery scene isn’t just about the beer – it’s also about the food. Many breweries in the state have their own restaurants or partner with local food trucks to offer delicious food options that pair perfectly with their beers.

When it comes to beer and food pairing, there are a few principles to keep in mind. First, consider the intensity of both the beer and the food. Lighter beers, like pilsners or wheat beers, pair well with lighter dishes like salads or seafood. On the other hand, heavier beers, like stouts or porters, can stand up to heartier dishes like burgers or barbecue.

Some of the best brewery restaurants in Colorado include Falling Rock Tap House in Denver, Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery in Boulder, and Equinox Brewing in Fort Collins.

The Rise of Craft Beer in Colorado

The craft beer industry has seen tremendous growth in Colorado over the past few decades. Today, there are over 400 breweries in the state, ranging from small neighborhood brewpubs to large production facilities.

One of the key players in Colorado’s craft beer scene is the Brewers Association, a trade organization that represents small and independent craft brewers. The association hosts events like the Great American Beer Festival, which attracts beer enthusiasts from all over the country.

Exploring Colorado’s Beer Culture

In addition to brewery hopping, there are plenty of other ways to immerse yourself in Colorado’s beer culture. The state is home to numerous beer festivals, events, and tours that offer unique experiences for beer lovers.

One of the most popular beer festivals in Colorado is the Great American Beer Festival, held annually in Denver. This three-day event features over 800 breweries from across the country and offers attendees the chance to sample a wide variety of beers.

Another unique beer-related experience in Colorado is the Denver Beer Trail. This self-guided tour takes you through some of the city’s best breweries, allowing you to explore different neighborhoods and discover new beers along the way.

Sustainability in Brewing

Colorado’s breweries are not only focused on creating great beer, but also on being environmentally responsible. Many breweries in the state have implemented sustainable brewing practices and initiatives to reduce their environmental impact.

Some of the sustainable brewing practices used by Colorado breweries include water conservation, energy efficiency, and waste reduction. For example, many breweries have implemented water-saving measures like recirculating water systems and using steam condensate for cleaning.

Tips for Planning Your Ultimate Brewery Hopping Adventure in Colorado

If you’re planning a brewery hopping adventure in Colorado, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, do your research and make a list of the breweries you want to visit. With over 400 breweries in the state, it can be overwhelming to try and visit them all.

Next, consider the logistics of your trip. Colorado is a large state, so it’s important to plan your route and allow enough time to travel between breweries. Consider staying in different cities or regions to maximize your brewery hopping experience.

Finally, don’t forget to pace yourself. With so many great beers to try, it can be tempting to overindulge. Make sure to drink plenty of water and eat food throughout the day to stay hydrated and avoid getting too intoxicated.
Brewery hopping in Colorado is a beer lover’s dream come true. With its rich brewing history, top-notch breweries, and diverse beer styles, Colorado offers a unique and exciting beer scene that is sure to satisfy any palate. So grab a pint, hit the road, and explore all that Colorado has to offer for beer enthusiasts. Cheers!