Top Vermont Breweries You Need to Visit

Vermont breweries have carved a niche in the heart of beer aficionados around the world. Known for their innovative approaches, the breweries scattered throughout this picturesque state offer a diverse array of flavors and styles. From the aromatic hoppy IPAs to the masterfully crafted lagers, these breweries aren’t just about beer; they represent the local culture, environmental stewardship, and culinary creativity. This guide will take you through some of the best breweries in Vermont, shining a spotlight on their unique offerings and why they stand out in a fiercely competitive industry. Whether you’re a seasoned beer lover or just starting your hop-filled journey, our curated list will help you discover what makes Vermont an esteemed brewing haven.

Foam Brewers

Nestled along the waterfront of Burlington, Foam Brewers is renowned for its rotating lineup of small-batch beers. The brewery is a haven for those looking for an artistic and experimental approach to brewing. From their wildly popular hazy IPAs to decadent porters, Foam Brewers know how to keep the locals and visitors coming back for more. Their commitment to quality is evident in every pint, with a brewing process that emphasizes balance and flavor. The atmosphere at Foam Brewers is just as appealing as its beverages. With an inviting patio overlooking Lake Champlain and regular live music sessions, it has become a popular gathering spot in Burlington. The brewery also emphasizes community and sustainability, frequently collaborating with local artists and hosting a variety of cultural events.

Black Flannel Brewing Company

Nestled in Essex Junction, Black Flannel Brewing Company elevates the craft beer experience with a combination of exceptional brews and gourmet cuisine. This brewery is not just about producing quality beer; it’s about creating memorable experiences. They focus on a diverse brew portfolio, including Belgian ales, traditional lagers, and contemporary IPAs, all crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Black Flannel Brewing Company also prides itself on being a craft distillery. Their dual commitment to beer and spirits offers a unique avenue for lovers of both to explore an extensive tasting journey. Paired with a farm-to-table dining concept, a visit to Black Flannel is a robust sensory experience well-suited for all connoisseurs.

Zero Gravity Craft Brewery

Situated in Burlington, Zero Gravity Craft Brewery has become synonymous with originality and exquisite taste. Known for their wide variety of beers ranging from crisp lagers to robust stouts, Zero Gravity has carved out a loyal following. Their flagship beer, Conehead IPA, remains a staple for many, delivering a perfectly balanced hop profile that is both refreshing and remarkably flavorful. Sustainability drives Zero Gravity, placing a strong emphasis on sourcing local ingredients and minimizing waste. Their taproom, adorned with contemporary decor, is a nod to minimalist design, providing an ideal setting for enjoying a meticulously crafted brew. Add to that their strong community involvement through charity events and responsible sourcing, and Zero Gravity emerges as one of the pillars of Vermont’s brewing ecosystem.

Hill Farmstead Brewery

Tucked away in the rural town of Greensboro Bend, Hill Farmstead Brewery offers a tranquil escape with beers that are internationally acclaimed. Adhering to a philosophy centered on simplicity and perfection, the brewery focuses on producing a limited number of high-quality beers. Their saisons and farmhouse ales particularly stand out, each uniquely named after members of the Hill family lineage. Visiting Hill Farmstead Brewery is an experience in itself. The picturesque surroundings and rustic charm of the brewery form a beautiful backdrop to the exceptional brews offered. Patrons often journey long distances to sample their limited releases, making it a mecca for beer pilgrims in search of extraordinary flavors.

The Alchemist

Renowned for their flagship Heady Topper, The Alchemist in Stowe stands as one of the titans in the craft beer world. Their double IPA has amassed a cult following, famous for its potent hoppy aroma and refreshing taste. The Alchemist’s dedication to preserving the intricate flavors of their beers is evident in their meticulous canning process, which protects the beer from light and oxygen. The Alchemist’s range goes beyond just Heady Topper. With a dedicated brewing team constantly pushing the limits of their craft, The Alchemist offers a variety of beers that continue to set the standard in innovation and quality. Their approach is deeply rooted in scientific precision and environmental responsibility, further solidifying their status as pioneers in the industry.

Green Empire Brewing

Located in Colchester, Green Empire Brewing is the epitome of small-batch creativity. This nano-brewery has built a reputation for crafting some of the most unique and flavorful beers in Vermont. Their brews often reflect an adventurous spirit, incorporating diverse ingredients and innovative brewing techniques to produce memorable flavor profiles. Central to Green Empire’s ethos is their commitment to sustainability. They employ eco-friendly brewing practices, such as reclaiming water and supporting local agriculture, ensuring that their environmental footprint is as small as their production runs. This dedication to both quality and sustainability makes Green Empire a gem within Vermont’s vast brewing landscape.

Four Quarters Brewing

Four Quarters Brewing in Winooski showcases an eclectic range of beers, including sours, IPAs, and experimental brews. Their creativity shines particularly in their barrel-aged and sour beer programs, offering unique tastes that have garnered widespread acclaim. A visit to Four Quarters provides not just a taste experience but an exploration of different brewing philosophies and techniques. The cozy taproom, featuring a laid-back vibe and frequent live music, makes it a magnetic spot for both locals and tourists. This community-centric approach is bolstered by a commitment to quality and innovation, ensuring that Four Quarters remains a key player in Vermont’s beer scene.

Burlington Beer Company

Burlington Beer Company (BBCO) emerges as a staple in the Vermont brewing community. Located in Williston, BBCO offers an impressive selection of beers that reflect a bold and creative spirit. Their unique brewing techniques and flavor combinations have led to an ever-growing list of crowd favorites, from hazy IPAs to intricate sours. BBCO’s taproom experience is equally compelling. A lively atmosphere paired with an extensive menu of mouth-watering food ensures that visitors can enjoy more than just great beers. The eclectic decor, featuring large-scale murals and quirky artwork, adds to the overall aesthetic appeal, making each visit to BBCO an event to remember.

Lost Nation Brewing

Located in Morrisville, Lost Nation Brewing has built a loyal following around their dedication to traditional brewing techniques and local ingredients. Their beers, like the Gose and Rustic Ale, show a profound respect for classic European styles while incorporating Vermont’s unique terroir. Lost Nation’s streamlined focus on producing a few exceptionally crafted beers sets them apart. Their brewery’s setting also deserves mention. Situated along the Lamoille River, the peaceful environment complements the laid-back nature of Lost Nation’s offerings. Add to that their farm-to-table food concept, and it becomes clear why Lost Nation is a cherished member of the Vermont brewing family.

River Roost Brewery

Based in White River Junction, River Roost Brewery has quickly become a must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts. Known primarily for their hoppy IPAs and pale ales, River Roost specializes in beers that boast a complex, multi-layered flavor profile. Each sip reveals a dedication to quality and an artful approach to brewing. Despite being a relatively small operation, River Roost exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere. The brewery places a strong emphasis on community and often collaborates with local producers to hone their craft, making every beer a reflection of both skill and local culture.

Lawson’s Finest Liquids

Lawson’s Finest Liquids, situated in Waitsfield, holds a legendary status in the craft beer community. With iconic brews like Sip of Sunshine IPA, Lawson’s has garnered a following that stretches far beyond Vermont’s borders. The brewery’s dedication to using only the finest ingredients ensures that each beer is not just good, but extraordinary. In addition to exceptional brews, Lawson’s is committed to environmental stewardship and philanthropy. Through initiatives like the Sunshine Fund, Lawson’s contributes to local community projects and environmental causes. This intertwining of beer excellence and benevolence makes Lawson’s Finest Liquids a cornerstone of Vermont’s brewing culture.

Red Clover Ale Co.

Red Clover Ale Co., located in Brandon, stands out for its charming and experimental approach. Named after Vermont’s state flower, Red Clover brings both creativity and tradition to the forefront in their brews. They offer an array of beers that push the boundaries, from saisons infused with local herbs to robust stouts. The brewery’s rustic ambiance adds another layer of appeal. Visitors are often enchanted by the warm, inviting setting that’s perfect for trying diverse brews. The focus on local ingredients and handcrafted processes makes each visit to Red Clover Ale Co. a uniquely Vermont experience. —

Future Prospects

The future of Vermont’s brewing scene looks vibrant, driven by a combination of innovative approaches and deep-rooted traditions. Each brewery listed here contributes uniquely to the rich tapestry of flavors, techniques, and community spirit that define Vermont beer. Whether through sustainable practices or by pushing the boundaries of flavor, these breweries are setting new standards in the craft beer world.