Vermont Breweries: A Complete Guide to Every Beer Maker in the State

Vermont is known for fall foliage, winter sports, maple syrup, and, perhaps most importantly, bomb local breweries. I’ve lived in Vermont for 10 + years, and I've tasted lots (and lots) of beer. From lakeside gems to mountaintop beauts, here is a list of every single Vermont brewery across the state.

Tags: Ale Trail, Beer, Breweries

• Frost Beer Works, United States

  
  leah

  A quick and super scenic 25 minute drive from downtown Burlington. IPA-heavy selection, perfect for hop-lovers, with rotating seasonal stouts, pale ales, brown ales and porters. 4-packs available at most local grocery stores. While in Hinesburg, make the quick hike up Mount Philo and then grab a bite on the patio at the Hinesburg Public House (if you don't order the brussel sprouts, you're doing it wrong).

• Zero Gravity Brewery in Burlington, United States

  
  leah

  "The best brewery in Vermont" - me. Smack dab in the middle of Burlington's artsy Pine Street, Zero Grav's perfect tap list, twinkling patio lights, and overall cool vibes push it to #1 on my list. Grab a flight in-house, or pick up a 4-pack of Little Wolf (APA), or Madonna (IIPA) at City Market. While on Pine street, hit up: Queen City Brewery for another round (right across the street), Arts Riot for live music and vegan eats, and Lake Champlain Chocolates for an end of the night treat.

• Foam Brewers in Burlington, United States

  
  leah

  The perfect summertime spot on the Burlington Waterfront, highlights include: 8oz pours, bomb charcuterie and cheese boards, visiting food trucks, and local live music. Their new restaurant, Deep City, is right next door and offers a locally-sourced and vegan-friendly menu. Pro tip: hit up Foam around 7-8pm to snag a seat on the patio and a view of the sunset over Lake Champlain.

• Switchback Brewing Co. in Burlington, United States

  
  leah

  Another sweet find in Burlington's South End, Switchback's Flynn Ave brewery is a super safe bet for tourists who are looking to dip a toe in the Vermont Brewery scene. Their world-famous tap-list may be less experimental than some of the other spots on this list, but what they lack in crazy flavor profiles, they more than make up for in consistency and top-notch quality. Look for their classic amber bottle 6-packs at most grocery stores across the East Coast.

• Queen City Brewery in Burlington, United States

  
  leah

  Another Pine Street beaut, Queen City Brewery is a must for Lager-lovers and brewery crawlers. You'll notice that even with an exceptionally large tap list, the classic Vermont IPA is mostly MIA and traditional European and German-style beers shine. Snag a spot on their patio and order a *chefs kiss* deelish deep-dish pie from Queen City's next door neighbor, Pizza 44.

• Four Quarters Brewing, United States

  
  leah

  An actual hidden gem in Winooski (off the beaten path, in an old auto garage), Four Quarters is one of the youngest and bravest breweries on this list. Specializing in sours, stouts, and hops, Four Quarters' tap list is nothing but pure fun. Archives include the: Cheery Chocolate Drop, Cider Donut Stout, Bloodbuzz, Blueberry shakedown, and Key Lime Pie Shakedown.

• The Alchemist Stowe in Stowe, United States

  
  leah

  Home of the award-winning Heady Topper (rated the 5th best beer in the entire world by Beer Advocate) and located in the literal cutest small town in all of New England, The Alchemist obviously has a lot going for it. But don't let the hype fool you. This family-run brewery is surprisingly down-to-earth with friendly staff, free 2oz samples, and on-site cans for purchase (cans are pretty hard to find in stores and sell out fast). While in Stowe: take a dip in Bingham Falls, zipline at ArborTrek Canopy Adventures, and take a walk thorough Smugglers Notch State Park.

• von Trapp Brewery & Bierhall in Stowe, United States

  
  leah

  The hills are alive. Founded by a member of the von Trapp fam (yes, that von Trapp fam) over a decade ago, the Brewery & Bierhall are an ode to the lagers found across the countryside of Austria. On the same property, the iconic Trapp Family Lodge will transport you back in time and offers Austrian-inspired architecture and stunning mountain views.

• 14th Star Brewing Co., United States

  
  leah

  This veteran-owned craft brewery is located in the up-and-coming Saint Albans, VT. With a huge part of their mission focused on community give-back, 14th Star is the feel-good pick on this list. Popular year-round drafts include the B-72 and Maple Breakfast Stout. While in Saint Albans, personal recs include: the Vermont Maple Festival (every spring), Twiggs Gastropub, and Catalyst Coffee Bar.

• Hill Farmstead Brewery, United States

  
  leah

  Voted the best brewery in the world for the for the 5th straight year in 2019. Surrounded by mountains in the hills of the Northeast Kingdom. Hill Farmstead Brewery is a must-stop for those passing through (+ a worthwhile detour for those who aren't). Open Wednesday-Friday.

• Lawson’s Finest Liquids in Waitsfield, United States

  
  leah

  Lawson's Sip of Sunshine is hands-down my go-to Vermont brew. The brewery and taproom in Waitsfield offers a full menu, light fare, a retail store and and brewery tours. Not only does Lawson's have some of the absolute best beer on this list , but it's also in the best location: the Mad River Valley is jam-packed with good eats (American Flatbread, Stoke Ramen Bar), scenic hikes (Sunset Ledge Trail), maple creemees (Canteen Creemee Co.), winter fun (Sugarbush, Mad River Glen), and secret swimming holes (no way I'm giving you this one).

• Lost Nation Brewing, United States

  
  leah

  A quick stop off from the 93-mile Rail Trail (bike it in the summer, snowshoe in the winter). Lost Nation is all about farm-to-table food and small-batch craft beer. My fave is the Mosaic: single-hop IPA that's equal parts hoppy and fruity.

• The Otter Creek Brewery in Middlebury, United States

  
  leah

  Cute & cozy, Otter Creek Brewery is s known for its incredibly kind staff, commitment to sustainability, and bangin' pub menu. Their Daily Dose IPA is a staple.

• Rock Art Brewery, United States

  
  leah

  30 minutes from Stowe and just 10 from Lake Elmore, Rock Art is quant (think: local artists, syrups and jams) with an amazing atmosphere and beer. Try their 8-beer flight to sample everything on tap, or ask for a free sample. The Vermont Maple Wheat Ale is a local fave. Visit the close-by Lost Nation Brewery while in Morrisville.

• Good Measure Brewing Co., United States

  
  leah

  The best dog-friendly taproom in central Vermont with friendly staff, weekly brews, and a coffee shop right next door. Early Riser is easily one of the best beers currently coming out of Vermont.

• The Bobcat Cafe and Brewery in Bristol, United States

  
  leah

  When you walk up to this cute small-town cafe, you'd have no idea that there's a full brewery behind the twinkle-light lined windows and walls covered in local art. The food is hearty and warm, vegan options are a'plenty, and the beer is crafted with care.

• Burlington Beer Company, United States

  
  leah

  Fun n funky with a wide range of hop-forward Pales Ales, IPAs, Double IPAs, and Triple IPAs. Retro games, flights, pints, and a pup-friendly new patio are just some of the highlights.

• Fiddlehead Brewing Company, United States

  
  leah

  Fiddlehead's tasting room in Shelburne — right across the street from the Shelburne Museum (a must do)—offers taste tests, cans, growler refills and kegs. The best part about Fiddlehead is their partnership with Follino's. Wood fired pizza with naturally leavened crust. BYOB is easy here with Fiddlehead right next door.

• Prohibition Pig Brewery, United States

  
  leah

  Beer and BBQ? It doesn't get any better. The restaurant in the front of the house is slammed open to close. To get your hands on some beer and an open chair, head to the brewery in the back. Casual, chill, 14 in-house brews on tap. Grab one of their bottles of BBQ sauce to go.

• Weird Window Brewing, United States

  
  leah

  Named after the weird AF "witch windows" that are found on old Vermont farmhouses, South Burlington's Weird Window Brewing is one of the youngest breweries on this list — est. mid-2020 during an actual world-wide pandemic. Weird Window's tap-list values approachability and diversity, offering "something for everybody."

• Lucy and Howe Brewing Company, United States

  
  leah

  Located in the picturesque town of Jericho, Vermont, Lucy and Howe Brewing Company is a nano-brewery that operates its taproom in the Jericho Ale and Bean building, which was once the Jericho General Store. Their primary focus is on creating a harmonious blend of innovative and classic beers for their local community and friends.

• Black Flannel Brewing Co., United States

  
  leah

  With 4 of Vermont's 17 Certified Cicerones on staff, Black Flannel places a heavy emphasis on quality and education. They are also Vermont's only brewery/distillery combo!

• Kraemer & Kin in North Hero, United States

  
  leah

  Kraemer & Kin is a family-owned and operated brewery located in Alburgh, VT. Brewing from agricultural roots and naturalist inspirations, they strive to produce quality, accessible and localized beer.

• Whirligig Brewing in Saint Johnsbury, United States

  
  leah

  Situated in downtown St Johnsbury, Vermont, Whirligig Brewery and taproom is a small-scale, BIPOC-owned operation with a single barrel capacity. Their brewing philosophy emphasizes the use of locally-sourced grains and hops for the majority of their beer offerings, which span across a broad range of styles such as IPAs, lagers, and stouts. Their specialty? Sours and wild ales.

• 1st Republic Brewing, United States

  
  leah

  1st Republic Brewing Company is a small veteran owned & operated craft brewery located in Essex Vermont.

• Beer Naked Brewery, United States

  
  leah

  Perched atop Marlboro's Hogback Mountain in Vermont, Beer Naked Brewery offers freshly-brewed beers and wood-fired pizzas that can be enjoyed alongside a breathtaking 100-mile view.

• Bent Hill Brewery, United States

  
  leah

  Nestled in Vemont's hills, Bent Hill pairs their signature brews with a "refreshing and uniquely meatless" food menu!

• Brewster River Pub & Brewery, United States

  
  leah

  Relaxed gathering place with billiards & TVs offering draft beers and creative pub grub.

• Brocklebank Craft Brewing, United States

  
  leah

  Brocklebank Craft Brewing is a tiny but mighty one-and-a-half barrel nanobrewery based in Tunbridge. They've been serving up their delicious brews since 2015, including a range of beers like IPAs, pilsners, stouts, and fruity concoctions. You can grab a pint or flight at their cozy taproom, or if you're lucky, you might find their beers on tap at some bars and restaurants in central Vermont.

• Drop-In Brewing Company in Middlebury, United States

  
  leah

  At Drop-In Brewery, you can indulge in beer galore, whether it's by the glass, sampler flights, canned beers, or growler fills. This Vermont brewery also serves as the home of the American Brewers Guild Brewing School, owned and operated by the mastermind behind it all, Steve Parkes. The whole setup is a modern marvel of brewing technology, featuring a 15 bbl brewing system, fermenters, and even its own canning line. And if you're lucky enough to catch the brewer on site, don't hesitate to peek in and say hello!

• Farm Road Brewing in Bennington, United States

  
  leah

  The folks at Farm Road Brewery and Tap Room in downtown Bennington, Vermont are proud to be a Veteran owned establishment. If you're looking for their brews, you'll have to head straight to the source - all of their beer is brewed on site and exclusively available in their taproom. Fear not if you're not a beer drinker - they've got you covered with wine, cider, seltzer, and soda options. Plus, their partners from Bevis Bistro serve up some mouth-watering eats right in-house, which pairs perfectly with a cold Farm Road beer.

• Foley Brothers Brewing, United States

  
  leah

  Foley Brothers Brewing is a family-owned brewery in Brandon, Vermont. Siblings Pat, Dan, and Christine founded the brewery in 2012. The brewery's approach is simple: hard work, dedication, and quality. They use the finest ingredients, operate with diligent brewing techniques, and never take shortcuts in making their beer.

• Goodwater Brewery, United States

  
  leah

  If you're in Williston, Vermont, you've got to check out GoodWater Brewery. They've got a beer selection that'll make your taste buds dance, and they've got options for every kind of beer lover. Plus, their tasting room is a great spot to hang out and grab a bite to eat. The restaurant space uses their brews in some seriously tasty dishes - talk about a perfect pairing!

• Green Empire Brewing, United States

  
  leah

  Green Empire Brewing has been around since 2016, and they're all about family, creativity, and quality beer. They are a friendly bunch, and we love sharing their passion for craft brewing with others. You can find their brews all over the Northeast, and they even offer in-state shipping and delivery within Chittenden county Wednesday-Friday. But if you really want the full Green Empire experience, you've got to come visit the brewery in Colchester, VT. They've got a wide variety of ales, lagers, and everything in-between waiting for you.

• Harpoon Brewery Taproom and Beer Garden, United States

  
  leah

  Harpoon Brewery in Vermont is a must-visit spot for beer enthusiasts. With a wide selection of craft beers, ciders, and seltzers, as well as delicious food options, there's something for everyone to enjoy. And if you want a truly unique experience, be sure to reserve one of their private Harpoon Huts or the Catamount Cabin!

• Hermit Thrush Brewery in Brattleboro, United States

  
  leah

  Thermit Thrush Brewery in Vermont is a hidden gem for beer lovers looking for unique and flavorful brews. With a focus on sustainability and locally sourced ingredients, their beer lineup is sure to please any palate. Their cozy taproom is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a cold one with friends.

• Hired Hand Brewing Co., United States

  
  leah

  Hired Hand Brewing in Vergennes, Vermont, offers an inviting atmosphere with a cozy taproom and outdoor seating area. They specialize in brewing Belgian-style beers using locally sourced ingredients, and they also have a variety of other beers and cider available. If you're in the area, be sure to stop by for a pint and some delicious food from their rotating menu.

• Hogback Mountain Brewing, Inc. in Bristol, United States

  
  leah

  Hogback Mountain Brewing's taproom offers indoor seating and a newly expanded covered patio and beer garden, which are perfect for enjoying their 10 hyper-local brews and fresh farm-to-table fare from Lucky Star. Reservations are recommended, and leashed dogs are welcome in their outdoor seating areas. Don't miss out on their outdoor live music events happening all summer, and as always, food and beer are also available to-go

• Idletyme Brewing Company in Stowe, United States

  
  leah

  Brewmaster Will Gilson offers a traditional take on classic European brewing with a Vermont hop culture twist in the beer lineup at Idletyme Brewing in Stowe. Guests can enjoy a range of brews including brown or pale ale, Helles Lager, and the popular Idletyme Double IPA. The brewery offers pints and flights to sample their flagship and seasonal brews, as well as growlers and kegs for purchase. Guests can also request a brewery tour to see the production process.

• Kingdom Brewing, United States

  
  leah

  Kingdom Brewing is a small farm brewery located in Newport, Vermont that specializes in producing handcrafted, small-batch beers using locally sourced ingredients. Their flagship beer is the King's Cream Ale, which is brewed with corn from a local farm. In addition to beer, Kingdom Brewing also offers a farm-to-table food menu featuring seasonal produce and meats from local farms.