Anchorage, AK Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Ultimate Brewery Tour
Anchorage, Alaska, has become a vibrant hub for craft beer aficionados, boasting an impressive array of breweries that offer a rich assortment of locally brewed beers. With a history that traces back to the early 90s, the city has seen a dynamic evolution in its brewing scene, which today includes a diverse mix of establishments from pioneering mainstays to innovative newcomers. Visitors and locals alike can explore a variety of venues, each presenting its unique flair and specialties, from barrel-aged stouts and barley wines to crisp IPAs and Belgian ales.
The craft beer landscape in Anchorage is a reflection of the city's character—bold, adventurous, and welcoming. Whether one seeks to enjoy a casual pint in a cozy taproom or sample a lineup of seasonal brews in a more expansive setting, the options are plentiful. The breweries are not just about the beverages; they act as social hubs and contribute to Anchorage's community spirit, often pairing their offerings with local music, food, and cultural events.
This guide serves as a starting point for those eager to navigate the eclectic craft beer scene of Anchorage. It encompasses insightful recommendations and highlights key destinations where one can experience the best of local brewing craftsmanship. From the well-established favorites that have helped shape the beer culture in Anchorage to the energetic spots that continue to push boundaries, this guide ensures beer enthusiasts can make the most of their Alaskan beer journey.
The Rise of Craft Beer in Anchorage
In recent years, Anchorage, Alaska, has witnessed substantial growth in its craft beer scene. This northern city boasts a high concentration of breweries per capita, reflecting Alaskans' thriving interest in richly flavored, locally produced beers.
The craft beer movement in Anchorage began taking shape in the early 1990s, with pioneers such as Midnight Sun Brewing Company laying down roots and setting high standards for a burgeoning industry. Their establishment in 1995 and iconic beers like the Sockeye Red IPA have become cornerstones of the local scene.
By offering a diverse array of styles, Anchorage breweries satisfy a wide range of palates. They've been fighting strict liquor laws and the challenges posed by their unique geography to produce distinctive beers. One can find a great array of Pacific Northwest beers in Anchorage, alongside unique Alaskan offerings, which include ingredients foraged from the local wilderness.
Brewerks is one of the newest additions, having opened in 2021. This venue quickly gained recognition for its sizable indoor and outdoor seating areas and a tempting selection of craft beers.
Despite the relatively remote location of Alaska, the state's craft beer output is impressive. Anchorage is not just an isolated outpost but a hub of creative and dedicated brewing activity. Its craft beer scene has proven to be resilient, dynamic, and highly responsive to the tastes of both locals and visitors, solidifying Anchorage's place on the map of craft beer destinations.
Navigating Anchorage's Craft Breweries
Anchorage offers a diverse craft brewery scene spread across the city, with each area boasting unique offerings. From Midtown to Girdwood, locals and visitors can explore a range of flavors, atmospheres, and brewing styles.
Midtown Anchorage Breweries
Midtown is home to several notable breweries. King Street Brewing Company is lauded for its consistent quality and variety, while Midnight Sun Brewing Co. stands as a venerable institution, offering barrel-aged stouts and other robust flavors.
Downtown Anchorage Breweries
Downtown Anchorage's highlights include 49th State Brewing which serves a wide array of beers complemented by a rooftop patio. Glacier Brewhouse is another downtown staple known for its wood-grilled food and house-made beers.
South Anchorage Breweries
In South Anchorage, breweries such as Turnagain Brewing, with a focus on Belgian and sour beers, and Cynosure Brewing, which offers a relaxed atmosphere and well-crafted lagers, have established a firm following.
Girdwood and Beyond
Breweries like Girdwood Brewing Company and Alpenglow Brewery in nearby Girdwood cater to the adventure-minded beer enthusiast seeking both scenery and flavorful brews after a day in the great outdoors.
Emerging Breweries
Newer establishments such as Magnetic North Brewing Co. and Double Shovel Cider Co. are gaining popularity with their innovative approaches to brewing and fermenting.
Breweries with Unique Specialties
Anchorage Brewing Co. is known for their diverse beer selection including specialty ales. 49th State Brewing has made a name with its experimental ales, while Midnight Sun Brewing Company champions a strong profile in barrel-aged specialties.
Breweries and Food Experiences
Food is an integral part of the Anchorage brewery experience. From Bear Tooth Grill's famous nachos to Moose’s Tooth's acclaimed pizza, (What wine goes well with pizza?) local food trucks often partner with taprooms to deliver a complete gustatory experience.
Onsite Brewing and Tasting Rooms
Many Anchorage breweries operate onsite brewing and tasting rooms where visitors can watch the brewing process. Anchorage Brewing Co. and King Street Brewing Company are two such places where freshly brewed beers can be sampled in view of the vats and barrels where they were created.
Craft Beer Varieties in Anchorage
Anchorage offers a stellar range of craft beer with an emphasis on robust flavors and unique Alaskan ingredients. From hop-heavy IPAs to rich stouts, Anchorage's breweries craft a diverse array of beers that reflect the region's taste and innovation.
IPA Offerings
The IPA landscape in Anchorage is varied and adventurous. Beer aficionados can savour the popular Fairweather IPA at local haunts, known for its refreshing bite and hoppy profile. These India Pale Ales are a staple in the Anchorage craft scene, with breweries consistently updating their hop-infused line-ups to include an impressive range of bitterness levels and aromatic nuances.
Stouts, Ales, and Porters
Anchorage does not shy away from the rich and hearty. Breweries across the city take pride in their lineup of stouts, ales, and porters. Each beer, from the velvety stouts to the more traditional ales and robust porters, delivers a depth of flavor. Patrons looking for something on the sweeter side might find the Panty Peeler intriguing, with its fruity notes and Belgian twist.
Unique Alaskan Flavors
It's in the unique beers where Anchorage's craft beer really shines. Elements such as spruce tips and local berries are brewed into the beers, providing flavors one can only find in Alaska. They tell stories of the region's palate and give visitors a taste of something genuinely local and unexpected.
Seasonal and Limited Edition Brews
Enthusiasts who time their visits with the brewery schedule in Anchorage can indulge in exclusive seasonal and limited edition brews. These offerings often include harvest ales that capture the essence of the Alaskan Kodiak region's seasonal produce. Additionally, special releases and collaborations are common, inviting drinkers to explore limited-run batches that showcase the creativity and skill of Anchorage's brewers.
Craft Beer Culture and Community
Anchorage's craft beer scene is not just about the brews; it's a vibrant tapestry of events, community gatherings, and local businesses that create a culture rich in character and taste.
Live Music and Events
Anchorage breweries often serve as social hubs, offering live music and hosting events that celebrate both local culture and international influences. Events like Oktoberfest and The Great Alaska Beer & Barleywine Festival reflect a fusion of global traditions with Alaskan flair.
Beer Rating and Reviewing
Platforms like Untappd play a crucial role in Anchorage's beer rating and reviewing community. Enthusiasts use it to share their experiences and opinions on different brews, which also helps to guide new consumers and highlights the standout local offerings.
Craft Beer Enthusiasts' Gatherings
Groups of beer lovers frequently convene at Anchorage breweries and taprooms for tastings and social events. They foster a sense of camaraderie and collective appreciation for craft beer, often sharing insights about flavor profiles and brewing techniques.
Local Craft Beer Stores
Stores specializing in craft beer offer an extensive selection of both local and imported bottles and cans. Knowledgeable staff members enhance the community by providing recommendations and acting as guides to both newcomers and seasoned aficionados.
Brewery Tours and Beer Tastings
Local breweries frequently offer tours and tastings, which provide a behind-the-scenes look at the beer-making process and give patrons an opportunity to sample a variety of styles. This interactive experience bolsters both education and enjoyment of the craft beer culture.
Pairing Food with Local Brews
In Anchorage, the craft beer scene flourishes with an array of breweries that seamlessly integrate their beer selections with local cuisine, from the convenience of food trucks to the comfort of established brewery restaurants.
Food Truck Pairings
Food trucks in Anchorage offer a dynamic dining scene that perfectly complements the local craft beer offerings. They provide an array of options, from savory tacos to gourmet sandwiches, which can be enjoyed with a refreshing ale or hearty stout. Many breweries invite food trucks to park onsite, allowing beer aficionados to enjoy bites and brews together.
Tacos & Pale Ales: Citrusy hops of a pale ale can cut through the richness of carnitas or carne asada.
Gourmet Sandwiches & IPAs: Bold flavors in sandwiches, such as smoked salmon or pulled pork, are well balanced with the bitterness of an IPA.
Pizza and Craft Beer
Pizza and beer form a classic pairing, and Anchorage is no exception to this timeless tradition. Moose's Tooth is well-known for its handcrafted pizzas, ranging from the classic to the gourmet, with toppings that can stand up to a variety of local brews.
Cheese Pizza & Pilsners: A light pilsner can cleanse the palate between each savory bite of cheese pizza.
Meat Lover's Pizza & Amber Ales: The caramel notes in an amber ale enhance the savory flavors of sausage and pepperoni.
Bear Tooth Theatrepub also provides a unique experience, offering a combination of craft beer with pizza as patrons enjoy a show.
Brewery Restaurants and Menus
Breweries with their own kitchens, such as Glacier Brewhouse and 49th State Brewing, have meticulously crafted menus designed to pair with their beer selections.
Glacier Brewhouse
Halibut with Hefeweizen: A light and zesty hefeweizen complements the delicate flavor of Alaskan halibut.
Ribs with Stout: Rich, smoked ribs find their match with the roasted malt profile of a robust stout.
49th State Brewing
Bison (What wine goes well with bison?) Burger with IPA: The hoppy punch of an IPA contrasts the savory taste of bison.
Barleywine with Cheese Platter: A barleywine's complexity stands up to a selection of sharp cheeses.
These brewery restaurants offer an immersive experience, showcasing how their craft beers enhance and elevate the flavors of their dishes.
Anchorage Craft Beer Experiences
As the craft beer scene in Anchorage continues to mature, visitors and locals alike have an abundance of quality options for enjoying locally brewed beer. Whether one is seeking a sunny outdoor spot to sip a brew, great happy hour deals, or establishments that prioritize community and environmental care, Anchorage's breweries cater to a wide array of preferences.
Outdoor Seating and Ambiance
Many breweries in Anchorage boast outdoor seating that allows guests to enjoy the crisp Alaskan air alongside their craft beer. Midnight Sun Brewing Co. offers a comfortable outdoor seating arrangement where patrons can bask in the daylight that lasts well into the evening. They, along with other breweries, often feature local food trucks, providing a relaxed and sociable outdoor atmosphere.
Happy Hour Specials
For those in search of value, Anchorage breweries offer enticing happy hour specials. Establishments like Humpy's Great Alaskan Alehouse are known for their rotation of Pacific Northwest beers and sometimes include happy hour deals that feature a selection of these beverages. Reduced prices on both food and drinks during these hours make for an attractive option for budget-conscious beer enthusiasts.
Community Support and Sustainability Practices
The local craft beer scene in Anchorage doesn't just provide delectable ales; it also contributes to community welfare and sustainable practices. Breweries may source ingredients locally whenever possible, reducing their carbon footprint and supporting Alaskan farmers. Additionally, many breweries engage in practices that show their commitment to sustainability, such as minimizing waste and energy use.
Planning Your Visit
When visiting Anchorage to experience its vibrant craft beer scene, one should have a plan. The following information will assist those looking to immerse themselves in the local brew culture, navigating local hotspots with a comprehensive guide and maps, finding answers to common questions, and ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.
Craft Beer Trail and Maps
Anchorage offers a diverse array of breweries, and the best way to explore them is following a Craft Beer Trail. Utilize a detailed map that highlights the top breweries to visit:
49th State Brewing Co: Known for beer cheese pretzels and an inviting outside deck.
Midnight Sun Brewing Co: Famous for barrel-aged stouts and barley wines.
Maps often include symbols indicating:
🍺 Beer offerings
☀️ Outside seating availability
🚚 Food truck presence
🍸 Cocktail options
Anchorage Brewery FAQs
Visitors commonly ask about:
Starting Points: Many recommend Humpy's as a starting point with its broad selection of ales.
Barrel-Aged Brews: Glacier BrewHouse is praised for cask-conditioned ales and oak-aged beers.
Local Favorites: King Street Brewing Company is a staple for growlers and keg refills.
Remember, each brewery may have its own unique offerings and atmosphere, catering to a range of preferences.
Transportation and Safety Tips
Anchorage's craft beer endeavors should always include a transportation plan:
Designated Driver: Assign a member of your party to remain sober and provide safe transport.
Ride-Sharing Services: Apps like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout Anchorage.
Public Transportation: Utilize local bus services for a cost-effective and safe option.
Additionally, be aware of local laws regarding alcohol consumption, and always prioritize safety over convenience.
Beyond Anchorage
While Anchorage is a hotspot for craft beer enthusiasts, the allure of Alaskan brewing extends far into the state's rugged landscapes, offering unique experiences for those who venture beyond.
Fairbanks and Northern Regions
In the northern regions, Fairbanks stands as a beacon for beer aficionados. 49th State Brewing Co., originally started near Denali National Park, offers a robust selection of beers that capture the essence of the frontier spirit. Visitors to Fairbanks can immerse themselves in the local scene and enjoy limited edition brews that are often inspired by the vast Alaskan wilderness.
Regional Alaskan Brewing
Brewing in Alaska isn't confined to its urban locales; it's woven into the fabric of the state's culture. Matanuska Brewing Company is a prime example of this regional expertise, delivering diverse flavors and locally inspired ales. As Alaskan breweries gain traction on the international stage, beer from the Last Frontier makes its way into the homes of enthusiasts worldwide, sharing a taste of Alaska's brewing prowess.
Brewerk's in Anchorage represents the expansion and innovation of Alaskan craft beer. While not outside Anchorage, its influence and beers often reach into the regional towns, offering a bridge between city and rural beer scenes.
Fairbanks boasts several local breweries that bring their unique northern perspective to the Alaskan craft beer tapestry, emphasizing small-batch quality and regional ingredients.
Each of these breweries contributes to the rich tapestry that makes Alaska's beer scene both unique and inviting to explorers.
