Bakersfield, CA Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Insider Tour of Top Brews
Bakersfield, California, establishes itself as a vibrant hub for craft beer enthusiasts, boasting a diverse array of local breweries that capture the spirit of innovation and community. Within this sunny enclave of Kern County, visitors and residents alike have the opportunity to experience the burgeoning beer culture that is steeped in local flavors and distinct brewing techniques. The city’s craft beer scene is characterized by its dedication to quality, with a penchant for offering a wide variety of styles that cater to both traditionalists and adventurers.
The breweries in Bakersfield are a testament to the collaborative and creative ethos that defines craft beer culture. Each establishment, from the trendsetting Dionysus Brewing with its variety of IPAs to the community-oriented Crusader Brewing, prides itself on delivering unique and flavorful beers. This commitment to craftsmanship and local engagement is what makes Bakersfield’s craft beer offerings stand out. Patrons can expect to find a selection of ales and lagers ranging from rich, complex stouts to refreshing, citrusy IPAs.
Serving as gathering places where friends and strangers alike can bond over a pint, these breweries also often support local charities and contribute to local events, reinforcing their roles as key players in Bakersfield’s social fabric. Through visiting these breweries, one not only savors the innovative brews but also gets a palpable sense of the city’s culture and community values. Whether a connoisseur or casual sipper, Bakersfield’s craft beer landscape presents an inviting exploration of taste and tradition crafted by proud local hands.
History of Craft Beer in Bakersfield
Bakersfield, California, has a blossoming craft beer scene entrenched in a rich brewing history. The city encountered a significant milestone with the opening of Temblor Brewing Company in 2015. Established in the hub of the Golden Empire, Temblor quickly became known for its commitment to producing high-quality craft beers and creating a localized hub for beer enthusiasts.
In Bakersfield's downtown area, a noteworthy event occurred when 2nd Phase Brewing Co. opened its doors, marking the first brewery to launch in the area in nearly 80 years. This signaled a new era in Bakersfield's craft beer history, offering not just a place for enjoying quality brews, but also live entertainment.
The establishment and success of these breweries spotlight the local appetite for craft beer and the community's support for these independent businesses.
Key Points in Bakersfield's Craft Beer History:
2015: Temblor Brewing Co. opens, offering a variety of craft beers and weekly events.
New Brewery: First downtown brewery in almost eight decades begins operations, signifying a revived interest in local beer culture.
It's clear that Bakersfield is on a path to redefine its craft beer legacy, building upon the broader California heritage known for initiating the American craft brewing movement. This city consistently showcases its commitment to the craft beer industry and its core values centered on community, quality, and local pride.
Top Bakersfield Breweries
Bakersfield, CA, is home to a vibrant and growing craft beer community, with local breweries offering a diverse range of styles and experiences. Each brewery contributes to the city’s reputation for quality and innovation in the craft beer scene.
Temblor Brewing Company
Temblor Brewing Company stands out as an award-winning locale known for its wide selection of beers and lively event space. They cater not just to beer enthusiasts but also to concert-goers, making it a cornerstone of Bakersfield's social landscape.
Crusader Brewing
Crusader Brewing is recognized in the community for creating beers that are both traditional and innovative. Their taproom serves as a gathering place for locals, showcasing the tight-knit nature of Bakersfield’s residents.
Great Change Brewing
Great Change Brewing operates as a microbrewery with a focus on artisanal quality and craftsmanship. Their independent operation reflects a dedication to producing distinct flavors that resonate with Bakersfield’s unique taste profiles.
Lengthwise Brewing Company
A staple in the Bakersfield brewery scene, Lengthwise Brewing Company has a reputation for consistent quality across their range of beers. They offer a friendly atmosphere that mirrors the inviting character of the city itself.
Dionysus Brewing
Dionysus Brewing excels with its selection of craft beers, particularly sours that are both daring and delightful. The brewery boasts a high rating among patrons for the quality of beer and the vibrant atmosphere within their establishment.
Brewery Reviews and Ratings
When talking about Bakersfield's local craft beer scene, Dionysus Brewing stands out with a high average rating of 4.7 based on 113 reviews. Patrons highlight its impressive selection, particularly noting the variety of sours available. Dionysus not only crafts beer but also fosters a friendly and welcoming community around their business.
Temblor Brewing Company is another notable establishment in the area, with a 4.2 rating across 747 reviews. They're commended for their innovative New American cuisine and event spaces, alongside a strong lineup of craft beers.
In addition to breweries, Bakersfield hosts Hageman Liquor, an integral part of the craft beer community, boasting a perfect 5.0 rating, though from a smaller sample of 5 reviews. The establishment is praised for its comprehensive craft beer selection.
For those exploring the top breweries, here is a quick reference list:
Dionysus Brewing
Rating: 4.7/5
Notable: Variety of sours & community atmosphere
Temblor Brewing Company
Rating: 4.2/5
Notable: Event spaces & craft beer selection
Hageman Liquor
Rating: 5.0/5
Notable: Extensive craft beer options
These ratings provide a glimpse into Bakersfield's craft beer culture, with community and beer variety being consistent highlights across these popular spots.
Craft Beer Selections
Bakersfield's craft beer landscape presents a diverse array of locally-brewed selections. Enthusiasts can savor everything from robust ales to innovative IPAs and tangy sours, each telling its own story of Bakersfield's brewing culture.
Ales
In Bakersfield, the ale variety often showcases a deep respect for traditional brewing methods, with several breweries featuring centennial ales that pay homage to timeless flavors. Patrons can expect smooth, balanced ales with a hint of caramel undertones.
IPAs
India Pale Ales (IPAs) in Bakersfield are known for their hoppy character and bold flavors. Ranging from citrus-infused to earthy, they cater to both the IPA connoisseur and those new to this style of beer.
Sours
Sour beers have made a definitive mark on the craft beer scene. Bakersfield breweries have embraced this with offerings that deliver a punchy, tart kick, often incorporating local fruit for a unique twist.
Golden Ales
The golden ales of Bakersfield stand out for their crisp, refreshing profiles. These approachable golden ales are perfect for those seeking a lighter beer that doesn't sacrifice on the distinct craft beer essence.
Business and Community Impact
Bakersfield's craft beer scene is a growing facet of the community, intertwining the passion for quality brewing with local economic and communal efforts. With six operational breweries in Kern County and a significant impact estimated at $15 million annually, this industry is not just about producing beer—it's also a driver of economic growth.
The burgeoning craft beer sector employs approximately 200 individuals. These jobs range from brewing specialists to service staff, all supporting Bakersfield’s local economy. The influence of the craft beer industry also extends into tourism. Initiatives, such as Visit Bakersfield's Brewery Trail, spotlight the area's passion for craft beer and attract visitors, further contributing to local business prosperity.
Community engagement is central to Bakersfield's craft breweries' ethos. Establishments like Crusader Brewery exemplify this commitment by supporting local nonprofits and law enforcement search and rescue agencies. Social media platforms, especially those dedicated to Bakersfield craft beer, foster a sense of community among enthusiasts, encouraging support for local businesses.
Finally, the craft beer movement in Bakersfield is reshaping the local beverage landscape. Its continued growth reflects not only a demand for diverse and quality brews but also signifies a community coming together to celebrate and support its local artisans.
Local Events and Venues
Bakersfield, California, has established itself as a hub for craft beer enthusiasts, integrating local beer events and venues into the city's cultural fabric. Temblor Brewing Company stands out not just as a brewery but also as a vibrant concert venue. They regularly host live music events, making it an essential stop for those seeking both quality craft beers and entertainment.
In the realm of local events, Second Phase Brewing is known for its community engagement, often featuring experimentally inspired beers. While they may not be as large as Temblor in terms of concert space, they provide a locale for intimate gatherings and tastings that emphasize local flavors and brewing innovation.
Great Change Brewing and Crusader Brewing are smaller venues in Bakersfield that contribute to the craft beer scene. Great Change Brewing is recognized for its commitment to independently owned and operated brewing, offering a personal touch to their events and tastings.
Aside from dedicated breweries, Bakersfield embraces craft beer at various festivals and events throughout the year. This includes celebrated craft beer festivals where attendees can sample a wide range of local brews, often accompanied by live music and food vendors.
Venue Name Event Offering Notable Features
Temblor Brewing Co. Live music concerts, Beer tasting Award-winning brewery
Second Phase Brewing Local craft beer events Experimental brews
Great Change Brewing Tastings, Community gatherings Independently owned
Crusader Brewing Beer releases, Small-scale events Community-focused
These entities collectively offer a multitude of experiences for craft beer aficionados and casual beer drinkers alike, emphasizing Bakersfield's identity as a growing craft beer destination.
Craft Beer Innovation and Experimentation
The craft beer scene in Bakersfield is a testament to the creative spirit of local brewers. These artisans are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of traditional brewing processes, embracing both innovation and experimentation.
Many Bakersfield breweries imbue their craft beers with a spirit of curiosity. They frequently introduce new beer varieties that reflect their relentless pursuit of unique flavors. This inventive approach involves experimenting with various ingredients, from exotic hops to unconventional additives like local fruits and spices, aiming to craft a distinctive drinking experience.
Establishments like Temblor Brewing Company underscore this ethos, with an impressive production capacity that allows for a rotating lineup of experimental brews. They blend time-honored styles with new twists, offering patrons a diverse tasting experience. Similarly, Lengthwise Brewing has built a reputation since 2002 for its exploratory approach to ale production, regularly adding novel concoctions to its already extensive range of beers.
The local craft beer community encourages brewers to share knowledge and techniques, collectively raising the bar for innovation. Patrons often look forward to seasonal releases and limited-edition batches that embody the creativity of these local establishments.
Here's a snapshot of Bakersfield's craft beer innovation:
Temblor Brewing Company: Established in 2015, a hub for diverse beer types.
Lengthwise Brewing: Opened in 2002, known for its eclectic beer offerings.
This ongoing commitment to innovation not only satisfies the adventurous palates of craft beer aficionados but also ensures Bakersfield's position on the map as a destination for those who appreciate the artful blend of tradition and experimentation in their pint glasses.
Food Pairings and Trucks
In Bakersfield, CA, local craft breweries excel at complementing their beers with appropriate food pairings. They provide menus that cater to the palate, enhancing the beer-tasting experience, and collaborate with a variety of food trucks to offer a diverse culinary journey.
Brewery Menus
Many Bakersfield breweries have honed their own food offerings to pair with their beers. Lengthwise Brewing is renowned for its menu that includes hearty burgers, sandwiches, and salads, designed to pair perfectly with their signature ales and lagers. These dishes not only satisfy hunger but also complement the brews in flavor and intensity.
Burgers: Juicy, robust, and crafted to stand up to hoppy IPAs.
Sandwiches: A range of options, from light and refreshing to hearty and bold.
Salads: Fresh, with a balance of greens and dressings to cleanse the palate between sips.
Food Truck Collaborations
The local craft beer scene in Bakersfield is also enriched by collaborations with food trucks, which provide a rotating array of cuisines outside brewery doors. This initiative supports local food vendors while offering brewery patrons a unique and ever-changing dining experience. Patrons can enjoy a wide selection of dishes from tacos and gourmet sliders to international cuisine, all while sipping on a local craft beer.
Food Truck Schedule: Breweries often post weekly schedules of visiting food trucks.
Variety of Cuisines: From local favorites to international delights, there's always something new to try.
Bakersfield breweries and food trucks together create a dynamic flavor landscape for both beer aficionados and foodies alike. Whether one prefers a sit-down meal within the brewery's own kitchen or the casual ambiance of a food truck meetup, the pairing possibilities are both delightful and endless.
Craft Beer Merch and Collectibles
In Bakersfield, California, craft beer enthusiasts can embrace their passion beyond the brews themselves by exploring a variety of beer merch and collectibles. The local breweries and specialty stores offer items that allow patrons to showcase their support for Bakersfield's craft beer scene.
T-Shirts and Apparel: Breweries like Dionysus Brewing and Temblor Brewing Company typically have branded t-shirts, caps, and hoodies. Apparel often features logos or artwork related to the brewery's most popular beers.
Glassware: Custom pint glasses, growlers, and specialty beer glasses such as tulips or snifters are available, often adorned with the distinct branding of local favorites like Lengthwise Brewing Company or Verdugo Market.
Stickers and Decals: These small yet popular items are a common sight. They're perfect for personalizing laptops, car bumpers, or beer fridges with beer-themed designs and logos.
Coasters and Barware: For those looking to bring the craft beer atmosphere home, coasters and barware items are must-haves—allowing Bakersfield craft beer fans to recreate the brewery experience.
Bottle Openers and Beer Flights: Practical items like unique bottle openers and wooden beer flight paddles are also readily available, some of which are handcrafted by local artisans.
Item Description Example Places to Purchase Apparel T-shirts, caps, hoodies with brewery logos Dionysus Brewing, Temblor Brewing Glassware Branded pint glasses, growlers, tulips Lengthwise Brewing, Verdugo Market Stickers Beer-themed designs for personalization Various Breweries, Specialty Stores Coasters/Barware Items to enhance home bar setups Local Breweries, Craft Beer Stores Bottle Openers/Beer Flights Tools for opening and serving craft beer Craft Beer Stores, Artisan Markets
Collectors and fans can visit local craft beer stores or brewery gift shops to find these items, ensuring their collection reflects the rich craft beer culture found in Bakersfield.
Spotlight on Brewery Owners and Staff
In Bakersfield, the local craft beer scene is a vibrant testament to the passion and dedication of its brewery owners and staff. Proponents of the craft like Frank "Pancho" Miranda, who runs 2nd Phase Brewing Co. in downtown Bakersfield, pour their expertise and creativity into every pint, with offerings like the distinctive Eastchester West Coast IPA.
Lengthwise Brewing, a standout since 2002, showcases the persistent drive of its team to deliver a diverse range of beers. The brewpub operates multiple locations which have become a staple in the community, inviting patrons to explore the breadth of their brewing capabilities.
Here's a look at some of the figures that shape the Bakersfield craft beer narrative:
Brewery Notable Figure Contribution
2nd Phase Brewing Frank "Pancho" Miranda Emphasizes local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Lengthwise Brewing Local Ownership Consistently provides a unique and varied beer menu.
Other Local Breweries Various Staff Members Contribute to a combined estimate of $15 million in industry value and around 200 local jobs.
Each establishment reflects not only the individual personalities of its owners and brewers but also a shared commitment to quality and community. They're characterized by enthusiastic teams that are eager to share their love of craft beer, whether through the brewing process or engaging with customers. As they guide tours, serve up fresh pints, and discuss flavor profiles, the camaraderie and collective passion for brewing become abundantly clear. These qualities contribute to making Bakersfield a cherished destination for craft beer enthusiasts.
Essentials of Serving and Enjoying Craft Beer
When one delves into the world of craft beer, understanding the essentials of serving and enjoying such beverages can greatly enhance the experience. Here is a structured guide:
Temperature: Serve most craft beers between 45-55°F. Stouts and porters can be enjoyed slightly warmer to enhance their complex flavors.
IPA: 45-50°F
Stout/Porter: 50-55°F
Lager: 40-45°F
Glassware: Choose the right glass to unlock a beer's aroma and taste.
Pint Glasses: Versatile and perfect for a variety of beer styles.
Snifters: Ideal for beers with complex aromas.
Tulip Glasses: Enhance the sensory experience of Belgian ales and IPAs.
Pouring: To pour a craft beer, tilt the glass and aim for the middle, gradually straightening as the glass fills. This method ensures a moderate head, releasing aromatics and flavors.
Pairing: Complement craft beer with food to elevate both. Cheeses, meats, and even chocolates can be paired to contrast or complement beer's profile.
Appreciation: Take the time to observe the beer's appearance, smell its bouquet, and savor the flavors. Craft beer is not just a drink but an experience.
When toasting with craft beer, saying "cheers" involves more than the clinking of glasses. It’s a shared moment of appreciation for the craftsmanship and quality. Avoid mixing with cocktails, wine, or spirits to fully enjoy the distinct character of the beer. Remember, craft beer is the star of its own show.
Local and West Coast Influence
Bakersfield, California, has firmly established itself on the craft beer map, embracing the West Coast enthusiasm for artisanal brews. The local breweries reflect both the distinctive Californian vibe and the broader West Coast trend of innovative and bold beer-making. They often highlight locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the region's agricultural richness.
Lengthwise Brewing and 2nd Phase Brewing are prominent figures in the Bakersfield craft beer scene. Lengthwise Brewing is known for its commitment to quality and the West Coast tradition of hop-forward beers. Meanwhile, 2nd Phase Brewing epitomizes the local ethos with its Eastchester West Coast IPA, a nod to the classic California style IPA with its bright, citrusy profile and assertive hop bitterness.
In town, Dionysus Brewing stands out for its diverse range, especially its sours, which have garnered high praise for their complexity and innovation. These sours do more than just quench thirst; they are reflective of a West Coast penchant for pushing the boundaries of traditional beer styles.
Local Breweries in Bakersfield Specialty
Lengthwise Brewing American Ales, Hop-Forward Beers
2nd Phase Brewing West Coast IPAs
Dionysus Brewing Sours and Experimental Brews
These local breweries contribute to the fabric of Bakersfield's community, often being the go-to places where residents and visitors alike can experience the blend of local flair and West Coast innovation. The city's engagement with craft beer makers to promote Bakersfield as a beer destination further solidifies its role in the West Coast craft beer movement.
