Fontana, CA Local Craft Beer Guide: Your Ultimate Brewery Tour
Fontana, California, has witnessed a significant growth in its craft beer scene, as enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike have come to appreciate the diversity and quality of local brews. This surge is marked by a plethora of establishments ranging from family-owned breweries to innovative beer rooms that embrace the community's spirit. The city's beer selection is reflective of a thriving market that caters to a broad spectrum of tastes, from the traditional to the experimental, ensuring there's something to satisfy every type of beer drinker.
Local breweries in Fontana have carved out a niche by offering a rotating selection of craft beers that highlight the ingenuity and passion of small-batch brewing. Equipped with state-of-the-art tasting rooms and a commitment to creating a convivial atmosphere, these breweries provide a unique experience for both residents and visitors. The bond between the breweries and the community is fortified by their shared dedication to quality and the mutual support that drives the local market.
This guide aims to navigate the impressive lineup of Fontana's craft beer offerings. It underscores the standout features of each establishment, from the wide range of drafts and spritzes at Rowdy's Brew Co. to the family-friendly environment found at Hamilton Family Brewery. Understanding the importance of informed choices in the dynamic landscape of craft beer, the guide emphasizes accurate and up-to-date information about the best places to enjoy a pint in Fontana.
History of Craft Beer in Fontana
In the landscape of California’s craft beer, Fontana has carved its own niche along the vibrant Highland Avenue, laying roots in a state celebrated for its pioneering spirit in craft brewing. The city has witnessed a steady growth in local businesses turning their passion for quality brews into thriving establishments.
Craft beer enthusiasts in Fontana enjoy a selection of breweries that highlight local ingredients and innovative brewing techniques. These breweries have become community hubs, reflecting the creativity and diversity of California's craft beer history. The push for local businesses to create unique and flavorful beers resonates with Fontana's dedication to community and craftsmanship.
One key to Fontana's burgeoning scene has been collaboration, with breweries often working together to host events, showcases, and beer releases. This communal approach has bolstered the reputation of Fontana's craft beer offerings and has encouraged a culture of sharing and innovation.
Here's a snapshot of Fontana's craft beer journey:
Local Involvement: Fontana's breweries have grown with a strong local support, emphasizing connections with customers and other small businesses.
Highland Avenue Hotspots: The city's main drag includes brewery taprooms and gastropubs where craft beer takes center stage.
Cultivated Flavors: Brewers in Fontana focus on crafting beers that pay homage to California’s rich array of local produce, echoing the state's agricultural bounty.
Fontana's craft beer landscape continues to evolve, propelled by a community that values high-quality, locally-made products and the allure of Californian innovation in the art of brewing.
Top Fontana Breweries
Fontana's craft beer scene showcases a selection of breweries that pride themselves on quality and uniqueness, ranging from family ventures to all-sour beer specialists. Each brewery brings its own distinct flavor to Fontana's growing reputation as a destination for artisan beer makers.
Hamilton Family Brewery
Hamilton Family Brewery began as a couple's dream, transforming into a popular destination for those seeking a variety of fresh, handcrafted beers. Their commitment to community and passion for brewing make them a cornerstone of Fontana’s craft beer scene.
Kings Brewing Co.
Kings Brewing Co. stands out for its creative approach to brewing, often experimenting with flavors and styles. Their offerings include a range of IPAs and stouts, which have quickly earned them acclaim beyond the borders of Fontana.
Solorio Brewing Company
Solorio Brewing Company is a smaller operation with a big following, known for its dedication to creating bold flavors. They carefully craft each batch, building a loyal customer base in Fontana and attracting beer enthusiasts from across the region.
3 Iron Brewing Company
3 Iron Brewing Company pays homage to the local golfing community with its golf-themed brewery. Their diverse beer selection scores a hole-in-one with fans who appreciate their consistently excellent brews.
Rowdy's Brew Co.
Rowdy’s Brew Co., a more recent addition to Fontana’s brewery lineup, offers an array of drafts in a family-friendly setting. This spot is quickly becoming a go-to for locals and visitors eager to explore new beer horizons.
Sour Cellars
Specializing in barrel-aged sours, Sour Cellars is an all-sour brewery that brings a unique taste to the area. Their commitment to the craft is evident, catering to those who have a preference for the tangy and tart side of beer.
Oggi’s Sports and Brewhouse
Oggi’s Sports and Brewhouse combines sports viewing with a dining experience that includes a lineup of craft beers brewed on the premises. Their well-rounded menu complements the diverse beer selection, providing options for all palates.
Rescue Brewery & Gastropub
Rescue Brewery & Gastropub not only serves up finely brewed beers but also does so with a cause, supporting first responders through their establishment. Their refreshing beverages and community-focused efforts leave a lasting impression.
Notable Craft Beers & Styles
Fontana's craft beer scene offers an impressive range of styles, from hop-forward ales to rich stouts and innovative sour beers, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences.
Pale Ales & IPAs
Eagle IPA stands out as a locally favored IPA, well-known for its balance of hops and malt, delivering a crisp and refreshing experience. Pale ales are also prevalent, often showcasing a slightly less intense bitterness.
Lagers & Pilsners
Lagers are celebrated for their clarity and crispness, with Pretzel Back Pilsner being a popular choice among Fontana's beer enthusiasts. This style is often associated with a clean profile and a subtle balance between hops and malts.
Stouts & Porters
For a richer brew, Grand Slam Golden Coffee Stout presents a bold flavor profile by combining the body of a stout with the invigorating taste of coffee. This style is known for its depth and complexity.
Sour & Barrel-Aged Beers
Fontana's Sour Cellars is noted for its exquisite range of sour and barrel-aged beers, which are meticulously crafted to create unique profiles. These styles can range from tart and fruity to rich and wood-infused.
Specialty & Seasonal Offerings
Seasonal beers like Watermelon Blond and Mango Blonde capture the essence of Fontana's sunny locales. Brewers also experiment with unique flavors, such as Cucumber Kolsch and the cocktail-inspired Cucumber Mojito. Special releases often include limited-edition beers that pair well with regional dishes like miso glazed salmon and beer-braised short ribs, highlighting the versatility of Fontana's craft beer offerings.
Local Craft Beer Experiences
Fontana, CA, offers locals and visitors a suite of hands-on craft beer experiences. One could explore brewery tours, enjoy cozy tasting rooms, or partake in vibrant craft beer events that showcase local flavors and brewing expertise.
Brewery Tours
Local breweries such as Hamilton Family Brewery and 3 Iron Brewing Company offer insightful tours into their brewing process. These tours often include a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing equipment and methodology, providing beer enthusiasts with a deeper understanding of the craft.
Example Brewery Tours:
Hamilton Family Brewery: Discover their family-oriented approach to brewing.
3 Iron Brewing Company: Learn about their innovative techniques.
Tasting Rooms
A visit to Fontana isn't complete without spending time in one of its many tasting rooms. Establishments such as The Beer Room and Rowdy's Brew Co. provide a variety of local and guest drafts in an inviting atmosphere. Many tasting rooms also have outdoor seating options, ideal for enjoying a pint in the California sun.
Key Tasting Room Features:
The Beer Room: Offers a selection of rare and unique brews.
Rowdy's Brew Co.: Welcomes all ages with a state-of-the-art tasting room.
Craft Beer Events
Fontana's craft beer scene is further enlivened by events such as happy hour specials at local restaurants, beer gardens, and venues featuring live music. September's Taproom & Eatery and other local businesses create community-centric occasions for new and seasoned beer lovers to mingle and celebrate. Workshops during these events can be an educational dive into the world of craft beer.
Craft Beer Event Highlights:
Happy hour at September's Taproom & Eatery: A great deal on local brews.
Live music at beer gardens: An enjoyable pairing of tunes and craft beer.
Pairing Food with Fontana Craft Beer
Fontana, a city in California, offers an array of craft beers that can elevate any dining experience. From rustic beers to modern brews, there’s a perfect match for every dish.
Mexican Michelada is a Fontana favorite. Layered with complex flavors, it's best paired with spicy dishes to complement its zest. An ideal pairing would be with Fish Tacos, embracing the zing of the lime and the kick of the chili powder within the michelada.
Beer-Braised Short Ribs, a succulent and hearty dish, finds a partner in a robust porter or stout. Its deep, malty flavors intertwine with the richness of the meat, enhancing the caramelization and smokey notes.
For lighter fare, such as Miso Glazed Salmon, consider a wheat beer or a blonde ale. The subtle citrus undertones of the beer will harmonize with the delicate sweetness of the miso.
Fontana’s Rustic Beers, often earthy with a hint of spice, pair seamlessly with local artisanal cheeses and charcuterie (What wine goes well with charcuterie?), making them ideal for a casual dining experience at one of the city's many craft beer-friendly restaurants.
Pairing Table for Fontana Craft Beer and Food:
Craft Beer Type Food Pairing Notes
Mexican Michelada Spicy Fish Tacos Accentuates the tangy, spicy kick
Stout/Porter Beer-Braised Short Ribs Complements the rich, smoky flavor
Wheat Beer/Blonde Ale Miso Glazed Salmon Highlights the sweet undertones
Rustic Beers Artisanal Cheeses & Charcuterie Matches earthy, spicy notes
One can find these pairings and more at local Fontana brewpubs and restaurants, offering patrons a true taste of the region's craft beer scene.
Supporting Local Craft Breweries
Fontana, CA, is home to a thriving community of local craft breweries that offer a diverse range of artisanal beers. Supporting these businesses not only stimulates the local economy but also encourages a culture of creativity and craftsmanship in the California beer scene.
Craft Breweries in Fontana:
Brewery X: Known for its eclectic beer selection.
Hamilton Family Brewery: A family-run establishment with a warm atmosphere.
3 Iron Brewing Company: Offers a variety of handcrafted beers.
Rowdy's Brew Co.: Notable for its wide range of drafts and a family-friendly tasting room.
When patrons choose to support these local breweries, they are investing in individual entrepreneurs and the broader California brewing industry. California's craft beer scene, including that of San Francisco, is recognized for its innovation and quality. By choosing local Fontana breweries, craft beer enthusiasts help maintain this reputation.
Ways to Support:
Visit their taprooms and savor the beers in-house.
Purchase brewery merchandise to promote the brand.
Attend local beer festivals featuring Fontana's craft breweries.
Share your favorite Fontana brews on social media to raise awareness.
Residents and visitors alike can partake in the rich tapestry of flavors offered by Fontana's craft breweries. The city's contribution to California's craft beer legacy is significant, showcasing the state's willingness to embrace and support small businesses and artisanal practices.
Craft Beer Resources
Fontana's craft beer enthusiasts have a wealth of resources at their disposal that extend beyond the taproom. From educational opportunities to detailed beer reviews and specialized accessories, local businesses are keen to provide everything needed to enhance the craft beer experience.
Educational Workshops
Local breweries and businesses, such as Hamilton Family Brewery and 3 Iron Brewing Company, often host workshops that allow individuals to learn about the brewing process, local ingredients, and the subtleties of different beer styles. These workshops are designed to enlighten both new and seasoned beer aficionados. Interested parties should check the breweries' websites or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on upcoming workshops.
Beer Review Platforms
Fans looking for guidance on the best local brews can turn to various online platforms where they will find reviews that break down the beer selection in detail. Certified reviewers and community members contribute their thoughts on the latest offerings, taste profiles, and the quality of the brews. Platforms such as Yelp are commonly used to share and access these reviews.
Local Craft Beer Accessories
For those looking to support local businesses while enjoying their favorite craft beer, there are shops offering an array of accessories crafted with the beer enthusiast in mind. Ranging from customized glassware to apparel, these products often incorporate local themes and are sometimes created using local materials. Establishments like Liquor Paradise provide not only a variety of craft beers but also accessories to complement them. Customers can reach out via the 'Contact Us' option on their website to inquire about the selection available.
