West Covina, CA Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Essential Brewery Itinerary
West Covina, California, is a vibrant community that has witnessed an evolving enthusiasm for craft beer. The local scene offers a welcoming array of options for enthusiasts looking to explore unique and flavorful brews. With a selection that ranges from homegrown microbreweries to specialized liquor stores, residents and visitors alike have the luxury of experiencing a broad spectrum of craft beer. The craft beer movement has been warmly embraced in West Covina, providing a canvas for both aficionados and casual drinkers to savor the complexities of artisanal brews.
Among the standout destinations for craft beer in West Covina are retail establishments like West Covina Liquor and Craft Beer Kings, which are known for their extensive selection. Breweries such as Common Corners Brewing and Arrow Lodge Brewing push the boundaries with their innovative brewing techniques and creative flavor profiles. For those looking to gather around a pint and socialize, The Republic and Alosta Brewing Co offer an inviting atmosphere matched with an impressive roster of beers.
The availability of craft beer in West Covina reflects the community's growing interest in quality and diversity. With knowledgeable staff and a focus on customer satisfaction, the local breweries and stores ensure a welcoming environment for exploring craft beer. The town's establishments make it a priority to stock a variety of styles, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, guaranteeing something to please every palate. West Covina stands as a promising destination for craft beer enthusiasts due to its dedication to offering a rich selection of California's finest beers.
History of Craft Beer in West Covina
West Covina, located in the heart of California, has witnessed the craft beer movement expand from its early beginnings to the rise of a diverse selection of local breweries.
Early Beginnings
In the broader context of California and the United States, the craft beer scene found its resurgence during the 1960s and 1970s, a period marked by the proliferation of homebrewing. Although specific details about the very onset of craft brewing in West Covina are scarce, it can be understood that this local movement was part of the larger national craft beer revolution.
Rise of Local Breweries
By the 1990s, the craft beer enthusiasm reached a crescendo across California, including West Covina, leading to the establishment of multiple local breweries. These breweries have since carved out a niche, contributing to the city's vibrant beer culture. Places like Campsite Brewing Company have gained a reputation for their ambiance and an array of flavorful beers, encompassing the essence of West Covina's brewing renaissance. Moreover, smaller establishments, such as Common Corners Brewing, point to the growth of nano breweries within the area, highlighting a deep appreciation for locally-crafted beer.
Guide to West Covina Breweries
West Covina, nestled in the San Gabriel Valley region of Los Angeles County, offers an impressive collection of breweries for enthusiasts seeking premium craft beers. Each brewery presents a unique experience with distinctive brews that cater to various palates.
Campsite Brewing Company
Campsite Brewing Company brings the spirit of outdoor adventure into their beers. They offer an array of craft beers that are perfect for those who enjoy flavors inspired by nature and escapades under the open sky.
Pacific Plate Brewing Company
Pacific Plate Brewing Company stands out with their use of Latin American ingredients, producing exciting flavors that pay homage to the diverse cultural heritage of Southern California.
Highpoint Brewing Company
Highpoint Brewing Company prides itself on a wide selection of beers. They are known for exceeding expectations with a consistent lineup that includes everything from robust stouts to refreshing IPAs.
Congregation Brewery
Congregation Brewery merges the art of brewing with a communal atmosphere. Their philosophy encompasses more than just beer; it’s about bringing people together, making it a staple in West Covina’s growing craft beer scene.
Brewery Tours and Experiences
West Covina offers a plethora of brewery tours, tasting sessions, and brewing workshops for enthusiasts to explore the local craft beer scene. Visitors can expect an engaging look at the brewing process and a wide selection of beers to sample.
Scheduled Tours
West Covina's brewery tours provide a curated experience, giving an in-depth view into the local craft beer industry. LA Beer Hop is known for its engaging guided tours, which often include multiple breweries, introducing patrons to various styles of craft beer. Best Coast Tours is another highly recommended service, offering tours that often include historical insights into the areas visited.
Tasting Sessions
Patrons can indulge in tasting sessions at breweries like Arrow Lodge Brewing, which showcases a commitment to both traditional and unique beer flavors. These sessions allow individuals to sample a diverse range of beers, from staple IPAs to experimental brews. Typically, breweries may offer a flight of selected beers, enabling visitors to savor a variety of styles in one sitting.
Brewing Workshops
For those interested in the craft of brewing, some local breweries and companies provide workshops. These hands-on sessions are designed to teach the intricacies of brewing craft beer. Workshops cater to both beginners and seasoned homebrewers, focusing on different brewing methods, ingredients, and beer styles. Participation in these workshops often concludes with the creation of a personal brew.
Popular Craft Beers and Selections
West Covina's vibrant craft beer scene is defined by its array of local favorites, seasonal offerings, and exclusive brews that cater to a variety of palates, from aficionados of Belgian-style ales to lovers of robust Sierra Nevada IPAs.
Local Favorites
West Covina's beer enthusiasts frequently flock to establishments like The Republic and Arrow Lodge Brewing for their consistently popular selections. These locations boast a repertoire that includes bold IPAs and uniquely flavored brews such as cherry and peach flavored beers, satisfying both traditional and adventurous tastes.
Seasonal Offerings
Craft beer aficionados in West Covina anticipate the seasonal rotations that local breweries like Common Corners Brewing and Alosta Brewing Co introduce. These often include a range of Belgians, known for their complex yeast profiles and spices, and Sierra Nevada IPAs, renowned for their hop-forward character and piney, citrus notes.
Exclusive Brews
For those seeking a taste of something truly special, many West Covina brewers offer exclusive brews that can only be found in their taprooms. Limited releases might feature a Red Ale with a balance of malts and hops or a barrel-aged specialty that boasts a rich, deep flavor profile. These offerings are often available in small quantities, making each sip a unique experience for the beer connoisseur.
Places to Enjoy Craft Beer
West Covina, CA boasts a vibrant scene for craft beer enthusiasts. With an assortment of establishments offering a wide variety of local brews, aficionados can find plenty of venues to savor their favorite ales and lagers.
Bars and Restaurants
The Republic and Bun Street are prime spots for craft beer lovers. The Republic, with its curated selection of craft beers, caters to an array of tastes. Bun Street complements its craft beer offerings with a menu suited for any foodie looking to pair their drink with a delicious meal.
The Republic
Location: West Covina, CA
Features: Diverse craft beer selection
Bun Street
Location: West Covina, CA
Features: Craft beer paired with gourmet food
Outdoor Beer Gardens
Patrons preferring to enjoy their brews al fresco will appreciate establishments like Campsite Brewing Company. Boasting an outdoor setting, it captures the essence of the great outdoors in the heart of the city. Its location on East Front St brings the vibe of camping to the urban environment, making it a unique visit for those who appreciate an open-air experience.
Campsite Brewing Company
Location: 321 E Front St, Covina, CA
Features: Outdoor beer garden with camping-inspired foods
Brewery Taprooms
Arrow Lodge Brewing and Alosta Brewing Co are standout brewery taprooms featuring their own crafted beers. Arrow Lodge Brewing offers a cozy taproom experience on Vincent Ave, while Alosta Brewing Co, situated on Glendora Ave, presents its patrons with a range of styles. Both venues are known for their dog-friendly atmosphere, making them ideal for visitors wanting to share the experience with their four-legged friends.
Arrow Lodge Brewing
Location: Vincent Ave, West Covina, CA
Features: Cozy taproom, dog-friendly
Alosta Brewing Co
Location: Glendora Ave, Covina, CA
Features: Variety of beer styles, dog-friendly
Each establishment offers its unique flair to the craft beer scene, contributing to the rich tapestry of West Covina's beverage culture. Whether guests prefer the lively ambiance of a bar, the fresh air of beer gardens, or the intimate setting of a taproom, there is something to satisfy every craft beer enthusiast's palate.
Food Pairings and Cuisine
West Covina's craft beer scene complements its local cuisine, providing ample opportunities for both traditional dining and outdoor food experiences. The right beer can elevate a meal, and local breweries and restaurants work together to offer pairings that highlight the flavors of both the dishes and the craft brews.
Local Cuisine Pairings
West Covina's craft beer selections are well-suited to pair with the area's diverse menu offerings. Cocina - Azusa, for instance, presents dishes that can be paired with a local hoppy IPA to balance out spicy and bold flavors. The pairing of zesty cuisine with a crisp, citrus-infused craft ale allows each bite and sip to bring out the best in each other.
Takeout and Craft Beer
Takeout dinner from West Covina's myriad of eateries can be enhanced with the local craft beer scene. Whether it's a rich stout coupled with a hearty burger from a local pub, or a light pilsner that cuts through the richness of a decadent dessert, there's a West Covina craft beer to match every takeout meal. "The Cove" offers a selection that pairs nicely with the takeout options available in the city.
Outdoor Food Experiences
West Covina patrons often enjoy their craft beer alongside food in the fresh outdoors. A nice lager from a local brewer, when paired with simple yet flavorful street food, can create a memorable outdoor food experience. For those who enjoy dining al fresco, some local breweries encourage visitors to bring outside food to enjoy with their freshly tapped ales and lagers, fostering a welcoming community atmosphere.
Events and Community
West Covina serves as a vibrant hub for craft beer enthusiasts, offering a variety of events that bring the community together to celebrate local brews.
Local Beer Festivals
In West Covina, CA, residents and visitors can immerse themselves in the local beer scene through annual festivals. These gatherings typically feature a selection of craft beers from throughout California, providing an opportunity for breweries to showcase their finest creations. While specific event details change yearly, attendees can expect a diverse range of beer styles, tastings, and the recognition of standout brews in competition.
Brewery Events
Local breweries in West Covina often host events to launch new beers, commemorate anniversaries, or celebrate seasonal offerings. These events are focal points for the community, as they provide a space for people to connect over a shared passion for craft beer. Special tastings, brewery tours, and meet-and-greets with the brewers are common occurrences, enabling patrons to deepen their appreciation for the craft.
Community Engagement
Community engagement in West Covina extends beyond the beer itself. Breweries and beer-related events often participate in charity fundraisers, collaborate on special editions, and contribute to local causes. Subscriptions to newsletters are an excellent way for residents to stay informed about upcoming events, brewery news, and ways to get involved. These activities reinforce the collaborative spirit that defines the local craft beer community.
Craft Beer Retailers
In West Covina, CA, craft beer enthusiasts have a selection of specialist retailers offering a diverse array of local and regional brews. These retailers pride themselves on providing a wide range of craft beers to cater to various palates.
Local Liquor Stores
Freeway Liquor stands out in West Covina for its commitment to craft beer. Customers often find a curated selection that frequently includes offerings from Southern California breweries. Stone Liquor is another notable local store with a passion for craft beer, emphasizing the importance of a chilled selection for immediate enjoyment.
Freeway Liquor:
Selection: A well-regarded assortment of craft beers.
Location: Convenient for West Covina residents.
Stone Liquor:
Experience: Known for offering a personalized selection.
Craft Beer Outlets
Craft beer outlets in the area provide not just variety but also knowledge and a focused selection from notable craft beer scenes like SoCal. Nova is a celebrated craft beer label that can often be found amongst the shelves of these dedicated outlets.
Craft Beer Selection:
SoCal brews: Featuring a variety of styles from Southern California's vibrant craft beer scene.
Nova: Included in the offerings for discerning craft beer aficionados.
By spotlighting both local liquor stores and specialized craft beer outlets, West Covina caters to both casual buyers and serious craft beer collectors.
Home Brewing in West Covina
In West Covina, the craft beer enthusiast is well catered for with a bevy of resources for home brewing. Whether one is an amateur just starting out or a more experienced brewer, the local amenities support a vibrant home brewing culture with a focus on craft beer, sake, and the production of unfiltered brews.
Home Brew Supplies
Craft beer aficionados in West Covina need not look far for home brew supplies. Retailers in the area offer a variety of ingredients and equipment essential for brewing beer at home. From specialty grains to unique strains of yeast, and from fermenting buckets to bottling tools, the local suppliers ensure brewers can find exactly what they need. For those interested in brewing unfiltered beers, there are specific supplies available to support this method.
Local Homebrew Clubs
For those who prefer a communal approach to home brewing, West Covina hosts several local homebrew clubs. These clubs often gather to share insights, critique each other's brews, and collaborate on new recipes. They offer a supportive environment for both novice and experienced brewers. Members might find themselves experimenting with a range of styles, including unfiltered beers and even home-brewed sake. The clubs are more than just a hobby group; they're a place to learn and refine the craft alongside peers.
Craft Beer Education
West Covina, California, offers a variety of educational opportunities for those interested in learning about craft beer. These range from beer making courses to certification programs, providing both enthusiasts and professionals avenues to expand their knowledge and skills.
Beer Making Courses
Individuals looking to delve into the world of brewing can find beer making courses at local breweries and educational institutions. Innovation Brew Works, a brewery and cafe operated by Cal Poly Pomona, serves as an example where aspiring brewers can learn the craft. They often offer workshops and hands-on brewing sessions that cover the fundamentals of beer production, ingredient selection, and process control.
Craft Beer Certification
For those aspiring to gain formal recognition of their craft beer expertise, certification programs are available. Extensive knowledge in areas like beer styles, flavor profiles, and brewing techniques are typically necessary to achieve certification. While specific programs in West Covina are not listed, nearby establishments like The Bruery, Ballast Point, and Bootleggers may offer resources or guidance for individuals seeking to become certified beer judges or cicerones, adding a layer of professionalism to their passion for craft beer.
Conclusion
In the evolving landscape of American craft beer, West Covina stands out as a vibrant hub for beer enthusiasts. The local scene captures a blend of inviting atmospheres and a diverse selection of craft beers. Pride in quality and variety can be seen through each establishment’s offerings, from innovative brews to revered classics.
Residents and visitors alike find the spirit of West Covina intertwined with its craft beer culture. Whether seeking a bold IPA, a smooth lager, or seasonal specialties, one will encounter a friendly community eager to share these experiences. And for those who appreciate spirits beyond beer, the local scene doesn't disappoint—offering an array of American spirits to complement the craft beer selection.
Local Favorites:
Craft Beer Kings: Renowned for its extensive variety.
Arrow Lodge Brewing: For the experimenter, always brewing something new.
Common Corners Brewing: A true showcase of West Covina's craft vibe.
The town's devotion to quality is paralleled by the knowledgeable staff encountered at every turn, ensuring that both the craft beer connoisseur and the curious newcomer feel equally at home. It is clear that West Covina has distilled a formula for a thriving beer culture that appeals to a growing audience seeking authenticity in their glass.
Additional Highlights:
American-made brews are the spotlight here.
Local events often celebrate craft beer, binding the community.
Newcomers and seasoned beer lovers contribute to the dynamic environment.
Enthusiasts should consider West Covina a must-visit destination on their craft beer explorations, where the essence of American craft beer is both honored and celebrated.
