Fort Collins, CO Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Ultimate Brewery Roadmap
Fort Collins, Colorado, affectionately known as FoCo, holds a revered status in the craft beer scene. Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, this vibrant city boasts a rich brewing heritage and a community passionately dedicated to the art of craft beer. With over 20 operational craft breweries, Fort Collins has become a beacon for beer enthusiasts, offering a vast array of styles and flavors that reflect the creativity and expertise of local brewers.
The breweries in Fort Collins range from well-established names recognized across the nation, such as New Belgium Brewing Co., to innovative newcomers setting the pace in brewing experimentation. Tasting rooms and breweries are key social hubs in the city, providing a space for both locals and tourists to gather, sample, and celebrate the diverse offerings of Fort Collins' craft beer.
Beyond the draw of individual flavors, Fort Collins breweries contribute significantly to the local economy and social fabric. They provide a unique blend of traditional and pioneering beer crafting techniques, positioning Fort Collins as a leader in the national craft beer movement. Whether one is in search of a bold IPA, a complex sour, or a refreshing lager, the Fort Collins beer scene delivers with quality and consistency.
History of Craft Beer in Fort Collins
Fort Collins, Colorado, has a storied history in the craft beer scene that dates back to before it became a notable hub for beer enthusiasts. Prohibition shaped the city's early alcohol landscape, but the eventual lift of restrictions ushered in a new era for craft brewing.
Pioneers of the Local Brew Scene
One of the earliest contributors to the Fort Collins craft beer scene was Odell Brewing Co., which laid its roots in 1989 and quickly became a cornerstone for the community. They set the foundation for a flourishing craft beer culture in Northern Colorado. Soon after, in 1991, New Belgium Brewing emerged, and with it brought an innovative and sustainable approach to beer-making that would go on to define the ethos of the local brewing community.
Evolution of Breweries
From a handful of pioneers, Fort Collins' brewery count has expanded significantly. It is known for a diverse collection of over 20 craft breweries. Each establishment offers a unique angle on beer production, from classic lagers and stouts to experimental and barrel-aged brews. Fort Collins is not just a destination for beer connoisseurs; it's a testament to how a community's culture can be shaped and defined by craft beer.
Guide to Fort Collins Breweries
Fort Collins, known for its vigorous craft beer scene, is home to over 20 breweries, including renowned institutions like New Belgium Brewing Company and Odell Brewing Company. Visitors have the chance to enjoy a variety of unique, locally brewed craft beers across the city's numerous taprooms.
New Belgium Brewing Company
New Belgium Brewing Company is one of the pivotal players in Fort Collins' craft beer culture as well as the fourth-largest craft brewer in the United States. It prides itself on being a 100% employee-owned brewery. The taproom offers an array of flagship beers and experimental brews.
Odell Brewing Company
With a local history spanning more than 30 years, Odell Brewing Company has established itself as a staple of the Fort Collins brewery scene. This brewery is notable for its diverse range of craft beers and a strong community presence. The flagship taproom remains a favorite among both locals and visitors.
Funkwerks
Funkwerks is a brewery that specializes in 'saison' style and other Belgian-inspired beers. Their focus on unique flavors and seasonal offerings places them among the top craft breweries in Fort Collins. Small batch series frequently appear alongside their core lineup.
Equinox Brewing
A central fixture in the Fort Collins brewery lineup, Equinox Brewing balances traditional styles with innovative brewing techniques. Beer enthusiasts often gather at their taproom for the welcoming ambiance and the regularly rotating taps that feature seasonal specialties.
Snowbank Brewing
As one of the newer additions to the craft brewery scene, Snowbank Brewing is known for its creative approach to beer making. They craft a wide array of beers, from crisp, refreshing lagers to rich, dark stouts, appealing to a broad spectrum of palates.
Jessup Farm Barrel House
Lastly, the Jessup Farm Barrel House is revered for their artisanal barrel-aged brews. They offer a wide selection of beers that have been aged in various barrels to impart complex flavors and aromas. With a high rating among craft beer connoisseurs, they also provide food and maintain a comfortable atmosphere for their guests.
Specialty Brews and Unique Offerings
Fort Collins breweries have mastered a variety of unique beer styles, with a special focus on sours and barrel-aged brews, as well as small-batch productions that include saison styles and German beer varieties. These offerings cater to connoisseurs seeking distinctive flavors and brewing techniques.
Sours and Barrel-Aged
The sour beer aficionados are drawn to Fort Collins for its remarkable selection. One standout is the Chai spiced barrel-aged sour, which has become a local favorite. The city's breweries have earned acclaim for their Nightmare on Brett, a dark sour ale aged in oak barrels that presents complex layers of flavor.
Saisons and Small Batch Productions
Saisons are a staple in Fort Collins' craft beer scene. These small batch productions are the brewers' playground for creativity and often feature seasonal ingredients, resulting in refreshing and diverse flavors. The local breweries excel in crafting these farmhouse-style ales, with their robust character and spicy, fruity notes.
Cask Ales and German Beer Varieties
Fort Collins also boasts excellence in German beer varieties, including Bavarian-style Pilsners, Munich-style Amber Lagers, and Wiener-style Golden Lagers. These traditional offerings are complemented by the unique experience of cask ales—unfiltered and naturally carbonated beers served from a cask without additional nitrogen or carbon dioxide pressure.
Craft Beer Experiences and Events
Fort Collins offers an array of immersive craft beer experiences, from taproom tastings complete with guided tours to vibrant festivals that showcase the city's love for artisanal brews. Connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike can embark on beer adventures that often include educational components, such as a free tasting journal to document the journey.
Taproom Tastings and Tours
Visitors can enjoy taproom tastings by exploring the over 20 craft breweries that call Fort Collins home. New Belgium Brewing Co., for instance, offers an informative tour, providing an insight into their sustainable brewing practices and a chance to sample their beers. Many breweries also offer flights, allowing patrons to taste a range of brews in a single visit.
Brewery Tour Available Flight Offerings Unique Feature
New Belgium Yes Extensive options Free tasting journal
Gilded Goat No Rotating selection Art and science blend in beer
Festivals and Beer Events
The city is known for its engaging beer festivals, such as the famous Tour de Fat and the Colorado Brewer's Festival. These events celebrate the best of local and regional craft beers, featuring live music, entertainment, and the chance for attendees to discover their next favorite brew in a fun and lively atmosphere.
Tour de Fat: A costumed bicycle parade that culminates in a festival of music, performance, and beer.
Fortoberfest: Offers a taste of Germany with local Colorado craft beer.
Beer and Food Pairings
Craft breweries in Fort Collins often make food an integral part of the beer tasting experience. Pairing events are an excellent opportunity for visitors to discover how different beers complement and enhance various flavors. Several breweries offer specialized menus or collaborate with local food vendors to deliver a memorable pairing experience.
Nightmare on Brett: Sour beer that pairs well with spicy cuisine.
Local Craft Eateries: Diverse food options available to match with a wide range of beer styles.
Pairing Food with Craft Beer
In Fort Collins, the art of pairing craft beer with food has been refined to enhance the dining experience. Patrons are invited to explore a diverse range of flavors that local cuisine and craft beers bring to the table.
Local Food Trucks
The streets of Fort Collins are bustling with food trucks offering eclectic eats that can be perfectly paired with the city's craft beer offerings. For instance, crispy truck-side tacos or gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches can magnify the hoppy notes of an IPA from Rally King Brewing. Visitors may find these food trucks parked at brewery taprooms or roaming the city during food truck rallies.
Suggested Pairings:
Tacos with IPA
Gourmet Grilled Cheese with Amber Ale
Brewery Restaurants and Eats
Brewery restaurants like DC Oakes Brewhouse & Eatery take pairing to the next level by crafting menus that complement their beer selection. Patrons can enjoy robust meals like a juicy burger or a savory steak, which bring out the rich flavors of a stout or a porter.
Must-Try Pairings:
Burger with Stout
Steak with Porter
By visiting these spots, one not only enjoys the vast variety of craft beers but also gets a taste of the local culinary scene—a true delight for both foodies and beer enthusiasts alike.
Beyond Beer: Exploring Cideries and Wineries
While Fort Collins is renowned for its vibrant beer culture, the city also boasts a robust selection of cideries and wineries. If you're looking to complement your craft beer experience with locally produced ciders and wines, there are several notable spots to explore.
Local Cideries
In Fort Collins, Summit Hard Cider is a standout establishment that serves a variety of seasonal and classic ciders. At their tap house, you can expect to find an array of options with gluten-free choices included. For a more local touch, Branch Out Cider, a community orchard that sources apples from local backyards, offers a genuine taste of Fort Collins. Another popular destination is Scrumpy's Hard Cider Bar, which provides a cozy atmosphere to enjoy numerous cider selections as well as a full menu.
Summit Hard Cider: Seasonal & classic cider options, gluten-free available
Branch Out Cider: Local community-sourced apples
Scrumpy's Hard Cider Bar: Wide cider selection & full menu
Fort Collins Wineries
Ten Bears Winery stands out when discussing Fort Collins' winemaking. Embracing the art of viniculture, Ten Bears offers an array of wines that reflect the local palate and terroir. The winery takes pride in producing wines from hand-picked grapes, emphasizing quality and local flavors. While visiting Fort Collins, sampling the local wine at Ten Bears provides insight into the region's potential in winemaking.
Ten Bears Winery: Hand-picked grapes, focuses on quality and local flavors
Visitors will find that the city's offerings go beyond craft beer, with cideries and wineries enriching the local beverage scene, providing a full spectrum of crafted drinks to explore.
Distilleries and Other Craft Beverages
Fort Collins, known for its robust beer culture, also offers a rich selection of distilleries and craft beverages that provide a refreshing alternative to beer enthusiasts and spirit connoisseurs alike.
Artisanal Spirits and Distilling
Distilleries in Fort Collins have garnered attention for their artisanal spirits. They champion the use of local Colorado botanicals and fruits to create distinct flavors. NOCO Distillery stands out for its commitment to local ingredients and environmental consciousness, showcasing a diverse range of crafts spirits that demonstrate the city's dedication to refining the distilling process.
Premium Spirits:
NOCO Distillery: Recognized for local Colorado botanicals in their offerings.
Old Town Distilling Co.: Known for innovative techniques and passionate craftsmanship.
The Heart Distillery: A distillery that emphasizes on quality of production.
Operating Hours (example entity):
NOCO Distillery: Open Tuesday 10 AM-3 PM, Wednesday 10 AM-8 PM, and Thursday 10 AM-5 PM.
Visitors looking to explore these locations will find an environment ripe with creativity and a focus on craft perfection.
Exploring Non-Beer Craft Options
Aside from distilleries, Fort Collins presents an array of non-beer craft options for those seeking variety. Envy Brewing dives into the craft beverage culture with innovative brews that stand apart from traditional beer selections. Their portfolio extends beyond the common offerings, bringing a new dynamic to the city’s beverage scene.
Craft Beverage Culture:
Envy Brewing: Positioned as a leader in crafting unique brews.
CopperMuse Distillery: Another local favorite known for versatility in craft beverages.
Fort Collins' craft beverage artisans not only excel in conventional spirits but also in creating a diverse spectrum of unique, high-quality consumables that contribute the city's reputation as a hub for craft beverage excellence.
Planning Your Craft Beer Journey
Planning a trip to explore the vibrant craft beer scene in Fort Collins requires strategic thinking to ensure travelers get the most out of what the city has to offer. It has become a hallmark of Northern Colorado, seamlessly blending the love for hops and the love for bikes.
Craft Beer Itineraries
Craft beer enthusiasts should consider the wealth of brewery options available. Fort Collins is a hub with over 20 craft breweries, including New Belgium Brewing Co. and notable sour beer selections. A sample itinerary could look like this:
Day 1: Start with a tour at New Belgium Brewing Co., then proceed to Odell Brewing Co for a diverse tasting lineup.
Day 2: Explore the unique flavors of sour beers at a local favorite that is renowned for its wild and chai spiced sour beers.
Day 3: Dedicate to visiting smaller, niche breweries scattered around the Old Town area and beyond.
Visitors are encouraged to check each brewery's website for the most current tours and tasting schedules.
Bike-Friendly Brewery Routes
Fort Collins' passion for eco-friendly transportation and craft beer come together on the city's bike-friendly roads. For those who prefer a pedal-powered brewery tour, Fort Collins offers several bike-friendly brewery routes, including:
Old Town Area: A leisurely ride with stops at centrally located breweries.
Poudre River Trail: Combine scenic views and craft beer at breweries located along this route.
Bikes can be rented from various outlets in the Old Town, ensuring travelers have the flexibility to create their personalized brewery route.
Accommodations and Transportation
When it comes to accommodations, visitors to Fort Collins have options ranging from charming bed and breakfasts in the Old Town area to more traditional hotels throughout the city. Here are a few considerations:
Stay in Old Town: This will put travelers in the heart of the city, within walking distance of several breweries.
Consider Wellington: For those seeking quieter surroundings, Wellington is a short drive away and offers a different pace of Northern Colorado life.
Fort Collins offers a mix of transportation options, including local bus services, bike rentals, and ride-sharing services to ensure visitors can safely enjoy their brewery tours.
Connecting with the Craft Beer Community
For those eager to dive into the communal aspect of Fort Collins' craft beer scene, engaging with local meetups and staying informed through social media and newsletters are essential methods of connection.
Local Craft Beer Meetups
Craft beer culture in Fort Collins thrives through various meetups, where aficionados and newcomers alike can share their appreciation for finely brewed beverages. Bars like DC Oakes Brewhouse serve as common grounds for these gatherings, offering a selection of craft beers that invite discussion and enjoyment amongst peers.
Purpose Brewing and Cellars often becomes a focal point for these meetups, as its unique approach to brewing sparks interest and conversation within the community.
Social Media and Newsletters
Keeping track of events and releases is streamlined through the proactive use of social media. Breweries, bars, and craft beer enthusiasts maintain an active online presence, curating timely updates and fostering a sense of camaraderie over platforms like Twitter and Instagram.
Crooked Stave in Fort Collins is known to adeptly use social media to inform beer enthusiasts about their sour beer selection’s latest offerings.
Many local breweries and craft beer venues offer newsletters that interested individuals can subscribe to for the latest news, events, and special releases. This ensures that subscribers are amongst the first to know about new brews hitting the taps or shelves.
Entrepreneurship and Craft Beer Business
Fort Collins has become a hub for craft beer enthusiasts, merging entrepreneurial spirit with a taste for innovation. This guide examines the flourishing craft beer scene from a business perspective, focusing on the startup culture and the economic influence of this growing industry.
Brewery Startups and Expansion
Fort Collins, Colorado, is a fertile ground for brewery startups and their expansion. The establishment of breweries like Purpose Brewing and Intersect Brewing exemplifies a pattern of thoughtful entrepreneurship paired with a passion for the craft beer culture. Purpose Brewing not only creates unique brews but also enhances the consumer experience by focusing on small-batch, artisanal beers. Intersect Brewing, with a strong community focus, contributes to Fort Collins' reputation as a family-friendly beer destination.
Gilded Goat Brewing Co. represents a case of strategic expansion within the industry. They have capitalized on the city's vibrant atmosphere and the consumer's desire for innovative and locally-sourced beers. Their location within a bustling college town drives consistent traffic, appealing to both locals and visitors.
Business Models and Industry Impact
The business models of Fort Collins breweries vary but thrive on a few common principles: innovation, community engagement, and sustainable practices. Breweries often pursue direct sales through taprooms which serve as both tasting areas and social gathering spots, nurturing a direct connection with patrons. Here’s a brief overview of the business models in play:
Taproom-centered Model: Focuses on in-house sales, community events, and repeated foot traffic.
Distribution Model: Prioritizes wide distribution through local and regional outlets.
The industry impact of the craft beer business in Colorado, particularly in Fort Collins, extends beyond mere entertainment. Breweries like those in Denver and across the state contribute significantly to the local economy, not only through job creation but also by becoming tourist attractions and driving subsidiary service businesses. INC, as an organization, may provide support in terms of business development, reflecting the symbiotic relationship between the craft beer industry and the Colorado economy.
The craft beer industry's role in the Fort Collins economy showcases the importance of entrepreneurial endeavors aligning with community values and consumer trends to create businesses that resonate with locals and visitors alike.
Educational Resources and Craft Beer Learning
Fort Collins offers a robust selection of educational opportunities for those interested in expanding their knowledge of craft beer. Through hands-on brewing courses and comprehensive reading materials, enthusiasts can deepen their understanding of the craft beer process and industry.
Brewing Courses and Workshops
Fort Collins caters to aspiring and current brewers through formal courses. As an example, the University of Vermont hosts a specialized beer brewing school, which covers a multitude of topics relevant to brewing science and practical skills. They offer contact information for potential students to inquire further about the programs available. Additionally, local breweries like Ramskeller provide practical workshops, and many have staff knowledgeable about the brewing process and education.
Craft Beer Books and Guides
For enthusiasts who prefer self-study, Fort Collins provides access to a variety of craft beer books and guides. The Brewers Association—a prominent organization in the craft beer industry—produces educational materials available through CraftBeer.com, such as the Beer 101 Course and the Beer & Food Course. These guides are instrumental for those who wish to learn about craft beer pairing and gain a more structured understanding of different beer styles and brewing methods.
Sustainability and Environment
Fort Collins has carved out a unique identity in the craft beer scene through its commitment to sustainability. Local breweries have taken significant strides in adopting eco-friendly practices, from sourcing local ingredients to implementing renewable energy sources.
Eco-Friendly Brewhouses
Several Fort Collins brewhouses have made environmental stewardship a cornerstone of their operation. For instance, Zwei Brewing has integrated sustainability into its brewing process by conserving water and energy. Such breweries also see the value in local partnerships that promote the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, which helps reduce their carbon footprint.
Horse & Dragon Brewing Company, meanwhile, exemplifies eco-conscious practices by utilizing sustainable materials and methods throughout their brewing processes.
Use of solar panels and other energy-efficient technologies is increasingly common among Fort Collins breweries, enhancing their sustainability profiles.
Community Involvement
A collective spirit of environmental responsibility permeates the Fort Collins community. The city's breweries often collaborate on sustainability initiatives, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.
Community-driven programs encourage recycling and resource conservation, with many local breweries participating.
Breweries like Spoons demonstrate active community engagement by partnering with local farms, ensuring a supply chain that is both high quality and environmentally conscious.
In this way, Fort Collins' craft breweries are not just places to enjoy a pint; they are active contributors to a healthier planet.
Craft Beer Awards and Recognition
Fort Collins holds a notable position in the craft beer landscape, not just for its breadth of breweries, but also for the accolades these establishments have garnered. The city's breweries have established a legacy of excellence recognized through numerous local and national awards.
Local and National Awards
The craft breweries of Fort Collins frequently shine in competitions, reflecting their commitment to quality and innovation. Primary among these is the Colorado State Fair, where local breweries often snatch up medals across various beer categories. Gilded Goat Brewing Company, for instance, has received acclaim for its meticulous approach to brewing science, leading to award-winning beers that resonate well with judges and beer enthusiasts alike.
At the national level, Great American Beer Festival (GABF) awards are highly sought after, and Fort Collins breweries have been successful here as well. Beers are judged on a variety of criteria, including style, flavor, and overall drinking experience. The city's array of breweries has led to a strong showing at GABF year after year, with breweries like Prost Brewing Co. coming into the spotlight for their traditional German-style brews.
Spotlight on Innovative Breweries
Innovation is key to staying at the forefront of the craft beer scene. Fort Collins breweries are no exception, consistently pushing the boundaries and experimenting with new flavors and brewing techniques. The commitment to creativity often places these breweries at the center of industry recognition.
New Beer Releases: Breweries often gain attention by crafting inventive seasonal releases or special limited editions that both capture the imagination and delight the palate.
Collaboration Projects: By participating in collaborations, whether local or inter-brewery, Fort Collins breweries expand their horizons and merge different brewing philosophies, which can result in award-winning collaborations.
Among the ranks of these innovative breweries, Prost Brewing Co. stands out with its respect for tradition blended with modern twists, making it a frequent mention in beer award circles. Furthermore, places like Gilded Goat Brewing Company, with their scientific approach to craft brewing, continue to attract awards and set high standards for what beer connoisseurs can expect from the beer scene in Fort Collins.
Future Trends in Fort Collins Craft Beer
Fort Collins, a vibrant city in Colorado, is projected to experience evolving trends in craft beer styles and market growth. Craft enthusiasts and brewers are poised to lead with innovative creations and strategic expansions.
Emerging Styles and Flavors
Brewers in Fort Collins are experimenting with a variety of new styles and flavors that are anticipated to capture consumer interest. Sour beers, particularly barrel-aged variants, have gained popularity, with creations like the Chai spiced barrel aged sour setting the bar high. These offerings are pushing the envelope on traditional beer profiles, integrating unique ingredients for a complex taste experience. Local breweries may also experiment with other bold flavors, creating a niche for Fort Collins in the craft beer industry.
Growth of the Craft Beer Market
The craft beer market in Fort Collins is witnessing a robust expansion. With over 20 local craft breweries, the city's market is a mix of well-established entities like New Belgium Brewing Co. and rising stars such as the Red Truck Beer Company. The growth trajectory indicates not only an increase in the number of breweries but also an enhancement in the diversity of beer choices available. The following table outlines the growth aspects of Fort Collins breweries:
Aspect Detail
Breweries Count Rapidly increasing, with new entrants every year
Consumer Base Expanding, with rising interest in craft beer tourism
Production Volume Up-scaling to meet the demand
Distribution Widening, with breweries reaching new markets
This momentum suggests that Fort Collins could further cement its reputation as a leader in the craft beer scene, regionally and potentially nationally.
Conclusion
Fort Collins, known affectionately as FoCo, has quickly become a beacon for craft beer enthusiasts. It is home to over 20 craft breweries, including heavy hitters and innovative newcomers alike. The region's dedication to beer crafting is showcased through establishments like New Belgium Brewing Co., one of the largest craft brewers in the country. Independent and employee-owned breweries, like Odell Brewing Co., reflect the community's spirit in their business models and brewing practices.
With such a broad range of breweries, visitors can expect a diverse tasting experience. The Chai spiced barrel-aged sour is highlighted as a notable choice for those with a taste for unique flavors. For something more traditional yet equally refined, the Dream Journal Pilsner offers a locally-sourced option. Whether one is a fan of sour ales or prefers the crisp taste of a Pilsner, Fort Collins breweries cater to a spectrum of palates.
The city's craft beer scene is not just dynamic; it is also easily accessible. Breweries often pair their drinks with culinary offerings, providing a complete and enjoyable experience. Below is a shortlist of must-visit breweries in Fort Collins along with their acclaimed beers:
Brewery Notable Beer
New Belgium Brewing Co. La Folie Sour Brown Ale
Odell Brewing Co. 90 Shilling Ale
Jessup Farm Barrel House Chai Spiced Barrel-Aged Sour
Fort Collins is more than a destination; it is a journey through the rich landscape of American craft beer. Each brewery not only pours a pint but also shares a story – one of creativity, community, and passion for the perfect brew.
