Washington, DC Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Ultimate Brewery Tour
Washington, DC's burgeoning craft beer scene enhances the cultural tapestry of the nation's capital. Beyond the historical monuments and governmental hustle and bustle, local breweries craft impeccable beers that reflect the creativity and diversity of the city. These breweries serve as not only a source of local pride but also as gathering spots for residents and visitors alike. With a range of styles and flavors, the craft beer offerings in DC appeal to connoisseurs and casual drinkers, showcasing the ingenuity of American brewing in a city known for its international influence and strong community spirit.
The District has notably become a hub for beer enthusiasts, with its breweries gaining recognition for quality and innovation. Establishments like Red Bear Brewing Co. have marked their territory with unique identities, such as being 100% gay-owned and introducing Pacific Northwest vibes to the East Coast. Meanwhile, DC Brau holds a place in history as the first packaging brewery in the area since Prohibition, melding historical significance with modern-day quenchers.
This guide serves as an exploration of DC's finest breweries, offering a taste of what makes each one stand out. From the classic ales and lagers to more adventurous styles like sours and porters, each brewery contributes to a rich tapestry of flavors. Whether tucked away in the bustling streets of NoMa or stretched across the more expansive suburban areas, these craft breweries are key to experiencing the full flavor of Washington, DC.
History of DC Craft Beer
The craft beer scene in Washington, DC has undergone significant changes over the decades, ranging from the birth of local brewing to contemporary milestones that mark the region's success.
Evolution of Brewing in DC
Brewing in Washington, DC has a storied past, with its roots stretching back to the mid-20th century. DC Brau has been pivotal, establishing itself in 2009 as the first brewery to brew and distribute beer within city limits since the 1950s. Before this resurgence, the Heurich brewery's closure in 1956 represented the end of an era, leaving the capital without a native brewery for several decades.
Milestones in Local Brewing
Washington, DC's brewing milestones are a testament to its burgeoning craft beer industry. The establishments below have played significant roles in this renaissance:
DC Brau: A trailblazer since 2009, it has set the precedent for local craft beer production in the modern era.
The Heurich Brewery Closure (1956): Its shutdown, leading to a brewery-free period, until the rise of craft breweries.
The region has truly beefed up its brewing credentials, establishing an array of breweries that offer unique ales and lagers throughout the city and its suburbs. Washington, DC's beer guides and tours further illustrate the local affinity for craft beer, combining historical insight with tasting experiences.
Top Breweries in Washington, DC
Washington, DC isn't just the nation's capital; it's also a burgeoning hub for craft beer enthusiasts. This section takes a look at some of the standout breweries that have established themselves as key players in the local beer scene.
DC Brau Brewing Co
DC Brau, founded in 2009, has the distinction of being the first packaging brewery inside the District since 1956. Known for bold flavors and brewing both year-round and seasonal offerings, DC Brau is a stalwart in the DC craft beer community. Their trademark brews include The Public Ale, a classic English-style pale ale, and On the Wings of Armageddon, a potent imperial IPA.
Atlas Brew Works
Atlas Brew Works offers a wide range of craft beers with a focus on environmental sustainability. This solar-powered brewery creates beers that speak to traditional styles while adding a modern twist. Patrons often enjoy the Rowdy, a hop-forward rye beer, and the smooth District Common, which pays homage to pre-Prohibition lagers.
Red Bear Brewing Co
Red Bear Brewing Co is a newcomer known for its inclusive community space and engaging events. They deliver a diverse lineup of brews with playful names and flavorful profiles. The Red Bear team excels in producing everything from approachable ales to experimental sours, ensuring that there's a beer for every palate.
Right Proper Brewing Co
Lastly, Right Proper Brewing Company has established itself with a focus on yeasty and farmhouse-style ales. Their Shaw brewpub showcases an array of signature sours and saisons that are as unique as the establishment itself. Beer enthusiasts often rave about Raised By Wolves, a fruity and hoppy pale ale, and the rustic Ornithology, a complex grissette.
Distinct Local Beer Styles
Washington, DC's craft beer scene offers a diverse range of beer styles, with local breweries putting their unique spin on classic formulas. These styles include hop-heavy IPAs and Pale Ales, crisp and refreshing Lagers and Pilsners, and complex and diverse Sours and Cask Ales.
IPAs and Pale Ales
The capital region shows a strong affinity for India Pale Ales (IPAs) and Pale Ales, with many brewers showcasing innovative variations. The Corruption stands as one of the notable local IPAs, revered for its bold use of hops and balanced flavor profile. Similarly, enthusiasts often seek out Joint Resolution, a hazy IPA appreciated for its aromatic hops and juicy finish.
Lagers and Pilsners
Lagers and Pilsners provide a cleaner, often more approachable profile, with DC’s brewers producing exemplary versions. One can't overlook Brau Pils, a sterling example of the pilsner style that's been fine-tuned by the city’s veteran brewers. It embodies the classic characteristics of pilsners with a crisp taste and a refreshing finish.
Sours and Cask Ales
The craft scene in DC doesn't shy away from the more complex and often tart flavors of Sours and the traditional British serving method of Cask Ales. These beer styles exhibit a wide range of flavors, from the puckeringly sour to the earthy and subtle. Sours in particular have seen a surge in popularity, with local producers experimenting with fermentation techniques and flavor infusions that range from citrus to woodland berry.
Best Beer Bars and Taprooms
Washington, DC boasts an eclectic array of beer bars and taprooms, offering connoisseurs a diverse selection from local brews to international ales. Here, aficionados can explore the depth of craft beer within unique atmospheres that cater to an elevated drinking experience.
Churchkey
Location: Logan Circle
Highlights:
Extensive beer list with over 500 varieties
Focus on rare, unique, and hard-to-find brews
At Churchkey, patrons are invited to savor an unmatched selection of craft beers, which includes a rotation of draft options and an impressive collection of bottled beers. A leader in the DC beer scene, they place special emphasis on curating a mix of local and international ales that are both sophisticated and distinctive.
The Sovereign
Location: Georgetown
Highlights:
Belgian-inspired bar with emphasis on traditional brewing styles
50 draft lines and over 300 bottled options
The Sovereign prides itself on being a bastion of Belgian beer culture in DC. They offer an expansive array of Belgian drafts and bottles, including both classic and modern interpretations. Visitors appreciate the bar's commitment to the authentic flavors and artisanal craftsmanship emblematic of Belgium's brewing legacy.
Roofers Union
Location: Adams Morgan
Highlights:
Variety of local and regional craft beers
Vibrant atmosphere with rooftop seating
Roofers Union in Adams Morgan provides a laid-back setting paired with an impressive list of craft beers focusing on local and regional breweries. The bar's rooftop seating offers a casual environment to enjoy a well-curated selection of drafts and bottled beers while taking in the city's urban vibe.
Popular Beer and Food Pairings
Exploring the synergy between craft beers and food enhances the dining experience. Each style of beer can complement or contrast flavors in various dishes, offering a multitude of pairing possibilities.
Pairing with IPA
IPAs, with their bold hops and varying degrees of bitterness, pair exceptionally well with spicy foods. For instance:
Hellbender Brewing Company's Panda Strike Force IPA: A brew with pronounced El Dorado, Amarillo, and Aurora hop flavors, complements spicy Asian or Latin dishes, which can handle the IPA's robust character.
Pairing with Lagers
Lagers are often more subtle in flavor, which makes them versatile for pairing with a diverse range of foods:
Light Lagers: Ideal with light seafood or chicken. Their crispness cuts through any light, creamy sauces.
Amber Lagers: Rich enough to stand alongside grilled meats and barbecue, a perfect match for summer restaurant patios.
Craft Beer for Vegetarians
Craft beers offer a variety of flavors that can be paired with vegetarian dishes (What wine goes well with vegetarian dishes?), embracing the diversity in both craft brewing and modern vegetarian cuisine:
Barrel-aged sours: Introduce an interesting counterpart to the richness of cheeses and cream-based dishes, as suggested by DC Beer pairing barrel-aged sour with a scone and Devonshire cream.
Fruity wheat ales or saisons: Complement salads and light vegetable entrees, acting as a refreshing palate cleanser in between bites.
DC's Beer Culture and Festivals
Washington, DC’s craft beer scene is a vibrant tapestry woven with annual festivals, unique tasting events, and educational brewery tours. Beer enthusiasts are drawn to the city for its dynamic blend of traditional brews and innovative concoctions.
Annual Beer Festivals
National Shamrock Fest marks a high point in March, transforming the RFK Stadium into an Irish beer haven. Visitors can immerse themselves in Irish culture, complemented by a plethora of Irish beer, live music, and carnival entertainment. The DC Beer Festival at Nationals Park is another not-to-be-missed event, where attendees sample beer as they enjoy views of the baseball field.
Beer Tasting Events
For a casual beer exploration, the city's beer gardens offer a laid-back atmosphere with a selection of local and international brews. Meanwhile, City-State Brewing provides a unique tasting room experience, showcasing a variety of local flavors that demonstrate the city's creativity in beer crafting. Patrons not only savor the brews but also engage with the narratives behind them.
Educational Brewery Tours
Those interested in the brewing process can embark on brewery tours. Hellbender Brewing Company is a popular stop, with its VIP area often featuring exclusive tastings of their latest creation. These tours often illuminate the meticulous craft behind each bottle, from sourcing ingredients to the nuances of aging beer in barrels. Washington DC prides itself on these informative experiences that deepen one's appreciation for craft beer.
Retailers and Take-Home Options
In Washington, DC, craft beer enthusiasts have ample opportunities to purchase their favorite local beverages. From dedicated bottle shops to the convenience of curbside pickup and delivery services, customers have a variety of options for enjoying craft beer at home.
Bottle Shops
Craft Beer Cellar DC is a standout destination for craft beer lovers. Offering a diverse selection of cans and bottles, they're known for their knowledgeable staff and extensive inventory. Patrons can explore a wide range of local and international beers in various formats, including limited releases and classic favorites.
Curbside Pickup and Delivery
Several breweries and vendors have adapted their policy to offer curbside pickup and delivery to accommodate the needs of their customers. Denizens Brewing Co. operates a "beermobile" that delivers fresh beer, wine, and cocktails to its Maryland neighbors. They provide options like the Animal Hazy IPA and Born Bohemian in cans. Furthermore, Red Bear Brewing Company, with its unique offerings, has made its products available for pickup, ensuring beer aficionados don't miss out on their innovative brews.
Innovation and Sustainability in Brewing
This section explores how Washington, DC's craft breweries are embracing environmental responsibility while enhancing their brewing processes with advanced technologies.
Sustainable Brewing Practices
The craft breweries in Washington, DC, are forging a path of eco-conscious beer production. DC Brau Brewing Company, a trailblazer in the local industry, not only initiated the District’s modern brewing wave but did so with an eye on sustainability. They are known for efficient water usage and minimizing waste, ensuring that sustainability is not just an add-on, but a core component of their operational philosophy.
Hellbender Brewing Company makes a commendable effort in this area as well, utilising a Belgian-made system that reduces water and grain waste. Right Proper Brewing, meanwhile, has turned to the sun, investing in rooftop solar panels to power their operations, emphasizing their dedication to renewable energy.
Denizens Brewing Co. has established itself with similar values, with a keen focus on local sourcing, reducing their ecological footprint, and contributing to a more sustainable local economy.
Emerging Beer Technologies
3 Stars Brewing is among the DC breweries exploring innovative techniques to craft beer that resonates with modern consumers. They leverage advanced brewing equipment and software to enhance the precision and efficiency of their production. This includes monitoring systems that can regulate and optimize each stage of the brewing process, from fermentation to temperature control, ensuring consistency and quality in every batch.
The breweries have shown how embracing technology goes hand-in-hand with sustainable practices. For example, the integration of energy-saving systems and waste reduction methods illustrates the dual benefits of these advancements: improving both environmental sustainability and the bottom line.
This combination of innovation and sustainability illustrates the commitment of Washington, DC’s craft breweries to create a thriving, forward-thinking beer scene that respects the planet and its resources.
Navigating the DC Craft Beer Scene
As Washington DC's craft beer landscape flourishes, enthusiasts can revel in a selection of local brews that capture the essence of the Capital's creativity and diversity. Expert guides and a strategic approach to the city's neighborhoods are essential to experience the best of DC's brews.
Local Expert Recommendations
Local expert beer guides can provide an invaluable resource for navigating the craft beer scene in DC. They have in-depth knowledge of the latest and greatest on tap and can often grant visitors access to hidden gems and exclusive tastings. Whether one desires a frosty IPA or a tangy sour ale, these connoisseurs point the way to top-notch brews tailored to individual preferences.
Silver Spring and Riverdale Park: Renowned for their vibrant brewery culture that welcomes beer aficionados with a range of innovative and traditional styles. It's advisable to start one's journey here with the guidance of a local expert.
NoMa Neighborhood: A must-visit spot for craft beer lovers, NoMa's taprooms and brewpubs highlight an eclectic beverage scene.
Navigating DC Neighborhoods
Understanding the layout and particular offerings of DC neighborhoods enhances the experience of discovering new favorite brews.
District-Wide Diversity: Nearly every neighborhood boasts a unique brewery or taproom, so a curated list of stops aids in making the most efficient use of time.
Geographical Approach: Plan tours geographically to cover multiple breweries in one area; for example, a day in NoMa can include several of the highly-rated brewpubs within walking distance of one another.
When moving from neighborhood to neighborhood, public transportation or ride-sharing services can offer a convenient and safe way to enjoy the full breadth of DC's craft beer scene. With a strategic approach and insights from experts, aficionados and newcomers alike can uncover the rich tapestry of ales and lagers that DC has to offer.
