Augusta, GA Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Ultimate Brewery Tour
Augusta, Georgia, has crafted a name for itself in the regional craft beer scene, becoming a hub for beer aficionados seeking distinctive local flavors and quality brews. The city embraces its brewing culture with a selection of establishments that highlight the art of craft beer. Two prominent breweries, Savannah River Brewing Co. and River Watch Brewery, have laid the foundation for this burgeoning beer landscape, offering a variety of hand-crafted lagers and ales that cater to diverse palates.
Local establishments aren't shy about showcasing these homegrown beers, with many restaurants and grocery stores promoting and selling products from Augusta's own breweries. This enthusiasm for local craft beer is indicative of Augusta's community spirit and commitment to supporting local businesses. As visitors explore the city, they're encouraged to inquire about these local brews or to visit the breweries and experience the passion and craftsmanship first-hand.
With its growing reputation for quality and innovation, Augusta's craft beer scene presents a flavorful journey through the city's unique brewing traditions. From the carefully selected ingredients to the meticulous brewing process, each sip offers not just a taste but a reflection of Augusta's character. Whether drawn to a robust ale or a refreshing lager, beer enthusiasts will find that Augusta's craft beers are an integral part of the city's cultural fabric.
History of Craft Beer in Augusta
The Augusta craft beer scene has a storied past, with roots stretching back to the 19th century. Historical accounts note that the Augusta Brewing Company, established in 1889, was a prominent organization in the city's beer industry. This detail highlights Augusta's early adoption of brewing, though it wasn't the first brewery to serve the local populace.
Interestingly, advertisements from 1853 suggest that local breweries like the Augusta Brewery were operational, distributing their beer in kegs long before the Augusta Brewing Company came into being. Such snippets of history showcase the long-standing tradition of beer craftsmanship in this Georgian town.
The modern era has seen a resurgence in this craft, with facilities like Tapped33 Craft Brewery innovating the local beer landscape. This particular brewery holds the distinction of being founded by Augusta's first Black brewer. It stands as a testament to the evolving and inclusive nature of the Augusta beer scene.
Georgia, particularly Augusta, is noted for its proximity to the Savannah River, which has historically served as a vital channel for trade and commerce. The availability of quality water from the Savannah may have played a role in the development of local craft breweries, echoing the importance of natural resources in the shaping of regional beer identities.
Local events such as the Augusta Beerfest further illustrate the city's love for craft beers, gathering a multitude of breweries to celebrate and share their unique brews with the community.
Year Event
1853 Early mentions of the Augusta Brewery distributing kegs
1889 Establishment of Augusta Brewing Company
2023 Augusta Beerfest showcases over 100 beers
With places like Savannah, Augusta continues to be known for quality brews, including lagers and ales, served in state-of-the-art taprooms that attract both locals and visitors. Georgia's craft beer heritage is alive and thriving in the heart of Augusta.
The Craft Beer Brewing Process
Craft beer production is an intricate blend of art and science, requiring precision and creativity. At its core, the process involves malting, mashing, boiling, fermenting, conditioning, and packaging.
Malting: This initial step transforms raw grains into malt, providing a fermentable sugar source vital for beer. Grains, typically barley, are soaked, germinated, and then dried.
Mashing: During mashing, malt is mixed with water and heated, activating enzymes that convert starches into sugars. This sweet liquid, known as wort, is the foundation for the beer.
Boiling: The wort is boiled and hops are added. Hops, the flowers from the hop plant, impart bitterness, flavor, and aroma. This is crucial for beers like India Pale Ale (IPA), where a prominent hop character is desired.
Fermenting: Post-boiling, the wort is cooled and yeast is introduced. Yeast consumes the sugars, producing alcohol and carbon dioxide. This is where the distinction between ales and lagers becomes significant. Ales use top-fermenting yeast at warmer temperatures, while lagers rely on bottom-fermenting yeast in cooler environments.
Conditioning: After fermentation, the beer is conditioned to develop flavors. It can be a quick process for some ales or take months for lagers.
Packaging: Finally, the beer is carbonated and packaged into bottles, cans, or kegs. Hand-crafted and small-batch craft beers from local breweries often highlight unique flavors and brewing techniques, distinguishing them from mass-produced varieties.
Each step draws from centuries-old traditions, adapted and innovated by craft brewers in Augusta, GA, and beyond to create a diverse array of distinctive and flavorful beers.
Guide to Augusta Breweries
Augusta, Georgia boasts an impressive craft beer scene with stand-out breweries like Savannah River Brewing Co and River Watch Brewery. The downtown area complements these establishments with its own vibrant taproom culture.
Savannah River Brewing Co
Location: Downtown Augusta
Specialties: Lagers, Ales, Hand-crafted Beers
Savannah River Brewing Co grabbed attention by securing the title of best brewery of the year. Opened in 2017, they have quickly established themselves with a 30-barrel brew house that promises the freshest, highest quality beers in Augusta. Their state-of-the-art taproom has become a popular gathering spot for both friends and beer enthusiasts.
River Watch Brewery
Location: Near Downtown Augusta
Offerings: A selection of craft beers including local favorites
River Watch Brewery adds to the local flair with its family-operated facility, endorsing the city’s penchant for community and quality. With a roster of craft beers that celebrate local ingredients, this brewery has carved out its own niche in Augusta's growing beer community.
Downtown Augusta's Craft Beer Scene
Highlights: Tap Rooms and variety
Experience: Casual and welcoming atmosphere
The craft beer experience in downtown Augusta extends beyond just breweries; the existence of multiple tap rooms, like Arsenal Tap Room & Kitchen and Draft Society, is a testament to the region's growing appreciation for fine beer. These locales offer laid-back environments that are perfect for tasting a wide range of beers from both local and national breweries. The focus is on atmosphere as much as it is on the quality and selection of the beverages served.
Craft Beer Tasting and Reviews
When exploring the craft beer scene in Augusta, GA, beer enthusiasts have a variety of options to satisfy their palate.
Savannah River Brewing Co. has an excellent reputation, standing out with its craft beer selection. Guests often praise its diverse range of flavors and consistent quality. Those who visit can anticipate a welcoming atmosphere and the opportunity to taste various beer styles. The reviews reflect a high level of satisfaction from visitors, with both Google and Yelp ratings above 4.5 stars.
Riverwatch Brewery offers a unique experience located in a converted warehouse space, known for its small-batch production and a focus on quality. The familial touch in the staffing adds to its charm, and the establishment receives high marks for ambiance and the taste of its beers.
Craft beer aficionados also frequent Broad St for its vibrant variety of venues serving local brews. The area is known for its dedication to showcasing a rotating selection of the best local and regional beers.
In Evans, visitors will find a quieter but equally enthusiastic craft beer scene. Establishments in Evans take pride in a more curated beer tasting experience, catering to those who prefer a less crowded environment.
Below is a snapshot of visitor reviews for leading craft beer spots:
Establishment Google Rating Yelp Rating
Savannah River Brewing 4.8 stars 4.5 stars
Riverwatch Brewery 4.7 stars 4.5 stars
Venue in Broad St - -
Venue in Evans - -
For those seeking more information before visiting, individual reviews and additional details are readily available on platforms like Yelp. Enthusiasts can rely on these reviews for a glimpse into the quality and atmosphere of these local breweries.
Events and Community Engagement
Augusta, Georgia's thriving craft beer scene is infused with a variety of events that foster community engagement and celebrate local brews. Throughout the year, beer enthusiasts can mark their calendars for standout festivals.
Augusta Beerfest, typically held in August at the James Brown Arena, has been a recurring favorite. This event showcases over 100 beers from breweries, both local and national. Patrons can expect an afternoon filled with live music and the unique opportunity to sample a wide array of craft beers.
The Augusta Craft Beer Festival at SRP Park takes place in April. It’s not only the largest outdoor beer festival in the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA) but also a day of entertainment. More than 30 breweries present over 100 craft beer selections to visitors. Festivities include:
Live Music: Setting the ambiance, various musical acts perform.
Themed Trivia: Beer lovers can test their knowledge.
Food and Games: Elevating the experience.
Adding to the social tapestry, taprooms in Augusta often host events that go beyond beer tasting. Stay.Social Tap & Table and similar venues might curate evenings woven with art displays or Facebook-fueled gatherings, accentuating the social aspect of the craft beer culture.
Breweries also contribute to the city's cultural scene, often integrating community-centered attractions such as art exhibitions, making them a magnet for both locals and tourists.
By encouraging interaction and celebration around craft beer, Augusta's events are significant in uniting the community over shared interests, emphasizing the city's commitment to dynamic social and cultural landscapes.
Dining and Craft Beer Pairing
When considering the pairing of craft beer with food, the emphasis is on enhancing the flavors of both. Specific combinations can bring out the subtle tastes in each.
Craft Beer and Food
They recognize the art of pairing craft beer with food to accentuate the taste experience. The diversity of craft beers available in Augusta offers a wide range for pairing:
Pizza: An IPA with its hoppy bitterness contrasts well with the richness of cheese and the sweetness of tomato sauce.
Burgers: A robust stout or porter complements the hearty flavors of a grilled burger, especially ones with bold toppings.
Fries: A crisp pilsner or lager cuts through the saltiness and fat of fries, providing a refreshing balance.
The skill lies in matching the intensity of the beer with the food, ensuring that neither overwhelzes the palate.
Twin Peaks Augusta
At Twin Peaks in Augusta, they curate the experience of beer and food pairing:
Food: Their menu includes a range of options from classic pub fare to more refined choices, each with suggested beer pairings.
Beer: They boast a selection of local craft beers that are chosen to complement the menu, ensuring a harmonious dining experience.
The staff is confidently knowledgeable and can guide patrons through the pairing process, ensuring that the flavors of both the food and beer are showcased to their utmost potential.
Brewery Experiences and Amenities
Visitors to Augusta's breweries can expect a variety of amenities designed to enhance their experience, including establishments that welcome dogs and refreshing outdoor patios ideal for socializing and enjoying craft beers.
Dog-Friendly Establishments
Many breweries in Augusta, GA take pride in offering a welcoming atmosphere for beer enthusiasts and their canine companions. Establishments with dog-friendly policies often feature clean, designated areas where dogs can relax by their owner's side. These breweries understand the importance of creating a social and inclusive environment, where guests can savor hand-crafted brews without having to leave their pets at home.
Breweries with Outdoor Patios
Breweries that boast outdoor patios provide guests with the opportunity to enjoy the pleasant Augusta weather while indulging in a diverse range of ales and lagers. These patios are kept clean and often feature comfortable seating arrangements, fostering a welcoming space for friends and family to gather. Select breweries may also enhance the patio experience with games and live entertainment, designed to perfectly complement the laid-back brewery atmosphere.
Craft Beer Retail and Takeaway Options
In Augusta, GA, aficionados of craft beer can find a plethora of retail spots that proffer an impressive array of local and regional craft brews. Beverage Outlet stands out for its broad selection, catering to those who enjoy exploring diverse flavors and styles. From hoppy IPAs to robust stouts, customers can find bottles and cans to suit any palate.
For enthusiasts who prefer their beer straight from the tap, establishments such as Arsenal Taproom + Kitchen offer not just a cozy ambiance but also the convenience of growlers. These resealable containers allow patrons to take home their favorite draft beers. Specialty drinks like kombucha are also gaining popularity, and many shops have introduced this fermented tea to their lineup, giving customers a non-alcoholic option rich in probiotics.
The self-serve model is an inviting option for those seeking a more hands-on experience in selecting their craft beers. It enables patrons to sample several brews, helping them decide which ones to enjoy in larger quantities.
Below is a brief overview of notable spots for craft beer retail and takeaway:
Beverage Outlet: A wide selection of craft beer available for takeaway.
Arsenal Taproom + Kitchen: Known for their quality craft beer and growler service.
Toast Wine & Beverage: Praised for its collection of craft beers and convenient location.
Belair Package Shop: Offers a variety of craft beers and often includes new and limited releases.
These retailers help ensure that whether customers are looking for a unique beer to savor at home or seeking to fill a growler with a fresh draft choice, their needs are well met in Augusta's thriving craft beer landscape.
Alternative Craft Beverages
Aside from craft beer, Augusta, GA, offers a rich selection of alternative craft beverages that cater to diverse palates. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the local wineries that dot the region, producing a range of varietals from robust reds to crisp whites. They often extend tastings and tours, providing an intimate glimpse into the art of winemaking.
Kombucha, a fermented tea packed with probiotics, has also found its foothold in the city’s craft beverage scene. Local kombucha breweries offer a variety of flavored options, from classic ginger to innovative fruit infusions. It's an excellent non-alcoholic choice for health-conscious consumers.
Below is a brief overview of options for patrons interested in exploring beverages beyond beer:
Beverage Type Description Local Options Wine Vineyards and boutique wineries offer tastings. Augusta Winery, Vineyard Estate Kombucha Fermented, probiotic-rich tea available in various flavors. Kombucha Kompany, Augusta Booch
These establishments provide a refreshing alternative to the hoppy offerings of local breweries. For those seeking a different kind of craftsmanship, Augusta's winemakers and kombucha fermenters present a unique experience. They place an emphasis on quality ingredients and traditional processes, inviting both residents and visitors to explore the subtleties of their craft.
