Sandy Springs, GA Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Ultimate Brewery Tour
Sandy Springs, Georgia, presents a vibrant craft beer scene that caters to diverse palates and preferences. Craft beer enthusiasts find this Northern Atlanta suburb to be a treasure trove of local breweries and bars, each with unique offerings that range from traditional ales to innovative and experimental brews. The city's breweries boast a community-centric approach, often featuring taprooms where locals and visitors alike can savor the latest creations and classic favorites.
With an array of venues from bustling gastropubs to cozy taprooms, Sandy Springs has become a destination for those seeking quality craft beers. These establishments highlight the creativity and skill of local brewers, and many venues also offer engaging experiences such as brewery tours, tasting events, and meet-the-brewer sessions. The focus on local ingredients and the art of brewing ensures that each glass tells a story of Sandy Springs' dedication to craft beer culture.
History of Sandy Springs Craft Beer Scene
Sandy Springs, Georgia, has seen a notable rise in its local craft beer scene over the years. While the area's history with craft beer is relatively recent, it reflects a broader trend of growth and enthusiasm for local breweries in the state.
Early Beginnings The craft beer movement in Sandy Springs began to take shape alongside the city's development. With Sandy Springs' incorporation in 2005, the area situated in North Fulton County began carving out its unique identity.
Pontoon Brewing Company A significant player in the Sandy Springs craft beer scene is Pontoon Brewing Company. These trailblazers established themselves with a commitment to creating approachable, relaxed craft brews. Their presence has been a substantial part of the local craft beer dialogue, proving that Sandy Springs has the palate and demand for locally brewed beer.
Locations:
Sandy Springs Taproom: 8601 Dunwoody Place
New Tucker Location: 4720 Stone Drive
Community Embrace Residents of Sandy Springs quickly embraced this movement, which aligns seamlessly with the city's culture of innovation and community. The local breweries not only offer a diverse range of beer styles but also serve as gathering places that foster social connection.
The growth of the craft beer scene in Sandy Springs signifies an appreciation for both the brewing craft and the vibrant social backdrop these breweries provide. With establishments like Pontoon Brewing leading the charge, Sandy Springs continues to be an inviting destination for craft beer enthusiasts.
Guide to Sandy Springs Breweries
Sandy Springs, GA, offers a vibrant craft beer scene, with local breweries showcasing unique flavors and inviting atmospheres. Visitors and locals alike can experience the distinctive craft brews and community events each brewery provides.
Pontoon Brewing
Location: Sandy Springs, GA
Highlights:
Vibe: Pontoon Brewing is known for its laid-back and fun-loving environment perfect for friends and families.
Craft Beer Selection: A variety of innovative craft beers, often including bold IPAs and unique seasonal offerings.
Taproom: The taproom offers a welcoming spot to try their diverse lineup, with positive reviews for both their drinks and the overall experience.
Events: They regularly host events, making it a dynamic spot to visit.
Mutation Brewing Company
Location: Sandy Springs, GA
Highlights:
Vibe: Mutation Brewing Company offers a more intimate setting with a focus on the art of craft beer.
Craft Beer Selection: They are noted for their creative and quality brews, offering a range of styles with a particular acclaim for their IPAs.
Food: Though the emphasis is on the beer, patrons can often find food options to complement their drinks.
Reviews: Visitors commend Mutation Brewing for both the quality of the beer and the knowledgeable staff.
Popular Craft Beers in Sandy Springs
Sandy Springs, GA, is home to a dynamic craft beer scene with a strong focus on various styles, including IPAs and specialty limited-run beers.
IPA and Double IPA
In Sandy Springs, the IPA category stands out as a favorite, with Pontoon Brewing and Variant Brewing offering robust options. These breweries craft several IPAs with a range of hop profiles and ABVs to suit different palates.
Pontoon Brewing: Known for their innovative and flavorful IPAs.
Variant Brewing: Their IPAs are highly sought-after for unique takes on the style.
Seasonal and Limited Editions
The craft beer community in Sandy Springs eagerly awaits the seasonal and limited edition releases. Breweries like Mutation Brewing Company and Pontoon Brewing often feature special beers that are available for a short time or in limited quantities.
Mutation Brewing Company: They have garnered attention for their inventive seasonals.
Pontoon Brewing: Offers a rotating selection of limited edition beers that frequently showcase local ingredients and experimental brewing techniques.
Craft Beer Tasting and Tours
In Sandy Springs, GA, beer enthusiasts have the opportunity to embark on a journey through local craft beer culture. Tours and tastings offer people a chance to explore a variety of unique flavors and styles brewed with dedication by local artisans.
One must-visit spot is Pontoon Brewing, which prides itself as Sandy Springs’ first microbrewery. They offer a casual and friendly taproom environment where friends can gather and enjoy a range of craft beers. As of early 2018, Pontoon Brewing has been a local favorite, crafting beers inspired by leisurely days on the water.
Battle & Brew presents another destination for craft beer aficionados, with a twist of gaming that invites visitors to indulge in a wide selection of beers while enjoying video games and themed events.
Mutuation Brewing Company
Noteworthy for their innovative craft beers.
Tours may be available upon request.
For those interested in crafting their own beverages, Beer & Wine Craft provides an educational experience. They not only supply materials for home brewing but also offer classes on making beer, wine, mead, and cider.
Touring Hours for Notable Locations:
Location Monday - Tuesday Wednesday - Friday Saturday - Sunday Pontoon Brewing Closed 4 PM - 10 PM 12 PM - 12 AM Battle & Brew 5 PM - 12 AM 5 PM - 2 AM 12 PM - 2 AM Beer & Wine Craft 11 AM - 6 PM 11 AM - 6 PM 12 PM - 4 PM
Visitors looking for a tailor-made craft beer journey can check out Beer From Here Brew Tours. Offering curated tours across town, they provide information on local beer news, events, and the breweries to visit for a comprehensive and delightful tasting experience.
Events and Live Music
Sandy Springs, Georgia, offers a vibrant scene for beer enthusiasts looking to enjoy local craft beer coupled with live entertainment. Throughout the year, beer-related events featuring live music are prominent in the community's social calendar.
Heritage Amphitheatre is a notable venue that hosts Still Swinging, an event combining free concerts with the option to reserve a table. Guests should note that lawn seating is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Concerts typically commence in the evening with gates opening at 5:00 PM and music starting at approximately 7:00 PM.
Event Name Venue Features Dates/Times
Still Swinging Heritage Amphitheatre Free concerts, Table reservations available September 10th, 7 PM
Craft beer bars such as The Chapter Room and Battle & Brew regularly offer an engaging environment where patrons savor craft beers alongside live music, ensuring a memorable experience for locals and visitors alike.
For those desiring a more festival-like atmosphere, City Green hosts events where patrons can indulge in an array of food and drink tastings, live music, and chef demonstrations. An example is an event that takes place in early June, offering both VIP and general admission, with times ranging from 6 PM for VIP ticket holders to general access at 7 PM.
Craft breweries in the area, like Pontoon Brewing, not only focus on innovative beer crafting but also integrate live music into their offerings. Customers can expect a dynamic atmosphere where local musicians enhance the craft beer experience.
These venues and events encapsulate the robust relationship between Sandy Springs' local craft beer scene and its rich tapestry of live music, providing an enjoyable and diverse social experience.
Pairing Food with Craft Beer
When venturing into the landscape of craft beers in Sandy Springs, GA, enthusiasts discover a rewarding experience in pairing local brews with various foods. The intricate dance between the flavors of food and the profiles of craft beers elevates dining to new heights.
Hoppy and Bitter Beers: These brews, such as IPAs, are excellent when paired with boldly flavored foods. The bitterness can cut through the richness of dishes like grilled steaks or spicy foods, balancing the palate.
Fruity and Spicy Ales: Beers with notes of fruit and spice complement dishes that share similar flavor profiles. For instance, a Belgian-style ale pairs well with roasted chicken (What wine goes well with roasted chicken?) or dishes seasoned with thyme and sage.
Sour, Tart, and Funky: Sour beers offer a refreshing contrast to foods with a strong umami flavor. They also pair nicely with fattier foods, as the tartness can cut through the richness. Examples include pairing a Gose with smoked sausage or earthy cheeses.
Beer Type Food Pairing Examples
Blonde Ale/Cream Ale Asian dishes, chili, mango or jalapeño salsa
Hoppy IPA Grilled meats, spicy dishes (What wine goes well with spicy dishes?), robust cheeses
Belgian-Style Ale Roast chicken, herbed potatoes, sage-infused dishes
Sour Beers Smoked sausages, fatty cheeses, charcuterie
When selecting a beer for pairing, consider the intensity and flavor profile of the dish. The aim is to either complement or contrast the flavors to achieve a harmonious dining experience. By exploring the rich array of crafted beers in Sandy Springs, one can create memorable food and beer pairings that delight the senses.
Gaming and Social Activities
Sandy Springs offers an engaging beer scene intertwined with gaming and socializing venues. Battle & Brew boasts an impressive title as Atlanta's pioneer game bar, where visitors can indulge in both digital entertainment and a refined selection of craft beers. Its status as a hub for social gatherings is anchored by the extensive choice of video and PC games, providing a dynamic backdrop for beer aficionados and gamers alike.
The Springs Cinema & Taphouse presents another facet to the city's social scene. While primarily a cinema, it extends its offering with a taphouse element where guests can enjoy hand-picked craft beers. This multi-dimensional venue combines visual and culinary delights for a comprehensive leisure experience.
For those who prefer a balance between outdoor ambiance and beer tasting, Pontoon Brewing and Mutation Brewing Company deliver on this front. Both breweries have carved a niche within the local community, offering live games and spaces that encourage social interaction amongst patrons.
The table below encapsulates the prime locations in Sandy Springs for craft beer enthusiasts looking to blend their love for games with social activities:
Venue Attractions Games Available
Battle & Brew Video game restaurant, craft beers, cocktails Video Games, PC Games
Springs Cinema & Taphouse Cinema viewings, craft beer selection None specified
Pontoon Brewing Live games, outdoor space Live Games
Mutation Brewing Company Social brew space None specified
These establishments have skillfully integrated games into their cultural fabric, attaining a unique charm that resonates with both Sandy Springs residents and visitors.
Craft Beer Reviews and Recommendations
Sandy Springs offers a diverse beer scene, with local breweries taking pride in their unique craft offerings. Patrons hold Mutation Brewing Company in high regard, frequently citing their innovatively flavored beers and welcoming atmosphere. Nearby, Pontoon Brewing garners positive feedback for its laid-back vibe and an array of bold tastes that appeal to a broad audience.
Variant Brewing stands out with a reputation for consistently excellent beers; reviews often highlight the creativity and quality of their rotating selection. Furthermore, Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant - Dunwoody finds favor among those who appreciate not only beer craftsmanship but also a good meal to pair with their pint.
Beer enthusiasts also recommend Gate City Brewing Company, where the marriage of a friendly environment and a strong selection of beers makes it a formidable presence in Sandy Springs' craft beer landscape. Schoolhouse Brewing earns accolades for their educational approach to beer making, demystifying the brewing process while serving up enjoyable brews.
The following table outlines frequently mentioned establishments along with prominent characteristics noted in customer reviews:
Brewery or Bar Notable Qualities
Mutation Brewing Company Innovative flavors
Pontoon Brewing Bold, diverse selection
Variant Brewing Creative rotating brews
Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant - Dunwoody Coupled with a culinary experience
Gate City Brewing Company Friendly and diverse beer selection
Schoolhouse Brewing Educational and enjoyable experience
These breweries not only provide a taste of local flair but exemplify the Sandy Springs community's dedication to quality and variety in their craft beer offerings.
Sandy Springs Craft Beer at Local Bars
Sandy Springs, situated in the thriving Atlanta area, stands out with its vibrant bar scene. Locals and visitors alike flock to the bars to sample an array of craft beers from regional breweries.
The Select
The Select offers an elegant atmosphere where beer enthusiasts can indulge in a unique selection of craft beers. Known for its premium service, this upscale bar integrates a touch of sophistication with its beer offerings, giving patrons a tasteful experience.
Location: Sandy Springs, GA
Atmosphere: Upscale, Trendy
Beer Selection: Diverse, focuses on craft and local brews
Noteworthy: They often feature beer from Atlanta-area breweries
North River Tavern
For a more laid-back environment, North River Tavern is the sports bar destination for beer lovers. It combines the excitement of live sports with a hefty menu of craft beers, including those brewed within the Atlanta region.
Location: Sandy Springs, GA
Atmosphere: Relaxed, Sports-Oriented
Beer Selection: Extensive, with a regional focus
Specialties: Known for supporting local breweries and offering seasonal brews
Beyond Sandy Springs: Atlanta Area's Craft Beer Scene
Atlanta's craft beer scene is as vibrant and diverse as the city itself. The burgeoning brewery landscape offers an array of styles for both the casual drinker and the beer connoisseur.
SweetWater Brewing Company, a stalwart in Atlanta's craft beer scene, is known for its dynamic selection of beers and seltzers, all crafted at their facility on Ottley Drive. They've created an inviting atmosphere where even dogs are welcome, highlighting the community-centric nature of Atlanta's brewing culture.
Further invigorating the scene, Torched Hop Brewing operates as a brewpub with flexible hours and a location on Ponce de Leon Avenue. They cater to night owls and daytime visitors alike, providing a vibrant spot to enjoy a pint.
Another notable name is Pontoon Brewing, a company that has its roots in Sandy Springs but shares the spirit of Atlanta's craft beer passion. They're known for their relaxed and approachable craft brews, which have become a staple among local beer aficionados.
Here's a snapshot of Atlanta's brewery offerings:
Brewery Address Notable Attributes
SweetWater Brewing Co. 195 Ottley Dr NE, Atlanta, GA Dog-friendly, Varied beverage lineup
Torched Hop Brewing 249 Ponce de Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA Brewpub with flexible hours
Pontoon Brewing Sandy Springs Area Approachable craft brews, Community-driven
It's breweries like these that thread the fabric of the local craft beer community, each contributing flavors and experiences unique to Atlanta's ever-expanding beer landscape.
Specialty Brews and Cocktails
Sandy Springs, a vibrant community in the Atlanta metro area, offers a thriving scene for craft beer enthusiasts and cocktail aficionados. The area's specialty brews and cocktails are crafted with a distinct flair that mirrors the unique character of Sandy Springs.
Local Breweries:
For those seeking original craft beers, Sandy Springs does not disappoint. Key local breweries known for their specialty brews include:
Mutation Brewing Company
Pontoon Brewing
Porter Pizza & Brewery
Cocktail Bars:
Cocktail seekers will find satisfaction at various local bars offering bespoke mixes, such as:
Casi Cielo
The Select
Brewery Offerings:
Breweries present an assortment of on-tap pours alongside popular craft options. Often, patrons can find limited-edition specials that reflect seasonal ingredients or innovative brewing techniques.
Cocktail Specials: On the cocktail front, bars might rotate their specials to showcase premium spirits mixed with fresh, local ingredients, ensuring a unique drinking experience for every visit. Signature cocktails elevate the art of mixology, with each bar presenting its own twist on classics and avant-garde concoctions.
Specialty Brews Cocktail Specialties
Mutation Brewing Company Casi Cielo
Pontoon Brewing The Select
Porter Pizza & Brewery ---
Each location prides itself on providing a memorable experience through a varied menu and an atmosphere that encourages savoring each sip, whether it be of a finely crafted ale or a sophisticated cocktail.
The Legal Side of Craft Brewing
In Sandy Springs, GA, like in the rest of the state, craft breweries operate under specific state laws. Historically, Georgia law was restrictive for local breweries, allowing them to sell only up to 3,000 barrels of beer per year. This limit placed local brewers at a disadvantage in comparison to neighboring state laws, such as North Carolina, where breweries can sell, deliver, and ship up to 50,000 barrels annually.
The disparity in state laws has sparked movements for change among the craft beer community. Advocacy for modernizing beer laws to foster the craft beer industry led to the introduction of The F.O.A.M. Act in 2023. This Act aimed to pave the way for limited self-distribution for small brewers, a model proven to help breweries build their brand and serve local communities more effectively.
Previously, Georgia brewers faced additional sales constraints. They could not sell more than 288 oz. per individual per day for off-premises consumption. Industry advocates argued that this limit did not align with consumer demand and labeled it as arbitrary.
Recent legislative efforts reflect a growing recognition of the craft beer industry's potential for economic contribution and job creation. Any changes to existing legislation are monitored by stakeholders such as the Georgia Craft Brewers Guild, which remains a key player in shaping the future landscape for local brewers in Sandy Springs and across Georgia.
Future of Craft Beer in Sandy Springs
Sandy Springs has established itself as a nurturing ground for local craft beer, with Pontoon Brewing leading the scene since its opening in 2017. Recent years have seen positive legislative changes that signal a bright future for the area's craft beer industry. The ability for breweries to sell up to 3,000 barrels of beer directly from taprooms has instigated growth and innovation.
The craft beer scene in Sandy Springs is expected to evolve with the following trends:
Innovation in Beer Styles: Apt to follow national trends, local breweries may explore novel flavors and brewing techniques, adapting to consumer tastes and preferences.
Taproom Experience: Enhancing the taproom atmosphere to attract craft beer enthusiasts, offering an experience that pairs leisure with a taste of local culture.
Collaboration and Community: Breweries might further engage with the community through events and collaborations, strengthening their presence in Sandy Springs.
Focus on Quality: As competition increases, a strong emphasis on high-quality, small-batch brews will become more important.
Sustainability: Environmental consciousness could lead breweries to implement sustainable brewing practices, appealing to eco-friendly consumers.
With these trends in mind, the future of craft beer in Sandy Springs appears to be on an upward trajectory, catering to a diverse and growing audience seeking unique and locally-made products. The community's receptiveness to new beer styles and brewery experiences will be instrumental in shaping the craft beer culture.
