Des Moines, IA Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Insider's Path to the City's Best Brews
Des Moines, Iowa, has become a hub for craft beer enthusiasts, offering a bevy of local breweries that reflect the city's growing reputation as a destination for beer lovers. With a diverse selection ranging from hazy IPAs to robust stouts, the capital city invites residents and visitors alike to explore its unique breweries, each with their own distinctive flavors and atmospheres. These breweries often serve as community landmarks, providing a gathering place for friends, families, and connoisseurs to share their passion for well-crafted brews.
The local craft beer scene in Des Moines has seen significant growth, with many breweries featuring taprooms where patrons can sample the latest creations while enjoying the ambiance of spaces that often blend modern industrial design with rustic Iowa charm. Events like the Iowa Craft Beer Festival spotlight the creativity and community spirit of the region's brewers, while establishments such as 515 Brewing Company, with its close proximity to biking trails, and Twisted Vine Brewery, set in a historic building, offer unique experiences that are intrinsically linked to the city's character.
These breweries not only contribute to the local economy but also to the cultural fabric of Des Moines. They support live music and community gatherings, making the craft beer experience about more than just the beverage—it's about creating memorable moments and fostering a sense of local pride. Whether one is an avid beer aficionado or a casual drinker looking to delve into the world of ales and lagers, Des Moines offers an inviting and vibrant craft beer landscape.
History of Des Moines Craft Beer
Des Moines, Iowa, has observed substantial growth in its craft beer scene, reflecting both tradition and innovation. Initially a landscape populated sparingly with breweries, Des Moines has expanded to become a central hub for craft beer enthusiasts.
Early Beginnings: The roots of Des Moines' craft beer culture date back decades when few local breweries began setting the stage for a vibrant future scene. These pioneering establishments laid the foundation for a craft beer renaissance in the heart of Iowa.
The Growth Era: In recent years, the city has seen an impressive surge in craft breweries, each offering a unique take on beloved beer styles. The Exile Brewing Company, established in 2012, is housed in the historic F.W. Fitch Building and is noted for both its beer and its role in local beer history.
Modern Breweries: A compelling mix of breweries like Peace Tree Brewing has emerged, featuring a wide array of beers, including local favorites and innovative brews. Some notable modern establishments include:
Brewery Name Location Noteworthy Offerings
Peace Tree Brewing Des Moines Blond flights, red ales, ciders, and kombucha
Barn Town Brewing West Des Moines High-rating beers with a variety of food
515 Brewing Co. Clive Known for local community engagement
Each brewery contributes to the dynamic spirit of the city's beer culture, offering both standard and seasonal selections to satisfy a spectrum of palates.
Cultural Significance: These breweries not only provide an array of craft beers but also reflect Des Moines' rich heritage, celebrating the city's historical architecture and local flavor. This growth signifies more than just economic expansion; it represents a deepening appreciation for craft beer among locals and visitors alike. Des Moines' craft beer history is a testament to the city's ability to blend tradition with modern tastes.
The Brewing Process
The details of brewing craft beer are intricate, combining traditional methods with local flair, leading to the production of an array of flavors that are a testament to the creativity and skill of brewers in Des Moines, IA.
Ingredients and Technique
The cornerstone of any craft beer is its ingredients: water, malt, hops, and yeast. The expertise comes in balancing these elements for the desired taste. For example, Brightside Aleworks might adjust the hop varieties to produce a distinct flavor profile for their IPAs.
Brews Varieties
Des Moines' craft beer scene offers everything from lagers to stouts. Lagers are usually light and crisp, while IPAs can range from mildly to intensely hoppy. Unique local offerings include beers like 'Blonde Fatale' that capture a Midwestern twist on traditional styles.
Local Impact
Craft breweries like those found in the Des Moines area are more than beer producers; they're contributors to the local economy. The rise of brewery tours and taprooms supports regional growth and jobs.
Tasting and Tours
Local breweries often feature tours that showcase the brewing process and end with a tasting session. Visitors can experience the behind-the-scenes work and sample a variety of brews, getting a firsthand look at the craft.
Events and Community
Part of the charm of craft beer culture is the associated events: live music, trivia nights, and food truck collaborations. These occasions foster a sense of community, making the brewery a local hub.
Regulations and Growth
Growth in the craft beer industry is subject to Iowa's regulations, which have been adapting to support the burgeoning market. Compliance with these regulations ensures the responsible expansion of this sector.
Sustainability Practices
Many Des Moines breweries are embracing sustainable and eco-friendly practices. This trend is becoming part of their identity, mirroring the community's concern for the environment.
Craft Beer and Culinary Pairings
A final touch to the craft beer experience is a menu that complements the brews. Pairings can enhance both the beer and the food, with many establishments creating menus that highlight this interplay.
Top Des Moines Breweries
Des Moines, Iowa, is home to an impressive array of craft breweries, each offering distinct flavors and experiences. From the hop-forward ales of Confluence Brewing Co to the innovative creations at Lua Brewing, residents and visitors alike have access to a diverse craft beer scene.
Confluence Brewing Co
Location: Downtown Des Moines
Notable for: A diverse selection of beers, including the ever-popular Des Moines IPA. Confluence Brewing is a staple of the local beer scene, priding itself on quality and community involvement.
Exile Brewing Co
Location: Downtown Des Moines
Features: A fusion of traditional and innovation, Exile Brewing Co is known for beers like Ruthie and their popular Hannah Bavarian Wheat Beer, as well as a food menu that complements their brews.
Peace Tree Brewing Co
Location: East Village, Des Moines
Ambiance: Started in 2009 and expanded to Des Moines in 2016, Peace Tree Brewing Co offers a laid-back atmosphere and is renowned for their Blonde Fatale and other unique brews.
515 Brewing Co
Area: Clive
Highlights: This brewery is a local favorite for its small-batch, artisanal approach to beer-making. 515 Brewing Co has a reputation for its friendly taproom and an eclectic range of beers.
Lua Brewing
Situated in: West Des Moines
Specialty: Lua Brewing is noted for its modern, innovative take on traditional beer styles, brightening the local beer scene with their fresh approach and artful flavors.
Barn Town Brewing
Location: West Des Moines
Known for: Barn Town Brewing brings a piece of the countryside to the city with their playful and bold brews, providing a delightful experience with both their beer and food offerings.
Twisted Vine Brewery
Located: West Des Moines
Distinctive trait: Housed in a historic 150-year-old building, Twisted Vine Brewery offers a unique setting to enjoy their range of hand-crafted beers.
Reclaimed Rails Brewing Co
Area: Bondurant
Characteristics: Reclaimed Rails Brewing Co reflects the local heritage, creating beers that are as rich in flavor as the history embedded in their rail-themed taproom.
Kinship Brewing Company
Location: Waukee
Reputation: With a focus on community and quality, Kinship Brewing Company crafts beers that are meant to bring people together, using both innovative and time-honored brewing methods.
Flix Brewhouse
Found in: Merle Hay Mall, Des Moines
Unique aspect: Flix Brewhouse combines the love of craft beer with cinema, allowing patrons to enjoy their movie-going experience with a pint of in-house brewed beer.
Sampling the Scene
Des Moines’ craft beer scene thrives with various brewery tours, tastings, and events that celebrate the diversity of local brews. Patrons can enjoy special releases and seasonal offerings that showcase the creativity of local brewers.
Brewery Tours and Tastings
Brewery tours in Des Moines are a prime opportunity for aficionados and newcomers alike to explore the nuances of the city's craft beer. Des Moines Brew Tours organizes outings that take visitors between 3 to 4 local breweries. Participants can indulge in up to 16 samples of craft beers, enhancing the experience with a paired meal or snack provided during the tour. Each brewery offers a unique glimpse into their brewing process, complemented by a variety of tastings that often include a range from light ales to robust stouts.
Brewery Events
Des Moines breweries often feature events that cater to a vibrant community atmosphere. From live music to trivia nights, these gatherings create an inviting space for patrons to relish in the local craft beer culture. For example, the Iowa Craft Beer Festival is a notable event returning to action, situated at Water Works Park, offering attendees access to an extensive range of Iowa's craft beer selections, solidifying the city's status as a hub for beer enthusiasts.
Seasonal and Special Releases
Local breweries in Des Moines take pride in their seasonal and special release beers, which are often available for a limited time. These releases provide a unique taste of the changing seasons and the brewmasters' creativity. The standout brews might include seasonal ales designed to complement the time of year or one-off specialty batches that highlight unique ingredients or brewing methods. Patrons are encouraged to stay updated with brewery menus and announcements for the latest in special releases.
Brewery Destinations and Districts
Des Moines and its surrounding areas have a vibrant craft beer scene, each district offering unique experiences. The following subsections reveal specific destinations that beer enthusiasts will find worthwhile.
Downtown and East Village
In the heart of Des Moines, Downtown and the East Village present a variety of breweries with rich histories and inviting atmospheres. Peace Tree Brewing Co. in the East Village is notable for its origins that date back to 2009. It provides patrons a blend of innovative beers and a peek into the renaissance of the Market District.
Address for Peace Tree Brewing Co.: 317 E. Court Ave., Des Moines; Phone: 515-883-2739.
Court Avenue Brewing: A staple in the downtown area, this brewery is acclaimed for its specialty beers and a diverse menu ranging from steak to pizza.
West Des Moines Craft Hub
West Des Moines is growing as a craft beer hub, with Barn Town Brewing leading the way thanks to its exceptional beer offerings.
Barn Town Brewing Details:
Rating: Untappd: 3.99
Hours: 11 AM - 10 PM (Mon-Wed), 11 AM - 11 PM (Thu), 11 AM - 12 AM (Fri-Sat), 10 AM - 10 PM (Sun)
Food Availability: Yes
Address: Located in West Des Moines.
The Suburban Brewery Experience
Outside the bustling city center, suburbs like Clive and Ankeny offer a quieter but equally passionate brewery experience. Here, craft beer enthusiasts can find local favorites that boast community ties and intimate settings.
Suburban Breweries to Note:
515 Brewing Co.: Located in Clive, it is known for its close-knit community focus.
Ankeny Area: Also hosts local brewing spots, contributing to the region’s craft beer diversity.
Craft Beer Experience
Des Moines offers a vibrant craft beer experience, featuring seasonal specialties, well-designed outdoor spaces, and dynamic brewery entertainment options for both connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
Seasonal Variations
Des Moines breweries excel at showcasing seasonal variations in their craft beer offerings. Patrons can enjoy a variety of special releases that reflect the changing Midwest seasons, from rich stouts in the winter to refreshing ales in the summer. The brewing community often celebrates these seasonal brews with release parties, adding to the anticipatory experience of these limited-time flavors.
Winter: Expect robust flavors like chocolate or coffee notes in stouts and porters.
Spring: Breweries introduce lighter pale ales and IPAs with floral and citrus aromas.
Summer: Crisp lagers and fruit-infused wheat beers become the stars of the menu.
Fall: Oktoberfest and pumpkin-spiced variations make their anticipated return.
Outdoor Seating and Patios
The craft beer experience often extends beyond the taproom, with many Des Moines breweries offering outdoor seating and patios. These spaces are ideal for sipping a well-crafted lager or an aromatic IPA while enjoying Iowa's pleasant weather. Breweries like Barn Town Brewing provide comfortable patio settings, while the carefully designed spaces often feature heaters or fire pits for the cooler days, ensuring the outdoor experience can be appreciated for most of the year.
Brewery Entertainment
Breweries in Des Moines understand that craft beer pairs well with live entertainment. Events are regularly scheduled, ranging from live music performances to trivia nights, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the craft beer experience. Places like 515 Brewing Company may offer a rotation of events, fostering a community atmosphere where guests can engage with one another and the brewers themselves. Regular patrons and visitors alike find that entertainment contributes significantly to the lively ambiance of Des Moines' craft beer culture.
Pairing Food and Beer
In Des Moines, the art of pairing craft beer with local cuisine has garnered attention, creating a delightful experience for both food lovers and beer enthusiasts. The focus on combining regional flavors with the unique profiles of local brews enhances dining and drinking experiences across the city.
Culinary Partnerships
Des Moines’ craft beer scene champions the culinary partnerships between local breweries and kitchens. These alliances often feature menus where each dish is thoughtfully matched with a handcrafted beer, enhancing the flavors of both.
Food Trucks: A staple at many Des Moines breweries, food trucks bring a myriad of flavors, pairing street food favorites with the perfect beer. For example, a spicy Korean BBQ taco might be expertly coupled with a bright, citrusy IPA to balance the heat.
Brewpub Menus: Brewpubs typically curate their menus to complement their beer selection. Patrons might find a rich, malty stout paired with a hearty, roasted meat dish or a light pilsner alongside a crisp salad.
Local Cuisine Highlights
The local cuisine of Des Moines offers several highlights that are ideal for beer pairings, drawing from both traditional and innovative culinary approaches.
Midwest Classics: Dishes like tailgate-style brats or smoky ribs naturally pair well with a variety of craft beers, such as robust porters or hoppy ales.
Fine Dining: Higher-end menus might suggest a complex Belgian ale to accompany a perfectly cooked steak, or a fruity wheat beer to go with a fancy dessert.
Local brewers and chefs continually explore and refine these pairings, ensuring patrons have exceptional food and beer experiences.
Local Beer Culture
Des Moines' craft beer scene is an evolving tapestry of communal engagement and local support, with a thriving culture palpable in its breweries and online communities.
Craft Beer Community
The community surrounding craft beer in Des Moines is characterized by a robust camaraderie among local breweries and their patrons. This sense of community is not only limited to beer aficionados but extends to novices who are warmly welcomed into tasting rooms across the city. Local breweries, like Barn Town Brewing, are prime examples of places where people can experience the friendliness and inclusive nature that defines the Des Moines craft beer community. These establishments frequently host events and collaborate with each other, bolstering a communal environment that supports local brewing innovation.
Support within this community is also seen in the way breweries like 515 Brewing Co. focus on creating and serving local products, thus fostering a culture that celebrates local craftsmanship. Engaging in the local beer scene also contributes to the economy, with breweries often sourcing ingredients from regional farms and suppliers.
Social Media and Craft Beer
In Des Moines, social media has become an indispensable tool for breweries to connect with their audience. Twitter, in particular, offers a platform for real-time engagement, with breweries like Peace Tree Brewing using it to announce new releases and events. The immediacy and interactive nature of Twitter allow breweries to foster a direct and personal connection with their patrons, enhancing the culture of communal support.
Furthermore, social media channels serve as communal spaces for craft beer enthusiasts to share experiences, reviews, and recommendations. This virtual connection has strengthened the overall sense of community in Des Moines' craft beer culture, as locals and visitors alike can stay informed and engaged with the city's vibrant beer offerings.
Through these digital networks, the community's enthusiasm for craft beer is broadcasted far beyond the boundaries of Des Moines, inviting craft beer lovers everywhere to explore and participate in the city's local beer culture.
Craft Beer Tourism
Des Moines, Iowa, has grown into a prime destination for craft beer enthusiasts, offering an array of brewery tours and a unique blend of beer trails accessible by bike. These attractions put the city on the map for travelers seeking a taste of the local brewing culture.
Beer Trails and Bike Tours
Des Moines caters to the adventurous beer tourist with a variety of beer trails that can be explored on bike—a fun nod to the area's extensive metro bike trail system. Visitors can leisurely cycle between participating breweries, enjoying the rich tapestry of flavors that the local craft beer scene has to offer.
Des Moines Brew Tours: These guided tours chauffeur visitors between 3-4 local breweries, providing up to 16 craft beer samples and a paired meal or snack.
Self-Guided Tours: For those preferring a more spontaneous experience, there's the option of self-guided tours using the city's bike trails to visit breweries at their own pace.
Des Moines as a Destination
Des Moines has positioned itself as a welcoming locale for beer tourism within the Midwest. Its breweries are often situated in historical or culturally significant landmarks, enhancing the overall experience.
Barn Town Brewing: A notable stop that opens its doors 7 days a week, it pairs unique brews with a side of local history in West Des Moines.
Twisted Vine Brewery: Situated in a 150-year-old brick building, this brewery not only serves craft beer but also offers a glimpse into Des Moines' past.
Travelers can plan their visit around events such as the Iowa Craft Beer Festival at Water Works Park or simply enjoy the diverse offerings of Des Moines' craft breweries any time of the year. With each sip, visitors connect with the city’s history and the innovative spirit that drives its craft beer community.
Future of Des Moines Craft Beer
Des Moines is poised for an exciting evolution in its craft beer landscape, characterized by the advent of new breweries and technological advancements that promise to redefine the brewing experience.
Emerging Breweries
Des Moines' craft beer scene is experiencing growth with new startups aspiring to join the ranks of established local favorites. A noteworthy trend is the focus on specialized niches, with upcoming breweries distinguishing themselves through unique brews and thematic taprooms.
Startups to Watch:
Brewery X: Focusing on barrel-aged beers.
Brewery Y: Offering an array of farmhouse and sour ales.
Innovations in Brewing
Innovation is key to the future of craft beer in Des Moines, with breweries embracing technology to enhance quality and sustainability. The use of data analytics for flavor profiling and process optimization is becoming commonplace, while novel brewing techniques are being adopted for a more eco-friendly operation.
Technological Advances:
Automated Brewing Systems: Increasing precision and consistency.
Water Reclamation Initiatives: Aimed at reducing the environmental impact.
Through these developments, Des Moines is cementing its place as a dynamic hub for craft beer that values both tradition and forward-thinking.
