Indianapolis, IN Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Ultimate Brewery Tour
Indianapolis has firmly positioned itself as a notable destination for craft beer aficionados. The capital city of Indiana is teeming with a rich variety of breweries, each contributing to a vibrant local beer scene. Visitors and residents alike have the opportunity to explore an array of establishments that range from intimate taprooms to expansive warehouses, indicative of the city's commitment to quality, diversity, and the craft of brewing.
The dedication of Indianapolis to its brewing craft comes into play with initiatives like the Indy Craft Pass, which encourages exploration of the local breweries while providing rewards for enthusiasts. Known for its pioneering spirit, the city's beer scene is not only about the quantity but also the quality of the options available. Each brewery within the city echoes the community's personality, offering a spectrum of flavors catering to a myriad of palates.
The experience of visiting these local breweries is often paired with unique offerings beyond the beer. Food menus featuring locally sourced ingredients, special events, and brewery tours highlight Indianapolis's dedication to creating an inclusive atmosphere around its craft beer scene. The result is a comprehensive and enjoyable environment that locals cherish and visitors seek out in their pursuit of authentic craft beer experiences.
History of Brewing in Indianapolis
Indianapolis holds a rich tradition in brewing, with its origins tracing back to the early 19th century. The city's craft beer scene has evolved significantly, seeing a dramatic resurgence in popularity in recent decades.
Development of the Craft Beer Scene
In 1834, Indianapolis marked its entry into the brewing world with the establishment of Wernweg & Young. This brewing entity operated until 1840, laying the foundations for a burgeoning industry. The beer scene witnessed an era of decline mid-20th century, leaving Indiana with very few breweries. However, by 1989, Indianapolis experienced a revival in craft brewing, signaling the beginning of a new era. The opening of a revived Indianapolis Brewing Company on Post Road ignited an industry boom that would help define the city's brewing identity for years to come.
The growth was gradual but steady, and a notable contributor to this revival is Sun King Brewing which opened its doors in 2009 and quickly became a cornerstone of Indianapolis brewing. Emphasizing local culture and quality brews, Sun King has garnered a devout following.
Notable Breweries in Indianapolis History
Throughout its history, Indianapolis has seen the rise of many esteemed breweries, each contributing uniquely to the city's craft beer tapestry.
Broad Ripple Brewpub: Established in 1990, it holds the honor of being Indianapolis's first brewpub, and it has since been a beloved fixture of the local scene.
Fountain Square Brew Co: A more recent addition, this brewery operates within the artistic Fountain Square neighborhood, merging creativity with craft.
Here's a snapshot of the key breweries:
Brewery Year Established Notable Contribution
Broad Ripple Brewpub 1990 Indianapolis's first brewpub
Sun King Brewing 2009 Leading force in the modern brewing renaissance
Fountain Square Brew Co - Cultural hub in Fountain Square
These establishments, among others, have woven a rich narrative within Indianapolis, helping Indiana become a recognized leader in the craft beer movement.
Guide to Indianapolis Breweries
The Indianapolis craft beer scene is vibrant and diverse, with an array of breweries that offer unique experiences and flavors. From tap rooms that serve as community hubs to brewpubs that pair their pours with culinary delights, each establishment has its own personality.
Sun King Brewery
Sun King Brewery has garnered respect for its award-winning beers available since 2009. Tap Room: Enjoy a variety of staple and seasonal beers in their welcoming tap room.
Fountain Square Brewing Companies
Fountain Square Brewing Companies contribute to the area's artistic ambiance, mixing creative brews with local culture. Brewery Features: Expect a blend of traditional and innovative beers.
Chilly Water Brewing Company
Chilly Water Brewing Company is known for its finely crafted lagers and ales. Visitors can relish these in an inviting atmosphere that epitomizes the passion of Indy's craft beer community.
Bier Brewery
Bier Brewery has established itself through a focus on quality and consistency, with a variety of award-winning beers. Website: Check online for their latest offerings and events.
Daredevil Brewing Co
At Daredevil Brewing Co, one finds a wide range of beers, only a short distance from the famed speedway. Their spacious patio is a draw for both sunshine and live music lovers.
Metazoa Brewing Company
Metazoa Brewing Company is where craft beer meets a passion for animals, offering a range of styles with a pet-friendly atmosphere. Tap Room: A portion of their sales goes to support animal and wildlife organizations.
Guggman Haus Brewing Co
Guggman Haus Brewing Co is a cozy brewery with an inviting tap room, known for both their exceptional beer and vibrant community events.
Deviate Brewing
Deviate Brewing excels in pushing the boundaries of beer with experimental brews and robust traditional selections alike.
Big Lug Canteen
Big Lug Canteen brings together creative brews and a quirky, casual eating experience, making it a favorite local hangout.
Centerpoint Brewing
Centerpoint Brewing prides itself on approachable beers that have a broad appeal, offering a relaxed environment in their expansive tap room.
Scarlet Lane Brewing Company
Scarlet Lane Brewing Company captures the adventurous spirit of Indy's beer culture with its bold flavors and engaging community activities.
Triton Brewing Company
Triton Brewing Company and Bistro provides a delightful mix of artisanal beers and food pairings. Website: Patrons can explore their offerings and philosophy online.
Each brewery in Indianapolis contributes to a tapestry of tastes and experiences. With so many to choose from, connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike will find something to savor.
Popular Beer Styles and Local Favorites
Indianapolis is a city celebrated for its vibrant craft beer culture. Enthusiasts are treated to a wealth of local favorites and a variety of beer styles that epitomize the city's passion for brewing.
Renowned Indianapolis Craft Beers
Sun King Brewery is a cornerstone in the Indianapolis brewing scene, known for its award-winning Sunlight Cream Ale. This Ale is a smooth, approachable beer that appeals to a wide range of palates. Another popular offering from the brewery is the Wee Mac Scottish Ale, a malty ale that pays homage to traditional Scottish brewing techniques.
Lift Off IPA is a creation of Daredevil Brewing Co, offering a bold, hop-forward flavor that is both refreshing and robust, securing its status as a staple for hop enthusiasts. Additionally, Upland Brewing Company's Dragonfly IPA is a well-received choice, marked by its balance and classic IPA bitterness.
Diverse Range of Local Beer Styles
Indianapolis brewers are not shy about experimenting with various beer styles. Lagers, a category beloved for its crisp and clean taste, have their place among local breweries who craft their own unique versions. Saisons and Ambers are also prominent, showcasing the city's ability to produce beers ranging from earthy and spicy to rich and caramel-like in their flavor profiles.
A beloved local brew, Confessional IPA, stands out with its tropical notes and hoppy character. It represents Indianapolis's craft breweries' dedication to producing beers with complex flavors that still maintain drinkability.
The variety of beers available in Indianapolis offers something for every taste preference, ensuring that both newcomers to craft beer and seasoned enthusiasts find satisfaction in this thriving beer scene.
Brewery Amenities and Experiences
Indianapolis breweries offer a wealth of experiences, from tours that provide insight into the brewing process to lush beer gardens where patrons can enjoy a pint in the open air. Each brewery caters to both casual visitors and beer aficionados with a variety of events throughout the year.
Taprooms and Tours
Taprooms serve as the face of Indianapolis breweries, offering a direct experience with their craft beers in a setting that reflects each brewery's personality. Visitors can expect a wide selection of beers, often including exclusive brews not available elsewhere. Many breweries complement their taproom experience with tours, during which they share the brewing process, company history, and beer-making philosophy. These tours enhance visitors' appreciation for the craftsmanship behind each pint.
Outdoor Beer Gardens
An Outdoor Beer Garden provides an inviting atmosphere where friends and families can gather to enjoy craft beers in a more natural setting. These spaces often feature comfortable seating, communal tables, and sometimes fire pits or live music, making them ideal for relaxing on a warm day. The beer gardens at Indianapolis breweries are seasonal, allowing patrons to enjoy the city's fine weather along with their favorite local brews.
Events and Festivals
Indianapolis breweries are active participants in the local and national beer scene, hosting and taking part in Events and Festivals. A noteworthy event is the Great American Beer Festival, where the best of the best converge, showcasing a broad range of styles and flavors. Locally, breweries may organize beer tastings, release parties, or beer pairing dinners, providing a platform for beer lovers to come together and celebrate the vibrant craft beer culture of Indianapolis.
Pairing Food with Craft Beers
The burgeoning craft beer scene in Indianapolis offers a rich tapestry of flavors, which are artfully complemented by a variety of food pairings at local establishments.
Indianapolis Brewpubs and Food Offerings
Brewpubs in Indianapolis, like The Black Acre Loft, cater to both gourmands and beer enthusiasts by providing upscale cuisine alongside their artisan beer. A visitor can expect a speakeasy vibe and a staff that's knowledgeable about pairing their robust beer selection with their food offerings, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Craft Beer and Pizza Pairings
Pizza and craft beer form a classic combination, where the varied styles from Indianapolitan breweries meet the universally loved dish. For example, a hoppy and bitter IPA may complement a spicy pepperoni pizza, balancing the heat, while a malty and sweet ale pairs well with a pizza laden with savory meats, adding a hint of sweetness to the mix.
Local Eateries with Craft Beer Selections
Indianapolis food trucks and local eateries pride themselves on an eclectic craft beer selection. Diners can rely on staff at venues such as Tomlinson Tap Room to recommend the perfect craft beer to go with a casual meal, often including local favorites and seasonal brews that highlight the best of Indianapolis while supporting the vibrant food truck culture.
Locating Indianapolis Craft Beers
Indianapolis is well-known for its rich variety of local craft beers, which can be found across the city’s diverse neighborhoods and specially curated in multiple retail stores, bars, and restaurants.
Brewery Locations and Neighborhoods
Fountain Square and Broad Ripple are key neighborhoods for beer enthusiasts looking to explore Indianapolis craft breweries. Fountain Square boasts a growing number of breweries, whereas Broad Ripple is synonymous with a vibrant nightlife and craft beer scene.
Fountain Square
Notable Brewery: Title
Address: Fountain Square, Indianapolis, IN
Broad Ripple
Notable Brewery: Title
Address: Broad Ripple, Indianapolis, IN
Each location presents a distinct ambiance that complements the flavorful experience of local brews.
Retail Stores Selling Local Craft Beer
Retail stores throughout Indianapolis dedicate shelf space to local craft beer offerings, showcasing the city's brewery talent.
Downtown
Store Name: Best Brews
Specialty: Wide selection of Indianapolis craft beers
North Side
Store Name: The Hop Shop
Specialty: Curated local Indiana beers
Shoppers can expect to find an array of options from pale ales to rich stouts sourced from local Indianapolis breweries.
Bars and Restaurants Featuring Local Beers
Bars and restaurants in Indianapolis often feature selections of local craft beers, highlighting the city's brewing prowess on their menus.
Downtown Eateries
Eatery Name: Craft & Hops
Notable For: Rotating tap of Indianapolis brews
Broad Ripple Pubs
Pub Name: The Brewmaster's House
Notable For: Exclusive local Indianapolis draughts
Patrons can pair their meals with finely brewed local drafts, enriching their culinary experience.
Community and Culture
In Indianapolis, the craft beer community thrives on the support of local breweries and the avid participation of beer enthusiasts, particularly through social media platforms.
Supporting Local Breweries
Local breweries in Indianapolis serve as cultural hotspots where beer lovers gather to savor unique blends and partake in the city’s vibrant beer culture. Patrons actively contribute to the success of these establishments, recognizing that their support helps sustain the local economy and fosters a thriving community of craft beer aficionados. Each brewery's distinct atmosphere and beer selection resonate with visitors, cultivating loyalty and encouraging regular patronage.
Craft Beer Enthusiasts and Social Media
Social media plays a pivotal role in the Indianapolis craft beer scene, with platforms like Untappd being instrumental for beer enthusiasts to share and discover local brews. Users post reviews, engage in discussions, and attend events promoted across these networks, enhancing the sense of community. Facebook groups and Instagram pages dedicated to Indianapolis craft beer culture enable enthusiasts to connect, while breweries leverage these platforms to announce new releases and events, driving further engagement.
Awards and Recognition
Indianapolis breweries have garnered attention through a variety of prestigious awards. They have been celebrated both on local stages and at national levels, emphasizing the city's craft beer prestige.
Local and National Accolades
Indianapolis's craft beer scene has earned numerous Local and National Accolades, reflecting the excellence of its craft beer offerings. From intensely competitive statewide contests to broader national recognitions, Indianapolis breweries stand out. For instance:
Statewide Awards: Breweries have been recipients of the Indiana Brewers' Cup, highlighting the best of the state's craft beer.
National Recognition: Several Indianapolis breweries have been praised by critics and beer enthusiasts alike in platforms such as USA Today, which has named the city a Top Five Beer City.
World Beer Cup and Other Achievements
World Beer Cup has been a notable stage where Indianapolis breweries have showcased their brewing finesse on an international level. The competition is often regarded as the "Olympics of Beer," drawing global competitors.
Awards such as Gold, Silver, or Bronze in the World Beer Cup have been claimed by local breweries, signaling Indianapolis's prowess in brewing. This includes a variety of beer styles judged by a highly respected international panel.
By participating and securing wins in events like the World Beer Cup, Indianapolis breweries have solidified their reputation for quality and innovation in the craft beer landscape.
