Lincoln, NE Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Ultimate Tour of Breweries and Alehouses
Lincoln, Nebraska has rapidly become a hub for craft beer enthusiasts, boasting a flourishing scene that rivals many larger cities. The capital of Nebraska is home to a diverse array of breweries, offering a rich selection of locally brewed craft beers. With an emphasis on quality and creativity, Lincoln's breweries have garnered attention for their innovative approaches to brewing and dedication to community involvement.
The city's craft beer landscape features standouts such as Boiler Brewing Company, known for its artful blends and experimental batches, and Zipline Brewing, which has a reputation for consistent quality across its range of offerings. Each establishment in Lincoln brings its own unique flair, contributing to a beer culture that's both collaborative and competitive. Patrons can find an impressive variety of styles, from hop-heavy IPAs to smooth stouts, reflective of Nebraska's agricultural heritage and the local palate's growing sophistication.
Given the rise in popularity, Lincoln has also seen a surge in supporting establishments like craft beer bars and events that showcase local brews. Beer aficionados can enjoy a pint at renowned spots such as HopCat and The Single Barrel or attend celebrations like Lincoln Craft Beer Week, highlighting the city's commitment to craft beer. This dedication to the craft ensures that Lincoln's beer scene remains vibrant and continuing to evolve, inviting both locals and visitors to partake in Nebraska's brewing prowess.
History of Craft Beer in Lincoln
Lincoln, Nebraska, has a longstanding relationship with craft beer, marked by ingenuity and tradition. It was in 1990 that Empyrean Brewing Co., then operating within Lazlo’s, a local brewpub, pioneered the local craft beer scene. They hold the commendable status of being Nebraska's original craft brewery, setting precedent for the burgeoning industry within the state.
The early 1990s witnessed a nationwide surge in craft beer appreciation, and Lincoln was no exception. Empyrean's success sparked a craft beer movement, inspiring others to follow suit in the later years. The craft beer landscape in Lincoln is rich with a variety of local brews, formulated with a dedication to quality, flavor, and regional pride.
The city celebrates this beer culture annually during Lincoln Craft Beer Week, which becomes a showcase for the local breweries. It is not just a festival but an educational experience where attendees can learn about the complexities of brewing and sample local specialties.
Participants in Lincoln’s craft beer culture don’t just brew; they build upon a community, sharing their unique beer creations and often providing a snapshot of Nebraska’s natural agricultural gifts. Each brewery brings its own distinctive flavor and experience, contributing to a diversified and robust craft beer scene in the capital of Nebraska.
As of the last few years, Lincoln's portfolio of breweries has expanded to include noteworthy names such as Zipline Brewing. They and others like them keep the city’s craft beer heritage alive, offering taprooms with varied hours, ensuring that residents and visitors alike can enjoy Lincoln's craft beer experience any day of the week.
Guide to Lincoln's Craft Breweries
Lincoln, Nebraska's craft beer scene is diverse and vibrant, boasting an impressive array of breweries that cater to every taste. From award-winning stouts to innovative ales, Lincoln's craft breweries offer a rich selection of locally brewed beers, often accompanied by unique experiences, such as food trucks and art displays.
White Elm Brewing Co
At White Elm Brewing Co, the taproom features a dynamic selection of beers on tap, winning over enthusiasts with their inviting ambiance and standout brews. Patrons often rave about both the quality and variety of the craft options available.
Boiler Brewing Co
Boiler Brewing Co, located in the heart of downtown Lincoln in the Haymarket area, is celebrated for its exceptional beer selection and the unique art that adorns its walls. Reviews frequently highlight the knowledgeable staff and the welcoming atmosphere that make it a must-visit spot for both locals and visitors.
Zipline Brewing Co
With a reputation bolstered by multiple awards, including at the Great American Beer Festival, Zipline Brewing Co delights patrons with its consistently excellent beers. Zipline has entrenched itself as a favorite in the state for its taste and innovation in different beers.
Backswing Brewing Co
Golf enthusiasts and beer fans alike find common ground at Backswing Brewing Co. This brewery, inspired by Nebraska's love for golf courses, scores with its friendly vibe and a selection of satisfying brews that hit the sweet spot for both craft beer rookies and seasoned connoisseurs.
Code Beer Co
Code Beer Co stands out with its wide array of different beers. They foster a culture of experimentation and quality, making their taproom a hotspot for those looking to try new and exciting craft options in Lincoln, NE.
Empyrean Brewing Co
As one of the pioneering craft breweries in Lincoln, Empyrean Brewing Co has perfected its offerings over the years, delivering a premium taste experience. With a nod to the celestial, Empyrean's beers often receive high praises for their divine flavors and consistent quality.
Kinkaider Brewing Co
For those exploring the Lincoln brewery scene, Kinkaider Brewing Co is a name that often pops up. Known for their dedication to craft and community, Kinkaider's brews evoke the spirit of Nebraska, providing an authentic and memorable beer-tasting adventure.
Craft Beer Tasting Experience
The craft beer scene in Lincoln, Nebraska is a vibrant testament to the creativity and diversity of the brewing industry. The city offers a rich palette of flavors for enthusiasts to explore, with a focus on mastering the craft of tasting and appreciating various styles.
Understanding Different Beer Styles
In Lincoln, beer lovers encounter a comprehensive selection ranging from light and refreshing lagers to complex and tart sours. Tap selections often include a variety of ales, stouts, and ciders, to name a few, each providing unique flavor profiles. Here are some common styles found in Lincoln's breweries:
Ales: Fruity and full-bodied with a wide spectrum of flavors.
Lagers: Crisp and smooth, often lighter in taste.
Stouts: Dark and rich, with hints of chocolate or coffee.
IPAs (India Pale Ales): Noted for their strong hop flavor and higher bitterness.
Sours: Sharp and tangy, these brews offer a noticeable tartness.
Ciders: Made from fermented apple juice, these are a sweeter, fruit-forward option.
The Art of Beer Tasting
To truly appreciate the art of beer, one should pay attention to four main attributes: appearance, aroma, taste, and mouthfeel. It starts with visually inspecting the beer for color and clarity. Sniffing the beer precedes sipping to identify the various scents from hops to malts. A nuanced sip allows the taster to appreciate the complexity or simplicity of the beer, and the mouthfeel—whether it's creamy, fizzy, or somewhere in between—rounds out the tasting experience.
Popular Beers on Tap
In the taprooms of Lincoln, beer aficionados will find a range of popular beers that reflect the wealth of local brewing talent. White Elm Brewing Co is known for its ¡Champurrado!, an imperial stout. Beer enthusiasts may also encounter light, hoppy selections and even experimental brews in these spaces, showcasing Nebraska brewers' innovation and expertise. Each taproom provides a selection that caters to both the traditionalist and the adventurous, with an array of tastes to suit any palate.
Pairing Beer with Food
When considering the rich tapestry of local craft beers in Lincoln, NE, the art of pairing these beverages with the right food is essential to enhance the gastronomic experience. The inherent flavors and aromas of beer can either complement or contrast food, providing a symphony of taste when done correctly.
Crisp and Clean beers, such as lagers or pilsners, are best served with lighter fare. Think of pairing them with:
Salads
Grilled chicken
Seafood
Malty and Sweet ales have a body that holds up to heartier foods, making them a match for:
Sausages
Roasted meats
Barbecue
Darker ales, under the category of Dark and Roasty, find harmony with:
Grilled steaks
Smoked foods
Chocolaty desserts
The Hoppy and Bitter profile of IPAs complements:
Spicy dishes (What wine goes well with spicy dishes?)
Burgers
Wings
Patrons can explore nuanced flavors with Fruity and Spicy beers alongside:
Ethnic cuisine
Cheese plates
Fruit-based desserts (What wine goes well with fruit-based desserts?)
Lastly, Sour, Tart, and Funky beers go well with:
Shellfish
Goat cheese
Sourdough bread
Local food trucks often frequent Lincoln’s breweries, offering a myriad of snacks and food options that can be paired with the taproom’s selection. Visitors should inquire about the rotating menu, as these mobile kitchens provide a range of selections, from sliders and tacos to artisanal cheeses and charcuterie, each with the potential to enhance the chosen beer.
Seasonal and Special Releases
In Lincoln, Nebraska, craft breweries often showcase their creativity and expertise by offering an enticing selection of seasonal and special releases. These variations provide patrons with unique flavors that reflect the changing seasons and highlight the brewers' skills.
Brewery A stands out with its rotating selection of seasonal beers, which may include:
Fallen Angel Sweet Stout: A robust stout perfect for autumn evenings.
Aries Märzen: A traditional German-style lager typically enjoyed during fall.
Winter Wisdom Hazelnut Brown Ale: A rich ale infused with the warm flavors of hazelnut, ideal for winter months.
The selection at Brewery A and others in the area often entices with different beers crafted to suit the season. Beer enthusiasts eagerly anticipate these special releases, as they typically offer a distinct and limited-time experience.
A typical seasonal lineup in Lincoln might include:
Season Beer Example Style
Spring Spring Blossom IPA India Pale Ale
Summer Summer Zest Wheat Wheat Beer
Fall Orchard's Harvest Cider Ale Cider Ale Blend
Winter Frostbitten Barleywine Barleywine
Breweries adjust their selections to leverage seasonal ingredients and thematic tastes that resonate with the time of year. They offer everything from refreshing citrus-infused ales during summer to hearty, spiced stouts that embody the essence of winter. Beer aficionados look forward to these diversely styled and innovatively flavored brews available across Lincoln's craft beer landscape.
Craft Beer Events & Tours
Lincoln, Nebraska hosts an annual event called Lincoln Craft Beer Week, where beer enthusiasts can explore the local scene. During this festivity, various venues collaborate to showcase the city's brewing talents. Each participating location offers insights into their signature brews and brewing techniques, alongside the pleasure of tasting.
Empyrean Beer School is an ideal event for those eager to deepen their understanding of the brewing process. With limited tickets available for a free experience, attendees are treated to two sample pints and intimate group tours led by the brewers themselves.
For a comprehensive encounter, the Zipline Brewing Co. gears up with an exciting lineup during the Craft Beer Week, presenting a chance for visitors to engage with the local brewing community.
Considered among the top breweries, venues like Boiler Brewing Company are recognized for their rotating beer selection and knowledgeable staff. Brew enthusiasts find these tours both educational and enjoyable as they sample various craft beers.
Backswing Brewing also stands out for its quality and atmosphere, providing a space where beer aficionados can sample unique local flavors.
To summarize, Lincoln's craft beer offerings are as follows:
Annual Events:
Lincoln Craft Beer Week: Explore local brews and participate in unique events.
Tours and Tastings:
Empyrean Beer School: Dive into Nebraska's original craft brewery with free tastings and tours.
Boiler Brewing Company & Backswing Brewing: Indulge in guided tastings with rotating beer selections.
These events and tours not only highlight the rich beer culture of Lincoln but also connect visitors and locals to the heartbeat of the city's craft beer community.
Local Craft Beer Culture
Lincoln, Nebraska’s craft beer scene reflects the city’s vibrant culture and community spirit, characterized by a blend of innovation and tradition. Visitors and locals alike can savour a diverse selection of craft beer while supporting a thriving local industry that takes pride in creating unique beverages.
Community Engagement
In the heart of the Midwest, Lincoln brewers demonstrate their commitment to community engagement through various events and activities. They often host craft beer weeks and festivals, inviting the community to celebrate the rich tapestry of local beer. These events not only showcase different beers but also serve as a gathering spot for enthusiasts to connect, share their passion, and immerse themselves in Lincoln's craft beer culture.
Innovation and Unique Offerings
The breweries in Lincoln are known for pushing boundaries with their innovative brewing techniques. They offer an array of distinctive flavors, ranging from bold IPAs to creative sours, changing the landscape of Nebraska beer. Each brewery specializes in their unique twist on traditional brews, experimenting with local ingredients and seasonal offerings that perfectly capture the essence of Lincoln in every sip.
Supporting Local Businesses
Patronizing Lincoln's craft breweries contributes to the robustness of local businesses and has a positive impact on the community’s economy. Breweries often collaborate with local artists and businesses, intertwining craft beer with facets of Lincoln's art and culture. These collaborations not only foster local support but also highlight the profound relationship between craft beer and Lincoln's identity.
Amenities and Experience
Lincoln's craft beer scene offers an impressive variety of amenities that enhance the drinking experience, from spacious patios to family and pet-friendly environments, as well as engaging entertainment options for a complete social outing.
Craft Breweries with Outdoor Seating
Many breweries in Lincoln boast expansive outdoor seating areas that provide a chill atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their craft beer. Establishments such as White Elm Brewing Co. offer comfortable outdoor spaces for guests to savor a pint in the fresh air, ensuring a relaxed drinking environment.
Family-Friendly and Pet-Friendly Options
Several breweries cultivate a welcoming space for the whole family, including furry members. Some locations provide a safe and enjoyable setting complete with food options, often featuring local food trucks that park on-site to serve a variety of cuisines. This pairing of good food and craft beer makes for an inclusive experience.
Entertainment and Activities
Beyond the beer, Lincoln's craft breweries enrich the visit with diverse entertainment choices. For those seeking an active diversion, options like craft axe throwing are available at select venues, while others are situated near golf courses for an easy transition from a day on the green to a relaxing beer-tasting session. Regular live performances and events contribute further to the lively atmosphere within Lincoln's brewery culture.
Additional Offerings
Lincoln's craft beer aficionados can find more than just beer at local breweries. These establishments often feature a variety of ciders, wines, and non-alcoholic options, along with a selection of branded merchandise.
Cider & Wine Options
Many breweries in Lincoln have expanded their selections to include craft ciders and wines, catering to a broader range of tastes. Saro Cider, known for its innovative cider offerings, provides an alternative for those who prefer the sweeter, fruit-based profiles of cider. Additionally, a selection of regional wines is often available for those who are more inclined towards vineyard offerings.
Non-Alcoholic and Alternative Beverages
Breweries understand that not everyone may be interested in alcoholic beverages. To accommodate this, they provide an array of non-alcoholic options. From craft sodas to kombucha, these alternatives are crafted with the same attention to detail as their alcoholic counterparts, ensuring that every patron has a satisfying experience.
Brewery Merchandise and Souvenirs
Visitors looking to take a piece of their experience home can browse through the assortment of merchandise offered. Local breweries typically feature a bevy of souvenirs, such as branded glassware, t-shirts, and other paraphernalia that allow fans to show their support for their favorite Lincoln craft beer spots.
Visitor Information
When planning a visit to Lincoln, Nebraska's breweries, potential visitors should consider the operating hours, parking and accessibility options, and reservation policies at each location to ensure a smooth experience.
Operating Hours and Locations
Most breweries in Lincoln tend to have visitor-friendly operating hours throughout the week. For instance:
Taproom: Open 7 days a week, 3 PM - 8 PM (Sun - Thu), 1 PM - 10 PM (Fri & Sat)
Beer Hall: Open 7 days, 2 PM - 10 PM (Mon - Thu), 12 PM - 12 AM (Fri & Sat), 12 PM - 8 PM (Sun)
Visitors should check with individual breweries as hours may vary and can be subject to change.
Parking and Accessibility
Breweries in Lincoln typically offer parking spaces, but the availability can differ greatly from one to another. It's advisable for visitors to:
Check for dedicated parking lots at the breweries they plan to visit.
Seek street parking where available if on-site parking is limited.
Most locations are accessible, providing easy access for individuals with mobility issues. However, confirming the level of accessibility with each brewery ahead of time is recommended.
Reservation Policies
Reservation policies differ among Lincoln's breweries:
Some breweries may accept reservations, particularly for larger groups or special events.
Others operate on a first-come, first-serve basis, especially ones that pair with food trucks and have more spacious seating areas.
Visitors should inquire directly with Brewery A or their brewery of choice about reservation options to ensure they can be accommodated upon arrival.
Conclusion: Lincoln's Craft Beer Scene
Lincoln, Nebraska has established itself as a hub for craft beer enthusiasts. The city’s breweries showcase a commitment to quality and diversity in their beer offerings. Among them, Zed’s Beer stands out with its strategic location and vibrant atmosphere, providing live music and a gathering place for both groups and individual patrons.
The range of styles and flavors from local breweries like Empyrean Brewing Co., Zipline Brewery, Brickway Brewery & Distillery, and Scriptown Brewing Co. reflects the city's passion for craft beer. These breweries contribute to a robust scene that caters to a spectrum of tastes, from the casual sipper to the dedicated aficionado.
Lincoln's beer culture isn't just a passing trend but a part of the city's social fabric. The presence of food trucks and taproom events further enriches the experience, creating a dynamic beer culture that locals take pride in. The city's breweries are not only places to enjoy a quality pint but also spaces where the science and art of brewing are greatly appreciated.
Craft beer lovers visiting Lincoln will find a welcoming community and a diverse range of locally produced beers. For residents and visitors alike, Lincoln’s breweries are worth exploring for their unique contributions to the city's local flavor and community spirit.
