Cincinnati, OH Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Authority on the Best Brews in Town
Cincinnati, Ohio, has become a vibrant hub for craft beer enthusiasts. With a rich brewing heritage that harks back to its German roots, the city has experienced a renaissance in its beer culture. Local breweries in Cincinnati and its surrounding areas, like Rhinegeist Brewery with its cityscape views, and the family-run Little Miami Brewing Company that sits alongside the scenic Little Miami River, are testaments to the region's commitment to quality and community. Each establishment offers a unique selection of beers that cater to a variety of tastes, showcasing the innovation and diversity within Cincinnati's craft beer scene.
The variety and caliber of Cincinnati's breweries mirror the city's history and its contemporary vibe. From the riverfront Christian Moerlein Brewing Company, which offers a taste of local history along with its brews, to the innovative fermentations found within the walls of Urban Artifact housed in a historic church, the city's craft beer spots provide a multifaceted experience. Whether it's enjoying a fresh beer paired with wood-fired pizza or raising a glass on a rooftop bar, Cincinnati's craft breweries offer more than just beer—they offer gathering places that bring both locals and visitors together.
History of Cincinnati Craft Beer
Cincinnati's craft beer scene has a rich tradition dating back to the 1800s with a significant German immigrant population establishing numerous breweries. By the mid-19th century, these breweries were flourishing, with Over-the-Rhine, a neighborhood north of the Miami Erie canal, becoming the epicenter of this brewing boom.
Prohibition in the 1920s caused a halt to all brewing activities, and many breweries never recovered from this period. However, Cincinnati's love for beer persisted. In the latter part of the 20th century, the brewing scene in Ohio began to re-emerge, with Cincinnati leading the charge.
The modern craft beer movement in Cincinnati honors this heritage, with breweries old and new brewing a diverse range of beer styles. The Brewing Heritage Trail offers a historical glimpse into the city's brewing past while guiding enthusiasts through current locales where the craft of beer-making continues.
Local Breweries:
Rhinegeist Brewery: A leader in the craft beer revival, known for its rooftop with city views.
Findlay Market: A historic location, though not a brewery, it's relevant for its array of local food and drink that pairs well with craft beer.
These establishments not only serve as social hubs but also as custodians of Cincinnati's deep-rooted beer culture. The city's brewing history is underlined by its ability to adapt and grow, from overcoming the dark days of Prohibition to embracing the modern renaissance of craft beer.
Guide to Cincinnati Breweries
Cincinnati's craft beer scene is a vibrant tapestry of local flavors and innovative brewing techniques. From the historic streets of Over-the-Rhine to the rolling hills of the outlying areas, each neighborhood brings its own distinct beer-tasting experience to the table.
Downtown and Over-the-Rhine
In the heart of the city, Rhinegeist Brewery stands out with its stunning rooftop bar offering cityscape views and a wide selection of brews. Close by, Christian Moerlein Brewing Co. is another staple, with roots that trace back to the city's brewing heritage, located near the lively Findlay Market.
Covington and Northern Kentucky
Across the Ohio River is Covington, KY, home to Braxton Brewing Company. This brewery is a beacon of innovation in the Northern Kentucky craft beer community. Moerlein Lager House is also a significant presence here, bringing craft beer and dining right to the edge of The Banks.
Northside and Beyond
Urban Artifact specializes in unique and wild beers, situated in the eclectic neighborhood of Northside, while Listermann Brewing Company draws in crowds with its creative brews and community focus.
East Side Breweries
The East Side showcases spots like Mt. Carmel Brewing Company which maintains a reputation for traditional ales in a scenic historic setting. Little Miami Brewing Co. in Milford also provides a picturesque riverside ambience with their innovative craft beers.
West Side Sips
Not to be outdone, the West Side has West Side Brewing offering a wide variety with welcoming community vibes. Brink Brewing Co., known for small-batch artisanal beers, adds to the variety available on this side of town.
Outlying Areas Brewing Hubs
Further from the city center, Alexandria Brewing Company and Sonder Brewing in West Chester are creating waves with their unique offerings. Big Ash Brewing, bringing self-pour taps and diverse styles, contributes to the scene along with Happy 2 Brewing Co. in the vicinity.
Northern Row and Pendleton Offerings
Pendleton's Northern Row Brewery & Distillery provides a perfect combination of craft beers and spirits, contributing to the area's burgeoning reputation as a hotspot for quality drinks.
Cincinnati's Other Craft Beer Hubs
Throughout the city, other key players include Fifty West Brewing Company, with a focus on experience and tradition, and Third Eye Brewing Company, which has quickly become a local favorite for its insightful approach to brewing. Darkness Brewing and Paradise Brewing add more variety to Bellevue's local options.
Types of Craft Beers in Cincinnati
Cincinnati's craft beer scene boasts a diverse range of beers, from sours with real fruit to robust traditional brews and innovative seasonal offerings. Hop aficionados will also find a haven within the city's breweries, highlighting the city's multifaceted brewing personality.
Sours and Funky Flavors
Urban Artifact specializes in sour and fruity beers, often using real fruit to create unique and bold flavors. Their sours are a must-try for visitors seeking something out of the ordinary.
Traditional Lagers and Ales
Breweries like Moerlein Lager House pay homage to Cincinnati’s German heritage with their rich selection of traditional lagers and ales. Their offerings are a nod to classic styles, maintaining the authenticity and simplicity of these timeless brews.
Innovative and Seasonal Brews
MadTree Brewing pushes the boundaries with their innovative and seasonal brews, ensuring there's always something new to try. They're known for creative styles that cater to the changing seasons and diverse palates.
Craft Beer for Hop Lovers
Rhinegeist Brewery caters to hop lovers with a variety of IPAs and pale ales. Their mastery in hop-forward beers is evident in their balanced and aromatic creations, providing a bitter punch that hop enthusiasts seek.
Craft Beer Tasting Experiences
Cincinnati, Ohio boasts a vibrant craft beer scene, offering a diverse range of tasting experiences. From cozy taprooms to historic brewery tours, visitors can indulge in the city's rich brewing heritage and modern flavors.
Taprooms and Tastings
Cincinnati’s taprooms offer immersive experiences for beer aficionados. Moerlein Lager House is renowned, not just for its wide selection of beers but also for its picturesque location by the Ohio River and proximity to Smale Riverfront Park. Beer enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of local brews in settings ranging from classic taprooms to modern bars with extensive patios and outdoor beer gardens.
Rooftop Taprooms: Many breweries feature rooftop spaces providing scenic views of the cityscape.
Beer Gardens: Outdoor beer gardens are common, with some situated along the riverfront, creating a relaxing atmosphere.
Guided Tours and Brewery History
Guided tours in Cincinnati delve into the city's brewing past while sampling today's craft beer offerings. Historical tours often include a visit to the 19th-century underground lagering cellars, revealing a glimpse into the city’s brewing heritage.
Brewing Heritage Trail: Patrons can learn about historic breweries along this trail.
Cincy Brew Bus: Combines history and tasting, visiting multiple breweries in one tour.
Breweries with Unique Venues
Cincinnati's breweries are not just about the beer; they are destinations with unique character. Some feature repurposed spaces that blend the old with the new, retaining historical elements while serving contemporary craft beers.
Rooftop Bars: Offer panoramic city views and often feature a full-service bar.
Distinctive Taprooms: Set in historic buildings, they provide a unique ambiance that complements the beer tasting experience.
Events and Happy Hours
The city's breweries and taprooms host a variety of events and offer happy hours, providing opportunities to enjoy craft beers at special prices. These social occasions are great for experiencing new releases and seasonal brews.
Happy Hour Specials: Typically during weekday afternoons or early evenings.
Seasonal Events: Breweries may host events to celebrate new releases or beer festivals.
Brewery Amenities and Food Pairings
Exploring Cincinnati's craft breweries leads to discovering a variety of amenity offerings and exquisite food pairings that enhance the beer-tasting experience.
Brewery Eats
Many Cincinnati breweries pride themselves on a diverse selection of food that pairs exceptionally well with their beer. Wood-fired pizza is a staple at some establishments, offering a smoky and hearty complement to a hoppy IPA or a smooth lager. Patrons can expect to find a range of other culinary options, from gourmet burgers to artisanal cheeses, each thoughtfully curated to match the flavor profiles of the craft beers on tap.
Brewery Activities and Entertainment
Breweries in Cincinnati aren’t just about the beer; they often double as vibrant social hubs with a variety of activities and entertainment options. Some venues host live music, bringing local talent to the forefront. Others might offer bar games such as darts or shuffleboard, creating a lively atmosphere where visitors can enjoy their brews.
Family-Friendly Breweries
Families are welcomed at several breweries that understand the balance between adult leisure time and family life. These establishments often have a laid-back atmosphere with board games or open spaces where children can play, while adults can relax with a refreshing pint.
Breweries with Scenic Views
Positioned along the banks of the Ohio River and the Little Miami River, some breweries boast exceptional scenic views, enhancing the overall experience. Patrons can enjoy a cold one on a rooftop or riverside patio, taking in the sights of the cityscape or the serene flowing water. These spots are perfect for those looking to enjoy a beer with a view.
Community and Culture of Cincinnati Craft Beer
Cincinnati's craft beer scene is intertwining centuries-old brewing traditions with modern innovation. This vibrant tapestry is expressed through its numerous beer festivals, educational resources, and a distinct craft beer identity that reflects the city's history and community.
Local Beer Festivals
Cincinnati's calendar features several beer festivals that celebrate the local craft beer culture. Notably, events like Bockfest showcase not only the variety of bock beers but also contribute to the city's festive spirit, drawing large numbers of residents and visitors alike. Another key event, Cincinnati Beer Week, fosters a sense of community and collaboration among local breweries, bars, and beer enthusiasts, offering special tastings and limited-edition brews.
Homebrewing and Craft Beer Education
Homebrewing thrives in Cincinnati, supported by a strong network of supply stores and clubs like the Bloatarian Brewing League. The community's passion for craft beer is further nourished through educational programs and workshops, often hosted by local breweries or organizations. These initiatives help to maintain high-quality brewing standards and promote the sharing of knowledge and techniques among both amateur and professional brewers.
Cincinnati's Craft Beer Identity
Cincinnati's craft beer identity is characterized by a rich diversity of styles and a clear nod to its German heritage. Local breweries leverage traditional methods while embracing innovation. Establishments such as Rhinegeist Brewery and MadTree Brewing have become cultural hubs, offering not only a wide selection of craft beers but also serving as social gathering spaces that strengthen the bonds within the community.
With an impressive lineup of craft breweries and a collective spirit that celebrates its brewing heritage, Cincinnati continues to carve out its unique space in the American craft beer landscape.
Beyond Beer: Distilleries and Cider Houses
Cincinnati offers a diverse palate of tastes beyond the world of craft beer, with an array of distilleries and cider houses that cater to a variety of preferences.
Cincinnati Distilleries
Cincinnati's distillery scene is vibrant, with Northside Distilling Co. taking the spotlight. Known for its handcrafted spirits, it offers a selection of locally-produced liquors. Patrons can enjoy a tour and sample spirits ranging from corn whiskey to spiced rum. Another notable mention is Woodstone Creek, which prides itself on a slew of artisanal spirits such as Five Grain Bourbon, Single Malt Whisky, and Ohio's first commercial mead, complemented by a lineup of brandy and vodkas.
Local Cider and Alternative Brews
The cider scene in Cincinnati comes alive with offerings such as Cidergeist, launched by Rhinegeist – one of the region's most prominent breweries. It is distinguished by a rotation of year-round and limited-release ciders made from heirloom apples, available in cans and on draft.
Locations for Cidergeist:
7885 E. Kemper Road, Cincinnati
10 Fountain Square Plaza, Downtown Cincinnati
Each location provides an approachable introduction into the realm of hard ciders, characterizing the local culture's embrace of alternative brews alongside traditional beer offerings.
Visiting Cincinnati's Local Craft Beer Scene
Cincinnati, Ohio boasts a vibrant brewery culture with an array of accommodations and transportation options to enhance the experience. Travelers can explore craft beer maps and itineraries before departing with souvenirs and merchandise from local breweries.
Accommodations and Transportation
For those planning a craft beer adventure in Cincinnati, considering where to stay and how to get around is essential. Local accommodations range from boutique hotels to cozy AirBNB rentals, some even offering thematic stays like the unique lodging opportunity at a microbrewery with an outdoor beer garden.
When it comes to transportation, options include the convenient Cincy Brew Bus, which offers guided tours through the city's craft beer landmarks. For independent explorers, the city's public transport system provides access to the brewery districts, and ride-sharing services are readily available for safe and hassle-free travel.
Craft Beer Maps and Itineraries
Experience the local craft beer scene to its fullest with a well-planned itinerary. Craft beer maps are available to guide enthusiasts through Cincinnati's historic brewery sites and modern taprooms. These might include:
Rhinegeist Brewery: Known for its rooftop views and an assortment of beers
Other notable breweries where visitors can taste signature Cincinnati brews
Regional beer enthusiasts often organize tours that offer a curated selection of breweries over a set period, ranging from afternoon samplings to multi-day immersions.
Souvenirs and Craft Beer Merchandise
Taking home a piece of Cincinnati's craft beer heritage is an essential part of the experience. Visitors will find that many breweries offer a range of merchandise, including:
Apparel
Glassware
Growlers
Brewery gift shops are the go-to spots for those looking to purchase branded items to commemorate their Cincinnati craft beer journey.
Supporting Local: The Economic Impact of Craft Beer
The craft beer industry in Cincinnati plays a significant role in the economic landscape, aligning with trends observed across Ohio. The state's economy benefits greatly from the craft brewing sector, as evidenced by recent growth figures. Ohio craft breweries saw a surge in 2022, following a recovery from a dip in 2020 due to the pandemic.
Economic Output and Job Creation
Craft breweries are a boon to local economies, generating substantial economic output and providing thousands of jobs:
Economic Indicator Cincinnati Region Impact
Economic Output $1.3 billion
Job Creation Part of 8,295 statewide
In Cincinnati, craft beer not only supports local economies through direct sales but also through tourism, attracting enthusiasts to the area's rich tapestry of breweries.
Tax Revenue and Household Support
The fiscal contributions of Cincinnati’s craft breweries are impactful:
State and Local Taxes: Craft breweries contribute significantly to local and state tax revenues, aiding in public services funding.
Household Support: The craft beer industry supports the livelihoods of individuals and families, with thousands of households tied to its success.
Breweries in Cincinnati mirror the statewide growth of the Ohio craft beer industry, with the region dominating production and economic impact. This symbiotic relationship between breweries and community fosters a cycle of reinvestment and prosperity, underscoring the importance of supporting local craft beer makers.
The Future of Craft Beer in Cincinnati
Cincinnati’s craft beer industry, with a rich brewing heritage, is poised for continued innovation and growth. As these local breweries evolve, they maintain a balance between tradition and experimentation, catering to both connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
Market Trends: In line with national trends, Cincinnati’s breweries are expected to diversify their offerings. Limited releases and seasonal brews are becoming increasingly popular, crafting unique experiences and drawing in enthusiasts eager for new flavors.
Community Engagement: Breweries have become community hubs, offering more than just beer. Many feature events, food options, and pet-friendly patios, fueling a culture that supports local businesses. This trend is set to strengthen, with breweries reinforcing their role as neighborhood keystones.
Technological Advancements: Advancements in brewing technology and sustainable practices will likely be adopted by Cincinnati brewers. These improvements can lead to more consistent product quality and environmentally friendly operations, appealing to a market that values both.
Collaborations: Collaborative brews and cross-promotion among breweries enhance the sense of a united craft beer community. Such collaborations can lead to innovative products and shared customer bases, boosting both creativity and business growth.
Future Focus Areas Expected Developments
Product Diversity Seasonal and experimental brews
Consumer Experience Enhanced tasting rooms and community events
Sustainability Eco-friendly brewing practices
Collaboration Joint ventures and shared expertise
In conclusion, Cincinnati's craft beer scene is set to continue its dynamic evolution. Enthusiasts can look forward to a future that stays true to the city's deep brewing roots while embracing modern tastes and technologies.
