Nashville, TN Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Ultimate Directory to Artisanal Brews
Nashville, Tennessee, renowned for its vibrant music and rich cultural history, has crafted yet another tapestry of local flavor through its burgeoning craft beer scene. This Southern city's beer culture reflects its eclectic spirit, with a diverse array of breweries that offer a wide range of styles and tastes. The local craft beer landscape in Nashville provides residents and visitors alike with a unique tasting journey, characterized by a strong sense of community and a commitment to quality and innovation.
The breweries in Nashville are not just places to sip on a hoppy IPA or a smooth stout; they are social hubs where people come together to enjoy live music, food pairings, and special events. These establishments prioritize eco-friendly brewing methods and embrace the local ethos, seamlessly integrating into Nashville's reputation for southern hospitality. With each brewery boasting its own identity and specialty, the craft beer scene in Music City promises an indulgent experience for connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
The popularity of the craft beer movement in Nashville is evident in the range of available offerings, from classic ales and lagers to more adventurous brews featuring local ingredients and experimental methods. This has established Nashville not only as a destination for music lovers but also as a haven for craft beer enthusiasts seeking quality, variety, and a taste of Tennessee's artisanal craftsmanship.
The History of Nashville's Craft Beer Movement
Nashville, Tennessee, has become a significant player in the American craft beer scene. The journey of Nashville's craft beer started well before the term 'craft beer' entered the local lexicon. Historically, the city has a brewing past that dates back to the early 19th century, when German immigrants introduced their brewing techniques.
By the mid-20th century, most traditional brewing had ceased, with only a few large-scale operations surviving. The renaissance of Nashville's beer culture began in earnest in the 1980s and '90s, aligning with the national craft beer movement. Local entrepreneurs and beer enthusiasts started to open small-scale breweries, focusing on flavor, quality, and traditional brewing methods.
Key Milestones:
1980s-90s: Revival of local brewing with small-scale operations.
Early 2000s: A surge in the number of craft breweries.
2010s-Present: Nashville's craft beer industry becomes a significant tourism draw.
Nashville brewers often draw from the city's rich music and cultural heritage to create their unique brand identities. They have forged a beer culture that stands out for its diversity and innovation, earning recognition at events like the Great American Beer Festival.
Craft beer has grown into a multi-billion dollar industry within America, and Nashville, while not the largest producer, prides itself on a high concentration of artisanal breweries that reflect the city's creativity and community spirit. Visitors and locals alike now have a broad array of local beer options – from stouts and ales to lagers and seasonal specials – highlighting the successful continuation of the city's brewing history into the modern craft beer movement.
Brewery Highlights in Nashville
Nashville's craft beer scene is a tapestry of unique flavors and innovative brewing techniques. This guide will navigate through East Nashville’s artisanal offerings, the eclectic brewery selection in The Gulch and Germantown, the diverse experiences in South Nashville, and the local favorites in West Nashville and its surroundings.
East Nashville Breweries
East Nashville is known for its artistic vibe and has become a hub for craft beer enthusiasts. Southern Grist Brewing offers an array of experimental beers that have become local favorites. Another notable establishment is East Nashville Beer Works, where community and sustainability are as important as their range of beer. Bearded Iris Brewing specializes in hop-forward ales, with a reputation for their New England-style IPAs.
The Gulch & Germantown Gems
In the trendy neighborhoods of The Gulch and Germantown, craft beer aficionados find a mix of innovation and tradition. Yazoo Brewing Co, a pioneer in Nashville's craft beer movement, continues to produce beloved classics. Meanwhile, Jackalope Brewing Company charms visitors with its imaginative brews and inviting taproom.
Brewing in South Nashville
South Nashville's breweries offer a blend of traditional styles and bold experimentation. Tennessee Brew Works utilizes eco-friendly methods to craft their beers, which can be enjoyed in their two-story taproom. Black Abbey Brewing Company takes inspiration from Belgian monastic brewing traditions to create their distinctive craft offerings.
West Nashville and Surroundings
Breweries in West Nashville and its surrounding areas provide a mix of atmospheres, from laid-back to lively. Tailgate Brewery has established itself with a wide selection of beers and a welcoming space for social gatherings. Crazy Gnome Brewery brings creative and flavorful beers to the community. Fat Bottom Brewing has carved out a niche with bold flavors and a modern, spacious taproom. Harding House Brewing Co. remains a gem in this region with small-batch brews that reflect the spirit of Nashville.
Popular Beer Styles in Nashville
Nashville's craft beer scene offers a vibrant range of flavors catering to a wide palate. The local breweries take pride in crafting beers that reflect both traditional styles and innovative approaches, ensuring every taste preference is met.
IPAs and Pale Ales
Nashville has an evident fondness for IPAs and Pale Ales, with these styles frequently featured at local breweries. Bearded Iris Brewing stands out in this category, known for their aromatic and hop-forward selections that often display a balance between bitter and fruity notes. Their range of IPAs and DIPAs showcases the versatility of these beer styles, from the crisp and refreshing flavors of a classic American Pale Ale to the more intense, robust profiles of double IPAs.
Stouts and Porters
For those who have a penchant for darker brews, Stouts and Porters offer a rich and indulgent experience. Nashville's Blackstone Brewing is known for their stouts that range from sweet and creamy to bold and complex. Their versions often include notes of coffee, chocolate, and caramel, making them an excellent pairing with the city's famed hot chicken or a dessert of your choice.
Sour and Wild Ales
Sour and Wild Ales are gaining traction among Nashville's adventurous drinkers. Breweries like Embrace the Funk focus on these tart and funky styles, which can vary widely in flavor. These beers might encompass earthy, barnyard qualities or present bright and tangy profiles that awaken the palate. Sour ales are perfect for those looking to explore beyond the more common beer varieties.
Local Specialties
Nashville's breweries also put their spin on traditional beer styles, creating Local Specialties that are unique to the Music City. From smooth and crisp Cream Ales to the refreshing wheat notes of Hefeweizen, and the rich, malty character of an American Brown Ale, there is always something new to discover. Local specialties may not always fit neatly into classic style categories, but they often represent the creativity and spirit of Nashville's craft beer community.
Taproom Experiences
Nashville's taprooms provide a multi-faceted experience, combining craft beer with entertainment, local cuisine, and community events. Visitors and locals alike can explore a range of atmospheres, from vibrant live music shows to casual trivia nights.
Live Music and Entertainment
In Nashville, taprooms often double as prime venues for live music and entertainment. Establishments like 12 South Taproom and Grill not only offer an extensive selection of local beers but also host musicians, adding a soulful soundtrack to the craft beer experience. Patrons can enjoy the harmonious blend of hops and tunes, a true testament to Nashville's musical roots. The presence of live performances creates an energetic atmosphere that is both engaging for visitors seeking the city's famous music scene and comforting for locals looking for a relaxing night out.
Food and Beer Pairings
Visitors to Nashville taprooms can indulge in a dynamic range of food options, thoughtfully paired with local beers. Burgers, pizza, and other pub fare are staples, often using regional ingredients to add a special touch to both the food and beer being served. 12 South Taproom and Grill, for example, showcases an array of food and beer pairings that enhance the flavor profiles of their craft offerings. The focus on pairing quality food with exceptional beer elevates the taproom experience, allowing both foodies and beer aficionados to discover new taste sensations.
Events and Community
The modern taproom is more than just a place to drink; it's a social hub where the spirit of community thrives. Regular events like trivia nights at places such as Monday Night Brewing provide an opportunity for social engagement and friendly competition. During the pandemic, many taprooms adapted to maintain a sense of community, hosting virtual events and safe in-person gatherings. These events cement taprooms as integral parts of the local fabric, fostering connections and creating memorable experiences for patrons.
By attending various events or simply enjoying a casual beer tasting, visitors and locals participate in a tradition that transcends the pint glass and speaks to the heart of Nashville's craft beer culture.
Nashville's Craft Beer Community
Nashville’s craft beer scene is a vibrant tapestry, reflecting a commitment to collaboration and a spirit of innovation. Visitors and locals find themselves immersed in a culture where the love for finely crafted beer is palpable, supported by initiatives that promote sustainability and community-driven projects.
Collaborative Projects
Sylvan Supply and the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood have emerged as central hubs for collaboration among Nashville's breweries. The cooperative spirit here fuels ventures like Barrique Brewing and Blending, which is renowned for its unique beer derived from a fusion of traditional and inventive brewing methods. Likewise, Southern Grist Brewing Co. often teams up with local businesses, bringing an eclectic range of flavors to the taps, often inspired by the community's palate.
Sustainability and Innovation
Basil Ryeman, situated in Nashville’s ever-evolving landscape, prioritizes sustainable brewing practices, marrying eco-friendly processes with the creation of exceptional beer. Meanwhile, Living Waters Brewing showcases innovation through its coffee program, infusing craft brews with nuanced coffee notes, catering to both beer and coffee connoisseurs. Their commitment to sustainability is further evident in their choice of ingredients and energy-efficient operations, setting a standard for environmental consciousness within the craft beer industry.
Brewery Tours and Beer Tastings
Nashville, Tennessee, offers a variety of brewery tours and beer tasting experiences that cater to both casual visitors and connoisseurs alike. The local craft beer scene is vibrant, with numerous establishments showcasing a diverse range of styles and flavors that are sure to appeal to any palate.
Highlight Tours:
Trolley Brewery Loops: Visitors can enjoy unlimited rides on a vintage trolley, making it easy to hop on and off at different breweries throughout the day.
All-Inclusive Pub Crawls: These tours often include a selection of moonshine, cocktails, and craft beer, providing a well-rounded tasting experience.
Golf Cart Tours: A unique way to explore Nashville's breweries and distilleries while enjoying the city's sights.
Selected Breweries:
Tennessee Brew Works: Known for its finely crafted beer and visible brewing operations.
Music Venue Breweries: Some venues couple live music with their own signature beers, offering a true Nashville experience.
Beer Selection:
Interest in both traditional and innovative beer offerings ensures that breweries in Nashville produce a variety of styles. From stouts and IPAs to seasonal ales and lagers, the selection is broad and frequently rotated to feature new and experimental brews.
Visitor Experience:
Education: Brewers often share insights into the brewing process, catering to those keen to learn more about craft beer making.
Ambiance: Brewery tours allow visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship behind the beer in an environment that celebrates local culture.
Visitors are encouraged to ask questions, engage with brewery staff and fellow beer enthusiasts, and take the opportunity to discover beers that might become new favorites.
Craft Beer And Local Cuisine
Nashville's craft beer scene complements its culinary delights, providing a harmonious experience for both beer aficionados and food lovers. From the fiery kick of hot chicken to the tang of pickles, local breweries offer a diverse range of beers to pair with Nashville's iconic dishes.
Pairing with Nashville's Cuisine
When indulging in Nashville's beloved hot chicken, one should select a beer that can stand up to and soothe the heat. Local ales with a hint of sweetness or a refreshing lager tend to be excellent choices. The Filling Station holds a variety of craft beers that can enhance the flavors of Nashville's spicy food options, ensuring a balanced tasting adventure.
For a complex pairing, diners can opt for a tart, hoppy IPAs from Honky Tonk Brewing Co. to cut through the richness of Southern cuisine. Sour beers or a crisp pilsner can complement the acidity and crunch of pickles, a common accompaniment to many local dishes.
Brewpubs and Restaurant Breweries
Brewpubs blend the production of fine craft beers with expertly crafted menus, allowing for an integrated dining and tasting experience. At these venues, chefs and brewmasters often collaborate to create pairings that highlight both the food and beer.
Restaurant breweries often have an advantage in that their menus are specifically designed to match their beer offerings. This includes not only pairing suggestions, but also dishes that incorporate their house brews, adding a unique depth to the flavors of both the beer and the food.
Craft Beer Retail Shops and Distribution
In the heart of Nashville, The Filling Station stands out as a renowned destination for beer enthusiasts seeking a rich selection of craft beers. With two prominent locations, one in the vibrant 12 South district and another offering its bounty in East Nashville, this retailer provides a plethora of choices ranging from local to rare finds.
Craft Brewed, another specialty beer retailer, is known for its curated variety of local and artisanal craft beers. This shop on 8th Avenue South is celebrated for its rotating selection, which invites patrons to explore a wide range of styles and flavors.
These retailers exemplify Nashville's commitment to craft beer culture, acting as hubs for both experts and newcomers alike to discover and enjoy the finest brews the region has to offer. Customers benefit from knowledgeable staff who can guide them through their robust inventory.
Retailer Location Specialty
The Filling Station 12 South, East Nashville Diverse selection, growlers
Craft Brewed 8th Avenue South Rotating local and craft beers, tasting room experience
Nashville's distribution scene is equally formidable, with entities like TN Craft Distributors accelerating the reach of craft beer. Their work has not only been pivotal in expanding local brand presence but also in fostering business growth, as evidenced by the commendations from their partners.
The craft beer landscape in Nashville is a testament to the city's passion for quality and variety, with retail shops and distributors like The Filling Station and Craft Brewed providing an accessible and enriching experience for all beer lovers.
Events and Festivals
Nashville's dynamic craft beer scene offers an array of events and festivals that cater to both locals and visitors. These gatherings showcase a diverse beer selection, trivia, and opportunities to experience the city's unique taprooms and breweries.
Annual Beer Celebrations
Music City Brewer's Fest
Date: July 14
Location: GEODIS Park
Time: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Ticket Price: $20-$79
Nashville Predators Craft Beer Festival
Date: August 11
Location: Bridgestone Arena
Time: 6:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Ticket Price: $50-$120
These annual events are highly anticipated, featuring a vast selection of craft beers and attracting visitors from all over.
Local Beer Events
Apart from the large-scale annual events, a variety of smaller local beer events are held throughout the year. These events are perfect for those looking to dive into Nashville's craft beer culture, often hosted in the taprooms and breweries that dot the city. They offer guests the chance to enjoy exclusive brews, participate in beer trivia nights, and celebrate the community spirit that is an essential part of the craft beer experience.
Nashville Rosé Festival
Date: May 18
Time: 3:00 PM
Location: 700 Woodland Street
While not specifically a craft beer event, the Nashville Rosé Festival illustrates the versatility and collaborative spirit of Nashville's alcohol-related festivals. Visitors should check local listings for up-to-date information on these and other beer-centric gatherings throughout the year.
Craft Beer's Economic Impact
Nashville, the vibrant heart of Tennessee, has embraced the craft beer movement with enthusiasm, giving rise to a thriving sector that contributes significantly to the local economy. The city is home to an array of breweries offering a kaleidoscope of flavors, attracting both connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
Tourism Boost Craft breweries have become an integral part of Nashville’s tourist appeal. Visitors are drawn to the unique experiences offered by these establishments, from tasting rooms with live music to brewery tours. This influx of visitors supports not just the breweries but also local hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Revenue and Jobs Craft beer in Tennessee, including Nashville, has seen rapid growth, with over 140 breweries bringing in substantial revenue and creating jobs in the region. The industry's expansion has a domino effect, fostering growth in related sectors such as agriculture, distribution, and retail.
Economic Contributions The financial impact of craft beer in Nashville manifests in several ways:
Sales Revenue: Craft beer sales bolster the local economy, with Tennessee's breweries contributing millions of dollars annually.
Employment: Breweries provide employment opportunities, from brewing to service roles.
Taxes: Breweries generate tax revenues for the state, supporting public services and infrastructure.
Community Growth Beyond economics, Nashville's craft breweries contribute to community development. They serve as social hubs where locals gather, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
In summary, Nashville's craft beer industry is more than just hops and barley; it is a robust economic force that stimulates growth, supports tourism, and enhances the community's vibrancy.
Challenges and the Future of Craft Beer in Nashville
Nashville has seen a resurgence in its craft beer scene post-pandemic, with local breweries innovating and adapting despite challenges such as sustainability and weather-related disasters.
Market Trends and Predictions
The craft beer market in Nashville is experiencing significant growth, with breweries like Bearded Iris and Wiseacre Brewing Co. reporting sales increases of 42% and 32% respectively. The adoption of sustainability practices is not just a trend but a long-term movement within the industry. Breweries are increasingly employing eco-friendly methods in production and operations, indicating a strong future for green initiatives.
Sales Growth: Post-pandemic recovery has showcased the resilience of Nashville's craft breweries.
Sustainable Practices: Breweries are committing to long-term eco-friendly production methods.
Adapting to Changes
Nashville's breweries have faced more than their fair share of adversity, weathering not only the global pandemic but also rebuilding from natural disasters such as tornadoes. They've emerged stronger, often harnessing innovative brewing techniques and technology to create novel beer experiences and further solidify the local craft beer identity.
Innovation: Breweries are using technological advancements in brewing to create unique flavors and experiences.
Community Resilience: The local beer scene has shown the ability to rebound and unify in the face of adversities such as the pandemic and tornado aftermath.
