Kent, WA Local Craft Beer Guide

Your Ultimate Brewery Roadmap

Kent, Washington, is an emerging hub for craft beer enthusiasts, boasting a variety of local breweries that offer an array of unique and flavorful beers. Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, a region revered for its craft beer scene, Kent brings its own distinct charm to the table. The city is home to several establishments where both locals and visitors alike can savor the rich tapestry of hops and malts that define the local brewing culture.

The selection of craft beers in Kent ranges from traditional favorites to innovative brews that push the boundaries of taste and creativity. Establishments like Crft Beers, Airways Brewing, and Four Horsemen Brewery have set the bar high with their commitment to quality and taste. These venues not only serve as social hubs where the community gathers but also stand as testament to the city's passion for supporting local businesses and artisans.

For those eager to delve into the world of Kent's craft beer, options are plentiful and diverse. The Brewmaster's Taproom and Imbibe Bottle House & Taproom provide a curated experience, offering a rotation of local and regional beers that cater to every palate. Whether looking for a bold IPA, a smooth lager or experimental ales infused with local ingredients, Kent's craft beer scene is a dynamic landscape waiting to be explored.

The Rise of Craft Beer in Kent, WA

Kent, Washington, mirrors the broader American trend of embracing craft beers, with a local scene that has flourished significantly in recent years. As part of the United States' craft beer movement, local breweries and taprooms in Kent carve out distinct identities through bold flavors and community-focused experiences.

Local Craft Beer Venues:

• The Brewmaster's Taproom: Offers a diverse and ever-changing selection of craft beers.

• Airways Brewing: Known for the Bistro & Beer Garden, it’s a community hub that elevates the craft beer experience with locally-sourced ingredients.

• CRFT Beers: A storefront that not only provides an array of craft beers but also serves as a testament to the region's demand for specialty brews.

Kent Craft Beer Highlights:

• Local Ingredients: Four Horsemen Brewery boasts beers made with Washington-grown ingredients, showcasing local pride.

• Brewery Growth: Logan Brewing Company and Half Lion Public House are examples of the growing craft beer enterprises contributing to Kent's vibrant ale trail.

• Community Presence: Meeker Street Bar & Grill, among others, integrates craft beer into the fabric of Kent’s social dining scene.

The region's craft beer enthusiasm is not an isolated phenomenon. It aligns with a nationwide appreciation, with states like Pennsylvania and California leading in production, and Kent’s breweries contributing their share to Washington’s craft beer presence. The growth in Kent’s craft beer offerings reflects a demand for quality, variety, and regional character, as residents and visitors alike seek out unique and locally-crafted ales and lagers.

Kent's Top Local Breweries

Kent, Washington, boasts a vibrant craft beer scene with several breweries that have carved out distinct reputations for quality and creativity.

Airways Brewing

Airways Brewing stands as a beacon for beer enthusiasts. With multiple locations, including The Bistro in Downtown Kent and a Beer Garden, the brewery offers a diverse selection of brews crafted to perfection. They often feature seasonally inspired beers alongside their flagship offerings, providing patrons with a taste of Kent's local flair.

Other Notable Breweries

Besides Airways Brewing, Kent has a variety of noteworthy breweries contributing to its craft beer acclaim:

• Four Horsemen Brewery: A local favorite, known for their commitment to using Washington-grown ingredients. This brewery prides itself on creating outstanding beers that reflect the local terroir.

  • Address: Kent, Washington 98042

  • Contact: (253) 486-6155

• Dubtown Brewing Company: Gaining popularity for their handcrafted ales and inviting taproom atmosphere.

• Rail Hop’n Brewing: Offers a unique range of beers with innovative and traditional styles that cater to all tastes.

Each brewery in Kent provides a distinctive experience, with an emphasis on high-quality ingredients, community involvement, and a passion for brewing.

Guide to Brewery Visits

When planning a visit to the breweries in Kent, WA, patrons should consider the best times to embark on their craft beer journey and what unique experiences each establishment offers.

Best Times to Visit

Visitors will find that most Kent breweries have optimal visiting hours that align with the late afternoon to evening, typically starting around 3 PM to 2 AM. It's advisable to check individual brewery hours for precise times, as they may vary. Those looking for a vibrant atmosphere with more crowd interaction should aim for weekend evenings, while weekdays can offer a more laid-back experience.

Certain breweries in Kent also feature beer gardens, an excellent choice for a sunny afternoon. Beer enthusiasts can bask in the Pacific Northwest's mild weather while enjoying a diverse selection of craft beers in an outdoor setting.

What to Expect

Breweries in Kent offer an array of experiences coupled with an assortment of local craft beers. Upon entering a brewery, patrons can expect:

• Beer Selection: A variety of handcrafted beers, often including a mix of year-round staples and seasonal specialties.

• Food Options: Many breweries boast menus with food made from scratch using local ingredients, designed to pair perfectly with their beer offerings.

• Atmosphere: Most breweries present a friendly, informal atmosphere, with some showcasing airy taprooms with views, creating a welcoming environment for both newcomers and seasoned beer aficionados.

Patrons should anticipate a knowledge-sharing environment, as staff are typically eager to educate customers about the brewing process, the flavor profiles of different beers, and suggestions for pairing food and beer.

Local Ingredients and Sustainability

In Kent, WA, the craft beer scene places a significant emphasis on local ingredients and sustainability. Breweries are investing in practices that not only enhance the flavor of their beers but also contribute positively to the environment.

Sourcing Practices

Breweries in Kent prioritize local sourcing for their ingredients, which involves collaborating with regional farmers and producers. North Water Brewing Co. exemplifies this trend, emphasizing the use of local ingredients to create a more sustainable product and support the local economy. They, along with other local breweries, aim to source hops, grains, and other essentials from within the state or neighboring regions whenever possible. This not only reduces transportation emissions but also fosters a unique regional flavor that's signature to Kent's craft beers.

• Ingredient Sources:

  • Hops: Local hop farms in the Yakima Valley

  • Grains: Washington State grain producers

  • Additives: Regional orchards and herb gardens

Environmental Impact

The environmental impact of brewing is a consideration taken seriously by Kent's craft beer industry. Sustainable practices are a cornerstone for these breweries, with measures such as:

• Energy efficiency: Incorporating energy-saving processes in brewing and facility management

• Eco-friendly packaging: Using recyclable materials and reducing waste

• Renewable energy sources: Some breweries, like those following the example of a Booneville, California brewery, aim to use solar energy to meet a portion of their power needs.

By focusing on these practices, breweries seek to minimize their ecological footprint. Challenges do exist, including tackling the limited availability of certain ingredients and managing the cost implications of sustainable practices, yet local breweries are consistently innovating to overcome these hurdles responsibly.

Local Craft Beer Varieties

Kent, Washington's craft beer scene showcases a diverse array of local brews, featuring both year-round favorites and inventive seasonal releases. Patrons can expect a commitment to quality and a celebration of local ingredients.

Popular Styles

IPA (India Pale Ale): The craft beer lineup in Kent often features IPAs, known for their hoppy bitterness and aromatic qualities. A local favorite includes selections from Four Horsemen Brewery, where they emphasize Washington Grown ingredients for a true local taste.

Stout: Dark beer enthusiasts will find rich and creamy stouts, often with undertones of chocolate and coffee. Breweries like Rail Hop’n Brewing offer a rotating selection that typically includes this full-bodied style.

Seasonal Specialties

Summer Ales: Light and refreshing, summer ales make a seasonal appearance, catering to the warmer weather with citrus or fruity notes. These often include a wheat base and a crisp finish.

Winter Warmers: In the colder months, craft beer aficionados can find winter warmers - robust beers with a higher alcohol content designed to provide a warming effect. These may include festive spices and a malty backbone.

Pairing Food and Craft Beer

The art of pairing craft beers with delicious food has transformed the dining experience. In Kent, WA, both bistros and home culinary enthusiasts can elevate their meals with the right craft beer selections.

Bistro Options

In the bustling bistros of Kent, WA, patrons savor the harmony between local craft beers and bistro cuisine. It's common to see menus designed to highlight this interplay, such as:

• Hoppy Beers: Ideal with spicy dishes, their bitterness can balance heat, such as a Pale Ale paired with fiery buffalo wings (What wine goes well with buffalo wings?).

• Light Ales: These often complement the delicate flavors of salads, with Blonde Ales enhancing citrus dressings and goat cheese toppings.

Brewmasters Taproom and The Brick Kitchen + Lounge exemplify establishments where beer enthusiasts can explore such pairings.

Home Pairing Tips

At home, the beer connoisseur has the freedom to explore pairings with a personal touch. Consider these guidelines:

• Fried Foods (What wine goes well with fried foods?): A crisp Pilsner cuts through the richness of fried favorites, cleansing the palate.

• Roasted Meats (What wine goes well with roasted meats?): The caramel notes of a Brown Ale match beautifully with the savory depth of roasted meats.

Assembling a chart or list to reference during meal prep can be a handy tool to craft these combinations. The rise in popularity of craft beers means a variety of local options are readily available for such pairings in Kent, WA.

Events and Community Engagement

Kent, Washington plays host to a variety of beer-related events throughout the year, fostering a thriving craft beer community that brings enthusiasts together. These events range from annual beer festivals to educational brewery tours.

Beer Tasting Events

Kent Craft Beer Fest: An annual highlight for beer aficionados is the Kent Craft Beer Fest. Scheduled for May 20, the 2023 iteration promises a diverse selection of local brews. It features:

• VIP access from 1:00 PM

• General admission from 2:00-6:00 PM

• Participation from over 20 local breweries

• An array of food trucks offering culinary delights

This event not only showcases the rich tapestry of Kent’s craft beer culture but also contributes to the vibrancy of the local community.

Brewery Tours

Local Brewery Tours:

Many of Kent's breweries open their doors for tours, providing insight into their brewing processes and offering samplings of their latest creations. Tours give enthusiasts a behind-the-scenes look at the craft and are a fantastic way to support local businesses. Notable Kent breweries that may offer tours include:

• Airways Brewing

• The Brewmaster’s Taproom

While Seattle and Spokane also have their own brewing scenes, Kent's brewery tours stand out for their intimate nature and direct engagement with the region’s craft beer community.

Craft Beer Shopping Guide

Kent, WA offers diverse options for beer enthusiasts seeking quality craft beers, from local brick-and-mortar stores to online platforms catering to every palate.

Local Beer Shops

Craft Beer Stores in Kent:

• Crft Beers: A local favorite with a wide selection of craft brews.

• Total Wine & More: Known for a vast inventory of beers from around the world.

• Imbibe Bottle House & Taproom: Offers a cozy environment to purchase and try new beers.

• The Brewmaster's Taproom: A go-to spot for tasting an array of craft beers.

Local Breweries:

• Airways Brewing: A brewery and bistro with its own crafted beer selection.

• Four Horsemen Brewery: Smaller-scale brewery offering unique and flavorful beers.

Online Resources

Recommended Online Platforms:

• Tavour: An app that allows customers to buy curated craft beers and have them shipped to their home.

• North Water Brewing Co.: Focuses on sustainability, offering local delivery and pickup options for their craft beers.

These outlets and platforms provide a robust selection for craft beer shoppers, whether they prefer to browse in person or online.

Contact and Support Local Breweries

Visitors and residents in Kent, WA who have a taste for craft beer can support local breweries in various ways. Understanding the importance of community, these establishments welcome enthusiasts to explore their offerings and reach out for more information.

Four Horsemen Brewery stands out with its commitment to using Washington-grown ingredients. They welcome inquiries and encourage beer lovers to connect.

Brewery Contact Information

Four Horsemen Brewery 30221 148th Avenue Southeast, Kent, WA 98042
(253) 486-6155
Email: manager@fourhorsemen.beer

Beer aficionados seeking a comprehensive experience can also visit other local craft beer establishments such as Airways Brewing, The Brewmaster’s Taproom, and Rail Hop’n Brewing. Each brewery may have its own unique contact methods and visiting hours, making it important to check in advance.

Local brewpubs often offer growler fills, tasting events, and tours. Patrons are encouraged to support these local businesses through direct patronage and by participating in events that showcase the craft beer community's spirit.

To further the local beer culture and ensure the growth of Washington's breweries, individuals can join community efforts like the Washington Brewers Guild. This organization often provides resources, advocacy, and events designed to promote the local craft beer industry.

By contacting these breweries, joining their events, and frequenting their taprooms, enthusiasts contribute to the sustainability and success of the craft beer scene in Kent, WA.