Livermore is the unofficial craft beer capital of Northern California! Livermore has become a major player in the craft beer scene, with nearly 20 craft breweries producing some of the most unique lagers and ales.
With our thorough research and expertise in the field, we have curated a list of the best Livermore breweries. One interesting finding is the use of experimental hops by Altamont Beer Works, infusing their flagship beers with a distinct and captivating taste.
So, join us as we explore the best breweries in Livermore, CA, and mention the fantastic brews that make this city a beer lover’s paradise. Here are the best breweries in Livermore.
- Fieldwork Brewing
- Shadow Puppet Brewing Company
- INC 82
- First Street Ale
- Altamont Beer Works
- Main Street Brewery
- Tap 25
- Beer Baron
- Bottletaps
10. Homegrown Hops Brewing
The Top 10 Breweries in Livermore
Here are the top breweries in Livermore.
1. Fieldwork Brewing
Image Source: Fieldwork Brewing
Fieldwork Brewing has become a favorite of Livermore beer enthusiasts since opening in 2015. Initially founded in Berkeley, Fieldwork Brewing has grown into a regional craft brewery with 7 taprooms throughout Northern California.
The Livermore location boasts an impressive selection of IPAs, stouts, sours, and more. Notable artisan beers include their new brand finders & keepers, Hazy Train IPA, and Chocolate & Coconut Stout.
Fieldwork has received numerous awards for its craft beers, including a gold medal at the 2019 Great American Beer Festival for its Pulp IPA.
Read More: The 10 Best Beers For Beef Stew
2. Shadow Puppet Brewing
Image Source: Shadow Puppet Brewing
Shadow Puppet Brewing, located on Airway Boulevard, focuses on brewing small batches of high-quality beer. The brewery takes its name from the ancient art of shadow puppetry. This involves manipulating cut-out figures to tell a story.
Notable beers include the Shadow Boxer IPA and the Dark of the Moon Stout. Shadow Puppet has received numerous accolades for its beers, including gold medals at the California State Fair and the San Diego International Beer Festival.
3. INC 82
Image Source: INC 82
INC 82, located on North Livermore Avenue, is a fast-growing brewery specializing in Belgian-style beers. The name INC 82 is a tribute to Dublin City, with 82 indicating when the city became incorporated in 1982.
Notable beers include the golden state wheat bear, SPF 50 Blonde Ale, IPA, Imperial/double dark, and more. The brewery’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship has earned it a growing fan base and positive reviews.
4. First Street Ale House
Image Source: First Street Ale House
First Street Ale House is a prominent fixture in the Livermore craft beer scene. Established in 2004, this downtown brewpub offers an inviting atmosphere for beer enthusiasts to enjoy a pint or two.
With a rotating selection of beers on tap, including their house-brewed creations, First Street Ale House caters to a wide range of tastes. Notable offerings include Hoptown Pale Ale, Trippin’ Wheat Hefeweizen, and Old Diablo Barleywine. In addition to its impressive beer menu, the establishment also features a menu of delicious pub fare, making it a great spot to indulge in food and beer.
Read More: The Best Maple Syrup Beer: Top 10
5. Altamont Beer Works
Image Source: Altamont Beer Works
Altamont Beer Works, located on Research Drive, is a family-owned craft brewery founded in 2012.
They specialize in hop-forward brews and offer a range of IPAs, including the popular Hella Hoppy Double IPA and Maui Waui IPA. In addition, Altamont Beer Works embraces experimental brewing techniques, resulting in unique and sought-after beers.
Altamont has received numerous awards for its beers, including a gold medal at the 2019 Great American Beer Festival for its Maui Waui Pale Ale. You shouldn’t miss what this family-owned craft brewery has to offer.
6. Main Street Brewery
Image Source: Main Street Brewery
Main Street Brewery, located on First Street, is one of the oldest breweries in Livermore, having opened in 1990. The brewery has diverse beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers. Notable beers include the Main Street Brown Ale and the IPA 680.
Main Street Brewery has won several awards for its beers, including a gold medal at the California State Fair for its Main Street Brown Ale.
Read More: The Best Low Carb Sour Beer: Top 10
7. Tap 25
Image Source: Tap 25
Tap 25 is a popular beer bar and taproom located in downtown Livermore. With its extensive selection of 25 rotating taps, this establishment offers a wide range of craft beers from local and regional breweries. From hoppy IPAs and refreshing pale ales to rich stouts and sour beers, Tap 25 caters to every beer lover’s preferences.
With its laid-back and welcoming atmosphere, Tap 25 is a favorite gathering spot for beer enthusiasts looking to explore a variety of craft beers under one roof.
8. Beer Baron
Image Source: Beer Baron
Beer Baron, located in the heart of downtown Livermore, offers a unique and diverse beer selection. With over 30 rotating taps, they showcase a variety of craft beers from local and regional breweries.
In addition to its impressive tap list, Beer Baron offers a full-service restaurant with a menu designed to complement their beer offerings. Notable beers include the Beer Baron IPA and the Beer Baron Blonde Ale.
9. Bottletaps
Image Source: Bottletaps
Bottletaps is not just a brewery but a craft beer destination in Livermore. It combines a taproom, a bottle shop, and a local beer garden to provide a unique experience for beer lovers. With an impressive selection of craft beers on tap, including offerings from local and regional breweries, Bottletaps caters to a wide range of tastes.
They also offer a curated bottle selection, allowing customers to take their favorite beers home. The laid-back and friendly atmosphere and dedication to promoting local breweries make Bottletaps a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts in Livermore.
Read More: The 10 Best Beers For Steak And Ale Pie
10. Homegrown Hops Brewing
Image source: Homegrown Hops Brewing
Homegrown Hops Brewing is a small, locally owned brewery that embodies the spirit of community and the passion for craft beer. Founded by friends and beer enthusiasts, Homegrown Hops Brewing focuses on using locally sourced ingredients and supporting local farmers.
Notable offerings include Hoppy Harvest IPA, Farmhouse Hops Saison, and Fresh Hop Pale Ale. Each beer is carefully crafted to bring out the vibrant and distinct qualities of the hops, providing a sensory experience for beer enthusiasts.
Brewery Tours and Tastings in Livermore
Not many breweries offer tours in Livermore, but some of the lucky sports are.
Fieldwork Brewing: Fieldwork Brewing offers tours of their Livermore facility on Saturdays and Sundays. Their tours include their own tasting paddle of their current beers on tap.
INC 82: While INC 82 does not offer regular brewery tours, they occasionally hold open houses and special events that include tours of their facility.
Shadow Puppet Brewing: Shadow Puppet Brewing does not advertise regular brewery tours on its website but often hosts special events and fresh beer releases. These events provide a chance to taste their unique, tasty brews and engage with the brewery team from their tasting room. Watch their website or social media for special events and offerings updates.
Altamont Beer Works. They offer tours on Saturdays at 12 PM, 2 PM, and 4 PM for $5 per person. Visitors can also taste their award-winning beer in the taproom or outdoor garden.
Conclusion
Livermore boasts a vibrant and diverse craft beer scene, with each of the top 10 breweries offering unique charm and exceptional brews. Whether you’re seeking hop-forward IPAs, rich stouts, or traditional ales, these breweries deliver a wide range of flavors and styles to satisfy every palate.
