Vermont is known for its stunning landscapes, maple syrup, and outdoor recreational activities. However, it’s also home to a burgeoning craft beer scene worth exploring. Southern Vermont, in particular, boasts a plethora of exceptional craft breweries that will delight all beer lovers.
This article looks at the best breweries in southern Vermont. As experts in craft beer, we have explored the region’s diverse offerings, uncovering fascinating details about each brewery.
Among the hidden gems we discovered, one brewery stands out for its inventive use of local ingredients, crafting beers that embody the essence of Vermont’s natural bounty. We have all you’re looking for.
Here is a list of what we’re going to look at:
- Hill Farmstead Brewery
- Foam Brewers
- The Alchemist
- Lost Nation Brewing
- Zero Gravity Craft Brewery
- Hermit Thrush Brewery
- Von Trapp Brewery
- Long Trail Brewing Co.
- Lawson’s Finest Liquids
- Four Quarters Brewing
The Top 10 Breweries in Southern Vermont
Southern Vermont is home to some of the best breweries in the country, each offering a unique experience and a wide range of beers. From small-scale operations with a dedicated following to larger breweries with a nationwide reputation, Southern Vermont has something for every beer lover. Here are the top 10 southern Vermont breweries you have to try.
1. Hill Farmstead Brewery
Image Source: Hill Farmstead Brewery
Located in Greensboro Bend, Hill Farmstead Brewery is a family-owned and operated brewery that has gained national and international recognition for its outstanding beers. Founded by Shaun Hill in 2010, the brewery focuses on traditional farmstead brewing techniques and uses locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.
Some of their most notable beers include Edward, a classic American Pale Ale, and Abner, a triple India Pale Ale that has won multiple awards.
Also Read: The Best Low Purine Beer: Top 10
2. Foam Brewers
Image Source: Foam Brewers
This Burlington-based brewery is known for its unique and experimental beers that push the boundaries of traditional Brewing. It was founded in 2016 by Todd Haire, Sam Keane, Casey, and Robert Grim. Foam Brewers has quickly made a name in the craft beer industry with its sour beers, Belgian-style ales, and double IPAs.
Foam Brewers has gained recognition for its exceptional beers and has been featured in various craft beer publications. In addition, customers can enjoy a pint in their tasting room overlooking the scenic waterfront of Lake Champlain.
3. The Alchemist
Image Source: The Alchemist
The Alchemist, based in Stowe, is a legendary brewery that significantly popularized the hazy New England-style IPA. Founded by John and Jen Kimmich in 2003, The Alchemist gained widespread acclaim with its flagship beer, Heady Topper.
Known for its intensely hoppy and aromatic profile, Heady Topper quickly became a sought-after brew. The Alchemist’s focus on quality and freshness has earned them a dedicated following.
Alongside Heady Topper, they also brew other noteworthy beers, such as Focal Banger IPA and Crusher Double IPA. The Alchemist has been recognized as one of the top breweries in Vermont and has received numerous awards for its exceptional beers.
4. Lost Nation Brewing
Image Source: Lost Nation Brewing
Located in Morrisville, Lost Nation Brewing prides itself on producing European-style beers using local ingredients. It was founded in 2013 and has gained a reputation for its Gose beer, a tart, salty beer originating in Germany.
Lost Nation also produces a range of other beers, including pale ales, lagers, and stouts.
Also Read: The Best Low Carb Stout Beer: Top 10
5. Zero Gravity Craft Brewery
Image Source: Zero Gravity Craft Brewery
Founded in 2004, Zero Gravity Craft Brewery has become a beloved fixture in the Burlington beer scene. With a focus on crafting well-balanced and drinkable beers, Zero Gravity offers a wide range of styles to cater to various tastes. Their offerings include hoppy IPAs, refreshing pilsners, and rich stouts.
Noteworthy Zero Gravity Craft Brewery beers include Conehead IPA, Green State Lager, and Madonna Double IPA. The brewery has received accolades for its consistently excellent beers and inviting brewpub atmosphere. Customers can enjoy a pint in their tasting room or at their rooftop bar overlooking Lake Champlain.
6. Hermit Thrush Brewery
Image Source: Hermit Thrush Brewery
Based in Brattleboro, Hermit Thrush Brewery specializes in sour beers brewed using wild yeast and aged in oak barrels. Established in 2014, it has won multiple awards for its sour beers, including the popular Brattlebeer, a sour ale brewed with locally harvested apples.
Hermit Thrush Brewery focuses on sustainability and sources local ingredients whenever possible. Notable beers from Hermit Thrush Brewery include Party Guy, Brattlebeer, and Green Street.
7. Von Trapp Brewery
Image Source: Von Trapp Brewery
Inspired by the family’s Austrian heritage, the Von Trapp Brewery produces traditional Austrian-style lagers using locally sourced ingredients. Located in Stowe, the brewery is in a stunning building reminiscent of a traditional Austrian chalet.
Their dedication to quality and adherence to traditional brewing techniques have earned them several awards and recognition, including medals at the Great American Beer Festival.
Also Read: The 10 Best Beers For Steak And Ale Pie
8. Long Trail Brewing Co.
Image Source: Long Trail Brewing Co.
Founded in 1989, Long Trail Brewing Co. is one of the oldest breweries in Vermont. Located in Bridgewater Corners, the brewery produces a range of beers, including the famous Long Trail Ale, a medium-bodied amber ale. Long Trail also has a restaurant on-site that serves traditional pub fare.
Notable beers include the Double Bag Ale, Limbo IPA, and Blackberry Wheat. The brewery has received numerous accolades and remains a staple in Vermont’s craft beer scene.
9. Lawson’s Finest Liquids
Image source: Lawson’s Finest Liquids
Founded in 2008, Lawson’s Finest Liquids is a small-scale brewery that produces a wide range of beers. Some of these include IPAs, stouts, and lagers.
The brewery in Waitsfield has a tasting room where customers can sample their beers and take home a growler. The brewery’s commitment to quality and innovation has garnered numerous awards and recognition from the craft beer world.
10. Four Quarters Brewing
Image Source: Four Quarters Brewing
Four Quarters Brewing combines traditional brewing methods with a creative and experimental approach. They are known for pushing boundaries and producing unique and flavorful beers.
Four Quarters Brewing offers an ever-changing lineup of styles, including IPAs, saisons, and barrel-aged offerings. Notable beers include the Baltic Porter, The Golden Ticket Belgian Ale, and the Raincloud Chocolate Raspberry Stout. The brewery’s commitment to innovation and ability to create bold and memorable flavors have gained a loyal following in the Vermont beer scene.
Also Read: The 10 Best Beers For No Hangover
Brewery Tours and Tastings in Southern Vermont
If you’re looking for a fun and educational way to spend an afternoon, consider taking a brewery tour and tasting. Here are some of the best options in Southern Vermont.
The Alchemist Brewery. The company offers guided tours to help visitors get a close-up look at their brewery. The tour only accommodates 12, 21+ years of people at a go. The tour takes about 30 minutes. The cost is $25 per person, which includes a commemorative tasting glass and a can of their beer.
Hill Farmstead Brewery: Hill Farmstead Brewery offers guided tours and tastings by appointment only. Tours typically last around 60-90 minutes and cost $10 per person. Tastings are included in the tour price. To make a reservation and inquire about tour times, visit their website or contact them directly.
Foam Brewers: Foam Brewers offers guided tours of their facility. Tours are typically held on weekends and last approximately 45 minutes to an hour. The cost is $15 per person, which includes a tasting flight of their beers. Check their website for tour schedules and any updates on tour costs.
Zero Gravity Craft Brewery: Zero Gravity Craft Brewery welcomes visitors to their taproom and brewery for tours and tastings. Tours are typically offered on Saturdays at 2:00 PM and last about 45 minutes. The cost is $8 per person, which includes a tasting flight of their beers. Check their website or contact the brewery for the most up-to-date tour times and costs.
Whether you’re a seasoned beer lover or just looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon, a brewery tour and tasting in Southern Vermont won’t disappoint.
Also Read: The 10 Best Beers for Beef Stew
Conclusion
Southern Vermont boasts a vibrant craft beer scene showcasing its top breweries’ passion, creativity, and dedication. From the world-renowned Hill Farmstead Brewery to the innovative Foam Brewers, each brewery on our list offers a unique experience and a diverse range of exceptional beers.
