Sturbridge, located in the beautiful state of Massachusetts, boasts a thriving craft beer scene that is certainly worth exploring. Craft beer has become a cultural phenomenon, and Sturbridge offers a unique blend of breweries that cater to beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
Our team of researchers, with their expertise in the field, has diligently scoured Sturbridge and its surrounding areas to present you with the top 10 breweries that truly exemplify the craft beer culture of the region. Among them, Pioneer Brewing Company stands out with its commitment to brewing exceptional beers using traditional techniques and local ingredients. One interesting finding about Pioneer Brewing Company is their dedication to reviving historical beer styles, offering a taste of the past with a modern twist.
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So, if you’re ready to embark on a beer-filled journey through Sturbridge’s craft beer landscape, join us as we unveil the top 10 breweries that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you with a deeper appreciation for the art of brewing. Get ready to discover the best breweries in Sturbridge, where passion, flavor, and creativity converge in every pint.
Here are the top 10 breweries in Sturbridge MA.
- Pioneer Brewing Company
- Spencer Brewery
- Wormtown Brewing Company
- Soul Purpose Brewing
- Iron Duke Brewing
- Connecticut Valley Brewing Company
- Fort Hill Brewery
- Wachusett Brewing Company
- Top Shelf Brewing Company
- River Styx Brewing
The Top 10 Breweries In Sturbridge MA
With so many options available, it can be hard to decide which ones are the best. To make it easier, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 breweries in Sturbridge MA that are worth checking out:
1. Pioneer Brewing Company
Pioneer Brewing Company is one of the top breweries in Sturbridge, MA, known for its unique atmosphere and exceptional signature beers. The brewery is located in the heart of Sturbridge, attracting both locals and visitors alike. With its relaxed ambiance, Pioneer Brewing Company is an ideal destination for those looking to unwind with friends or family while enjoying quality craft beer.
Their excellent range of beers includes popular favorites such as the Pioneer Pale Ale, the Sunset Wheat, and the Spring Heeled Jack. The brewery has received numerous awards and recognition within the industry, including several medals at the Great International Beer Festival.
2. Spencer Brewery
Spencer Brewery is the first American Trappist brewery, which means it is operated by monks of the Cistercian Order of the Strict Observance. Founded in 2013, Spencer Brewery’s goal is to combine monastic traditions with modern brewing techniques.
Spencer Brewery has several popular beers, including the Spencer Trappist Ale, which is a Belgian-style ale that is fruity and spicy with hints of clove, banana, and caramel. Another popular beer is the Spencer Monk’s Reserve Ale, which is a rich, dark beer with chocolate, coffee, and fruit notes.
Recently, Spencer Brewery received some notable awards and recognitions for their beers, including a gold medal at the 2019 US Open Beer Championship for their Spencer Trappist Ale and a silver medal at the 2019 Brussels Beer Challenge for their Spencer Monk’s Reserve Ale.
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3. Wormtown Brewing Company
Established in 2010, the brewery was founded by three friends who were passionate about brewing high-quality beer. Since then, Wormtown has become a staple in the Massachusetts craft beer scene, known for its locally sourced ingredients, extensive distribution, and unique beers.
One of its most popular flagship beers is Be Hoppy, a highly sought-after IPA known for its bright, hoppy flavor and aroma. Other notable beers from Wormtown include Mass Whole, a smooth and drinkable American Pale Ale, and Bottle Rocket, a crisp and refreshing Session IPA.
In 2018, the brewery won a gold medal for its Braggot entry at the Great American Beer Festival, one of the most prestigious beer competitions in the country.
4. Soul Purpose Brewing
Soul Purpose Brewing is one of the best breweries in Sturbridge, MA, dedicated to producing unique and flavorful beers while promoting social responsibility and sustainability. The brewery was founded with a mission to donate a percentage of its earnings to various social and environmental causes, making it a favorite among locals who appreciate its community-focused approach.
One of the unique offerings at Soul Purpose Brewing is its diverse range of beers, which includes stouts, ales, IPAs, and pilsners. Soul Purpose Brewing has been recognized for its social responsibility efforts, having received several awards and recognition for its commitment to community involvement. The brewery has hosted numerous fundraisers and partnered with local food trucks to provide patrons with a unique and unforgettable experience.
5. Iron Duke Brewing
Iron Duke Brewing is a popular local brewery located in the heart of Sturbridge, MA. Founded in 2016, the craft brewery has quickly become a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The brewery takes its name from the Duke of Wellington and his military campaign in Spain during the Napoleonic Wars.
Iron Duke Brewing prides itself on using locally-sourced ingredients and traditional brewing methods to create unique and flavorful craft beer. One of the signature beers at Iron Duke Brewing is the Battle Road IPA, which is a hoppy and refreshing beer that has won numerous awards.
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6. Connecticut Valley Brewing Company
What makes Connecticut Valley Brewing Company unique is its focus on bold hop-forward beers, often with a New England twist. Some of their popular beers include the Trailblazer IPA, the Hop Whammy Double IPA, and the Hopyard Haze NEIPA.
Connecticut Valley Brewing Company has been recognized on numerous occasions for its skills in craft beer brewing and has won multiple awards. An accolade that stands out is the gold medal they received at the 2019 Great American Beer Festival for their Trailblazer IPA.
7. Fort Hill Brewery
The history of Fort Hill Brewery dates back to the American Revolution when it was the site of a fortification built to defend against potential British attacks. Today, the brewery honors this history through its name and its logo, which features a silhouette of a soldier.
One of the standout features of Fort Hill Brewery is its beautiful taproom, which offers stunning views of Mount Tom and the Holyoke Mountain Range. The taproom also hosts regular events, including live music, trivia nights, and food trucks.
When it comes to beer, Fort Hill Brewery is known for its high-quality, flavorful brews. Some of the brewery’s signature beers include the Fort Hill Farmhouse Ale, the Resolution Double IPA, and the Diabolical India Black Ale. The brewery has won numerous awards for its beers, including several medals at the Great International Beer Festival.
8. Wachusett Brewing Company
Founded in 1994 by Ned LaFortune and Kevin Buckler, Wachusett Brewing Company has grown into one of the largest breweries in New England. Currently, they offer a variety of IPAs, ales, and stouts. They are also known for their partnerships and collaborations with well-known brands such as Dunkin’ Donuts.
Wachusett Brewing Company’s flagship beers include the Wachusett Blueberry Ale, Larry Imperial IPA, and Green Monsta IPA. Their Dunkin’ Donuts collaborations have been especially popular, including their Dunkin’ Coffee Porter and a seasonal release of a Pumpkin Coffee Stout.
In addition to its year-round offerings, Wachusett Brewing Company also offers seasonal and limited edition options throughout the year.
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9. Top Shelf Brewing Company
In 2014, Top Shelf Brewing Company opened its doors to provide the best beer in town. The founders of the brewery, Jim and Lisa Kuras, dedicated themselves to creating unique and flavorful beers that would stand out in the competitive craft beer scene.
The brewery offers a variety of beer types that cater to different tastes and preferences. Some of their popular beer styles include Pale Ales, IPAs, Stouts, Porters, and Lagers. These beers are brewed using traditional techniques with a modern twist, offering bold flavors that are a delight to the taste buds.
10. River Styx Brewing
This top-notch brewery offers a wide range of standout qualities, including exceptional beers, delicious food pairings, and a relaxing atmosphere. Some of the most popular beers at River Styx Brewing include their “Hellhound” IPA, “Acheron” Imperial Stout, and “Cerberus” Belgian Tripel.
In addition to its delicious beer offerings, River Styx Brewing also offers some exceptional food pairings. Their kitchen serves up a variety of creative dishes that complement the flavors of their beers perfectly.
Brewery Tours And Tastings In Sturbridge MA
Sturbridge, Massachusetts is home to some of the finest breweries in the region. You can join guided tours that visit multiple breweries in one day or opt for private tours. During these brewery tours, you’ll get an up-close look at how local brewers craft their beers and ciders, as well as a chance to sample some of their favorite beverages in the process.
- Cold Harbor Brewing Company offers tours on Saturdays at 2 pm, costing $10, and includes a tasting of four beers. Private tours and events can also be arranged.
- Altruist Brewing Company provides brewery tours on weekends by reservation, including a tasting of four beers for $10.
- Start Line Brewing Company tours are available on weekends by reservation, including a tasting of four beers for $12.
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Overall, Sturbridge and the surrounding area offer a wide variety of brewery experiences for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer enthusiast or just looking to try something new, these breweries offer something for everyone. Be sure to check out their websites or social media pages for more information on tour times and special events.
Conclusion
When it comes to finding the best breweries in Sturbridge MA, there are many great options. From unique small-batch brews to classic favorites, Sturbridge has something for everyone. Each brewery offers unique styles and experiences that can be enjoyed by beer lovers of all levels. So, no matter what your preferences are, there’s sure to be something for you to enjoy in Sturbridge!
