Portland’s Hidden Craft Beer Trail
Are you a craft beer lover looking for your next adventure? Portland, Oregon, might just be your dream destination. Known as the "Craft Beer Capital of the World," Portland boasts over 70 breweries, each offering unique flavors and experiences. Whether you're a fan of hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, or crisp lagers, this city has something for everyone. Imagine spending a day hopping from one brewery to another, sampling some of the best beers in the country. Ready to discover Portland's hidden craft beer gems? Grab your tasting glass and let's dive into the city's vibrant beer scene.
Portland's Hidden Craft Beer Trail
Portland, Oregon, often called "Beervana," boasts a vibrant craft beer scene. Beyond the well-known breweries, hidden gems await discovery. Let's uncover some lesser-known spots that offer unique brews and experiences.
1. Cascade Brewing Barrel House
Cascade Brewing Barrel House specializes in sour beers. Their innovative approach to brewing results in complex, flavorful sours that delight the palate.
- Location: Southeast Belmont Street
- Must-Try: Bourbonic Plague, a bourbon barrel-aged sour
2. Hair of the Dog Brewing Company
Hair of the Dog Brewing Company focuses on strong ales. Their small-batch brews often feature high alcohol content and rich flavors.
- Location: Southeast Yamhill Street
- Must-Try: Adam, a historic recreation of a traditional German ale
3. Upright Brewing
Upright Brewing blends farmhouse ales with Pacific Northwest ingredients. Their open fermentation process creates unique, rustic flavors.
- Location: North Broadway
- Must-Try: Four, a light and refreshing wheat beer with a hint of spice
4. The Commons Brewery
The Commons Brewery emphasizes European-inspired beers. Their focus on traditional brewing techniques results in balanced, approachable brews.
- Location: Southeast Belmont Street
- Must-Try: Urban Farmhouse Ale, a Belgian-style saison
5. Ex Novo Brewing Co.
Ex Novo Brewing Co. operates as a non-profit brewery. They donate a portion of their profits to local charities, making each pint a contribution to the community.
- Location: North Flint Avenue
- Must-Try: Eliot IPA, a hoppy and citrusy India Pale Ale
6. Base Camp Brewing Company
Base Camp Brewing Company draws inspiration from outdoor adventures. Their beers often feature bold flavors and creative ingredients.
- Location: Southeast Oak Street
- Must-Try: S'more Stout, a rich stout brewed with chocolate and marshmallow
7. Breakside Brewery
Breakside Brewery is known for its experimental approach. They frequently release new and innovative brews, keeping beer enthusiasts on their toes.
- Location: Northeast Dekum Street
- Must-Try: Wanderlust IPA, a well-balanced IPA with tropical fruit notes
8. Ecliptic Brewing
Ecliptic Brewing combines a love for astronomy with brewing. Their beers often have celestial-themed names and unique flavor profiles.
- Location: North Mississippi Avenue
- Must-Try: Carina Peach Sour Ale, a tart and fruity sour
9. Great Notion Brewing
Great Notion Brewing focuses on hazy IPAs and creative sours. Their artistic approach to brewing results in visually stunning and delicious beers.
- Location: Northeast Alberta Street
- Must-Try: Juice Jr., a hazy IPA bursting with tropical flavors
10. Gigantic Brewing Company
Gigantic Brewing Company prides itself on brewing one-of-a-kind beers. Each batch is unique, ensuring a fresh experience with every visit.
- Location: Southeast 26th Avenue
- Must-Try: Ginormous Imperial IPA, a bold and hoppy imperial IPA
Cheers to Portland's Craft Beer Scene
Portland's craft beer scene offers a unique experience for beer lovers. With a variety of breweries and taprooms, there's always something new to try. From the hoppy IPAs at Breakside Brewery to the innovative brews at Cascade Brewing, each spot has its own charm. Exploring these hidden gems not only satisfies your taste buds but also gives you a glimpse into the city's vibrant culture. Don't forget to pair your beer with some local food for the full experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Portland's craft beer trail is a must-visit. So grab a pint, enjoy the atmosphere, and toast to the creativity and passion that make this city a craft beer haven. Cheers!
