Denver is a city that knows its hops. With more than 150 breweries in the metro area and a reputation as one of the top beer destinations in the country, it’s no wonder craft beer lovers flock here year-round. Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or a curious newcomer, navigating Denver’s dynamic craft beer scene can be an adventure in itself. At Joy Wine & Spirits, we’re proud to celebrate and support the local beer culture that makes our city so special.
The Craft Beer Capital of the Rockies
What makes Denver such a hotspot for craft beer? A combination of history, culture, and creativity. Colorado was one of the first states to fully embrace the craft beer revolution, with pioneers like Wynkoop Brewing Company (co-founded by former Governor John Hickenlooper) setting the tone in the late 1980s. Since then, the Mile High City has blossomed into a haven for beer lovers and home to some of the most innovative microbreweries in the country.
From the laid-back taprooms in RiNo (River North Art District) to the buzzing beer gardens in LoDo (Lower Downtown), every corner of Denver has something unique to offer. And it’s not just about the beer itself—it’s about the people behind it, the passion they bring, and the sense of community built around every pour.
Exploring Beer Styles: There’s Something for Everyone
One of the most exciting aspects of Denver’s craft beer scene is the sheer variety of beer styles available. Whether you’re into the piney bitterness of a West Coast IPA or the velvety richness of a milk stout, local microbreweries offer a full spectrum of flavor experiences.
Some popular beer styles you’ll commonly find in Denver include:
IPAs (India Pale Ales): From hazy and juicy to double and triple-hopped, IPAs dominate the taps at many Denver microbreweries.
Sours and Wild Ales: For adventurous palates, sour beers fermented with wild yeast strains offer tart, funky complexity.
Lagers and Pilsners: Crisp, clean, and refreshing, these are perfect for warm Denver afternoons.
Stouts and Porters: Full-bodied and often infused with chocolate, coffee, or spices, these styles are ideal for cooler evenings.
Seasonal and Specialty Brews: Many microbreweries rotate seasonal offerings, incorporating local ingredients like Colorado peaches, spruce tips, and even green chiles.
Microbrewery Must-Stops
With so many breweries to choose from, planning your Denver beer crawl can feel overwhelming. Here are a few standout microbreweries worth visiting:
Great Divide Brewing Co. – A staple of the Denver beer scene, Great Divide offers bold, flavorful brews like Yeti Imperial Stout and Denver Pale Ale.
Cerebral Brewing – Known for its creative, science-inspired approach to brewing, Cerebral is a haven for hazy IPA lovers.
Ratio Beerworks – Located in the heart of RiNo, Ratio combines punk rock vibes with expertly crafted beer styles.
Our Mutual Friend Brewing – A community-focused microbrewery using locally malted grains and a wide range of yeasts to create distinctive beers.
Woods Boss Brewing – With a cozy cabin feel and a rotating cast of taps, Woods Boss excels at blending traditional and experimental brews.
Each microbrewery offers a different vibe and lineup, making it easy to create a beer tasting itinerary tailored to your preferences.
Beer Tasting Like a Pro
Want to elevate your craft beer experience? A proper beer tasting can help you appreciate the depth and nuance of what’s in your glass. Here are a few tips for getting the most out of each sip:
Look: Observe the beer’s color, clarity, and head retention.
Smell: Swirl the beer gently and inhale to pick up on hop, malt, yeast, and adjunct aromas.
Taste: Let the beer coat your tongue and take note of flavors across the palate—sweetness, bitterness, fruitiness, and more.
Mouthfeel: Is it crisp, creamy, dry, or effervescent?
Finish: Consider the aftertaste and how long the flavors linger.
When tasting multiple beers, go from lighter to stronger styles to avoid palate fatigue. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or request recommendations—Denver brewers are some of the most passionate and welcoming people you’ll meet.
Stock Up at Joy Wine & Spirits
Can’t make it to every microbrewery? No problem—we bring the best of Denver’s craft beer scene right to you. At Joy Wine & Spirits, we curate a rotating selection of local favorites and seasonal releases so you can explore new beer styles from the comfort of home. Whether you’re planning your own beer tasting night or just want to try something new, our knowledgeable staff is here to guide you to the perfect pint.
Cheers to the Hoppy Trails Ahead
Denver’s craft beer scene isn’t just thriving—it’s evolving. With new microbreweries opening every year and established ones experimenting with bold ingredients and brewing techniques, there’s always something fresh to discover. So grab your tasting glass, map your route, and raise a toast to the next stop on your beer journey.
See you on the hoppy trail.