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Embark on a beer journey in Portland, Maine, where the thriving brewery scene mirrors the city's eclectic charm. Nestled in the heart of New England, Portland boasts a dynamic array of craft breweries, each with unique flavors and stories. From hop-forward ales to rich stouts, this coastal city is a haven for beer enthusiasts.
Here, we will cover a brief history of the city's brewing past, a comprehensive list of Portland breweries, and a detailed review of the 10 best Breweries in Portland, Maine including each brewery’s address, location, operation hours, website, history, awards, signature beer styles, taprooms, ambiance, foods on the menu and mor. Enjoy, and cheers to the spirited taste of New England!
Portland, Maine's brewing legacy is a tale woven into the city's history. In the 1800s, Portland's streets echoed with the clinking of beer mugs as brewing became a cornerstone of local culture.
Historically, Prohibition cast a long shadow over the city's beer industry. In fact, Portland was the origin of the Temperance movement. Nevertheless, Portland's beer brewing spirit endured. The late 20th century witnessed a revival and marked the onset of a craft beer renaissance in Maine. Numerous microbreweries and brewpubs proliferated, bringing diverse flavors to discerning palates.
Pioneering establishments laid the foundation, and today, Portland stands as a brewing mecca within New England. This resurgence resurrected old traditions and fostered a culture of innovation which brewers used to experiment with diverse styles, ingredients and techniques.
As you navigate the city's streets, the aromas of hops and malt tell the story of Portland's enduring love affair with beer. The city invites enthusiasts to savor its rich brewing heritage and the contemporary creativity that defines its thriving beer culture.
Venture into the heart of Portland, Maine, and discover a mosaic of breweries, which paint the city's landscape with diverse flavors. Let’s explore the breweries that form the backbone of Portland's vibrant and ever-evolving beer scene.
Portland boasts a rich tapestry of breweries that cater to all palates within cutting-edge taprooms that push the boundaries of flavor.
Now let's explore 10 of the top breweries that have left their mark on Portland's brewing landscape based on a number of factors as well as customer ratings from Untappd.
Established in 1995, Allagash Brewing Company is one of the pioneering forces in the American craft beer scene. Founder Rob Tod's passion for Belgian-style beers inspired the brewery's inception in Portland, Maine.
Allagash gained acclaim for its commitment to traditional brewing methods, including open fermentation and oak aging, which resulted in a distinctive flavor profile.
Over the years, the brewery has received numerous awards, notably the 2010 World Beer Cup for Best Belgian-Style Tripel and, the Brewery of the Year award at the Great American Beer Festical in 2021 and 2023.
With a dedication to quality, creativity and sustainability, Allagash continues to push boundaries and redefine the craft beer landscape to hold its place as an industry leader.
Allagash Brewing's tasting room at 50 Industrial Way stands out as a unique haven for beer enthusiasts. This exclusive space boasts an extensive array of signature brews including the hop-rich IPA, Trippel Golden Ale, Allagash White and barrel-aged cider, elevating the experience with diverse culinary offerings.
From delectable lobster rolls to savory pulled pork sandwiches, burgers, caprese and grilled cheese, the tasting room provides a gastronomic journey to complement the exceptional brews.
Beyond the libations and culinary delights, Allagash Brewing offers a range of immersive events including brewery tours, guided tastings, exclusive beer releases and private gatherings to ensure a dynamic and engaging experience for all patrons.
Founded in 2013 by brothers Noah and Peter Bissell, Bissell Brothers Brewing has become an influential force in the craft beer industry. Originating in Portland, Maine, the brewery has crafted a compelling history marked by a commitment to quality, innovation and community engagement.
With a portfolio of a diverse range of beer styles, Bissell Brothers has earned widespread acclaim for its exceptional brews, and it has garnered prestigious awards,including the Chamber Business of the Year in 2023, which underscores its dedication to brewing excellence.
The brothers' visionary approach to brewing, coupled with a keen sense of tradition, has positioned Bissell Brothers as a beacon in the craft beer world. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a revered institution, the brewery's story is one of passion, craftsmanship and a relentless pursuit of brewing perfection.
Bissell Brothers extends warm hospitality through two distinct taprooms with plenty of high-quality beer on tap. These locations are strategically located in Portland and Three Rivers. These spaces provide beer enthusiasts with a curated selection of the brewery's renowned creations including Substance, Swish, Lucky, Reciprocal, Precept, Fire Road and more.
Both taprooms feature an extensive menu that showcases a diverse range of foods including signature sandwiches, wings, fries and non-beer beverages alongside a kid’s menu. The culinary offerings complement the brewery's exceptional beer selection to ensure a well-rounded experience for visitors.
Bissell Brothers also arranges an impressive number of unique events hosted at both taprooms, which include public and private gatherings for beer releases, cocktails and exclusive in-taproom events. Notably, while the Portland taproom accommodates private events, the Three Rivers taproom does not host private gatherings.
Founded in 2015 within a South Portland barn, Battery Steele Brewing's humble origins marked the inception of a pursuit for brewing perfection.
Initially crafting the signature Flume Double IPA, the brewery has since expanded its repertoire and earned the loyalty of patrons at the original taproom on Industrial Way in Portland and the Kitchen+Bar in Wells.
The Wells-based Kitchen and Bar, nestled near the beach, elevates the culinary experience, which emphasizes its partnerships with local farmers for the freshest ingredients.
With a commitment to excellence, Battery Steele Brewing has become a revered name in Maine's craft beer and culinary scene.
Battery Steele Brewing operates its only taproom in Portland, exuding a welcoming ambiance with carefully selected brews that encapsulate the essence of craftsmanship.
Additionally, the brewery offers distinguished events through its taproom. Every Monday to Friday, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, patrons can partake in a delightful Happy Hour where the air is filled with camaraderie with offerings showcasing their brewing excellence.
Wednesday nights transform the brewery into a cinematic oasis called Movie Night, offering a curated selection of films that pair harmoniously with their artisanal brews. This unique midweek experience of Battery Steele Brewing creates an atmosphere of relaxation and shared enjoyment.
For those seeking a distinctive venue, Battery Steele Brewing extends its space for private events. The taproom, with its rustic charm and industrial chic aesthetics, serves as an ideal backdrop for corporate functions, birthdays and special occasions.
Established in 2014 by two brothers Jake and Will Austin, this Portland-based brewery has carved its niche by focusing on quality and innovation.
Inspired by both traditional and modern brewing techniques, the Austin Street Brewery has garnered recognition for its diverse lineup of beers. Awards, including prestigious accolades at events like the Great American Beer Festival, underline their commitment to excellence.
Austin Street Brewery's rich history continues to unfold and solidify its reputation as a leading player in the vibrant and ever-evolving craft beer landscape of Portland, Maine.
Austin Street Brewery allows guests to explore its two vibrant taprooms situated on Fox Street and Industrial Way to offer a dynamic setting to savor their finely crafted beers.
Additionally, the brewery offers an array of snacks including their signature Deep River chips and a selection of non-alcoholic beverages to complement the diverse beer offerings.
Among the brews, enthusiasts can enjoy classics such as Patina and Original Maine Ale alongside unique offerings like the Pilot series and Fair Fight, among others.
Adding to the social ambiance, Austin Street Brewery hosts engaging events like Trivia nights and live music events to provide an immersive experience that extends beyond their exceptional craft brews.
Foundation Brewing Company was founded in 2013 and has established itself as a prominent player in the beer industry of Maine. Co-founders Joel Mahaffey and John Bonney merged their passion for brewing and love of Belgian-style beers to create a brewery dedicated to innovation and superior beer.
Embracing a farmhouse-style approach, Foundation Brewing has gathered acclaim for its diverse and flavorful beer offerings. The brewery has received recognition at various beer competitions, which reveals an unerring commitment to excellence.
Foundation Brewing Company's history is a testament to its dedication to crafting unique and exceptional brews that contribute to the rich tapestry of Portland's craft beer community.
Foundation Brewing Company stands as a unique destination, boasting the only tasting room in Portland with an outdoor patio, allowing patrons to choose between indoor seating and outdoor seating. Guests can enjoy foods like pizza and cheesy bread complemented by snacks such as chips, salsa as well as tempting desserts.
The beer selection of this tasting room is diverse and features renowned brews like Josef, Chaos Elixir, Epiphany and Burnside. Foundation Brewing Company also allows engaging events including Trivia and Game Night to create a lively atmosphere while Club Discussions offer a platform for beer enthusiasts.
Foundation Brewing also caters to private events to provide a versatile space for fundraisers, parties, weddings, corporate gatherings and the quintessential pizza party.
Founded in 2016 by brothers Tom and John Madden along with head brewer Tom Madden Jr., the brewery focuses on brewing bold and innovative beers.
Their commitment to quality has earned them recognition in the form of awards including accolades at the Great American Beer Festival and the World Beer Cup for the Juicy or Hazy Imperial IPA beer style.
Lone Pine Brewing Company has become synonymous with creativity that pushes the boundaries of traditional brewing to deliver a diverse range of flavorful and meticulously crafted beers.
Lone Pine Brewing Company beckons patrons to its three distinctive tasting rooms in Portland, Westbrook and Old Orchard Beach. All the taprooms offer a diverse beer selection that features Portland Pale Ale, Oh-J, Maine Outdoor Beer and the iconic Brightside IPA among others.
Engaging events such as the popular Flights and Flannel offer a dynamic social experience, while the brewery caters to various private events to ensure a personalized touch for special occasions.
The fusion of exceptional craft beers, pet-friendly spaces and a calendar of lively events establishes Lone Pine Brewing Company as a community-centric destination in Portland.
Nathan and Heather Sanborn started Rising Tide Brewing as a beer business in 2010 in Portland, Maine. The brewery, born out of a passion for quality and community, has steadily risen to prominence.
Known for its commitment to creativity, Rising Tide has received accolades for its exceptional brews at events like the Great American Beer Festival and others. Notable awards include the Maine Family Business Award in 2016 and MocKingFish being named among the top 25 beers in 2015 by the now-defunct DRAFT Magazine.
The brewery's history is a testament to its founders' dedication to crafting unique and memorable beers, which contributed to Rising Tide Brewing's status as a respected and beloved institution in the craft brewing community.
Rising Tide Brewing operates a single tasting room in Portland to provide a "beer-first" experience for its customers. This taproom offers myriad different beers that include year-round offerings, flights and seasonal beers.
The food menu at the tasting room comprises classic fare such as buffalo chicken dip, hummus, cheese salad, chicken sandwiches, whoopie pies and chili tots, among others.
Additionally, Rising Tide Brewing allows public and private events, which include the Rising Thighs Carnival, Book Club meetings and community-oriented gatherings like Fly Tying Wednesdays and Thursday Knit Night.
Rising Tide Brewing focuses on simplicity and substance to provide patrons with a functional space to enjoy beer, food and unpretentious social events.
Not a brewery, per se, Urban Farm Fermentory, which was established in 2010 in Portland, stands as a unique fermentation hub in the city. Founded by Eli Cayer, this urban farmhouse combines traditional brewing methods with a modern ethos.
Known for crafting an eclectic array of fermented beverages including kombucha, cider and mead, Urban Farm Fermentory has carved a unique niche in the industry.
Urban Farm Fermentory's history reflects a commitment to sustainable and artisanal practices which make it a distinct and vibrant presence in Maine's brewing landscape.
Urban Farm Fermentory operates a beautifully organized taproom in Portland that offers a diverse range of beverages which include many iterations of Cider, Kombucha, Mead, Jun, and other flavors.
On the First Friday of each week, the taproom pulses with energy during Salsa Night, a lively and rhythmic event. Additionally, patrons can unwind to the melodic tunes of the Sunday Jazz Session each Sunday in the taproom.
Urban Farm Fermentory extends its versatile space for private events which can accommodate weddings, fundraisers, private functions and educational workshops with a spacious capacity of 150-200 people.
Fred Forsley and Alan Pugsley established Shipyard Brewing Company in 1994 with a focus on producing appealing craft beers. Originating in Portland, Maine, the brewery has expanded its footprint in several other locations and gained national recognition.
Shipyard's history is intertwined with innovation, particularly in the revival of traditional English brewing methods by Pugsley. The brewery's flagship beer, Shipyard Export Ale, has been a cornerstone of its success for many years.
Over the years, Shipyard has earned numerous awards, including medals at prestigious events like the West Coast Brew Fest, Australian International Beer Awards and the World Beer Cup, cementing its status as a key player in the craft brewing landscape.
Shipyard Brewing Company extends a warm welcome at its two tasting rooms located in Portland and Sanford. Visitors can indulge in a diverse beer selection including Double NE IPA, Smashed Blueberry and Shipyard Melon, among numerous others.
Complementing the libations, the taprooms both offer a delectable array of foods including fruit and nut snacks, cheesy flatbreads, pizzas, BBQ chicken and myriad sandwich options.
Furthermore, Shipyard Brewing provides a versatile space for a range of events, from corporate gatherings to birthday parties and bachelor/bachelorette celebrations to ensure a memorable and tailored experience for all occasions.
Geary Brewing Company holds the distinction of being one of the pioneers in Maine's craft beer movement. David and Karen Geary established the brewery in Portland in 1983 and laid the foundation for a rich brewing legacy thereafter.
Geary's Pale Ale, introduced in 1986, became the first craft beer brewed in the entire state. Over the years, the brewery has garnered recognition, receiving awards at esteemed events like the GABF and the World Beer Cup.
Geary Brewing Company's history is deeply intertwined with Maine's brewing heritage, which reflects a commitment to quality and tradition in the craft beer landscape.
Geary Brewing Company boasts a singular taproom that provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, although it temporarily closes during the winter season.
Beer enthusiasts can savor a selection of classic and innovative brews including the iconic Pale Ale, malty Irish Red Ale, the hop-forward Riverside IPA and Haze Trip, among others.
The taproom serves as an ideal venue for events such as birthday parties and social gatherings to provide a versatile space to celebrate special occasions in a community-centric environment.
Portland, Maine's thriving craft beer culture unfolds within the city's breweries, each offering its own diverse and flavorful tapestry of brews. From the iconic Geary Brewing Company, a pioneer in the craft movement, to the innovative Urban Farm Fermentory and the timeless Allagash Brewing Company, each establishment contributes to Portland's reputation as a top beer destination. As patrons explore taprooms, savor unique releases and partake in lively events, Portland's breweries stand as a testament to New England's rich brewing tradition and the dynamic evolution of craft beer.
Header Image Copyright Allagash Brewing Co./Courtesy of Flickr