Ever since Adolph Coors first used the crisp, cool Rocky Mountain waters to brew his Banquet Beer, Denver has been a brewing powerhouse. Now, as home to the second-most breweries per capita in the nation and perennial host of The Great American Beer Festival—which kicks off tomorrow—the craft brewery scene has exploded. Denver South alone has a cadre of breweries that are a perfect rendezvous for post-work libations (or a Colorado spin on the martini lunch…).
Here are five of our faves:
Lone Tree Brewery
As one of the breweries featured at the Great American Beer Festival, Lone Tree Brewing Co. has an objectively great reputation for taste. They also offer brew-house tours and a family-friendly taproom where you can bring your own food or order from any visiting food truck. If you’re looking to impress a client or a friend, Lone Tree Brewery is a perfect place to woo visitors. Come by and check out why their beer has been awarded medals.
Resolute Brewing
Resolute Brewing is a past medal winner at GABF along with medals in other competitions. Rest assured, this locally owned craft brewery is objectively award-winning and one you’ll want to visit more than once. Resolute is on a mission to “transform our community into a family.” If you want to be part of this neighborhood brewery, swing by after work and share their award-winning Hefeweizen with a friend. It has an aesthetically clean taproom with handmade furniture and even a patio for the warmer months. There is truly something for every beer-lover here!
3 Freaks Brewery
Also close to the Tech Center, 3 Freaks is the embodiment of a Denver local craft brewery. Its founder was a firefighter and homebrewer for 25 years before finally opening his own brewery. You can be sure these beers are brewed with pure passion and a long history of trial and error. If you’re into experimental brews and funky concoctions, 3 Freaks has you covered. Keep an eye on their “in fermentation” list, which boasts wild brews like a peach pistachio cream ale.
Halfpenny Brewing Company
This Centennial brewery is new on the scene, but it’s already proving itself a welcome addition to Denver South. Founded in 2016, Halfpenny describes itself as a family-friendly, neighborhood craft brewery specializing in German and English brew styles. Bring your kids, your well-behaved dog, your own food, and your appetite for stellar craft beer; Halfpenny even hosts an open-mic event on Thursdays, so you can be sure the entertainment will be lively.
Lost Highway Brewing Company
This long-standing brewery (the first to be located on Colfax Ave. in Denver) has recently moved its business to Centennial–but retains its award-winning brews and traditional Belgian style. In 2016, their Golden Ghost Belgian Blond won the bronze medal at the World Beer Cup, which is considered the “Olympics of beer competitions.” If that isn’t enough to get you in the door, perhaps events like “Beer Yoga” and trivia will do the trick. Show some love for this family-owned, community-oriented brewery that is new to Denver South. You can even plan work events and social gatherings at Lost Highway and show off Denver’s rich craft beer culture to the world.
In no way is this comprehensive of all the hops available in Denver South. Care to take your tastes a little further? Explore these spots as well…
