Beer Explorer

What are the best breweries in Oregon? Whether you’re traveling or this is your home, how do you find the breweries that offer top craft beer in Oregon so you can know which ones are the most worthwhile to check out? We’ve compiled a list of the top-rated breweries in Oregon, based upon the ratings of actual fellow beer-lovers on Untapped. We hope this brewery guide will aid you in your brewery exploration of The Beaver State so that you can maximize your beer and brewery enjoyment. Happy beer exploring!

#10 Silver Moon Brewing – 3.75 average Untapped rating

Silver Moon Brewing is a craft brewery located in Bend, Oregon, known for its wide range of beers and community-focused approach. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Silver Moon Brewing:

1. **Location**: Silver Moon Brewing is situated in Bend, Oregon, at 24 NW Greenwood Ave, Bend, OR 97703. Bend is located in central Oregon and is renowned for its outdoor recreational opportunities and vibrant craft beer scene.

2. **Founding**: Silver Moon Brewing was founded in 2000 by Tyler Reichert, who transformed a small homebrew shop into a full-fledged brewery. Since then, Silver Moon has grown into a prominent player in the Bend craft beer community.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Silver Moon Brewing is dedicated to crafting high-quality, innovative beers that reflect the spirit and culture of Bend. They prioritize using locally sourced ingredients and sustainable brewing practices to create beers that appeal to a wide range of tastes.

4. **Beer Selection**: Silver Moon Brewing offers a diverse lineup of beers, including a variety of styles such as IPAs, pale ales, stouts, porters, and seasonal specialties. Some of their popular beers include “Hopalicious” IPA, “Voodoo Dog” American Stout, “Mango Daze” Pale Ale, and “Juicy Daze” Hazy IPA. They also produce limited-release and specialty beers throughout the year.

5. **Taproom Experience**: Silver Moon Brewing operates a vibrant and welcoming taproom at their Bend brewery location, providing a lively atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers. The taproom features a spacious indoor seating area, outdoor patio, and a rotating selection of food trucks. Visitors can sample a variety of Silver Moon’s beers on tap, enjoy brewery tours, and participate in special events and live music nights.

6. **Distribution**: Silver Moon Brewing distributes its beers locally and regionally, primarily within Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. They package their beers in cans and kegs, making them available at select retailers, bars, and restaurants throughout the region.

Overall, Silver Moon Brewing has earned a reputation for its commitment to quality, innovation, and community involvement in the craft beer industry. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Bend, a visit to Silver Moon’s taproom promises a memorable and enjoyable craft beer experience.

#9 Goodlife Brewing Company – 3.76 average Untapped rating

GoodLife Brewing Company is a craft brewery located in Bend, Oregon, known for its diverse lineup of beers and commitment to sustainability. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of GoodLife Brewing Company:

1. **Location**: GoodLife Brewing Company is situated in Bend, Oregon, at 70 SW Century Dr, Bend, OR 97702. Bend is located in central Oregon and is renowned for its outdoor recreational opportunities and vibrant craft beer scene.

2. **Founding**: GoodLife Brewing Company was founded in 2011 by Curt Plants, Ty Barnett, and Tim Mayer. The brewery was established with the mission of creating high-quality craft beers that celebrate the outdoor lifestyle of the Pacific Northwest.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: GoodLife Brewing Company is dedicated to brewing balanced and flavorful beers using the finest ingredients and innovative brewing techniques. They prioritize quality, consistency, and creativity in their brewing process, striving to create beers that appeal to a wide range of palates.

4. **Beer Selection**: GoodLife Brewing Company offers a diverse lineup of beers, including a variety of styles such as IPAs, pale ales, stouts, porters, and seasonal specialties. Some of their popular beers include “Descender” IPA, “Sweet As!” Pacific Ale, “Comatose” Imperial IPA, and “Passionate Envy” Sour Ale. They also produce limited-release and barrel-aged beers as part of their specialty lineup.

5. **Taproom Experience**: GoodLife Brewing Company operates a welcoming taproom at their Bend brewery location, providing a relaxed and inviting atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers. The taproom features a spacious indoor seating area, outdoor patio with fire pits, and a rotating selection of food trucks. Visitors can sample a variety of GoodLife’s beers on tap, enjoy brewery tours, and participate in special events and live music nights.

6. **Distribution**: GoodLife Brewing Company distributes its beers locally, regionally, and nationally, making them available at retail outlets, bars, and restaurants across the United States. They package their beers in cans and kegs, ensuring freshness and quality for consumers.

Overall, GoodLife Brewing Company has earned a reputation for its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability in the craft beer industry. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Bend, a visit to GoodLife’s taproom promises a memorable and enjoyable craft beer experience.

#8 Avid Cider Company – 3.78 average Untapped rating

Avid Cider Company is a craft cidery located in Bend, Oregon. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Avid Cider Company:

1. **Location**: Avid Cider Company is situated in Bend, Oregon, at 550 SW Industrial Way Suite 190, Bend, OR 97702. Bend is located in central Oregon and is known for its vibrant craft beverage scene and outdoor recreational opportunities.

2. **Founding**: Avid Cider Company was founded in 2013 by David Roth and his wife, Brandi, with the goal of crafting premium hard ciders using locally sourced ingredients and traditional cider-making techniques.

3. **Cider Philosophy**: Avid Cider Company is dedicated to producing high-quality, handcrafted ciders that showcase the natural flavors of the Pacific Northwest. They prioritize using fresh-pressed, locally sourced apples and other fruits to create their ciders, which are known for their crispness, balance, and complexity.

4. **Cider Selection**: Avid Cider Company offers a diverse lineup of hard ciders, including both traditional and innovative flavor combinations. Some of their popular ciders include “Apricot” (made with Northwest-grown apricots), “Dry” (a classic dry cider), “Pear Ginger” (infused with ginger and pear flavors), and “Marionberry” (featuring Oregon marionberries). They also produce seasonal and limited-release ciders throughout the year.

5. **Taproom Experience**: Avid Cider Company operates a welcoming taproom at their Bend location, providing a relaxed and casual atmosphere for cider enthusiasts to enjoy their offerings. The taproom features a rotating selection of ciders on tap, flights for sampling, and a cozy indoor and outdoor seating area where visitors can socialize and enjoy their drinks.

6. **Distribution**: Avid Cider Company distributes its ciders locally and regionally, primarily within Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. They package their ciders in cans and bottles, making them available at select retailers, bars, and restaurants throughout the region.

Overall, Avid Cider Company has gained recognition for its commitment to quality, innovation, and craftsmanship in the cider industry. Whether you’re a cider aficionado or simply looking to explore new flavors, a visit to Avid Cider Company promises a delightful and refreshing experience.

#7 Deschutes Brewery – 3.80 average Untapped rating

Deschutes Brewery is a well-established craft brewery located in Bend, Oregon, known for its wide range of high-quality beers and its role in shaping the craft beer scene in the Pacific Northwest. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Deschutes Brewery:

1. **Location**: Deschutes Brewery is situated in Bend, Oregon, at 901 SW Simpson Ave, Bend, OR 97702. Bend is located in central Oregon and is renowned for its outdoor recreation opportunities and vibrant craft beer culture.

2. **Founding**: Deschutes Brewery was founded in 1988 by Gary Fish in the town of Bend. It started as a small brewpub and has since grown into one of the largest and most respected craft breweries in the United States.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Deschutes Brewery is committed to crafting high-quality, innovative beers using traditional brewing techniques and the finest ingredients. They prioritize quality, consistency, and sustainability in every aspect of their brewing process.

4. **Beer Selection**: Deschutes Brewery offers a diverse lineup of beers, including a wide range of styles such as IPAs, pale ales, stouts, porters, and seasonal specialties. Some of their most popular beers include “Mirror Pond” Pale Ale, “Black Butte” Porter, “Fresh Squeezed” IPA, and “Obsidian” Stout. They also produce barrel-aged and sour beers as part of their Reserve Series.

5. **Taproom Experience**: Deschutes Brewery operates a spacious and inviting public house at their Bend brewery location, providing a relaxed and friendly atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers. The taproom features a diverse selection of beers on tap, including brewery-exclusive and limited-release offerings. Visitors can also enjoy pub-style food from the kitchen and participate in brewery tours and events.

6. **Distribution**: Deschutes Brewery distributes its beers nationally and internationally, making them widely available at retail outlets, bars, and restaurants across the United States and in select international markets. They package their beers in bottles, cans, and kegs, ensuring that craft beer enthusiasts can enjoy Deschutes’ brews wherever they are.

Overall, Deschutes Brewery has earned a reputation for its commitment to quality, innovation, and community involvement. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Bend, a visit to Deschutes Brewery promises a memorable and enjoyable craft beer experience.

#6 Monkless Belgian Ales – 3.86 average Untapped rating

Monkless Belgian Ales is a brewery located in Bend, Oregon, specializing in crafting traditional Belgian-style ales. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Monkless Belgian Ales:

1. **Location**: Monkless Belgian Ales is situated in Bend, Oregon, at 20750 High Desert Ln Suite 107, Bend, OR 97701. Bend is located in central Oregon and is known for its vibrant craft beer scene and outdoor recreational opportunities.

2. **Founding**: Monkless Belgian Ales was founded in 2014 by owner and head brewer, Todd Clement. Inspired by the rich brewing tradition of Belgian abbey ales, Monkless Belgian Ales was established to bring the flavors and techniques of Belgian brewing to the Pacific Northwest.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Monkless Belgian Ales is dedicated to brewing authentic Belgian-style ales using traditional brewing methods and ingredients. They draw inspiration from the Trappist monks of Belgium, who have perfected the art of brewing over centuries. Monkless Belgian Ales focuses on creating complex, flavorful, and well-balanced beers that pay homage to the Belgian brewing tradition.

4. **Beer Selection**: Monkless Belgian Ales offers a range of Belgian-style ales, including abbey ales, dubbels, tripels, and quadrupels. Some of their flagship beers include “Capitulation” Belgian Dubbel, “Shepplekofeggan” Belgian Tripel, and “Meet Your Maker” Belgian Quad. They also produce seasonal and limited-release beers, often incorporating unique ingredients and brewing techniques.

5. **Taproom Experience**: Monkless Belgian Ales operates a taproom at their brewery location in Bend, providing a cozy and inviting atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their Belgian-style ales. The taproom features a rustic and intimate ambiance, with indoor and outdoor seating options available. Visitors can sample a variety of Monkless Belgian Ales’ beers on tap, enjoy brewery tours, and engage with knowledgeable staff members who are passionate about Belgian beer.

6. **Distribution**: Monkless Belgian Ales distributes its beers locally and regionally, primarily within Oregon. They package their beers in bottles and kegs, making them available at select retailers, bars, and restaurants throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Overall, Monkless Belgian Ales has gained recognition for its commitment to brewing authentic Belgian-style ales of exceptional quality. Whether you’re a fan of Belgian beer styles or simply looking to explore new flavors, a visit to Monkless Belgian Ales promises a unique and memorable craft beer experience.

#5 Sunriver Brewing Company – 4.86 average Untapped rating

Sunriver Brewing Company is a popular craft brewery located in Sunriver, Oregon. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Sunriver Brewing Company:

1. **Location**: Sunriver Brewing Company is situated in the resort community of Sunriver, Oregon, at 57100 Beaver Dr, Building 4, Sunriver, OR 97707. Sunriver is located in central Oregon, near the city of Bend, and is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities and scenic beauty.

2. **Founding**: Sunriver Brewing Company was founded in 2012 by Brian and Branden Liston, who sought to create a brewery that reflects their passion for craft beer and the outdoor lifestyle of Central Oregon.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Sunriver Brewing Company is dedicated to brewing high-quality, handcrafted beers that showcase the flavors and ingredients of the Pacific Northwest. They prioritize quality ingredients, innovative brewing techniques, and sustainability in their brewing process.

4. **Beer Selection**: Sunriver Brewing Company offers a diverse lineup of craft beers, including a variety of styles such as IPAs, pale ales, stouts, porters, and seasonal specialties. Some of their most popular beers include “Rippin” NW Ale, “Fuzztail” Hefeweizen, “Vicious Mosquito” IPA, and “Coco Cow” Milk Stout. They also produce barrel-aged and sour beers as part of their specialty lineup.

5. **Taproom Experience**: Sunriver Brewing Company operates a welcoming and family-friendly taproom at their brewery location in Sunriver. The taproom features a relaxed atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating options, a dog-friendly patio, and views of the surrounding scenery. Visitors can sample a variety of Sunriver’s beers on tap, enjoy pub-style food from the kitchen, and participate in special events and live music nights.

6. **Distribution**: Sunriver Brewing Company distributes its beers regionally, primarily within the Pacific Northwest, including Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. They package their beers in cans and kegs, making them available at select retailers, bars, and restaurants throughout the region.

Overall, Sunriver Brewing Company has gained recognition for its commitment to quality, innovation, and community involvement. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Central Oregon, a visit to Sunriver’s taproom promises a memorable and enjoyable craft beer experience.

#4 Crux Fermentation Project – 3.84 average Untapped rating

Crux Fermentation Project is a well-known craft brewery located in Bend, Oregon. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Crux Fermentation Project:

1. **Location**: Crux Fermentation Project is situated in Bend, Oregon, at 50 SW Division St, Bend, OR 97702. Bend is a city located in the central part of the state, known for its thriving craft beer scene and outdoor recreational opportunities.

2. **Founding**: Crux Fermentation Project was founded in 2012 by Larry Sidor and Paul Evers. The brewery was established with the vision of creating unique, innovative, and flavorful beers that push the boundaries of traditional brewing.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Crux Fermentation Project is dedicated to crafting high-quality, small-batch beers that showcase the best of Pacific Northwest ingredients and brewing techniques. They prioritize creativity, experimentation, and quality control in every aspect of the brewing process.

4. **Beer Selection**: Crux Fermentation Project offers a diverse lineup of craft beers, spanning a wide range of styles and flavor profiles. Some of their most popular beers include “Cast Out” IPA, “Half Hitch” Imperial IPA, “PCT Porter” (Pacific Crest Trail Porter), and “Gimme Mo” IPA. They also produce seasonal and limited-release beers, often featuring innovative ingredients and brewing methods.

5. **Taproom Experience**: Crux Fermentation Project operates a spacious and inviting taproom at their brewery in Bend, providing a relaxed and communal atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers. The taproom features a large indoor seating area, outdoor patio with fire pits, and stunning views of the Cascade Mountains. Visitors can sample a variety of Crux’s beers on tap, enjoy food from rotating food trucks, and participate in brewery tours and special events.

6. **Distribution**: Crux Fermentation Project distributes its beers regionally and nationally, making them available at select retailers, bars, and restaurants across the United States. They package their beers in cans and bottles, ensuring freshness and quality for consumers.

Overall, Crux Fermentation Project has earned a reputation for producing exceptional craft beers and for their commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Bend, a visit to Crux’s taproom promises a memorable and enjoyable craft beer experience.

#3 Boneyard Beer – 3.94 average Untapped rating

Boneyard Beer is a renowned craft brewery located in Bend, Oregon. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Boneyard Beer:

1. **Location**: Boneyard Beer is situated in Bend, Oregon, at 37 NW Lake Pl, Bend, OR 97703. Bend is a city located in the central part of the state, known for its thriving craft beer scene and outdoor recreational opportunities.

2. **Founding**: Boneyard Beer was founded in 2010 by Tony Lawrence, Clay Parnell, and Melodee Storey. The brewery was born out of a passion for brewing and a desire to create innovative, flavorful beers for the local community.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Boneyard Beer is dedicated to brewing bold, hop-forward beers with a focus on quality, creativity, and innovation. They are known for their commitment to using high-quality ingredients and for pushing the boundaries of traditional beer styles.

4. **Beer Selection**: Boneyard Beer offers a diverse lineup of craft beers, with a focus on hoppy ales such as IPAs and pale ales. Some of their most popular beers include “RPM IPA” (Revolutionary Pale Ale), “Notorious” Triple IPA, “Skunkape” American Stout, and “Diablo Rojo” Red Ale. They also produce seasonal and limited-release beers, often experimenting with new ingredients and brewing techniques.

5. **Taproom Experience**: Boneyard Beer operates a taproom at their brewery in Bend, providing a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their beers. The taproom features a rustic industrial vibe, with a spacious indoor seating area, outdoor patio, and a rotating selection of food trucks. Visitors can sample a variety of Boneyard’s beers on tap, take brewery tours, and purchase merchandise to take home.

6. **Distribution**: Boneyard Beer distributes its beers regionally and nationally, making them widely available at retail outlets, bars, and restaurants across the United States. They package their beers in cans and kegs, ensuring that craft beer enthusiasts can enjoy Boneyard’s brews wherever they are.

Overall, Boneyard Beer has earned a reputation for producing exceptional craft beers and for their dedication to quality, innovation, and community involvement. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Bend, a visit to Boneyard’s taproom promises a memorable and enjoyable craft beer experience.

#2 Great Notion – 4.15 average Untapped rating

Note: All time favorite of ours!

Great Notion Brewing is a renowned craft brewery located in Portland, Oregon, known for its innovative and flavorful beers, particularly its hazy IPAs and pastry stouts. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Great Notion Brewing:

1. **Location**: Great Notion Brewing operates two locations in Portland, Oregon. Their primary brewery and taproom is located at 2444 NW 28th Ave, Portland, OR 97210, and they have a second taproom at 2204 NE Alberta St, Portland, OR 97211.

2. **Founding**: Great Notion Brewing was founded in 2016 by three friends: Paul Reiter, James Dugan, and Andy Miller. They aimed to create a brewery that prioritized innovation, quality, and creativity in crafting unique and flavorful beers.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Great Notion Brewing is known for pushing the boundaries of traditional beer styles, focusing on bold flavors and experimental ingredients. They are particularly acclaimed for their hazy IPAs, fruit-forward sour ales, and decadent pastry stouts. The brewery emphasizes quality ingredients, meticulous brewing processes, and a commitment to innovation.

4. **Beer Selection**: Great Notion Brewing offers a diverse lineup of beers, with a focus on hazy IPAs, sour ales, and stouts. Some of their popular beers include “Double Stack” Imperial Breakfast Stout, “Juice Jr.” IPA, “Blueberry Muffin” Sour Ale, and “Ripe” IPA. They also produce a variety of rotating and limited-release beers, often incorporating unconventional ingredients and brewing techniques.

5. **Taproom Experience**: Both of Great Notion Brewing’s taprooms offer inviting and vibrant spaces for patrons to enjoy their beers. The taprooms feature modern and stylish decor, with ample indoor seating, outdoor patios, and a lively atmosphere. Visitors can sample a wide selection of Great Notion’s beers on tap, purchase cans and merchandise, and enjoy food from local vendors.

6. **Distribution**: Great Notion Brewing distributes its beers primarily within Oregon, but they also have limited distribution in select markets across the United States. They package their beers in cans and occasionally release special bottle releases, making them available at their taprooms and select retail locations.

Overall, Great Notion Brewing has garnered widespread acclaim for its innovative and flavorful beers, as well as its commitment to quality and creativity in the craft beer industry. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Portland, a visit to one of Great Notion Brewing’s taprooms promises an exciting and memorable beer experience.

#1 The Ale Apothecary – 4.24 average Untapped rating

The Ale Apothecary is a unique brewery located in Bend, Oregon. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of The Ale Apothecary:

1. **Location**: The Ale Apothecary is situated in Bend, Oregon, which is located in the central part of the state. The exact address for The Ale Apothecary’s brewery and tasting room is not readily available, as it operates out of a small, rustic facility in the countryside near Bend.

2. **Founding**: The Ale Apothecary was founded by Paul Arney in 2011. Arney, a former brewer at Deschutes Brewery, started The Ale Apothecary with a vision to create unique, small-batch, barrel-aged beers using traditional brewing methods and locally sourced ingredients.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: The Ale Apothecary is dedicated to crafting artisanal, barrel-aged beers that are fermented and aged using wild yeast and bacteria, as well as locally harvested ingredients. They utilize a unique brewing process that involves open fermentation in wooden barrels, allowing the beer to develop complex flavors and aromas over time.

4. **Beer Selection**: The Ale Apothecary offers a limited selection of handcrafted beers, each with its own distinct character and flavor profile. Some of their beers may include a variety of styles such as saisons, farmhouse ales, and sour ales, often incorporating locally sourced fruits, herbs, and botanicals.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The Ale Apothecary operates a small tasting room at their brewery location near Bend, Oregon. The tasting room provides a rustic and intimate atmosphere for patrons to sample their unique beers, learn about the brewing process, and engage with the brewery staff. Due to its small size and limited operating hours, it’s advisable to check ahead for availability and hours of operation.

6. **Distribution**: The Ale Apothecary’s beers are highly sought after and often released in limited quantities. While they primarily sell their beers directly to consumers at their tasting room and occasionally through select retailers, they may also distribute to a few specialty beer shops and restaurants in Oregon.

Overall, The Ale Apothecary has gained recognition for its commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and the art of barrel-aged brewing. With a focus on quality over quantity, a visit to The Ale Apothecary promises a unique and memorable beer-tasting experience for enthusiasts of artisanal, small-batch beers.