Beer Explorer

What are the best breweries in the Los Angeles area of Califorina? Whether you’re traveling or this is your home, how do you find the breweries that offer top craft beer around Los Angeles so you can know which ones are the most worthwhile to check out? We’ve compiled a list of the top-rated breweries around Los Angeles, California, 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 Golden State so that you can maximize your beer and brewery enjoyment. Happy beer exploring!

#10 The Bruery – 4.07 average Untapped rating

The Bruery is a renowned craft brewery located in Placentia, California, known for its innovative and experimental approach to brewing. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of The Bruery:

1. **Location**: The Bruery is situated in Placentia, a city in Orange County, California. The brewery’s location in Southern California places it in proximity to a vibrant craft beer community and access to quality ingredients.

2. **Founding**: The Bruery was founded in 2008 by Patrick Rue. The brewery was established with a vision to push the boundaries of traditional brewing and create unique and flavorful beers that challenge the palate and inspire curiosity.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: The Bruery is dedicated to brewing a diverse range of innovative and high-quality beers using traditional brewing techniques and experimental ingredients. They specialize in barrel aging, wild fermentation, and blending, resulting in complex and nuanced flavors in their beers.

4. **Beer Selection**: The Bruery offers a wide range of beers, including barrel-aged ales, sour beers, experimental brews, and traditional styles with a modern twist. They are known for their extensive lineup of limited-edition and seasonal releases, as well as their membership-based societies that offer exclusive access to special releases and events.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The Bruery operates multiple taproom locations in Southern California, including their flagship location in Placentia and satellite locations in Anaheim and Washington, D.C. The taprooms provide a welcoming and inviting atmosphere, with a rotating selection of beers on tap, flights, and merchandise available for purchase.

6. **Distribution**: The Bruery distributes its beers both locally and nationally through its taproom locations, online store, and select retailers. They also offer a variety of membership-based societies that provide exclusive access to special releases, discounts, and events for members.

7. **Events and Collaborations**: The Bruery hosts various events throughout the year, including beer releases, tap takeovers, and special tasting events. They also collaborate with other breweries, businesses, and organizations to create unique beers and experiences for their customers.

Overall, The Bruery has earned widespread acclaim for its commitment to quality, innovation, and creativity in the craft beer scene. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or a casual drinker, a visit to The Bruery promises an exciting and memorable tasting experience.

#9 Casa Agria Specialty Ales – 4.10 average Untapped rating

Casa Agria Specialty Ales is a prominent craft brewery located in Oxnard, California, known for its focus on farmhouse and sour ales. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Casa Agria Specialty Ales:

1. **Location**: Casa Agria Specialty Ales is situated in Oxnard, a city in Ventura County, California. The brewery’s location provides access to locally sourced ingredients and a vibrant craft beer community in Southern California.

2. **Founding**: Casa Agria Specialty Ales was founded in 2015 by Evan and Blanca Rapport. The brewery was established with a vision to produce artisanal farmhouse and sour ales that reflect the terroir of the region and showcase the flavors of California agriculture.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Casa Agria Specialty Ales is dedicated to brewing a wide range of beers inspired by traditional farmhouse and sour ale styles. They focus on using locally sourced ingredients, including fruits, herbs, and spices, to create complex and nuanced flavors in their beers.

4. **Beer Selection**: Casa Agria Specialty Ales offers a diverse lineup of beers, including farmhouse ales, wild ales, sour beers, and barrel-aged specialties. They are known for their innovative approach to brewing, incorporating a variety of fermentation techniques and aging processes to produce unique and flavorful brews.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The taproom at Casa Agria Specialty Ales provides a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with rustic-chic decor and a focus on showcasing their diverse range of beers. Visitors can enjoy a rotating selection of beers on tap, including limited releases and taproom exclusives, while learning about the brewery’s production methods and philosophy.

6. **Distribution**: Casa Agria Specialty Ales primarily distributes its beers through its taproom location in Oxnard. They also offer limited distribution to select retailers, bars, and restaurants in California, allowing customers to enjoy their brews beyond the brewery.

7. **Events and Collaborations**: Casa Agria Specialty Ales occasionally hosts events such as beer releases, tap takeovers, and collaboration brews with other breweries. They also participate in beer festivals and community fundraisers, further engaging with their fan base and the local craft beer community.

Overall, Casa Agria Specialty Ales has gained recognition for its dedication to quality, innovation, and craftsmanship in the craft beer scene of Southern California. Whether you’re a fan of farmhouse and sour ales or simply curious about exploring new beer styles, a visit to Casa Agria Specialty Ales promises a unique and memorable tasting experience.

#8 Kings Brewing Company – 4.10 average Untapped rating

Kings Brewing Company is a renowned craft brewery located in Rancho Cucamonga, California, known for its diverse lineup of high-quality and innovative beers. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Kings Brewing Company:

1. **Location**: Kings Brewing Company is situated in Rancho Cucamonga, a city in San Bernardino County, California. The brewery’s location in the heart of the Inland Empire provides access to a diverse range of local ingredients and a growing craft beer community.

2. **Founding**: Kings Brewing Company was founded in 2015 by Jeremiah Cooper, Brendan Johnson, and William R. Holmes. The brewery was established with a mission to create unique and flavorful beers that push the boundaries of traditional brewing styles.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Kings Brewing Company is dedicated to brewing a wide range of beers that showcase creativity, quality, and craftsmanship. They focus on using high-quality ingredients and innovative brewing techniques to craft beers that appeal to a broad spectrum of beer enthusiasts.

4. **Beer Selection**: Kings Brewing Company offers a diverse lineup of beers, including hop-forward IPAs, rich stouts, crisp lagers, and experimental brews. They are known for their bold and flavorful beers that incorporate unique ingredients and flavor combinations.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The taproom at Kings Brewing Company provides a vibrant and inviting atmosphere, with industrial-chic decor and a focus on community and camaraderie. Visitors can enjoy a rotating selection of beers on tap, along with occasional food trucks, live music, or special events to enhance their tasting experience.

6. **Distribution**: Kings Brewing Company primarily distributes its beers through its taproom location in Rancho Cucamonga. They also offer limited distribution to select retailers, bars, and restaurants in Southern California, allowing customers to enjoy their brews beyond the brewery.

7. **Events and Collaborations**: Kings Brewing Company occasionally hosts events such as beer releases, tap takeovers, and collaboration brews with other breweries. They also participate in beer festivals and community fundraisers, further engaging with their fan base and the local craft beer community.

Overall, Kings Brewing Company has gained recognition for its dedication to quality, innovation, and community in the craft beer scene of Southern California. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or a casual drinker, a visit to Kings Brewing Company promises an enjoyable and memorable tasting experience.

 #7 Green Cheek Beer Company – 4.12 average Untapped rating

Green Cheek Beer Company is a prominent craft brewery located in Orange, California, known for its diverse range of high-quality beers. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Green Cheek Beer Company:

1. **Location**: Green Cheek Beer Company is situated in Orange, a city in Orange County, California. The brewery’s location provides access to a vibrant craft beer community and a diverse range of local ingredients.

2. **Founding**: Green Cheek Beer Company was founded in 2017 by Evan Price and Brian Rauso. Both co-founders bring extensive experience in the brewing industry, with a shared vision to create approachable yet innovative beers for beer enthusiasts.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Green Cheek Beer Company is dedicated to brewing a wide range of beers that showcase creativity, quality, and balance. They focus on using high-quality ingredients and precise brewing techniques to craft flavorful and well-crafted brews that appeal to a broad audience.

4. **Beer Selection**: Green Cheek Beer Company offers a diverse lineup of beers, including hoppy IPAs, crisp lagers, rich stouts, and experimental brews. They are known for their hop-forward beers that highlight the aromatic and flavorful qualities of hops, as well as their creative approach to brewing.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The taproom at Green Cheek Beer Company provides a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere, with a modern-industrial aesthetic and a focus on community and camaraderie. Visitors can enjoy a rotating selection of beers on tap, along with occasional food trucks or special events to enhance their tasting experience.

6. **Distribution**: Green Cheek Beer Company primarily distributes its beers through its taproom location in Orange. They also offer limited distribution to select retailers, bars, and restaurants in California, allowing customers to enjoy their brews beyond the brewery.

7. **Events and Collaborations**: Green Cheek Beer Company occasionally hosts events such as beer releases, tap takeovers, and collaboration brews with other breweries. They also participate in beer festivals and community fundraisers, further engaging with their fan base and the local craft beer community.

Overall, Green Cheek Beer Company has gained recognition for its dedication to quality, innovation, and community in the craft beer scene of Southern California. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or a casual drinker, a visit to Green Cheek Beer Company promises an enjoyable and memorable tasting experience.

#6 Homage Brewing – 4.12 average Untapped rating

Homage Brewing is a revered craft brewery located in Pomona, California, focusing on barrel-aged and wild ales. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Homage Brewing:

1. **Location**: Homage Brewing is situated in Pomona, a city in Los Angeles County, California. The brewery’s location provides access to local ingredients and a thriving craft beer community in Southern California.

2. **Founding**: Homage Brewing was founded in 2016 by Matthew Garcia. The brewery was established with a vision to pay homage to traditional brewing methods while exploring new and innovative flavors through barrel aging and wild fermentation.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Homage Brewing is dedicated to crafting artisanal beers using time-honored brewing techniques and a reverence for quality ingredients. They specialize in barrel aging and blending, utilizing a diverse array of barrels and fermentation cultures to create complex and nuanced flavors in their beers.

4. **Beer Selection**: Homage Brewing offers a diverse lineup of beers, including barrel-aged saisons, wild ales, sour beers, and blended specialties. They are known for their meticulous attention to detail and their commitment to producing high-quality, flavorful brews that reflect the terroir of their surroundings.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The taproom at Homage Brewing provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with rustic decor and a focus on barrel aging. Visitors can enjoy a rotating selection of beers on tap, including limited releases and taproom exclusives, while learning about the brewery’s production methods and philosophy.

6. **Distribution**: Homage Brewing primarily distributes its beers through its taproom location in Pomona. They occasionally offer online sales and special releases of their beers through their website, allowing customers to purchase their brews directly from the brewery.

7. **Events and Collaborations**: Homage Brewing occasionally hosts events such as bottle releases, tap takeovers, and blending workshops at their taproom. They also collaborate with other breweries and participate in beer festivals and events to showcase their beers to a wider audience.

Overall, Homage Brewing has gained recognition for its dedication to craftsmanship, innovation, and quality in the craft beer scene of Southern California. Whether you’re a fan of barrel-aged and wild ales or simply curious about exploring new beer styles, a visit to Homage Brewing promises a unique and memorable tasting experience.

#5 Cellador Ales – 4.12 average Untapped rating

Cellador Ales is a respected craft brewery located in North Hills, California, specializing in oak-aged and mixed fermentation beers. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Cellador Ales:

1. **Location**: Cellador Ales is situated in North Hills, a neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley region of Los Angeles, California. The brewery’s location provides access to a diverse range of local ingredients and a vibrant craft beer community.

2. **Founding**: Cellador Ales was founded in 2016 by Kevin Osborne and Sara Osborne. The brewery was born out of a passion for barrel aging and mixed fermentation, with a focus on exploring the complexities of wild and sour beer production.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Cellador Ales is dedicated to crafting artisanal beers using traditional brewing methods and innovative techniques. They specialize in oak aging and mixed fermentation, utilizing a variety of yeast and bacteria strains to create complex and nuanced flavors in their beers.

4. **Beer Selection**: Cellador Ales offers a diverse lineup of beers, including barrel-aged saisons, wild ales, sour beers, and blended specialties. They often experiment with different fruit additions, barrel types, and aging techniques to produce a wide range of unique and flavorful brews.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The taproom at Cellador Ales provides a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with rustic-chic decor and a focus on barrel aging. Visitors can enjoy a rotating selection of beers on tap, including limited releases and taproom exclusives, while learning about the brewery’s production methods and philosophy.

6. **Distribution**: Cellador Ales primarily distributes its beers through its taproom location in North Hills. They also offer online sales and periodic releases of specialty beers through their website, allowing customers to purchase their brews directly from the brewery.

7. **Events and Collaborations**: Cellador Ales occasionally hosts events such as bottle releases, tap takeovers, and blending workshops at their taproom. They also collaborate with other breweries and participate in beer festivals and events to showcase their beers to a wider audience.

Overall, Cellador Ales has gained recognition for its dedication to quality, craftsmanship, and innovation in the craft beer scene of Los Angeles and beyond. Whether you’re a fan of sour and wild ales or simply curious about exploring new beer styles, a visit to Cellador Ales promises a unique and memorable tasting experience.

 #4 Bottle Logic Brewing – 4.17 average Untapped rating

Bottle Logic Brewing is a renowned craft brewery located in Anaheim, California, known for its exceptional lineup of innovative and meticulously crafted beers. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Bottle Logic Brewing:

1. **Location**: Bottle Logic Brewing is situated in Anaheim, a city in Orange County, California. The brewery’s location in Southern California places it in proximity to a thriving craft beer community and access to quality ingredients.

2. **Founding**: Bottle Logic Brewing was founded in 2013 by Brandon Buckner, Steve Napolitano, Wes Parker, and Brian Strumke. The brewery was established with a vision to create boundary-pushing beers that blend science, art, and craftsmanship.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Bottle Logic Brewing is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of brewing innovation while staying true to traditional brewing techniques. They focus on using high-quality ingredients, precise brewing methods, and a passion for experimentation to create unique and flavorful beers.

4. **Beer Selection**: Bottle Logic Brewing offers an extensive lineup of beers across various styles, including hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, barrel-aged specialties, and sour ales. They are known for their diverse range of releases, including limited-edition barrel-aged series, experimental brews, and seasonal offerings.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The taproom at Bottle Logic Brewing provides a welcoming and inviting atmosphere, with industrial-chic decor and a laid-back vibe. Visitors can enjoy a rotating selection of beers on tap, along with occasional food trucks, live music, or special events to enhance their tasting experience.

6. **Distribution**: Bottle Logic Brewing primarily distributes its beers through its taproom location in Anaheim. They may also offer limited distribution to select retailers, bars, and restaurants in California, allowing customers to enjoy their brews beyond the brewery.

7. **Events and Collaborations**: Bottle Logic Brewing hosts various events throughout the year, including beer releases, tap takeovers, and collaboration brews with other breweries. They also participate in beer festivals and community fundraisers, further engaging with their fan base and the local craft beer community.

Overall, Bottle Logic Brewing has earned widespread acclaim for its commitment to quality, innovation, and creativity in the craft beer scene of Southern California. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or a casual drinker, a visit to Bottle Logic Brewing promises an exciting and memorable tasting experience.

#3 Electric Brewing Co – 4.28 average Untapped rating

Electric Brewing Co is a craft brewery located in Murrieta, California, known for its innovative approach to brewing and its diverse lineup of high-quality beers. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Electric Brewing Co:

1. **Location**: Electric Brewing Co is situated in Murrieta, a city in Riverside County, California. The brewery’s location in Southern California provides access to quality ingredients and a growing craft beer community.

2. **Founding**: Electric Brewing Co was founded by Chris Finch, a passionate homebrewer turned professional brewer. The brewery officially opened its doors in 2012, with a mission to create flavorful and inventive beers that appeal to a wide range of palates.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Electric Brewing Co is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of traditional brewing styles and experimenting with new and innovative ingredients and techniques. They focus on producing high-quality beers with bold flavors, balanced profiles, and a creative twist.

4. **Beer Selection**: Electric Brewing Co offers a diverse lineup of beers, including hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, crisp lagers, and experimental brews. They frequently rotate their beer menu to showcase new releases and seasonal offerings, keeping their taproom experience fresh and exciting for visitors.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The taproom at Electric Brewing Co provides a laid-back and inviting atmosphere, with industrial-chic decor and a focus on community and camaraderie. Visitors can enjoy a rotating selection of beers on tap, along with occasional food trucks or pop-up vendors offering snacks and meals.

6. **Distribution**: Electric Brewing Co primarily distributes its beers through its taproom location in Murrieta. They may also offer limited distribution to select retailers, bars, and restaurants in the Southern California region, allowing customers to enjoy their brews beyond the brewery.

7. **Events and Collaborations**: Electric Brewing Co occasionally hosts events such as beer releases, tap takeovers, and special tastings at their taproom. They may also collaborate with other breweries or participate in beer festivals and events to showcase their beers to a wider audience.

Overall, Electric Brewing Co has gained recognition for its commitment to quality, creativity, and innovation in the craft beer scene of Southern California. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or a casual drinker, a visit to Electric Brewing Co promises a memorable and enjoyable tasting experience.

 #2 Monkish Brewing Co – 4.30 average Untapped rating

Monkish Brewing Co is a highly regarded craft brewery located in Torrance, California, known for its exceptional lineup of Belgian-inspired and hop-forward beers. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Monkish Brewing Co:

1. **Location**: Monkish Brewing Co is situated in Torrance, a city in the South Bay region of Los Angeles County, California. The brewery’s location in Southern California provides access to quality ingredients and a diverse beer market.

2. **Founding**: Monkish Brewing Co was founded in 2012 by Henry Nguyen. Inspired by Belgian brewing traditions and a passion for creating innovative beers, Nguyen embarked on a journey to establish Monkish Brewing Co as a destination for craft beer enthusiasts.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Monkish Brewing Co is dedicated to brewing a wide range of Belgian-inspired and hop-forward beers. Their brewing philosophy combines traditional Belgian techniques with modern American craft brewing sensibilities, resulting in unique and flavorful brews. They often experiment with different yeast strains, malt varieties, and hop combinations to create balanced and nuanced beers.

4. **Beer Selection**: Monkish Brewing Co offers an eclectic lineup of beers, including Belgian-style ales, hazy IPAs, farmhouse ales, and barrel-aged specialties. Their beers are characterized by complex flavors, expressive yeast profiles, and a focus on balance and drinkability. Some of their popular releases may include “Foggier Window,” “Anomaly of Enigma,” and “Special Monkish.”

5. **Taproom Experience**: The taproom at Monkish Brewing Co provides a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere, with a rustic-chic decor and a community-focused vibe. Visitors can enjoy a rotating selection of beers on tap, along with occasional food trucks or pop-up vendors offering snacks and meals to complement their tasting experience.

6. **Distribution**: Monkish Brewing Co primarily distributes its beers through its taproom location in Torrance. They occasionally release cans or bottles of their beers for online sales, allowing customers to purchase their brews directly from the brewery’s website. Due to the limited nature of their releases and high demand, their beers can be challenging to find outside of their taproom or online sales.

7. **Events and Collaborations**: Monkish Brewing Co occasionally collaborates with other breweries or participates in beer festivals and events to showcase their beers. These collaborations and events provide opportunities for beer enthusiasts to discover and experience Monkish Brewing Co’s unique and sought-after brews.

Overall, Monkish Brewing Co has garnered widespread acclaim for its dedication to quality, innovation, and creativity in the craft beer scene of Southern California. Whether you’re a fan of Belgian-style ales, hazy IPAs, or farmhouse beers, a visit to Monkish Brewing Co promises an exciting and memorable tasting experience.

 #1 Horus Aged Ales – 4.35 average Untapped rating

Horus Aged Ales is a boutique craft brewery located in Oceanside, California, known for its meticulously crafted barrel-aged beers and limited releases. Here’s an overview covering various aspects of Horus Aged Ales:

1. **Location**: Horus Aged Ales operates out of Oceanside, California, in San Diego County. The brewery’s location in Southern California provides access to quality ingredients and a vibrant craft beer scene.

2. **Founding**: Horus Aged Ales was founded by Kyle Harrop, a passionate homebrewer turned professional brewer. The brewery officially launched in 2017, with a focus on producing small-batch, barrel-aged beers that push the boundaries of traditional brewing.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Horus Aged Ales is dedicated to creating unique and innovative beers through the art of barrel aging. They use a variety of barrels, including bourbon, whiskey, rum, and wine barrels, to impart complex flavors and aromas into their brews. The brewery’s approach to brewing emphasizes quality, creativity, and attention to detail.

4. **Beer Selection**: Horus Aged Ales offers a curated selection of barrel-aged beers, including stouts, barleywines, sours, and experimental brews. Their beers are often characterized by rich flavors, bold aromas, and a smooth, velvety mouthfeel. Some of their popular releases may include “Midnight Still,” “Beyond Good and Evil,” and “Koala Cupcakes.”

5. **Taproom Experience**: Horus Aged Ales does not have a traditional taproom. Instead, they release their beers through online sales and special events, allowing customers to purchase bottles directly from the brewery’s website or at select beer festivals and releases.

6. **Distribution**: Horus Aged Ales primarily distributes its beers through online sales and direct-to-consumer releases. They occasionally collaborate with other breweries or participate in beer festivals to showcase their brews to a wider audience. Due to the limited nature of their releases, their beers can be challenging to find outside of special events or online sales.

7. **Events and Collaborations**: Horus Aged Ales occasionally collaborates with other breweries or participates in beer festivals and events to showcase their beers. These collaborations and events provide opportunities for beer enthusiasts to discover and experience Horus Aged Ales’ unique brews.

Overall, Horus Aged Ales has gained a cult following among beer enthusiasts for its exceptional barrel-aged beers and commitment to quality and innovation. While they may not have a traditional taproom experience, their online releases and special events offer opportunities for fans to enjoy their sought-after brews.