Beer Explorer

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

#10 Akademia Brewing Company – 3.89 average Untapped rating

Akademia Brewing Company is a brewery and brewpub located in Athens, Georgia. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location**: Akademia Brewing Company is situated at 150 Crane Drive, Athens, GA 30606, in the western part of Athens, near the Athens-Ben Epps Airport.

2. **Founding**: Akademia Brewing Company was founded by Matt Casey, a former homebrewer and beer enthusiast, along with partners Morgan Wireman and David Pierce. The brewery opened its doors in 2017, aiming to combine Matt’s passion for brewing with Morgan and David’s culinary expertise to create a unique brewpub experience.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Akademia Brewing Company is dedicated to brewing innovative and high-quality craft beers that showcase a wide range of styles and flavors. They take inspiration from traditional brewing techniques while also experimenting with new ingredients and brewing methods to push the boundaries of flavor and creativity. Akademia prides itself on using locally sourced and organic ingredients whenever possible, and their brewing process emphasizes quality, consistency, and attention to detail.

4. **Beer Selection**: Akademia Brewing Company offers an extensive lineup of beers on tap, including a mix of year-round staples, seasonal releases, and limited-edition brews. Their diverse beer menu features a variety of styles, such as IPAs, stouts, porters, lagers, saisons, and barrel-aged beers. Akademia is known for its commitment to brewing classic styles with a modern twist, as well as producing innovative and experimental brews that appeal to beer enthusiasts of all preferences.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The taproom at Akademia Brewing Company provides a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere for guests to enjoy freshly brewed beers in a comfortable setting. The space features a spacious bar area, cozy seating options, and a laid-back ambiance that encourages socializing, conversation, and camaraderie among patrons. Visitors can also take a behind-the-scenes look at the brewery operations through guided tours and tastings led by knowledgeable staff members.

6. **Food**: In addition to its exceptional beer selection, Akademia Brewing Company offers a full-service kitchen that serves up a diverse menu of elevated pub fare and American cuisine. The brewpub specializes in hearty comfort food made from scratch using locally sourced ingredients and seasonal produce. Popular menu items include burgers, sandwiches, salads, appetizers, and entrees, as well as daily specials and chef’s creations. Akademia also hosts regular events, such as beer dinners, brewery tours, and tasting events, to showcase its culinary offerings and pairings.

7. **Distribution**: In addition to serving beer on-site at the brewpub, Akademia Brewing Company distributes its products to select retailers, bars, and restaurants throughout Georgia. Their canned and bottled beers are available for purchase at liquor stores, bottle shops, and grocery stores in the Athens area and beyond, allowing fans to enjoy their favorite brews at home or on the go.

Overall, Akademia Brewing Company is a beloved destination for craft beer enthusiasts and food lovers alike, offering a memorable dining and drinking experience in Athens, Georgia. With its dedication to quality, creativity, and community, the brewery continues to be a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking delicious beer and cuisine in a friendly and inviting atmosphere.

#9 Good Word Brewing & Public House – 3.90 average Untapped rating

Good Word Brewing and Public House is a brewery and gastropub located in Duluth, Georgia. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location**: Good Word Brewing and Public House is situated at 3085 Main St, Duluth, GA 30096, in the historic downtown district of Duluth.

2. **Founding**: The brewery was founded by Todd DiMatteo and Ryan Skinner. Good Word Brewing opened its doors in 2018, with the aim of providing a welcoming gathering place where people could enjoy high-quality craft beer and delicious food in a relaxed atmosphere.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Good Word Brewing focuses on brewing a diverse range of high-quality beers that appeal to a wide range of palates. They experiment with various styles, flavors, and brewing techniques to create unique and innovative brews while also paying homage to traditional beer styles. Good Word is known for its commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible and for maintaining high standards of quality and consistency in its brewing process.

4. **Beer Selection**: The brewery offers an ever-changing lineup of beers on tap, including a mix of classic styles and experimental brews. Some popular offerings from Good Word Brewing include IPAs, stouts, porters, sours, and barrel-aged beers. They often collaborate with other breweries and local businesses to create special releases and limited-edition brews. Additionally, Good Word Brewing produces a variety of seasonal and specialty beers throughout the year, providing patrons with new and exciting options to explore.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The taproom at Good Word Brewing and Public House provides a warm and inviting space for guests to enjoy freshly brewed beers in a casual setting. With its rustic decor, communal tables, and friendly staff, the taproom offers a cozy atmosphere for socializing, relaxing, and savoring craft beer. In addition to its indoor seating area, Good Word Brewing also features a spacious outdoor patio where patrons can soak up the sunshine and enjoy their drinks al fresco.

6. **Food**: Good Word Brewing and Public House offers a diverse menu of elevated pub fare, crafted with locally sourced ingredients and designed to pair perfectly with their beer selection. The kitchen serves up a variety of appetizers, sandwiches, salads, and entrees, with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and bold flavors. Popular menu items include burgers, wood-fired pizzas, tacos, and small plates. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are also available to accommodate dietary preferences.

7. **Distribution**: In addition to serving beer on-site at the taproom, Good Word Brewing distributes its products to select retailers, bars, and restaurants throughout Georgia. Their canned and bottled beers are available for purchase at liquor stores, bottle shops, and grocery stores in the greater Atlanta area, allowing fans to enjoy their favorite brews at home or on the go.

Overall, Good Word Brewing and Public House is a beloved destination for craft beer enthusiasts and food lovers alike. With its commitment to quality, creativity, and community, the brewery continues to be a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking a memorable dining and drinking experience in Duluth, Georgia.

#8 Three Taverns Brewery – 3.90 average Untapped rating

Three Taverns Brewery is a craft brewery located in Decatur, Georgia. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location**: Three Taverns Brewery is situated at 121 New St, Decatur, GA 30030, in the heart of downtown Decatur.

2. **Founding**: The brewery was founded by Brian Purcell, who was inspired by the rich history of brewing traditions and the sense of community found in Belgian monasteries. Three Taverns Brewery opened its doors in 2013 with a mission to create exceptional Belgian-style beers while fostering a welcoming environment for beer enthusiasts.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Three Taverns Brewery is renowned for its commitment to brewing traditional Belgian-style ales with a modern twist. They draw inspiration from classic Belgian brewing techniques and use high-quality ingredients to craft a diverse range of beers that showcase complexity, balance, and depth of flavor.

4. **Beer Selection**: The brewery offers a wide variety of Belgian-style beers, including saisons, tripels, quadrupels, and specialty releases. Some popular beers from Three Taverns Brewery include A Night on Ponce IPA, Rapturous Raspberry Sour Ale, and Inceptus American Wild Ale. They also produce limited-edition barrel-aged and sour beers, adding to the diversity of their lineup.

5. **Taproom Experience**: Three Taverns Brewery’s taproom provides a warm and inviting space for guests to enjoy their beers. With its cozy ambiance, rustic decor, and friendly staff, the taproom offers a relaxed setting for patrons to sample a variety of brews, engage in conversation, and learn about the brewing process. The brewery occasionally hosts events, live music performances, and food truck pop-ups to enhance the overall experience for visitors.

6. **Food**: While Three Taverns Brewery does not have a kitchen, they often partner with local food vendors to offer a selection of snacks and light bites to complement their beers. Guests are also welcome to bring in their own food or order delivery from nearby restaurants to enjoy alongside their brews.

7. **Distribution**: In addition to serving beers on-site at the taproom, Three Taverns Brewery distributes its products to retailers, bars, and restaurants throughout Georgia and select locations in neighboring states. Their canned and bottled beers are readily available at liquor stores and specialty beer shops, allowing fans to enjoy their favorite brews at home.

Overall, Three Taverns Brewery has earned a reputation for its dedication to quality, innovation, and craftsmanship. With its focus on Belgian-style ales and commitment to community engagement, the brewery continues to be a beloved destination for beer lovers in Decatur and beyond.

#7 Cherry Street Brewing – 3.92 average Untapped rating

Cherry Street Brewing, located in Cumming, Georgia, is a well-regarded craft brewery known for its diverse selection of high-quality beers and welcoming brewpub atmosphere. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location**: Cherry Street Brewing operates out of a brewpub located at 5810 Bond St, Cumming, GA 30040, in the heart of downtown Cumming.

2. **Founding**: Cherry Street Brewing was founded by Nick Tanner, a passionate homebrewer turned professional brewer. The brewery opened its doors in 2012, and since then, it has become a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: The brewery’s philosophy revolves around crafting innovative and flavorful beers using traditional brewing techniques and quality ingredients. Cherry Street Brewing takes pride in its commitment to brewing excellence and continually strives to push the boundaries of beer styles and flavors.

4. **Beer Selection**: Cherry Street Brewing offers a diverse lineup of beers, ranging from classic styles to creative and experimental brews. Their rotating tap list typically includes a variety of IPAs, stouts, porters, sours, and seasonal offerings. Some popular beers from Cherry Street Brewing include Coconut Porter, West LA Hopaway IPA, and Steppin’ Razor Jamaican Lager.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The brewpub provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy their beers. With its rustic decor, friendly staff, and laid-back vibe, Cherry Street Brewing’s taproom is the perfect place to relax, socialize, and savor craft brews. The brewpub often hosts events, live music performances, and brewery tours to enhance the overall experience for patrons.

6. **Food**: In addition to its exceptional beer selection, Cherry Street Brewing offers a full food menu featuring a variety of delicious options. From artisanal pizzas and gourmet burgers to hearty sandwiches and salads, the brewpub’s menu complements its beer offerings and provides guests with a satisfying dining experience.

7. **Distribution**: While Cherry Street Brewing primarily serves its beers on-site at the brewpub, they occasionally distribute limited quantities of canned or bottled beers to select retailers in the area. However, the focus remains on providing an exceptional taproom experience for guests.

Overall, Cherry Street Brewing has established itself as a premier destination for craft beer enthusiasts in the Cumming area. With its dedication to quality, creativity, and community engagement, the brewery continues to delight customers and contribute to the vibrant craft beer scene in Georgia.

#6 Wrecking Bar Brewing – 3.95 average Untapped rating

Wrecking Bar Brewpub is a renowned craft brewery located in Atlanta, Georgia. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location**: Wrecking Bar Brewpub is situated at 292 Moreland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307, in the historic Little Five Points neighborhood.

2. **Founding**: The brewpub was founded in 2011 by Bob and Kristine Sandage. It is housed in a restored Victorian-style building that was formerly a historic home.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Wrecking Bar Brewpub is dedicated to producing high-quality, innovative craft beers that showcase a variety of styles and flavors. They focus on using locally sourced and sustainable ingredients whenever possible, and their brewing philosophy emphasizes creativity, experimentation, and attention to detail.

4. **Beer Selection**: The brewpub offers a diverse selection of house-brewed beers, including a rotating lineup of seasonal and specialty brews alongside their core offerings. They brew a wide range of styles, such as IPAs, stouts, porters, sours, and Belgian-style ales, often incorporating unique ingredients and flavor profiles. Some of their popular beers include Jemmy Stout, Hopback Mountain Double IPA, and MexiCali Lager.

5. **Taproom Experience**: Wrecking Bar Brewpub provides a welcoming and inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy their beers. The brewpub features a spacious dining area, a cozy bar, and an outdoor patio, creating a comfortable setting for patrons to socialize, dine, and sample a variety of craft beers. The interior design combines historic charm with modern aesthetics, showcasing the building’s architectural features and incorporating contemporary elements.

6. **Food**: In addition to their craft beers, Wrecking Bar Brewpub offers a full food menu featuring creative, elevated pub fare. Their menu highlights locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, with dishes ranging from appetizers and sandwiches to hearty entrees and shareable plates. The brewpub’s culinary offerings complement their beer selection and provide guests with a complete dining experience.

7. **Distribution**: While Wrecking Bar Brewpub primarily serves its beers on-site at the brewpub, they occasionally release limited quantities of canned or bottled beers for distribution to select retailers. However, the focus remains on providing a unique and immersive beer-drinking experience for guests visiting the brewpub.

Overall, Wrecking Bar Brewpub has earned acclaim for its exceptional craft beers, culinary offerings, and welcoming atmosphere. With its commitment to quality, creativity, and community involvement, the brewpub has become a beloved destination for beer enthusiasts and food lovers alike in the Atlanta area.

#5 Creature Comforts Brewing Co – 3.98 average Untapped rating

Creature Comforts Brewing Co is a well-known craft brewery located in Athens, Georgia. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location**: Creature Comforts Brewing Co is situated at 271 W Hancock Ave, Athens, GA 30601, in the heart of downtown Athens.

2. **Founding**: The brewery was founded in April 2014 by David Stein, Adam Beauchamp, and Chris Herron. 

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Creature Comforts is committed to brewing innovative, high-quality beers that celebrate creativity, community, and culture. They focus on producing a diverse range of styles, including IPAs, stouts, saisons, and sour ales, often incorporating locally sourced ingredients and collaborating with local artisans and producers. Sustainability and environmental stewardship are also integral to their brewing philosophy.

4. **Beer Selection**: Creature Comforts offers a wide variety of beers, including year-round staples, seasonal releases, and limited-edition specialty brews. Some of their flagship beers include Tropicalia IPA, Athena Berliner Weisse, and Bibo Pilsner. They also produce a range of rotating and seasonal offerings, such as stouts, pale ales, and experimental sour ales, often featuring unique flavor profiles and innovative brewing techniques.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The brewery’s taproom provides a welcoming and vibrant space for visitors to enjoy their beers. With its modern, industrial-inspired design, spacious seating areas, and lively atmosphere, the taproom offers a comfortable setting for socializing and beer tasting. Guests can sample a variety of beers on draft, purchase cans or bottles to go, and engage with knowledgeable staff members who are passionate about craft beer.

6. **Community Engagement**: Creature Comforts is actively involved in supporting and contributing to the local community. They regularly host events, fundraisers, and charitable initiatives to benefit nonprofit organizations, community groups, and causes. Additionally, they collaborate with local artists, musicians, and businesses to promote creativity and cultural enrichment.

7. **Distribution**: Creature Comforts distributes its beers throughout Georgia and select markets in neighboring states. Their products can be found in bars, restaurants, specialty bottle shops, and grocery stores, allowing fans to enjoy their beers both on-site at the brewery and in the comfort of their own homes.

Overall, Creature Comforts Brewing Co has garnered acclaim for its commitment to quality, innovation, and community involvement. With its diverse range of flavorful beers, inviting taproom atmosphere, and dedication to sustainability and social responsibility, the brewery has become a beloved fixture in the Georgia craft beer scene.

#4 Halfway Crooks Beer – 3.99 average Untapped rating

Halfway Crooks Beer is a notable craft brewery located in Atlanta, Georgia. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location**: Halfway Crooks Beer is situated at 60 Georgia Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312, in the Summerhill neighborhood.

2. **Founding**: The brewery was established by Shawn Bainbridge, Joran Van Ginderachter, and Tim Kilic in 2019. 

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Halfway Crooks Beer is dedicated to producing meticulously crafted, European-inspired beers. The brewery draws inspiration from traditional brewing techniques and beer styles from Europe, particularly those of Belgium, Germany, and the Czech Republic. They prioritize quality ingredients, precise brewing methods, and attention to detail to create balanced and flavorful beers.

4. **Beer Selection**: Halfway Crooks Beer offers a diverse lineup of beers, including lagers, pilsners, saisons, and other European-style ales. They are known for their commitment to brewing classic styles with a modern twist, often experimenting with unique ingredients and innovative brewing processes. Some of their popular offerings include Helles Lager, Czech-style Pilsner, Belgian-style Saison, and various rotating seasonal and specialty releases.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The brewery’s taproom provides a cozy and inviting environment for patrons to enjoy their beers. With its minimalist design, communal seating, and friendly staff, the taproom offers a relaxed atmosphere conducive to socializing and beer appreciation. Visitors can sample a selection of draft beers, purchase cans or growlers to go, and engage with the brewery’s team to learn more about their brewing process and philosophy.

6. **Distribution**: While Halfway Crooks Beer primarily serves customers directly from their taproom, they also distribute their beers to select bars, restaurants, and retailers in the Atlanta area. Additionally, they occasionally participate in beer festivals and events, allowing them to showcase their brews to a broader audience.

Overall, Halfway Crooks Beer has gained recognition for its dedication to producing high-quality, European-inspired beers and providing a welcoming space for beer enthusiasts to gather and enjoy craft beer. Their commitment to authenticity, craftsmanship, and community engagement has contributed to their success in Atlanta’s vibrant craft beer scene.

#3 Two Tides Brewing Co – 4.01 average Untapped rating

Two Tides Brewing Co is a craft brewery located in Savannah, Georgia. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location**: Two Tides Brewing Co is situated at 12 W 41st St, Savannah, GA 31401, in the heart of the city’s Historic District.

2. **Founding**: The brewery was founded by James Massey and Lizzy Johnston, who share a passion for brewing exceptional beers. Two Tides Brewing Co opened its doors in 2018, quickly establishing itself as a prominent player in Savannah’s craft beer scene.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: The brewery’s philosophy revolves around innovation, quality, and creativity. Two Tides Brewing Co is known for its experimental approach to brewing, constantly pushing boundaries and exploring new flavor profiles. They prioritize using high-quality ingredients and meticulous brewing techniques to craft unique and memorable beers.

4. **Beer Selection**: Two Tides Brewing Co offers a diverse lineup of beers, including a variety of IPAs, stouts, sours, and specialty brews. Their rotating tap list features both core offerings and limited releases, ensuring there’s always something new and exciting to try. Some popular beers from Two Tides Brewing Co include High Water IPA, Driftwood Oatmeal Stout, and Shore Leave Gose.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The brewery’s taproom provides a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere for guests to enjoy their beers. With its industrial-chic decor, cozy seating areas, and friendly staff, Two Tides Brewing Co’s taproom is the perfect spot to unwind and socialize with friends. The brewery occasionally hosts events, live music performances, and food truck pop-ups to enhance the overall experience for patrons.

6. **Food**: While Two Tides Brewing Co does not have a kitchen, they often partner with local food trucks to offer a rotating selection of delicious eats to accompany their beers. Guests are welcome to bring in their own food or order delivery from nearby restaurants to enjoy alongside their brews.

7. **Distribution**: Two Tides Brewing Co primarily focuses on serving its beers on-site at the taproom. However, they may occasionally distribute limited quantities of canned or bottled beers to select retailers in the Savannah area.

Overall, Two Tides Brewing Co has garnered a strong reputation for its commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. With its eclectic beer selection and welcoming taproom atmosphere, the brewery continues to attract beer enthusiasts from near and far, contributing to Savannah’s thriving craft beer scene.

#2 Wild Leaps Brew Co – 4.02 average Untapped rating

Wild Leap Brew Co is a well-known craft brewery based in LaGrange, Georgia. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location**: Wild Leap Brew Co is located at 308 Main St, LaGrange, GA 30240. LaGrange is a city in western Georgia.

2. **Founding**: The brewery was founded by Rob Goldstein and Anthony Rodriguez. It officially opened its doors in 2017.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Wild Leap Brew Co focuses on creating high-quality craft beers that push the boundaries of traditional styles. They emphasize creativity, innovation, and quality ingredients in their brewing process. The brewery strives to craft beers that are approachable yet flavorful, appealing to both seasoned craft beer enthusiasts and newcomers to the craft beer scene.

4. **Beer Selection**: Wild Leap Brew Co offers a diverse range of beers across various styles, including IPAs, stouts, lagers, sours, and more. Some of their flagship beers include “Alpha Abstraction” series of Double IPAs, “Truck Chaser Creamsicle IPA,” and “Rolling Deep” oatmeal stout. They also regularly release seasonal and limited-edition brews, keeping their beer lineup fresh and exciting.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The brewery’s taproom provides a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere for visitors to enjoy their beers. With its industrial-chic decor, spacious seating areas, and friendly staff, the taproom is a popular destination for locals and beer enthusiasts alike. Guests can sample a variety of beers on tap, purchase cans or growlers to go, and participate in brewery tours and events.

6. **Distribution**: In addition to serving customers directly from their taproom, Wild Leap Brew Co distributes its beers to bars, restaurants, and retailers across Georgia and select markets in neighboring states. They also participate in beer festivals and events to showcase their brews to a wider audience.

Overall, Wild Leap Brew Co has garnered praise for its commitment to quality, innovation, and community engagement within the craft beer industry. Their diverse lineup of flavorful beers and vibrant taproom experience have made them a standout brewery in Georgia’s craft beer scene.

#1 Variant Brewing Company – 4.11 average Untapped rating

Variant Brewing Company is a craft brewery located in Roswell, Georgia. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location**: Variant Brewing Company is situated in Roswell, a city in the northern suburbs of Atlanta, Georgia. The brewery’s address is 66 Norcross Street, Suite 125, Roswell, GA 30075.

2. **Founding**: Variant Brewing Company was founded by Matt Curling and Michael Kondyra. It officially opened its doors in 2017.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: The brewery is known for its innovative and diverse lineup of craft beers. Variant Brewing Company strives to push the boundaries of traditional brewing styles while maintaining a focus on quality and consistency. They experiment with different ingredients, brewing techniques, and flavor profiles to create unique and memorable brews.

4. **Beer Selection**: Variant Brewing Company offers a rotating selection of beers across various styles, including IPAs, stouts, sours, lagers, and more. They often release limited-edition and seasonal brews, providing customers with a constantly changing array of options to explore.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The taproom at Variant Brewing Company provides a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere for guests to enjoy their beers. With its industrial-chic decor, comfortable seating, and friendly staff, the taproom is a popular gathering spot for craft beer enthusiasts in the Roswell area. Visitors can sample a variety of beers on tap, purchase cans or growlers to go, and engage with the brewery’s staff to learn more about their brewing process and philosophy.

6. **Distribution**: In addition to serving customers directly from their taproom, Variant Brewing Company distributes its beers to select bars, restaurants, and retailers in the Atlanta metro area. They also participate in beer festivals and events, allowing them to showcase their brews to a wider audience.

Overall, Variant Brewing Company has quickly gained a reputation for its commitment to quality, innovation, and community engagement within the Georgia craft beer scene.