Beer Explorer

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

#5 Woodland Empire Ale Craft – 3.72 average Untapped rating

Here’s an overview of Woodland Empire Ale Craft in Idaho:

1. **Location:**

  – Woodland Empire Ale Craft is located in Boise, Idaho, at 1114 W Front St, Boise, ID 83702.

  – Situated in the historic district of downtown Boise, the brewery enjoys a central location that is easily accessible to locals and visitors alike.

2. **Founding:**

  – Woodland Empire Ale Craft was founded in 2014 by Rob and Keely Landerman, along with owners Matt and Keely Hurlbutt.

  – The brewery’s founders sought to create a space where they could express their creativity and passion for craft beer while contributing to Boise’s vibrant beer culture.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:**

  – Woodland Empire Ale Craft is dedicated to producing small-batch, handcrafted beers that showcase innovation, quality, and creativity.

  – They prioritize using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible and embrace experimentation to create unique and flavorful brews.

4. **Beer Selection:**

  – Woodland Empire Ale Craft offers a diverse lineup of beers, including a variety of styles such as IPAs, stouts, sours, and barrel-aged brews.

  – Their beer selection often features seasonal and limited-edition releases, keeping patrons excited to try something new with each visit.

5. **Taproom Experience:**

  – The taproom at Woodland Empire Ale Craft provides a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for guests to enjoy craft beer and socialize with friends.

  – Visitors can relax in the rustic-chic ambiance of the taproom, which features exposed brick walls, wooden accents, and communal seating.

  – The brewery occasionally hosts events such as live music performances, beer release parties, and art shows, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the taproom.

6. **Distribution:**

  – Woodland Empire Ale Craft distributes its beers locally in Boise, making them available at select bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout the city.

  – While their distribution may primarily focus on the Boise area, their reputation for quality craft beer has garnered attention beyond Idaho’s borders.

Overall, Woodland Empire Ale Craft is a cherished member of the Boise craft beer community, known for its commitment to craftsmanship, creativity, and community engagement. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy a delicious brew in a welcoming environment, a visit to Woodland Empire Ale Craft promises a memorable experience.

#4 Boise Brewing – 3.74 average Untapped rating

Here’s an overview of Boise Brewing in Idaho:

1. **Location:**

  – Boise Brewing is located in the heart of downtown Boise, Idaho, at 521 W Broad St, Boise, ID 83702.

  – Its central location makes it easily accessible to both locals and visitors exploring the city.

2. **Founding:**

  – Boise Brewing was founded in 2012 by Collin Rudeen, who sought to create a community-focused brewery that embodies the spirit of Boise.

  – The brewery has since become a staple of the local craft beer scene, known for its dedication to quality and sustainability.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:**

  – Boise Brewing is committed to brewing high-quality, handcrafted beer using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.

  – They prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility, implementing eco-friendly practices in their brewing process and operations.

4. **Beer Selection:**

  – Boise Brewing offers a diverse selection of beers, including a variety of styles such as IPAs, ales, stouts, and seasonal brews.

  – They regularly rotate their beer offerings, ensuring a fresh and exciting experience for visitors with each visit to the taproom.

5. **Taproom Experience:**

  – The taproom at Boise Brewing provides a warm and inviting atmosphere for patrons to enjoy craft beer with friends and fellow beer enthusiasts.

  – Visitors can relax in the cozy indoor seating area or enjoy the outdoor patio during warmer months.

  – The brewery often hosts events such as trivia nights, live music performances, and community fundraisers, fostering a sense of camaraderie among guests.

6. **Distribution:**

  – Boise Brewing distributes its beers throughout Idaho, making them available at select bars, restaurants, and retailers across the state.

Overall, Boise Brewing is a beloved fixture of the Boise craft beer scene, known for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and community involvement. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the area, a trip to Boise Brewing promises a memorable craft beer experience.

#3 Western Collective Brewery – 3.80 average Untapped rating

Here’s an overview of Western Collective Brewing in Idaho:

1.  **Location:**

  – Western Collective Brewing is situated in Boise, Idaho, contributing to the vibrant craft beer scene of the city.

  – The exact address is 111 W 33rd St, Boise, ID 83714.

2. **Founding:**

  – Western Collective Brewing was founded in 2018 by Jake Lake and Jake Black, who aimed to bring innovative and high-quality craft beer to Boise and beyond.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:**

  – The brewery emphasizes creativity and innovation in its brewing process, often experimenting with unique ingredients and techniques to create distinct and flavorful beers.

  – They are committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility, seeking to minimize their ecological footprint through eco-friendly practices.

4. **Beer Selection:**

  – Western Collective offers a diverse range of beer styles, including IPAs, stouts, sours, lagers, and more.

  – Their beer selection often includes both classic styles and experimental brews, catering to a wide range of tastes.

5. **Taproom Experience:**

  – The taproom at Western Collective provides a welcoming and lively atmosphere for patrons to enjoy craft beer.

  – Visitors can expect a rotating selection of beers on tap, along with occasional special releases and collaborations.

  – The taproom frequently hosts events such as live music performances, food truck gatherings, and beer release parties, fostering a sense of community among beer enthusiasts.

6. **Distribution:**

  – Western Collective distributes its beers both locally and regionally, allowing fans to enjoy their brews beyond the confines of the taproom.

  – Their beers can be found in select bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Idaho and potentially in neighboring states as well.

Overall, Western Collective Brewing is a dynamic and innovative brewery in Boise, Idaho, offering an exceptional craft beer experience to locals and visitors alike.

#2 Mother Earth Brewing Company – 3.82 average Untapped rating

Mother Earth Brewing Company is a craft brewery located in Nampa, Idaho. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location**: Mother Earth Brewing Company is situated at 1428 Madison Ave, Nampa, ID 83687.

2. **Founding**: Mother Earth Brewing Company was founded in 2008 by Daniel Love and Kamron Khannakhjavani. Originally based in Vista, California, the brewery expanded its operations to Nampa, Idaho, in 2017. The Idaho location serves as a production facility, taproom, and event space.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Mother Earth Brewing Company is committed to producing high-quality craft beer using sustainable practices and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. The brewery takes pride in its environmentally friendly approach to brewing and its dedication to minimizing its ecological footprint. Mother Earth Brewing is known for its diverse lineup of beers, which includes a variety of styles ranging from IPAs and stouts to lagers and sour ales.

4. **Beer Selection**: Mother Earth Brewing Company offers a wide range of beers that cater to different tastes and preferences. Their core lineup includes popular offerings such as “Cali Creamin’,” a vanilla cream ale, and “Boo Koo,” a West Coast-style IPA. In addition to their year-round beers, Mother Earth Brewing also produces seasonal and limited-edition releases, as well as specialty barrel-aged and sour beers.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The taproom at Mother Earth Brewing Company provides a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere where patrons can enjoy fresh beer, live music, and community events. The spacious taproom features a rustic industrial design with comfortable seating, a bar area, and an outdoor patio. Visitors can sample a variety of Mother Earth beers on tap, purchase merchandise, and participate in brewery tours and tasting events.

7. **Distribution**: Mother Earth Brewing Company distributes its beers to select retailers, bars, and restaurants across Idaho and beyond. Their canned and bottled beers can be found at specialty bottle shops, craft beer bars, grocery stores, and other locations throughout the region, allowing fans to enjoy their favorite Mother Earth brews outside of the brewery.

Overall, Mother Earth Brewing Company is celebrated for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and community involvement. With its diverse beer selection, inviting taproom, and dedication to environmental stewardship, Mother Earth Brewing continues to be a beloved destination for craft beer enthusiasts in Nampa and beyond.

#1 Barbarian Brewing – 3.90 average Untapped rating

Barbarian Brewing is a craft brewery located in Boise, Idaho. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location**: Barbarian Brewing has two locations in Boise, Idaho. One is situated at 5270 W Chinden Blvd, Garden City, ID 83714, and the other is located at 1022 W Main St, Boise, ID 83702.

2. **Founding**: Barbarian Brewing was founded in 2015 by James Long and BreAnne Hovley. The brewery was born out of their passion for brewing unique and innovative beers that push the boundaries of traditional styles. They are known for their experimental approach to brewing and their commitment to using high-quality ingredients.

3. **Brewing Philosophy**: Barbarian Brewing is dedicated to crafting bold and adventurous beers that showcase creativity, craftsmanship, and quality. The brewery specializes in barrel-aged and sour beers, as well as hop-forward styles, Belgian-inspired ales, and experimental brews. They take pride in their hands-on approach to brewing and their willingness to experiment with different ingredients, techniques, and flavor combinations.

4. **Beer Selection**: Barbarian Brewing offers a diverse lineup of beers that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Their rotating tap list typically features an array of styles, including IPAs, sours, stouts, saisons, and barrel-aged beers. Some of their popular offerings include “Sour IPA,” “Barrel-Aged Stout,” “Fruited Sour,” and “Belgian Tripel.” Barbarian Brewing is known for their commitment to quality and their willingness to take risks and innovate in the world of craft beer.

5. **Taproom Experience**: The taprooms at Barbarian Brewing provide a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere where patrons can enjoy fresh beer, good company, and lively conversation. Both locations feature comfortable seating, rustic decor, and a friendly staff that is passionate about beer and hospitality. Visitors can sample a variety of Barbarian beers on tap, purchase bottles and cans to go, and engage with knowledgeable bartenders who are happy to share their expertise and recommendations.

6. **Distribution**: In addition to serving beer at their taprooms, Barbarian Brewing distributes their beers to select retailers, bars, and restaurants throughout Idaho. Their canned and bottled beers can be found at specialty bottle shops, craft beer bars, and grocery stores in various cities and towns across the state, allowing fans to enjoy their favorite Barbarian brews outside of the brewery.

Overall, Barbarian Brewing is celebrated for its innovative approach to brewing, its dedication to quality and craftsmanship, and its commitment to the local community. With their diverse beer selection, welcoming taprooms, and active involvement in local affairs, Barbarian Brewing continues to be a beloved destination for craft beer enthusiasts and community members alike.