Beer Explorer

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

#11 Fat Orange Cat Brew Co – 3.96 average Untapped rating

Fat Orange Brewing Co. is a craft brewery located in the town of North Haven, Connecticut. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** Fat Orange Brewing Co. is situated at 15 1/2 Bartlett Avenue, North Haven, CT 06473.

2. **Founding:** Fat Orange Brewing Co. was founded by Eric Edgerton and his wife in 2014. It is a family-owned brewery that has gained popularity for its handcrafted beers and inviting atmosphere.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** The brewery is dedicated to producing high-quality craft beers that showcase a variety of styles and flavors. They prioritize using fresh and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible and are known for their attention to detail in the brewing process.

4. **Beer Selection:** Fat Orange Brewing Co. offers a diverse selection of beers, including a variety of IPAs, stouts, porters, lagers, and seasonal specialties. They are known for their creative approach to brewing, often experimenting with unique ingredients and flavor profiles to create distinctive beers.

5. **Taproom Experience:** The taproom at Fat Orange Brewing Co. provides a welcoming and laid-back environment for guests to enjoy a selection of craft beers. With a cozy and rustic ambiance, it’s the perfect spot to relax with friends or family. Visitors can sample beers directly from the source, enjoy board games or live music, and engage with the friendly staff.

6. **Distribution:** In addition to serving beer on-site at their taproom, Fat Orange Brewing Co. distributes its products to various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Connecticut. They also participate in local beer festivals and events, allowing beer enthusiasts to sample their beers outside of the brewery.

Overall, Fat Orange Brewing Co. offers a delightful brewing experience in North Haven, with a focus on quality, creativity, and community. Whether you’re a local resident or just passing through, it’s worth stopping by to explore their flavorful and innovative beers.

#10 Tribus Beer Co – 3.97 average Untapped rating

Tribus Beer Co. is a well-known craft brewery located in Milford, Connecticut. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** Tribus Beer Co. is situated at 100 Raton Dr, Milford, CT 06461, in the southern part of Connecticut.

2. **Founding:** Tribus Beer Co. was founded by brothers Sean and Pat McVeigh, along with long-time friend, head brewer and now co-owner Matt Weichner, in 2017. The brewery has rapidly gained popularity for its innovative beers and vibrant taproom.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** Tribus Beer Co. is committed to brewing a wide range of high-quality and flavorful beers. They focus on using top-notch ingredients and innovative brewing techniques to create beers that push the boundaries of traditional styles while maintaining drinkability and balance.

4. **Beer Selection:** The brewery offers an extensive lineup of beers, including a variety of IPAs, stouts, porters, sours, and seasonal specialties. They are known for their commitment to quality and consistency, with each beer meticulously crafted and thoroughly enjoyed by patrons. Tribus Beer Co. frequently releases new and limited-edition beers, keeping their tap list fresh and exciting.

5. **Taproom Experience:** The taproom at Tribus Beer Co. provides a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for guests to enjoy a selection of craft beers. With a modern and industrial design, it’s the perfect place to relax with friends or make new ones. Visitors can sample beers directly from the source, participate in brewery tours, enjoy food trucks, and attend events and live music performances.

6. **Distribution:** In addition to serving beer on-site at their taproom, Tribus Beer Co. distributes its products to various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Connecticut. They also participate in beer festivals and events, allowing beer enthusiasts to sample their beers outside of the brewery.

Overall, Tribus Beer Co. offers a dynamic and enjoyable brewing experience in Milford, with a focus on quality, innovation, and community. Whether you’re a local resident or just passing through, it’s definitely worth a visit for beer enthusiasts looking to explore new flavors and styles in a lively and welcoming environment.

#9 Little House Brewing Company – 3.97 average Untapped rating

Little House Brewing Company is a craft brewery located in Chester, Connecticut. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** Little House Brewing Company is situated at 16 Main St, Chester, CT 06412, in the charming town of Chester along the Connecticut River.

2. **Founding:** Little House Brewing Company was founded by Carlisle Schaeffer and Sam Wagner in 2016. The brewery has quickly gained a reputation for its dedication to crafting high-quality, small-batch beers.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** Little House Brewing Company is committed to producing unique and flavorful beers that showcase the creativity and craftsmanship of the brewers. They focus on using high-quality ingredients, innovative brewing techniques, and a meticulous attention to detail to create beers that are both approachable and distinctive.

4. **Beer Selection:** The brewery offers a diverse lineup of beers, including a variety of IPAs, stouts, porters, lagers, and seasonal specialties. They are known for their commitment to quality and consistency, with each beer crafted with care and precision. Little House Brewing Company frequently releases new and limited-edition beers, ensuring that there’s always something new and exciting to try for beer enthusiasts.

5. **Taproom Experience:** The taproom at Little House Brewing Company provides a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for guests to enjoy a selection of craft beers. With a rustic and inviting ambiance, it’s the perfect place to relax with friends or family. Visitors can sample beers directly from the source, enjoy board games and events, and chat with the friendly staff.

6. **Distribution:** In addition to serving beer on-site at their taproom, Little House Brewing Company distributes its products to various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Connecticut. They also participate in beer festivals and events, allowing beer enthusiasts to sample their beers outside of the brewery.

Overall, Little House Brewing Company offers a delightful and enjoyable brewing experience in Chester, with a focus on quality, creativity, and community. Whether you’re a local resident or just passing through, it’s definitely worth a visit for beer enthusiasts looking to explore new flavors and styles in a quaint New England setting.

#8 Lasting Brass Brewing Co – 4.02 average Untapped rating

Lasting Brass Brewing Co. is a craft brewery located in Waterbury, Connecticut. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** Lasting Brass Brewing Co. is situated at 454 Middlebury Rd, Unit B, Middlebury, CT 06762, in the town of Middlebury, close to Waterbury.

2. **Founding:** Lasting Brass Brewing Co. was founded by Christopher Sanzeni in 2016. The brewery has quickly gained recognition for its dedication to brewing high-quality, flavorful beers.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** Lasting Brass Brewing Co. is committed to crafting a diverse range of beers with a focus on quality and innovation. They aim to create beers that are both approachable and distinctive, using traditional brewing techniques and creative flavor combinations.

4. **Beer Selection:** The brewery offers a rotating selection of beers, including a variety of IPAs, stouts, porters, lagers, and seasonal specialties. They are known for their commitment to quality and consistency, with each beer crafted with care and attention to detail. Lasting Brass Brewing Co. frequently releases new and limited-edition beers, ensuring that there’s always something new and exciting to try for beer enthusiasts.

5. **Taproom Experience:** The taproom at Lasting Brass Brewing Co. provides a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere for guests to enjoy a selection of craft beers. With a cozy and inviting ambiance, it’s the perfect place to unwind with friends or meet other beer enthusiasts. Visitors can sample beers directly from the source, enjoy board games and events, and learn more about the brewing process from the friendly staff.

6. **Distribution:** In addition to serving beer on-site at their taproom, Lasting Brass Brewing Co. distributes its products to various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Connecticut. They also participate in beer festivals and events, allowing beer enthusiasts to sample their beers outside of the brewery.

Overall, Lasting Brass Brewing Co. offers a enjoyable brewing experience in Middlebury, with a focus on quality, creativity, and community. Whether you’re a local resident or just passing through, it’s definitely worth a visit for beer enthusiasts looking to explore new flavors and styles.

#7 New England Brewing Co – 4.04 average Untapped rating

New England Brewing Co. is a prominent craft brewery located in Woodbridge, Connecticut. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** New England Brewing Co. is situated at 175 Amity Rd, Woodbridge, CT 06525, in the southwestern part of Connecticut.

2. **Founding:** New England Brewing Co. was founded by Rob Leonard and Matt Westfall in 2001. The brewery has become well-known for its commitment to brewing high-quality, innovative beers.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** New England Brewing Co. is dedicated to brewing a wide range of high-quality beers that appeal to a variety of tastes. They focus on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative brewing techniques to create unique and flavorful beers.

4. **Beer Selection:** The brewery offers a diverse lineup of beers, including a variety of IPAs, stouts, porters, lagers, and seasonal specialties. They are known for their commitment to quality and consistency, with each beer crafted with care and attention to detail. New England Brewing Co. frequently releases new and limited-edition beers, ensuring that there’s always something new and exciting to try for beer enthusiasts.

5. **Taproom Experience:** The taproom at New England Brewing Co. provides a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere for guests to enjoy a selection of craft beers. With a rustic and industrial design, it’s the perfect place to relax with friends or meet other beer enthusiasts. Visitors can sample beers directly from the source, enjoy live music or events, and learn more about the brewing process from the knowledgeable staff.

6. **Distribution:** In addition to serving beer on-site at their taproom, New England Brewing Co. distributes its products to various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Connecticut and select locations outside the state. They also participate in beer festivals and events, allowing beer enthusiasts to sample their beers outside of the brewery.

Overall, New England Brewing Co. offers a dynamic and enjoyable brewing experience in Woodbridge, with a focus on quality, innovation, and community. Whether you’re a local resident or just passing through, it’s definitely worth a visit for beer enthusiasts looking to explore new flavors and styles.

#6 OEC Brewing (Ordinem Ecentrici Coctores) – 4.06 average Untapped rating

OEC Brewing, short for Ordinem Ecentrici Coctores (Order of Eccentric Brewers), is a distinguished craft brewery located in Oxford, Connecticut. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** OEC Brewing is situated at 7 Fox Hollow Rd, Oxford, CT 06478, in the western part of Connecticut.

2. **Founding:** OEC Brewing was founded by Ben Neidhart in 2014. The brewery is renowned for its dedication to traditional brewing methods and experimental approaches.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** OEC Brewing is committed to brewing unique and innovative beers that blend traditional European brewing techniques with modern experimentation. They specialize in crafting sour and wild ales, as well as barrel-aged and mixed fermentation beers, using a diverse array of ingredients and processes.

4. **Beer Selection:** The brewery offers an eclectic lineup of beers, including a variety of sour ales, farmhouse ales, lagers, and specialty brews. They are known for their complex and nuanced flavors, with each beer showcasing the distinctive characteristics of the brewing process and ingredients. OEC Brewing frequently releases new and limited-edition beers, often incorporating unusual ingredients and techniques to push the boundaries of brewing.

5. **Taproom Experience:** The taproom at OEC Brewing provides a unique and immersive atmosphere for guests to enjoy a selection of craft beers. With a rustic and industrial design, it’s the perfect place to explore the diverse world of sour and wild ales. Visitors can sample beers directly from the source, enjoy guided tastings and tours, and learn more about the brewing process from the knowledgeable staff.

6. **Distribution:** In addition to serving beer on-site at their taproom, OEC Brewing distributes its products to various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Connecticut and select locations outside the state. They also participate in beer festivals and events, allowing beer enthusiasts to sample their beers outside of the brewery.

Overall, OEC Brewing offers a truly unique and exceptional brewing experience in Oxford, with a focus on quality, innovation, and tradition. Whether you’re a local resident or a beer enthusiast visiting the area, it’s definitely worth a visit to explore their distinctive and flavorful beers.

#5 Counter Weight Brewing Co – 4.06 average Untapped rating

Counter Weight Brewing Co. is a renowned craft brewery located in Hamden, Connecticut. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** Counter Weight Brewing Co. is situated at 23 Raccio Park Rd, Hamden, CT 06514, in the southern part of Connecticut.

2. **Founding:** Counter Weight Brewing Co. was founded by Matt Westfall and Jeff Browning in 2016. The brewery has quickly gained recognition for its dedication to quality and innovation in brewing.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** Counter Weight Brewing Co. is committed to brewing high-quality, handcrafted beers that showcase a variety of styles and flavors. They focus on using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible and are known for their creativity and experimentation in brewing.

4. **Beer Selection:** The brewery offers a diverse lineup of beers, including a variety of IPAs, stouts, porters, lagers, and seasonal specialties. They are known for their commitment to quality and consistency, with each beer crafted with care and attention to detail. Counter Weight Brewing Co. frequently releases new and limited-edition beers, ensuring that there’s always something new and exciting to try for beer enthusiasts.

5. **Taproom Experience:** The taproom at Counter Weight Brewing Co. provides a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy a selection of craft beers. With a modern and industrial design, it’s the perfect place to relax with friends or meet other beer enthusiasts. Visitors can sample beers directly from the source, enjoy food trucks and events, and learn more about the brewing process from the knowledgeable staff.

6. **Distribution:** In addition to serving beer on-site at their taproom, Counter Weight Brewing Co. distributes its products to various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Connecticut. They also participate in beer festivals and events, allowing beer enthusiasts to sample their beers outside of the brewery.

Overall, Counter Weight Brewing Co. offers a dynamic and enjoyable brewing experience in Hamden, with a focus on quality, innovation, and community. Whether you’re a local resident or just passing through, it’s definitely worth a visit for beer enthusiasts looking to explore new flavors and styles.

#4 Abomination Brewing Company – 4.08 average Untapped rating

Abomination Brewing Company is a prominent craft brewery located in East Haven, Connecticut. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** Abomination Brewing Company is situated at 1 Corporate Dr, Suite D, East Haven, CT 06512, in the southern part of Connecticut.

2. **Founding:** Abomination Brewing Company was founded by Mike Fava and Tony Fava in 2016. The brewery has quickly gained recognition for its bold and innovative beers.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** Abomination Brewing Company is dedicated to brewing high-quality, boundary-pushing beers that challenge traditional brewing norms. They are known for experimenting with unique ingredients, creative flavor combinations, and innovative brewing techniques to create beers that are both memorable and flavorful.

4. **Beer Selection:** The brewery offers a diverse lineup of beers, including a variety of IPAs, stouts, porters, sours, and experimental brews. They are known for their commitment to quality and consistency, with each beer crafted with care and attention to detail. Abomination Brewing Company frequently releases new and limited-edition beers, ensuring that there’s always something new and exciting to try for beer enthusiasts.

5. **Taproom Experience:** The taproom at Abomination Brewing Company provides a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere for guests to enjoy a selection of craft beers. With a modern and industrial design, it’s the perfect place to relax with friends or meet other beer enthusiasts. Visitors can sample beers directly from the source, enjoy food trucks and events, and learn more about the brewing process from the knowledgeable staff.

6. **Distribution:** In addition to serving beer on-site at their taproom, Abomination Brewing Company distributes its products to various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Connecticut. They also participate in beer festivals and events, allowing beer enthusiasts to sample their beers outside of the brewery.

Overall, Abomination Brewing Company offers a dynamic and enjoyable brewing experience in East Haven, with a focus on quality, creativity, and community. Whether you’re a local resident or just passing through, it’s definitely worth a visit for beer enthusiasts looking to explore new flavors and styles.

#3 Short Throw Brewing Co – 4.16 average Untapped rating

Short Throw Brewing Co. is a notable craft brewery located in Stratford, Connecticut. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** Short Throw Brewing Co. is situated at 99 Research Dr, Unit 6, Stratford, CT 06615, in the southwestern part of Connecticut.

2. **Founding:** Short Throw Brewing Co. was founded by Rob and Scott Ceballos in 2017. The brewery has quickly gained recognition for its innovative and high-quality beers.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** Short Throw Brewing Co. is dedicated to brewing exceptional beers that push the boundaries of traditional brewing styles. They focus on using high-quality ingredients and precise brewing techniques to create unique and flavorful beers that appeal to a wide range of palates.

4. **Beer Selection:** The brewery offers a diverse lineup of beers, including a variety of IPAs, stouts, porters, sours, and seasonal specialties. They are known for their commitment to quality and consistency, with each beer crafted with care and attention to detail. Short Throw Brewing Co. frequently releases new and limited-edition beers, ensuring that there’s always something new and exciting to try for beer enthusiasts.

5. **Taproom Experience:** The taproom at Short Throw Brewing Co. provides a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere for guests to enjoy a selection of craft beers. With a modern and industrial design, it’s the perfect place to relax with friends or meet other beer enthusiasts. Visitors can sample beers directly from the source, enjoy food trucks and events, and learn more about the brewing process from the knowledgeable staff.

6. **Distribution:** In addition to serving beer on-site at their taproom, Short Throw Brewing Co. distributes its products to various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Connecticut. They also participate in beer festivals and events, allowing beer enthusiasts to sample their beers outside of the brewery.

Overall, Short Throw Brewing Co. offers a dynamic and enjoyable brewing experience in Stratford, with a focus on quality, innovation, and community. Whether you’re a local resident or just passing through, it’s definitely worth a visit for beer enthusiasts looking to explore new flavors and styles.

#2 Fox Farm Brewery 4.18 average Untapped rating

Fox Farm Brewery is a notable craft brewery located in Salem, Connecticut. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** Fox Farm Brewery is situated at 62 Music Vale Rd, Salem, CT 06420, in the rural town of Salem in southeastern Connecticut.

2. **Founding:** Fox Farm Brewery was founded by Zack Adams and Laura Adams in 2017. The brewery has quickly gained recognition for its dedication to traditional brewing methods and farmhouse-style beers.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** Fox Farm Brewery is committed to brewing high-quality, small-batch beers using traditional brewing techniques and locally sourced ingredients. They focus on creating balanced and nuanced beers that reflect the character of the region and the agricultural heritage of New England.

4. **Beer Selection:** The brewery offers a diverse lineup of beers, including a variety of farmhouse ales, saisons, IPAs, and lagers. They are known for their commitment to quality and craftsmanship, with each beer meticulously crafted to showcase the flavors and aromas of the ingredients. Fox Farm Brewery frequently releases new and seasonal beers, ensuring that there’s always something new and exciting to try for beer enthusiasts.

5. **Taproom Experience:** The taproom at Fox Farm Brewery provides a rustic and inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy a selection of craft beers. With a cozy and comfortable design, it’s the perfect place to relax with friends or family. Visitors can sample beers directly from the source, enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding countryside, and learn more about the brewing process from the knowledgeable staff.

6. **Distribution:** In addition to serving beer on-site at their taproom, Fox Farm Brewery distributes its products to various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Connecticut. They also participate in beer festivals and events, allowing beer enthusiasts to sample their beers outside of the brewery.

Overall, Fox Farm Brewery offers a unique and authentic brewing experience in Salem, with a focus on quality, tradition, and community. Whether you’re a local resident or just passing through, it’s definitely worth a visit for beer enthusiasts looking to explore the rich brewing heritage of New England.

#1 New Park Brewing – 4.19 average Untapped rating

New Park Brewing is a well-known craft brewery located in West Hartford, Connecticut. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** New Park Brewing is situated at 485 New Park Ave, West Hartford, CT 06110, in the Parkville neighborhood of West Hartford.

2. **Founding:** New Park Brewing was founded by John Doyle and Alex Dee in 2017. The brewery has quickly gained recognition for its innovative and high-quality beers.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** New Park Brewing is dedicated to brewing exceptional beers that showcase a wide range of styles and flavors. They focus on using high-quality ingredients and precise brewing techniques to create beers that are both flavorful and approachable.

4. **Beer Selection:** The brewery offers a diverse lineup of beers, including a variety of IPAs, stouts, porters, sours, and seasonal specialties. They are known for their commitment to quality and consistency, with each beer crafted with care and attention to detail. New Park Brewing frequently releases new and limited-edition beers, ensuring that there’s always something new and exciting to try for beer enthusiasts.

5. **Taproom Experience:** The taproom at New Park Brewing provides a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere for guests to enjoy a selection of craft beers. With a modern and industrial design, it’s the perfect place to relax with friends or meet other beer enthusiasts. Visitors can sample beers directly from the source, enjoy live music or events, and participate in brewery tours to learn more about the brewing process.

6. **Distribution:** In addition to serving beer on-site at their taproom, New Park Brewing distributes its products to various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Connecticut. They also participate in beer festivals and events, allowing beer enthusiasts to sample their beers outside of the brewery.

Overall, New Park Brewing offers a dynamic and enjoyable brewing experience in West Hartford, with a focus on quality, innovation, and community. Whether you’re a local resident or just passing through, it’s definitely worth a visit for beer enthusiasts looking to explore new flavors and styles.