Beer Explorer

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

#10 Burlington Beer Company – 4.00 average Untapped rating

Burlington Beer Company is a craft brewery located in Williston, Vermont. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** Burlington Beer Company is situated at 25 Omega Dr #150, Williston, VT 05495.

2. **Founding:** Burlington Beer Company was founded by Joe Lemnah and Asa Foster in 2014. Since its inception, it has gained recognition for its innovative and creative approach to brewing.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** Burlington Beer Company focuses on brewing a variety of craft beers with a particular emphasis on experimentation and creativity. They are committed to pushing the boundaries of traditional brewing styles and techniques to create beers that are unique, flavorful, and memorable.

4. **Beer Selection:** Burlington Beer Company offers a diverse selection of beers, including a variety of IPAs, pale ales, stouts, porters, and sour ales. They are known for their imaginative and highly experimental brews, often incorporating unusual ingredients and brewing techniques to create innovative flavor profiles.

5. **Taproom Experience:** Burlington Beer Company’s taproom provides a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere for visitors to enjoy their beers. With a modern and industrial design, the taproom offers ample seating and a relaxed vibe, making it the perfect spot to gather with friends or family and sample a variety of craft beers.

6. **Distribution:** In addition to serving beer at their taproom, Burlington Beer Company distributes its products to various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Vermont and neighboring states. They also participate in beer festivals and events, allowing beer enthusiasts to sample their brews outside of the brewery.

Overall, Burlington Beer Company offers an exciting and innovative brewing experience in Williston, Vermont, with a focus on experimentation, creativity, and quality. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the area, it’s definitely worth a visit to sample their acclaimed craft beers and experience the brewery’s unique atmosphere.

#9 Foley Brothers Brewing – 4.02 average Untapped rating

Foley Brothers Brewing is a craft brewery located in Brandon, Vermont. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** Foley Brothers Brewing is situated at 79 Stone Mill Dam Rd, Brandon, VT 05733.

2. **Founding:** Foley Brothers Brewing was founded by Patrick and Daniel Foley in 2012. Since its inception, it has gained recognition for its innovative and high-quality craft beers.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** Foley Brothers Brewing focuses on brewing a variety of craft beers with a particular emphasis on hop-forward styles, including IPAs and pale ales. They are committed to using high-quality ingredients and traditional brewing techniques to create beers that are both flavorful and balanced.

4. **Beer Selection:** Foley Brothers Brewing offers a diverse selection of beers, including a variety of IPAs, pale ales, stouts, porters, and seasonal releases. They are known for their well-crafted and highly drinkable brews, with each beer carefully brewed to showcase the unique flavors and aromas of the ingredients.

5. **Taproom Experience:** Foley Brothers Brewing’s taproom provides a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for visitors to enjoy their beers. With a rustic and cozy design, the taproom offers ample seating and a laid-back vibe, making it the perfect spot to unwind with friends or family and sample a variety of craft beers.

6. **Distribution:** In addition to serving beer at their taproom, Foley Brothers Brewing distributes its products to various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Vermont and neighboring states. They also participate in beer festivals and events, allowing beer enthusiasts to sample their brews outside of the brewery.

Overall, Foley Brothers Brewing offers an enjoyable brewing experience in Brandon, Vermont, with a focus on quality, innovation, and community. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the area, it’s definitely worth a visit to sample their acclaimed craft beers and experience the brewery’s friendly atmosphere.

#8 Fiddlehead Brewing Company – 4.03 average Untapped rating

Fiddlehead Brewing Company is a craft brewery located in Shelburne, Vermont. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** Fiddlehead Brewing Company is situated at 6305 Shelburne Rd, Shelburne, VT 05482.

2. **Founding:** Fiddlehead Brewing Company was founded by Matt Cohen in 2011. Since its inception, it has become one of Vermont’s most beloved breweries, known for its dedication to quality, innovation, and community.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** Fiddlehead Brewing Company focuses on brewing a variety of craft beers with a particular emphasis on hop-forward styles, including IPAs and pale ales. They are committed to using high-quality ingredients and innovative brewing techniques to create beers that are both flavorful and approachable.

4. **Beer Selection:** Fiddlehead Brewing Company offers a diverse selection of beers on tap, including a variety of IPAs, pale ales, stouts, porters, and seasonal releases. They are known for their well-crafted and highly drinkable brews, with each beer carefully crafted to showcase the unique flavors and aromas of the ingredients.

5. **Taproom Experience:** Fiddlehead Brewing Company’s taproom provides a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere for visitors to enjoy their beers. With a modern and inviting design, the taproom offers ample seating and a laid-back vibe, making it the perfect spot to gather with friends or family and sample a variety of craft beers.

6. **Distribution:** In addition to serving beer at their taproom, Fiddlehead Brewing Company distributes its products to various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Vermont and neighboring states. They also participate in beer festivals and events, allowing beer enthusiasts to sample their brews outside of the brewery.

Overall, Fiddlehead Brewing Company offers an exceptional brewing experience in Shelburne, Vermont, with a focus on quality, innovation, and community. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the area, it’s definitely worth a visit to sample their acclaimed craft beers and experience the brewery’s friendly atmosphere.

#7 Frost Beer Works – 4.06 average Untapped rating

Frost Beer Works is a craft brewery located in Hinesburg, Vermont. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** Frost Beer Works is situated at 171 Commerce St, Hinesburg, VT 05461.

2. **Founding:** Frost Beer Works was founded by Garin Frost in 2013. Since its inception, it has gained a strong reputation for its high-quality craft beers and dedication to brewing excellence.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** Frost Beer Works focuses on brewing a variety of craft beers with a particular emphasis on hop-forward styles, including IPAs and pale ales. They are committed to using locally sourced ingredients and innovative brewing techniques to create beers that are both flavorful and approachable.

4. **Beer Selection:** Frost Beer Works offers a rotating selection of beers on tap, including a variety of IPAs, pale ales, stouts, porters, and seasonal releases. They are known for their well-crafted and highly drinkable brews, with each beer carefully brewed to showcase the unique flavors and aromas of the ingredients.

5. **Taproom Experience:** Frost Beer Works’ taproom provides a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere for visitors to enjoy their beers. With a rustic and cozy design, the taproom offers ample seating and a laid-back vibe, making it the perfect spot to unwind with friends or family and sample a variety of craft beers.

6. **Distribution:** In addition to serving beer at their taproom, Frost Beer Works distributes its products to various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Vermont and neighboring states. They also participate in beer festivals and events, allowing beer enthusiasts to sample their brews outside of the brewery.

Overall, Frost Beer Works offers an enjoyable brewing experience in Hinesburg, Vermont, with a focus on quality, innovation, and community. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the area, it’s definitely worth a visit to sample their acclaimed craft beers and experience the brewery’s friendly atmosphere.

#6 Lawson’s Finest Liquids – 4.11 average Untapped rating

Lawson’s Finest Liquids is a highly regarded craft brewery located in Waitsfield, Vermont. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** Lawson’s Finest Liquids is situated at 155 Carroll Rd, Waitsfield, VT 05673.

2. **Founding:** Lawson’s Finest Liquids was founded by Sean and Karen Lawson in 2008. Since its inception, it has gained widespread recognition for its exceptional craft beers and dedication to quality and innovation.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** Lawson’s Finest Liquids focuses on brewing a variety of craft beers with a particular emphasis on hop-forward styles, including IPAs and pale ales. They are committed to using high-quality ingredients, innovative brewing techniques, and sustainable practices to create beers that are both flavorful and distinctive.

4. **Beer Selection:** Lawson’s Finest Liquids offers a diverse selection of beers, including a variety of IPAs, pale ales, stouts, porters, and seasonal releases. They are known for their well-crafted and highly drinkable brews, with each beer carefully brewed to showcase the unique flavors and aromas of the ingredients.

5. **Taproom Experience:** Lawson’s Finest Liquids’ taproom provides a warm and inviting atmosphere for visitors to enjoy their beers. With a rustic and cozy design, the taproom offers ample seating and a relaxed vibe, making it the perfect spot to gather with friends or family and sample a variety of craft beers.

6. **Distribution:** In addition to serving beer at their taproom, Lawson’s Finest Liquids distributes its products to various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Vermont and neighboring states. They also participate in beer festivals and events, allowing beer enthusiasts to sample their brews outside of the brewery.

Overall, Lawson’s Finest Liquids offers an exceptional brewing experience in Waitsfield, Vermont, with a focus on quality, innovation, and community. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the area, it’s definitely worth a visit to sample their acclaimed craft beers and experience the brewery’s legendary hospitality.

#5 Grassroots Brewing – 4.13 average Untapped rating

Grassroots Brewing is a collaborative brewing project based in Vermont, founded by Shaun Hill of Hill Farmstead Brewery and Chad Yakobson of Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** Grassroots Brewing does not have a physical location of its own. Instead, it operates as a collaborative project with various breweries, primarily in Vermont.

2. **Founding:** Grassroots Brewing was founded in 2013 by Shaun Hill and Chad Yakobson. The project was born out of a shared passion for brewing innovative and high-quality beers that push the boundaries of traditional brewing styles.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** Grassroots Brewing focuses on brewing artisanal and experimental beers with a focus on farmhouse ales, saisons, and wild ales. They are committed to using locally sourced ingredients, traditional brewing methods, and wild fermentation techniques to create beers that are complex, flavorful, and unique.

4. **Beer Selection:** Grassroots Brewing offers a diverse range of beers, including a variety of farmhouse ales, saisons, sour ales, and barrel-aged beers. They are known for their small-batch releases and limited-edition collaborations with other breweries, often experimenting with unique ingredients and brewing techniques to create innovative and exciting new beers.

5. **Distribution:** Grassroots Brewing primarily releases its beers through limited-edition bottle releases at select retailers and through special events and collaborations with other breweries. Their beers are highly sought after by beer enthusiasts and collectors due to their limited availability and reputation for quality and innovation.

Overall, Grassroots Brewing offers a dynamic and experimental approach to brewing in Vermont, with a focus on collaboration, innovation, and pushing the boundaries of traditional brewing styles. While they do not have a physical location, their beers can be found at select retailers and events throughout Vermont and beyond, making them a sought-after destination for beer enthusiasts seeking unique and exceptional craft beers.

#4 Foam Brewers – 4.15 average Untapped rating

Foam Brewers is a craft brewery located in Burlington, Vermont. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** Foam Brewers is situated at 112 Lake St, Burlington, VT 05401.

2. **Founding:** Foam Brewers was founded by Todd Haire, Robert Grim, and Sam Keane in 2016. Since its inception, it has quickly gained a reputation for its innovative and creative approach to brewing, as well as its dedication to quality and sustainability.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** Foam Brewers focuses on brewing a wide range of craft beers with a focus on creativity, experimentation, and quality. They are committed to using high-quality ingredients and innovative brewing techniques to create beers that push the boundaries of traditional styles and flavors.

4. **Beer Selection:** Foam Brewers offers a rotating selection of beers on tap, including a variety of IPAs, pale ales, saisons, stouts, and sour beers. They are known for their well-crafted and highly experimental brews, with each beer showcasing unique flavors and aromas inspired by the brewery’s surroundings and local ingredients.

5. **Taproom Experience:** Foam Brewers’ taproom provides a modern and inviting atmosphere for visitors to enjoy their beers. With a sleek and minimalist design, the taproom offers ample seating and a relaxed vibe, making it the perfect spot to gather with friends or family and sample a variety of craft beers.

6. **Distribution:** In addition to serving beer at their taproom, Foam Brewers distributes its products to various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Vermont. They also participate in beer festivals and events, allowing beer enthusiasts to sample their brews outside of the brewery.

Overall, Foam Brewers offers a dynamic and innovative brewing experience in Burlington, Vermont, with a focus on creativity, quality, and sustainability. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the area, it’s definitely worth a visit to sample their acclaimed craft beers and experience the brewery’s unique atmosphere.

#3 River Roost Brewery – 4.19 average Untapped rating

River Roost Brewery is a craft brewery located in White River Junction, Vermont. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** River Roost Brewery is situated at 230 S Main St, White River Junction, VT 05001.

2. **Founding:** River Roost Brewery was founded by Mark Babson in 2016. Since its inception, it has garnered a strong reputation for its high-quality craft beers and friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** River Roost Brewery focuses on brewing a diverse range of craft beers with a particular emphasis on hop-forward styles, including IPAs and pale ales. They are committed to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative brewing techniques to create beers that are both flavorful and approachable.

4. **Beer Selection:** River Roost Brewery offers a rotating selection of beers on tap, including a variety of IPAs, pale ales, stouts, and seasonal releases. They are known for their well-crafted and highly drinkable brews, with each beer carefully crafted to showcase the unique flavors and aromas of the ingredients.

5. **Taproom Experience:** River Roost Brewery’s taproom provides a laid-back and inviting atmosphere for visitors to enjoy their beers. With a rustic and cozy design, the taproom offers ample seating and a relaxed vibe, making it the perfect spot to unwind with friends or family while sampling a variety of craft beers.

6. **Distribution:** In addition to serving beer at their taproom, River Roost Brewery distributes its products to various bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Vermont. They also participate in beer festivals and events, allowing beer enthusiasts to sample their brews outside of the brewery.

Overall, River Roost Brewery offers a dynamic and enjoyable brewing experience in White River Junction, Vermont, with a focus on quality, innovation, and community. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the area, it’s definitely worth a visit to sample their acclaimed craft beers and experience the brewery’s welcoming atmosphere.

#2 Hill Farmstead Brewery – 4.32 average Untapped rating

Hill Farmstead Brewery is a highly acclaimed craft brewery located in Greensboro Bend, Vermont. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** Hill Farmstead Brewery is situated at 403 Hill Rd, Greensboro Bend, VT 05842.

2. **Founding:** Hill Farmstead Brewery was founded by Shaun Hill in 2010. Since its inception, it has gained widespread recognition as one of the top breweries in the world, known for its exceptional quality and dedication to traditional brewing techniques.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** Hill Farmstead Brewery focuses on brewing a wide range of craft beers inspired by traditional European brewing styles. They are committed to using locally sourced ingredients and sustainable brewing practices to create beers that reflect the unique terroir of the Vermont countryside.

4. **Beer Selection:** Hill Farmstead Brewery is best known for its lineup of meticulously crafted farmhouse ales, including saisons, IPAs, stouts, and barrel-aged beers. They are known for their complex flavors, balanced profiles, and exceptional drinkability. Hill Farmstead Brewery regularly releases new and limited-edition beers, often drawing long lines of beer enthusiasts eager to sample their latest creations.

5. **Taproom Experience:** Hill Farmstead Brewery’s taproom provides a rustic and intimate setting for visitors to enjoy their beers. With a focus on simplicity and authenticity, the taproom offers a cozy atmosphere where guests can relax and savor the brewery’s acclaimed brews. The taproom may also offer brewery tours, merchandise, and the opportunity to purchase bottles and growlers of their beers to go.

6. **Distribution:** Hill Farmstead Brewery primarily sells its beers directly to customers at their brewery location. They do not distribute their beers widely, preferring to maintain control over the quality and availability of their products. However, they occasionally participate in special events and collaborations with other breweries, allowing fans to sample their beers outside of the brewery.

Overall, Hill Farmstead Brewery offers an unparalleled brewing experience in Greensboro Bend, Vermont, with a focus on quality, tradition, and innovation. Whether you’re a local resident or a beer enthusiast visiting Vermont, it’s definitely worth a visit to sample their world-renowned farmhouse ales and experience the brewery’s legendary hospitality.

#1 The Alchemist – 4.33 average Untapped rating

The Alchemist is a renowned craft brewery located in Stowe, Vermont. Here’s an overview:

1. **Location:** The Alchemist operates two locations:

– The Alchemist Brewery & Visitor Center: 100 Cottage Club Rd, Stowe, VT 05672

– The Alchemist Visitor Center: 100 Waterbury Rd, Waterbury, VT 05676

2. **Founding:** The Alchemist was founded by John and Jen Kimmich in 2003. Since its inception, it has become one of Vermont’s most celebrated breweries, known for its world-class IPAs and dedication to quality and innovation.

3. **Brewing Philosophy:** The Alchemist is dedicated to brewing hop-forward beers with bold flavors and aromas. They are committed to using the freshest ingredients and innovative brewing techniques to create beers that push the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of craft beer.

4. **Beer Selection:** The Alchemist is best known for its flagship beer, Heady Topper, an iconic double IPA that is widely regarded as one of the best beers in the world. In addition to Heady Topper, they also produce a variety of other hoppy ales, including Focal Banger IPA and Crusher IPA. They occasionally release limited-edition and seasonal beers, often experimenting with new hop varieties and brewing styles.

5. **Taproom Experience:** The Alchemist’s taproom provides a relaxed and inviting atmosphere for visitors to sample their beers. Both locations offer a rustic and cozy setting, with ample seating and friendly staff to guide guests through the beer tasting experience. The taprooms may also offer brewery tours, merchandise, and the opportunity to purchase cans of their acclaimed beers to go.

6. **Distribution:** The Alchemist primarily sells its beers directly to customers at their brewery locations. They do not distribute their beers widely, preferring to maintain control over the quality and freshness of their products. However, they occasionally participate in special events and beer releases where fans can purchase their beers outside of the brewery.

Overall, The Alchemist offers an exceptional brewing experience in Stowe and Waterbury, Vermont, with a focus on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Whether you’re a local resident or a beer enthusiast visiting Vermont, it’s definitely worth a visit to sample their world-renowned IPAs and experience the brewery’s legendary hospitality.