Discover the best Huntsville breweries and taprooms, from the rich of brewing to the wide variety of beer available. Explore the top and taprooms, and take a brewery tour to learn about the process and taste the delicious results.
Overview of Huntsville Breweries
If you’re a beer enthusiast, then Huntsville, Alabama, is undoubtedly a city you should visit. Huntsville has an extensive of brewing, and it’s home to some of the best breweries in the state. In this section, we will provide you with an overview of Huntsville breweries, including their , the types of they brew, and some popular breweries you should check out.
History of Brewing in Huntsville
The of brewing in Huntsville dates back to the early 1800s when the city’s first brewery was established. The brewery was run by a group of German immigrants who brought with them their brewing traditions. However, the brewery didn’t last long due to the Civil War and prohibition.
It wasn’t until the 1990s when the craft beer industry started to take off in Huntsville. The city’s first craft brewery, Olde Towne Brewery, opened in 1993. Since then, Huntsville has seen a surge in the number of breweries, and the city is now home to numerous craft breweries, , and taprooms.
Types of Beer Brewed in Huntsville
Huntsville’s brewing scene is diverse, and you’ll find a wide range of beer styles. From traditional German lagers to experimental IPAs, Huntsville breweries have something for everyone. Here are some of the most popular styles brewed in Huntsville:
- IPA – Huntsville breweries are known for their hoppy IPAs. The city’s brewers experiment with different hop varieties and brewing techniques to create unique and flavorful IPAs.
- Stout – If you’re a fan of dark beers, then Huntsville breweries won’t disappoint. You’ll find a variety of stouts, including imperial stouts, milk stouts, and oatmeal stouts.
- Lager – Huntsville has a rich German heritage, and it’s no surprise that the city’s breweries brew some excellent lagers. From pilsners to bocks, Huntsville’s breweries produce some of the best lagers in the state.
- Sour – Sour beers are gaining popularity, and Huntsville breweries are keeping up with the trend. You’ll find a variety of sour beers, including gose, Berliner Weisse, and sour IPAs.
Popular Huntsville Breweries
Huntsville’s breweries are known for their quality , unique taprooms, and welcoming atmosphere. Here are some popular breweries you should check out:
- Straight to Ale – Straight to Ale is one of Huntsville’s oldest breweries. They have a wide range of beers, including their popular Monkeynaut IPA. Their taproom is located in a historic building and has a unique atmosphere.
- Yellowhammer Brewing – Yellowhammer Brewing is known for their German-style lagers and ales. Their taproom has a spacious outdoor area and is a popular spot for live music.
- Campus 805 – Campus 805 is a unique brewery located in an old high school. The brewery has several different taprooms, including a rooftop bar and a garden. They have a wide range of beers, including sours, IPAs, and stouts.
Brewpubs in Huntsville
If you’re a fan of beer and food, then a brewpub is the perfect place for you to visit. In Huntsville, there are several that offer delicious food and a wide variety of beers to choose from. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at what a brewpub is, the best in Huntsville, and the food and pairings you can try.
Definition of a Brewpub
A brewpub is a restaurant that brews its own on-site. This means that you can enjoy a freshly brewed while also enjoying a meal. Brewpubs typically have a cozy and friendly atmosphere, making them a perfect spot to hang out with friends or family. Many also offer tours of their brewing facilities, giving you an opportunity to learn more about the beer-making process.
Best Brewpubs in Huntsville
Here are some of the best in Huntsville that you should definitely check out:
- Straight to Ale – This brewpub is located in the heart of Huntsville and has a wide range of beers to choose from. They also have a large outdoor patio, making it a great spot to hang out during the warmer months.
- Rocket Republic Brewing Company – This brewpub is known for its innovative beers and delicious food. They also have a spacious taproom that’s perfect for events or gatherings.
- Yellowhammer Brewing – This brewpub is located in a historic building and has a cozy atmosphere. They have a rotating selection of beers, so there’s always something new to try.
- Below the Radar – This brewpub is located in downtown Huntsville and has a great selection of beers and food. They also have a rooftop patio that offers stunning views of the city.
Food and Beer Pairings at Huntsville Brewpubs
One of the great things about visiting a brewpub is that you can try different food and beer pairings. Here are some suggestions to get you started:
- IPA and spicy food – IPAs are known for their hoppy and bitter flavors, which pair well with spicy food.
- Stout and chocolate dessert – Stouts have a rich and creamy texture, making them a perfect match for chocolate desserts.
- Wheat beer and seafood – Wheat beers are light and refreshing, making them a great match for seafood dishes.
- Amber ale and burgers – Amber ales have a caramel and malty flavor, which pairs well with burgers and other grilled foods.
Taprooms in Huntsville
When it comes to Huntsville’s brewing scene, taprooms are a must-visit for any beer lover. These establishments are unique, offering visitors an experience that is different from traditional bars and breweries. In this section, we’ll define what taprooms are, explore the best taprooms in Huntsville, and discuss the atmosphere and events that make them special.
Definition of a Taproom
A taproom is a type of establishment that is owned by a brewery and specializes in serving their beer. Unlike traditional bars, taprooms typically do not serve food, though some may offer a limited menu or partner with food trucks. The focus of a taproom is on the beer, with the goal of creating a space where visitors can enjoy the brewery’s products in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
Best Taprooms in Huntsville
Huntsville is home to several fantastic taprooms, each with their own unique atmosphere and selection of beers on tap. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Straight to Ale: Located in the heart of Campus 805, Straight to Ale’s taproom is a must-visit. The space is large and open, with plenty of seating both inside and outside on the patio. The brewery’s selection of beers is impressive, and visitors can enjoy live music and events throughout the week.
- Yellowhammer Brewing: Yellowhammer’s taproom is cozy and inviting, with a rustic feel that’s perfect for relaxing with friends. The brewery offers a range of beers, from traditional styles to more experimental brews. Visitors can also enjoy trivia nights and other events throughout the week.
- Mad Malts Brewing: This small, family-owned brewery has a taproom that is both laid-back and welcoming. The space is intimate, with a focus on creating a community feel among visitors. Mad Malts offers a range of beers, including several IPAs that are sure to please hop-heads.
Atmosphere and Events at Huntsville Taprooms
One of the things that makes taprooms so special is the atmosphere they create. These establishments are designed to be comfortable and welcoming, with a focus on creating a space where visitors can relax and enjoy their beer. Many taprooms have outdoor seating areas, perfect for enjoying a pint on a warm summer evening.
In addition to their great atmosphere, taprooms in Huntsville are known for their events. From trivia nights to live music, there’s always something happening at these establishments. Many taprooms also offer brewery tours, giving visitors a chance to learn more about the brewing process and the of the brewery.
Overall, taprooms are a unique and essential part of Huntsville’s brewing scene. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, be sure to check out one of the city’s many fantastic taprooms. You won’t be disappointed!
Huntsville Brewery Tours
Are you a beer enthusiast who wants to learn more about the brewing process and sample some of the best beer in Huntsville? Look no further than the Huntsville brewery tours! There are various types of tours available, each offering a unique experience.
Types of Brewery Tours in Huntsville
- Guided Brewery Tours – These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who will take you through the brewing process step by step. You will learn about the ingredients used, the equipment, and the different stages of brewing. Some popular guided tours in Huntsville are the Straight to Ale Brewery Tour and the Rocket City Brew Tour.
- Self-Guided Brewery Tours – If you prefer to explore at your own pace, self-guided tours are a great option. Many breweries in Huntsville offer self-guided tours where you can walk around the facility and read information boards that explain the brewing process. Some breweries that offer self-guided tours include Yellowhammer Brewing and Salty Nut Brewery.
- Virtual Brewery Tours – In the age of COVID-19, virtual tours have become increasingly popular. Huntsville breweries like Mad Malts Brewing are offering virtual tours that allow you to explore their facility and learn about their brewing process from the comfort of your own home.
Best Brewery Tours in Huntsville
- Straight to Ale Brewery Tour – This tour is a must for any lover visiting Huntsville. The tour takes you through the massive Straight to Ale facility, where you will learn about the brewing process and sample some of the brewery’s most popular beers. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about and love sharing their knowledge with visitors.
- Rocket City Brew Tour – This tour takes you to some of the best breweries in Huntsville, including Straight to Ale, Yellowhammer Brewing, and InnerSpace Brewing. You will get to sample different beers at each stop and learn about the unique brewing processes used by each brewery. The tour is a fun and informative way to explore Huntsville’s thriving scene.
- Mad Malts Brewing Virtual Tour – If you can’t make it to Huntsville in person, the Mad Malts Brewing virtual tour is a great option. The tour is led by the brewery’s owner, who will take you through the facility and explain the brewing process. You will get to see the equipment up close and learn about the different types of beer that Mad Malts Brewing produces.
Tasting and Education at Huntsville Brewery Tours
Brewery tours in Huntsville are not just about learning about the brewing process – they also offer opportunities for tasting and education. Many tours include samples of the brewery’s most popular beers, allowing you to experience the unique flavors and aromas of each brew. Additionally, knowledgeable guides are on hand to answer any questions you may have about the brewing process or the itself.
In addition to tastings, many tours also offer educational components. For example, the Straight to Ale Brewery Tour includes a lesson on the different types of hops used in beer production and how they affect the flavor and aroma of the beer. The Rocket City Brew Tour includes a lesson on the of beer and how it has evolved over time.
Overall, Huntsville brewery tours offer a fun and informative way to learn about the brewing process and sample some of the best in the city. Whether you prefer guided or self-guided tours, in-person or virtual tours, there is a tour out there for every lover. So grab a pint and get ready to explore Huntsville’s thriving beer scene!
*Note: The information provided is accurate at the time of writing but may be subject to change. Please check with individual breweries for the most up-to-date information on their tours.
Huntsville Brewery Events
Huntsville has a bustling beer scene, and one of the best ways to experience it is through the many brewery events that take place throughout the year. From beer festivals to special events and community involvement, there’s always something new and exciting happening in Huntsville’s craft beer scene.
Beer Festivals in Huntsville
One of the most popular brewery events in Huntsville is the annual Rocket City Brewfest. This event brings together over 200 beers from more than 70 breweries across the country, making it one of the largest beer festivals in the region. Attendees can sample a wide variety of beers and enjoy live music and food from local vendors.
Another popular beer festival in Huntsville is the Hops & Hounds event, which combines craft with a dog-friendly atmosphere. Attendees can bring their furry friends and enjoy a day of beer sampling, dog-friendly activities, and food trucks.
Special Events at Huntsville Breweries
Breweries in Huntsville also host special events throughout the year, such as release parties, tap takeovers, and dinners. These events are a great way to try new beers and learn more about the brewing process.
For example, Straight to Ale hosts a weekly event called “Firkin Friday,” where they tap a new cask-conditioned ale each week. Attendees can try a unique that’s not available anywhere else and learn about the traditional method of cask conditioning.
Community Involvement at Huntsville Breweries
Many breweries in Huntsville are also involved in their local communities. For example, Yellowhammer Brewing hosts a monthly “Pints with a Purpose” event, where a portion of the proceeds from sales goes towards a local charity. Other breweries host fundraising events or partner with local organizations to support community initiatives.
In addition to supporting local charities, breweries in Huntsville also prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility. Green Bus Brewing, for example, uses solar panels to power their brewery and taproom, and Straight to Ale has implemented a recycling program to reduce their environmental impact.
In conclusion, Huntsville’s brewery events are a great way to experience the city’s thriving craft beer scene and learn more about the local breweries and their commitment to the community and the environment. From festivals to special events and community involvement, there’s always something new and exciting happening in Huntsville’s craft beer scene.
