Cheers to Santa Fe's Finest: Exploring the Best Breweries in the City

Discover the top-rated breweries in Santa Fe. From unique flavors to cozy atmospheres, experience the best craft beer scene in New Mexico.

When it comes to craft beer, Santa Fe is a city that boasts some of the best breweries in the country. With a rich history and culture, it's no surprise that the city has become a hub for craft beer enthusiasts. From traditional brews to experimental blends, Santa Fe's breweries have something for everyone.

One of the most popular breweries in Santa Fe is the Second Street Brewery. This award-winning brewery has been serving up delicious beers since 1996. With two locations in the city, visitors can enjoy a variety of brews, ranging from their classic Pivotal IPA to their seasonal Pumpkin Ale. The brewery also offers delicious food options, making it the perfect spot for a night out with friends or family.

If you're looking for a unique experience, head over to the Santa Fe Brewing Company. This brewery is known for its experimental blends and innovative brewing techniques. Their flagship beer, the Happy Camper IPA, has won numerous awards and is a must-try for any beer lover. Visitors can also take a tour of the brewery and learn about the brewing process.

For a taste of Santa Fe's history, check out the Blue Corn Brewery. This brewery is located in the heart of downtown Santa Fe and has been serving up traditional beers for over 20 years. Their beer menu includes everything from a crisp Pilsner to a rich Stout. The brewery also offers a wide selection of food options, including traditional New Mexican dishes.

If you're a fan of sour beers, make sure to visit Rowley Farmhouse Ales. This brewery specializes in sour and wild ales, using unique ingredients to create complex and flavorful blends. Their taproom also offers a cozy atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a cold beer.

Another popular brewery in Santa Fe is the Duel Brewing Company. This brewery is known for its Belgian-style beers, which are brewed in small batches to ensure quality and flavor. Visitors can enjoy a variety of beers, including their flagship beer, the Duchesse de Bourgogne.

For a taste of Santa Fe's art scene, head over to the Santa Fe Spirits Distillery and Brewery. This unique spot combines craft beer with artisanal spirits, creating a one-of-a-kind experience. Visitors can sip on a cold beer while admiring the beautiful artwork displayed throughout the taproom.

If you're looking for a family-friendly brewery, make sure to check out the Blue Heron Brewing Company. This brewery offers a wide selection of beers, as well as delicious food options. The spacious outdoor patio is perfect for families, with plenty of seating and games for kids.

The Bathtub Row Brewing Co-op is another must-visit brewery in Santa Fe. This co-op brewery is owned and operated by local residents, making it a true community spot. Visitors can enjoy a variety of beers, including their popular Belgian Blonde Ale, while supporting the local community.

If you're a fan of experimental blends, make sure to visit the Tumbleroot Brewery and Distillery. This brewery uses unique ingredients to create bold and flavorful beers, as well as artisanal spirits. Visitors can also enjoy live music and events at the brewery's spacious outdoor patio.

Last but not least, make sure to visit the Chili Line Brewing Co. This brewery specializes in traditional New Mexican beers, using local ingredients to create unique blends. Visitors can enjoy a variety of beers, including their popular Green Chile Beer, while soaking in the beautiful views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Introduction

Santa Fe is a city in New Mexico that is known for its rich history and culture. It is also home to some of the best breweries in the country. These breweries offer a unique taste of local flavors and have become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Santa Fe Brewing Company

The Santa Fe Brewing Company is one of the oldest and most popular breweries in Santa Fe. It was founded in 1988 and has since become a staple of the local beer scene. The brewery offers a wide range of beers, including its flagship beer, the Santa Fe Pale Ale. Visitors can take a tour of the brewery and enjoy a tasting of some of their most popular beers.

Bow and Arrow Brewing Co.

Bow and Arrow Brewing Co. is a brewery that takes inspiration from Native American culture and art. The brewery offers a range of beers that are brewed with locally sourced ingredients and inspired by the flavors of the Southwest. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of their unique beers and take a tour of the brewery.

Second Street Brewery

The Second Street Brewery is a local favorite that has been around since 1996. The brewery offers a range of beers, including its popular IPA and Brown Ale. Visitors can enjoy a meal at the brewery's restaurant and sample some of their delicious food along with their beers.

Tumbleroot Brewery and Distillery

Tumbleroot Brewery and Distillery is a unique brewery that also offers a range of spirits. The brewery offers a variety of beers, including its popular Mexican Lager and Hazy IPA. Visitors can also sample some of their spirits, including vodka and gin.

Rowley Farmhouse Ales

Rowley Farmhouse Ales is a small brewery that is known for its unique and flavorful beers. The brewery offers a range of beers, including its popular Saison and IPA. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of their beers and take a tour of the brewery.

Bathtub Row Brewing Co-op

Bathtub Row Brewing Co-op is a unique brewery that is owned and operated by its members. The brewery offers a range of beers that are brewed using locally sourced ingredients. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of their beers and learn more about the cooperative business model.

Blue Corn Brewery

Blue Corn Brewery is a popular brewery that has been around since 1997. The brewery offers a range of beers, including its popular Gold Medal Stout and Road Runner IPA. Visitors can enjoy a meal at the brewery's restaurant and sample some of their delicious food along with their beers.

Chili Line Brewing Co.

Chili Line Brewing Co. is a small brewery that is known for its unique and flavorful beers. The brewery offers a range of beers, including its popular Red and Green Chile Beers. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of their beers and learn more about the brewing process.

La Cumbre Brewing Co.

La Cumbre Brewing Co. is a brewery that was founded in Albuquerque but has since expanded to Santa Fe. The brewery offers a range of beers, including its popular Elevated IPA and A Slice of Hefen. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of their beers and learn more about the brewing process.

Conclusion

Santa Fe is home to some of the best breweries in the country. These breweries offer a unique taste of local flavors and have become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Whether you are a beer enthusiast or just looking to try something new, Santa Fe's breweries have something for everyone.

Santa Fe, New Mexico is a city rich in history and culture, and its brewing scene is no exception. With a long history of brewing dating back to the 1800s, Santa Fe has become a hub for craft beer lovers in recent years. From small, family-owned breweries to larger taprooms with live music and entertainment, there is no shortage of options for those seeking a unique and flavorful experience. In this article, we'll explore the best breweries in Santa Fe, including where to find the best happy hour deals, the top spots for tasting flights, and family-friendly options for all ages.

A History of Brewing in Santa Fe

The history of brewing in Santa Fe dates back to the mid-1800s, when German immigrants first introduced their brewing techniques to the area. The first brewery in Santa Fe was established in 1859 by a man named Franz Huning, who brought his brewing equipment all the way from Germany. However, it wasn't until the early 1900s that brewing really took off in Santa Fe, with several new breweries popping up in the area.Unfortunately, Prohibition put a halt to the brewing industry in Santa Fe and throughout the United States. It wasn't until the 1980s that craft brewing began to gain popularity once again, and Santa Fe was at the forefront of the movement. Today, there are numerous breweries in the area, each with its own unique style and flavor.

The Best Breweries for Craft Beer Lovers

If you're a craft beer lover, there are plenty of options in Santa Fe. One of the most popular breweries in the area is Second Street Brewery, which has two locations in Santa Fe. The original location, located in the historic Santa Fe Railyard, features a spacious indoor seating area as well as a large outdoor patio. Second Street Brewery is known for its flavorful IPAs, stouts, and porters, as well as its rotating selection of seasonal brews.Another top choice for craft beer lovers is Santa Fe Brewing Company. Founded in 1988, Santa Fe Brewing Company is the oldest brewery in New Mexico and has won numerous awards for its beers. The taproom, located just outside of Santa Fe in a scenic location, offers both indoor and outdoor seating as well as live music and food trucks on weekends.

The Top Spots for Tasting Flights

If you're looking to try a variety of different brews, tasting flights are the way to go. One of the best places for tasting flights in Santa Fe is Rowley Farmhouse Ales. This cozy taproom specializes in farmhouse-style ales, which are brewed using traditional European techniques. The tasting flight options at Rowley Farmhouse Ales change frequently, so there's always something new to try.Another great spot for tasting flights is Duel Brewing, which features a wide range of Belgian-style beers. The taproom has a sleek, modern design and offers indoor and outdoor seating. If you're feeling adventurous, try the flight of fancy, which includes a selection of five different beers chosen by the bartender.

Santa Fe's Unique Brews and Local Flavors

One of the things that sets Santa Fe's breweries apart from others around the country is their use of local ingredients and flavors. At Blue Corn Brewery, for example, many of the beers are made with blue corn, which is a staple of New Mexican cuisine. The brewery also incorporates other local ingredients such as green chile and piñon nuts into some of its brews.At Santa Fe Brewing Company, you'll find a variety of beers that incorporate flavors from the Southwest. The Happy Camper IPA, for example, is made with hops grown in New Mexico. The Adobe Igloo, a winter seasonal brew, is made with cocoa nibs and vanilla beans.

Where to Find the Best Happy Hour Deals

If you're looking for a good deal on drinks and food, there are several breweries in Santa Fe that offer happy hour specials. One of the best deals can be found at Blue Corn Brewery, which offers half-priced pints and appetizers from 4-6pm every weekday. Over at Second Street Brewery, you can enjoy $1 off pints and $2 off growler fills from 4-6pm Monday through Friday.

Family-Friendly Breweries for All Ages

While some breweries may not be suitable for kids, there are several family-friendly options in Santa Fe. At Rowley Farmhouse Ales, for example, dogs and kids are welcome on the outdoor patio. The brewery also offers a selection of non-alcoholic beverages for those who don't drink.Another great spot for families is Santa Fe Brewing Company's taproom, which has a large outdoor area with games and activities for kids. The brewery also hosts regular events such as trivia nights and live music performances.

The Best Patios and Outdoor Seating

With its beautiful weather year-round, Santa Fe is the perfect place to enjoy a cold beer outdoors. Second Street Brewery's original location in the Railyard features a spacious outdoor patio with plenty of seating and shade. Blue Corn Brewery's patio is also a popular spot, with a cozy fire pit and views of the surrounding mountains.At La Cumbre Brewing Company, you can enjoy your beer on a rooftop patio with stunning views of the city. The taproom also features indoor seating with an industrial-chic design.

Taprooms with Live Music and Entertainment

If you're looking for more than just great beer, there are several breweries in Santa Fe that host live music and other entertainment. Second Street Brewery's Rufina Taproom features live music on weekends, as well as regular comedy nights and trivia events. At Duel Brewing, you can catch live music performances most weekends.

Brewery Tours and Educational Experiences

If you're interested in learning more about the brewing process, several breweries in Santa Fe offer tours and educational experiences. Santa Fe Brewing Company offers free tours of its brewing facilities on Saturdays, as well as a variety of classes on topics such as beer and cheese pairing.At Blue Corn Brewery, you can take a brewery bootcamp class, which includes a tour of the facility, a beer tasting, and a lesson on brewing techniques. The brewery also hosts regular meet the brewer events where you can chat with the brewers and learn more about their craft.

Favorite Local Brews and Why We Love Them

With so many great breweries in Santa Fe, it can be hard to choose just one favorite beer. However, some of the most popular brews in the area include Second Street Brewery's Rod's Best Bitter, which is a smooth and flavorful English-style ale, and Santa Fe Brewing Company's Happy Camper IPA, which has a citrusy and hoppy flavor.At Blue Corn Brewery, the Gold Medal Stout is a perennial favorite thanks to its rich, chocolaty flavor and smooth finish. And at La Cumbre Brewing Company, the Elevated IPA is a must-try for hop lovers, with its bold, bitter flavor and tropical fruit notes.In conclusion, Santa Fe's brewing scene is a must-visit for any craft beer lover. With a long history of brewing and a focus on local ingredients and flavors, the city's breweries offer a unique and flavorful experience. Whether you're looking for happy hour deals, family-friendly options, or taprooms with live music, there is something for everyone in Santa Fe's brewing scene.

Best Breweries in Santa Fe: A Beer Lover's Perspective

The Pros and Cons of the Best Breweries in Santa Fe

If you're a beer lover visiting Santa Fe, you'll be happy to know that the city has plenty of great breweries to choose from. Each brewery has its own unique character, beer selection, and atmosphere, making it hard to choose which one to visit first. Here are some pros and cons of the best breweries in Santa Fe:

1. Second Street Brewery

Pros: Great beer selection, tasty pub food, live music, and outdoor seating.
Cons: Can get crowded on weekends, parking can be tricky.

2. Santa Fe Brewing Company

Pros: Large beer selection, food truck options, and spacious taproom with outdoor seating.
Cons: Can be noisy, not as cozy as other breweries.

3. Rowley Farmhouse Ales

Pros: Unique beer selection, delicious food menu, cozy atmosphere, and outdoor patio.
Cons: Can be expensive, limited parking options.

4. Blue Corn Brewery

Pros: Great beer selection, tasty New Mexican cuisine, and convenient location in the heart of downtown Santa Fe.
Cons: Can be noisy and busy, limited outdoor seating.

Brewery Comparison Table

Brewery	Beer Selection	Food Options	Atmosphere	Outdoor Seating	Location
Second Street Brewery	Great	Tasty pub food	Lively	Yes	Downtown Santa Fe
Santa Fe Brewing Company	Large	Food truck options	Spacious	Yes	Eldorado, NM
Rowley Farmhouse Ales	Unique	Delicious menu	Cozy	Yes	Agua Fria Village, Santa Fe
Blue Corn Brewery	Great	New Mexican cuisine	Bustling	No	Downtown Santa Fe

Overall, each brewery in Santa Fe has its own strengths and weaknesses. Depending on what you're looking for in a brewery experience, you'll be sure to find a great spot to enjoy some tasty brews in this charming New Mexican city.

The Best Breweries in Santa Fe

Thank you for taking the time to read about the best breweries in Santa Fe. We hope that this article has helped you discover some new and exciting places to enjoy a cold beer and soak up the unique atmosphere of this historic city.

We have covered a range of breweries in this article, from the well-established favorites to some lesser-known gems. Each one has its own distinct character and offers something different for visitors to enjoy.

If you are looking for a brewery with a great selection of craft beers and a lively atmosphere, then we recommend checking out Second Street Brewery. This popular spot is known for its friendly staff, delicious food, and of course, its fantastic beer. With two locations in Santa Fe, there's no excuse not to visit!

For those who prefer a more laid-back vibe, we suggest heading over to Santa Fe Brewing Company. This brewery prides itself on using local ingredients to create unique and flavorful beers that reflect the spirit of New Mexico. You can sit back and relax on the patio while enjoying a cold beer and taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

If you're in the mood for something a little bit different, then make sure to stop by Tumbleroot Brewery and Distillery. This innovative brewery creates both beer and spirits, meaning there's something for everyone here. You can take a tour of the distillery and learn about the process of creating their award-winning spirits, or simply enjoy a cold beer in the taproom.

Another great option for beer lovers is Rowley Farmhouse Ales. This brewery specializes in Belgian-style beers and has won numerous awards for its unique and complex brews. The taproom is cozy and inviting, with plenty of seating options and a friendly staff who are always happy to chat about their beers.

If you're looking for a brewery that's a little bit off the beaten track, then make sure to check out Duel Brewing. This brewery is located in an old horse stable and has a distinctly European feel to it. The beers here are brewed in the Belgian tradition and are full of complex flavors and aromas.

One of the newest additions to Santa Fe's brewery scene is Blue Corn Brewery. This brewery offers a wide variety of beers, from traditional ales to more experimental brews. The taproom is spacious and modern, with plenty of seating options and a friendly staff who are always happy to make recommendations.

If you want to experience a truly unique brewery, then make sure to visit Chili Line Brewing Co. This brewery specializes in using chilies in their beers, creating a spicy and flavorful brew that is unlike anything else you've ever tasted. The taproom is cozy and welcoming, with plenty of space to sit and enjoy a cold beer.

We hope that this article has given you a taste of the incredible brewery scene in Santa Fe. Whether you're a local or just passing through, there's something here for everyone to enjoy. So grab a cold beer, sit back, and soak up the unique atmosphere of this historic city!

Thank you for reading, and we hope to see you at one of these fantastic breweries soon!