California is a state that loves its beer and spirits, so it’s no surprise that there are plenty of great breweries and distilleries to enjoy around the state. With so many options, it can be overwhelming trying to decide where to go. That’s why we’ve created a guide to some of California’s best breweries and distilleries.
San Francisco
San Francisco is known for its unique neighborhoods and landmarks, but it’s also home to some great breweries and distilleries.
Anchor Brewing Company
Anchor Brewing Company is a San Francisco institution. Founded in 1896, this brewery is one of the oldest in the country. They are best known for their flagship beer, Anchor Steam, which is a unique style of beer that is brewed with a lager yeast at an ale temperature.
Seven Stills
Seven Stills is a San Francisco-based distillery that is known for its innovative spirits. They use craft beer from local breweries in their distillation process to create unique whiskeys, gins, and more.
San Diego
San Diego is another California city that is known for its craft beer scene.
Stone Brewing
Stone Brewing is a powerhouse in the craft beer industry. They are known for their bold, hoppy beers like their flagship IPA, Stone IPA. They also have a great outdoor space for enjoying a pint on a sunny San Diego day.
Ballast Point Brewing
Ballast Point Brewing is another San Diego brewery that has made a name for itself in the craft beer world. They are known for their Sculpin IPA and their unique fruit-infused beers like Grapefruit Sculpin and Pineapple Sculpin.
Sonoma County
Sonoma County is a must-visit destination for wine lovers, but it’s also home to some great breweries and distilleries.
Russian River Brewing Company
Russian River Brewing Company is a must-visit for beer lovers. They are best known for their Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger double IPAs, which are consistently ranked among the best beers in the world.
Sonoma Distilling Company
Sonoma Distilling Company is a family-owned distillery that is known for its handcrafted spirits. They produce a range of whiskies, brandies, and even a grappa made from Sonoma County grapes.
Los Angeles
Los Angeles may not be known for its beer and spirits scene, but there are still some great breweries and distilleries to check out.
Angel City Brewery
Angel City Brewery is a brewery located in the Arts District of downtown Los Angeles. They are known for their unique beers like their Srirachelada beer, which is a spicy, citrusy take on a beer-based bloody mary.
Greenbar Distillery
Greenbar Distillery is a Los Angeles-based distillery that produces a range of organic spirits. They use locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices to create their spirits, which include gin, vodka, and whiskey.
Conclusion
California is home to some of the best breweries and distilleries in the country. Whether you’re a beer lover or a spirits aficionado, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So the next time you’re in California, be sure to check out some of these great breweries and distilleries.