Discover the Best Breweries in Delaware: A Beer Lover’s Guide

ByKarl S

Are you a beer enthusiast looking to explore a vibrant and diverse brewery scene? Delaware is the perfect destination!

With a thriving craft brewing industry, Delaware offers an incredible array of breweries, each with its own unique atmosphere and selection of artisanal brews.

Get ready to embark on a flavor-filled adventure through the First State’s best breweries in Delaware!

Key Takeaways

  • Explore Delaware’s amazing beer scene for unique brews, delicious food pairings & unforgettable experiences!
  • Discover award-winning beers at Crooked Hammock Brewery and Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant.
  • Visit Dogfish Head Craft Brewery or Mispillion River Brewing to tantalize your taste buds with craft beers!

Delaware’s Top Breweries

Delaware is home to some truly outstanding breweries that cater to every taste and preference. With a focus on quality, innovation, and exceptional customer service, these establishments have earned their place among the best breweries in the state.

From beachside escapes to urban hotspots, there’s a Delaware brewery for everyone.

Thus, embark on a journey through the finest breweries in Delaware to experience exceptional craft beers, distinct atmospheres, and memorable encounters.

Crooked Hammock Brewery

Situated by the beach in Lewes, Crooked Hammock Brewery offers a laid-back vibe that transports you straight to a seaside vacation. With popular beers like Hand of Buddha cream ale and Kornheiser Belgian Tripel, you’ll be sipping on paradise in no time.

Enjoy live music and cornhole games in a pet-friendly environment, creating the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon with friends and family.

Since its initial opening in 2015, Crooked Hammock Brewery has expanded to various locations, including Middletown, DE in 2019. Known for their signature brews and creatively designed containers, it has rapidly gained popularity among the locals.

Their exceptional beers and warm ambience are not to be missed!

Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant

Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant is an award-winning establishment known for its high-quality artisan beers and spacious, modern layout.

Founded in 1996, Iron Hill has become the most award-winning brewery east of the Mississippi. With 12 locations in Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey, you’re never far from a delicious beer experience.

Some of the most popular beers at Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant include:

  • Philly Phavorite IPA
  • Pig Iron Porter
  • Pumpkin Ale
  • Vienna Red Lager

Pair your beer with a mouthwatering dish like the Left Coast turkey burger for a truly satisfying experience. With an impressive list of accolades and a commitment to excellence, Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant is a must-visit Delaware brewery.

Revelation Craft Brewing

Revelation Craft Brewing may be small, but it packs a punch with its unique beers like Conan the Juiceman and Mother-in-Law. Using a cold conditioning brewing technique, Revelation produces crisp and smooth beers that delight the senses.

Established in 2016 in West Rehoboth, this microbrewery has been instrumental in putting Sussex County in the brewing spotlight.

With two locations in Delaware, Revelation Craft Brewing offers a cozy atmosphere to enjoy their innovative brews. Don’t miss the chance to visit this promising brewery and taste their one-of-a-kind creations.

Dogfish Head Craft Brewery

Dogfish Head Craft Brewery is a renowned Delaware brewery that recently launched a new $4 million brewpub. Located in Rehoboth Beach, this brewery offers beer tastings, events, and food pairings in a lively and inviting atmosphere.

There’s always something happening at Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, making it a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts.

Some of the main beer varieties available at Dogfish Head Craft Brewery include:

  • 60 Minute IPA
  • 90 Minute Imperial IPA
  • Punkin Ale
  • SeaQuench Ale
  • and many more

Founded in 1995, Dogfish Head Craft Brewery has become a staple in the Delaware beer scene, consistently delivering quality brews and unforgettable experiences.

Mispillion River Brewing

Mispillion River Brewing is a Delaware brewery that caters to all types of beer lovers. With a focus on premium ingredients and exceptional customer service, this brewery offers an extensive selection of beers to suit every palate.

Founded by native Delawarean Eric Williams, Mispillion River Brewing is a locally owned and operated brewery in Milford, Delaware.

Popular beers at Mispillion River Brewing include:

Using the highest quality ingredients and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Mispillion River Brewing is a must-try destination for beer lovers in Delaware.

Beer and Food Pairings to Try

If you’re looking for a Delaware brewery that offers both exceptional beer and delicious food pairings, look no further than Brick Works Brewing and Eats and Big Oyster Brewery.

These two establishments have made a name for themselves with their inventive flavor combinations and carefully curated food and beer pairings that will leave you craving more.

Let’s examine these two Delaware breweries more closely to appreciate the enticing beer and food pairings they offer.

Brick Works Brewing and Eats

Located in Smyrna, Brick Works Brewing and Eats offers:

  • Craft specialties made with local ingredients, including American stouts and pale ales
  • Unique combinations of flavors, such as S’mores, Tiny Brick brown ales, and Sugar Plum sours
  • Expert food and beer pairings

Brick Works Brewing and Eats skillfully pairs their beers with suitable food options to enhance flavors, utilizing locally sourced ingredients. Their menu offers a singular dining experience that complements their impressive craft beers.

Big Oyster Brewery

Big Oyster Brewery in Lewes is another popular Delaware brewery known for its diverse dinner menu, wine selection, and 16 rotating beers on tap.

Operating since 2015, Big Oyster Brewery offers a variety of delicious local craft beers that pair wonderfully with their carefully crafted menu.

Fusing local products to create a unique dining experience, Big Oyster Brewery carefully pairs their beers with the right food to enhance the flavors. Be sure to visit their website for more details on their menu and beer offerings.

Unique Brewery Experiences

Delaware boasts a number of breweries offering one-of-a-kind settings and artisan beverages. From historic locations to beachside escapes, these breweries provide unique experiences that are sure to make your visit unforgettable.

Let’s examine three Delaware breweries that provide a truly unique experience.

Dew Point Brewing Company

Dew Point Brewing Company is a family-run microbrewery located in the historic Garrett Snuff Mill in Yorklyn, Delaware. Offering a relaxed atmosphere and a variety of craft beers, this brewery is a hidden gem that combines history and delicious brews.

The brewery was founded by brothers Fran and John, along with John’s wife Georgiana. Their passion for brewing and commitment to quality shines through in their beers, which include nine exciting sour beers available for tasting.

Visit Dew Point Brewing Company on Dupont Blvd for a one-of-a-kind experience in a beautifully refurbished old factory.

Fordham and Dominion Brewing Company

Located in Dover, Fordham and Dominion Brewing Company is a must-visit Delaware brewery that produces a range of artisanal brews, including:

  • Belgian Tripel
  • Helles Lager
  • Double IPA
  • Amber Ale
  • Stout

Their commitment to quality and variety is evident in their selection of beers, including the classic American Lager.

Whether you’re a fan of lagers, ales, or stouts, Fordham and Dominion Brewing Company has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on their seasonal offerings like Cherry Blossom Lager and Overnight Blues blueberry wheat.

Visit their tasting room and discover the artisan beverages that make this brewery a standout in Delaware.

Thompson Island Brewing

Thompson Island Brewing offers a unique brewery experience with its:

  • Outdoor bar area, featuring games, food, and one-of-a-kind beverages
  • Location near Cape Henlopen State Park
  • Modern spin on retro classics in its interior design, with artwork provided by local designers

Sample unique brews like Glazed and Confused, Afternoon Nap, and Thompson Island IPA, while enjoying the brewery’s beach picnic and bonfire atmosphere.

With its distinctive look and amazing brews, Thompson Island Brewing is a must-visit Delaware brewery that combines fun, flavor, and a fantastic atmosphere.

Up-and-Coming Delaware Breweries

As the Delaware brewery scene continues to grow, there are two rising stars that beer lovers should keep an eye on: Loakal Branch and Autumn Arch. These up-and-coming breweries are gaining popularity for their innovative beers and commitment to quality.

Let’s closely examine these intriguing new entrants to the Delaware brewery scene.

Loakal Branch

Loakal Branch is a new brewery making waves in the rankings with its innovative beers and welcoming atmosphere. Founded by the Burley Oak Brewing Company, this Delaware brewery is quickly becoming a local favorite.

Loakal Branch offers a variety of unique and delicious brews, such as Town And Country, Orange Cran Vanilla D.A.B.S., and Blackberry Rhubarb Pie – D.A.B.S.

Their commitment to innovation and quality sets them apart in the brewing industry, making Loakal Branch a must-try destination for beer enthusiasts.

Autumn Arch

Autumn Arch is another up-and-coming brewery gaining popularity for its unique brews and commitment to quality.

Located in an industrial park in Glasgow, this brewery offers a wide selection of beer styles, including American IPAs, sour beer, and obscure German lagers.

Founded by brothers Jimmy and Dan Vennard, Autumn Arch is dedicated to producing ales, lagers, and sour beers of the highest character. This brewery is quickly making a name for itself in the Delaware beer scene and is definitely worth a visit.

A Weekend Itinerary for Beer Lovers

If you’re looking to explore Delaware’s thriving beer scene, we’ve curated two suggested brewery tours that showcase the best the state has to offer. From Wilmington’s bustling brewery scene to the charming towns and villages of Delaware’s Quaint Villages, these itineraries are perfect for a weekend of beer tasting and exploration.

Wilmington Breweries Tour

The Wilmington Breweries Tour is a curated itinerary featuring the best breweries in Wilmington, perfect for a day of beer tasting and exploration. Some of the top breweries in Wilmington include:

  • Bellefonte Brewing
  • Wilmington Brew Works
  • Stitch House Brewery
  • Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant

With a variety of beer styles and unique atmospheres, these Wilmington breweries offer a fantastic opportunity to sample the city’s finest brews. Seize the opportunity to partake in this thrilling Wilmington brewery tour.

Delaware’s Quaint Villages

For a more leisurely weekend getaway, consider Delaware’s Quaint Villages itinerary. This tour takes you through charming towns and villages, stopping at local breweries along the way.

Discover unique beer styles like Blue Earl Brewing’s Honeysuckle Rose, Rubber Soul’s Urban Style Honey Ale, and Revelation Brewing Co.’s Smoked Oyster Stout.

Regardless of whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or merely interested in exploring Delaware’s lively brewery scene, these itineraries offer an ideal weekend getaway.

Here’s to a weekend brimming with excellent beer, delectable food, and memorable moments!

Summary

In conclusion, Delaware’s brewery scene offers a diverse and exciting range of experiences for beer lovers.

From top-rated breweries and unique beer and food pairings to one-of-a-kind settings and up-and-coming stars, there’s something for everyone in the First State.

So, why not plan a weekend getaway or brewery tour and experience the amazing craft beers and unforgettable atmospheres that Delaware’s breweries have to offer? Cheers!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Delaware brewery ranked?

Delaware’s Dewey Beer Co. has earned the highest ranking of 4.02 (out of 5), with Milton’s Dogfish Head Craft Brewery in second and Wilmington Brew Works and Volunteer Brewing Co. in Middletown tying for third place!

What Delaware brewery is closing?

Fordham and Dominion Brewing is sadly closing in Delaware this weekend after a successful 20 years. The brewery’s final day will be Saturday, Oct 28th, officially ending the era of one of Delaware’s oldest and largest craft breweries.

Why is Blue Earl Brewing closing?

Sadly, due to the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on business and an already crowded market, Blue Earl Brewing will close its doors this Saturday.

What 3 states have the most craft breweries?

Excitingly, California, Colorado, and New York are leading the craft brewing trend, with over 500 craft breweries each!

What is the most award-winning brewery east of the Mississippi?

Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant is the most award-winning brewery east of the Mississippi, having won over 240 awards since 1997.