Seven underrated breweries you need to visit this year

This may be the first instance in a long while where we haven’t put out a “best of” list for the previous year. Instead, we’re focusing on 2020 and all the great beer to be had going forward.

So, as we plan out our vacations and trips, we took a look at breweries across Colorado that maybe weren’t getting the kind of love that big name breweries get. With over 300 breweries in Colorado, it can be hard to stand out, and our hope is that this article will help push these establishments to the top of your list when you’re in the area. Many are situated in towns where another brewery gets most of the glory and the headlines, while others are a little off the beaten path.

You’ll notice we didn’t include any Colorado Springs breweries in this list…mainly because we expect you to already know and enjoy those breweries. This is a chance for you to get outside of our town and experience something new!

Carver Brewing Company | Durango

Touted as the second oldest brewery in Colorado (a close second to Wynkoop), Carver Brewing should definitely be on your list if you’re headed to the Southwest portion of our state. Plus, they have a killer kitchen and bakery, so you can soak up the suds while you’re at it. Definitely check out their breakfast, but be ready to wait, as it’s a popular spot with tourists and locals alike.

Get there: 1022 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301

don’t miss: Lightner Creek Lager or Big Bike Double IPA

Thirsty Monk | Denver

Even though it has locations in Asheville and Portland, the Thirsty Monk is often forgotten in Denver, mainly due to the sheer quantity of breweries popping up. Just recently, they launched The Woodshed, a barrel cellar in Uptown that has some intriguing new sour offerings. Head Brewer Brian Grace using his past experience at Crooked Stave and Jolly Pumpkin, is really putting out some awesome beers.

get there: 1604 E 17th Ave, Denver, CO 80218

don’t miss: Hazy monk hazy IPA or Abbey blonde

Florence Brewing Company | Florence

Florence may be more widely known for its penitentiary, but Hans and his team at Florence Brewing have been providing the area with outstanding beers ever since opening up in 2016. Many of their brews are influenced by German staples, but their barrel-aging is taking off and should not be missed. Situated in an historic century-old building, Florence brewing is well worth the quick trip down from the Springs.

Get there: 200 S. Pikes Peak Ave., Florence, CO 81226

don’t miss: Heidi’s Dark Secret Dunkelweizen or Whiskey Business BBA Imperial Stout

Wiley Roots Brewing | Greeley

Situated only a stones throw from that other W brewery in Greeley, Wiley Roots brews beer much like an artist paints a picture, it comes from the heart. While they may be well known for their Slush series and other pastry-themed beers, it’s their standard offerings that earn Wiley a place in our Underrated group. Beers like Wiley IPA or Super 77 won’t ever get the fanboys sweating, but they’ll taste incredible especially if you’re in town and there’s a line at the other place.

get there: 625 3rd St unit d, Greeley, CO 80631

don’t miss: Funk Yo Couch Farmhouse Mixed Culture Saison or Wiley IPA

Jessup Farm Barrel House | Fort Collins

A lot of breweries up in Fort Collins are keen to aging their beer on wood, but one spot doesn’t get near enough attention as we would expect. Jessup Farm Barrel House has been pumping out barrel-aged delicacies for a few years now, and every time we visit, we find something new to enjoy.

get there: 1921 Jessup Dr, Fort Collins, Colorado 80525

don’t miss: NSFW Whiskey BA Red Ale with Coffee or Train Delay Pale Ale

Avalanche Brewing Company | Silverton

If you find yourself in the Southwest part of the state and are looking for a brewery with jaw-dropping views, look no further than Avalanche Brewing in Silverton. They’ve recently moved to a new location right in the heart of Silverton and there’s no better place to stop for a brew and a bite to eat after exploring the mountains and rivers. If you do make it in, say hi to Austin for us.

get there: 1151 Greene St #377, Silverton, CO 81433

don’t miss: Sultan IPA or The Bonnie Bell Vienna lager

The Empourium Brewing Company | Denver

The Empourium, if you didn’t know already, is owned by former Rogue and Rockyard Brewing employees and boasts a pretty killer lineup of beers. Despite being less than a year old, they’ve already become one of our favorites when we make the trek up I-25. One thing you’ll notice right away is that their menu has more sessionable beers than it does big beers, and that’s especially great when you’re driving around to multiple spots on a jaunt up to the big city.

get there: 4385 W. 42nd Ave, Denver, CO 80212

don’t miss: Power Player German Pilsner or You’ve Got Red On You Raspberry and Mint Kettle Sour

Cover photo courtesy Carver Brewing Facebook.