As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of exploring various neighborhoods in Chicago that are home to some of the best breweries in the city. When it comes to finding a vibrant and diverse beer scene, two neighborhoods that immediately come to mind are West Loop and West Town. These neighboring areas collectively make up the Chicago Brewing District, which has become a hub for both established and up-and-coming breweries.
One of the most iconic breweries in Chicago, and a true city icon, is Goose Island. Located in the heart of West Town, Goose Island has been brewing exceptional beers since 1988. Their portfolio includes a wide range of styles, from classic Belgian-inspired ales to innovative barrel-aged brews. As a beer enthusiast, visiting Goose Island is a must, as they offer guided tours and tastings that provide insight into their brewing process and history.
In recent years, West Loop has also become a hotbed for breweries, with a fresh crop of newcomers joining the scene. One notable addition is On Tour Brewing Company, a brewery inspired by the spirit of travel and exploration. Their taproom offers a rotating selection of beers, ranging from hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts, all brewed on-site. I had the opportunity to visit On Tour Brewing and was impressed by the quality and creativity of their brews.
Another standout brewery in West Loop is Forbidden Root. What sets Forbidden Root apart is their focus on botanical-inspired beers. They infuse their brews with a variety of herbs, spices, and botanicals to create unique and flavorful concoctions. From their refreshing Sublime Ginger to their complex and aromatic Wildflower Pale Ale, their beers offer a truly distinctive tasting experience.
In addition to these individual breweries, the Chicago Brewing District is also home to an innovative concept called the “multi-brewery incubator.” This concept allows multiple breweries to share a space and collaborate on brewing projects. One such incubator in West Town is District Brew Yards. Here, visitors can enjoy beers from three different breweries under one roof: Burnt City Brewing, Around the Bend Beer Co., and Bold Dog Beer Co. It's a fantastic opportunity to taste a wide variety of beers and experience the creativity of multiple brewing teams.
To summarize the abundance of breweries in Chicago, here is a list of some of the notable establishments in West Loop and West Town:
– Goose Island Brewery: A Chicago icon known for their diverse range of beers.
– On Tour Brewing Company: A brewery inspired by travel and exploration, offering a rotating selection of brews.
– Forbidden Root: A brewery specializing in botanical-inspired beers that explore unique flavor profiles.
– District Brew Yards: A multi-brewery incubator housing Burnt City Brewing, Around the Bend Beer Co., and Bold Dog Beer Co.
These are just a few examples of the many incredible breweries you can find in the West Loop and West Town neighborhoods. The Chicago Brewing District truly offers something for every beer lover, from established classics to innovative newcomers. Exploring this vibrant beer scene is a delightful adventure that I highly recommend to anyone visiting or residing in Chicago.