Best 8 Breweries in Maine: A Guide to the Top Craft Beer Destinations

ByAnthony Smith Last Updated:

Maine is a state that is known for its craft beer scene. The state is home to many breweries that offer unique and delicious beers. Whether you are a local or a tourist, visiting the best breweries in Maine is a must-do activity.

One of the best places to experience Maine’s craft beer is in Portland. Portland is home to many breweries that offer a wide variety of beers. From IPAs to stouts, there is something for everyone in Portland’s breweries. Some of the best breweries in Portland include Allagash Brewing Company, Bissell Brothers, and Rising Tide Brewing Company. These breweries are known for their award-winning beers and unique tasting rooms.

Portland: The Hub of Maine Breweries

Portland, Maine has become a hub for the beer industry in the state. With a population of just over 66,000, Portland boasts an impressive number of breweries per capita. The city has been named one of the top beer cities in the world, and for good reason.

Allagash Brewing Company

Allagash Brewing Company is one of the most well-known breweries in Portland. Founded in 1995, Allagash specializes in Belgian-style beers. They offer a wide variety of brews, including their popular Allagash White, which is a Belgian-style wheat beer. The brewery also has a tasting room that is open to the public.

Website: http://www.allagash.com/visit

Address: 50 Industrial Way, Portland, ME 04103, United States

Bissell Brothers Brewing Company

Bissell Brothers Brewing Company is another popular brewery in Portland. Founded in 2013, Bissell Brothers is known for their IPAs. Their flagship beer, The Substance, is a New England-style IPA that has gained a cult following. The brewery has two locations, one in Portland and one in Milo, Maine.

Website: http://www.bissellbrothers.com/

Address: 38 Resurgam Pl, Portland, ME 04102, United States

Maine Beer Company

Maine Beer Company is a brewery that is dedicated to sustainability. They use solar power to brew their beer, and they donate 1% of their sales to environmental causes. Maine Beer Company is known for its hoppy beers, including its Lunch IPA. The brewery has a tasting room that is open to the public.

Website: http://www.mainebeercompany.com/

Address: 525 US-1, Freeport, ME 04032, United States

Austin Street Brewery

Austin Street Brewery is a small brewery that is located in the East Bayside neighborhood of Portland. They specialize in hoppy beers, and they have a rotating selection of brews. The brewery has a tasting room that is open to the public.

Website: http://www.austinstreetbrewery.com/

Address: 1 Industrial Way UNIT 8, Portland, ME 04103, United States

Rising Tide Brewing Company

Rising Tide Brewing Company is a family-owned brewery that is located in the East Bayside neighborhood of Portland. They offer a wide variety of beers, including their popular Daymark American Pale Ale. The brewery has a tasting room that is open to the public.

Website: http://www.risingtidebrewing.com/

Address: 103 Fox St, Portland, ME 04101, United States

Other Noteworthy Breweries in Maine

Atlantic Brewing Company

The Atlantic Brewing Company is a family-owned brewery located in Bar Harbor. They are known for their quality beer and have won several awards for their creations. Visitors can enjoy a variety of beers in their taproom, which has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The brewery also offers outdoor seating, allowing guests to enjoy their beer while taking in the beautiful scenery.

Website: http://www.atlanticbrewing.com/

Address: 15 Knox Rd, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

Baxter Brewing Company

Baxter Brewing Company is located in Lewiston and is known for producing high-quality beer. The brewery was founded in 2010 and has since become a popular destination for beer lovers. Baxter Brewing Company offers a variety of beers, including their flagship beer, Stowaway IPA. Visitors to the brewery can enjoy a lively atmosphere and outdoor seating.

Website: http://www.baxterbrewing.com/

Address: 130 Mill St, Lewiston, ME 04240, United States

D.L. Geary Brewing

D.L. Geary Brewing is Maine’s first microbrewery and has been producing quality beer since 1986. The brewery is located in Portland and offers a variety of beers, including their popular Geary’s Pale Ale. Visitors can enjoy a cozy atmosphere in the taproom and outdoor seating during the warmer months.

Website: https://www.gearybrewing.com/visit

Address: 38 Evergreen Dr, Portland, ME 04103, United States

While there are many great breweries in Maine, these are just a few of the noteworthy ones that visitors should consider checking out. Each brewery offers a unique atmosphere and high-quality beer that is sure to please any beer lover.

Exploring the Beers of Maine

Tasting Room Experiences

Maine is home to some of the best breweries in the country, and exploring the beers of Maine is a must-do for any beer lover. With nearly every brewery choosing to be a member of the Maine Brewers’ Guild, the state has a comprehensive list of craft breweries, brewpubs, tasting rooms, and more.

One of the best ways to experience the beers of Maine is by visiting the tasting rooms of the breweries. The tasting rooms offer visitors a chance to try different beers and experience the unique flavors of Maine. Visitors can also learn about the brewing process and the history of each brewery.

Many of the breweries in Maine offer tasting room experiences that are unique and memorable. For example, Allagash Brewing Company offers guided tours of their brewery and tasting room, where visitors can try their flagship beer, Allagash White, and other styles. Visitors can also enjoy food from local food trucks and live music.

The Growler Trend

Another trend in Maine’s beer scene is the growler trend. A growler is a reusable container used to transport beer from the brewery to your home. Many breweries in Maine offer growlers for purchase and fill them with their best beers.

The growler trend is a great way to take home some of the best beers in Maine and enjoy them at home. Visitors can also use growlers to try different beers from different breweries and compare them.

When exploring the beers of Maine, visitors can expect to find a wide range of styles, from IPAs to pale ales to blueberry ales and more. Some of the most popular beers in Maine include Substance Ale from Bissell Brothers Brewing, and Flagship Beer from Rising Tide Brewing Company.

Overall, exploring the beers of Maine is a unique and exciting experience that any beer lover should try. With so many breweries and tasting rooms to choose from, visitors can expect to find something they love and make lasting memories.