5 Breweries to Visit - Connecticut

I could not agree more on NEBCO. It's small but it's EVERYTHING craft beer should be. Great guys making great beer. You stand in the "tasting room" (it's not more than a small bar area surrounding by stacks of cans), look out to the warehouse floor at the guys hard at work, and drink the most amazing beer in the state. Plus it's just about always Rob or Matt pouring, and they are great at talking beer and answering your questions, especially on what they will be brewing. I can't say enough about how much I enjoy it every time I go.

I have been to Relic as well. It's small, nice little tasting room. I enjoy their beer but don't find their selection to be nearly as good as what I get at NEBCO. Still, Mark is usually there and will engage you in conversation about the beers. So I would put it as a stop since you can talk to the brewer directly.

I haven't been to Two Roads yet, but their tasting area seems very nice. Good sized bar, their full selection on draft. So I would say it should be a stop. Beers are good, but not great. I did really enjoy Henry's Farm and think Road2Ruin is solid but unspectacular. Still for ambiance it's probably a good place to hit.

I would say Cambridge House in Granby would also be good. They make some pretty darn good beers. Nice place. Serve food which is always a plus, so that's another good spot.

And after all that. I would simply return to NEBCO and remind yourself of what great craft beer is.

 

NEBCO rules no doubt, but if you're into seeing what 7-8 millions dollar (I'm guessing) and a team of Germans basically living there for a few months gets you, the Two Roads brewing setup is pretty impressive to see up close.

 

Woodbridge Brewing does rule! Two roads seems gimmicky to me. Not sure I would put them in the top 5 unless by default. I love the vibe at Relic, the guys there were almost as nice at the guys at Woodbridge. I love City Steam for the comedy club, pool tables, food and diet soda fountain drinks.....the beer doesn't make the list. Burnsides...no. Hooker....no. but that is me to each their own. Cheers!